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CES Sneak Peek with Stephanie Humphrey

YourUpdateTV

CES – running from Jan. 9 – 12 – is the most powerful tech event in the world and a proving ground for breakthrough technologies and global innovators. This year, organizers are expecting over 3,500 exhibitions, spread across 2.4 million square feet of exhibit space. Recently, Tech-Expert Stephanie Humphrey partnered with some of her favorite brands on a nationwide satellite media tour to discuss her top picks from this year’s show. A video accompanying this announcement is available at: https://youtu.be/toGeBBJ3pxk Attendees this year can expect to find new releases and innovations across a wide swath of technology, including laptops, wearables, health and beauty tech, smart home technology, TVs and home entertainment, automotive and EV, and a lot of AI. Here are Stephanie’s top picks: RoboRock S8 MaxV Ultra Making its debut this year, right here at CES, The S8 MaxV Ultra from Roborock is redefining how we clean our homes. The deep cleaning capabilities and self-maintenance features make cleaning more convenient than ever before. And with their Corner-to-Edge technology, which includes the FlexiArm Side Brush and Edge Mop, cleaning those hard to reach places has never been easier. And the best part? You can jumpstart your cleaning tasks by simply saying ‘Hello Rocky’ McAfee Deepfake Audio Detection To help combat that rise of online scammers using artificial intelligence, online protection experts McAfee have unveiled their new AI-powered Deepfake Audio Detection technology, to help people differentiate between real and manipulated, or fake, content. Known as Project Mockingbird, this technology will be a reliable resource for consumers amidst the rise of malicious and misleading, AI-generated material online. McAfee is working to integrate the technology as part of McAfee+ so keep an eye out for that in the coming months. Tonies Tonies are a great screen-free educational toy option for children! Just in time for the New Year, there are three new Tonies that can help your kid develop healthy habits – Yoga, Mindfulness, and Potty Training. Just pop any of the Tonies on top of the Toniebox and they will play a variety of stories, songs and lessons that can help develop children’s emotional intelligence with age-appropriate tech. They are perfect for any parents who want to embrace tech, but don’t want their kids staring at screens all day. XREAL Air 2 Pro AR Glasses The X-Real Air 2 Pro AR glasses are a great option for gaming, watching movies and TV, working at a desk, or incorporating augmented reality apps into your day-to-day life. They can turn nearly any device into a 130-inch virtual big screen that only you can view through the glasses. And because they look like normal sunglasses, they will fit right in your pocket and blend seamlessly into your day. This is truly the next generation of wearable tech and spatial computing. For more information on everything Stephanie discussed, you can check out stephaniehumphrey.com or follow me on Instagram at @techlifesteph About Stephanie Humphrey Technology and Lifestyle Expert Stephanie Humphrey is a former engineer who merges her passion for lifestyle media with in-depth tech expertise to show everyday people how empowering, enriching and fun technology can be. Stephanie is currently a technology contributor for ABC News where she works as part of the nationally-syndicatedStrahan Sara & Keke team. Her expertise is built upon more than a decade as a Senior Systems Engineer at Lockheed Martin. Contact Details YourUpdateTV +1 212-736-2727 yourupdatetv@gmail.com

January 17, 2024 03:22 PM Eastern Standard Time

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DIME Makes Retail Debut at Ulta Beauty

