Walmart said on Tuesday it was partnering with OpenAI to enable customers and Sam’s Club members to shop directly within ChatGPT, using the AI chatbot’s Instant Checkout feature.
Reuters
Shares of the company rose 5% to $107.21 at market close following the announcement.
The world’s largest retailer is expanding its use of artificial intelligence as companies across sectors adopt the technology to simplify tasks and cut costs.
Walmart has announced AI tools, including generative AI-powered ‘Sparky,’ which is available on its app to assist customers with product suggestions or summarizing product reviews, among other options.
The company’s growing investment in AI is also aimed at closing the gap with online behemoth Amazon, which had a head start with its chatbot, Rufus, a Gen AI-powered shopping assistant that answers various shopping queries.
Walmart’s tie-up with the ChatGPT-maker follows a similar partnership OpenAI announced last month with Etsy and Shopify.
About 15% of total referral traffic for Walmart in September was from ChatGPT, up from 9.5% in August, data from SimilarWeb showed.
However, referrals are only a minor source of traffic and ChatGPT referrals accounted for less than 1% of total web traffic for Walmart, the research firm said.
Clinical skincare brand Drmtlgy will make its brick-and-mortar debut at Ulta Beauty on December 26, rolling out to nearly all of the retailer’s more than 1,400 U.S. stores and online.
Drmtlgy makes retail debut at Ulta Beauty. – Drmtlgy
The exclusive launch marks a major expansion for the fast-growing brand, which is known for its evidence-based, dermatologist-trusted formulations. Through Ulta Beauty’s national footprint, Drmtlgy aims to broaden access to its technology-driven skincare and reach new consumers seeking clinically proven results.
“Joining Ulta Beauty marks an incredible milestone in Drmtlgy’s journey. Our mission has always been to bridge the gap between dermatological efficacy and everyday accessibility, and Ulta’s national presence allows us to do just that,” said Scott Futterman, co-founder & CEO of Drmtlgy.
“We’re excited to introduce our most-loved products to new customers across the country who are seeking real, clinically proven results.”
Founded by dermatology veterans, Drmtlgy develops and manufactures its products at an FDA-registered facility in Los Angeles, drawing on more than two decades of formulation and production experience. The brand has built a strong following among dermatologists, skincare professionals and consumers for delivering clinical-level performance without luxury pricing.
The Ulta Beauty launch will feature a curated assortment of 13 of Drmtlgy’s best-selling products, including the Luminous Eye Corrector, Needle-less Serum, Peptide Night Cream, and the Pumpkin Enzyme Mask.. Additional products, including the Advanced Neck Cream and SmrtSun Broad Spectrum SPF 45, will also join the lineup later in February.
“At Ulta Beauty, we continue to deepen our leadership in science-backed skincare by introducing brands that deliver meaningful, long-term skin benefits,” said Lisa Tamburello, vice president of merchandising at Ulta Beauty.
“Drmtlgy fills a key need in our assortment for medical-grade skincare that supports skin longevity, combining dermatologist-developed formulas with accessible price points. This launch reflects our commitment to meeting guests where they are in their skin journey – with trusted solutions designed to protect, strengthen, and maintain skin health over time.”
Gordon Brothers has made a majority investment in the intellectual property of the Rachel Zoe brand and its related consumer business, adding the fashion and lifestyle label to its growing portfolio of licensed brands.
Gordon Brothers takes majority stake in Rachel Zoe brand. – Mark Hanson
Under the terms of the deal, Gordon Brothers will lead the next phase of growth for the Rachel Zoe business by strategically developing the licensing business to expand product categories, experiences and distribution points.
“Rachel is an influential entrepreneur and global fashion authority who has grown her brand and broadened her cultural footprint across fashion, media and consumer lifestyle spaces,” said Tobias Nanda, head of brands at Gordon Brothers.
“We are excited to add Rachel Zoe to our portfolio of brands and partner with Rachel to build upon the legacy she has created.”
The Rachel Zoe Collection launched in 2011 with its first ready-to-wear line, and has since grown into a lifestyle brand including apparel, home, fragrance, eyewear, and children’s and baby products.
Rachel Zoe will remain closely involved with the brand as a significant shareholder, founder and chief creative officer, and a member of the board of directors.
“I am beyond thrilled to announce this new strategic partnership,” said Zoe.
“Gordon Brothers was the right fit to take the Rachel Zoe brand to the next level given the firm’s deep experience in growing global brands through licensing partnerships, innovative product development, creative marketing and operational expertise.”
Birkenstock has opened its 15th company-owned retail store in the United States, expanding its presence in the Boston area with a new location in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts.
Birkenstock expands in Boston with new store in Massachusetts. – Birkenstock
Located at The Street Chestnut Hill, 27 Boylston Street, the new store’s design draws on Birkenstock’s heritage, incorporating natural materials such as cork, felt, and leather to create a warm, tactile retail environment.
It houses a full assortment of products for women, men, and children, including Birkenstock’s signature sandals and clogs, as well as sneakers, shoes, boots, socks, and more. The location also features the brand’s Care Essentials collection, which includes foot and body care products.
The opening follows the brand’s Boston-area Newbury Street store launch last year and reflects continued investment in brick-and-mortar retail across key U.S. markets.
“Chestnut Hill is a natural next step for us in the Boston area. This new space allows us to bring Birkenstock to both our loyal fans and those just discovering the brand, furthering our connection to an area that has embraced us for generations,” said David Kahan, president and managing director, Birkenstock Americas.
The opening also comes as Birkenstock approaches the 50th anniversary of its Boston clog, set for 2026, underscoring the brand’s continued relevance and growth in the U.S. market.