Welcome to a new week. Black Friday may be starting early this year, but don't forget Halloween. Americans are ready to do the time warp, statistically speaking. Spooky season participation rates are expected to be back to 2019 levels, according to the National Retail Federation. While many can agree on their love of frights, favorite candy is a matter of regional preference. According to Instacart, Eastern states tend to prefer peanut M&Ms and Twizzlers, while Western states tend toward Reese's Peanut Butter Cups and Red Vines. Digital shelves are being stocked accordingly.
Here's a look at what's on the schedule in ecommerce and retail this week:
Events
Here’s where retail, ecommerce and CPG leaders are gathering this week:
DTCx Retain: Direct-to-consumer leaders gather in LA for three days of learning from founders, hands-on workshops and giveaways. Keynotes and panel discussions will feature leaders from LOVE Wellness, Gorgias, True Classic Tees, Klaviyo, Liquid Death and more. Virtual attendance available. Oct. 19-21
Supply Chain Visibility Summit: GSI US presents a virtual event to educate industry leaders on gaining visibility into digital supply chains. Topics include: Creating greater efficiencies and resilience, strengthening trading partner relationships and acquiring new customers. Oct. 20, 1-3:30 p.m. EST.
Modern Retail DTC Summit: What does DTC marketing look like in a changed landscape? That's the question that will be explored in Miami by leaders of Stitch Fix, Levi's, Poppi and more. Follow along at the Modern Retail Twitter account for takeaways. Oct. 17-19
Path to Purchase Institute Live: Top brands and retailers like Kroger, Mondelez and General Mills gather in Chicago. The event features curated sessions, an expo showcase, networking and more. Focus topics include retail media, BevAlc, omnishopper and more. Oct. 18-20
Economic Indicators
The focus of this week's data on the economy turns to housing. This is a key area both for the home goods industry, and the consumer economy as a whole at a time when the Federal Reserve is making moves to cool demand to bring down inflation. Last month, Chairman Jerome Powell said that the housing market will likely need a “correction” to get supply and demand back into balance.
- New residential construction will be reported by the US Commerce Department. Wed., Oct. 19, 8:30 a.m.
- Existing home sales will be reported by the National Association of Realtors. Thurs., Oct. 20, 10 a.m.
Earnings
Third quarter earnings season swings into full gear with a number of bellwether brands in consumer goods, tech and more. Here’s a look at reporting companies relevant for ecommerce and retail:
- Mon., Oct. 17: Bank of America
- Tues., Oct. 18: Netflix, Albertsons, Johnson & Johnson, Hasbro, Omnicom
- Wed., Oct. 19: Procter & Gamble, Tesla, Prologis
- Thurs., Oct 20: Snap
- Fri., Oct 21: American Express, Verizon, Simply Good Foods
