Shopping News

Groceries at 50% off? Yes, but it’s timing that counts.

The savings power is in perishable items

Instacart's new technology connects in-person and online shopping

The update provides consumers the best of both worlds with both online and in-person grocery shopping

New tech recycling program at Staples rewards consumers with cash

The program may help both the environment and Staples customers

Is the U.S. facing a beer shortage?

A lack of available CO2 could mean production cuts and higher prices

Customer satisfaction is nearing its lowest point ever, a new study suggests

One expert says the customer is the last thing on a company’s mind in a shortage economy

Walmart updates virtual try-on with technology that allows shoppers to be their own model

The company hopes to improve consumers’ online shopping experience

A pending rail strike could make inflation even worse

Delivery of packages by UPS could be greatly affected

Kroger introduces new store brand to help consumers save money

Finding the consumer’s comfort zone with price points will continue, analysts say

Meijer to open new grocery stores that focus on convenience and fresh foods

Consumers can also get the updated COVID-19 booster at Meijer pharmacies

Oops! Major retailers bought too much and are offering shoppers deals to take it off their hands

Finding the sales may be tricky. ConsumerAffairs gives you a head start.

Wawa offers extra savings on gas, teachers get free coffee in September

Consumers can save extra money during the back-to-school season

A Thanksgiving turkey will cost more this year, experts say

Avian influenza has devastated U.S. turkey flocks

Movie tickets are just $3 on September 3 for National Cinema Day

Experts hope this promotion will help fill more seats in movie theaters

Sam’s Club raising its membership fee for the first time in nine years

The annual fee is still less than rival Costco’s

Fast food prices are going one way – up

To counter this trend, chains are adding new products to lure customers

Labor Day bargains are plentiful, shopping experts say

ConsumerAffairs lists the deals from A-Z

Walmart unveils top toys of 2022 ahead of the holiday season

The list is out over a month earlier than it was in 2021

Peloton will now sell products and apparel in U.S. Amazon stores

The company is expanding beyond its own website

Walmart+ members now have access to new store rewards program

The company is first focusing on making the program available to Walmart+ members

Lunch meat prices are on the rise in the heart of back-to-school season

As costs for just about everything continue to increase, parents are forced to make tough budgeting decisions

The price of chicken wings is back down just in time for football season

Shifting consumer prices at the grocery show both concerns and hope

Consumers can now get school supplies delivered with Uber Eats

Uber One members get their deliveries for free

USPS to temporarily raise postage rates for holiday mail

Price increases will depend on class of service, weight, and speed of delivery

Consumers are seeing higher prices for back-to-school items

Shoppers can still find some deals online and on apps

Bipartisan legislation aims to lower credit card swipe fees

Experts doubt whether the proposal would be good for consumers

Back-to-school shoppers are finding bargains despite inflation

Big-box retailers are overstocked and are marking down some merchandise

Sprite’s iconic green bottle is being retired for clear plastic

Coca-Cola says getting rid of the green will make the product more ‘green’

Corporate policies are to blame for staff shortages, report finds

Critics say requiring a college degree for entry-level jobs shuts millions out of the market

More businesses are charging fees for using credit or debit cards

New Jersey is cracking down on businesses that fail to disclose the fees

Businesses continue to struggle to find employees

For consumers, it means longer wait times and more self-service

Macy’s to bring Toys 'R' Us to all stores for the holidays

New features include hands-on workshops and photo opportunities with Geoffrey the Giraffe

Parents continue to struggle to find infant formula

Thirty percent of formula products were out of stock at the beginning of July

Intel to reportedly raise CPU prices by as much as 20%

Consumers might be able to find some good deals before the price hike happens

Starbucks responds to rising crime by closing 16 stores

Other retail businesses are also confronting threats to customers’ and employees’ safety

Supply issues, labor costs, and high fuel prices continue driving up food prices

Industry experts say the same thing that is making everything else more expensive

Grocery shoppers are turning to private brands in growing numbers, suggests a new study

Price rules, but sustainability and health are also enticements

Drinking coffee before shopping may make consumers spend more money, study finds

Decaf coffee and water didn’t have the same effect on shopping habits

Once a luxury, dining out may be a way to escape food inflation

It now costs more to eat at home than at a restaurant

Grocery prices are rising at a 40-year high rate

Consumers are turning to membership clubs where per-item prices are a bit lower

Whistleblower claims problems at baby formula plant were known a year before shutdown

The closure of the Abbott Laboratories plant set off a nationwide infant formula shortage

FTC launches probe of pharmacy benefit managers

The investigation is aimed at lowering prescription drug prices

Infant formula plant closed since February restarts operations

The company says it could take two months to fully replenish supplies

FTC wants consumers to weigh in on the impact of the infant formula crisis

Between it and the FDA, the agency hopes to find some answers that can prevent this issue from happening again

Congress introduces $28 million bill to address scarcity of infant formula

The FTC warns consumers that scammers are already prowling for victims who need formula

Despite shortage, doctors urge parents not to make their own infant formula

Pediatricians say it’s not as easy as it looks

Federal agencies look for solutions to infant formula shortage

Experts say there is no easy fix

Consumers detail problems with Planet Fitness cancellation policies

Some say making it harder for members to cancel is a calculated move that’s designed to keep people paying

Out-of-stock baby formula issues hit a critical point across the U.S.

Doctors advise parents not to dilute their formula to stretch it out

Disney is the brand with the strongest emotional bond, survey finds

Tesla and Apple are close behind

FDA investigates illnesses reportedly linked to Lucky Charms cereal

Thousands of consumers have reported getting sick after eating the product

Peloton to slash prices on equipment but raise prices on subscriptions

The company is also testing a rental option for its bikes

Top reviews influence consumers' buying more than products with high ratings, study finds

Experts say online shoppers are swayed the most by reviews when choosing what to purchase

Egg prices spike as bird flu continues to wipe out U.S. commercial chicken flocks

Cage-free eggs are still available at favorable price points

U.S. sanctions on Russia are putting the squeeze on the diamond market

The FTC is warning diamond marketers about how they sell lab-grown gems to consumers

Consumers face rising prices and smaller portions at restaurants

Diners seem to be comfortable with menu changes, but the restaurant industry is still trying to figure things out

Starbucks to remove disposable cups and other single-use plastics

The company also wants to install electric vehicle charging stations at store locations

Uber adds surcharge to each ride starting Wednesday

Record fuel prices cause the ride-sharing company to act

Russia-Ukraine war greatly impacts consumer prices and products

Groceries, consumer electronics, and vehicles are getting hit the hardest

Consumers express frustrations with companies that automate customer service

It’s increasingly hard to talk to another human when you have a problem

Russia's invasion of Ukraine may have a big impact on food prices in the U.S.

A lot is at stake depending on the magnitude of the conflict and how long it lasts

Target to add Starbucks service to its pickup orders

Other improvements include a wider variety of item substitutions and adult beverage pickup options

Family Dollar closes hundreds of stores due to rodent infestation at distribution center

The FDA says a wide range of regulated products are being recalled

Burger King takes its Whopper off the value meal menu

Consumers can expect fast food prices to continue to climb

Avocado imports from Mexico stopped following threat to U.S. official

Prices are likely to grow as demand continues

Peloton to cut thousands of jobs as it replaces its CEO

The company feels good about its chances of turning things around

Fast-food restaurants strengthened consumer bonds during the pandemic

A study shows that Chick-fil-A was the top brand for a second year

Starbucks will raise prices again to offset rising costs

The company says supply chain and employee costs are rising

Beef prices likely to continue their upward trend

President Biden says it’s time for the big meat processors to treat consumers, farmers, and ranchers with more respect

FedEx suspends some freight shipment services

The company said it is dealing with staff shortages and supply chain issues

Domino’s to start tipping consumers $3 to pick up their own orders

It’s a good deal, but it only lasts for a few months

Lowe’s and Petco to launch store-at-store concept

Retail experts say consumers should expect more of these combinations

Krispy Kreme offers free donuts to blood donors

The company said it wants to help the Red Cross deal with a continuing blood shortage

Online grocery stores struggle with consistent food labeling, study finds

Experts hope this changes so that consumers are given better information about their food choices

Peloton to pause production of fitness equipment as part of regrouping effort

The decision was based on a downturn in fitness equipment purchases

Retailers struggle to keep shelves fully stocked

Staff shortages are contributing to the latest supply chain woes

Restaurant industry asks for more federal relief from Congress

The pinch of the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted menu items, drive-thrus, and pick-up times

