US
Amazon introduces a no-return refund solution for FBA sellers
Amazon has launched a new “no-return refund solution” for FBA sellers in the U.S., allowing them to offer refunds without requiring product returns. Sellers can opt in based on their business needs, though this option is initially disabled by default. Restrictions apply, including limits on hazardous items and products over $75. Amazon aims to reduce logistics costs and simplify returns, while improving customer experience and loyalty. The solution is part of Amazon’s recent updates to its logistics policies, including changes to storage fees.
Amazon and Walmart dominate the future of U.S. retail
According to a Forrester report, Amazon and Walmart will hold a quarter of the U.S. retail market and two-thirds of online retail by 2029. Their combined retail sales are expected to reach $1.5 trillion, with online sales hitting $1.1 trillion. Click-and-collect sales are predicted to grow, while online grocery sales and non-durable goods will see significant growth. By 2029, online penetration in various product categories like apparel and pet supplies will exceed 50%.
Target expands supply chain with new sorting center
Target has opened its 11th sorting center in Detroit, Michigan, to meet increasing demand for second-day deliveries. This facility is part of Target’s “store as hub” strategy, streamlining online order fulfillment and delivery. The sorting center can process orders from 30 to 40 stores and deliver 90% of them by the second day. Target plans to expand its logistics network to 15 facilities by 2026, investing billions in improving delivery capabilities.
Oracle and AWS partner for cloud database services
Oracle and Amazon Web Services (AWS) have joined forces to launch Oracle Database@AWS, allowing businesses to access Oracle’s cloud-based database services within AWS. This partnership streamlines cloud migration for enterprises, providing improved agility, flexibility, and security. The collaboration also enables businesses to connect Oracle databases with AWS’s advanced AI and ML services. The service is set to expand globally by 2025, benefiting industries like finance, healthcare, and telecommunications.
FTC files antitrust lawsuit against Amazon
The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and 17 states have filed a lawsuit accusing Amazon of monopolistic practices and anti-competitive behavior. The lawsuit alleges that Amazon suppresses competition by penalizing sellers who offer lower prices on other platforms. It also accuses the company of prioritizing its own products in search results and charging excessive fees to sellers. Amazon denies the claims, arguing that the lawsuit could reduce product variety and slow delivery times, counteracting the goals of antitrust laws.
Roblox and Shopify team up for in-game sales
Roblox has partnered with Shopify to allow brands and retailers to sell physical goods directly within its immersive gaming platform. Shopify will provide checkout services for in-game purchases, with a larger rollout planned for 2025. This collaboration opens new opportunities for developers, creators, and brands to engage with Roblox’s massive user base, particularly Generation Z and Alpha consumers. The integration aligns with a growing trend of blending gaming and e-commerce experiences.
Globe
Temu surpasses eBay in global traffic
\In just two years, Temu has become the second most visited e-commerce site globally, trailing only behind Amazon. With nearly 700 million monthly visits, Temu’s rapid growth is fueled by international expansion and aggressive advertising. While not yet the second-largest online retailer, Temu is focusing on becoming a major player in the U.S. and Europe, with plans to hit $60 billion in sales this year. The platform has shifted from ultra-low prices to a more balanced pricing strategy, with 20% of U.S. sales now fulfilled through local warehouses.
Amazon invests $10.4 billion in new UK data centers
AWS will invest 80 billion GBP in the UK over the following 5 years to build and operate new data centers. These centers will support growing cloud services demand, contributing 14 billion GBP to the UK’s GDP by 2028. AWS also plans to create over 14,000 jobs through this expansion. This investment reflects AWS’s confidence in the future of cloud infrastructure and its long-term commitment to the UK market.
Amazon expands railway logistics in India
Amazon India has signed a memorandum of understanding with Indian Railways to enhance its railway logistics network. This collaboration aims to meet growing e-commerce demand and expand Amazon’s fast delivery options across India. By 2024, Amazon will operate over 120 trains on 130 routes, covering 91 cities. The partnership allows Amazon to offer one- and two-day deliveries in more regions, particularly ahead of major shopping seasons.
Jewelry e-commerce booms, driven by trust and AR technology
Global online jewelry sales have reached $250 billion in 2023, with an annual growth rate of 8%. Augmented reality (AR) technologies, such as virtual try-on tools, have enhanced customer confidence and engagement, leading to increased sales and lower return rates. Millennials are particularly keen on buying jewelry online, with 62% preferring it over physical stores. Brands are leveraging high-resolution images, personalized consultations, and seamless checkout processes to build trust and improve user experience.
DHL report highlights e-commerce trends in Asia-Pacific
DHL’s 2024 online shopper trends report reveals the rising influence of social commerce and sustainability in Asia-Pacific. Over 90% of shoppers in markets like Thailand and India purchase through social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Consumers in the region also prioritize sustainability, with many demanding transparency on carbon emissions from logistics services. The report predicts the Asia-Pacific e-commerce market will surpass $3 trillion by 2028.
Statista report highlights top online marketplaces
A recent Statista report shows that marketplaces like Mercado, eBay, and Depop captured 35% of global online shopping orders in the past year. Denmark leads in online shopping expenditure per capita, while the U.S. ranks second. The report emphasizes the growing popularity of direct-to-consumer brands like Nike and Adidas, as well as the rise
Alibaba Cloud faces outage after Singapore data center fire
A fire at an Alibaba Cloud data center in Singapore caused major disruptions, affecting platforms like Lazada and TikTok. Many users experienced issues with order management, chatbots, and video uploads. Lazada extended shipping timelines, while TikTok faced difficulties in video streaming and order processing. Alibaba Cloud reported continued recovery efforts but warned of further delays due to risks of electrical short circuits in the water-damaged data center.
Amazon expands drone delivery service in the UK
Amazon has been selected by the UK Civil Aviation Authority to test beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) drone flights, marking a significant step forward in drone delivery services. This trial will allow Amazon to explore delivering small parcels to customers in under an hour. Currently operating drone deliveries in parts of the U.S., Amazon plans to introduce its Prime Air service in the UK by the end of the year, enhancing logistics efficiency for consumers. of social media-influenced shopping, particularly in countries like Denmark and the U.S.
AI
Apple unveils iPhone 16 with AI-driven features
Apple introduced the iPhone 16, designed to integrate its new personal intelligence system, Apple Intelligence. This AI-powered system will streamline tasks, enhance user experience across apps, and ensure privacy through advanced on-device and server-based processing. Key features include AI writing tools, photo and video editing functions, and enhanced Siri capabilities. The system will launch with iOS 18.1, offering users more efficient ways to manage everyday tasks while safeguarding data privacy.
OpenAI prepares to launch a new AI model “Strawberry”
OpenAI will launch its new AI model, Strawberry, within two weeks. The model is designed to solve complex math problems and enhance reasoning capabilities. OpenAI’s commercial user base has surpassed one million, and the company is looking to raise billions in new funding, with a projected valuation of over $100 billion. Strawberry is part of OpenAI’s efforts to push the boundaries of AI technology and further improve AI’s ability to process complex information.
Google expands AI virtual try-on for dresses
Google has introduced AI-powered virtual try-on tools for dresses on its shopping platform, allowing consumers to see how different styles fit on a variety of body types. This follows the successful launch of a similar tool for tops, which significantly boosted engagement and brand visibility. The new feature uses advanced AI to overcome challenges specific to dress designs, ensuring that key body characteristics are preserved during virtual try-ons. This innovation aims to enhance the online shopping experience and provide brands with improved product showcase opportunities.
