Costco Struggles to Boost Ecommerce Growth

Costco Struggles to Boost Ecommerce Growth

Costco, a membership-based warehouse retail giant, faces challenges in e-commerce despite its active efforts. Constrained by its traditional model, it lags behind competitors like Sam's Club in BOPIS (Buy Online, Pick Up In Store) and website traffic. To succeed in its e-commerce transformation, Costco needs to optimize its product mix, explore new delivery methods, experiment with BOPIS, and strengthen member engagement. Addressing these areas will be crucial for Costco to effectively compete in the evolving online retail landscape and leverage its membership model for digital success.

Ibms Weather Company Unveils Logistics Dashboard for Ground Transport

Ibms Weather Company Unveils Logistics Dashboard for Ground Transport

IBM's The Weather Company has launched a Ground Transportation Operations Dashboard, integrating weather and traffic data to help freight and logistics companies optimize routes and improve safety. The dashboard provides customized information for dispatchers, distribution centers, and drivers, leveraging real-time data through a partnership with Inrix. It aims to enhance decision-making by providing actionable insights based on predictive weather impacts. Future plans include expanding the solution to rail and intermodal transportation, offering a comprehensive view of potential disruptions and enabling proactive management of the supply chain.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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Global DTC Marketing Trends and Strategies for 2026

Global DTC Marketing Trends and Strategies for 2026

The "2026 Global DTC Independent Site Marketing Insights Report" reveals emerging trends in global independent site marketing. It highlights the rising cost of traffic, pushing brands to focus on cultivating deeper brand awareness. Western Europe is mature but requires localized operations, North America is influenced by policies, and Southeast Asia is dominated by platform e-commerce. Beauty & personal care and health supplements show strong performance, with content commerce and contextual storytelling being key drivers for growth. This report offers valuable insights for businesses navigating the evolving landscape of DTC independent site marketing.

US Rail Freight Rises in Carloads Dips in Intermodal

US Rail Freight Rises in Carloads Dips in Intermodal

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carloads increased by 0.6% for the week ending August 23rd, with grain and automotive shipments performing strongly. However, intermodal traffic decreased by 1.9% year-over-year, potentially indicating a cooling consumer demand. Year-to-date figures still show overall growth in rail freight demand. Looking ahead, rail freight faces challenges such as economic recession risks and labor shortages, but also opportunities including infrastructure investment and sustainable development initiatives. Overall, the sector presents a mixed picture of present growth and future uncertainty.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Growth Mixed in November YTD Up

US Rail Freight Growth Mixed in November YTD Up

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows that for the week ending November 1st, U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic decreased year-over-year, but cumulative volumes for the year remain positive. Increased shipments of grain and metallic ores were observed, while coal and motor vehicle shipments declined, reflecting economic restructuring and changing market demands. Railroad companies need to pay attention to these structural shifts and proactively address the challenges they present. This data provides insights into the current economic landscape and the evolving role of rail freight.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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Revised Kyoto Convention Aims to Streamline Global Trade

Revised Kyoto Convention Aims to Streamline Global Trade

The 15th session of the Revised Kyoto Convention Management Committee focused on the convention's widespread accession and effective implementation. Discussions covered the challenges and opportunities associated with joining the convention. The committee approved updates to the guidelines on the 'de minimis' system and Specific Annex J.2 concerning postal traffic. A new virtual working group was established to plan the convention's revision process, aiming to ensure it adapts to modern customs management needs and promotes international trade facilitation. The revisions intend to streamline customs procedures and enhance efficiency within the global trade landscape.

Xiaohongshu Trials Paid Content Promotion for Brands

Xiaohongshu Trials Paid Content Promotion for Brands

Xiaohongshu's Dandelion platform is internally testing a "Content Boosting" feature, providing brands and agencies with a new traffic entry point to increase exposure and engagement of filed notes. Compared to Potato Chips (Xiaohongshu's paid promotion tool), Content Boosting has a shorter material cycle, does not support audience targeting, and has a spending cap. It is more suitable for boosting and discovering high-quality notes, and can be linked with performance ads for better promotion results. Brands are advised to pay attention and experience it as soon as possible. It is a new way to increase organic reach and drive engagement.

Tiktok Shop Shifts to Managed Model in Crossborder Ecommerce

Tiktok Shop Shifts to Managed Model in Crossborder Ecommerce

TikTok e-commerce is reportedly launching a "fully managed" model, where merchants only supply goods and the platform handles operations. This aims to shorten the sales process and improve efficiency, with plans to fully open the Shop function in the US this year. The fully managed model is becoming an industry trend, testing the platform's product selection and operational capabilities, while also bringing opportunities and challenges to merchants. TikTok e-commerce is accelerating its transformation, and the combination of its massive traffic and the fully managed model may reshape the landscape of cross-border e-commerce.

Global Trade Faces Winter Strain As US Holiday Demand Looms

Global Trade Faces Winter Strain As US Holiday Demand Looms

The Global Trade Health Index reveals a significant drop in order volumes in the European market, impacted by the energy crisis and inflation. While the US market is less affected, retail orders are also decreasing, leading to substantial inventory pressure. The potential for recovery during the holiday season remains uncertain, requiring close monitoring of market dynamics.

Tiktok Lowers Revenue Forecast Amid Slowing Ad Growth

Tiktok Lowers Revenue Forecast Amid Slowing Ad Growth

Affected by the global online consumption slowdown, TikTok has lowered its annual revenue target to approximately $10 billion, primarily due to hindered growth in advertising and e-commerce. The company is undergoing business restructuring, with the North American General Manager reassigned to oversee TikTok Shop. Despite facing challenges, TikTok leads in US advertising revenue and is actively developing its e-commerce business. Its future development is worth watching.