Brand Innovation Archives - WSL Strategic Retail

It’s More Than Holidays… It’s How Shoppers Celebrate Life

Seasonal isn’t just the big holidays anymore. Today’s shoppers crave reasons to celebrate, large and small—whether it’s a cultural tradition, a school milestone, or just a fun moment in the middle of the week. Retailers who step up with timely and thoughtful support can transform these occasions into deeper connections and stronger loyalty. In our ... Read more

Turning Stores Into Neighborhood Destinations

Localization is more than just a personalized welcome and goodbye. Today’s shoppers expect stores that reflect their neighborhoods, but also their culture and passions. When retailers embrace local, they create destinations that feel personal and irreplaceable. The payoff? Shoppers see the brand as a trusted community partner rather than just another chain. In our August ... Read more

Wellness, The Shopper’s Way

Wellness isn’t a category — it’s a culture. Today’s shoppers define it on their own terms, blending mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing into one lifelong pursuit. In this issue, we explore how brands and retailers are rising to the occasion — making wellness easier to understand, shop, and trust. From sleep to skin, supplements to ... Read more

Beauty Is Breaking Out!

Beauty isn’t confined to the beauty aisle anymore. Today’s shoppers are discovering skincare, fragrance, and self-care everywhere — and that’s by design. Smart retailers are weaving beauty into lifestyle, making it easier (and more fun) to explore & discover new. In our June edition of the Retail Safari® Newsletter, we explored how beauty is showing ... Read more

Make Every Display Work Harder – For You and Your Shoppers

What if the secret to better retail isn’t bigger stores or flashy tech — but simply making it easier for shoppers to get what they need, faster? In our May edition of the Retail Safari® Newsletter, we explore groundbreaking innovations across categories, including: One-Stop Missions Made Easy: With Nordstrom and Whole Foods Displays Built Around ... Read more

What Everyday Retailers Can Learn from Flagships

Even in a world of endless online shopping options, brands are doubling down on flagships — and for good reason. In our April edition of the Retail Safari® Newsletter, we explore groundbreaking innovations across categories, including: Charlotte Tilbury's confidence-boosting voice, clear signage, Skin Spa, and event spaces. Lululemon's connection hub, new collections, the biggest "pant ... Read more

Convenience Matters

Shoppers today expect ease at every step — from discovery to purchase and beyond. This month, we’re spotlighting companies that are removing friction and making the shopping journey more seamless than ever. In our March edition of the Retail Safari® Newsletter, we explore groundbreaking innovations across categories, including: Personalized Pricing Tools: Giving customers more control ... Read more

AI’s Game-Changing Role in Health & Wellness

AI is revolutionizing Health & Wellness, redefining how shoppers shop, engage, and care for themselves. In our February edition of the Retail Safari® Newsletter, we spotlight the most cutting-edge AI-driven innovations shaping the future of wellness, including: A healthy, fast-casual restaurant leveraging AI for personalized nutrition. An app dedicated to women’s health education, with a ... Read more

What’s Fueling 2025?

This SPECIAL EDITION Retail Safari® features the best retail highlights from 2024. Consider these innovations as you plan 2025 for easier shopping and happiness, as well as new ways to present savings. We include a special section on Hispanic shoppers because of their influence as the “new American family.” This edition features the following themes: ... Read more