DIME

DIME announced today that they are launching into brick-and-mortar stores for the first time at the nation’s largest beauty retailer, Ulta Beauty. Following the success of the brand’s DTC growth since launching in 2018 and their presence on Ulta.com over the past year, the brand will launch onto Ulta shelves through Sparked, highlighted as the latest emerging brand to enter stores. DIME’s expansion to over 500 retail doors this spring signifies the exciting next phase of growth for the brand and their continued partnership with Ulta Beauty. DIME customers rave about experiencing real results and why they LOVE THE DIME DIFFERENCE™: clinically-proven, effective products that are luxurious, yet approachable. Founded by Master Esthetician Baylee Relf, who believes in an ingredient-first approach to skin wellness, DIME creates innovative products that use clean ingredients to support and enhance the skin’s overall appearance, health, and vitality. The DIME Clean™ Promise means DIME products can be used worry-free: no parabens, sulfates, phthalates, BPA/BPS, animal products, by-products, or derivatives. The brand is Conscious-Beauty certified at Ulta Beauty for its clean ingredients and vegan formulas, creating more choices across the skincare assortment that meet the retailer’s guests’ values, interests, and needs. “We founded DIME with the objective to set higher standards for clean, efficacious, and approachable skin wellness solutions,” said DIME Founder Baylee Relf. “We are so proud of how DIME has resonated in such a short period on our DTC website, cultivating an incredibly loyal customer base. A year ago, we launched on Ulta.com, and we have been thrilled to see Ulta Beauty guests’ enthusiasm for The DIME Difference. We believe this is the right time for our brand to deepen our relationship with Ulta Beauty and expand our presence onto the beauty shelves in 500+ stores nationwide at the beginning of 2024. We are excited to partner with Ulta Beauty to continue our mission of bringing Conscious Beauty to the forefront of our customers’ skin wellness journey." "We’re thrilled to introduce even more guests to DIME’s skincare and fragrance offerings through the brand’s first-ever launch into retail,” said Muffy Clince, Ulta Beauty’s Senior Director of Merchandising for Emerging Brands & Initiatives. “Consciously-made skincare and modern fragrances are categories beauty lovers are highly engaged with, and we’re grateful for this next phase of our partnership with DIME as we make these offerings more accessible for guests to discover their new beauty must-haves while shopping in Ulta Beauty stores.” For more information, please visit DIMEBeautyCo.com or Ulta.com and @DIMEBeautyCo or @Ulta Beauty on social media platforms. About DIME DIME is a clean ingredient-led skincare and fragrance brand that offers elevated solutions that deliver real results. Master your skin wellness journey through The DIME Difference: clinically-proven, effective products that are luxurious yet approachable. Founded by Master Esthetician Baylee Relf, who believes in an ingredient-first approach to skin wellness, DIME pursues innovative products that use the cleanest ingredients possible to support and enhance the skin’s overall appearance, health, and vitality. The DIME Clean™ Promise means you can use DIME products worry-free: no parabens, sulfates, phthalates, BPA/BPS, animal products, by-products, or derivatives. In addition to glass and recycled packaging, DIME sends all products in biodegradable and 100% recycled unit cartons and shipper boxes. ### For press inquiries, please contact Elyse Koenig: Beauty & Wellness Consulting: Nathalie Kourie nathalie@elysekoenig.com 858.342.7769 Contact Details Elyse Koenig: Beauty & Wellness Consulting Nathalie Kourie +1 858-342-7769 nathalie@elysekoenig.com

January 17, 2024 11:20 AM Eastern Standard Time

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Lotis Blue Consulting Releases Future of Retail Workforce Study: New Research Predicts Associate Stay/Leave Decisions with 87 Percent Accuracy

