Shopping News

Egg prices plummet to lowest levels in over a decade6/30/2017

Experts point to expanding flocks and overproduction as the main cause

Tips for sidestepping the dangers of flip-flops6/30/2017

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

Walgreens and Rite Aid abandon merger plans6/29/2017

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

8 best budget-friendly sunscreens of 20176/29/2017

The EWG names top green-rated sunscreens for families

Survey shows consumers prefer fast food to full-service restaurants6/28/2017

As menu prices go up, satisfaction goes down

How much does it cost to feed a teen?6/23/2017

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 choice6/22/2017

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 friendly6/22/2017

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

Rising chicken prices linked to breeding problems6/20/2017

Hatching rates are at their lowest level since early 2007

UPS adds peak surcharge for the upcoming holiday season6/20/2017

Consumers will likely need to pay a little bit more to shop from home this year

Civility at a fast food restaurant6/14/2017

Unfortunately, it's almost like spotting a unicorn

Jet.com drops Kirkland Signature products after being acquired by Walmart6/13/2017

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

Best Buy to offer 'try before you buy' rental option6/13/2017

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

ALDI increases expansion efforts with $3.6 billion investment6/12/2017

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

Payless announces second wave of store closings6/2/2017

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

How much should your wedding gift cost?6/1/2017

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

Amazon begins paying refunds for in-app charges made by children5/31/2017

More than $70 million in charges are eligible for refunds

Graduation spending to reach record high in 20175/22/2017

A survey shows total spending will exceed $5.6 billion

Senators introduce bill to make banking easier for marijuana businesses5/19/2017

Conflicts between federal, state laws hamper growers, retailers

USDA issues warning to Pittsburgh-area restaurant for serving raw horsemeat5/18/2017

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

Independent restaurants are beginning to outperform big national chains5/17/2017

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

Will a new set of golf clubs really help your game?5/10/2017

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

7-Eleven introduces candy bar-covered donut5/10/2017

It has caramel icing and chocolate drizzle too

It's a mattress in a box, not a collapsing office tower5/9/2017

Traditional mattresses are expensive to ship and sometimes contaminated with formaldehyde

Wegmans, Publix, Trader Joe's are consumers' favorites, survey finds5/9/2017

Walmart finished dead last in all categories

Target experimenting with next-day delivery5/9/2017

Pilot program will operate in Minneapolis this summer

Three simple gift ideas for Mother's Day5/9/2017

The third one might be the one most appreciated

TripAdvisor is integrating Grubhub's platform into its app5/8/2017

Users will be able to have food delivered from restaurants that don't normally deliver

What to watch out for when buying flowers this Mothers' Day5/8/2017

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

Where can you go to buy eyeglasses online?5/5/2017

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

Pizza Hut to invest $130 million to revamp restaurants5/4/2017

The company is hoping to turn around its slumping sales

Why paying users to write reviews of products is probably a bad idea5/2/2017

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

The return of the milkman5/1/2017

Specialty dairies will deliver bottled milk to your doorstep again

Chipotle's latest crisis: its payment system has been hacked4/26/2017

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

Study finds seafood mislabeling at six Washington, DC restaurants4/25/2017

But researchers say the discrepancies were mostly minor

CVS pledges to remove harmful chemicals from store brand beauty products4/21/2017

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

What attributes matter to consumers when buying food products?4/20/2017

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

Lower beef prices point to a great grilling season for consumers4/18/2017

The opening of markets in China have speculators bullish on beef

hhgregg fails to find buyer, begins liquidating4/10/2017

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

Payless files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in attempt to reorganize4/6/2017

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

Supermarkets adapt to meet changing consumer demands4/6/2017

Here's what consumers say they appreciate most

Why knowing the price of a product could affect how much you enjoy it4/5/2017

Researchers say focusing on price makes the experience less relaxing

Panera Bread sold to German group4/5/2017

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

Johnson & Johnson Vision Care settles price-fixing suit4/4/2017

Maryland complaint alleged the company kept contact lens prices high

UPS expands Saturday ground delivery options4/4/2017

The company plans to roll out ground delivery and pick-up options nationwide

Later Easter could mean record retail spending3/27/2017

The NRF is forecasting a 6% surge over last year

Payless steps towards bankruptcy, reports say3/22/2017

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

Costco looks towards home delivery under new partnership3/22/2017

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

German twins Aldi, Lidl shaking up U.S. grocery business3/22/2017

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

eBay to promise 'Guaranteed Delivery' on 20 million items3/21/2017

New program will go into effect during the summer

Medical or recreational marijuana will be legalized in all states by 2021, firm predicts3/20/2017

