Learn about Brilliant Earth’s new NYC showroom and what the future supply chain looks like. Plus, discover Ulta Beauty’s market fulfillment center model and LEGO’s holiday immersive experience.
In this week’s retail news, October retail sales are up year-over-year, showcasing strong consumer demand heading into the holiday season. Poshmark sellers express frustration over a new rate structure, while Lululemon teams up with Disney for a limited-edition collection. Explore how Trump’s tariffs might supply chains and which brands are already preparing for potential disruptions. Plus, luxury retailers are getting creative with shipping container pop-up shops. Stay tuned for the latest commerce and retail updates in our weekly blog.
Brilliant Earth opens Nolita showroom, expanding NYC presence
Brilliant Earth Group, Inc., a leader in ethically sourced fine jewelry, has launched its first street-level showroom in New York City, located at 255 Elizabeth Street in Nolita.1 This new showroom, the company’s 39th globally, marks a significant expansion in the New York Metropolitan area, complementing existing locations in Brooklyn, Manhattan and Long Island.
The Nolita showroom features an interactive jewelry try-on bar, private spaces for personalized bridal consultations, and access to Brilliant Earth’s fine jewelry collections, including the Jane Goodall Collection and Zodiac pendants. "We are committed to serving our customers where they live and shop," said CEO Beth Gerstein. "Opening in Nolita, especially during the holiday season, is an exciting step forward."
Chief Brand Officer Pam Catlett added, “This new location is an important milestone in our brand's evolution. We’re delighted to bring our distinct collections to this vibrant New York City neighborhood, a hub of style and self-expression.”
October retail sales rise 6.1% year-over-year, signaling holiday momentum
Retail sales in October reached $255.06 billion, climbing 6.1% year-over-year, according to the U.S. Department of Commerce.2 Ecommerce outperformed, surging 9.4%. The National Retail Federation’s Retail Monitor, which excludes restaurants, autos and fuel, reported a 4.6% increase in core retail sales.
Strong performance across most categories included gains in home goods (3.8%) and apparel (4.3%), which boosted department store sales by 1%. Declines in electronics (-1.1%) and sporting goods (-1.6%) were smaller compared to earlier months. GlobalData research noted that October spending benefited from early holiday deals and Halloween. Despite optimism for a “reasonable holiday season,” economists remain wary of future volatility tied to anticipated policy changes.
New rate structure leaves Poshmark sellers frustrated
Poshmark’s newly implemented fee structure has left many of its sellers frustrated, fearing it will drive buyers away.3 The changes, introduced last week in the U.S., reduce seller fees from 20% to 5.99% but add a new “buyer protection fee” of 5.99% and tiered additional fees based on item price. Buyers are also still responsible for shipping costs, which start at $7.97.
The update aims to lower costs for sellers while maintaining the platform’s services, according to Poshmark. However, many sellers argue the added fees will deter buyers, particularly those shopping for lower-priced items. Critics highlight that total costs at checkout have increased significantly, making secondhand purchases less appealing for budget-conscious shoppers.
Some sellers are already seeing impacts, with buyers asking for reduced prices to offset the fees. Others are contemplating moving to alternative platforms like eBay and Whatnot, which don’t impose similar buyer fees. While Poshmark defends the changes as a response to seller feedback and industry trends, many sellers feel the timing and execution (during the crucial Q4 period) have jeopardized their sales and relationships with buyers.
lululemon and Disney launch “Happily Ever Active” limited-edition collection
lululemon and Disney unveiled a limited-edition collection on November 12, celebrating joy, movement and nostalgia.4 The 34-piece line features archival Disney graphics and reimagined images of Mickey and Minnie Mouse, merging Disney’s whimsical charm with lululemon’s performance-focused innovation.
The “Happily Ever Active” campaign, accompanying the launch, showcases lululemon Ambassadors such as NBA star Jordan Clarkson, Olympian Colleen Quigley and Peloton instructor Cody Rigsby, who share their personal connections to movement and joy alongside Disney’s iconic characters.
“Disney and lululemon are coming together to celebrate joy, nostalgia, and movement,” said Matt James, runner and TV personality. “I can’t wait to rock the products, especially next time I visit Disney!” Colleen Quigley praised the collaboration for combining lululemon’s premium quality with Disney’s energy, calling it “extra special.” The collection includes fan-favorite styles like the Align Tank and Define Jacket, updated with Disney-inspired prints. Available globally online starting November 12, it’s also being sold in lululemon stores, select Disney Stores and at Disney resorts.
