The Retail Focus Podcast

We begin by connecting the dots surrounding the speculation regarding a possible Albertsons-Whole Foods deal, and assessing whether Kroger have their eyes on Whole Foods instead. With earnings season kicking off, we cover three reports—O’Reilly’s Auto, 99¢ Only Stores, and Supervalu—and discuss successes and challenges for each.

Investors and analysts balk somewhat at GNC’s slower-than-anticipated turnaround and lackluster e-commerce sales—we take a closer look at the struggles “One New GNC” will need to overcome. Later, we discuss Target’s new partnership with Accompany, Bass Pro/Cabela’s acquisition news, Kate Spade’s continued look for a buyer, and a U.S.-based footwear company that is exploding internationally.

Although the headlines dwell on reduced sales for Toys “R” Us, we find ways in which the retailer appears positioned for continued organizational improvement. We also discuss merger and acquisition news from the beauty and grocery sectors, and a disappointing first quarter for Tractor Supply. Our interview guest (ThatOneAndrew from Around the Gaming Block) joins us to discuss gaming retail dynamics, and why the Nintendo Switch may not be enough to save GameStop’s sales numbers.

We begin with big news out of the convenience store space, as 7-Eleven’s parent company reaches an agreement to purchase over 1,100 retail locations from Sunoco. Meanwhile, Walmart follows through on more layoffs—this time in information systems—and Costco’s retail sales continue an upward trend.  We also discuss Rue21’s possible bankruptcy and Fanatics’ latest acquisition.