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

J.C. Penney lists 138 stores it will close this spring3/17/2017

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

Consumer Reports warns of ineffective carbon monoxide detectors3/15/2017

The magazine found three detectors that failed critical tests

Sticky Fingers gang boosted merchandise in 28 states, sold it online, NY charges3/15/2017

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

Caribou Coffee cuts artificial ingredients from its products3/14/2017

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

What Millennials are eating3/10/2017

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

Bottled water eclipses soda as most bought beverage in U.S.3/10/2017

Americans drank 12.8 billion gallons of bottled water in 2016

Staples closing more stores after disappointing earnings3/10/2017

Consumers are increasingly buying office supplies online

Costco memberships going up by $53/3/2017

Warehouse retailer hikes fee in wake of declining earnings

McDonald's latest 'new' idea: hamburgers3/2/2017

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

Abercrombie & Fitch closing stores as sales decline again3/2/2017

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

Animal rights groups lose a round in egg label case2/28/2017

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 locations2/27/2017

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

Is time running out for hhgregg?2/24/2017

The electronics and appliances retailer has been bleeding money for years

Keurig pays $5.8 million for delays in reporting safety defects2/22/2017

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

Toy Industry Association announces top toys and games of the year2/21/2017

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

New sell-by labels aim to reduce confusion, waste2/20/2017

Forty percent of food goes to waste in the U.S. each year, partly because of unclear labels

How demand for dog walkers could outstrip demand for teachers in coming years2/17/2017

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

College student out to disrupt the textbook industry2/16/2017

Ecommerce site arranges student-to-student used book transactions

Feds find funeral homes aren't all providing itemized pricing2/15/2017

Investigators visited 133 funeral homes and found 31 violations in the last two years

Dairy farmers rustle up opposition to plant-based milks2/13/2017

If it doesn't come out of a mammal, it's not milk, farm interests argue

Poll suggests consumers are forcing businesses to be more political2/9/2017

Consumers like companies that reflect their values

ALDI announces plan to remodel and upgrade stores to appeal to more shoppers2/9/2017

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

Domino's now has its own wedding registry2/8/2017

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

Lawmakers line up to overturn the Philadelphia soda tax2/7/2017

They argue that the tax unfairly burdens consumers and could hurt the state's bottom line

Ivanka Trump brand is shown the exit by Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus may follow2/3/2017

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

Trouble on Main Street: retailer bankruptcies skyrocket2/3/2017

The Deal reports bankruptcies nearly doubled in 2016

How much couples are spending to get married in 20172/3/2017

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

Study finds toxic material in fast food packages2/2/2017

Environmental group says chemicals can get into food

iSpring agrees to drop 'Made In USA' claims2/2/2017

The FTC said the claims were not true

Foreign companies consider building operations in the U.S. to avoid import taxes2/2/2017

Samsung, LG, and Hyundai have all made preemptive moves

Walgreens-Rite Aid merger put on hold1/30/2017

Regulators have put the proposed deal under a microscope

What would a 20% import tax on Mexico mean for consumers?1/27/2017

The cost of a lot of things could go up

Social media doesn’t influence Millennials’ purchasing choices, study finds1/27/2017

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

Consumers to shell out big bucks for the 2017 Super Bowl1/27/2017

But it's not as much as they did a year ago

Target announces new policy for removing harmful chemicals in its products1/26/2017

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

Pigs’ diets matter to Millennial consumers, survey finds1/25/2017

Millennials are more likely than other generations to place importance on pigs' diets

New ads add feeling to the usual sight, sound, and motion1/25/2017

The ads are generating quite a bit of buzz in the advertising world

TV sets go on sale in advance of the Super Bowl1/24/2017

Shopping site finds prices that rival Black Friday

The most improved and biggest brand busts of 20161/19/2017

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

USDA proposes new rule for organic meat products1/19/2017

The changes would provide more humane conditions for livestock and poultry

New wearable helps users monitor their alcohol intake1/19/2017

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

How improving the online customer experience can help companies succeed1/16/2017

Integrating new technologies can help strengthen customer relationships, expert says

Consumers 'window shop' on the web too1/16/2017

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

Gun TV pauses to reload1/13/2017

Billed as iTunes for guns, the home shopping network says it will return

Shopper store pathway heatmaps identify opportunities1/11/2017

Eye tracking can help retailers understand where shoppers focus their attention

FedEx to open shipping centers in Walgreens stores1/11/2017

Companies say consumers will have more secure pick-up options

Is brick-and-mortar retail going down for the count?1/9/2017

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

Sears closing 150 more Sears, Kmart stores1/5/2017

Company is also spinning off Craftsman Tools line

MyPillow gets a rude awakening as the Better Business Bureau gives it an F1/5/2017