Lotis Blue Consulting

Lotis Blue Consulting, a corporate advisory and business transformation firm, releases the third edition of its comprehensive research study, Lotis Blue Future of Retail Workforce Study, analyzing the current state of the retail workforce. The study investigates ways the current macroeconomic environment has influenced retention trends for the retail workforce; factors that are becoming more important to employee retention and loyalty; how motivations for leaving or staying in a job are changing over time; and, new to this edition, how factors driving quit and stay decisions differ by workforce characteristics and retail segment. Research for the Lotis Blue Future of Retail Workforce Study was conducted during the lead-up to the 2023 holiday season and is based on comprehensive, objective feedback from 1,000 retail associates. The report uses the lens of the Employee Value Proposition (EVP)—including 7 dimensions and 30 underlying factors—to evaluate retail employees’ decisions to stay, consider leaving or leave an employer. “Labor dynamics in retail have changed dramatically in the last 12 months with a tightening of the job market and stabilizing sales, coinciding with major attitude shifts toward work and employers,” noted Lotis Blue Consulting partner and study author Aaron Sorensen, adding, “Even with changing labor conditions and issues, the data is comprehensive enough to predict an employee’s decision to stay or leave an employer with 87 percent accuracy. And in order to hold onto valued employees, we’ve observed that retailers must simultaneously provide an environment where there are more factors that make workers want to stay, and fewer that make them want to quit.” The study found that recent changes in labor market dynamics resulted in a decrease in turnover but a 7% increase in retail associates who are considering leaving their jobs, suggesting an underlying dissatisfaction with their current work situation. “Changes to the reasons that associates are staying or leaving an employer suggest that factors such as schedule flexibility serve a triggering role to job dissatisfaction,” noted study co-author and Lotis Blue Consulting partner Erica Grant. “While some decision drivers such as enjoyable work consistently influence staying decisions across workforce segments, other factors vary significantly in their importance by retail segment. There is no one-size-fits-all approach for retailers." The study findings in this most recent edition include: Talent strategies for the retail workforce have a short shelf-life, due to changes in labor and market conditions Stay and leave decisions have changed significantly in the last 12 months, differing across retailer types and workforce characteristics Job factors create magnetism that uniquely attracts or repels retail associates More associates are staying, but there are also more with one foot out the door Some factors matter more than others: 60% of all stay-or-leave decisions currently relate to Job & Work Environment, Company, and Leadership Culture Pay and Health & Safety have made significant jumps as turnover/retention drivers this year, and Scheduling triggers a cascade of turnover intentions For more information or to see the newest edition of the Lotis Blue Future of Retail Workforce Study, please visit: https://www.lotisblueconsulting.com/insights/2024-the-future-of-retail-workforce-study/ Study Methodology The ongoing Lotis Blue Future of Retail Workforce Study, now in its third iteration, has cumulatively surveyed over 3,000 employees across 700 retailers in the apparel, big box, apparel & luxury, grocery & convenience, home goods & electronics, specialty, fast casual and other sectors, deriving comprehensive, objective feedback. Research for the first study was conducted in summer 2022, for the second, in the lead-up to the of 2022 Holiday season, and for this current edition, in the lead-up to the 2023 Holiday season. At the intersection of growth and transformation, you’ll find Lotis Blue Consulting. We help businesses improve the performance of their workforce, leadership teams, and organizations through evidence-based strategies grounded in leading-edge analytics and behavioral science. Contact Details Meir Kahtan +1 917-864-0800 mkahtan@rcn.com Company Website https://www.lotisblueconsulting.com

January 17, 2024 10:30 AM Eastern Standard Time

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Dermatologists-Founded Brand Skintensive Expands in 2024 with the Addition of Industry Veteran and Brand Acquisition

