Here are the recent happenings in the Retail and Consumer Tech world as of Aug 20, 2025…..

Amazon Eyes Android Exit

Amazon is preparing to drop Android as the base OS for its Fire tablets in favor of a new homegrown operating system codenamed “Vega.” According to Reuters, this move marks a strategic pivot to gain more control over user experience and app ecosystems, especially as Fire device sales show signs of stagnation.

Best Buy Joins Marketplace Race

Best Buy has officially launched its third-party digital marketplace, effectively doubling its product assortment and strengthening its competitive stance in the e-commerce space. Digital Commerce 360 and Mirakl report that this strategic launch is aimed at capturing greater online traffic and competing directly with Amazon and Walmart.

Wellness-Driven Spending Persists Amid Economic Concerns

Despite economic uncertainty, Gen Z and Millennials continue to prioritize health and wellness in their shopping choices. As The Packer highlights, fresh produce, organic items, and health-boosting products remain in high demand — pointing to a shift in consumer values that retailers must heed.

AI Gains Influence Over Shopping Decisions

Consumers are increasingly relying on artificial intelligence over friends and family for shopping advice. According to WTOP, a growing number of shoppers trust AI’s objectivity and data-backed recommendations, signaling a transformation in retail influence dynamics.

Retail Spending Shifts as Diners Stay Home

Consumers are shunning restaurants, boosting sales for grocery and big-box retailers. Reuters notes that concerns over inflation and health are pushing more Americans to cook at home, a trend retailers like Walmart and Costco are poised to capitalize on.

Target’s Return Policy May Spark Exodus

The Street reports growing customer dissatisfaction over Target’s rumored tightening of its return policy. With Walmart perceived as more lenient, industry watchers warn of a potential shift in customer loyalty.

Kohl’s Tech Strategy Evolves Under New CTO

Steven Dee, newly appointed CTO of Kohl’s, brings a fresh technology vision to the retailer. As reported by CIO Dive, Dee’s focus includes enhancing personalization, cloud infrastructure, and digital supply chain modernization.

Home Depot Doubles Down on Faster Fulfillment

To combat waning customer satisfaction, Home Depot is investing in faster delivery services. According to Customer Experience Dive, the company aims to strengthen its logistics infrastructure and improve last-mile delivery speed across key markets.

eCommerce Share Hits 16.3% of All Retail Sales

According to PYMNTS, eCommerce now accounts for 16.3% of all U.S. retail sales, underscoring the lasting consumer shift toward digital-first shopping experiences—even post-pandemic.

Retail Earnings in Focus This Week

Walmart, Target, and Home Depot headline the retail earnings week, with analysts watching closely for signals on consumer sentiment and inflationary pressures. The Wall Street Journal notes that investors are particularly interested in how each company is navigating shifting consumer behavior and operational challenges.

PR That Pays Off

Retail placement agency Kudos PR claims a whopping 586% ROI across 783 media placements in 800 stores, spanning categories from beauty to pet tech—highlighting the power of targeted PR and omnichannel retail strategies.

This article was initiated using AI technology provided by Apple and OpenAI.