Inflation for pet food and services was over 10% in April, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. But the category has won a reputation of being somewhat recession-proof, thanks to its necessity for pet owners. “People will be spending more on the pets that they have already, despite the fact that it’s been a relatively inflation-wary populous,” said our analyst Jeremy Goldman on a recent episode of our “Behind the Numbers: Reimagining Retail” podcast.

Nike is once again selling wholesale to DSW and Macy’s: Renewing those relationships will help it reach the sizable segment of consumers who aren’t willing to seek out its products.

Consumer packaged goods (CPG) brands have attempted to break into D2C ecommerce in recent years, to varying degrees of success. How can they avoid unprofitable strategies and develop a viable D2C ecommerce channel?

As acquisition costs continue to rise, it’s crucial for D2C brands to double down on the value provided to customers. For outdoor lifestyle company Solo Brands, this meant putting its loyal fan base first by leaning into customer experience, communication, and its value proposition to keep customers engaged and coming back for more.

D2C ecommerce will continue to grow at above-average rates. But that growth will be driven by established brands selling directly—not digitally native brands.

D2C ecommerce is rapidly evolving, driven by digital marketing, AI-enhanced personalization, sustainability, and more. By identifying and leveraging these emerging trends, businesses can effectively adapt to this competitive environment and address the dynamic expectations of consumers today.

On Running is bullish after growing sales 91.4% YoY during the holiday quarter: But Nike’s strong Q3 performance underscored its position as the dominant sneaker brand on the market.

Adidas will rely on wholesale to help dig it out of its Yeezy hole: But weak demand from retail partners could delay its comeback.

Hims & Hers defies digital health market odds: The D2C healthcare company grew revenues and membership—and unlike competitors, it’s increasing its marketing and advertising spend.

The next phase of direct-to-consumer (D2C) retail won’t be defined by a singular distribution strategy, but rather by the goal of making a real connection with customers. To get to the next level, D2Cs must use their physical presence, partnerships, marketing dollars, and customer data.

We expect retail sales growth to slow to 2.9% this year: That pullback in spending is leading retailers to cut staff to protect their bottom lines.

As the costs of doing business increase, direct-to-consumer (D2C) brands are struggling to find and keep customers. Some brands are selling their products through Amazon to capitalize on its search power. Others are turning to brick-and-mortar stores to help out.

Digitally native D2C brands’ ecommerce growth is decelerating: That’s forcing these retailers to adopt new strategies such as opening stores and selling wholesale.

Ariel Kaye, founder and CEO at Parachute, spoke with Insider Intelligence about creating a lifestyle brand within the competitive home market category.

US TV ad spending will decline from next year through 2026 except for a slight uptick in 2024. At the same time, connected TV ad spending will grow at double-digit annual rates, more than offsetting the losses on the traditional side.

Subscription models are driving customer loyalty in online sales of groceries and other essential goods, but fatigue among consumers threatens long-term growth.

Nike’s shift to D2C gives other sportswear brands an opening: Adidas, Reebok, Allbirds, and more are jockeying to take Nike’s place on store shelves.

Insider intelligence spoke with Andrew Condispoti, co-CEO of Goodlife Clothing, about the brand.

Established brands—and not DNVBs—will drive the vast majority of D2C ecommerce sales.

Recent gains in direct-to-consumer (D2C) ecommerce sales are being driven more by incumbent brands than disruptors. What can they learn from each other about building brands in the digital age?