All Activity

More than a third of consumers – including nearly 4 in 10 Gen Z users – have ditched Google Search in favor of Pinterest’s visual-first search experience, according to a new Adobe survey. And businesses are following their lead to capture traffic and engagement. By the numbers. Thirty-six percent of consumers said they start searches on Pinterest instead of Google. That includes 39% Gen Z users. Other findings: 39% of consumers use Pinterest as a search engine. 24% of business owners use Pinterest – and nearly a quarter of those businesses plan to boost ad spending on Pinterest this year. 80% of businesses say Pinterest drives more engagement than other search platforms – including Google Search. Why we care. Like TikTok and Instagram, Pinterest is reshaping how people – Gen Z and women in particular – discover products and ideas online. Despite an AI slop problem, Pinterest seems to have carved out a niche in the search universe thanks to its visual search, curated results, and shopping-friendly interface. Why Pinterest. People search Pinterest for recipes, design tips, DIY ideas, and product or service recommendations. Visual and personalized search have helped win over consumers, according to the survey: 73% said the visual nature of Pinterest results makes it better than traditional search. 61% said the results feel more tailored than Google’s. Among Gen Z, that number was 71%. 26% say they rarely see low-quality or AI-generated content on Pinterest. Brands are taking notice. Pinterest is outperforming other platforms when it comes to consumer interaction – 80% of business users said Pinterest drove better engagement than any other platform and Pinterest beats Facebook (49%), Instagram (35%), and Google Search (29%) for driving actions. Here’s why businesses – especially small ones – are tapping into Pinterest to drive traffic and get noticed, according to the survey: 76% of Pinterest-using businesses focus on driving web traffic. 57% use it to build brand awareness. Most effective content? Standard image Pins (61%), followed by idea Pins (37%), and Video Pins (27%). Yes, but. Brands are facing challenges on Pinterest, such as creating enough fresh content and understanding how to rank in Pinterest search: 61% of business owners say they don’t have time to make content. Nearly half struggle with Pinterest SEO. About the survey. Adobe surveyed 800 consumers and 200 business owners on March 12. Respondents included Gen Z (16%), millennials (51%), Gen X (25%), and baby boomers (9%). The report. Pinterest is emerging as a go-to search engine View the full article

Google Lighthouse audits are changing. Learn which tests are merging, disappearing, and how to prepare your SEO workflows before these changes take effect. The post Google Lighthouse To Undergo Major Audit Overhaul: What To Know appeared first on Search Engine Journal. View the full article

Shares of Kohl’s Corporation (NYSE: KSS) were up nearly 10% on Thursday after the company fired CEO Ashley Buchanan after just four months on the job, appointing Chairman Michael Bender as interim chief executive officer effective immediately. Buchanan’s termination comes after an investigation by Kohl’s‘ board found he violated the company’s code of conduct twice, and was involved in undisclosed conflicts of interest stemming from a personal relationship with a vendor, according to the Wall Street Journal. “Buchanan’s termination is unrelated to the Company’s performance, financial reporting, results of operations and did not involve any other Company personnel,” Kohl’s explained in a statement. The former CEO had a total compensation package worth more than $20 million, according to USA Today. Bender and other company executives held an all-hands meeting on Thursday to address the changes and reassure staff, the WSJ reported. Bender’s appointment as interim CEO makes him the fourth CEO in three years to head the struggling retailer, which continues to face declining sales. In connection with the leadership announcement on Thursday, Kohl’s provided preliminary expectations for its first quarter financial results, forecasting sales would likely be down around 4%. It reports those earnings at the end of the month, on May 29 at 9:00 a.m. Like many retailers, Kohl’s has been struggling with declining sales and decreasing foot traffic, as consumers spend less money due to the skyrocketing cost of living, and spend less time shopping in stores versus online. View the full article

IDEAS shared have the power to expand perspectives, change thinking, and move lives. Here are two ideas for the curious mind to engage with: I. Richard Boyatzis and Annie McKee on prisons of our own making: “When we are in a downward emotional spiral, feeling confused, unhappy, or ill at ease, we often end up playing and replaying mental ‘tapes’ that actually accentuate our negative emotions and feelings of hopelessness. When we are feeling down over a long period of time, this self-talk centers on messages that undermine us and, in turn, our power to change bad situations (‘It’s not my fault’ ‘My life will never be really happy’) or messages that weaken our sense of efficacy (‘This situation is beyond my control, I’m just stuck with it’). “When we get caught in this prison of our own making, we lose the ability to see ourselves, others, or our environments as they really are. We see the world through filters that may not have a basis in reality, and we begin to make decisions based on what we think rather than what is. We forget to engage in that other kind of self-talk: hopeful, affirming thoughts about ourselves and compassion for others.” Source: Resonant Leadership: Renewing Yourself and Connecting with Others Through Mindfulness, Hope, and Compassion II. Jonathan Brill on random change: “There are two interrelated reasons that you can control and profit from randomness. The first is that what’s unpredictable at one scale is often quite reliable at another. The second is that while random changes occur, they often self-organize into a reliable result.” Source: Rogue Waves: Future-Proof Your Business to Survive and Profit from Radical Change * * * Look for these ideas every Thursday on the Leading Blog. Find more ideas on the LeadingThoughts index. * * * Follow us on Instagram and X for additional leadership and personal development ideas. View the full article

Microsoft has announced that Skype will officially shut down on May 5, 2025. After this date, users will no longer be able to access Skype services, including messaging, calls, or voicemail. However, your Skype data — including chat and call history — will be available for export or deletion until January 2026. If you log into Microsoft Teams Free before January 2026, your Skype call and chat history will transfer automatically. If you take no action, your Skype data will be permanently deleted in January 2026. If you’re a business owner, entrepreneur, or freelancer who still relies on Skype, it’s critical to act now to avoid disruptions in your operations and daily routines. Here’s what you should do before May 5: 1. Export Your Chat History and Important Files Skype offers an option to download your chat history and shared files. This is crucial if you have important contracts, project notes, or client conversations stored in Skype. Visit Skype’s export tool. Request your files and messages. Download them once ready — it may take several hours to process. Tip: Back up your downloads to both a cloud service and an external drive for added security. 2. Consider Moving to Microsoft Teams Free Since Microsoft is encouraging migration to Teams: Set up a Microsoft Teams Free account. Log in before January 2026 to automatically carry over your Skype chat and call history. Familiarize yourself with Teams’ interface if you plan to use it. Tip: Teams is especially useful if you already rely on Microsoft 365 products. 3. Notify Your Contacts Don’t leave clients or partners wondering how to reach you. Send an announcement about the upcoming change. Specify your new communication method (Zoom, Teams, Google Meet, etc.). Update your email signature, website, and social profiles accordingly. Tip: Proactively reschedule any future appointments set for Skype onto the new platform. 4. Choose and Set Up a New Communication Platform If you’re not moving to Teams, explore alternatives: Zoom – Best for video meetings. Google Meet – Integrates smoothly with Google Workspace. Slack or Discord – Ideal for ongoing chat-based collaboration. WhatsApp Business – Good for mobile-friendly client communication. Tip: Test the platform before going live with important meetings. 5. Update Business Systems and Workflows If Skype was tied into your customer service, CRM, or internal systems: Remove Skype plugins or integrations. Install and configure your replacement tool. Test all workflows to ensure uninterrupted operations. Tip: Host a small internal test meeting before using the new platform externally. 6. Cancel Paid Skype Subscriptions If you pay for Skype Credit, international calling, or Skype Numbers: Visit your Skype account dashboard. Cancel any active subscriptions. Request a refund if applicable. Tip: Review your most recent billing statements to ensure nothing is missed. 7. Archive Voicemails and Contacts If you used Skype’s voicemail or stored contacts: Forward or download voicemails you want to keep. Export your contact list so you can import it into your new platform. Tip: Keep a local backup just in case the export doesn’t import cleanly. Skype’s shutdown marks the end of an era in digital communications. To avoid losing valuable data or communication capabilities, act now: export your data, move to a new platform, and notify your network. If you want to retain your Skype history beyond shutdown, log into Microsoft Teams Free before January 2026 — otherwise, your Skype data will be deleted permanently. This article, "Skype Is Shutting Down on May 5: Here’s What Business Owners Need to Do Now" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Microsoft has announced that Skype will officially shut down on May 5, 2025. After this date, users will no longer be able to access Skype services, including messaging, calls, or voicemail. However, your Skype data — including chat and call history — will be available for export or deletion until January 2026. If you log into Microsoft Teams Free before January 2026, your Skype call and chat history will transfer automatically. If you take no action, your Skype data will be permanently deleted in January 2026. If you’re a business owner, entrepreneur, or freelancer who still relies on Skype, it’s critical to act now to avoid disruptions in your operations and daily routines. Here’s what you should do before May 5: 1. Export Your Chat History and Important Files Skype offers an option to download your chat history and shared files. This is crucial if you have important contracts, project notes, or client conversations stored in Skype. Visit Skype’s export tool. Request your files and messages. Download them once ready — it may take several hours to process. Tip: Back up your downloads to both a cloud service and an external drive for added security. 2. Consider Moving to Microsoft Teams Free Since Microsoft is encouraging migration to Teams: Set up a Microsoft Teams Free account. Log in before January 2026 to automatically carry over your Skype chat and call history. Familiarize yourself with Teams’ interface if you plan to use it. Tip: Teams is especially useful if you already rely on Microsoft 365 products. 3. Notify Your Contacts Don’t leave clients or partners wondering how to reach you. Send an announcement about the upcoming change. Specify your new communication method (Zoom, Teams, Google Meet, etc.). Update your email signature, website, and social profiles accordingly. Tip: Proactively reschedule any future appointments set for Skype onto the new platform. 4. Choose and Set Up a New Communication Platform If you’re not moving to Teams, explore alternatives: Zoom – Best for video meetings. Google Meet – Integrates smoothly with Google Workspace. Slack or Discord – Ideal for ongoing chat-based collaboration. WhatsApp Business – Good for mobile-friendly client communication. Tip: Test the platform before going live with important meetings. 5. Update Business Systems and Workflows If Skype was tied into your customer service, CRM, or internal systems: Remove Skype plugins or integrations. Install and configure your replacement tool. Test all workflows to ensure uninterrupted operations. Tip: Host a small internal test meeting before using the new platform externally. 6. Cancel Paid Skype Subscriptions If you pay for Skype Credit, international calling, or Skype Numbers: Visit your Skype account dashboard. Cancel any active subscriptions. Request a refund if applicable. Tip: Review your most recent billing statements to ensure nothing is missed. 7. Archive Voicemails and Contacts If you used Skype’s voicemail or stored contacts: Forward or download voicemails you want to keep. Export your contact list so you can import it into your new platform. Tip: Keep a local backup just in case the export doesn’t import cleanly. Skype’s shutdown marks the end of an era in digital communications. To avoid losing valuable data or communication capabilities, act now: export your data, move to a new platform, and notify your network. If you want to retain your Skype history beyond shutdown, log into Microsoft Teams Free before January 2026 — otherwise, your Skype data will be deleted permanently. This article, "Skype Is Shutting Down on May 5: Here’s What Business Owners Need to Do Now" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Google announced a new series of multi-day events called Deep Dive for in-depth coverage of the technical and marketing sides of SEO The post Google Is Launching Search Central Deep Dive Events appeared first on Search Engine Journal. View the full article

