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.

Areas of expertise include:
• Company financial performance
• Technology deployments
• Supply chain strategies
• Product marketing, merchandising and procurement
• Retail real estate, design and construction
• Labor issues

Latest—

Restaurant Chain PDQ Exec on Using (Labor-Saving) Self-Ordering Kiosks to Drive Sales

Kiosk technology boosts average order size, improves efficiencies, and more, says Bryan Groc, Senior Vice President of Data Analytics for the fast-casual chicken chain.

Trendy Startup PopUp Bagels’ New CEO on Its National Growth Strategy

The disruptor is betting on a highly efficient format for its “rip and dip” bagels that departs from typical quick-service chains as it expands, Tory Bartlett tells CO—.

Fabletics President on Turning Online Shoppers Into Buyers

Social proof messaging boosts conversion rates for athleisure apparel brand, Ashley Kechter tells CO—.

Salesforce, Intuit, and ADP Execs on AI-Powered Solutions Designed to Fuel SMB Growth in 2025

Streamlining everyday tasks using automated agents allows companies to focus on other areas of their business, executives told CO—.

How Eco-Diaper Disruptor Kudos Landed Target as It Courts Millennial Parents

Founder and former Procter & Gamble Engineer Amrita Saigal discusses how the on-trend startup found the perfect partner to support its brick-and-mortar debut.

How Retailers Are Tapping AI to Mitigate the High Cost of Product Returns

Technology is helping merchants cut costs by helping customers make more informed purchasing decisions, identifying “trusted buyers,” streamlining logistics, and minimizing fraud.

Let's Get 'Phygital': Fitness Centers Boost Membership via On-Site Virtual Classes from Martial Arts to Barre

Remote-led sessions offer variety, flexibility, and community for health-and-wellness-conscious consumers.

GOOD COMPANY » LAUNCH PAD

Holiday Shopping Marketing Trends Predict 2026 Retail Trends

A bifurcated economy, social commerce, AI, and support for small businesses are all influencing holiday shopping, reflecting the trends poised to shape consumer spending next year.

GOOD COMPANY » LAUNCH PAD

Experts Share Proven Ways to Fight Retail Theft This Holiday Season

Retailers may consider a range of tactics to deter shoplifting, from visible cameras to employee training to AI.

Indie Game Companies Seek Growth Opportunities with Social Media Platform

Advances in technology and a consumer craving for heightened communal experiences drive innovation in multiplayer gaming for brands including Rune, Innersloth, and Loftia.