Data Fuels Retail, E-Commerce Growth: The Week in Retail

Data is playing a crucial role in driving growth and profitability in retail and e-commerce, according to industry experts. Mexican department store Liverpool is looking to increase its stake in Nordstrom, while Amazon continues to expand its Fresh supermarkets in the United States, following their initial launch in 2020.

Discover more this week in retail!

Data Spurs Growth in Latin America’s Retail and E-Commerce

At VTEX Connect 2024, experts emphasized that data is driving growth and profitability in Latin America's retail and e-commerce sector, with digital commerce penetration exceeding 30% in some categories. AI and conversational commerce are key technologies helping businesses enhance customer experiences and optimize operations across both online and offline channels. Personalized interactions, supported by data and AI, can significantly boost customer lifetime value and overall sales, while efficient inventory management and real-time engagement are essential for maintaining competitiveness in the region's rapidly expanding market.

Amazon to Open Fresh Supermarkets

Amazon Fresh, initially launched in 2020 as a discount grocery alternative to Whole Foods, is reviving its expansion plans after a period of dormancy caused by economic challenges and internal cost-cutting measures. With recent openings in several US states, Amazon is redesigning stores with new product offerings and enhanced layouts, although some locations remain unoccupied, leading to lawsuits. 

Liverpool Looks to Increase Participation in Nordstrom

The Nordstrom family, in partnership with Mexico's Liverpool, has offered $3.8 billion to take the Nordstrom department store chain private. If successful, the transaction will delist Nordstrom's shares, with the Nordstrom family owning 50.1% and Liverpool 49.9% of the company. The offer includes a premium of 34.8% compared to the stock price, and Liverpool plans to invest at least $1.2 billion, partially through its own resources and external financing.

Almost 40% of Mexican Retailers Suffered SPEI Fraud Attempts: A3Sec

In Mexico, 39% of retailers experienced fraud attempts via the Interbank Electronic Payment System (SPEI), with 34% also facing cyberattacks or data breaches, according to IT consultancy A3Sec. The firm highlighted that cyber threats are evolving rapidly, and the country's financial sector must continually adapt to these risks. Despite the growing digital payment landscape, with e-commerce transactions expected to reach 1.3 trillion pesos by 2025, efforts from public and private sectors are driving progress toward a more secure digital payment environment.

Coppel Users Report Increased Debt After Cyberattack

A recent cybersecurity incident at Coppel has led to numerous customer complaints about unexplained increases in their debts, with one user reporting her debt jumping from 4,000 to 40,000 pesos overnight. Coppel has yet to issue an official statement, raising concerns about data security and transparency. Customers are advised to document their cases, contact the company for clarification, and escalate to authorities if necessary, while Coppel must address the issue promptly to restore trust.