MajorsJul 13, 2021
Signet Lands on NRF’s Top 100 Retailers ListSurveysAug 11, 2021
These Are the Fastest-Growing Retailers, Says NRF
One thing all the listed retailers have in common? A strong brand identity.
The National Retail Federation’s “Hot 25 Retailers” list showcases the fastest-growing retail companies in the United States.
Washington—The National Retail Federation has released its “Hot 25 Retailers” list highlighting the fastest-growing retail companies in the United States.
The annual rankings, compiled by data analytics company Kantar, are measured using year-over-year percentage increases in domestic sales; so, for this year’s list, 2019 vs. 2020.
All retail companies with more than $300 million in U.S. sales are eligible for inclusion on the list.
In 2021, Wine.com topped the list, bolstered by the rise in online shopping.
The annual rankings, compiled by data analytics company Kantar, are measured using year-over-year percentage increases in domestic sales; so, for this year’s list, 2019 vs. 2020.
All retail companies with more than $300 million in U.S. sales are eligible for inclusion on the list.
In 2021, Wine.com topped the list, bolstered by the rise in online shopping.
“Last year, you could do anything you wanted to. As long as you were able to get product to a shopper, you could make money.” — David Marcotte, Kantar
The company posted 99 percent sales growth in the U.S., totaling $329 million in 2020 compared with $165 million in 2019.
“Wine, generally speaking, is an emotional purchase,” said David Marcotte, senior vice president for Kantar, in a press release about the list. “People want to look at it, engage with it or collect it.”
Overstock.com came in second place with 75 percent sales growth, followed by online fashion retailer Boohoo Group with 60 percent growth.
Furniture e-tailer Wayfair was in fourth place followed by 1-800-Flowers.com.
In 2020, companies with a strong social media presence had the upper hand.
“Billboards don’t work really well when everybody is in lockdown,” said Marcotte. “But social media does.”
Rewinding five years, Blue Apron was in the top spot, followed by Wayfair and Ascena Retail Group, a testament to the importance of “a symbiotic relationship between digital and physical retailing.”
“I don’t think that’s changed too much,” said Marcotte. “I think, actually, the secret going into 2021-22 is having a profitable mix of digital and physical.”
“Last year, you could do anything you wanted to. As long as you were able to get product to a shopper, you could make money. As we get more and more competitive pressure coming to be, and shoppers get more price sensitive, then you have to start looking at profitability more intensely.”
Despite 2020 being an “outlier year,” retailers should still take the opportunity to look at what the successful e-tailers did and figure out which elements might work in their own businesses.
It’s also worth noting that all the companies on the list have a strong brand identity, said Marcotte, highlighting 1-800-Flowers.com, Inc., Boxed.com, Dollar General, Lululemon and Ollie’s Bargain Outlet specifically.
“I’m not sure I would say that’s a surprise, but it is something that stands out,” he said.
“They went into 2020 with a strong identification already. From there, their growth built out very quickly. For the most part, these companies did not need to build new capabilities to grow in 2020. They came into the year with the right tools. And that worked out for them pretty well.”
Read the full list here.
“Billboards don’t work really well when everybody is in lockdown,” said Marcotte. “But social media does.”
Rewinding five years, Blue Apron was in the top spot, followed by Wayfair and Ascena Retail Group, a testament to the importance of “a symbiotic relationship between digital and physical retailing.”
“I don’t think that’s changed too much,” said Marcotte. “I think, actually, the secret going into 2021-22 is having a profitable mix of digital and physical.”
“Last year, you could do anything you wanted to. As long as you were able to get product to a shopper, you could make money. As we get more and more competitive pressure coming to be, and shoppers get more price sensitive, then you have to start looking at profitability more intensely.”
Despite 2020 being an “outlier year,” retailers should still take the opportunity to look at what the successful e-tailers did and figure out which elements might work in their own businesses.
It’s also worth noting that all the companies on the list have a strong brand identity, said Marcotte, highlighting 1-800-Flowers.com, Inc., Boxed.com, Dollar General, Lululemon and Ollie’s Bargain Outlet specifically.
“I’m not sure I would say that’s a surprise, but it is something that stands out,” he said.
“They went into 2020 with a strong identification already. From there, their growth built out very quickly. For the most part, these companies did not need to build new capabilities to grow in 2020. They came into the year with the right tools. And that worked out for them pretty well.”
Read the full list here.
More on Surveys
The Latest
TrendsApr 17, 2026
New (Groundbreaking) Floral Jewelry for Spring 2026Flower motifs are the jewelry trend blooming amongst the new collections that debuted this spring.
MajorsApr 17, 2026
QVC Group Files for Chapter 11 BankruptcyThe retailer reported an 8 percent decline in annual sales as it struggles under the weight of billions of dollars of debt.
CollectionsApr 17, 2026
Edina Kiss’ Earrings Are the Devil on Your ShoulderThe “Devil” drop earrings, our Piece of the Week, are part of designer Edina Kiss’ new namesake jewelry line that she will show at Couture.