Taco Bell launches $10 taco subscription service nationwide

Industry watchers say subscriptions are a smart idea during the pandemic

Macy’s to close more stores in 2022

The retailer is emphasizing smaller stores and its online channel

Holiday spending posts largest increase in 17 years

Consumers increased spending on clothing, jewelry, and electronics

Old Navy earns praise for size inclusion efforts

The company says consumers of all sizes should have equal access to clothing products

Retail CEOs ask Congress for help in ending 'smash and grab' crime wave

The executives claim that their stores' merchandise ends up on rogue websites

CVS Health plans to expand its range of health care services

The company will try to improve health care delivery through technology

DoorDash looks to speed up service in the delivery game

The company’s long-term goal could include private label delivery services for retailers

Target rolls out 10% discount gift card sale this weekend

Consumers need to beware of gift card scammers, especially during the holidays

Dollar General to expand pOpshelf stores following successful trial

The stores are focused on suburban and wealthier shoppers

Toys ‘R’ Us to open new flagship store after previously suffering bankruptcy

The company’s deal with Macy’s should pump up the company’s bottom line

FTC to investigate supply chain issues and how they affect consumers

The agency has asked major companies to detail the problems they’re facing

Dollar Tree to increase prices by 25% starting in 2022

The company’s internal research suggests that customers are ok with the price hike

CVS Health to close 900 stores over the next three years

Changes in population, consumer buying patterns, and health needs were cited as reasons

Thanksgiving turkeys cost more and are in shorter supply this year

Agriculture experts say consumers can find one if they are willing to compromise

Tyson Foods is raising meat prices across the board

The company says none of its costs have gone down or remained the same

Bed Bath & Beyond to sell products through Kroger

The company’s products will appear on Kroger’s website early next year

Whole Foods now charges $9.95 for grocery deliveries

Walmart is already trying to convert Prime subscribers into Walmart+ members

Truck driver shortage puts supply chain at great risk, trucking group says

No relief is in sight unless shipments decline and new drivers sign on

Package delivery services release shipping dates for 2021 holidays

Delivery slowdowns and scams are major concerns

FTC to crack down on companies using fake reviews and misleading endorsements

The agency has sent warning letters to over 700 companies

AT&T customers report concerns about trade-in and upgrade promotions

One expert says frustrated customers should use social media to help resolve issues

Sam's Club pops the cork on wine delivery

Private label wines can be good and very affordable

Burger King to test Impossible Nuggets as a menu item

The plant-based chicken nuggets will first be available in three U.S. markets

Kellogg’s factory workers go on strike over failed contract negotiations

Consumers may find that cereal aisles are less stocked at grocery stores until the issue is resolved

New U.S. Postal Service delivery standards take effect Friday

USPS will have longer to deliver some mail

Dollar Tree to raise its prices as inflation increases

The discount retailer will begin pricing items at up to $1.50

Costco is combating product shortages by reimposing purchase limits

Panic buying and supply chain issues have led to the return of empty shelves

With labor challenges and tightening supplies, meat prices likely to change heading to fall

Wing lovers need to gird for a big spike in prices

New report suggests rising COVID cases are thwarting dining recovery again

Data shows different trajectories for restaurants in one of the country's largest chains

Albertsons and DoorDash partner to create more synergy in the delivery game

The grocery chain hopes this move will further elevate its customer appreciation

Do warehouse membership clubs really save you money?

Researchers say they do, as long as you can afford to buy in bulk

Kroger and Instacart team up to offer 30-minute delivery

Convenience is the key and the grocer feels it has no option but to try and meet growing consumer demand

Consumers feeling the pain of supply-chain bottlenecks

Businesses say they can’t get all the materials they need to make products

Amazon to launch 'Just Walk Out' Tech at Whole Foods stores

No special membership required, but customers must have an Amazon account

Impossible Foods introduces plant-based chicken

Impossible Chicken Nuggets will appear on restaurant menus this week

Starbucks employees in Buffalo seek to form a union

The employees say they want to be real partners

Wendy’s re-engineers its fries to stay fresher for longer

The move is a response to a surge in take-out and delivery orders

Peloton’s update of the recalled Tread+ debuts next week

The new machine has a smaller footprint and lower cost

Biden administration boosts SNAP benefits by 30%

Changes to the program will go into effect starting in October

Taco Bell prepares to break ground on its Defy restaurant concept

The two-story restaurant will feature four drive-thru lanes

Wendy’s to open 700 ‘ghost kitchens’ for delivery-only orders

The chain is looking to adapt to the pandemic and reach more customers in more ways

Researchers expect grocery delivery services to grow beyond the pandemic

Data shows that during the shutdowns, consumers bonded with companies bringing them food

Kroger to begin offering prepared meals for takeout

Its partnership with Kitchen United will produce food from six restaurant brands

Parents are feeling pressure to spend more on back-to-school items, poll finds

Experts offer ways to keep yourself financially secure while teaching kids the importance of budgeting

Supply chain issues could affect the holiday shopping season

Floods in Europe and China are complicating both production and shipping

Foot Locker to buy two shoe chains in $1 billion cash deal

The shoe retailer is aiming to extend its reach into other demographics

Coffee prices to spike as cold weather threatens Brazilian crops

Will this be temporary or permanent? A coffee expert weighs in

Ulta Beauty will open stores-within-stores at 100 Target locations next month

The beauty retailer is the latest brand to have a presence in Target stores

Taco Bell says food shortages are affecting the availability of some menu items

Customers have already begun reporting issues when visiting some restaurants

Buying furniture during the pandemic requires a lot of patience

Delivery times are growing because of shortages and supply chain issues

Preventing impulse buying may be different depending on who you are, researchers say

Study findings suggest that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to stopping unnecessary spending

Grocery shoppers should prepare for a spike in prices

Water droughts and worker shortages are two factors behind the hike

Grubhub will use robots for college campus deliveries

The service will roll out at 250 colleges this fall

Subway to add new menu items to improve customer experience

Upgrades to Subway’s stores and app will go live on July 13

Walmart launches less expensive insulin product

The new product will allow customers to save between 58% to 75% on their insulin

Consumers forced to pay higher prices due to the computer chip shortage

Businesses are passing on extra costs to shoppers

FTC offers tips to consumers who shop online

The agency says to pay attention to details and make sure you know what you’re buying

Consumers warned to beware of scammers on Amazon Prime Day

Phishing, fake websites, and bogus advertisements top the warning list

Best Buy begins selling luggage and outdoor products as the pandemic winds down

The retailer said shoppers appear to be traveling more and investing more in their homes

Verizon customer shocked by mistaken $13,000 phone bill

A two-month battle shows how to solve a big problem with a major company

Consumer prices rose 0.6% last month

An economist says consumers should expect prices to keep going up

Starbucks is resuming its reusable coffee cup policy on June 22

The company said new health precautions will also be put in place

Walmart, Target announce sales events to compete with Amazon’s Prime Day

The retailers’ discount events will happen on the same dates as this year’s Prime Day

Major meat processor resumes operations after cyberattack

JBS said U.S. plants are back online and shipping product

Etsy to acquire fashion resale marketplace Depop for $1.63 billion

The secondhand market is beloved by Gen Z consumers, and Etsy sees the potential for growth

Chili’s enters the chicken sandwich wars, but only for a limited time

Chicken prices continue to rise in the U.S.

