The Weekender news and trends

Pickleball’s Rapid Expansion Gets Lobbed into the Digital World 
The Weekender // October 12, 2024

Pickleball’s meteoric rise to popularity isn’t a solely physical-world phenomenon anymore. Now, the sport is getting kick-served into cyberspace. QVC — yes, the shopping network — is bringing the sport to streaming with a new partnership with USA Pickleball, the national governing body for the...

The Automat Is Back, Thanks to the Rise of Self-Service (Again) 
Automated Retail // February 03, 2024

Self-service technology is bringing us full-circle — the automat seems to be making a comeback around the world.  The automat, which readers may know only from its appearance in mid-century period series such as “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” and “Mad Men,” offered a speedy, convenient restaurant...

Would You Brave a Stampede for Love or a Stanley Cup?
Retail // January 06, 2024

Would you brave crowds and the possibility of getting trampled in the name of love this Valentine’s Day? All to secure the newest Stanley tumbler for your loved one? Stanley’s vividly colored, large, reusable water bottles have garnered a dedicated TikTok following. Customers are enamored...

Pops of Pink and a Dash of Taylor Swift: Resolutions Retailers Must Make for 2024
Retail // December 30, 2023

A few years ago, many consumers focused on enhancing their beauty routines, setting up home offices, and engaging in at-home fitness activities, with companies like Mirror, Peloton and Tonal gaining popularity due to the pandemic. The trend prompted brands and retailers to emphasize health and...