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

Macy's closing 68 stores after a harsh winter sales season1/5/2017

This leaves the shrinking department store chain with about 630 stores

Smart device turns your stove off if you accidentally leave it on1/5/2017

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

US Postal Service ends its deal with Staples1/5/2017

Postal workers union had protested the deal and boycotted Staples for years

Chickens not as dumb as you think they are, study finds1/3/2017

They can count, use deductive reasoning and deceive each other

More store closings for Sears, Kmart12/29/2016

Parent company arranges credit line of $500 million

Big chunk of charitable donations stay in fund-raisers' pockets12/27/2016

Annual report finds little difference from previous years, cautions consumers to be careful

People often think healthy food has to be expensive, study finds12/22/2016

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

Consumer trends that will be hot in 201712/22/2016

Wearables are out, privacy is in

Los Angeles sues retailers over discount claims12/12/2016

National chains are accused of inflating the original price of things on sale

Target store offers sensory-friendly shopping hours for customers with autism12/9/2016

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

Whole Foods predicts these foods will be trending in 201712/7/2016

Top trends include purple foods and pasta made from alternative grains

Congress approves bill protecting consumers' right to review businesses12/6/2016

The measure outlaws the use of gag clauses in contracts

American Apparel says it may lay off 3,500 workers12/6/2016

While the cuts are not a sure thing, they would largely affect workers in Southern California

Albertsons bucks supermarket trend by ditching self-service checkout11/22/2016

The chain thinks human contact trumps efficiency

Rating retailers on eliminating chemicals11/18/2016

Walmart rated highest, Amazon rated lowest

Is ALDI about to take on Whole Foods?11/16/2016

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

How multitasking can make you a worse shopper11/16/2016

Researchers find that certain kinds of multitasking make consumers less able to complete a shopping task

New Balance tries to roll back pro-Trump comments11/16/2016

White supremacists have labeled the brand 'official White people shoes'

PetSmart.com rolls out same-day shipping, scheduled delivery11/11/2016

In an effort to compete with Amazon, PetSmart will offer expanded shipping options on its site

And the winner is ... marijuana11/9/2016

California, three other states legalize recreational use of the weed

Coffee demand reaches record high, thanks to Millennials11/3/2016

The increased demand has led to tightened supplies and higher prices on some beans

How Chipotle Mexican Grill hopes to win you back10/27/2016

The chain is tweaking its menu and systems after a disastrous year

PBS Kids' new tablet lets parents set screen time limits10/25/2016

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

Do you save money shopping online?10/19/2016

It all depends on what you are buying

Pop-up Halloween stores may be more trick than treat10/18/2016

Shoppers should consider what they'll do if they need to return an item

Consumers more or less on board with drone deliveries, survey finds10/14/2016

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

Amazon's 2016 holiday toy list reveals most sought-after toys of the season10/14/2016

The list includes 1,070 popular items

Surprising new food trends expected to make a splash in 201710/13/2016

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

Chick-Fil-A's secret of success isn't complicated10/4/2016

Nice guys do finish first

VarageSale eradicates anonymity to make online buying, selling safer9/30/2016

The free app lets users buy and sell to verified, local members

Aetna reveals plan to subsidize cost of an Apple Watch for some customers and employees9/29/2016

The health insurance company's partnership with Apple has already spawned many coming initiatives

West Elm aims to fuel growth by launching a hotel chain9/26/2016

Rooms will be staged with West Elm furniture and decor

Yet another food marketing label to watch out for9/23/2016

You may begin to see premium-priced produce labeled "from preserved farmland"

NutraClick ordered to change billing procedures9/22/2016

The supplement marketer was the subject of more than 70,000 complaints

Golfsmith files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy9/16/2016

It's the latest episode in a sad turn of events for U.S. sports retailers

House passes bill banning gag orders in consumer contracts9/13/2016

The Senate passed a similar version earlier and Obama is expected to sign the final version

Getting better customer service lately? Thank the internet9/13/2016

Companies want to make you happy before you can tell the world you're not

Mondelez bringing Milka Oreo bars to the U.S.9/9/2016

The company failed in its recent bid to acquire Hershey

Consumer groups want FTC to crack down on celebrity endorsements9/8/2016

Cosmetics and weight loss products are the biggest offenders, groups say

Gun-makers resist Massachusetts safety probe9/7/2016

Glock, Remington file suit to thwart the state's investigation

Report says 20% of seafood is mislabeled9/7/2016

Oceana says what you think you're buying may be another fish entirely

How Nordstrom is targeting Millennials9/7/2016

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

UPS raising shipping rates nearly 5%9/2/2016

But most hikes won't take effect until after the holiday season

Supermarkets remain inconsistent in posting food recall notices9/1/2016

Report finds wide variation from one grocery chain to another

New company lets kids design their own clothing8/31/2016

'Picture This' turns drawings into dresses

Maytag plug-in lets you hide negative political chatter on social media8/26/2016

The desktop plug-in replaces political smears with something more upbeat

Internet of Things -- a little person on your shoulder8/24/2016

Contextual advertising will be with you wherever you go as the IoT is deployed

It's not a dream: My Pillow hit for $1.1 million in unpaid NY sales tax8/17/2016

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

Back-to-school shopping drags on8/17/2016

Only about half of shoppers have finished stocking up

Kids' food choices influenced heavily by advertisements8/15/2016

Researchers say commercials influence kids' brain activity

Macy's closing 100 more stores, plans to juice up its online operation8/11/2016

The venerable chain says its "dynamic digital offerings" will make up for the lost retail space