Planning an event involves many moving parts, each generating costs that must be carefully tracked. Whether it’s venue rentals, equipment, catering or staffing, event planners need a structured approach to budgeting. Without a well-organized budget, costs can spiral out of control, leading to financial surprises. To simplify this process, an event budget template can help keep track of all expenses. Our Google Sheets event budget template provides an easy-to-use format for logging estimated and actual costs, ensuring your event stays within budget. Why Use an Event Budget Template for Google Sheets? Google Sheets is an excellent tool for creating an event budget because it’s free, online and allows real-time collaboration. Unlike static spreadsheets, Google Sheets makes it easy to update costs, add new budget categories and share data with your team. This flexibility ensures that all stakeholders stay informed about budget updates. Our event budget template in Google Sheets is designed to track activities and their associated costs. Each task includes: Estimated labor and material costs to plan financial allocations A vendor/contractor column to note outsourced services An actual cost column to compare estimates with real expenses, making post-event analysis easier However, ProjectManager is a much better way to plan, schedule and track the completion of events. That’s because ProjectManager offers award-winning tools such as Gantt charts, real-time dashboards, workload management charts, timesheets and project calendars equipped with robust features to schedule events, create an event budget, manage tasks and track event costs. Get started with ProjectManager for free today. /wp-content/uploads/2023/04/event-plan-gantt-chart-light-mode-CTA-1600x787.jpgLearn more Free Event Budget Template for Google Sheets The best way to determine if this event budget template for Google Sheets is a good fit for your team is to try it and compare it against other similar alternatives, such as event planning templates for Excel or project management software. To do so, click the image below to access this template for free, then make a copy so you can edit it. /wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Event-budget-template-for-Google-Sheets.png Simply fill out the fields to identify the tasks that need to be executed to carry out your event and all their estimated costs. Then you can log the actual cost of those event activities as your event is executed to determine if there are any cost overruns. Event Budget Template for Google Sheets: Pros & Cons While Google Sheets provides a convenient and accessible way to manage event budgets, it comes with advantages and limitations. Below, we break down the pros and cons of using our event budget template in Google Sheets. Pros of Making an Event Budget in Google Sheets Using Google Sheets for event budgeting offers several benefits: Free and cloud-based: No need for expensive event planning software; accessible from any device Real-time collaboration: Multiple team members can view and edit the budget simultaneously Customizable format: Modify the template to suit specific event cost management needs Automatic calculations: Built-in formulas help prevent manual math errors Easy data export: Can be downloaded as an Excel spreadsheet or PDF for reporting Cons of Making an Event Budget in Google Sheets Despite its advantages, Google Sheets has some drawbacks as an event budgeting tool: Limited automation: Lacks advanced financial tracking features found in dedicated project budgeting tools Manual data entry: Requires frequent updates to stay accurate Potential formatting issues: Large datasets may become hard to navigate and are better displayed on dashboards Internet dependency: Requires an online connection for full functionality No built-in cost analysis tools: Doesn’t provide detailed financial insights like some specialized software ProjectManager’s Budgeting Features are Better than an Event Budget Template for Google Sheets This event budget template for Google Sheets helps event planners estimate event costs and compare them against actual costs to monitor the financial health of an event, but it falls short when compared to ProjectManager’s resource planning, budgeting and cost tracking features. Here’s a quick overview of some tools that make ProjectManager a better event budgeting solution. Multiple Event Planning Tools ProjectManager offers powerful project management tools ideal for event planning, such as Gantt charts, kanban boards, task lists and project calendars, which allow you to create event schedules, assign tasks to team members and monitor progress. These tools automatically sync with online timesheets, workload management charts and event management dashboards to visualize high-level event planning data. /wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Construction-Gantt-light-mode-task-info-general-1600x858.jpg Advanced Resource Management and Cost Tracking Features ProjectManage allows event planners to allocate and schedule resources, estimate their costs, create an event budget and compare cost estimates against actual event costs. Managers can also balance their team’s workload using interactive workload management charts and log employee work hours using online timesheets. /wp-content/uploads/2024/05/workload-page-resource-management-lightmode-1600x785.png How to Use This Free Event Budget Template for Google Sheets Now let’s review the contents of this event budget template for Google Sheets to better understand how it works. 1. Identify All Event Planning Activities Event planning involves numerous tasks across different areas, including venue setup, equipment rentals, travel and accommodation, marketing, staffing, food and catering and entertainment. Listing all these activities helps ensure no cost is overlooked, allowing for a complete and well-organized budget. /wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Event-budget-template-event-planning-tasks.png 2. List Vendors or Contractors Each event planning activity will likely involve vendors or contractors, such as caterers, equipment suppliers or entertainers. Identifying these service providers ensures accountability and helps track who is responsible for each aspect of the event plan. Proper documentation of vendors also allows for better cost management and negotiation opportunities. /wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Event-budget-template-vendors-and-contractors.png 3. Log Planned Costs This template enables event planners to enter estimated labor and material costs for every task. By logging planned costs, you can allocate resources effectively and set financial expectations. This helps prevent overspending and ensures that each category remains within its designated budget. /wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Event-budget-template-estimated-costs.png 4. Compare Planned vs. Actual Costs Tracking actual expenses against planned costs helps event planners determine whether they are staying within budget. This comparison is crucial for identifying cost variances early and making necessary adjustments. It also provides valuable insights for future event planning, allowing for better budgeting strategies and cost control. /wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Event-budget-template-actual-costs.png More Project Management Templates for Google Sheets Google Sheets is a helpful tool for event planning teams as it provides an online platform that allows team members to collaborate more efficiently than traditional spreadsheet software like Excel. Here are other free project management Google Sheets templates that can be used with this event budget template. Google Sheets Timeline Template This free Google Sheets timeline template is ideal for visualizing event planning activities, their due dates and the sequence in which they need to be executed, which facilitates creating an event schedule. Google Sheets To Do List Template As stated above, events involve a lot of activities that can fall through the cracks if they’re not properly documented. This free Google Sheets to-do list template helps event planners log any tasks and track their completion. Google Sheets Kanban Board Template This free Google Sheets kanban board template helps event planners track the completion of event tasks by defining the stages of completion they go through and then using kanban cards to reflect their progress. Related Event Planning Content A successful event requires thorough planning, scheduling and budgeting, which is why we have dozens of blogs, templates and guides that can help master all the different areas of event management. Here are some of them. 12 Free Event Planning Templates for Excel and Word How to Create an Event Budget How to Plan an Event: Event Planning Steps, Tips & Checklist Event Budget Template for Excel Event Proposal Template for Word Event Plan Template Gantt Chart for Event Planning If you’re looking for an event planning tool that can go the distance, try ProjectManager. Our software is fully loaded with all the resource management, scheduling, budgeting and cost tracking features listed above and more to help you plan, track and report on your events. Stay on track and work more productively. Get started with ProjectManager for free. The post Event Budget Template for Google Sheets appeared first on ProjectManager. View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. The Steam Deck makes your PC games feel like they were built for handheld gaming, but it's kind of like a fancy illusion. Under the hood, the Steam Deck is essentially a Linux PC that employs a user interface made for a controller. What that means is that you, the user, can easily dive under that hood with Steam's Desktop interface and start modding and tweaking your games, just like you would on a regular gaming PC. When you're in Desktop mode, you'll find a full Linux desktop environment (specifically, KDE Plasma) complete with Firefox for browsing the web, a file manager, and the full desktop Steam interface. While it works a little differently than something like Windows, if you're used to tweaking settings or modifying your game files in Steam, this mode will seem familiar. This is also the mode you'll need to access if you want to install third-party launchers, mod your games, or run emulators. There's so much power waiting for you behind a simple change in interface. Here's how to get started. How to access Desktop modeValve has made it remarkably easy to swap to Desktop mode, and it shouldn't be intimidating to anyone. Here are the steps: Press the Steam button (underneath the left touchpad). Select Power. Select Switch to Desktop. That's it. Easy, right? Keep in mind, this is technically restarting your console, so if you're in the middle of a game, save any progress you have. After a brief black screen, you'll see a desktop UI with a few desktop shortcuts and a toolbar along the bottom. How to navigate the desktop on a Steam DeckWhile you can technically connect a mouse and keyboard to use this as a desktop, you don't have to. There are a few basic controls you'll need to learn, but once you do, you'll be able to navigate just like it was any other PC. The touchscreen. First and