The EU expects tariffs to weigh on growth this year and next: The bloc downgraded its GDP expectations due to levels of uncertainty “not seen since the darkest moments” of the pandemic.

US-UK trade deal eases barriers across key sectors: Our FAQ explains how the pact may benefit exporters and affect economic growth.

Alibaba and JD.com embark on ambitious expansions despite challenging conditions: Both are making expensive delivery investments that could worsen China’s price wars.

Agentic AI gains momentum: As Amazon, Walmart, eBay and others experiment with AI agents, retailers need to to figure out how to market to bots in addition to humans.

David’s Bridal goes upscale: The retailer launched a higher-end boutique called Diamonds & Pearls that offers a more intimate, elevated experience.

Discounts are a primary motivator for TikTok Shop purchases: But that tactic may not be sustainable for sellers reeling from the impact of China tariffs.

Retail sales rose 5.2% YoY in April: But the gains mask a tough climate as consumers pulled forward purchases of tariff-sensitive items like home goods.

Dick’s Sporting Goods is buying Foot Locker: The deal will significantly boost the big box retailer’s market share and bargaining power—though it carries significant risk.

Shein, Temu take advantage of tariff reprieve: Shein is raising prices while Temu resumes China shipments, as both retailers try to undo a sales slump.

Walmart will raise prices soon to offset “too high” tariffs: Even with the reduction in China duties, the cost is too much for the retailer and its suppliers to absorb.

Drunk Elephant’s sales plunge as Gen Alpha appeal dims: The brand’s reliance on the fickle audience has damaged its standing with older consumers.

The effects of new tariffs are starting to hit home: Retailers that rely on discretionary spending are struggling, signaling rising anxiety among businesses and consumers—and likely slower growth ahead.

Burberry will cut 20% of global workforce as sales slump continues: The company’s ill-timed brand elevation push puts it in a difficult position to weather luxury headwinds.

US immigration policy fuels hospitality and retail concerns: Deportations exacerbate hospitality labor shortages as consumer-goods makers cite softer sales.

Urban Outfitters teams up with Nike for “On Rotation”: The Gen Z-focused in-store experience features an assortment of Nike apparel and footwear curated for UO’s audience.

Inflation waned in April: But early signs of cost increases are emerging.

On Running leans into premiumization to offset tariff impact: The company plans to raise prices as enthusiasm for its expensive sneakers remains high.

The US could be the only country to experience a drop in foreign travel spending this year: Tariffs, uncertain travel policies, and a boycott by Canadian and Mexican travelers may cost the economy $12.5 billion.

The Trump administration is stepping back from the brink: After trimming China tariffs to 30% for 90 days, it reduced duties on low-value parcels from China to a still-high 54%.

Carvana, CarMax expect price advantage as auto tariffs take effect: But softer demand coupled with automakers’ efforts to keep new car pricing steady could blunt their edge.