Federal Trade Commission sues 1-800 Contacts8/9/2016

Feds say company engaged in anti-competitive behavior

Patent Office rejects Whole Foods 'World's Healthiest Grocery Store' trademark8/5/2016

It still has the 'American's Healthiest Grocery Store' trademark as consolation, though

Soda sales continue to lose ground to water8/5/2016

Market research finds consumers are favoring water as a way to promote health

Target to sell Amazon items once again8/4/2016

The retailer will once again stock its shelves with Amazon tablets and e-readers

Here's a suitcase that weighs itself8/4/2016

A built-in scale is designed to eliminate surprises at the airport

Bose creates a speaker that kids can build themselves8/3/2016

The app-accompanied STEM toy lets kids build and customize their own speaker

CSPI's top nine calorie-laden restaurant chain meals of 20168/1/2016

While consumers crave them, they'll do a number on your waistline

What 'camping' means to a millennial8/1/2016

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

Fertility tracking wearable may succeed where apps don't7/28/2016

Wearing the device at night lets women know their five most fertile days

New clothing contains technology that protects wearers from bugs7/26/2016

Nobitech's athletic wear may ease bug-related worries

Tomorrow is here -- 7-Eleven delivers donuts by drone to Reno customer7/25/2016

Coffee and a Slurpee were also included in the first-ever fast-food drone delivery

Reach and maintain your optimal hydration level with this smart water bottle7/21/2016

You might not know how much water you actually need, say the makers of Pryme Vessyl

Chick-fil-A feels push-back over menu change7/19/2016

Die hard customers unhappy about disappearance of Spicy Chicken Biscuit

Food dye pops up where you least expect it, like in 'chocolate' snacks7/18/2016

Little Debbie Swiss Rolls use food dyes to make up for the lack of chocolate, critics say

Four ways to save on back to school shopping7/18/2016

Where to find cheap (or even free) clothing in your area

Retailers with wi-fi hotspots find they need to block porn7/18/2016

McDonalds acts, Starbucks considers it

Feds require Herbalife to restructure business in $200 million settlement7/15/2016

Hedge fund manager still attacking the business

Congress rouses itself, outlaws easily read GMO food labels7/14/2016

The industry-backed bill overrides Vermont's law and substitutes barcodes for English sentences

Portable AC unit uses gel-filled ice pack to cool small spaces7/13/2016

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

Starbucks raising wages and prices7/12/2016

Consumers don't seem to exhibit much price resistance when it comes to coffee

Five trends you may see at a wedding this year7/8/2016

What couples are saying 'no' to before saying 'I do'

Sports Authority sells millions of customer records and email addresses at auction7/5/2016

Dick's Sporting Goods bought the rights to the information for $15 million

Wearable swim monitor may help prevent drowning accidents7/5/2016

Collar alerts parents if kids have been submerged for too long

What second-hand shoppers should know before buying7/1/2016

Bringing home certain products may put kids in danger

Newsweek unexpectedly lays off more than 30 journalists7/1/2016

The once-thriving magazine has only 23 journalists left

Consumers pick Jeep & Disney as most patriotic brands 6/30/2016

"Believability and authenticity" are more important than flag-waving

$400 million on its way to e-book buyers6/20/2016

Publishers and Apple paying twice the amount lost by consumers

Whirlpool partners with Innit for its new connected ovens6/20/2016

Innit software creates an interactive cooking experience with no guesswork

Millennials are more frugal than you might think6/15/2016

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

Consumers come clean about public restrooms6/15/2016

What happens in the bathroom doesn't always stay in the bathroom

Keurig Kold loses its fizz, goes flat6/8/2016

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

Online shopping tops 50% for first time, UPS study finds6/8/2016

Smartphones are playing a bigger role in shopping, even in stores

Chick-fil-A, Subway top fast food poll5/24/2016

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

New regulations could make inflatable bounce castles safer 5/4/2016

Blower safety devices set to become mandatory

Flower sharing service aims to help brides save money and reduce floral waste4/27/2016

