On Running, a global disruptor in the athletic footwear industry, opened its seventh and largest U.S. location this past weekend in Chicago’s Gold Coast neighborhood. Read on for a first look. bit.ly/3A1tBEc

In our latest blog, we share key takeaways from Shoptalk Fall, covering topics like first-party data, generative AI, product assortment, store experience, and unified commerce. We highlight 15 examples from retailers including Ulta, Target, & Fabletics. bit.ly/3YyK646

Amazon recently opened its first small-format grocery store, Amazon Grocery, in Downtown Chicago. The 3,800-square-foot location offers a streamlined, 3,500 SKU assortment of convenience and grocery basics. bit.ly/4fiNohu

Walmart Data Ventures showcased how retailers can transform their first-party data into powerful insights that drive sales and grow retail media revenue. Read on to learn more about the event and its applications for your retail business. bit.ly/4hETg6B

What's new in Chicago? Join us for a rundown of over 10 recent retail arrivals to the city, including the Google Store, Baggu, Barnes & Noble, and more. Contact us to learn about our custom Study Tour services. bit.ly/40Merxx

London-based women’s activewear brand Sweaty Betty opened two new U.S. stores this past weekend in Georgetown and Chicago. Our team visited the Chicago store to better understand the brand’s approach as it re-enters the physical retail market. bit.ly/4fGdT18

We’re back with our annual guide to the top trends and brands to watch in the new year. Our team of retail experts curated a list of over 60 must-have picks across 12 categories ... just in time for last minute holiday shopping! bit.ly/3Vv8Rwj

Within the past three weeks, Vancouver-founded women’s apparel brand Aritzia has opened three new flagships. We provide a first look at the Michigan Avenue flagship and insight into Aritzia's US geographic expansion strategy. bit.ly/3P2I7j0

We’re excited to share that three of our consultants have received the prestigious RETHINK Retail Top Retail Experts award! This distinction celebrates their thought leadership, expertise, and commitment to driving innovation in the retail & CPG indu... bit.ly/4a6S0py

Tour the newest Harry Potter Shop in Chicago with us! bit.ly/42JwRia

At the center of Pop Mart’s breakout success is Labubu, a rabbit-like figure who has become the face of a cultural and commercial movement. A visit to the Pop Mart store in Oak Brook Mall provides some insight into the Chinese collectible toy company. bit.ly/3TCpbK5

Innovation powerhouses Costco and Lululemon understand what their customers value and deliver products they want. Whether through Costco’s value-driven curation or Lululemon's product innovation, both have taken distinct paths to win over customers. bit.ly/4nSb2qh

As the price of food increases, shoppers are adjusting their behavior, accelerating shifts across retail. McMillanDoolittle Director Amanda Lai joined NPR’s Chicago affiliate to discuss how consumers are adapting and what it means for retailers. bit.ly/41aOHdG

As consumer expectations around the shopping experience have changed, malls are evolving to maintain their relevance. McMillanDoolittle's Amanda Lai joined NPR’s Chicago affiliate to discuss why some shopping centers are lagging while others are lead... bit.ly/4laFGsh

A general store featuring nostalgia and practicality, a luxury boutique offering apparel and wine, and an experiential retailer reimaging mini-golf are three examples of unique shopping experiences worth a stop to vacationers on summer road trips. bit.ly/4fAdjm9

Back-to-school campaigns featuring brands that offer memorable moments win hearts and wallets of families and help build consumer loyalty and preferences. Read more for three brands turning back‑to‑school into a cultural moment. bit.ly/4oMPyLV

Back by popular demand and for the second year running, McMillanDoolittle partnered with ShopTalk to host Shopwalk retail store tours in Chicago last week. Read more for a first-hand look at some of the city’s most innovative and inspiring retail co... bit.ly/46wTOqF

Last month we partnered with Shoptalk to host store tours in Chicago. Although the aesthetics, categories, and audiences differ, one thing that Jonathan Adler, Vuori & Tiffany have in common is a physical presence with passion, product and hospitality. bit.ly/4nb9czn

The opening of Kith, the NY-based luxury streetwear and lifestyle brand, in Chicago's Gold Coast and Jellycat, the British plush label known for its whimsical designs, on Michigan Avenue underscore how global brands are betting on Chicago. bit.ly/3L02eQ7

The Global E-Commerce Leaders Forum (GELF) recently held an event in NYC, marking GELF’s return to events after a pause in programming. McMillanDoolittle partner Jim Okamura co-hosted the event which focused on the challenges of global trade. bit.ly/3Lt3TxV