Retail Watch

By Heather Lalley on Feb. 13, 2026

Retail watch: The fast-casual burrito chain can take some lessons from discount retailers that have also seen an influx of wealthier consumers.

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Technology

Amazon’s grocery retreat is a warning to restaurants chasing full automation

By Heather Lalley on Jan. 29, 2026

Retail Watch: The retail giant is closing all of its Amazon Fresh grocery stores and Amazon Go convenience stores. It’s a lesson that technology can’t replace human interaction.

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Consumer Trends

Why private-label’s grocery glow up should make restaurants nervous

By Heather Lalley on Jan. 22, 2026

Retail Watch: Store brands continue to set records. Their rise should give restaurants some clues about what diners want right now.

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Operations

Here’s why you should be paying attention to hemp-THC

By Heather Lalley on Jan. 15, 2026

Retail Watch: Plus, grocery stores are trying to eat your lunch business.

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Operations

Here are the restaurant segments most vulnerable to c-store competition

By Heather Lalley on Jan. 08, 2026

Retail Watch: Don’t expect fine dining at convenience stores. But do expect ongoing threats from gas station pizza, breakfast, fried chicken and more.

Consumer Trends

Even dollar stores are now saying they need to focus more on value

By Heather Lalley on Aug. 29, 2024

Retail Watch: Dollar General reported its low-income shoppers are pulling back even more, offering up a continued warning sign for restaurants.

Operations

Get ready for convenience-store consolidation to pose a growing restaurant threat

By Heather Lalley on Aug. 20, 2024

Retail Watch: Circle K’s owner wants to buy 7-Eleven’s owner, as well as the regional GetGo convenience chain. The deals will likely fuel even more fast-food competition.

Consumer Trends