foremost, since this is a touchscreen, you can tap directly on anything on the screen. It's not the most precise method, but it should be mentioned up front. The right trackpad is your mouse. Just like the touchpad on your computer, you can use the right trackpad to control the desktop cursor. The left trackpad is your scroll wheel. It can be a little wonky, but swipe up and down on the left trackpad and you can scroll through websites or menus that have focus. Click and right-click with the right and left triggers, respectively. To click on something, press the right trigger. To right-click on something, press the left trigger. Yes, it sounds counterintuitive when you describe it, but once you're doing it, it feels a lot more natural. Press Steam + X to pull up the on-screen keyboard. This is the least intuitive part of the interface, but if you need to enter text, press Steam + X. This shortcut will invoke the virtual keyboard. You can then dismiss it when you're done by pressing the keyboard icon on the bottom right. These basic controls will let you navigate the vast majority of the desktop interface. It might feel a little cumbersome at first, but you get the hang of it quickly. With that in mind, you can start messing around in your Steam Deck's files. Install non-Steam game launchersSteam might be the default official game store for the Steam Deck, but you can technically install others. In the past, this was a bit of a hassle, but long-suffering volunteers have made tools to make it easier than ever. You can install launchers like GOG Galaxy and even Epic Games Store with a little effort. Keep in mind that none of these are officially supported, and you should research install methods specifically for the Steam Deck to get them working. The Steam Deck runs on a Linux build, and it's only able to run Windows applications through the frankly magic Proton compatibility layer. You're venturing into buggier territory with this path, but you can find access to a ton of games you couldn't have otherwise played with the default Steam Deck setup. Start modding your gamesModding is one of the best ways to breathe new life into your favorite games, and Steam is usually super friendly to it. While there's not an easy way to do it from the default Steam Deck, its desktop mode opens that world right up. You can use Firefox to browse popular mod sites like NexusMods and the Dolphin file browser to dig through your game files. Since you can also access the desktop version of Steam, it's easier to go through your game files. Right-click (that is, left trigger) on any game in your Library, select Properties > Installed Files, then click on Browse to pull up the folder where that game's files are located. In some (rare) cases, it can be even easier. NexusMods is currently developing a Steam Deck version of its mod manager app that currently officially supports Stardew Valley, with more games planned for future support. Connect peripherals for the full PC experienceWith the Steam Deck's USB-C port, you can connect a wide range of peripherals that let you effectively turn your Deck into a whole PC. Valve even has an official docking station (though you can also find cheaper ones from companies like Anker). It also supports Bluetooth connections for wireless keyboards and mice. With this you can connect: External monitors. The Steam Deck has a 1280x800 panel (either IPS or OLED, depending on your model), which is great for its size, but it's hardly high res. If you'd rather play your games on something bigger and more detailed, you can connect an external monitor to play on. Keyboards and mice. Obviously, Steam and its games were designed with a PC interface in mind. While the Steam Deck has done a great job of making games feel at home on a handheld, you can always connect a mouse and keyboard as a fallback. This also makes navigating desktop mode easier. External hard drives. One of the biggest downsides of the Steam Deck is its limited storage capacity. Rather than constantly redownloading your games, you can plug in an external drive and swap out your games from there, via desktop mode. You'll save a ton of time (and bandwidth) over deleting and redownloading. Ethernet adapters. The Steam Deck is at its best when you're playing single-player games, in my opinion. However, if you'd like to occasionally use it for online play, you might get better latency over an Ethernet connection. Docking stations can add this functionality while docked without having to invest in a whole laptop. If you only ever use a Steam Deck in handheld mode, you'll probably have a great time. The experience is so refined at this point that you'd be forgiven for thinking every game on Steam was designed with the handheld in mind first. However, if you're willing to brave less conventional waters, the Steam Deck's desktop mode is a gateway to the kind of tinkering power normally reserved for the full-fledged PC crowd. View the full article

Maroš Šefčovič tells FT of ‘certain progress’ but warns bloc will not settle for higher US tariff baseline View the full article

Key Takeaways Efficiency Enhancement: Order management software streamlines and automates the entire order cycle, minimizing manual labor and errors to improve overall business productivity. Improved Customer Satisfaction: By providing real-time order tracking and accurate inventory management, OMS ensures timely deliveries and enhances the customer experience, leading to higher retention rates. Integration Options: Businesses can choose between cloud-based and on-premise solutions, with cloud options offering scalability and flexibility, while on-premise solutions provide greater control and customization. Automation and AI Adoption: The integration of automation and AI technologies revolutionizes order management processes, allowing for predictive analytics that can enhance decision-making and optimize business outcomes. User Training Importance: Successful implementation of order management software relies on effective user training to boost adoption rates and maximize the software’s benefits within the team. Future Trends: The shift towards mobile order management solutions allows businesses to operate flexibly and respond quickly to customer needs, improving overall operational agility. In today’s fast-paced business world, managing orders efficiently can make or break your success. With customers expecting seamless experiences, leveraging the right order management software is crucial. This powerful tool not only streamlines your processes but also enhances customer satisfaction by ensuring timely deliveries and accurate inventory tracking. Imagine having the ability to automate repetitive tasks, reduce errors, and gain real-time insights into your operations. By integrating order management software into your business, you can focus on what truly matters—growing your brand and delighting your customers. Dive into the world of order management software and discover how it can transform your business operations for the better. Overview of Order Management Software Order management software streamlines your business operations by automating and optimizing the entire order cycle. Efficient order management plays a critical role in enabling small businesses to enhance customer satisfaction and improve overall productivity. Definition and Importance Order management software refers to a digital solution that automates your order processing, from order placement to fulfillment. This software is crucial for small businesses aiming to manage workflows effectively and maintain financial stability. It ensures timely deliveries, reduces errors in inventory management, and improves cash flow by providing real-time insights into resources and sales trends. With a unified platform, you can support your business goals and respond quickly to customer feedback, ultimately leading to better retention rates. Key Features to Look For When selecting order management software, focus on the following key features: Inventory Management: Real-time tracking helps prevent stockouts and overstock situations. Automation Tools: Automate repetitive tasks to minimize human error and save time. Order Tracking: Provide customers visibility into their order status, improving customer service. Integration Capabilities: Ensure compatibility with other software tools such as accounting, CRM, and e-commerce platforms. Data Analytics: Leverage business analytics for actionable insights into performance, enabling effective decision-making. Collaboration Features: Facilitate team management and communication to enhance workflow and operational efficiency. Choosing the right order management software can significantly boost your small business’s effectiveness, allowing you to focus on growth and scaling your operations. Types of Order Management Software When selecting order management software, you face two primary options: cloud-based solutions and on-premise solutions. Each type offers distinct advantages that can support your small business in streamlining workflows and enhancing productivity. Cloud-Based Solutions Cloud-based order management systems (OMS) host your order data on remote servers, accessible via the internet. This setup allows you to manage orders from anywhere, ensuring flexibility for you and your team. Scalability and Flexibility: These solutions easily scale with your business growth, accommodating increased order volumes without significant hardware investments. As your operations expand, you can adjust your usage seamlessly. Cost-Effectiveness: Cloud-based OMS often utilize a Software as a Service (SaaS) model, requiring minimal upfront investment. You’ll pay only for the features you use, reducing financial strain on your small business. Collaboration: Teams benefit from real-time access to order data, encouraging effective communication and collaboration. This aspect enhances your operational efficiency and supports strategic planning for future growth. On-Premise Solutions On-premise order management systems provide an alternative by hosting software and data on your internal servers. While this approach offers certain benefits, it also comes with considerations for small businesses. Control and Security: You maintain greater control over your data and systems, which can be critical for sensitive information. However, this control requires robust IT resources for management and maintenance. Upfront Investment: On-premise solutions typically involve higher upfront costs for software licensing and hardware. This aspect may impact your budgeting and cash flow when establishing an OMS. Customization: On-premise systems often offer more customization options, enabling you to tailor software to fit your specific business processes. If you need a highly specialized solution, this could be the right choice. By evaluating both options, you can make a more informed decision about which order management software aligns best with your business goals and operational needs. Benefits of Using Order Management Software Order management software (OMS) offers numerous advantages for small businesses aiming to optimize operations and enhance productivity. Implementing OMS significantly improves your business processes, allowing for efficient order handling, better inventory oversight, and increased customer satisfaction. Improved Efficiency OMS streamlines workflows by automating order fulfillment processes. Automated systems receive orders from multiple channels, process them, and manage picking and posting swiftly. This automation reduces manual labor and minimizes the risk of human error, enhancing operational efficiency. For example, you can expect to decrease order processing time by up to 30%, allowing your team to focus on higher-value tasks. With real-time inventory management, you maintain a clear overview of stock levels, preventing overstocking and understocking issues that can disrupt cash flow. Enhanced Customer Satisfaction Order management software enhances customer service by providing accurate order tracking and timely updates. Immediate access to order statuses allows you to communicate efficiently with customers, boosting their confidence in your business. Additionally, OMS facilitates better inventory management, ensuring that products are available when customers need them, which can lead to increased customer retention and loyalty. A study found that businesses leveraging robust OMS report a 20% improvement in customer satisfaction scores due to timely deliveries and accurate fulfillment. Incorporating order management software into your small business strategy