Your Retail Coach

Quick commerce 🚴‍♂️ now powers 35-40% of e-commerce sales 📈, while Saudi 🇸🇦 e-commerce hit $4.6B 💳 in November. Amazon 🛒 launched its Retail Ad Service to rival Walmart Connect 🏢, and Walmart teamed up with Rebag 👜 for luxury resale. Meanwhile, global leaders 🌍 prepare to shape retail’s future at The Retail Summit in Riyadh 🕌 this January. Retail is evolving—are you keeping up?

Dark stores are revolutionizing e-commerce fulfillment, but are they the right fit for your business? Let’s explore the pros and cons to weigh the potential benefits and challenges. 🏬📦 How do you see dark stores affecting retail? Share your thoughts!

The MENA region saw a 29% drop in venture capital funding in 2024, with Saudi Arabia leading in funding value despite a sharp 44% decline, while the UAE led in deal count with 188 transactions. 🇸🇦🇦🇪📉 Meanwhile, Prada is reportedly considering acquiring Versace from Capri Holdings, signaling potential shifts in luxury fashion. 👗💼 In retail, Ulta Beauty partnered with Instacart for same-day delivery across 1,400 stores, enhancing convenience and rewards for customers. 🛍️🚚 Additionally, eBay is integrating its listings into Facebook Marketplace, expanding reach for sellers and shoppers. 📱💻 Finally, a new report highlights that 63% of consumers prefer marketplaces over brand-owned websites, reflecting shifting e-commerce habits. 🛒💡

Wishing everyone a year of growth, success, and impactful connections. Let’s make this year extraordinary together! 🚀✨