Chicken prices spike higher as labor shortage affects the industry

Chicken wing prices are up 180% compared to before the pandemic

Burger King adds new chicken sandwich to its menu

For a limited time, consumers will get a free Whopper with the purchase of a Ch’King sandwich

Honda, Moderna, Chick-fil-A, and SpaceX are top brands with consumers

The Axios-Harris Poll 100 ranks companies with the best reputations

Consumer prices jump 0.8% in April from March

An economist says rising prices may be with us for a while

Consumers should get ready for price hikes on many popular products

One expert says bottlenecks in supply chains will continue to have a major impact

Being around kids makes adults more generous, study finds

Experts say this could extend beyond cash donations

Product reviews affect consumers' online shopping decisions, study finds

Certain kinds of reviews can make consumers more or less likely to make purchases

Kroger to start testing drone delivery of bundled grocery items

Test flights will take place later this week in Ohio

Americans’ appetite for chicken is creating a shortage

Consumers could soon see larger price increases at the supermarket

Budweiser offers consumers free beer if they get vaccinated against COVID-19

Consumers can enter now through May 15 to get a ‘free round’ courtesy of the beer maker

Retailers and banks deploy new technology to fight friendly fraud

The new data stream allows retailers and banks to push back against fraud

Domino’s launches autonomous pizza delivery in Houston

The pizza chain is using the Nuro R2 robot for last-mile delivery

Fast-food restaurants are disappearing from Walmart

McDonald’s and Subway are reportedly closing hundreds of restaurants

Best Buy rolls out new membership program loaded with perks

Customers can get concierge service, technical support, and several other benefits

Starbucks to offer new reusable cup in eco-friendly trial

Customers can ‘borrow a cup’ and receive rewards points

Ketchup shortages hit U.S. following bump in takeout orders during the pandemic

Prices for the condiment have increased by 13 percent since early 2020

Food marketing may not be as effective after consumers lose weight, study finds

Experts say obesity can make people more susceptible to food marketing campaigns

Prices for Scott toilet paper, Huggies diapers, and other products are about to go up

Parent company Kimberly-Clark says price hikes will be rolled out in the coming months

The U.S. Postal Service offers plan for slower and more expensive mail to help cut costs

The 10-year plan is aimed at preventing a $160 billion deficit

Krispy Kreme to give free doughnuts to customers who show their vaccination record card

The promotion allows for ‘one redemption per guest per day’ throughout 2021

Toys ‘R’ Us stores may return to the U.S. in a variety of formats

Another company has acquired the brand and is planning an expansion

House passes bill expanding background checks on firearms sales

Bipartisanship made it happen in the House and is anticipated in the Senate

Target is introducing a new premium food brand

The company says its new Favorite Day products will help consumers indulge themselves

Disney to close 20 percent of its North American stores

The company is embracing the accelerated shift to online shopping

Consumers will continue to pay more for delivery during the pandemic, analysts say

Mid-sized retailers are struggling to offset losses from an increase in shipping costs on their end

Second round of stimulus checks fueled big retail spending increase in January

Spending was up 5.3 percent last month

Supermarket chain Aldi launches major U.S. expansion

The German retailer plans to open 100 additional U.S. stores in 2021

Uber buys alcohol delivery service Drizly for $1.1 billion

The ride-sharing company plans to add the service to its UberEats app

Toys 'R' Us shutters its last two U.S. stores

The brand is still alive online and in locations around the world

Costco finally decides to test curbside service

The company is late to the game but realizes that curbside is an important trend

Bed Bath & Beyond to stop selling My Pillow products

My Pillow's CEO claims it’s politics, but the retailer says it’s business

Regulators take notice as high fees for food delivery hit consumers' wallets

What will happen to food delivery when the pandemic ends?

Costco to close all photo centers next month

Members can still access the services previously offered at photo centers on Costco’s website

Big retailers increasingly don’t want your returned items

Many issue refunds without taking back the merchandise

Bed Bath & Beyond to close 43 stores by end of February

The company isn’t going away, but it is shifting much of its emphasis to digital marketing

Macy’s to reportedly close 45 more stores this year

The retailer is focusing on unproductive mall locations

Dunkin’ Brands rolls out coffee with 20 percent more caffeine

After 2020, the restaurant chain says Americans need an energy boost

Streamlined menus, clean-label food, and umami top the food prediction list for 2021

There are plenty of shifts awaiting foodies as COVID-19 continues to reshape our world

This year, retailers are more flexible about returned gifts

The process will go more smoothly if you have a gift receipt or packing slip

Wandering glances while shopping can lead to unplanned purchases

Experts encourage consumers to stay focused while doing their holiday shopping this year

Bankruptcy court approves sale of Ann Taylor, Lane Bryant, and other brands

A private equity firm plans to operate at least 900 of the 1,500 current locations

Restaurants are in economic ‘free-fall,’ industry group warns

Your favorite eatery might not be there when things get back to normal

UPS asks drivers to halt package pickups from several major retailers

The carrier is reportedly trying to ensure that it doesn’t commit to more than it can handle

Stein Mart gets rescued from bankruptcy and will return as an online venture

Retailers are continuing to reap the benefits of taking their business online

Giving older kids an experience instead of a material gift can lead to more happiness

Recent study findings come at the perfect time for consumers to start their holiday shopping

Here are some of the restaurants that will be open on Thanksgiving Day

Most of them offer takeout and delivery service

Guitar Center declares bankruptcy

The music retailer hit a sour note during the pandemic

Chicken prices continue to rise during the pandemic

Size matters when it comes to price -- the bigger the part, the more expensive it is

Beyond Meat reveals new generation of plant-based burgers to release in 2021

The company says its two new products taste even better and provide more nutritional value

Costco will no longer make exceptions to its mask rule

Shoppers medically unable to wear a mask must wear a face shield

Toy experts offer advice for holiday shopping

The pandemic may pose challenges for parents looking for the most popular toys

Chipotle to open first ‘digital kitchen’ to cater to coronavirus trends

The new restaurant won’t have a dining room

Pizza Hut rolls out its first plant-based meat pizza

Meat alternative products continue to grow in both popularity and affordability

Ulta Beauty to open smaller stores inside U.S. Target locations

Target and Ulta are both aiming to reach new guests during the pandemic

Uber ratchets up grocery delivery amid promising early results

The company made over $1 billion on deliveries in the second quarter

Consumers dependence on food carryout and delivery continues to grow

A new study shows that more older and younger consumers are turning to these services during the pandemic

Mall owner, restaurant chain declare bankruptcy

CBL & Assoc. Properties and Friendly’s have sought Chapter 11 protection

Best Buy begins offering some Black Friday deals

The company has also released its Black Friday ad circular

Brands are working as much magic as they can during this pandemic-plagued Halloween season

Tricks include virtual immersive experiences at Disney and treat recipes for kids to make at home

Online shopping expected to grow 33 percent in November and December

That means consumers would be wise to do their shopping early

Toys'R'Us reveals its hot toys for the 2020 holidays

Timing is everything when it comes to buying toys, so consumers would be smart to shop early

Panera Bread adds pizza to its menu

The restaurant chain said it's seen a dramatic increase in delivery and takeout orders during the pandemic

Consumers increasingly turn to convenience stores during the pandemic

Grab-and-go and delivery are filling the void left by shuttered restaurants

Target ups the ante on safety precautions at its stores

Line-skipping and contactless checkout anywhere within the store are two of the new pluses

Home Depot rolls out Black Friday deals

Like other retailers, Home Depot is getting an early start

The turkey industry’s Thanksgiving outlook looks different this year

The National Turkey Federation says not to worry, it's making sure there are plenty of turkey products available for consumers

Instacart partners with ALDI to give SNAP participants access to grocery delivery services

Through the program, SNAP recipients can get same-day grocery delivery and pickup

Google, Amazon, and Samsung among the ‘most motivating’ brands

An analytics firm has ranked companies on their ability to influence consumer behavior

Coke to ‘retire’ its iconic TaB diet drink

Several other Coke brands are also disappearing from store shelves

Consumers are stressed out by low supplies of fresh food in grocery stores, survey finds

Researchers say the way consumers buy food is changing in the midst of the pandemic

Kroger introduces AI tool to plan meals based on what’s in your fridge

Chefbot analyzes a photo of your food and offers recipe suggestions

Dollar General to launch new ‘Popshelf’ stores aimed at suburban shoppers

Most items sold will cost $5 or less

Ruby Tuesday files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy

The financial hardships faced by the dining chain have only been made worse by the pandemic

Eighty-five percent of consumers are paying more for groceries during COVID-19 pandemic, survey finds

Fewer promotions are contributing to higher bills at checkout

Bed Bath & Beyond launches same-day delivery option ahead of holidays

Not all zip codes are included, but 90 percent of the country is covered

Colder temperatures this fall and winter may take a toll on restaurants

The loss of outdoor seating may be the final blow for some establishments

Mars Food changes Uncle Ben’s brand name to Ben’s Original

The old brand’s name was viewed as racially insensitive

Party City to reduce Halloween pop-up stores by 91 percent due to the COVID-19 pandemic

Online retail continues to grow and is taking a bite out of brick-and-mortar sales

Kroger speeds up its use of AI to counter checkout losses

The accuracy of computer-vision is still improving, and shoppers should be prepared for false-positives

Spending on cleaning supplies has risen 34 percent in the last six months

Here’s why you still have a hard time finding hand sanitizer

Nearly 100,000 restaurants have closed in the last six months

Chances are, your favorite eatery could be one of them

Retail chain Century 21 files for bankruptcy and gets ready to close its doors

Consumers can still shop for items in-store and online

Target adds 600 new items to its Good & Gather brand

The company’s addition of food items has become a plus as consumers consolidate their shopping