Skintensive

Skintensive, an award-winning and science-backed skincare brand founded by two Harvard-trained dermatologists, is thrilled to announce its plans for expansion in 2024. Known for its clinically-tested and top-selling Bruise Cream and a skincare range designed to support maturing and sensitive skin, Skintensive welcomes industry veteran, Dr. John Bartolone Ph.D., and acquires ScarSmart, a scar improvement and prevention brand. Bartolone joins Skintensive co-founders Anar Mikailov, M.D., FAAD, and Vladimir Ratushny, M.D., Ph.D., FAAD, as Chief Science Officer. With over 30 years of experience leading research and development labs in two of the world’s biggest personal care brands, Procter & Gamble and Unilever, Dr. Bartolone has launched numerous “first-of-its-kind” technologies and products in skincare and haircare. Pioneering core global science platforms, including anti-aging and skin lightening, Dr. Bartolone most recently launched Unilever’s first plant-based preservative system. Prior to pivoting to cosmetics, Dr. Bartolone was an Assistant Professor at the University of Connecticut, where he was awarded the “Best Paper of the Year” from the Society of Toxicology for ground-breaking research on Acetaminophen Hepatotoxicity. “I was impressed when I first met Dr. Mikailov and Dr. Ratushny in how they found an underserved, white space in the otherwise saturated skincare industry,” said Dr. Bartolone. “They’re seeing patients daily in clinics and using that direct patient feedback along with their expertise to create truly functional products. I’m honored to bring my experience and expertise to Skintensive as the brand continues expanding.” “Dr. Mikailov and I are humbled and excited for John Bartolone to join us at Skintensive,” said Dr. Ratushny. “Not only does he provide an encyclopedic insight into the skincare industry, his experience in product development, brand positioning, and creating breakthrough innovations is truly invaluable.” In addition to the appointment of John Bartolone, Skintensive is excited to announce the acquisition of Scar Smart, the makers of Scar Smart Silicone Scar Gel and Scar Smart Silicone Scar Sheets. Scar Smart is a proven silicone-based scar revision product line that will expand Skintensive’s product offering of functional skincare solutions. "We initially developed the Skintensive Bruise Cream to address acute and chronic bruising and solar purpura that is exceedingly common in our patients,” said Dr. Mikailov. “Those same patients also need options for the prevention and improvement of scars on their fragile skin. Now, the patients who trust our Skintensive brand will have access to an incredible product that dermatologists have recommended for many years." The Skintensive brand is carried by numerous board-certified dermatologist offices in the United States and will be exhibited at the 2024 American Academy of Dermatology conference in San Diego from March 7th through the 11th. Skintensive’s expansion in 2024 reflects the brand’s strong sales growth and its commitment to delivering cutting-edge, high-quality, expert-driven skincare solutions. With the addition of Dr. Bartolone and the acquisition of Scar Smart, Skintensive is well-positioned to continue its growth trajectory and strengthen its position through 2024 and beyond. For more information, visit Skintensive.com and @ skintensive on social media. ### About Skintensive Founded by two Harvard-trained dermatologists, Skintensive develops science-backed and clinically-tested skincare designed to support aging skin. Best known for the Skintensive Bruise Cream, the company ensures that each formula is grounded in research and crafted to perfection through rigorous testing. About Anar Mikailov, MD. FAAD Dr. Mikailov is a Harvard-trained dermatologist with an expertise in high-risk skin cancer and medical dermatology. He is the author of the world-famous Fitzpatrick’s Color Atlas and Synopsis of Clinical Dermatology 9th edition, the best-selling dermatology textbook. He is dual-boarded in both Internal Medicine and Dermatology. Recognized as a leader in consultative hospital dermatology, Dr. Mikailov has published extensively and presented internationally. He practices medical and consultative dermatology full-time in Rochester, NY. About Vladimir Ratushny, M.D. Ph.D. FAAD Dr. Ratushny is a Harvard-trained dermatologist and fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon. He is well-known for his expertise in Mohs surgery, high-risk skin cancer management, general dermatology, and hair transplantation. During the course of his Ph.D. at Fox Chase Cancer Center, Dr. Ratushny discovered two new drug combination therapies for cancer, one of which went on to be tested in a clinical trial for lung cancer patients. Dr. Ratushny’s original research, case reports, and review articles have been published in numerous peer-reviewed journals in areas ranging from skin cancer, drug resistance mechanisms, Lyme disease, allergic contact dermatitis, and medical humanities. Contact Details Glow Yang PR Gloria Yang +1 310-381-9964 Company Website https://www.skintensive.com

January 17, 2024 08:08 AM Eastern Standard Time

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Start the Year Off Strong! Daily Wins, Lasting Changes: Achieve Your Health Goals with ‘Small Steps, Big Wins’

