Mark Hamstra

CONTRIBUTOR

About Mark

Mark Hamstra is a freelance business writer with experience covering a range of topics and industries, including food and mass retailing, the restaurant industry, direct/mobile marketing, and technology. Before becoming a freelance business journalist, Mark spent 13 years with Supermarket News, most recently as content director, where he was involved in all areas of editorial planning and production for print and online. Earlier in his career he also worked as a reporter and editor for other business publications, including Financial Technology, Direct Marketing News, Nation’s Restaurant News and Drug Store News. \nAreas of expertise include:\n• Company financial performance\n• Technology deployments\n• Supply chain strategies\n• Product marketing, merchandising and procurement\n• Retail real estate, design and construction\n• Labor issues

Latest—

Mastercard, Affirm, and Klarna Lean Into SMB and Millennial Market Demands to Unlock Growth

Execs from the financial services firms on easing access to capital for small businesses, expanding buy now, pay later options, and driving cost savings via AI to fuel growth.

Businesses Large and Small Tap Multibillion-Dollar Retail Media Network Trend for Growth

In-store platforms from DICK’s Sporting Goods to Instacart expand to provide advertisers more access to consumers in the final stages of their purchasing decisions.

New Tech Helps J.C. Penney Meet Its Workers’ Financial and Scheduling Needs

Chief Human Resources Officer Andre Joyner on how the retailer’s new employment solutions app boosted supply chain employees’ feelings of empowerment and job satisfaction.

Companies Embrace Tech to Hyper-Personalize Travel Experiences

Companies From Hilton Hotels to Vail Resorts and United Airlines are allowing customers to personalize their own experiences.

How Mark Cuban and Amazon's Online Pharmacies Unlock Growth Opportunities for All

Execs from the e-commerce giant and startups Cost Plus Drugs and Hims & Hers, on driving growth via partnerships, an expanded range of healthcare offerings, and digital convenience.

Holiday Trends Your Business Should Know for Black Friday 2023 (and Beyond)

Millennials and Gen Z drive self-gifting trend, as AI-personalized shopping tools take flight — underscoring growth opportunities for marketers this holiday selling season.

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Small Business Saturday

Small Business Saturday falls on the last Saturday of November. Here’s what small businesses can do to make the most of the shopping holiday.

Experts Share Holiday Marketing Trends

A focus on offering high-value gift deals, personalized offers, sustainability, and human customer service are among this year’s potential winning strategies for retailers and brands, analysts say.

How Big Brands Leverage Customer Reviews to Increase Sales

Backpack maker JanSport, underwear brand MeUndies, and La Colombe Coffee Roasters are among the companies tapping tech tools to optimize consumer review content to deliver results.

How 3 Companies Are Monetizing the Street Food Trend

CPG brands and founder-led startups are packaging grocery items inspired by authentic global dishes previously available only from local street vendors, food trucks, and restaurants.