Bloomerent allows event hosts to share centerpieces with another nearby event

Sports Authority closing all stores, liquidating4/27/2016

The sprawling chain has abandoned efforts to reorganize

Hills Bros. introduces compostable K-cup coffee4/25/2016

The company's new pods are guaranteed to biodegrade

Walgreens settles overcharging complaint with New York4/21/2016

Retailer left expired sale prices on store shelves

Coca-Cola unveils its new 'One-Brand' packaging4/19/2016

The move is an attempt to unify the brand across all Coke products

The most and least expensive stadiums to watch a baseball game4/4/2016

A hot dog at Fenway Park costs 75% more than a hot dog at Yankee Stadium

Three food trends shaping the kids food industry4/1/2016

Industry players are focusing on millennial moms, multicultural families, and the real food movement

Survey: bloggers now have a bigger influence than celebrities4/1/2016

Blog and social media posts triumph over traditional advertising

Gree to pay record civil penalty3/30/2016

The company is accused of failing to report defective dehumidifiers

Oombrella: the smart umbrella that knows when it's going to rain3/28/2016

It can also prevent you from accidentally leaving it behind

Whole Foods commits to slow-growing chickens, better living conditions3/17/2016

Modern chickens have become overgrown monsters, animal welfare groups say

Women protest tampon taxes3/8/2016

Women's health products shouldn't be singled out for taxation, advocates argue

Starbucks taking a customized approach to complaints2/24/2016

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 chance2/18/2016

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

Burger King to begin serving hot dogs2/16/2016

Burger chain hopes to tap into popularity of often-overlooked sandwich

Survey: Super Bowl 50 expected to draw nearly 190 million U.S. viewers2/1/2016

It's more than a sporting event to many -- it's an excuse to party

Aldi plans to target health-conscious consumers by expanding their organic-food options 1/28/2016

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

Study: consumers spend millions on impulse buys1/25/2016

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

Macy's names 36 stores for closing in cost-cutting move1/7/2016

Retailer responds to growing online threat

“Clean” eating may be 2016's biggest food trend1/5/2016

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

Those who don't shop ethically will denigrate those who do, study finds1/5/2016

"Willful ignorance" on the origin of a product can lead to future unethical buying decisions

Amazon-UPS ties may be fraying12/24/2015

Consumers not thrilled with any of the current delivery options

Seven things to wait until the day after Christmas to buy12/22/2015

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

The smartest smart-home products of 201512/17/2015

Improve your home's air quality or even create virtual keys for guests

Macaccino: the world’s first roasted maca beverage12/11/2015

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

Toy aisles see gender-norms challenged12/7/2015

Marketing tactics involve more gender-neutral labeling this holiday season, allowing children freedom of choice

Cascara: the intersection of coffee and tea12/1/2015

An eco-friendly beverage made from coffee waste

Shipping deadlines especially important this year11/30/2015

This is when you have to get your packages to the Post Office, UPS, and FedEx

Nestle finds some of its food has been sourced with forced labor11/24/2015

Company announces reforms for its operations in Thailand

FDA approves GMO salmon11/19/2015

The modified salmon grow faster and eat less

T-Mobile's Binge On plan has a downside11/16/2015

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

Panera Bread moving to free-range meat and cage-free eggs11/5/2015

Growing trend likely to bring big changes to food industry

Consumers getting more skeptical of “social responsibility” claims10/2/2015

Washington State study observes that consumers are more sensitive to "greenwashing"

Coke from a Keurig? Yep, it's called Keurig Kold9/29/2015

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

Catholic church holds steady in U.S. as Protestants show heavy losses9/23/2015

Catholics are 23% of the U.S. population, a figure that has held for 66 years

7-Eleven jumps on the single-cup coffee bandwagon9/22/2015

But environmental concerns mount over these disposable coffee containers

Consumers putting off back-to-school shopping, studies find 8/6/2015

Smartphones are an important tool for shopping information

Making things easier for disabled consumers7/21/2015

Massachusetts reportedly probes ride-sharing services track record

“As Seen on TV” TeleBrands pays $550,000 to settle fraud complaints7/15/2015

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

Not enough oil in your Olay? P&G agrees to set things right7/8/2015

California prosecutors said P&G was violating the state's "slack fill" law

Why food costs could be headed even higher7/7/2015

Food manufacturers are facing growing problems getting their products to market

Consumers shopping online more but buying less7/1/2015

Could we be seeing "reverse showrooming?"