YourUpdateTV

As we step into the new year, many of us are looking for realistic ways to lose or maintain weight and achieve our health goals without the stress of a drastic transformation. Recently, registered dietitian-nutritionist, Scott Keatley, conducted a satellite media tour to share easy and sustainable tips to lose weight without completely overhauling your diet and routine. A video accompanying this announcement is available at: https://vimeo.com/903460368/bc03736ece?share=copy To help people with their New Year’s health resolutions, food tracking and nutrition app, MyFitnessPal, launched the free Small Steps, Big Wins plan. The one-week challenge introduces seven small changes that can have a big impact on health goals long-term across topics such as protein, sugar, hydration and more. If you are trying to lose weight in the new year, the Small Steps, Big Wins plan can help you accomplish your goal through small changes, tips, food swaps, and daily affirmations. This plan is right for you if you are: looking to lose weight but don’t want to completely overhaul your diet and routine, ready to make small daily changes that you can stick to long term or looking for easy tips and advice to keep you feeling motivated all year. Tracking food with MyFitnessPal not only holds you accountable, but it’s also incredibly empowering to learn more about how your body responds to nutrition. Tracking allows you to understand the quantity (calories) and quality (macros - protein, fat, and carbs) of what you eat. It can be difficult to make sure you are getting enough nutrients, such as protein and fiber, without tracking with a tool, like MyFitnessPal. If you want to start the year off strong, MyFitnessPal can provide inspiration on making small daily changes that add up to big improvements over time so that your resolutions last past January! Whether you're looking for healthy recipes, nutrition insights, food swaps, or workouts; the app is like having a nutritionist, personal trainer and coach right on your phone. If you’re interested in participating, simply download the free MyFitnessPal app on iOS and Android and join the Small Steps, Big Wins Plan today. You can join at any time and commit to making small changes to your daily routine for 7-days to kick-start the new year with a step in the right direction towards your wellness goals. To learn more visit myfitnesspal.com, or visit the Apple App store or Google Play store to download the app today. About Scott Keatley Scott Keatley is a Registered Dietitian-Nutritionist and member of MyFitnessPal’s Advisory Council. He is an active member of the Academy for Nutrition and Dietetics. Scott holds a master’s degree in dietetics from Iowa State University, a BS in Food and Nutrition from Brooklyn College and completed training at the Brooklyn Hospital and the H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute, a nonprofit cancer treatment and research center. In addition to his clinical dietitian work, Scott’s wellness contributions include NBC News, U.S. News & World Report, Cosmopolitan, Prevention and Yahoo Health. Additionally, Scott received The Media Excellence Award from the New York State Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics in 2023. Contact Details YourUpdateTV +1 212-736-2727 yourupdatetv@gmail.com

January 16, 2024 04:37 PM Eastern Standard Time

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Top Five NSFW AI Chat and Image Tools You Must Try in January 2024

