The MERA Blog
News, opinion and perspective on the retail industry
Mary Epner on Arise Xchange: Explains Lackluster Luxury Sales
Mary Epner recently called-into Arise Xchange to explain why there is a drop in some luxury brand sales, while others are tracking well. Is the trend of flashy designer labels over? Take a look… The information contained within this post is the opinion of Mary Epner... read more
Apple Watch Update—Designer Bands Coming
We’ve been bullish on the Apple Watch since its announcement last Fall. Despite intial mixed reviews, we believe that wearables will continue to grow, as an always-on lifestyle will require more streamlined management of information. One of the push-backs we’ve heard... read more
Celebrity Risks as Macy’s Dumps Trump
We’ve talked before about the how controversial issues can put brands at risk, but what we’ve seen over the last few weeks is the dramatic implosion of the Trump retail brand. Donald Trump’s controversial speech as he officially entered the Presidential arena has had... read more
On-Sale! Slow Apparel Sales Prompt Early Markdowns…AGAIN!
We’ve been spying earlier-than-usual markdowns this spring into summer season, from department stores to luxury apparel, leading into the usual holiday sales. And now, as we approach the July 4th weekend, the reductions are even more pronounced (and they were started... read more
Athleisure Trend: CALIA by Carrie Underwood for Dick’s Sporting Goods
Calia by Carrie Underwood for Dick’s Sporting Goods is yoga wear that defines the athleisure trend—bringing yoga inspired looks to the street.
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Mary Epner on AriseTV: Target Botches Lilly Pulitzer Launch
Crashed web sites and long lines means Lilly Pulitzer for Target isn’t the home run management hoped for. Mary Epner guests on AristTV and discusses the fallout.
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#boycottD&G — When Designers Put Their Brands at Risk
The recent flair up between Sir Elton John and designers Dolce & Gabbana highlights the risks designers face when commenting on social issues.
read moreApple Watch Third-Party Accessories: A Retail Opportunity
Hand-crafted with gorgeous materials, first-generation Apple Watch accessories already in the market.
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New Materials Coming to Apple Watch this Fall?
Not even on store shelves and rumors of case material updates are already in play—defining newness and drive customer interest.
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TAG Heuer Joins the Luxury Smart Watch Set
Hot off the presses: Tag Heuer partners with Intel and Google for luxury smart watches. Finally Android users will get a smart watch worth owning.
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Apple Watch—What the Tech Pundits Got Wrong (hint this is going be huge)
Entrenched customer behavior will embrace the Apple Watch as a fashion, style and status symbol, regardless of upgrade cycles.
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Apple to Widen Watch Distribution Through High-End Fashion Channels
Expect Apple Watch distribution to extend to traditional department and specialty stores as Apple becomes a global luxury brand.
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The Soon-to-Be Booming Apple Watch Band Market
New product and licensing opportunities for designer brands as the Apple Watch creates a new accessory category.
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Millennials Flocking to LUSH Handmade Cosmetics
Its the right mix of ingredients: hand-made, socially conscious, affordable and effective that drives traffic both in stores and online.
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Ivivva, Lululemon’s Little Sis, is Growing Up
A growing fan base and product differentiation are driving traffic in stores and online.
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