not only drives productivity but also strengthens your position in the market by meeting customer expectations effectively. Challenges in Implementing Order Management Software Implementing order management software (OMS) presents several challenges, especially for small businesses. Understanding these challenges helps you navigate the transition smoothly. Integration with Existing Systems Integration with existing systems poses a significant challenge during OMS implementation. The complexity of integration often requires technical expertise. Your OMS must connect seamlessly with software tools like inventory management, customer relationship management (CRM), and shipping systems. Inconsistencies in data may emerge if integration isn’t handled correctly, affecting order processing and customer service. Ensuring data consistency prevents loss of information and streamlines workflow across your business processes. User Training and Adoption User training and adoption are critical for OMS success. Training your team on how to utilize the new system enhances employee management and boosts productivity. Without adequate training, employees might resist adopting the software, limiting its potential benefits. Developing a structured training program can help your team leverage the OMS effectively. Focus on strengthening communication skills during training to improve collaboration and user engagement. Encouraging feedback during the onboarding process allows you to address concerns and optimize the user experience, ultimately supporting your business goals. Future Trends in Order Management Software Order management software (OMS) is evolving rapidly, especially with the adoption of automation and AI technologies. These advancements play a vital role in enhancing operational efficiency for small businesses. Automation and AI Integration Automation and AI are transforming your order management processes. AI-driven order management enables your business to shift from traditional manual workflows to intelligent, adaptive systems. These systems utilize machine learning algorithms to minimize errors and facilitate real-time decision-making. For example, AI analyzes vast sets of historical and real-time data to detect patterns, predict customer demand, and adjust ordering parameters accordingly. With predictive intelligence, these solutions anticipate disruptions and simulate diverse scenarios, optimizing your outcomes while improving customer service. By embracing these tools, you enhance productivity, streamline workflows, and ultimately support your business growth. Mobile Order Management Solutions Mobile order management solutions offer flexibility, allowing you to manage your business operations from anywhere. These solutions enable team members to track orders, make adjustments, and communicate quickly through their smartphones or tablets. For small businesses, mobile capabilities improve time management and increase responsiveness to customer inquiries or updates. With real-time access to data, you maintain better inventory control, enhance customer retention, and effectively support your strategic planning initiatives. Adopting mobile solutions ensures your team remains agile, improving overall performance while meeting deadlines and customer expectations. Conclusion Investing in order management software can be a game changer for your business. By automating processes and streamlining workflows you not only enhance efficiency but also improve customer satisfaction. The right OMS helps you stay agile in a competitive market allowing you to meet customer expectations consistently. As you explore different options consider your specific needs and the features that align with your goals. Whether you choose a cloud-based or on-premise solution make sure it integrates seamlessly with your existing systems. This will help you avoid common pitfalls and maximize your investment. Embracing these technologies not only drives productivity but also positions your business for future growth. With the right tools in place you can focus on what truly matters—delighting your customers and expanding your market reach. Frequently Asked Questions What is order management software (OMS)? Order management software (OMS) is a digital tool that automates the entire order process, from order placement to fulfillment. It helps businesses streamline their workflows, manage inventories, and deliver timely updates to customers, thus improving overall operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. Why is order management important for small businesses? Efficient order management is crucial for small businesses because it enhances productivity, minimizes errors, and ensures accurate inventory tracking. By automating repetitive tasks, OMS allows small businesses to focus on growth and improving customer relations, ultimately leading to better financial stability. What are the key features to look for in OMS? When selecting order management software, look for features such as inventory management, automation tools, order tracking, integration capabilities, data analytics, and collaboration options. These features help optimize workflows, reduce errors, and improve customer satisfaction. What are the differences between cloud-based and on-premise OMS? Cloud-based OMS offers flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and easier remote access, while on-premise solutions provide better control and data security. Cloud systems typically require less initial investment, whereas on-premise options come with higher costs and require IT management resources. How does OMS enhance customer satisfaction? OMS improves customer satisfaction by providing accurate order tracking and timely updates, reducing the chances of errors and delays. This leads to a more reliable experience, fostering customer loyalty and retention through enhanced communication and fulfillment processes. What challenges do small businesses face when implementing OMS? Small businesses may encounter challenges such as integrating OMS with existing systems, ensuring user adoption, and providing training. A well-structured training program and seamless connectivity with tools like CRM and inventory management are essential for success. How can automation and AI enhance order management? Automation and AI technologies streamline order management by minimizing manual tasks, reducing errors, and facilitating real-time decision making. AI-driven solutions can analyze data to predict demand, optimize ordering, and improve overall operational efficiency. What are mobile order management solutions? Mobile order management solutions enable businesses to manage orders remotely using smartphones and tablets. This flexibility allows team members to track orders and respond to customer inquiries swiftly, improving time management and overall operational agility. Image Via Envato This article, "Boost Your Business Efficiency with Effective Order Management Software Solutions" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Key Takeaways Efficiency Enhancement: Order management software streamlines and automates the entire order cycle, minimizing manual labor and errors to improve overall business productivity. Improved Customer Satisfaction: By providing real-time order tracking and accurate inventory management, OMS ensures timely deliveries and enhances the customer experience, leading to higher retention rates. Integration Options: Businesses can choose between cloud-based and on-premise solutions, with cloud options offering scalability and flexibility, while on-premise solutions provide greater control and customization. Automation and AI Adoption: The integration of automation and AI technologies revolutionizes order management processes, allowing for predictive analytics that can enhance decision-making and optimize business outcomes. User Training Importance: Successful implementation of order management software relies on effective user training to boost adoption rates and maximize the software’s benefits within the team. Future Trends: The shift towards mobile order management solutions allows businesses to operate flexibly and respond quickly to customer needs, improving overall operational agility. In today’s fast-paced business world, managing orders efficiently can make or break your success. With customers expecting seamless experiences, leveraging the right order management software is crucial. This powerful tool not only streamlines your processes but also enhances customer satisfaction by ensuring timely deliveries and accurate inventory tracking. Imagine having the ability to automate repetitive tasks, reduce errors, and gain real-time insights into your operations. By integrating order management software into your business, you can focus on what truly matters—growing your brand and delighting your customers. Dive into the world of order management software and discover how it can transform your business operations for the better. Overview of Order Management Software Order management software streamlines your business operations by automating and optimizing the entire order cycle. Efficient order management plays a critical role in enabling small businesses to enhance customer satisfaction and improve overall productivity. Definition and Importance Order management software refers to a digital solution that automates your order processing, from order placement to fulfillment. This software is crucial for small businesses aiming to manage workflows effectively and maintain financial stability. It ensures timely deliveries, reduces errors in inventory management, and improves cash flow by providing real-time insights into resources and sales trends. With a unified platform, you can support your business goals and respond quickly to customer feedback, ultimately leading to better retention rates. Key Features to Look For When selecting order management software, focus on the following key features: Inventory Management: Real-time tracking helps prevent stockouts and overstock situations. Automation Tools: Automate repetitive tasks to minimize human error and save time. Order Tracking: Provide customers visibility into their order status, improving customer service. Integration Capabilities: Ensure compatibility with other software tools such as accounting, CRM, and e-commerce platforms. Data Analytics: Leverage business analytics for actionable insights into performance, enabling effective decision-making. Collaboration Features: Facilitate team management and communication to enhance workflow and operational efficiency. Choosing the right order management software can significantly boost your small business’s effectiveness, allowing you to focus on growth and scaling your operations. Types of Order Management Software When selecting order management software, you face two primary options: cloud-based solutions and on-premise solutions. Each type offers distinct advantages that can support your small business in streamlining workflows and enhancing productivity. Cloud-Based Solutions Cloud-based order management systems (OMS) host your order data on remote servers, accessible via the internet. This setup allows you to manage orders from anywhere, ensuring flexibility for you and your team. Scalability and Flexibility: These solutions easily scale with your business growth, accommodating increased order volumes without significant hardware investments. As your operations expand, you can adjust your usage seamlessly. Cost-Effectiveness: Cloud-based OMS often utilize a Software as a Service (SaaS) model, requiring minimal upfront investment. You’ll pay only for the features you use, reducing financial strain on your small business. Collaboration: Teams benefit from real-time access to order data, encouraging effective communication and collaboration. This aspect enhances your operational efficiency and supports strategic planning for future growth. On-Premise Solutions On-premise order management systems provide an alternative by hosting software and data on your internal servers. While this approach offers certain benefits, it also comes with considerations for small businesses. Control and Security: You maintain greater control over your data and systems, which can be critical for sensitive information. However, this control requires robust IT resources for management and maintenance. Upfront Investment: On-premise solutions typically involve higher upfront costs for software licensing and hardware. This aspect may impact your budgeting and cash flow when establishing an OMS. Customization: On-premise systems often offer