Summit Ventures BV

In today's tech-savvy world, we're increasingly connecting with AI chatbots for entertainment and interaction. With numerous options available, there are over 120 NSFW AI chat and image tools ready for your exploration. This article serves as your guide to the top NSFW AI chat and image tools that are a must-try, featuring AI hentai and AI writer capabilities! Table of Featured AI Chat and Image Tools 1. GPTGirlfriend.online 2. ChaiApp.pro 3. AI-Girlfriend.co 4. SexyFurries.com 5. AI-Companion.co Top Five Engaging and Diverse AI Chat and Image Tools The world of AI chatbots has seen significant growth, offering a variety of engaging options. While each chatbot brings its own unique features to the table, GPTGirlfriend.online stands out with its exceptionally engaging interactions and a wide range of capabilities. GirlfriendGPT: Chat with 25,000+ NSFW AI Characters GirlfriendGPT is an innovative AI-powered tool that brings your favorite anime characters to life, offering interactive experiences. This platform provides a wide array of activities, enabling you to create a virtual space for engaging conversations with your AI character companion. Moreover, GirlfriendGPT offers unrestricted content for a diverse experience, including an AI Hentai Image Generator and AI Writer. Key Features: Empowers you to create your personalized AI character companion. Allows unrestricted interactions and NSFW chats and conversations. Provides NSFW AI chatbot options, granting control over explicit content. Offers affordable premium and deluxe subscription plans. Resumes conversations with long-term memory. Chai App: Experience NSFW Chats with AI Characters Chai App stands out with its excellent website design and user-friendly interface, making it ideal for forging connections. This platform excels in creating companionship with a variety of AI characters. The AI NSFW chatbot seamlessly resembles a typical messenger app, enhancing realism. Additionally, Chai App allows you to customize your AI companion. Key Features: Intuitive navigation. Realistic chatbot interactions. Offers a diverse selection of AI companions. Allows customization of AI companions. Features AI Hentai Image Generator and AI Writer capabilities. AI Girlfriend: Personalized AI Girlfriends for Spicy Chat For those seeking personalized NSFW AI companions, AI Girlfriend is the perfect choice. Much like NSFW Character AI, this platform empowers you to tailor your own AI anime companion, adhering to your specific preferences. AI Girlfriend brings your ideal NSFW AI character to life, offering engaging and realistic interactions. Key Features: Provides realistic AI companion interactions with varied emotions and backgrounds. Abundance of features available for diverse AI character interactions. Offers budget-friendly pricing compared to other NSFW AI chatbots. Allows for the creation of a personalized AI companion. Sexy Furries: Explore Desires with Furry AI Chatbots Sexy Furries is renowned for having the best Furry characters in the AI chat and image tool world. This platform specializes in catering to intimate conversations and activities with AI chatbots. These AI companions provide natural and realistic responses, making it an ideal platform for those interested in NSFW and adult content. Key Features: Multilingual AI companion interactions. Customizable chatbot to align with personal preferences. Accommodates various interests and preferences in AI characters. Incorporates Image Generator capabilities. AI Companion: Engage with Customizable Chatbots AI Companions is a leading platform known for its wide range of character options in the AI chat and image tool domain. This versatile platform is designed to accommodate a variety of conversations and interactions with AI chatbots. Whether users are looking for engaging, realistic responses for everyday topics or exploring more mature themes, AI Companions offers a tailored experience for every user. Key Features: Support for multiple languages, enhancing global accessibility. Personalization options to tailor the chatbot according to individual preferences. Broad spectrum of interests and character types to suit diverse user needs. Advanced Image Generator technology for a more immersive experience. Frequently Asked Questions Q: Is there any age restriction for using NSFW AI chat and image tools? A: Yes, you have to be at least 18 years old and above as these tools contain restricted content suitable for adults. Q: Which AI tools allow NSFW content? A: Many AI companion chat and image tools offer NSFW content, with gptgirlfriend.online among the top platforms. Q: Do Character.AI tools allow explicit content? A: Some AI platforms allow explicit content, while others do not. Q: What is the AI tool suitable for flirtatious interactions? A: GirlfriendGPT is perfect for flirtatious interactions with AI characters, offering unique and realistic conversations with a variety of AI Anime characters. Q: Which AI chat and image tools do not filter NSFW content? A: GirlfriendGPT provides a great NSFW experience without content filtering. Q: What is the most cost-effective NSFW AI chat and image tool? A: GirlfriendGPT is among the most cost-effective AI chat and image tools, with plans starting with a free trial, offering an enjoyable experience with your NSFW AI companion. Q: Are NSFW AI chat and image tools safe to use? A: Yes! Platforms like GirlfriendGPT provide a secure and unrestricted environment for engaging with AI companions. They prioritize delivering a realistic and enjoyable experience while ensuring safety. In Conclusion As technology continues to advance, NSFW AI chat and image tools offer unique opportunities for users to establish virtual connections and relationships with their AI companions. These tools enable the expression and experience of emotions such as affection, comfort, and shared feelings in a virtual space. They bridge the gap between the virtual and real worlds, providing an innovative way to connect with AI characters. We encourage you to explore these NSFW AI chat and image tools, each offering a distinctive experience and limitless possibilities. GPTGirlfriend.online is the most advanced AI companion subscription service with a community of more than 500,000 Monthly Active Users. With more than 25,000 characters, it has transformed how people interact with and experience AI. Please refer to our detailed Terms of Use and Community Guidelines for comprehensive information on usage, safety, and ethical considerations on GPTGirlfriend.online Contact Details GPTGirlfriend Business Enias hello@enias.io Company Website https://www.gptgirlfriend.online

January 16, 2024 11:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

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Consumer Edge Data Reveals Most Verticals Achieved Positive Global Growth in H2 2023

