This past week brought some interesting shifts in the retail world, from consumer spending habits to how stores are embracing new technologies. We’re seeing changes that could reshape daily operations and customer interactions. It’s a good time to stay informed about what’s happening in our industry.
Key News & Trends
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US Retail Sales See Unexpected Dip in May
Government data released on June 17, 2025, showed that US retail sales in May fell by 0.9% from April, totaling $715.4 billion. This was a larger decline than anticipated and the biggest monthly drop this year, partly due to consumers pulling back after a rush to beat anticipated tariffs. This slowdown, particularly impacting auto sales, suggests a cautious consumer sentiment that can influence daily business flow and customer behavior in retail.
Published: June 17, 2025
Washington, June 17, 2025 (AFP) - US retail sales slip more than expected after rush to beat tariffs | NAMPA -
Kroger Plans to Close 60 Stores Nationwide
Major US supermarket chain Kroger announced on June 20, 2025, plans to close approximately 60 stores across the country over the next 18 months. This move aims to streamline operations and increase efficiency, following a period where the company couldn’t address certain consolidations due to its failed merger with Albertsons Cos. While the company reported profits exceeding expectations, this strategic decision reflects a focus on optimizing its footprint.
Published: June 21, 2025
https://www.costar.com/article/2029726214/us-grocery-giant-kroger-set-to-close-60-stores -
Self-Checkout Becomes the Standard, Driving Tech Upgrades
A new report highlights that 83% of consumers have used self-checkout in the last six months, making it an expected part of the shopping experience. Younger generations, especially Gen Z and Millennials, prefer it for speed and control. In response, retailers are upgrading these systems with advanced technologies like cameras for unscanned items, automatic produce recognition, and age/ID verification, shifting staff roles towards assistance and oversight.
Published: June 17, 2025
6 key trends shaping the future of commerce in 2025 | Kiosk Marketplace -
Millennials and Gen Z Reshape Payment Expectations with Demand for Flexibility
A recent report reveals that Millennials and Gen Z are driving a significant shift in payment preferences, demanding more flexible and customizable options. They are keen on features like choosing repayment plans at the point of sale, gaining deeper insights into their spending, and setting pre-set spending limits. This trend moves beyond traditional credit cards towards dynamic, digital-platform-like financial tools, impacting how retail employees handle transactions and customer service at checkout.
Published: June 17, 2025
Millennials Drive Demand for Flexible Card Payments -
Retail Tech Innovations Are Redefining the In-Store Experience
Retailers are increasingly adopting new technologies to enhance the in-store experience, including AI-powered stylists, interactive kiosks, AI retail cobots, and advanced smart shelf labels. These innovations aim to provide direct customer assistance and automate operational tasks, freeing up human staff for more complex customer service. This shift means the role of retail staff is evolving, requiring adaptation to a technology-enabled environment and a focus on advanced customer engagement.
Published: June 22, 2025
Top 70 Retail Trends in June
Tools & Tips
- New POS Software for Small and Medium Businesses Global Payments has launched new point-of-sale (POS) software, “Genius for Retail,” specifically designed for small and medium-sized retail businesses. This solution aims to be an “innovative command center” offering comprehensive features for payment acceptance, business management (like inventory and employee scheduling), customer engagement, and order-ahead capabilities. It’s rolling out first in the U.S. with plans for further expansion.
Global Payments Launches POS Software for Retailers
Fun Fact
Did you know the town of “Cashiers” actually got its name from, well, cashiers? There is a charming mountain village in North Carolina called Cashiers. While some local legends link its name to a racehorse or a hermit, the most widely accepted theory is that it originated from the accounting work performed by the Zachary family in the 1830s. They acted as the “cashiers” for individual gold miners in the area, assisting them in exchanging their gold for cash. The first post office for “Cashiers Valley” was established in 1851.
We’d love to hear from you! Have you participated in any cashier events or utilized new cashier tools recently? Share your experiences or insights with us—we’re featuring selected community voices in next week’s edition.