Macy’s future leans toward smaller stores outside of malls

Shoppers may be returning to department stores, but one analyst says their recovery has stalled

PayPal rolling out short-term, interest-free payment plan

‘Pay in 4’ may be a good alternative to credit cards and payday loans

KFC to stop using ‘It’s Finger Lickin’ Good’ slogan during pandemic

The company admits that tagline is ‘a bit off’ due to current health concerns

Noom auto-renewal charges lead to spike in consumer complaints

As with many subscription surprises, the devil is in the details

USPS issues are forcing the VA to find other ways of shipping medications to vets

The organization says critical medications have been delayed over the last year

Diners are slowly returning to restaurants despite health and safety concerns

Restaurants need to be patient and listen more advises one food industry expert

Pizza Hut to permanently close 300 restaurants

The closings are the result of the bankruptcy of the chain’s largest franchisees

Pizza restaurants coping with a growing pepperoni shortage

The popularity of pizza during the pandemic is creating supply issues

Stein Mart files for bankruptcy and becomes the latest pandemic retail victim

The company says it will close most, if not all, of its stores

Kroger is expanding its digital footprint by developing a 'marketplace' with 50,000 third-party items

Toys, seasonal items, housewares, and international foods will all be available

Whole grain food labeling is confusing to many consumers, study finds

Researchers say that labeling needs to be clearer so consumers can make healthier choices

The ‘Hot Retailers’ are the ones that best responded to COVID-19

Companies with strong delivery and e-commerce capabilities dominate an annual list

Back-to-school shoppers take new approach to getting school supplies due to COVID-19

A new study suggests that PPE and video conferencing tools are finding their way onto shopping lists

DoorDash to enter grocery market with new virtual convenience stores

The DashMart ‘stores’ will be available in select markets through the DoorDash app

Bankrupt JCPenney will reportedly merge with Belks

A published report says Belks’ owner has submitted the highest bid

Target to close on Thanksgiving due to coronavirus pandemic

The retailer is adjusting its plans for safety reasons

Ann Taylor parent company files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy

The apparel chain is pulling back on locations and closing all of its plus-size Catherines stores

Walgreens and DoorDash join forces to offer home delivery

Customers can get 20 percent off to try out the service

CVS, Target to require shoppers to wear a mask in stores

The new mandate builds on local and state requirements in many areas

New York & Company parent company files for bankruptcy

It’s possible that all stores will be closed

Bed Bath & Beyond is closing 200 more stores

The company reports that sales in the latest quarter plunged nearly 50 percent

Uber jumps into the crowded grocery delivery field

The rideshare king wants another piece of the consumer shift driven by the pandemic

Macy’s to cut 4,000 jobs due to COVID-19

The retailer is attempting to lower its cost base

GNC files for bankruptcy due to COVID-19 and declining sales

The retailer will close up to 1,200 of its stores

Sam’s Club rolls out curbside delivery nationwide

The service will offer flexible times and availability to all membership levels as a starting point

Starbucks is closing 400 stores in the next 18 months

Other changes implemented because of the coronavirus may be permanent

Best Buy is lifting its appointment-only shopping policy

A limited number of customers will be allowed in 800 stores starting Monday

Record number of retailers expected to close this year

A research firm says apparel and department stores will be hit particularly hard by the pandemic and recession

Hertz files for bankruptcy protection

The rental car firm says it needs help to get through the steep drop-off in travel

Johnson & Johnson to stop selling talc powder products in North America

The company is facing lawsuits claiming the product causes cancer

J.C. Penney files for bankruptcy due to COVID-19

The retailer will close some of its stores while it attempts to stay in business

Consumers gain newfound interest in meat alternatives due to food shortages

Will red meat return to the grocery shelves anytime soon? One distributor says not before Memorial Day

Wendy’s removes hamburgers from menu in some locations due to meat shortages

Fast-food restaurants and supermarkets are feeling the strain of lower supplies

Costco will require all shoppers to wear masks in its stores

The new rule goes into effect on Monday

Tyson Foods Chairman says ‘food supply is breaking’

Meat processing plants have temporarily suspended operations in the midst of the health crisis

Walgreens to give first responders 30 percent off on April 25

The usual restrictions apply, and there’s limits on things that have been hoarded during the pandemic

BJ’s Wholesale Club offering perks for first responders and healthcare workers

The chain has also set up shopping hours for the elderly

Experts call for children's drinks to have clearer labeling

It’s important for parents to be able to easily determine healthy choices for kids

Carvana brings take-out service to car-buying

From ordering a car to having it delivered, the service can take the hassle out of getting your next ride

Consumers feel more immediate happiness after spending money on experiences

Experts say spending on material things may not produce the same feeling

Pier 1 Imports files for bankruptcy

The company will finish closing 450 stores during the proceedings as it attempts to reorganize

7-Eleven is testing a cashierless store in Texas

The concept is similar to Amazon Go stores

Dollar General to start selling CBD products at some stores

Select stores in Tennessee and Kentucky will sell the products, with more stores to be added in 2020

How accurate are product reviews? A new study says many are woefully inaccurate

Communicating with companies is starting to shift to social media

A.C. Moore to close all store locations

The retailer said it will reopen some stores under the Michael’s name next year

Target now offers same-day shipping on its app

The retailer wants to help customers ‘get what they need quickly’ as the holidays approach

Nike splits with Amazon to sell its product line on its own online platform

The direct-to-consumer parade is still in its infancy, but there’s plenty of companies already making the move

CVS will close another 22 retail pharmacies in early 2020

The move follows the closing of 46 stores earlier this year

Spotify is offering subscribers a free Google Home Mini smart speaker

Here’s how new and existing subscribers can claim a mini speaker

Best Buy to offer free next-day delivery over the holidays

Retailers are speeding up their delivery times in an effort to compete with Amazon

New study finds most consumers prefer experiences over things

Previously, that was thought to largely be a millennial thing

Senators ask the FDA to pick up its pace on regulative CBD products

Lawmakers say the agency’s reaction time is ‘chronically slow’

Target releases its list of the top toys for the holiday season

The retailer hopes its Disney tie-in will give it an edge with kids

Impossible Burgers now available in grocery stores

The meatless patties have been cleared by the FDA to be sold across the U.S.

Over a quarter of food delivery drivers take a bite of customers’ food

A survey finds that many drivers just can’t resist the temptation

Study finds many brands leave consumers ‘upset and disappointed’

Researchers say disappointed consumers can be very unforgiving

Kroger partnering with Ocado to build high-tech fulfillment centers

At the warehouses, robots will help humans pack about 600 grocery items per hour

Toys ‘R’ Us to open new stores ahead of the holidays

Smaller-format stores will boast a ‘highly engaging retail experience’

Online retailers now have to collect state sales tax

But B&H Photo has launched a promotion to refund the tax to customers

Target to offer teacher discounts on school supplies

Teachers can get 15 percent off school supplies and essentials during the week of July 13

Target announces online sale to compete with Amazon’s Prime Day

The retailer’s Deal Days sale will also run July 15 and 16

7-Eleven will now deliver to select public locations

Consumers no longer have to be at home to get a delivery

Poor customer service can impact more than just those who experience it

Researchers suggest it could affect how consumers tip their servers

Amazon customers can return purchases at all Kohl’s stores

Companies are expanding the pilot program that began in 2017

Burger King offering the Impossible Burger at select locations

The chain could eventually launch the meat-free burger at locations nationwide

San Francisco considering banning cashless businesses, including Amazon Go

Proponents of the ban say cashless stores are discriminatory toward low-income consumers

Gap to separate into two public companies

Old Navy will become a standalone entity

A luxury clothing line faces backlash for advertising that its workers are in prison

Merging high fashion with labor rights isn’t easy. Can consumers trust a brand’s attempt at transparency?

Toys ‘R’ Us operating under new Tru Kids brand

Tru Kids has rights to the Toys ‘R’ Us brand and is led by former Toys ‘R’ Us executives

New consumer loyalty study shows consumers expect more from brands

‘Business as usual’ and ‘research as usual,’ doesn’t cut it in today’s brandscape

J.C. Penney to stop selling home appliances

The move is part of a larger home department reorganization

Biodiversity and sustainability are two top food trends for 2019

The Winter Fancy Food Show displays new ways of eating and snacking

Research suggests retailers aren’t listening to consumers

The auto industry may be on a similar path

Starbucks expands delivery partnership with Uber Eats

More than 2,000 Starbucks locations across the U.S. will soon deliver

Walgreens teaming up with FedEx for new prescription delivery service

The pharmacy chain is trying to stay ahead of Amazon, which recently bought an online pharmacy startup

The great Christmas tree shortage -- fact or fiction?