more customization options, enabling you to tailor software to fit your specific business processes. If you need a highly specialized solution, this could be the right choice. By evaluating both options, you can make a more informed decision about which order management software aligns best with your business goals and operational needs. Benefits of Using Order Management Software Order management software (OMS) offers numerous advantages for small businesses aiming to optimize operations and enhance productivity. Implementing OMS significantly improves your business processes, allowing for efficient order handling, better inventory oversight, and increased customer satisfaction. Improved Efficiency OMS streamlines workflows by automating order fulfillment processes. Automated systems receive orders from multiple channels, process them, and manage picking and posting swiftly. This automation reduces manual labor and minimizes the risk of human error, enhancing operational efficiency. For example, you can expect to decrease order processing time by up to 30%, allowing your team to focus on higher-value tasks. With real-time inventory management, you maintain a clear overview of stock levels, preventing overstocking and understocking issues that can disrupt cash flow. Enhanced Customer Satisfaction Order management software enhances customer service by providing accurate order tracking and timely updates. Immediate access to order statuses allows you to communicate efficiently with customers, boosting their confidence in your business. Additionally, OMS facilitates better inventory management, ensuring that products are available when customers need them, which can lead to increased customer retention and loyalty. A study found that businesses leveraging robust OMS report a 20% improvement in customer satisfaction scores due to timely deliveries and accurate fulfillment. Incorporating order management software into your small business strategy not only drives productivity but also strengthens your position in the market by meeting customer expectations effectively. Challenges in Implementing Order Management Software Implementing order management software (OMS) presents several challenges, especially for small businesses. Understanding these challenges helps you navigate the transition smoothly. Integration with Existing Systems Integration with existing systems poses a significant challenge during OMS implementation. The complexity of integration often requires technical expertise. Your OMS must connect seamlessly with software tools like inventory management, customer relationship management (CRM), and shipping systems. Inconsistencies in data may emerge if integration isn’t handled correctly, affecting order processing and customer service. Ensuring data consistency prevents loss of information and streamlines workflow across your business processes. User Training and Adoption User training and adoption are critical for OMS success. Training your team on how to utilize the new system enhances employee management and boosts productivity. Without adequate training, employees might resist adopting the software, limiting its potential benefits. Developing a structured training program can help your team leverage the OMS effectively. Focus on strengthening communication skills during training to improve collaboration and user engagement. Encouraging feedback during the onboarding process allows you to address concerns and optimize the user experience, ultimately supporting your business goals. Future Trends in Order Management Software Order management software (OMS) is evolving rapidly, especially with the adoption of automation and AI technologies. These advancements play a vital role in enhancing operational efficiency for small businesses. Automation and AI Integration Automation and AI are transforming your order management processes. AI-driven order management enables your business to shift from traditional manual workflows to intelligent, adaptive systems. These systems utilize machine learning algorithms to minimize errors and facilitate real-time decision-making. For example, AI analyzes vast sets of historical and real-time data to detect patterns, predict customer demand, and adjust ordering parameters accordingly. With predictive intelligence, these solutions anticipate disruptions and simulate diverse scenarios, optimizing your outcomes while improving customer service. By embracing these tools, you enhance productivity, streamline workflows, and ultimately support your business growth. Mobile Order Management Solutions Mobile order management solutions offer flexibility, allowing you to manage your business operations from anywhere. These solutions enable team members to track orders, make adjustments, and communicate quickly through their smartphones or tablets. For small businesses, mobile capabilities improve time management and increase responsiveness to customer inquiries or updates. With real-time access to data, you maintain better inventory control, enhance customer retention, and effectively support your strategic planning initiatives. Adopting mobile solutions ensures your team remains agile, improving overall performance while meeting deadlines and customer expectations. Conclusion Investing in order management software can be a game changer for your business. By automating processes and streamlining workflows you not only enhance efficiency but also improve customer satisfaction. The right OMS helps you stay agile in a competitive market allowing you to meet customer expectations consistently. As you explore different options consider your specific needs and the features that align with your goals. Whether you choose a cloud-based or on-premise solution make sure it integrates seamlessly with your existing systems. This will help you avoid common pitfalls and maximize your investment. Embracing these technologies not only drives productivity but also positions your business for future growth. With the right tools in place you can focus on what truly matters—delighting your customers and expanding your market reach. Frequently Asked Questions What is order management software (OMS)? Order management software (OMS) is a digital tool that automates the entire order process, from order placement to fulfillment. It helps businesses streamline their workflows, manage inventories, and deliver timely updates to customers, thus improving overall operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. Why is order management important for small businesses? Efficient order management is crucial for small businesses because it enhances productivity, minimizes errors, and ensures accurate inventory tracking. By automating repetitive tasks, OMS allows small businesses to focus on growth and improving customer relations, ultimately leading to better financial stability. What are the key features to look for in OMS? When selecting order management software, look for features such as inventory management, automation tools, order tracking, integration capabilities, data analytics, and collaboration options. These features help optimize workflows, reduce errors, and improve customer satisfaction. What are the differences between cloud-based and on-premise OMS? Cloud-based OMS offers flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and easier remote access, while on-premise solutions provide better control and data security. Cloud systems typically require less initial investment, whereas on-premise options come with higher costs and require IT management resources. How does OMS enhance customer satisfaction? OMS improves customer satisfaction by providing accurate order tracking and timely updates, reducing the chances of errors and delays. This leads to a more reliable experience, fostering customer loyalty and retention through enhanced communication and fulfillment processes. What challenges do small businesses face when implementing OMS? Small businesses may encounter challenges such as integrating OMS with existing systems, ensuring user adoption, and providing training. A well-structured training program and seamless connectivity with tools like CRM and inventory management are essential for success. How can automation and AI enhance order management? Automation and AI technologies streamline order management by minimizing manual tasks, reducing errors, and facilitating real-time decision making. AI-driven solutions can analyze data to predict demand, optimize ordering, and improve overall operational efficiency. What are mobile order management solutions? Mobile order management solutions enable businesses to manage orders remotely using smartphones and tablets. This flexibility allows team members to track orders and respond to customer inquiries swiftly, improving time management and overall operational agility. Image Via Envato This article, "Boost Your Business Efficiency with Effective Order Management Software Solutions" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. Garmin is well-known among fitness smartwatch enthusiasts, and if you're a runner, the Forerunner 265 is the best option in the Garmin lineup. The Forerunner 265 is without question the best fitness watch for runners, according to Senior Health Editor Beth Skwarecki's review. While it's typically a costly smartwatch at $449.99, it's currently on sale for $349.99, which is the lowest price it has ever been, according to price tracking tools. (Both the 46 mm model and the smaller 42 mm model are on sale for the same price.) Operating System: Android, Memory Storage: 8 GB, Battery Capacity: 4 Amp Hours Garmin Forerunner 265 $349.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $449.99 Save $100.00 Get Deal Get Deal $349.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $449.99 Save $100.00 Operating System: Android, Memory Storage: 8 GB, Battery Capacity: 4 Amp Hours Garmin Forerunner 265S $349.99 at Amazon $449.99 Save $100.00 Get Deal Get Deal $349.99 at Amazon $449.99 Save $100.00 SEE -1 MORE The Forerunner 265 comes with a bright and colorful AMOLED screen that makes it easily visible out in the sun. There are also physical buttons, which are much easier to hit without needing to look down mid-run. The GPS is surprisingly accurate, as is the heart rate tracking feature. The watch also calculates your VO2max and uses that data to predict your race times for a 5K, 10K, half-marathon, and full marathon. These predictions are pretty accurate, but usually a bit on the optimistic side, according to Beth's review. As you can with most Garmin watches, they are very customizable, from screen watches to workouts. The data you see or don't see can be easily edited in the companion Connect app. Beth got about 14 days of battery life from the smaller 265S watch. They are mostly the same watch with very subtle differences. The main thing you should worry about is getting the right size for your wrists so it fits well and generates accurate readings. View the full article

Google updated its Ads Transparency policy to show more detailed information about the entities funding ads – a move aimed at increasing accountability in digital advertising. Driving the news. Starting today, Google is displaying the payer name – drawn from an advertiser’s payment profile – if it differs from their verified advertiser name. For agency accounts, the client’s payment profile will be used as the payer name when applicable. This information will appear in the My Ad Center panel and the Ads Transparency Center. Why we care. This update increases public visibility into who is actually funding ads, which can impact brand perception, trust, and compliance. For agencies and businesses managing multiple clients or brands, accurate payer naming is essential to avoid misattribution, confusion, or reputational risk. It also introduces new operational steps – like re-verification and profile name management – that advertisers need to handle to maintain transparency and control how they’re represented. The next phase. Starting in June, advertisers can manually edit their payer name in their account’s verification settings. New Google Ads accounts will default to using the payment profile name unless it is updated during verification. Between the lines. This change aims to prevent confusion and ensure the true source of ad funding is clear, particularly in cases where agencies buy ads on behalf of clients. Google advised agency advertisers who were misclassified as direct advertisers to re-verify their accounts by May 31 to avoid inaccurate payer name displays. Zom out. Election Ads advertisers are already required to disclose payer names during verification. Those wishing to update their payer name must re-complete the election ad verification process under existing policies. The announcement. Updates to Ads Transparency Policy (April 2025) View the full article

