Executive Summary

• This week’s note “From the Desk of Deborah Weinswig” recounts the retail insights shared by Macy’s Executive Chairman Terry Lundgren and Debenhams Chairman Sir Ian Cheshire at the World Retail Congress this week in Dubai.
• Avery Dennison has announced a global radio frequency identification (RFID) partnership with Target. The agreement is part of Target’s deployment of RFID technology to more than 1,600 stores to help maximize inventory availability and deliver an enhanced guest experience.
• Coty announced that it has entered into an agreement to acquire the long-term global licensing rights for Burberry’s beauty and fragrances business for $162 million, plus a $63 million payment for inventory.
• WeChat, China’s most popular social media platform, is planning to expand its e-commerce and payment services for brands in Europe. The company wants to work with European brands to enable them to sell their products through its Chinese online retail platform.