The best deals are on the trees that aren’t as dense as the storybook kind

Study: Half of online clothing purchases get returned

Poor fit is the main reason for returns

Target to hold one-day gift card sale this weekend

This Sunday, customers can get Target gift cards for 10 percent off

Barnes & Noble said to be looking for a buyer

Despite Amazon’s imposing posture, smaller indie booksellers are actually making a go of it

Mattress Firm to close 700 stores in an effort to survive

​The retailer has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy

Coca-Cola may partner with cannabis firm to make CBD-infused drinks

Soda companies could profit off the cannabis and wellness trends

Lowe’s is closing all 99 Orchard Supply Hardware stores

The parent company says it plans to focus on its core business

Costco now accepts Apple Pay at all of its U.S. locations

The contactless payment system is also coming to Costco’s gas stations

Kroger launches free grocery delivery service for orders over $35

Kroger Ship will focus on helping customers stock up on non-perishables and household goods

Drunk online shopping costs Americans billions, survey finds

Nearly half of Americans shop online while drunk

Baby formula industry touts product benefits while concerns about lead and heavy metal contamination are overlooked

New findings suggest that many baby foods contain heavy metals and other toxins

IHOP teams with DoorDash to begin home delivery

The new service is starting at 300 of the chain's locations

CVS introduces delivery for prescriptions

The drugstore chain hopes to beat Amazon at its own game

White House renews tariffs on China

The on-again, off-again trade dispute appears to be back on

Häagen-Dazs offers free ice cream in effort to save bees

The company wants to bring awareness to the struggling insects

Starbucks wants to improve its drive thru strategy

The company is hoping to jumpstart slowing sales growth by speeding up its drive thru service

Starbucks apologizes after two black men arrested at Philadelphia shop

Video of the encounter sparked social media outrage

Rural states see dollar signs in Obama-era law that legalized hemp

Alaska is the latest state that is poised to allow farmers to grow hemp

Toys 'R' Us closing its U.S. stores

The company was unable to find a buyer or restructure its massive debt

Trump supports internet sales tax

Treasury Secretary tells Congress that the administration supports uniform taxation

Food stamp recipients could see fresh food replaced with boxes

The Trump administration’s proposed reform of SNAP would drastically change how low-income Americans receive food benefits

Amazon kicks off acquisition of Whole Foods with free two-hour delivery for Prime members

Everything from produce and meat to flowers and alcohol will be available

Arby's completes acquisition of Buffalo Wild Wings

Customers at both restaurants could see some changes

California treasurer proposes marijuana-friendly state bank

Legal marijuana retailers have been spotted paying their taxes with huge sums of cash

Lawsuits allege chicken companies conspired to drive up prices

Two big food distributors have filed complaints against Tyson Foods and other poultry suppliers

Kroger moves to implement its own cashless checkout system

Scan, Bag, Go is similar to the Amazon Go concept

Toys 'R' Us to close 180 stores

Company executives say the move will help the business reorganize and return to profitability

LG increasing the price of its washing machines in response to new tariff

One economist says the decision by the Trump Administration could have unintended consequences

Walmart is closing 63 Sam's Club locations

Some employees say they got no warning

California authorities, feds grapple with legal weed and safe driving

California highway patrol investigate marijuana's breathalyzer equivalent, DEA wants to scrap it altogether

Give Back Box helps consumers make donations in old boxes

Here’s one use for all those unused Amazon boxes

A counterfeit iPhone charger is a dangerous gift

Consumer group warns knock-offs are a fire hazard

After-Christmas shopping may yield the best bargains

Experts say stores want to quickly clear their inventory

Holiday gift ideas for every member of the family

Gift idea inspiration for mom, dad, kids, and even the family pet

Holiday toys not to give based on recent recalls

Consumers should be sure not to give kids these toys this holiday season

Study finds Walmart.com closing the price gap with Amazon

Experts say consumers can find notably lower prices on certain products

Deals on holiday electronics may be thanks to child labor

Consumers urged to consider brands’ child labor ties when shopping

Picking the best gift card this holiday season

Giving a gift card can guarantee that the recipient gets something they want

Group finds many consumer products still contain toxic chemicals

Knowing which products pose a risk can help consumers avoid health problems

Tips for staying safe while making online purchases

Use a single credit card and watch out for phishing attacks

Black Friday competition heating up this week

Consumers already being offered sizable discounts

Consumer group claims excessive lead levels in two fidget spinner models

Target argues the products aren’t toys and don’t have to meet lead standards

Nix the Black Friday madness or holiday shopping stress

These apps take the work out of scouting out the best deals

Testing technology’s worst innovations: The UberEats/McDonald’s partnership

Uber wants to deliver McDonald’s to your door, but should they?

Millennials shop healthier, spend more

New research sheds light on where millennials shop and what they buy

Consumers less likely to shop retail stores this Black Friday

Survey finds consumers are more likely to shop online -- and not just on peak shopping days

The best online shopping sites to treat yourself

Holiday ‘self-gifting’ is on the rise–here’s where to find a gift for yourself

Holiday shoppers: mark your calendars for these discount dates

Shopping hacks to help you score the best deals

Millennial food trends: home cooking, probiotics, and more

How millennials are changing the U.S. food landscape

Amazon’s top toys for the 2017 holiday season

The online retailer says these toys will be on every kid’s wishlist

Small scale solar collectors power growing number of consumer products

Consumers can cook food and recharge their phones in the great outdoors

How drinking beer can help raise your spirits

Researchers say a chemical found in beer stimulates the brain’s pleasure center

Pregnant women and children urged to avoid toxic flame retardants

The CPSC says many products contain these chemicals

Consumers rate Amazon highest for online grocery shopping

Walmart comes in at a close second

How 'corpsumers' are changing the way people shop

Experts say these consumers value a company's ethics over its products

How 'going green' can help companies attract Millennial customers

Report finds Millennials look to companies to help them solve environmental problems

Toys "R" Us files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy

The company says stores will still be open for the upcoming holiday shopping season

Report finds consumers concerned about 'fake’ food

Experts say both consumers and food companies are hurt by counterfeit goods

Broiler chicken producers launch industry-wide welfare standards

The National Chicken Council creates informational resource for consumers who want to know more about that they're eating

Toys"R"Us unveils annual list of must-have toys

This year's list features a new version of Hatchimals, one of last year's most sought-after toys

Police departments offer places to complete online transactions

One app enlisting law enforcement to make meetings safer

Amazon plans big price cuts at Whole Foods Markets

The Amazon Prime program will become Whole Foods' discount program

Scientists create smart label that can detect if food has gone bad

The paper-based technology could one day help consumers find out when to throw out food and cosmetics

Kohl's looks to expand online sales while reformatting its stores

The company is opening a new e-commerce fulfillment center and expanding online ordering

One in three consumers unknowingly enrolled in auto pay

CreditCards.com survey shows the importance of reading the fine print

New mechanism helps determine if a product is the real deal or a counterfeit

Researchers say the tool is extremely accurate and has verified $14 million worth of goods

Pepsi or Coke? Why your answer could affect the happiness of your relationship

Researchers say couples who prefer different brands could face challenges down the road

ALDI partners with Instacart to bring groceries to customers' doorsteps

The move comes as Amazon readies itself to enter the market

Up to 160 Applebee's and IHOP restaurants to close down

Lagging sales at underperforming restaurants was cited as the main reason

Dunkin' Donuts may shorten its name

New California outlet will be branded simply as Dunkin'

Beware of counterfeit solar eclipse glasses

Here's how to tell you're buying the real thing

Dunkin' Donuts to simplify menu by eliminating many breakfast items

Officials say the move will increase efficiency, but some consumers aren't happy about it

Starbucks to close all Teavana stores

Executive say lagging sales and declining mall foot traffic led to the decision

Survey shows that most Americans want origin information back on meat labels

The regulations were repealed in 2015 following challenges from Canada and Mexico

Sears will sell Kenmore products on Amazon

Company sees it as a way to significantly expand its reach

Safeway to pay $3 million to settle drug probe

Company was tardy in reporting missing or stolen drugs from pharmacies

Critics hit Amazon's Whole Foods takeover

Antitrust and labor issues stir discontent; retail analysts skeptical

Target retries its hand at curbside pick-up

After shutting down a similar service, the company is rolling out a new iteration in Minnesota

Gymboree closing 350 stores

Company says move will help it emerge from bankruptcy

Online retailer Brandless offers one-price shopping

It's sort of the natural extension of generic and store-brand retailing

QVC to merge with Home Shopping Network in $2.1 billion deal

Officials hope the newly formed QVC Group will be more competitive in the retail market

Egg prices plummet to lowest levels in over a decade

Experts point to expanding flocks and overproduction as the main cause

Tips for sidestepping the dangers of flip-flops

Flip-flops aren’t a good fit for every activity, experts say

Walgreens and Rite Aid abandon merger plans

Instead, Walgreens will buy nearly 2,200 Rite Aid stores

8 best budget-friendly sunscreens of 2017

The EWG names top green-rated sunscreens for families

Survey shows consumers prefer fast food to full-service restaurants

As menu prices go up, satisfaction goes down

How much does it cost to feed a teen?