Users are visiting Google more often but staying less. That’s one of several insights from a new analysis by Kevin Indig, in partnership with Similarweb, based on 5 billion search queries and 20 million websites across the U.S., UK, and Germany. The big picture. In the U.S., visits to Google are up +9% since AI Overviews launched in May 2024. Also: Time on site and pages per visit are flat or falling across markets. Query length has barely changed. The numbers point to a new user pattern: more frequent visits, shorter sessions – a shift toward “resolve and leave” behavior, according to Indig. By the numbers. Google visits are up in the U.S.: U.S. visits rose from 26.9% to 29.1% after the launch of AI Overviews last May. Pageviews on websites from AI Overview keywords have grown 22%. Meanwhile, engagement is falling: Time-on-site for Google.com is flat or declining in all three markets. In Germany, where AI Overviews launched two months ago, time on site dropped noticeably. Pages-per-visit dropped post-launch, suggesting users found answers faster. Also, query length is mostly unchanged: U.S. average query length rose just +3% since January 2023, from 3.27 to 3.37 words. In the UK, query length declined slightly after AI Overviews rolled out. Germany saw a modest +0.4% increase – but that was before AI Overviews went live. Why we care. Google AI Overviews are now seen by more than 1.5 billion searchers every month and occupy the most valuable real estate on Google’s search results. Google owns what searchers see (and don’t see), so SEOs and brands must understand how this impacts their behavior. The report. The Data Behind Google’s AI Overviews: What Sundar Pichai Won’t Tell You by Kevin Indig View the full article

Fortnite is coming back to the iPhone next week, according to Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney. That may not sound like huge news to those of you that have never played Fortnite, but the game's return follows a court ruling that has implications for many other apps you likely use every day. The ruling, from judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers, states definitively that Apple is no longer allowed to stop developers from linking to purchases outside the App Store or limit them from explaining where such purchases can be made. What does this mean practically? Well, have you ever tried to subscribe to Netflix, upgrade Spotify, or buy a Kindle book on your iPhone? These things can't be done right now, at least not through the iPhone apps. You also won't find any language explaining this inside those apps. Instead, you'll have to go onto a web browser, make the purchases there, then go back to your phone to access the movie or book, etc. This odd situation is the result of a tangle of policies between the big tech companies—one that's hostile to users. Currently, Apple demands that all commercial transactions inside apps go through the App Store itself. The company claims this is for security and ease of use, but Apple also happens to take a sizable cut of all App Store transactions. This means, should Netflix allow users to subscribe inside the app, it would have to pay Apple a large percentage—between 15 and 30 percent—to Apple every month. Until recently, Apple also forbade companies from linking to external websites where transactions can be made or even referencing that such alternative places to pay exist. Different companies have responded to this in different ways. Epic Games, which owns Fortnite, pulled its apps from the App Store entirely. Some companies, including Netflix, don't offer any signup options in the app at all, and hope that users will figure out they need to sign up elsewhere. Some companies just charge more to App Store customers: YouTube Premium, for example, costs $18.99 per month in the App Store but only $13.99 if you sign up in your browser. Some companies, like Patreon, use a different tactic: If you sign up to support someone on Patreon using your iPhone, 30 percent of your monthly contribution goes straight to Apple instead of to the creator you wanted to support. The ruling will have implications for all such companies, allowing them to explain these things inside the app while also linking to alternative places to subscribe. Spotify told The Verge that it will soon add a link to its web-based subscription inside its iPhone app. Apple, for its part, intends to appeal the ruling, meaning the situation could change. For now, though, companies are a bit more free to link to and talk about alternative ways to make purchases. View the full article

McDonalds released its earnings report for the first quarter of 2025 early this morning. According to the report, U.S. comparable sales decreased by 3.6% from the previous year, primarily driven by reduced guest counts. This is the fast food giant’s largest U.S. sales drop since the second quarter of 2020, when U.S. sales plunged 8.7% during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. ‘Grappling with uncertainty’ The fast food retailer reported that U.S. store revenue dipped to $5.96 billion, below a Bloomberg consensus estimate of $6.12 billion cited by Yahoo Finance. In the earnings report, McDonald’s CEO Chris Kempczinski noted that “Consumers today are grappling with uncertainty.” Chicago-based McDonald’s said adjusted earnings per share were $2.67. The earnings report also indicated that global sales fell 1.0%, with the most notable decline in sales in the U.K. McDonald’s shares (NYSE: MCD) were down 1.53% in early-afternoon trading on Thursday following the report. The stock is up 7.71% year to date. Fast food embracing value meals amid consumer caution Consumers appear to be tightening their spending due to economic uncertainty, likely not helped by President The President’s broad tariffs and erratic trade policies, which have made people anxiousness about increased costs and a possible recession. In this morning’s earnings call, Kempczinski warned, “we’re not immune to the volatility in the industry or the pressures that our consumers are facing.” McDonald’s menu prices have notably risen along with inflation in recent years, leading to customer backlash. More recently, however, the fast food retailer has attempted to increase customer traffic by releasing new menu items and promoting value-focused deals. Recent discount deals include the McValue menu, which features buy one, add one for $1 items, and $5 Meal Deals. Other fast-food chains have made similar moves to boost sales. Meanwhile, the burger giant plans to continue to offer meal deals like this, according to McDonald’s CFO Ian Borden. “While we may adjust our current McValue offerings over time,” Borden said on the earnings call, “for the remainder of 2025, we’ll continue to include everyday value meal deals starting at $5 given how the current $5 meal deal in particular has resonated with customers.” View the full article

Key Takeaways Fresher and Tastier Ingredients: Locally sourced food is often fresher and more flavorful, directly supporting local farmers and enhancing your culinary experiences. Nutritional Benefits: Foods harvested at peak ripeness retain higher nutritional value, promoting healthier meals for consumers. Environmental Sustainability: Choosing local ingredients reduces carbon emissions from transportation, aligning with eco-friendly practices that appeal to environmentally conscious consumers. Economic Support for Local Communities: Purchasing local food strengthens community economies by keeping money within the area, creating jobs, and uplifting local businesses. Challenges with Seasonal Availability: The variety of locally sourced food can fluctuate based on season and climate, necessitating menu adaptations to highlight what’s fresh and available. Strategic Marketing Opportunities: Highlighting the quality and benefits of local ingredients can build brand loyalty, encourage community engagement, and differentiate your business from larger chains. Imagine biting into a juicy tomato that’s just been picked from a nearby farm. That’s the beauty of locally sourced food. It’s not just about what’s on your plate; it’s about supporting your community and enjoying fresher, tastier ingredients. When you choose local, you’re connecting with farmers who pour their passion into their produce. Locally sourced food doesn’t just benefit your taste buds; it also promotes sustainability. By reducing the distance food travels, you’re cutting down on carbon emissions and supporting eco-friendly practices. Plus, you get to enjoy seasonal flavors at their peak. Embracing local food means making a positive impact on your health and the environment. So let’s dive into the world of locally sourced food and discover how it can transform your meals and your community. The Benefits of Locally Sourced Food Locally sourced food offers numerous advantages that enhance your business and the community. Embracing local ingredients boosts your menu’s freshness while supporting nearby farmers. Nutritional Advantages Locally sourced food often contains higher nutritional value. Ingredients harvested at peak ripeness maintain more nutrients than those shipped from far locations. Your customers enjoy fresher produce, resulting in healthier meals that attract health-conscious diners. When you highlight these benefits in your marketing strategy, it enhances your brand’s image and fosters customer loyalty. Environmental Impact Choosing locally sourced food significantly reduces environmental impact. Shorter transportation routes lower carbon emissions, aligning with sustainable practices that appeal to eco-conscious consumers. Promoting your commitment to sustainability through local marketing channels, such as social media marketing and email marketing, builds brand awareness and fosters community involvement. By prioritizing local partnerships, you contribute positively to your neighborhood while attracting customers who value environmental responsibility. Supporting Local Economies Supporting locally sourced food enhances your community’s financial health. When you purchase local products, your money circulates within the area, benefiting local businesses and creating job opportunities. This financial boost strengthens your community infrastructure, improves schools, and revitalizes local economies. Economic Benefits for Farmers Farmers greatly benefit from your support of local food systems. When consumers prioritize purchasing locally sourced produce, it increases demand for fresh, quality ingredients. The local marketing strategies you employ, such as participating in farmers’ markets or forming partnerships with local restaurants, directly enhance your farm’s visibility. Engaging with your target market through social media marketing or local advertisements fosters stronger connections with consumers and encourages repeat purchases. Job Creation in Communities Job creation thrives when you support local economies. Shopping locally creates stable employment opportunities in your area, from farms to small businesses. Each dollar spent on local food generates additional economic activity, with estimates showing $0.32 to $0.90 reinvested back into the community. Host local events or sponsorships to promote your business and increase community engagement, which elevates brand awareness and customer loyalty. Building relationships through grassroots marketing and local influencer partnerships further drives job growth, ensuring that your community remains vibrant and economically strong. Challenges of Locally Sourced Food Locally sourced food presents certain challenges you must navigate to ensure sustainability and customer satisfaction. Understanding these can help you strategize your business’s offerings effectively. Seasonal Availability Seasonal availability significantly impacts your sourcing choices. Local food systems often face limitations based on climate conditions, which can restrict the variety of products available at different times of the year. For instance, in areas like Colorado, drought conditions can hinder organic cattle production and grazing. This variability in local produce forces you to adapt your menus and marketing strategies to match what’s fresh and available. Engage your customers with seasonal promotions that highlight current offerings and encourage them to explore new dishes based on what’s in season. Price Comparisons