Campaign corner
Fill it up. Pot Noodle's latest campaign, "Nothing Fills a Hole Like Pot Noodle," presents Pot Noodle as the perfect solution for satisfying one's appetite. The campaign features various images of holes, such as a pocket on a pool table, a birdhouse, and a washing machine drum, that have been filled with Pot Noodle to highlight its ability to satisfy hunger. Weird, but it works, right?
Magic recipe. What is the recipe for magic? Adding a supermodel influencer and a brand like Coca-Cola and creating a commercial. Gigi Hadid is creating new traditions by hosting a pasta-making party for her friends. The group enjoys laughter and fun as they mix, roll, and cut the dough. After completing the pasta, they sit around the table and relish their meal while sipping on ice-cold Coca-Cola. Hadid believes that this gathering is the perfect recipe for a magical experience.
Tech elevating retail
eCommerce drop. According to a new report, the number of e-commerce deals and their overall value declined in 2022. This could be due to factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the rise of alternative financing options, and increased competition. The report suggests that the industry may experience consolidation as smaller players struggle to compete with larger ones. However, there are also opportunities for growth and investment in areas such as direct-to-consumer brands and emerging technologies.
Walmart’s app. Walmart has revamped its website and app to resemble social media platforms, with a focus on user-generated content and personalization. The new design includes a "My Walmart" section where customers can create and share shopping lists, save items for later, and view their order history. The platform also features a feed of curated content and product recommendations based on the customer's browsing and purchase history. The move is aimed at increasing engagement and loyalty among customers and could potentially drive sales growth for the retail giant.
Expert opinion
Lack of Innovation. Is a lack of product innovation at retail a short-term hurdle or a systemic problem? What advice would you have around maintaining inventory disciplines amid macroeconomic concerns versus the risks of playing it too safe? These were the questions that various retail experts answered in one of RetailWire’s discussions. This is what Bob Phibbs mentioned:
Purpose-marketing. In one of Retail Wire’s discussions, experts answered the following questions: Has purpose-based marketing become less relevant amid macroeconomic pressures? What fresh approaches may be required to break through? Here’s what Gary Sankary commented:
Limited consumer choices and Metaverse Fashion Week
Anti-innovation?Italy is proposing to ban the sale and marketing of lab-grown meat, cheese, and fish. The country's agriculture minister argues that these products do not have the same cultural and traditional value as traditional animal-based products. The proposal has sparked controversy, with some arguing that it stifles innovation and prevents consumers from having access to more sustainable and ethical food options. The ban is not yet finalized and may face opposition from the European Union, which is exploring the regulation of alternative proteins.
Metaverse Fashion Week. The recent Metaverse Fashion Week showcased the intersection of fashion and technology, with traditional and digital brands participating in the event. Digital brands such as The Fabricant and RTFKT Studios showcased their virtual clothing collections, while traditional brands like Calvin Klein and Puma collaborated with digital artists to create virtual experiences. The event also featured panel discussions on the future of fashion and the role of the metaverse in the industry.