Many parents spend big trying to keep their hungry teen happily fed, new research finds

A supermarket's private-label wine could be a good choice

These days, you don't have to know a lot about wine to take home a good bottle

Prepared food moving towards meat-free, environmentally friendly

Consumers have developed a taste for meat-free and ethical food options, industry experts say

Rising chicken prices linked to breeding problems

Hatching rates are at their lowest level since early 2007

Civility at a fast food restaurant

Unfortunately, it's almost like spotting a unicorn

Jet.com drops Kirkland Signature products after being acquired by Walmart

Walmart hopes to boost its own store brands instead of its competitors'

Best Buy to offer 'try before you buy' rental option

The program aims to cut losses on items that are often bought and immediately returned

ALDI increases expansion efforts with $3.6 billion investment

The move will expand and create 2,500 stores nationwide and add 25,000 new jobs

Payless announces second wave of store closings

Up to 408 locations are on the chopping block, with 112 already dead in the water

How much should your wedding gift cost?

Experts say it's best to be financially responsible and give what you can afford

Graduation spending to reach record high in 2017

A survey shows total spending will exceed $5.6 billion

Senators introduce bill to make banking easier for marijuana businesses

Conflicts between federal, state laws hamper growers, retailers

USDA issues warning to Pittsburgh-area restaurant for serving raw horsemeat

The eatery could face prosecution in the future for a repeat offense

Independent restaurants are beginning to outperform big national chains

Experts say shifting consumer values and online reviews are causing the change

Will a new set of golf clubs really help your game?

Most coaches advise taking a few lessons before shelling out big bucks for clubs

7-Eleven introduces candy bar-covered donut

It has caramel icing and chocolate drizzle too

It's a mattress in a box, not a collapsing office tower

Traditional mattresses are expensive to ship and sometimes contaminated with formaldehyde

Wegmans, Publix, Trader Joe's are consumers' favorites, survey finds

Walmart finished dead last in all categories

Three simple gift ideas for Mother's Day

The third one might be the one most appreciated

What to watch out for when buying flowers this Mothers' Day

Consumers who want to buy local arrangements should keep these tips in mind

Where can you go to buy eyeglasses online?

We look at a few of the top options according to consumers

Pizza Hut to invest $130 million to revamp restaurants

The company is hoping to turn around its slumping sales

Why paying users to write reviews of products is probably a bad idea

A study finds that well-connected users don't want to be seen as corporate shills to their peers

Angie's List merging with HomeAdvisor

Two big home improvement sites get together

The return of the milkman

Specialty dairies will deliver bottled milk to your doorstep again

Chipotle's latest crisis: its payment system has been hacked

Details are scarce, but the company says it will notify customers who may have been affected

Study finds seafood mislabeling at six Washington, DC restaurants

But researchers say the discrepancies were mostly minor

CVS pledges to remove harmful chemicals from store brand beauty products

The retailer is stepping up its efforts to appeal to health-conscious consumers

What attributes matter to consumers when buying food products?

Researchers say products that use clear labels like 'non-GMO' have an advantage over competitors

hhgregg fails to find buyer, begins liquidating

It's the latest big retailer to succumb to the retail tsunami

Payless files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in attempt to reorganize

The company announced that it will close 400 stores across the U.S.

Supermarkets adapt to meet changing consumer demands

Here's what consumers say they appreciate most

Panera Bread sold to German group

JAB Holdings adds Panera to its growing portfolio of U.S. food companies

Johnson & Johnson Vision Care settles price-fixing suit

Maryland complaint alleged the company kept contact lens prices high

Payless steps towards bankruptcy, reports say

Retailers are having trouble meeting their first-quarter goals as a rough patch gets rougher

Costco looks towards home delivery under new partnership

The company has begun using the Shipt grocery delivery service in select markets

German twins Aldi, Lidl shaking up U.S. grocery business

Home delivery hasn't taken off, but the German discounters are eating supermarkets' lunch

eBay to promise 'Guaranteed Delivery' on 20 million items

New program will go into effect during the summer

Medical or recreational marijuana will be legalized in all states by 2021, firm predicts

Several states in the Deep South are changing the way they regulate marijuana

J.C. Penney lists 138 stores it will close this spring

The company says the closings will let it concentrate on more profitable locations

Consumer Reports warns of ineffective carbon monoxide detectors

The magazine found three detectors that failed critical tests

Sticky Fingers gang boosted merchandise in 28 states, sold it online, NY charges

Kingpin dispatched crews to boost specific items that were in demand online, indictments charge

Caribou Coffee cuts artificial ingredients from its products

The company pays more to do business but hopes to attract health-conscious customers

What Millennials are eating

New research suggests Millennials tend to opt for healthy snacks as meal replacements

Bottled water eclipses soda as most bought beverage in U.S.

Americans drank 12.8 billion gallons of bottled water in 2016

Staples closing more stores after disappointing earnings

Consumers are increasingly buying office supplies online

Costco memberships going up by $5

Warehouse retailer hikes fee in wake of declining earnings

McDonald's latest 'new' idea: hamburgers

The fast-food pioneer wants to try winning back customers who have strayed

Abercrombie & Fitch closing stores as sales decline again

Sales have been off for four straight quarters as the chain tries to rebrand itself

Animal rights groups lose a round in egg label case

Appeals court says federal agencies have the authority to handle the issue on a case-by-case basis

Wendy's installing ordering kiosks at 1,000 locations

Company says franchise owners want to cut labor costs, improve service

Is time running out for hhgregg?

The electronics and appliances retailer has been bleeding money for years

Keurig pays $5.8 million for delays in reporting safety defects

Federal officials 'reluctantly' accept the decision, saying the penalty may be too slight

Toy Industry Association announces top toys and games of the year

Gender-based toy awards weren't given out at this year's event

How demand for dog walkers could outstrip demand for teachers in coming years

Researchers say demographic changes could affect spending patterns over the next decade

College student out to disrupt the textbook industry

Ecommerce site arranges student-to-student used book transactions

Poll suggests consumers are forcing businesses to be more political

Consumers like companies that reflect their values

ALDI announces plan to remodel and upgrade stores to appeal to more shoppers

The company will invest $1.6 billion for building and product upgrades

Domino's now has its own wedding registry

Couples can register for pizza-related gifts to enjoy before, during, and after the wedding

Ivanka Trump brand is shown the exit by Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus may follow

The retailer says the decision is based solely on the brand's performance

Trouble on Main Street: retailer bankruptcies skyrocket

The Deal reports bankruptcies nearly doubled in 2016

How much couples are spending to get married in 2017

Average wedding costs have topped 35k as couples strive to create an unforgettable experience

Study finds toxic material in fast food packages

Environmental group says chemicals can get into food

iSpring agrees to drop 'Made In USA' claims

The FTC said the claims were not true

Walgreens-Rite Aid merger put on hold

Regulators have put the proposed deal under a microscope

What would a 20% import tax on Mexico mean for consumers?

The cost of a lot of things could go up

Social media doesn’t influence Millennials’ purchasing choices, study finds

When it comes to fashion, most Millennials aren't swayed by the opinions of bloggers and influencers

Target announces new policy for removing harmful chemicals in its products

The retailer has committed to reducing harmful chemicals and investing in green chemistry

Super Bowl parties don't have to be built around alcohol

A growing sobriety movement seeks to transform the annual sports ritual

TV sets go on sale in advance of the Super Bowl

Shopping site finds prices that rival Black Friday

The most improved and biggest brand busts of 2016

The rankings show how negative news affects the way consumers see a brand

USDA proposes new rule for organic meat products

The changes would provide more humane conditions for livestock and poultry

New wearable helps users monitor their alcohol intake

The Proof wristband will send an alert to your smartphone if you've had one too many

Consumers 'window shop' on the web too

Study finds most of us visit a retailer's site the first time without buying anything

Shopper store pathway heatmaps identify opportunities

Eye tracking can help retailers understand where shoppers focus their attention

FedEx to open shipping centers in Walgreens stores

Companies say consumers will have more secure pick-up options

Is brick-and-mortar retail going down for the count?