Brought to you by
Discover Timeless Treasures: A Showcase of Antique Jewelry & Timepieces in Las VegasGain access to the most exclusive and coveted antique pieces from trusted dealers during Las Vegas Jewelry Week.
CrimeApr 17, 2026
FBI Issues Warning to Refineries, Retailers Due to High Price of GoldThe alert states that burglary crews are targeting jewelry businesses and details how jewelers and refineries can protect themselves.
Weekly QuizApr 16, 2026
This Week’s QuizTest your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
WatchesApr 16, 2026
Cartier Brings Back the RoadsterThe “watchmaker of shapes” debuted the reworked version of the vintage sports car-inspired timepiece at Watches & Wonders.
IndependentsApr 16, 2026
Edge Retail Academy Updates Leadership TeamAs demand for jewelry retail coaching grows, the company has established a dedicated business coaching leadership team.
Brought to you by
Las Vegas Antique Jewelry & Watch Show: Showcasing the Most Collectible Merchandise from Across the GlobeGain access to the most exclusive and coveted antique pieces from trusted dealers during Las Vegas Jewelry Week.
MajorsApr 16, 2026
Stuller’s Latest Mountings Catalog Is Out NowThe “Mountings 2026-2027” catalog showcases Stuller’s largest and most diverse assortment to date with more than 400 new mounting styles.
PodcastsApr 15, 2026
Episode 4: The Natural Diamond DilemmaSally Morrison and Mark Klein discuss De Beers’ first beacon in 16 years and the mistake the industry made with lab-grown diamonds.
MajorsApr 15, 2026
Spark Creations’ Randy McKenzie Dies at 72 McKenzie spent 45 years with Spark Creations and is remembered for being kind, dedicated, and hardworking.
WatchesApr 15, 2026
These Are the New Rolex Watches for 2026Rolex focused exclusively on the Oyster Perpetual this year, as the model is celebrating its 100th anniversary.
FinancialsApr 15, 2026
Kering’s Jewelry Shines in Q1, Gucci’s Struggle ContinuesThe luxury giant discussed the Middle East conflict and its transformation plans, hinting at a stronger jewelry presence in North America.
SourcingApr 15, 2026
Diamond Club West Coast Names 2026 BoardKalpesh Jhaveri was re-elected as president for a third year.
TechnologyApr 15, 2026
This Jewelry Brand’s Video Series Is Up for a Webby Award“Diamond Divas,” a social media reality series by Shahla Karimi Jewelry, is nominated in the “Best Social: Fashion & Beauty” category.
SourcingApr 14, 2026
De Beers Expands ‘Desert Diamonds’ Beacon Into BridalThe campaign seeks to reignite desire for natural diamond engagement rings by highlighting the “distinct character” of warm-toned diamonds.
FinancialsApr 14, 2026
LVMH’s Q1 Sales Sink 6% Amid Middle East ConflictPlus, how Saks Global’s bankruptcy affected the luxury giant’s first quarter.
SourcingApr 14, 2026
International Jade Summit to Return to MontereyPresented by Mason-Kay Jade, the summit, in its second year, will again be held during the Monterey Bay Jade Festival.
Events & AwardsApr 14, 2026
CBG Releases Details for Las Vegas ShowThe group has announced its lineup of speakers and a new “Rising Stars” pavilion.
CollectionsApr 13, 2026
Uniform Object’s New Jewelry Collection Centers on the ‘Carbon Form’The “Carbon Form” collection explores the contrast between high and low materials, using rubber cord alongside 18-karat gold and gemstones.
Events & AwardsApr 13, 2026
JA Accepting 2026 Impact Initiative ApplicationsThe program provides essential funding to organizations for projects that enhance the jewelry industry.
Events & AwardsApr 13, 2026
Couture Announces New Show in MiamiThe jewelry trade show is launching its first open-to-the-public event in Coconut Grove this November.
CrimeApr 13, 2026
JSA Offers Reward in Oregon Jewelry Store Armed RobberyJSA is seeking information about the gunpoint robbery of a Kay Jewelers location in Oregon’s Washington Square Mall.
WatchesApr 10, 2026
These Watches Have Increased in Value the Most Since 2018, Says Chrono24The top-performing watch models may be surprising, with Rolex and several popular pandemic-era picks notably absent from the top 20.
CollectionsApr 10, 2026
Ophelia Eve’s Toggle Pendant Holds Your SecretsThe “Scroll” toggle pendant, our Piece of the Week, opens to reveal a hidden message, mantra, or love letter written on washi paper.
ColumnistsApr 09, 2026
Jewelry Demand Isn’t Stronger, Prices Are Just Higher Jewelers who misinterpret the state of the jewelry market risk employing the wrong retail strategy, cautions columnist Sherry Smith.
MajorsApr 09, 2026
Tiffany & Co. Promotes Nathalie Verdeille to SVP, Chief Artistic OfficerIn her newly expanded role, she will continue to oversee the jewelry category, as well as watches, home, and accessories.