Consumer Edge

Data from Consumer Edge (CE), a provider of global consumer data-driven insights, uncovers winners and losers across the globe in H2 2023. The report reveals which key industries experienced gains across the US, UK and EU. Notably, the most discretionary categories such as luxury and department stores were absent from the list. Online retailers, pet products/services, discount/club stores, ground transportation, health products/services grocery and limited-service restaurants were the only industries that grew sales across all geographies. “In reviewing our global spending data, the CE Insight Center uncovers winners and losers among key industries during the second half of 2023,” said Michael Gunther, Vice President and Head of Insights at Consumer Edge. “These takeaways highlight shifts in consumer behavior and can help companies develop specific themes and targets for 2024.” Online retailers stood out on the upside, as growth accelerated into H2 following a solid performance in the beginning of the year. Luxury: Consumer spending on luxury items declined across all three geographies. As inflation continues to squeeze real incomes and aspirational shoppers pull back on particularly pricey items, luxury became the worst performer out of all the industries in the US and UK and the second worst in the EU (second only to travel). This decreased appetite for direct-to-consumer luxury spilled over into the full-price department store space across the globe. Apparel, Accessories and Footwear posted mixed results, as strength in fast fashion offset softness in the other categories. Consumer spending at fast fashion brands grew in the US, UK and EU, as the challenging macroeconomic environment and strained budgets generated increased interest in more affordable items. Consumer spend growth was negative globally for the higher-ticket women’s apparel/accessories sub-industry. Restaurant spending growth decelerated from H1 to H2, although both full-service and limited-service ended 2023 on a positive note. The average check increased compared to 2022 as food and labor inflation persists. Consumers visited limited-service restaurants more in 2023 than in 2022, but trips declined for their full-service peers, reflecting an environment of strained consumer budgets and trade-down behavior. Home and Garden sales in the US declined in H2 2023 as high mortgage rates and limited supply continued to pressure housing market activity. Sales increased modestly in the UK and EU, although growth softened versus H1 2023, consistent with many other areas of the consumer economy. “Brands can identify impactful shifts in consumer behavior and new emerging trends by reviewing transaction data,” Gunther said. “By leveraging this data, companies can make more informed data-backed business decisions in the year ahead.” Insights Methodology The Consumer Edge Insight Center (CEIC) provides timely insight into global spending trends for consumer industries and individual brands built from transaction data across the US, UK and Continental Europe. About Consumer Edge Consumer Edge (CE) provides data-driven insights focused on the global consumer. Founded in 2009 by CEO Bill Pecoriello, CE is a data and insights as a service (IaaS) company delivering unparalleled views into global consumer spending behavior coupled with deep industry knowledge and analytical expertise. CE solutions provide key stakeholders across the corporate and investment landscapes with best-in-class tools to enable enhanced strategic decision-making. CE’s unique capabilities allow for actionable insights driven by near real-time market intelligence and benchmarking at the brand, sub-industry and industry levels. For more information visit consumer-edge.com. Contact Details Kite Hill PR for Consumer Edge +1 724-787-1565 ConsumerEdge@kitehillpr.com Company Website https://consumer-edge.com/

January 16, 2024 08:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

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ToolsGroup Named Leader in Five G2 Categories for Winter 2024

ToolsGroup

ToolsGroup, a global leader in retail and supply chain planning and optimization software, is proud to be recognized as a Leader in five separate G2 Winter 2024 reports. Across all report categories, less than 4% of products and services earn Leader recognition. According to G2, “Despite our expansive report distribution, only the crème de la crème earn the honor of a Leader or High Performer badge within these reports.” To qualify for inclusion in the Supply Chain Planning category, a product must provide planning tools for demand, inventory, replenishment, and ordering, facilitate delivery schedules and load planning, and customize plans based on individual business priorities. Solutions in the Demand Planning category must produce reliable forecasts by extracting key insights from metrics like inventory trackers, converting raw data into actionable forecasts, supporting automation, and leveraging predictive analysis. Based on a wealth of direct customer reviews, ToolsGroup earned recognition as a Leader in the following reports: Grid® Report for Supply Chain Planning | Winter 2024 Europe Regional Grid® Report for Supply Chain Planning | Winter 2024 EMEA Regional Grid® Report for Supply Chain Planning | Winter 2024 Grid® Report for Demand Planning | Winter 2024 EMEA Regional Grid® Report for Demand Planning | Winter 2024 “We believe the greatest measure of success is a profitable customer who can achieve efficiency gains and deliver premier service despite market volatility,” said ToolsGroup CEO, Inna Kuznetsova. “That’s why we’re honored that so many companies have publicly shared their experience as ToolsGroup customers. The overwhelmingly positive feedback is indicative of the power of our AI-driven supply chain solutions, the expertise of our teams, and the value of our partnerships. We are grateful to collaborate with so many forward-thinking brands, providing the quantum analytics, innovation, and expertise to help them achieve their business goals.” Additional Resources: Meet with ToolsGroup at NRF in NYC January 15th & 16th at Booth #3948 See ToolsGroup’s G2 reviews HERE. Learn more about ToolsGroup’s industry recognition from customers and analysts HERE. About ToolsGroup ToolsGroup’s innovative AI-powered solutions enable retailers, distributors, and manufacturers to navigate through supply chain uncertainty. Our retail and supply chain planning suites empower a new level of intelligent decision making and unlock powerful business improvements in forecast accuracy, service levels, and inventory - delighting customers and achieving financial and ESG KPIs. Stay in touch with ToolsGroup on LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube, or visit www.toolsgroup.com. Contact Details Meir Kahtan +1 917-864-0800 mkahtan@rcn.com Company Website https://www.toolsgroup.com