Stores aren't going away, just the unprofitable outlets of weaker brands

Sears closing 150 more Sears, Kmart stores

Company is also spinning off Craftsman Tools line

MyPillow gets a rude awakening as the Better Business Bureau gives it an F

The BBB took issue with the pillow-maker's 'buy-one-get-one-free' offers

Smart device turns your stove off if you accidentally leave it on

The new device may help prevent home fires caused by cooking equipment

More store closings for Sears, Kmart

Parent company arranges credit line of $500 million

People often think healthy food has to be expensive, study finds

​Why consumers should think twice before believing that healthy-equals-expensive

Consumer trends that will be hot in 2017

Wearables are out, privacy is in

Target store offers sensory-friendly shopping hours for customers with autism

Participating consumers will enjoy a shopping experience with dimmer lights and no music

Whole Foods predicts these foods will be trending in 2017

Top trends include purple foods and pasta made from alternative grains

Deadline for redeeming RadioShack gift cards draws closer

Consumers have until Friday, December 2 to redeem their cards

Albertsons bucks supermarket trend by ditching self-service checkout

The chain thinks human contact trumps efficiency

Is ALDI about to take on Whole Foods?

The chain's anti-pesticide move in Europe increases speculation

PBS Kids' new tablet lets parents set screen time limits

The Playtime Pad will come preloaded with educational media and parental controls

Consumers more or less on board with drone deliveries, survey finds

The one-hour delivery part sounds good, but there are concerns about safety and reliability

Surprising new food trends expected to make a splash in 2017

Cake for breakfast? It could become popular in the coming year

Vera Bradley notifies customers it was hacked

Debit and credit card data may have been compromised

Chick-Fil-A's secret of success isn't complicated

Nice guys do finish first

Mondelez bringing Milka Oreo bars to the U.S.

The company failed in its recent bid to acquire Hershey

How Nordstrom is targeting Millennials

A more youthful social media presence may help replenish its customer base

It's not a dream: My Pillow hit for $1.1 million in unpaid NY sales tax

Someone blew the whistle on the pillow promoter and earned $221,000

Kids' food choices influenced heavily by advertisements

Researchers say commercials influence kids' brain activity

What 'camping' means to a millennial

Wi-Fi, stoves, and amenities are making camping a more leisurely experience

Feds examine complaints about WEN by Chaz Dean hair treatments

Consumers say the potion makes their hair fall out and causes itching and rashes

Retailers with wi-fi hotspots find they need to block porn

McDonalds acts, Starbucks considers it

Portable AC unit uses gel-filled ice pack to cool small spaces

It's compact, eco-friendly and costs just a penny a day to run

$400 million on its way to e-book buyers

Publishers and Apple paying twice the amount lost by consumers

Whirlpool partners with Innit for its new connected ovens

Innit software creates an interactive cooking experience with no guesswork

Millennials are more frugal than you might think

Nearly 2 in 3 don’t own a credit card, survey finds

Keurig Kold loses its fizz, goes flat

Company pulls the plug on the expensive in-home drink-maker

Chick-fil-A, Subway top fast food poll

McDonald's and Burger King finish last in annual consumer survey

Craigslist app's new 'Safe Meeting Places' feature aims to make transactions safer

Users can see safe public places to meet, such as police stations and coffee shops

Flower sharing service aims to help brides save money and reduce floral waste

Bloomerent allows event hosts to share centerpieces with another nearby event

Sports Authority closing all stores, liquidating

The sprawling chain has abandoned efforts to reorganize

Hills Bros. introduces compostable K-cup coffee

The company's new pods are guaranteed to biodegrade

Survey: bloggers now have a bigger influence than celebrities

Blog and social media posts triumph over traditional advertising

Whole Foods commits to slow-growing chickens, better living conditions

Modern chickens have become overgrown monsters, animal welfare groups say

Starbucks taking a customized approach to complaints

Customers complaining about changes to rewards program are getting a personal response

I Do Now I Don't website gives used wedding rings a second chance

The online Marketplace is a win-win for both buyers and sellers, says the site's co-founder

Aldi plans to target health-conscious consumers by expanding their organic-food options

Industry observers say this could challenge other low-cost organic food retailers

Study: consumers spend millions on impulse buys

It might seem like a small amount, but it can add up

“Clean” eating may be 2016's biggest food trend

Dietitians also see a bigger role for seeds in the American diet

Amazon-UPS ties may be fraying

Consumers not thrilled with any of the current delivery options

Seven things to wait until the day after Christmas to buy

Score the best deals by knowing which products will feature the best markdowns

Macaccino: the world’s first roasted maca beverage

A coffee-alternative that promises the perks of coffee without the jitters

FDA approves GMO salmon

The modified salmon grow faster and eat less

T-Mobile's Binge On plan has a downside

The plan isn't exactly in keeping with Net Neutrality principles

Panera Bread moving to free-range meat and cage-free eggs

Growing trend likely to bring big changes to food industry

Sales down, debit card fraud up at Walmart

What's the best way to safeguard your debit card? Don't have one

Coke from a Keurig? Yep, it's called Keurig Kold

Two years in the making, the new Keurig spits out carbonated drinks at home

7-Eleven jumps on the single-cup coffee bandwagon

But environmental concerns mount over these disposable coffee containers

“As Seen on TV” TeleBrands pays $550,000 to settle fraud complaints

Also agrees to stop aggressive upselling, and hire actual humans to talk to customers

Why food costs could be headed even higher

Food manufacturers are facing growing problems getting their products to market

Dollar Shave Club -- nice close shave or a real skinning?

Is this even worth talking about? No, but small purchases add up so here goes

Congress may repeal country-of-origin food labeling law

Pro-consumer law runs afoul of the World Trade Organization

Keurig compromises on crass K-cup “copyright” control

Keurig 2.0 DRM restrictions remain, but reusable “My K-cups” will return

5 solar energy companies to help homeowners cut costs without cutting the lights

All 5 offer financing options to reduce or eliminate up-front costs

Eight emerging trends in nutrition bars

They're not just for athletes and mountain climbers anymore

Customers boycott Hershey's in retaliation for British chocolate import ban

Hershey's might beat the competition in a court of law, but not in the court of public opinion

Ticketmaster agrees to make paperless ticketing restrictions plainer

Missouri reaches agreement that affects consumers nationwide

Cheap chocolate candy? Might not be chocolate after all

Not all cacao-based “chocolate” products are created equal. Here's how to tell them apart

Three food trends turning the industry upside down

Companies scramble to adapt

5 online flower delivery services offering Valentine specials

Before selecting one, check them out using our reviews

Guess what? UPS doesn't like you either

Big Brown will start charging more to deliver to residential addresses

GNC, Target, Walmart, Walgreens selling bogus herbal supplements, NY charges

DNA tests found only 21% of tested supplements contained what the labels promised

Naked Wines hopes to change the way you buy wine

In exchange for monthly investments, customers get quality wine at a discount

Real chocolate or compound chocolate? We won't get fooled again

Another reason to check the ingredients before you buy candy

Knowing store policies will make post-Christmas returns easier

Here are the return policies of 5 major retailers

Freedom Stores slammed for exploiting military servicemembers

The company is accused of using illegal tactics to collect consumer debts

Here's a super-easy way to get around Keurig 2.0 DRM restrictions

Your old pods and K-cups don't work in Keurig 2.0 machines, but now you can fix that

Buried in a blizzard? Here's a five-dollar emergency heat source for your car

Scaled up, this can also provide emergency heat for a fireplace-free home

Paying more doesn't always get you higher quality

Consumers must dig deeper to learn what makes good value

How to get more shaves from your razor blades

You're probably replacing blades more than you should

When is a service dog not a service dog?