Sticky fingers stick it to retailers 6/29/2015

Shoplifting in 2014 cost retailers an estimated $44 billion

Dollar Shave Club -- nice close shave or a real skinning?6/25/2015

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

Congress may repeal country-of-origin food labeling law6/8/2015

Pro-consumer law runs afoul of the World Trade Organization

Study finds gluten in many probiotics5/18/2015

Amounts are tiny, but researchers ask why there is any at all

Keurig compromises on crass K-cup “copyright” control5/7/2015

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

Bipartisan bill would guarantee customers' right to criticize companies4/30/2015

Consumer Review Freedom Act of 2015 would outlaw non-disparagement clauses

Snuggie, Magic Mesh, other "As Seen on TV" products pay $8 million to settle charges3/5/2015

Another reason to carefully check your credit card statements each month

Eight emerging trends in nutrition bars3/3/2015

They're not just for athletes and mountain climbers anymore

Customers boycott Hershey's in retaliation for British chocolate import ban2/17/2015

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

States want service stations to stop selling synthetic drugs2/13/2015

Nine oil companies singled out in letter signed by 43 state attorneys general

Cheap chocolate candy? Might not be chocolate after all2/12/2015

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

5 online flower delivery services offering Valentine specials2/6/2015

Before selecting one, check them out using our reviews

Guess what? UPS doesn't like you either 2/4/2015

Big Brown will start charging more to deliver to residential addresses

GNC, Target, Walmart, Walgreens selling bogus herbal supplements, NY charges2/3/2015

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

Naked Wines hopes to change the way you buy wine2/3/2015

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

Real chocolate or compound chocolate? We won't get fooled again1/22/2015

Another reason to check the ingredients before you buy candy

Do false-bottom bunnies equal false advertising? Three California district attorneys say yes1/16/2015

New lawsuit alleges the "Too Tall Bunny" is actually average

Propane exchange tank suppliers ordered to halt efforts to restrain competition 1/14/2015

Blue Rhino and AmeriGas are accused of ganging up on Walmart

Knowing store policies will make post-Christmas returns easier12/26/2014

Here are the return policies of 5 major retailers

Freedom Stores slammed for exploiting military servicemembers12/18/2014

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 12/12/2014

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

Study: 85% of women use online reviews to make shopping decisions12/9/2014

Consumers say online reviews are now more important than input from a salesman

Buried in a blizzard? Here's a five-dollar emergency heat source for your car11/26/2014

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

Attorneys general urge feds to toughen telemarketing rules11/24/2014

Existing rules don't go far enough to protect consumers in today's environment, they argue

Paying more doesn't always get you higher quality10/22/2014

Consumers must dig deeper to learn what makes good value

How to get more shaves from your razor blades10/17/2014

You're probably replacing blades more than you should

Love it or hate it, pumpkin beer has become a fall staple9/30/2014

Seasonal treat or crime against nature?

When is a service dog not a service dog?8/29/2014

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

Keurig competitors crack company's DRM code8/28/2014

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

Court rules: Grove Square Coffee pods misled consumers and retailers8/27/2014

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

Gap and Banana Republic sued over outlet-store offerings8/19/2014

Plaintiff claims lower-quality outlet items constitute false advertising, violate consumer-protection laws

Feds say USA Discounters scammed military consumers; refunds pending8/15/2014

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

New Jersey sues "As Seen on TV" promoter 8/14/2014

Our own readers' complaints about Telebrands sound suspiciously similar

Where's the beef? The drought is drying up the meat industry8/13/2014

You can't raise cattle without plenty of water

Neiman Marcus sued over Last Call8/11/2014

Lawsuit claims items were never sold in genuine Neiman Marcus stores

Military-consumer lender Rome Finance forced to liquidate7/29/2014

Company preyed on military personnel; all consumer debts owed to it are discharged

Depend wants you to "Drop Your Pants" to reduce the stigma of incontinence7/29/2014

"Underwareness" combines ad campaign with charity drive

Rich people don't shop at “rich-people stores”7/15/2014

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

Non-disparagement clauses: a new way to get nothing for something6/24/2014

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?6/16/2014

Consumers who shop online appear to shun impulse buys

Hobby Lobby misled customers with "sale" prices, NY charges6/12/2014

The company advertised steep discounts but didn't deliver

Walmart's four-card limit: consolidate your gift cards!6/9/2014

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

Walmart to require three-digit security codes for in-store purchases5/21/2014

What helps protect Walmart might also help endanger its customers

Skeptic alert: think twice about “drinkable sunscreen”5/19/2014

You could maybe get the same medicinal benefits by blowing into a flute

Harris-Teeter introduces USDA-certified "very tender" beef4/25/2014

The guaranteed-tender cuts are aged 14 days

Oatmeal in a Keurig machine? General Mills thinks so4/21/2014

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

Harris Teeter intros $99 annual fee for online shopping4/18/2014

You still have to drive to the store to pick up your order, however

Brands may benefit from negative reviews4/15/2014

Study finds politely negative reviews may actually help sell products

Winn-Dixie wins ruling against Florida discount stores3/10/2014

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

Kroger, Safeway nix genetically modified salmon3/5/2014

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

Keurig 2.0 machines to feature RFID-limited K-cups3/3/2014

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

Fitbit wearers itching for relief2/17/2014

Rash and burns afflict fitness fans wearing the activity trackers

GPS-assisted grocery shopping: for people too incompetent to be grocery shopping anyway2/17/2014

No independent adult could possibly need this

Criminal charges against alleged NYC counterfeit retailers 1/20/2014

Store owners sold knock-offs and claimed they were the real thing, AG charges

gDiapers concedes its diapers may not be so green after all1/17/2014

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

Is your check any good? Certegy thinks it knows1/9/2014

When a data broker flags you as high-risk, what can you do?

