Going out of business and being liquidated doesn’t hold the same weight it once did. Today, brands with any level of name recognition often find themselves resurrected, leading to the phenomenon of “zombie brands” that capitalize on the nostalgia and popularity of their predecessors. The Sharper Image Example Take Sharper Image, for instance. While all…

Craft-beer-themed restaurants like BJ’s and Yard House have thrived by pairing their extensive beer selections with diverse food offerings. BJ’s started in 1978 as a Chicago deep-dish pizza joint in Southern California and later pivoted to craft beer. Similarly, Yard House launched in 1996 in Southern California, boasting over 100 beers on tap. Currently, BJ’s…

The fast-casual restaurant segment has faced significant challenges since the Covid-19 pandemic forced widespread shutdowns across the nation. While many establishments adapted by pivoting to delivery, takeout, and drive-thru models, the financial repercussions of closing dining rooms led numerous chains to seek bankruptcy protection. The Impact of Financial Distress Some restaurants took years to succumb…

Wall Street is experiencing a recovery, buoyed by encouraging corporate earnings reports. E-commerce giant Shopify reported a robust 21% increase in second-quarter revenue, exceeding expectations. Meanwhile, Lyft not only surpassed sales forecasts but also achieved a net profit for the first time in its history. Disney Streaming Service Reaches Profitability In another notable milestone, Walt…

For many consumers, the quest for beauty has turned into a potentially deadly nightmare. Each year, billions are spent on hair products, particularly chemical relaxers designed to straighten curly hair. With over 10.5 million annual users in the U.S. alone, the hair relaxer industry is both lucrative and controversial. A Growing Legal Battle Thousands of…

Costco customers are well aware of the routine: to enter a store, you must show your membership card to a staff member at the door. Soon, however, Costco will implement a new requirement for customers to scan their membership cards at store entrances. New Scanning System The retail giant, which operates 882 locations worldwide—611 in…

In recent years, furniture retail chains have grappled with significant financial challenges due to high inflation, rising interest rates, and shifting consumer attitudes. These factors have forced several companies to seek bankruptcy protection, with many filing under Chapter 11 or Chapter 7. Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams In August 2023, high-end furniture maker and retailer…

The landscape for discounters operating under the dollar-store model has become increasingly challenging. Supply chain issues and rising costs have compelled many companies to move away from the traditional dollar price point, which was often limiting. Instead, numerous chains have shifted to a value-based model, expanding their price ranges to attract budget-conscious consumers. Competing with…