Price comparisons pose another challenge when it comes to locally sourced food. While customers increasingly appreciate the benefits of fresh, local ingredients, they may still compare prices against larger grocery chains that offer lower prices due to scale. Focus on showcasing the quality and unique taste of your local products through effective local marketing. Use your online presence and local listings on platforms like Google My Business and Yelp to emphasize the value of supporting local businesses. Promote loyalty programs that reward customers for choosing locally sourced options, reinforcing the perception that they receive more for their money while helping your small business thrive. How to Incorporate Locally Sourced Food into Your Diet Locally sourced food not only enhances your meals but strengthens community ties. Here’s how to effectively incorporate these ingredients into your diet. Finding Local Sources Identify local farmers’ markets to source fresh produce directly from growers. Connect with nearby farms for seasonal offerings, ensuring freshness and peak flavor. Leverage local listings and directories to discover purveyors and review options for community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs. For convenience, utilize social media platforms to engage with local producers and find events where you can buy food directly. Maintaining an online presence through a small business website can help you promote local sources and showcase your commitment to fresh ingredients. Recipes Featuring Local Ingredients Create dishes highlighting in-season produce. Incorporate vegetables like tomatoes and squash in summer salads or root vegetables in hearty winter stews. Use local herbs and spices to elevate flavors, ensuring each meal reflects the region’s bounty. Share these recipes on your blog or social media accounts to enhance community engagement and promote local ingredients. Offering loyalty programs can help encourage customers to try new dishes featuring local products. Consider hosting small business events where customers can taste these recipes, enhancing customer retention and generating positive word of mouth within the community. Conclusion Embracing locally sourced food not only enhances your meals but also strengthens your community. By choosing fresh ingredients from nearby farms you support local economies and foster connections with passionate producers. This commitment to local food systems contributes to a healthier planet by reducing transportation emissions and promoting sustainable practices. As you explore seasonal offerings and experiment with new recipes you’ll discover the rich flavors and nutritional benefits that come with eating locally. Engaging with farmers’ markets and community-supported agriculture can deepen your appreciation for the food you consume. Ultimately your choices can make a significant impact on your health and the well-being of your community. So go ahead and savor the taste of local food while making a positive difference in the world around you. Frequently Asked Questions What are the advantages of locally sourced food? Locally sourced food offers fresher ingredients, stronger community support, and numerous sustainability benefits. It enhances taste by using seasonal produce and reduces transportation emissions, which contributes to environmental health. Additionally, it helps promote a sense of connection with local farmers and encourages healthier meal options. How does locally sourced food benefit the community? Supporting local food systems strengthens community financial health by circulating money within the area, creating job opportunities, and improving local infrastructure. This economic boost fosters community engagement and encourages stronger relationships among residents, local businesses, and farmers. What nutritional benefits does local food provide? Locally sourced food is often harvested at peak ripeness, which helps retain more nutrients compared to items that travel long distances. This results in healthier meals that appeal to those conscious of their dietary choices, making it a preferred option for health-minded consumers. Are there challenges associated with locally sourced food? Yes, one challenge is seasonal availability, as climate conditions can limit the variety of products throughout the year. Additionally, consumers may compare local prices with larger grocery chains. Businesses need to effectively market the quality and unique benefits of local products to overcome these challenges. How can consumers incorporate locally sourced food into their diets? Consumers can start by visiting local farmers’ markets and connecting with nearby farms for seasonal offerings. Utilizing social media and local directories can help in discovering local purveyors. Additionally, creating recipes that highlight in-season produce and sharing them online can promote local food and inspire community engagement. Image Via Envato This article, "Why Choosing Locally Sourced Food Benefits Your Health and Community" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Key Takeaways Fresher and Tastier Ingredients: Locally sourced food is often fresher and more flavorful, directly supporting local farmers and enhancing your culinary experiences. Nutritional Benefits: Foods harvested at peak ripeness retain higher nutritional value, promoting healthier meals for consumers. Environmental Sustainability: Choosing local ingredients reduces carbon emissions from transportation, aligning with eco-friendly practices that appeal to environmentally conscious consumers. Economic Support for Local Communities: Purchasing local food strengthens community economies by keeping money within the area, creating jobs, and uplifting local businesses. Challenges with Seasonal Availability: The variety of locally sourced food can fluctuate based on season and climate, necessitating menu adaptations to highlight what’s fresh and available. Strategic Marketing Opportunities: Highlighting the quality and benefits of local ingredients can build brand loyalty, encourage community engagement, and differentiate your business from larger chains. Imagine biting into a juicy tomato that’s just been picked from a nearby farm. That’s the beauty of locally sourced food. It’s not just about what’s on your plate; it’s about supporting your community and enjoying fresher, tastier ingredients. When you choose local, you’re connecting with farmers who pour their passion into their produce. Locally sourced food doesn’t just benefit your taste buds; it also promotes sustainability. By reducing the distance food travels, you’re cutting down on carbon emissions and supporting eco-friendly practices. Plus, you get to enjoy seasonal flavors at their peak. Embracing local food means making a positive impact on your health and the environment. So let’s dive into the world of locally sourced food and discover how it can transform your meals and your community. The Benefits of Locally Sourced Food Locally sourced food offers numerous advantages that enhance your business and the community. Embracing local ingredients boosts your menu’s freshness while supporting nearby farmers. Nutritional Advantages Locally sourced food often contains higher nutritional value. Ingredients harvested at peak ripeness maintain more nutrients than those shipped from far locations. Your customers enjoy fresher produce, resulting in healthier meals that attract health-conscious diners. When you highlight these benefits in your marketing strategy, it enhances your brand’s image and fosters customer loyalty. Environmental Impact Choosing locally sourced food significantly reduces environmental impact. Shorter transportation routes lower carbon emissions, aligning with sustainable practices that appeal to eco-conscious consumers. Promoting your commitment to sustainability through local marketing channels, such as social media marketing and email marketing, builds brand awareness and fosters community involvement. By prioritizing local partnerships, you contribute positively to your neighborhood while attracting customers who value environmental responsibility. Supporting Local Economies Supporting locally sourced food enhances your community’s financial health. When you purchase local products, your money circulates within the area, benefiting local businesses and creating job opportunities. This financial boost strengthens your community infrastructure, improves schools, and revitalizes local economies. Economic Benefits for Farmers Farmers greatly benefit from your support of local food systems. When consumers prioritize purchasing locally sourced produce, it increases demand for fresh, quality ingredients. The local marketing strategies you employ, such as participating in farmers’ markets or forming partnerships with local restaurants, directly enhance your farm’s visibility. Engaging with your target market through social media marketing or local advertisements fosters stronger connections with consumers and encourages repeat purchases. Job Creation in Communities Job creation thrives when you support local economies. Shopping locally creates stable employment opportunities in your area, from farms to small businesses. Each dollar spent on local food generates additional economic activity, with estimates showing $0.32 to $0.90 reinvested back into the community. Host local events or sponsorships to promote your business and increase community engagement, which elevates brand awareness and customer loyalty. Building relationships through grassroots marketing and local influencer partnerships further drives job growth, ensuring that your community remains vibrant and economically strong. Challenges of Locally Sourced Food Locally sourced food presents certain challenges you must navigate to ensure sustainability and customer satisfaction. Understanding these can help you strategize your business’s offerings effectively. Seasonal Availability Seasonal availability significantly impacts your sourcing choices. Local food systems often face limitations based on climate conditions, which can restrict the variety of products available at different times of the year. For instance, in areas like Colorado, drought conditions can hinder organic cattle production and grazing. This variability in local produce forces you to adapt your menus and marketing strategies to match what’s fresh and available. Engage your customers with seasonal promotions that highlight current offerings and encourage them to explore new dishes based on what’s in season. Price Comparisons Price comparisons pose another challenge when it comes to locally sourced food. While customers increasingly appreciate the benefits of fresh, local ingredients, they may still compare prices against larger grocery chains that offer lower prices due to scale. Focus on showcasing the quality and unique taste of your local products through effective local marketing. Use your online presence and local listings on platforms like Google My Business and Yelp to emphasize the value of supporting local businesses. Promote loyalty programs that reward customers for choosing locally sourced options, reinforcing the perception that they receive more for their money while helping your small business thrive. How to Incorporate Locally Sourced Food into Your Diet Locally sourced food not only enhances your meals but strengthens community ties. Here’s how to effectively incorporate these ingredients into your diet. Finding Local Sources Identify local farmers’ markets to source fresh produce directly from growers. Connect with nearby farms for seasonal offerings, ensuring freshness and peak flavor. Leverage local listings and directories to discover purveyors and review options for community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs. For convenience, utilize social media platforms to engage with local producers and find events where you can buy food directly. Maintaining an online presence through a small business website can help you promote local sources and showcase your commitment to fresh ingredients. Recipes Featuring Local Ingredients Create dishes highlighting in-season produce. Incorporate vegetables like tomatoes and squash in summer salads or root vegetables in hearty winter stews. Use local herbs and spices to elevate flavors, ensuring each meal reflects the region’s bounty. Share these recipes on your blog or social media accounts to enhance community engagement and promote local ingredients. Offering loyalty programs can help encourage customers to try new dishes featuring local products. Consider hosting small