The News In Brief
Walmart Asks Chinese Suppliers for Major Price Cuts on Trump Tariffs
Some suppliers, including clothing producers, have been asked to lower prices by as much as 10 percent per round of tariffs, essentially shouldering the full cost of duties.
Victoria’s Secret Abandons DEI Goal for Focus on ‘Belonging’
Chief executive officer Hillary Super told workers in a recent memo that Victoria’s Secret will “ensure our global team is inclusive of a wide range of backgrounds, experiences and perspectives.”
Kenvue Settles Proxy Fight With Activist Starboard
The company appointed three new directors to its board, including Starboard Value CEO Jeffrey Smith, as part of an agreement to resolve a months-long dispute over the company’s performance in the skincare and beauty segment.
Adidas Sets Cautious Tone for 2025 Outlook, Flags Tariff Risk
The company forecasted lower-than-expected operating profit for 2025, citing slower sales growth and increased volatility due to US tariffs.
Abercrombie & Fitch Deepens Retail Gloom With Tepid Forecast, Shares
Abercrombie & Fitch forecast weaker annual sales growth and warned of softer demand for its namesake brand, citing higher freight costs, more promotions, and the impact of US tariffs.
Foot Locker Outlook Weighed Down by Discounts, Weak Demand
The retailer forecasted lower-than-expected earnings for the year, citing weaker consumer demand and increased competition for budget-conscious shoppers, sending its stock down over 20 percent this year.
Inde Wild Secures $5 Million, Plans Sephora US Launch
The Indian skin and hair care brand has closed a seed extension round led by Unilever Ventures that the founders say will power its global partnership with the LVMH-owned retailer.
The Independents Launches Incubator
Paris-based spatial and lighting design firm Matière Noire is the first company to join the program.
Investors Brace for More Volatility With Trump Set to Address Congress
The president’s remarks come at a pivotal point for markets.
Olaplex Sales Slide 9.8%, Specialty Retail Recovers
The biotechnology hair care company said sales declined to $100.7 million in its fourth-quarter earnings on Tuesday, led by a steep slide in professional sales, but saw a return to growth in retailers like Sephora.
L’Oréal Divests Hair Care Line Carol’s Daughter
Originally founded in Brooklyn in 1993, the line focusses on the needs of curly, coily and Afro hair, and is one of a small number of Black-founded brands to be acquired by a major beauty conglomerate.
Shana Randhava is Latest Executive to Depart Estée Lauder Companies
As ELC restructures amid new leadership, the executive behind its next-gen acquisitions like Deciem is leaving the company.