January 15, 2024 10:00 AM Eastern Standard Time

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ToolsGroup Launches Integrated In-Season Retail Inventory Optimization Solution

ToolsGroup

ToolsGroup, a global leader in retail and supply chain planning and optimization software, today announced the launch of their In-Season Inventory Optimization Solution, an integrated suite of tools in the greater JustEnough retail planning and execution suite. This solution combines the award-winning JustEnough Allocation and Replenishment products with rebalancing and markdown optimization powered by EvoAI’s quantum analytics and Inventory HUB’s zero latency inventory tracking. “Retailers today need an integrated solution that is agile enough to adapt to even the smallest changes in demand.” said Sahil Gupta, Chief Product Officer at ToolsGroup “With cutting-edge AI driven forecasting and inventory optimization accessing real-time views of inventory, demand and operations, retailers can ensure the right products are in the right place at the right time at the right price to maximize profit no matter what happens.” Working capital constraints are hitting retailers hard just as inventory-to-sales ratios are reaching their highest-ever levels. No retailer can afford to misallocate or cut margins on that inventory, yet they are navigating unprecedented market uncertainty entering 2024. In-Season Inventory Optimization allows retailers to respond quickly to reality, sensing and adjusting to changes in demand in real time to maximize profits regardless of emerging challenges. Core Benefits of In-Season Inventory Optimization: Minimal missed sales at the lowest possible cost through intelligent allocation that puts the right products on the right channels for higher inventory turns Real-time, store/item/size-level replenishment that adapts to even the smallest signals of changing demand from social trends to weather Fewer stockouts and minimal end-of-season waste thanks to full inventory visibility and optimization More sales with less inventory on hand as stock is dynamically moved across the network to where it will sell fastest Up to a 5.5pp increase in in-season margins through increased full-price sell-through and optimized markdowns “Retailers today must be able to thrive, not just survive, amidst certainty,” said Inna Kuznetsova, CEO of ToolsGroup. “That’s why we’ve launched In-Season Inventory Optimization with sophisticated quantum analytics that can sense even the smallest changes in customer demand in real time and instantly adjust strategy to maximize profits. This agility translates to optimal financial outcomes in even the most difficult markets.” ToolsGroup In-Season Inventory Optimization Solution is an integral part of the trusted JustEnough solution. JustEnough has long delivered unparalleled value and results to retailers around the world. With over 400 customers located in 45 countries, ToolsGroup enables intelligent real-time decision-making that transforms retail planning and execution. Customers report a 5% improvement in revenue growth on top of double-digit reductions in missed sales. Built-in automation cuts the planning workload by up to 90% and helps companies reduce waste by up to 30%. We’re excited to talk to you about our new In-Season Inventory Optimization solution. If you’re here in New York City this week at NRF, come talk to us about it at ToolsGroup’s Booth: 3948. Interested in how JustEnough can help you meet and exceed your in-season inventory and margin goals? Read more HERE. About ToolsGroup ToolsGroup’s innovative AI-powered solutions enable retailers, distributors, and manufacturers to navigate through supply chain uncertainty. Our retail and supply chain planning suites empower a new level of intelligent decision making and unlock powerful business improvements in forecast accuracy, service levels, and inventory - delighting customers and achieving financial and ESG KPIs. Stay in touch with ToolsGroup on LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube, or visit www.toolsgroup.com. Contact Details Meir Kahtan +1 917-864-0800 mkahtan@rcn.com Company Website https://www.toolsgroup.com

January 15, 2024 08:30 AM Eastern Standard Time

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