In this episode we will discuss...

• Grocery e-commerce sales jump nearly 30% in June
• U.S. online grocery sales grew in June, but shoppers demand better digital experiences.
• Ebay is doubling down on its investments in AI-powered customer experience and employee productivity in the second second half of 2025.
• Ulta Beauty is shifting to AI agents following tech modernization, targeting improved customer experiences by 2025.
• Unifying its approach to the technology, Walmart launched a new companywide artificial intelligence framework centered around four “super agents” to support various business touchpoints.
• Seven in 10 luxury shoppers on TikTok have spent more than 1,000 pounds (approximately $1,355 at press time) on a single fashion item, typically after watching peer-led content.
• Google now displays Instagram posts in search results, targeting younger users who increasingly prefer social media over traditional search.
• As retailers face global headwinds going into the holidays, 78% of industry buyers say they have utilized AI-enabled tools to enhance buying activities.
• Over half (56%) of retail organizations have upped their generative AI investments compared to last year.
• OpenAI's rumored ChatGPT checkout system sparks retail startup concerns about pay-to-play bias.
• Kroger’s data arm 84.51° announced Wednesday the unification of its retail media, consumer insights and loyalty marketing services.