How the secret eBay watch monopoly ruined Christmas12/27/2013

This story would make a terrible holiday TV special, and wasn't much better in real life

Stores with the best, and worst, return policies12/26/2013

Website rates Costco the best, Sears the worst

Hot-weather Christmas carols for the southern hemisphere12/24/2013

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

Telecheck Code 3: denying checks despite sufficient funds?12/18/2013

Overzealous anti-fraud net ensnares innocent customers, too

Slow shipping from the Bradford Exchange?12/11/2013

Beyond the usual seasonal and storm-related delays

Missing deliveries plague UPS customers12/9/2013

Even tracked packages can get lost

The case of Trader Joe's and the allegedly purloined banana12/3/2013

73-year-old shopper is accused of stealing a banana she bought earlier at Whole Foods

14 trends for 201411/19/2013

What brands need to do to maintain consumer loyalty in the new year

Fingerhut boots and the Vimes' Boots paradox11/14/2013

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

Court orders counterfeit shopping website shut down11/12/2013

But stay on guard: replacements are being minted daily

Beware of scammy shopping websites11/11/2013

One reader's cautionary tale contains valuable lessons for others

Rent-to-own is an expensive way to do either11/6/2013

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

Marketing to men by appealing to "manfluencers"10/25/2013

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

Beware Paula Deen's flaky cookware10/22/2013

Interior and exterior coatings prone to flaking off

Consumers find leather furniture doesn't live up to its billing10/17/2013

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

How many ounces in a pint of beer?10/9/2013

In Michigan bars, that might be a trick question

Family history stays a mystery on Ancestry.com10/2/2013

Readers report poor connections to scanty databases

Colgate Optic White: Hurts too much to use?9/26/2013

Sensitivity? Allergic reaction? Chemical burn? We're not sure

Dates stamped on food may not mean what you think9/12/2013

And most are merely voluntary, not required by law

Aloe vera juice -- is it really a good idea?8/30/2013

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

Don't confuse store brands with generics8/30/2013

Both both may offer significant cost savings without sacrificing quality

Cool and inexpensive items for the dorm room 8/9/2013

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

Lia Sophia: selling jewelry one party at a time7/11/2013

But not all buyers are charmed by their purchases

We take the MicroTouch Max hair trimmer our for a buzz 7/9/2013

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

Survey reveals some of consumers' favorite brands7/9/2013

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

The WaxVac: We give it a test whirl6/14/2013

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

Buying jewelry: What you need to know5/6/2013

Don't know a thing about bling? Read on

An app that reminds you when you're due a discount4/1/2013

Larky says it can get you discounts without coupons

The little blue box from Tiffany is fine but ...3/25/2013

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

Pressure mounts on Internet retailers to collect sales tax3/25/2013

Senate passes Marketplace Fairness Act over eBay opposition

Vitamin-enriched chewing gum -- an aid for dieters and athletes?3/12/2013

vitamingum says its product is absorbed faster and doesn't promote tooth decay

La-Z-Boy puts Brooke Shields in a delicate situation2/5/2013

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

McDonald's wants stores open Christmas Day12/19/2012

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

Under $50 gifts for the college student12/10/2012

And these aren't just your run of the mill mini-fridges, these gifts are slightly out of the box

In Search of the Best Chain-Store Pizza11/13/2012

Papa John's, Domino's and Pizza Hut go head to head to head for chain pizza supremacy

