Michael Bennett: Unfiltered

As consumers seek comfort in uncertain times, Werther's Original expands beyond classic caramel with a new gingerbread flavor – a strategic play for holiday sales & a broader brand refresh.

As consumers prioritize comfort and adaptability, Cole Haan's Winter 2025 collection doubles down on versatile footwear. Can the iconic brand navigate shifting holiday spending and cement its position in a crowded market?

As the premium chocolate market booms, Ethel M Chocolates blends tradition with innovation, offering unique experiences & indulgent treats for the discerning holiday shopper.

As online learning surges, Lakeshore Learning is doubling down on immersive in-store experiences – and a unique teacher-driven design process – to capture holiday shoppers and reshape the future of educational retail.

America’s turkey leader is partnering with a chef-driven apparel brand to launch ‘Thanksgiving Hosting Pants’ – a playful attempt to ease holiday cooking anxiety and a sign of brands targeting emotional needs.

With at-home fitness booming, brands like FED Fitness are intensifying the Black Friday competition, offering aggressive discounts to capture holiday spending. Is premium equipment becoming more accessible?

The direct sales giant is pioneering a new approach to sexual wellness, blending expert education with real-time shopping. But can live commerce truly disrupt a sensitive industry?

Iconic pattern maker Simplicity is undergoing a revival, shifting to employee ownership and blending heritage designs with digital innovation. Can this bold move re-stitch the brand for a new generation?

In a sea of extended holiday hours, appliance retailer P.C. Richard & Son remains a Thanksgiving Day holdout, prioritizing employees and a 116-year family tradition. Is this a relic of the past, or a glimpse into retail’s future?

Yamaha's holiday push blends financial incentives with a long-term investment in music education, navigating economic uncertainty and a competitive market. Can the strategy hit the right note with consumers?

As online shopping dominates, a surprising trend emerges: consumers crave in-person experiences, the feel of a catalog, and a shift away from the Black Friday frenzy. Is retail making a comeback?

As holiday commercialism swells, one independent artist is attempting to reclaim Thanksgiving – not as a single day, but a month-long ‘Season of Givings.’ We explore if this grassroots movement can gain traction.

As consumers start holiday shopping earlier, Target is doubling down on experiential retail, community giving, and aggressive deals to capture market share. Is this the future of brick-and-mortar?

New data reveals SMBs are doubling down on social media & customer relationships to navigate inflation & supply chain challenges this holiday season. Is it enough to compete with big retail?

Urban Outfitters’ holiday strategy isn't just about selling clothes. It's a comprehensive play for Gen Z’s loyalty, blending digital wishlists, social responsibility, and a push to build a community around the brand.

KitchenAid’s ‘Room to Host’ isn't just a product launch—it’s a calculated bet on the power of shared experiences. We unpack the strategy behind the immersive pop-up and explore if this is the future of retail.

A new partnership aims to fund critical research, blending holiday tradition with a vital cause. We delve into the strategy behind the sweet support and the funding gaps it addresses.

Facing economic headwinds, Denny's is offering a daily 'Kids Eat Free' deal alongside a Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer promotion. Is this a smart move to capture family diners, or a risky gamble?

As autumn arrives, consumers are seeking new flavors beyond the usual suspects. California grapes are stepping into the spotlight, offering a versatile and healthy twist on seasonal entertaining.

Facing fierce competition, P.F. Chang’s is betting on a renewed focus on connection and culinary tradition with its 'Light the Fire™' platform and holiday menu. But can experiential dining truly cut through the noise?