In today’s top retail news, Casey’s General Stores reported rising same-store sales, while text messaging upstart Attentive is purchasing Massachusetts-based Tone. Plus, video-streaming network Shopflix rolled out Wednesday (June 9).
Casey’s Sales Rise As More Guests Shop Inside Stores
Casey’s General Stores announced that inside same-store sales were up by roughly 13 percent for the fourth quarter of 2021 as “inside guest counts steadily improved.” In addition, the convenience store firm reported a 33-cent per gallon fuel margin during that time. As for its overall results, Casey’s General Stores reported $1.12 in diluted earnings per share for Q4.
Attentive Acquires Conversational B2C Text Messaging Firm Tone
Attentive, the text messaging upstart, is buying Massachusetts-based Tone, which focuses on artificial intelligence (AI)-bolstered human text message conversations. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Tone Founder and CEO Tivan Amour told PYMNTS that tie-up discussions were hatched roughly a year ago on the suggestion of a mutual customer at a time when customer communication preferences were evolving.
Shopflix Taps Into Livestreaming eCommerce Trend With New Platform
Shopflix launched Wednesday (June 9) as merchants and brands are tapping into new channels such as livestreaming to sell and highlight merchandise. To that end, Shopflix works as a “retail partner and content creator” for brands. And, for consumers, the network offers 24/7 shoppable video content. “At Shopflix, we care about telling engaging stories of brands and brand founders above all else, which differentiates us from other shopping networks and livestreaming events,” Shopflix Co-Founder Lindsey Kilbride said in an announcement.
Amazon Prime Members Can Buy 6-Month Prescriptions For $6
Amazon is entering the fray of prescription discount offerings, aiming to get a piece of the $360 billion U.S. medication market with its six-month plan for Prime members beginning at $6. The eCommerce retailer’s new offering is designed for consumers who lack health insurance or have either high out-of-pocket prescription co-pays or high deductibles.