Ronco Knives: Many Consumers Say They Just Don't Make The Cut11/7/2012

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

In Search of the Best Fast-Food Fish Sandwich8/24/2012

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

SodaStream: Does It Really Do That?7/13/2012

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

Consumers Question Lane Home Furniture's 'Lifetime' Warranty7/11/2012

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

Access Over Ownership: The New Shopping Trend7/11/2012

Why own when you can rent? Good question, sometimes

Supermarkets vs. Drugstores: Which Is Cheaper?7/9/2012

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

Buying Eyeglasses Online: Good Idea?6/29/2012

Quality, fit and safety standards may be a little fuzzy

Report: Consumer Spending is Down But Not on Gas, Meds or Groceries5/18/2012

Consumers not eager to give up the convenience of driving themselves

If You Receive Unordered Merchandise, Consider It a Gift3/26/2012

Many Bottom Line Books customers confused after receiving unordered books

How Long Should You Wait For An Order Or Refund?2/1/2012

The Federal Trade Commission has a rule for that

Are Automatic Renewals A Deceptive Practice?11/3/2011

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

What's On Your Mind? Office Depot, Marriott, Wired Plastic11/3/2011

Our daily look at consumer reviews

Men Becoming Coupon-Conscious, Study Finds8/2/2011

Male shoppers' appetite for coupons driven by technology

'Alarming' Increases Seen in Food Prices5/25/2011

How much more can consumers stomach?

How To Avoid Buyer's Remorse4/8/2011

Researching a purchase provides peace of mind, researcher says

Walmart Plans Major Healthy Changes For Stores, Consumers1/21/2011

The mega-chain hopes to make healthy foods cheaper, easier to find by 2015

Watchdog Group Unhappy With New Meat Rules1/3/2011

Center for Science in the Public Interest calls nutrition labeling rules for meat a 'missed opportunity'

Toxic Levels of Lead in Many Thrift, Antique, and Resale Items12/2/2010

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

Ever Wonder How Those Factory Outlets Work?11/2/2010

Why are they always so far out of the way?

Macy's Employee Sold $900,000 Worth of Stolen Goods on eBay9/28/2010

California man pleads guilty to stealing merchandise, selling it on the Internet

Consumer Reports Names the Best & Worst Home Products4/7/2010

Magazine ranks everything from laundry detergent to toilet paper

Reporter Challenges Consumers to Think Big When Seeking Savings2/7/2010

Pinching $1,000 bills beats pinching pennies, says Good Morning America's Elisabeth Leamy

How To Complain and Get Results1/26/2010

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

Consumers Trust Online "Word Of Mouth" Most7/10/2009

Making customers happy can pay big promotional dividends

Wegmans, Trader Joe's, Publix Top Consumer Reports Supermarket Survey4/6/2009

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

Obama Eyes Consumer Activists for Agency Posts11/7/2008

FDA, EPA targeted as needing reformers to lead

Wal-Mart Selling Bassinets Blamed for Killing Two Babies8/27/2008

Simplicity products still at stores and for sale online

Sharper Image Closing All Stores6/3/2008

Company challenged Consumer Reports and lost

Wegmans, DeCicco Markets Ditch Cigarettes6/2/2008

Biggest cigarette tax increase ever slated for NY State

How to Fight Rising Food Costs5/11/2008

Meal planning can help you stay ahead of rising prices

Court Orders Tyson to Pluck its 'No Antibiotics' Campaign5/2/2008

Competitors sued Tyson, claiming its ads were misleading

Ionic Breeze Suit Drives Sharper Image into Bankruptcy2/20/2008

Company challenged Consumer Reports and lost

Study: High Heels Highly Sexy2/4/2008

Italian scientist claims stilettos spice up sex life

Macy's Customers Get New Citicards--Like It Or Not10/9/2007

Citibank flipped store cards into true credit cards

Online Camera Stores: Take a Close Look9/14/2007

Rigged reviews, bait-and-switch tactics common

New World Order: Sweatshops R Us7/15/2007

Worried About Product Safety? How About Worker Safety?

How Much Caffeine In That Cup Of Decaf?10/12/2006

Study: Almost all decaffeinated coffee contains some caffeine.

Panasonic Offers Replacement Lamps for Some LCD TVs9/29/2006

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

The Penny's End Is Near7/19/2006

A Penny Saved ... Isn't Worth Much

Congress May End Wal-Mart's Banking Dreams7/13/2006

Stanley Tools Settles "Made In USA" Charges6/11/2006

It's the company's second offense

Women Driving Home Improvement Purchases5/16/2006

Women are buying more tools and supplies

Vertrue's "Negative Option" Sales Attract Scrutiny5/9/2006

Mean Girls Work At Victoria's Secret1/18/2006

Rain Checks May Extend Holiday Bargains If You Ask12/30/2005

DSW Settles FTC Charges12/5/2005

Company Failed to Protect Sensitive Customer Data

Retailers' Return Policies Getting Tougher11/25/2005

When determining a store's return policy, it's always best to ask for it in writing

Store Brands Offer Competitive Quality, Study Finds7/5/2005

After-Christmas Return Policies Get Stricter12/24/2004

Massachusetts Curbs Online Alcohol Sales12/22/2004

Businesses were nailed in a sting operation

Staples Fined $850,000 for Lying to Its Web Customers About Delivery5/22/2003

Company Lied About Delivery to Its Web Customers, FTC Charges

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