LEGO flagship store in London unveils immersive holiday experience
The LEGO Flagship Store in London’s Leicester Square has transformed into a festive wonderland this holiday season with a life-sized recreation of Santa’s Post Office set #10339.5 Visitors can explore the cozy scene featuring Santa’s sofa, a glittering Christmas tree and a LEGO Holiday Village view, perfect for capturing holiday memories.
As part of LEGO’s #BuildToGive campaign, guests can join the fun by building LEGO hearts to spread seasonal cheer. The experience is designed to go beyond shopping, offering an engaging and inspiring space for families and fans to connect and celebrate the holidays.
This unique installation reflects LEGO’s commitment to creating unforgettable moments for visitors of all ages. Open until January 2, 2025, the immersive area is a testament to teamwork across LEGO Retail Teams, ensuring an innovative and magical experience for everyone.
Ulta Beauty accelerates supply chain transformation with market fulfillment centers
Ulta Beauty is redefining its supply chain with a market fulfillment center (MFC) model, prioritizing efficiency and scalability.6 Unlike competitors building massive facilities, Ulta’s approach integrates smaller, specialized centers into its network, said Chief Supply Chain Officer Erik Lopez in an interview with Supply Chain Dive. “We don’t want to just build a one-size-fits-all network,” Lopez explained. “The beauty of the MFC model is it’s faster to build, gets closer and keeps inventory under one roof.”
The model includes four regional distribution centers (Dallas; Fresno, California; Greenwood, Indiana; and a forthcoming location in Pennsylvania), three MFCs and one “fast” fulfillment center in Jacksonville, Florida. MFCs, averaging 300,000 square feet, can serve 120 stores and process 25,000 daily ecommerce orders. The MFCs will have a limited assortment of products, primarily the company's highest moving inventory.
Trump tariffs could drive higher costs for brands and consumers: Companies adjust strategies
President-elect Donald Trump’s proposed tariffs, including a 60% tax on Chinese imports and a 10%-20% universal tariff on imports, could significantly impact U.S. brands and consumers.7 Companies like Steve Madden, Traeger, Yeti and Fortune Brands Innovations are adapting by diversifying manufacturing and exploring price adjustments.8
Steve Madden plans to reduce its reliance on China, which currently accounts for over 70% of its U.S. imports. "We’ve worked hard over a multiyear period to develop our factory base and sourcing capability in alternative countries like Cambodia, Vietnam, Mexico and Brazil," said CEO Edward Rosenfeld, who aims to cut China imports by 40%-45%.
Grill maker Traeger is expanding production in Vietnam to mitigate tariffs. “Pricing is always a lever,” CEO Jeremy Andrus stated, suggesting that costs could be passed to customers if necessary. Similarly, Yeti is increasing its manufacturing footprint outside China, with plans for 50% of its drinkware capacity to shift to other countries by 2025.
Fortune Brands Innovations is leveraging a diversified sourcing strategy, with less than 25% of its costs tied to China, down from 50% in 2018. If implemented, the tariffs could cost U.S. consumers an additional $6.4 billion to $10.7 billion annually on footwear alone, according to the National Retail Federation.
Luxury retail takes to the road with pop-up shops in repurposed shipping containers
Bal Harbour Shops is redefining luxury retail with traveling pop-up shops crafted from repurposed shipping containers.9 Featuring high-end brands like Dolce & Gabbana, Tiffany & Co. and Balmain, these innovative shops have set up in West Palm Beach, Florida, with plans to remain through January. “West Palm in Palm Beach County is growing, evolving, and getting better and better,” said Matthew Whitman Lazenby, managing partner of Whitman Family Properties, which owns Bal Harbour Shops. “We frankly couldn’t imagine a better market.”
Designed to bring the iconic Bal Harbour shopping experience to new buyers, the mobile retail concept has toured destinations across Florida, North Carolina and South Carolina. The pop-ups strategically align with peak market seasons, Lazenby explained: “We can essentially hit each market when it’s at its respective peak.”
The initiative also adapts to local needs. During Hurricane Helene’s aftermath, the shops in Greenville, South Carolina, temporarily served meals to first responders. While unconventional, Lazenby emphasized that the container structure becomes irrelevant. “It’s just a shopping center we can pick up and move,” he said. The West Palm Beach installation marks the latest stop in Bal Harbour’s journey, blending high fashion with community engagement in a unique retail format.
About the Author
