Apparel/Department

Timberland has enlisted CloudTags for in-store mobile technology. The mobile service will allow customers to research product information, engage on social networks, and build an online shopping list, among other capabilities.

Dick’s Sporting Goods has partnered with First Insight, a predictive analytics firm, to assist in merchandising, pricing, and cost decisions.

Discount/GM

Build-A-Bear Workshop has partnered with TXT Retail, an enterprise-planning solutions company, to provide enhanced merchandising planning. The retailer has 400 stores globally and also provides ecommerce for its customers.

Target Corporation is also said to be developing its own version of mobile payment services. After Walmart announced the same, its chief rival is in the early stages of testing.

Hardware

Lowe’s is developing a new virtual reality application that will assist customers in visualizing home improvement projects. In October of 2015, the company upgraded its Holoroom technology to provide 3-D views of assigned projects.

Grocery

Casey’s General Stores has launched a new mobile app that focuses on helping its customers place custom foodservice orders. While the company recently enabled online ordering for all of its stores, mobile ordering is new. Customers can place orders for pizza, sandwiches, and other prepared meals through the enhanced mobile application.