The simplest answer: when it doesn't act like one

Keurig competitors crack company's DRM code

This is why your old K-cups won't work in new Keurig machines

Court rules: Grove Square Coffee pods misled consumers and retailers

Water-soluble instant coffee and brewed coffee are not the same thing

Feds say USA Discounters scammed military consumers; refunds pending

CFPB: Stores tricked service members into paying for legal protections they didn't need

Triclosan is becoming the scourge of the month; Colgate defends it

Consumer groups putting pressure on retailers to dump products containing the chemical

New Jersey sues "As Seen on TV" promoter

Our own readers' complaints about Telebrands sound suspiciously similar

Neiman Marcus sued over Last Call

Lawsuit claims items were never sold in genuine Neiman Marcus stores

Depend wants you to "Drop Your Pants" to reduce the stigma of incontinence

"Underwareness" combines ad campaign with charity drive

Rich people don't shop at “rich-people stores”

Instead, you'll find them at Costco, Home Depot and Lowe's

Non-disparagement clauses: a new way to get nothing for something

Disreputable businesses want you to sit down and shut up. They think this is a way to do it.

Does online grocery shopping threaten supermarkets?

Consumers who shop online appear to shun impulse buys

Hobby Lobby misled customers with "sale" prices, NY charges

The company advertised steep discounts but didn't deliver

Walmart's four-card limit: consolidate your gift cards!

It's listed in the Terms and Conditions, but not very easy to find

Walmart to require three-digit security codes for in-store purchases

What helps protect Walmart might also help endanger its customers

Harris-Teeter introduces USDA-certified "very tender" beef

The guaranteed-tender cuts are aged 14 days

Oatmeal in a Keurig machine? General Mills thinks so

It may be a hard sell. After all, oatmeal is already pretty easy to make

Winn-Dixie wins ruling against Florida discount stores

Competitors in the same shopping center can't sell too many "groceries"

Sally Beauty customers: beware the latest credit card hacking

KrebsOnSecurity discovers 282,000 stolen cards for sale

Kroger, Safeway nix genetically modified salmon

Supermarket chains say their ban will stick regardless of what the FDA does

Keurig 2.0 machines to feature RFID-limited K-cups

Will coffee drinkers be stupid enough to fall for this? Stay tuned

Fitbit wearers itching for relief

Rash and burns afflict fitness fans wearing the activity trackers

GPS-assisted grocery shopping: for people too incompetent to be grocery shopping anyway

No independent adult could possibly need this

gDiapers concedes its diapers may not be so green after all

The FTC had charged the company's claims for its diapers were deceptive

Hot-weather Christmas carols for the southern hemisphere

Jack Frost never nips at your nose four days after the summer solstice

Slow shipping from the Bradford Exchange?

Beyond the usual seasonal and storm-related delays

Missing deliveries plague UPS customers

Even tracked packages can get lost

Fingerhut boots and the Vimes' Boots paradox

"Buy now pay later" credit shopping costs far more than "buy now pay now"

Beware of scammy shopping websites

One reader's cautionary tale contains valuable lessons for others

Rent-to-own is an expensive way to do either

Even in a best-case scenario, you pay far more than your purchase is worth

Marketing to men by appealing to "manfluencers"

We did not invent the word "manfluencers." They did.

Beware Paula Deen's flaky cookware

Interior and exterior coatings prone to flaking off

Consumers find leather furniture doesn't live up to its billing

Leather improves with age? Don't count on it.

How many ounces in a pint of beer?

In Michigan bars, that might be a trick question

Family history stays a mystery on Ancestry.com

Readers report poor connections to scanty databases

Gay-rights advocates try to set Barilla pasta straight

Gay-bashing proves an unsuccessful branding strategy

Dates stamped on food may not mean what you think

And most are merely voluntary, not required by law

Aloe vera juice -- is it really a good idea?

Walmart touts its "health benefits" but NIH warns it causes intestinal cancer in rats

Don't confuse store brands with generics

Both both may offer significant cost savings without sacrificing quality

Cool and inexpensive items for the dorm room

The little ones aren't the only students going back to school.

We take the MicroTouch Max hair trimmer our for a buzz

Does it work like the company says? Is it better than a regular trimmer? We found out.

Survey reveals some of consumers' favorite brands

Which food brands came in first and what is most important to consumers?

The WaxVac: We give it a test whirl

The company says it removes the excess wax from your ears. But does it really?

Buying jewelry: What you need to know

Don't know a thing about bling? Read on

The little blue box from Tiffany is fine but ...

There needs to be something in it, and that's not always the case

La-Z-Boy puts Brooke Shields in a delicate situation

The company wants you to buy other items besides recliners, but continues to frustrate customers

McDonald's wants stores open Christmas Day

Is it a modern-day Christmas Carol? Who wants hamburgers on Christmas?

Ronco Knives: Many Consumers Say They Just Don't Make The Cut

The knives look good on TV, but many say they're receiving an entirely different product

In Search of the Best Fast-Food Fish Sandwich

McDonalds, Burger King, Arby's and Wendy's battle for fish sandwich supremacy

SodaStream: Does It Really Do That?

Make soda from water in the comfort of your home? Sounds too good to be true

Consumers Question Lane Home Furniture's 'Lifetime' Warranty

Company doesn't seem eager to remedy problems with sofas, recliners

Access Over Ownership: The New Shopping Trend

Why own when you can rent? Good question, sometimes

Supermarkets vs. Drugstores: Which Is Cheaper?

The answer: It depends. It definitely pays to shop around

Buying Eyeglasses Online: Good Idea?

Quality, fit and safety standards may be a little fuzzy

If You Receive Unordered Merchandise, Consider It a Gift

Many Bottom Line Books customers confused after receiving unordered books

How Long Should You Wait For An Order Or Refund?

The Federal Trade Commission has a rule for that

Are Automatic Renewals A Deceptive Practice?

Question appears to have been asked, and answered, in 2006

What's On Your Mind? Office Depot, Marriott, Wired Plastic

Our daily look at consumer reviews

Walmart Shifts Emphasis From Chic to Cheap

As dollar stores eat into its market share, giant discounter returns to its roots

Toxic Levels of Lead in Many Thrift, Antique, and Resale Items

Researchers find very high levels of lead in toys, household items, and antique doors

Ever Wonder How Those Factory Outlets Work?

Why are they always so far out of the way?

Consumer Reports Names the Best & Worst Home Products

Magazine ranks everything from laundry detergent to toilet paper

Fed Issues New Gift Card Rules

New regulation designed to protect consumers against 'surprises'

How To Complain and Get Results

Getting mad may make you feel good but it's rarely effective

Consumers Trust Online "Word Of Mouth" Most

Making customers happy can pay big promotional dividends

Wegmans, Trader Joe's, Publix Top Consumer Reports Supermarket Survey

New tips to save big and avoid costly in-store mistakes

Obama Eyes Consumer Activists for Agency Posts

FDA, EPA targeted as needing reformers to lead

Sharper Image Closing All Stores

Company challenged Consumer Reports and lost

Wegmans, DeCicco Markets Ditch Cigarettes

Biggest cigarette tax increase ever slated for NY State

Ionic Breeze Suit Drives Sharper Image into Bankruptcy

Company challenged Consumer Reports and lost

Don't Take Mattress 'Blowouts' Lying Down

Irate consumers lose sleep over problems with mattress discount chains

New World Order: Sweatshops R Us

Worried About Product Safety? How About Worker Safety?

Retailers Fret Over "Swipeless" Credit Cards

New developments in the credit card interchange fee struggle.

How Much Caffeine In That Cup Of Decaf?

Study: Almost all decaffeinated coffee contains some caffeine.

Panasonic Offers Replacement Lamps for Some LCD TVs

As the result of a recent class action settlement, Panasonic has agreed to replace the defective lamps

The Penny's End Is Near

A Penny Saved ... Isn't Worth Much

Stanley Tools Settles "Made In USA" Charges

It's the company's second offense

Women Driving Home Improvement Purchases

Women are buying more tools and supplies

Rebates: Sample Demand Letter

Having trouble getting your rebate? Here's a sample demand letter

Mean Girls Work At Victoria's Secret

Victoria's Secret Employees have been making discriminatory comments to customers.

Rain Checks May Extend Holiday Bargains If You Ask

DSW Settles FTC Charges

Company Failed to Protect Sensitive Customer Data

Store Brands Offer Competitive Quality, Study Finds

After-Christmas Return Policies Get Stricter

Shoppers may be in for some nasty surprises after Christmas as stores implement increasingly complicated and restrictive return policies, including checking a newly created "blacklist" of "serial returners" before accepting merchandise for a refund.

Massachusetts Curbs Online Alcohol Sales

Businesses were nailed in a sting operation

Staples Fined $850,000 for Lying to Its Web Customers About Delivery

Company Lied About Delivery to Its Web Customers, FTC Charges

Simple Escapes - Sample Demand Letter