Chris Blakeslee has experience at Athleta and Alo Yoga. Kendra Scott will remain on board as executive chair and chief visionary officer.
Retailers focusing on mobile email, paid search
The device is different but the methods are familiar. A new survey from Shop.org shows that retailers are shifting their focus--and their marketing dollars--to mobile, but are using well-known methods in doing so: email and paid search.
Huntington Beach, Calif.--The device is different but the methods are familiar. A new survey from Shop.org shows that retailers are shifting their focus--and their marketing dollars--to mobile, but are using well-known methods in doing so: email and paid search.
According to the survey, “The State of Online Retailing Online 2013: Marketing & Merchandising,” conducted in conjunction with global research and advisory firm Forrester Research Inc., 87 percent of online retailers already have or plan to implement mobile email marketing in 2013.
A total of 71 percent will use paid search for smartphones while 73 percent will do so for tablet computers.
“Email has always been one of most effective customer retention vehicles in the market, so it’s no surprise to see retailers investing to make email engaging and relevant for the increasingly mobile consumer,” said Shop.org Executive Director Vicki Cantrell.
According to the survey, 28 percent of emails sent to customers are first opened on a smartphone; that number increases to 42 percent for small retailers.
Given their stated focus on mobile email and paid search marketing, it is no surprise that online retailers are planning to invest more in those areas.
According to the survey, across all digital platforms, email and search are where 80 percent of retailers are most likely to invest more this year than they did last year. In addition, 40 percent of retailers surveyed plan to hire for open positions in marketing analytics this year.
The survey also asked online retailers about their plans for their websites in the coming year. Integrating video was among the top priorities, with 72 percent said they will invest in adding video on their sites. A total of 62 percent said that adding recommendations and personalization features will be their No. 1 focus. This includes capabilities that allow them to create different home pages and unique pages based on individual customers’ purchase histories.
Shop.org is the digital retail arm of the National Retail Federation. Surveys in its “State of Online Retailing” research series polled 65 companies in industries including apparel, footwear, general merchandise, home furnishings and personal care.
The Latest

The credit card companies’ surveys examined where consumers shopped, what they bought, and what they valued this holiday season.

Kimberly Miller has been promoted to the role.

How Jewelers of America’s 20 Under 40 are leading to ensure a brighter future for the jewelry industry.

The “Serenity” charm set with 13 opals is a modern amulet offering protection, guidance, and intention, the brand said.


“Bridgerton” actresses Hannah Dodd and Claudia Jessie star in the brand’s “Rules to Love By” campaign.

Founded by jeweler and sculptor Ana Khouri, the brand is “expanding the boundaries of what high jewelry can be.”

Roseco’s 704-page catalog showcases new lab-grown diamonds, findings, tools & more—available in print or interactive digital editions.

The jewelry manufacturer and supplier is going with a fiery shade it says symbolizes power and transformation.

The singer-songwriter will make her debut as the French luxury brand’s new ambassador in a campaign for its “Coco Crush” jewelry line.

The nonprofit’s new president and CEO, Annie Doresca, also began her role this month.

As the shopping mall model evolves and online retail grows, Smith shares his predictions for the future of physical stores.

The trade show is slated for Jan. 31-Feb. 2 at The Lighthouse in New York City's Chelsea neighborhood.

January’s birthstone comes in a rainbow of colors, from the traditional red to orange, purple, and green.

The annual report highlights how it supported communities in areas where natural diamonds are mined, crafted, and sold.

Footage of a fight breaking out in the NYC Diamond District was viewed millions of times on Instagram and Facebook.

The supplier has a curated list of must-have tools for jewelers doing in-house custom work this year.

The Signet Jewelers-owned store, which turned 100 last year, calls its new concept stores “The Edit.”

Linda Coutu is rejoining the precious metals provider as its director of sales.

The governing board welcomed two new members, Claire Scragg and Susan Eisen.

Sparkle with festive diamond jewelry as we celebrate the beginning of 2026.

The master jeweler, Olympian, former senator, and Korean War veteran founded the brand Nighthorse Jewelry.

In its annual report, Pinterest noted an increase in searches for brooches, heirloom jewelry, and ‘80s luxury.

Executive Chairman Richard Baker will take over the role as rumors swirl that a bankruptcy filing is imminent for the troubled retailer.

Mohr had just retired in June after more than two decades as Couture’s retailer liaison.

Shekhar Shah of Real Gems Inc. will serve as president of the Indian Diamond & Colorstone Association in 2026.

This year’s good luck charm features the mythical horse Pegasus, and is our first Piece of the Week of the new year.





