business events where customers can taste these recipes, enhancing customer retention and generating positive word of mouth within the community. Conclusion Embracing locally sourced food not only enhances your meals but also strengthens your community. By choosing fresh ingredients from nearby farms you support local economies and foster connections with passionate producers. This commitment to local food systems contributes to a healthier planet by reducing transportation emissions and promoting sustainable practices. As you explore seasonal offerings and experiment with new recipes you’ll discover the rich flavors and nutritional benefits that come with eating locally. Engaging with farmers’ markets and community-supported agriculture can deepen your appreciation for the food you consume. Ultimately your choices can make a significant impact on your health and the well-being of your community. So go ahead and savor the taste of local food while making a positive difference in the world around you. Frequently Asked Questions What are the advantages of locally sourced food? Locally sourced food offers fresher ingredients, stronger community support, and numerous sustainability benefits. It enhances taste by using seasonal produce and reduces transportation emissions, which contributes to environmental health. Additionally, it helps promote a sense of connection with local farmers and encourages healthier meal options. How does locally sourced food benefit the community? Supporting local food systems strengthens community financial health by circulating money within the area, creating job opportunities, and improving local infrastructure. This economic boost fosters community engagement and encourages stronger relationships among residents, local businesses, and farmers. What nutritional benefits does local food provide? Locally sourced food is often harvested at peak ripeness, which helps retain more nutrients compared to items that travel long distances. This results in healthier meals that appeal to those conscious of their dietary choices, making it a preferred option for health-minded consumers. Are there challenges associated with locally sourced food? Yes, one challenge is seasonal availability, as climate conditions can limit the variety of products throughout the year. Additionally, consumers may compare local prices with larger grocery chains. Businesses need to effectively market the quality and unique benefits of local products to overcome these challenges. How can consumers incorporate locally sourced food into their diets? Consumers can start by visiting local farmers’ markets and connecting with nearby farms for seasonal offerings. Utilizing social media and local directories can help in discovering local purveyors. Additionally, creating recipes that highlight in-season produce and sharing them online can promote local food and inspire community engagement. Image Via Envato This article, "Why Choosing Locally Sourced Food Benefits Your Health and Community" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Though the marketing was a bit cagey, it's clear by this point that Ryan Coogler's latest, the critical and box office powerhouse Sinners, throws vampires into its genre-busting mix unashamedly. Set largely in 1932, the movie follows a couple of twin brothers (both played by Michael B. Jordan) returning to their backwater hometown of to Clarksdale, Mississippi to set up what they hope will be a lucrative juke joint—but not before navigating old relationships and the Klan leader who owns the sawmill that the two are looking to buy. By the midway point, all the movie's more grounded elements feed into a larger narrative blending magical realism, action, and horror. It's a thoroughly distinctive vision, a movie that's made a great deal of money, and an early Oscar favorite—so look for studios to learn the wrong lessons and give us a stream of generic vampire movies. Not here, though! None of these movies is particularly like Sinners, other than the vampire angle—but just as Ryan Coogler's movie uses vampires as a starting point, these movies all use undead lore in wildly different ways to tell wildly different, but consistently good, stories. Ganja & Hess (1973) A meditative, sultry, and entirely experimental horror film, writer/director Bill Gunn's Ganja stars Duane Jones (Night of the Living Dead) as Dr. Hess Green, who is attacked by his assistant with a knife belonging to a fictional ancient African tribe. He’s subsequently compelled to drink the blood of his assailant, an act that completes his vampiric transformation. Shortly thereafter, the assistant’s wife shows up looking for her husband and, even once she realizes what happened, begins a love affair with the doctor. Stylish and deliberately paced (a lot of vibes; a little plot), the movie has some smart, and very barbed, points to make about assimilation and religious hypocrisy. Spike Lee remade it in 2014 as Da Sweet Blood of Jesus but, with respect to Lee, you're much better off with the original. You can stream Ganja & Hess on Tubi and Kanopy or rent it from Prime Video. Ganja & Hess (1973) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night (2014) Iranian-American writer/director Ana Lily Amirpour's A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night would make a list of cool vampire movies on its gorgeous black-and-white style alone: Gliding down the streets of an Iranian town in her chador, The Girl (Sheila Vand) cuts an iconic figure, even when we learn that her eerie way of movement has to do with a concealed skateboard. But Amirpour has a lot of fun with the idea that a girl traveling a deserted street in the dark might be a threat far more than a potential victim, and that a chador might be less a symbol of oppression than a means of staying concealed until the moment comes to strike. You can stream A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night on Kanopy or rent it from Apple TV+. A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night (2014) at Apple TV+ Learn More Learn More at Apple TV+ Dracula's Daughter (1936) Like father, like daughter in this direct sequel to the Bela Lugosi film, with Countess Marya Zaleska (Gloria Holden, in full Garbo mode) running afoul of Edward Van Sloan's Van Helsing from the original. The two vampires share in common not just an archnemesis, but an eye for the ladies, as well, with Countess Zaleska seducing first despondent Lili and then kidnapping Janet. What it lacks in style (not being nearly a match for Todd Browning's film in that regard) it makes up for in sheer horniness. Producers and censors were nervous about the lesbian of it all in the lead-up to the film's release, but also chose to hype it up in the marketing, especially with the very on-the-nose tagline: "Save the women of London from Dracula's Daughter!" You can rent Dracula's Daughter from Prime Video. Dracula's Daughter (1936) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Bit (2019) Nicole Maines (Supergirl) stars here as Laurel, a trans teenage girl who's off to sunny LA following her transition. She's looking for a fresh start, and it's all going great until a club afterparty leads to lots of making out—and then some blood drinking. It’s not long before Laurel is offered the chance to join an all-female group of vampires dedicated to taking care of the many predatory men walking the city’s streets. You can stream Bit on Prime Video. Bit (2019) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video What We Do in the Shadows (2014) Starring, written, and directed by Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi, Shadows precedes the equally great show of the same name with a similar premise: A houseful of old-world vampires (with old-school vampire trappings) looks desperately uncool when faced with the modern world. Many vampire narratives derive pathos from the idea of people trapped in a state of dull, unchanging immortality. Shadows takes that notion and mines it for solid laughs. You can rent What We Do in the Shadows from Prime Video. What We Do in the Shadows (2014) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Daughters of Darkness (1971) Erotic bisexual vampire movies, believe it or not, had a moment in the 1970s; few (if any) were more successful, and more genuinely sexy, than Daughters of Darkness. The movie has a look and feel that borders on arthouse, with a grand and elegant style, as well as a willingness to go deeper with themes (western decadence, gendered power dynamics, etc.) that have been discussed in many an academic context in the decades since. If all that makes it sound like a bore, I'll repeat that it's still very much an erotic bisexual vampire movie. Delphine Seyrig plays Countess Elizabeth Báthory, who happens upon a newlywed couple honeymooning in a remote region, and immediately sets about seducing the wife away from human sexual and moral conformity. You can stream Daughters of Darkness on Tubi and Shudder or rent it from Prime Video. Daughters of Darkness (1971) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video The Lost Boys (1987) It might not be the gayest vampire movie (there's a lot of competition), but it may well be the sweatiest. Directed by out gay director Joel Schumacher (several years before he made the gayest superhero movie, Batman & Robin), The Lost Boys finds brothers Sam (Corey Haim) and Michael (Jason Patric) Emerson moving with their family to sunny, schvitzy Santa Carla, California—just in time for Michael to be seduced into joining a sexy vampire gang by its blonde leader David, played by Kiefer Sutherland. The vamps bait Michael with Star (Jamie Gertz), but his desire for the girl gives way to a fascination with David that leads him down a very bloody path. You can rent The Lost Boys from Prime Video. The Lost Boys (1987) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Cronos (1992) Guillermo del Toro begins in this deeply unconventional vampire movie, the writer/director's debut. In the 16th century, an alchemist invents the titular device: a steampunk-ish scarab that conceals a creature inside. When it's rediscovered in the present by Jesús Gris (played by del Toro favorite Federico Luppi), it injects the man with an elixir that makes him (a bit) younger, and gives him a vampire's thirst for blood. Complicating matters, a dying oligarch who'd been on the trail of the Cronos isn't very happy that someone else gets the use of its powers, so he sends his relentless thug of a nephew (Ron Perlman) to hunt it down. The imagery is weird and endlessly inventive and, what's more, del Toro injects enough dark comedy around the edges so that the proceedings never bog down in self-seriousness. You can stream Cronos on Max and The Criterion Channel or rent it from Prime Video. Cronos (1992) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Blade II (2002) A decade on from Cronos, Guillermo del Toro directed this rather brilliant action spectacle—a blood-soaked good time that blends its disparate elements into a propulsive thrill ride that knows exactly what kind of movie it is. Wesley Snipes is at his sassy best as the title's vampire/vampire hunter, while every set piece is bright and colorful, and the vampires are thoroughly monstrous. Practical effects and an artist's eye turn a comic-book action movie into an essential. You can rent Blade II on Prime Video. Blade II (2002) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Nadja (1994) A fascinating novelty from director Michael Almereyda, Nadja is based (roughly) on André Breton's French surrealist manifesto of the same name; when financing for such an adaptation fell through (a near-instantaneous process), David Lynch (who also appears) stepped in and paid for the whole thing. To save money and achieve a particular look, Almereyda filmed vampire point-of-view shots on a Fisher-Price camera. All of which is to say that this is unlike other vampire movie. Two plot points kick off the film: First, the death of Count Dracula at the hands of his old nemesis, Van Helsing (Peter Fonda)—traumatizing his daughter (Elina Löwensohn); then, that same Nadja seeking out the daughter of Van Helsing to have sex with so that she can make her a thrall and carry out her goal of getting revenge on the Van Helsing family. It's an arty take on blood, gore, and horny lesbian vampires. You can stream Nadja on Prime Video. Nadja (1994) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Thirst (2009) "What if we took Emile Zola’s non-supernatural 1868 novel Thérèse Raquin and made it into a vampire horror film?" said writer/director Park Chan-wook (Oldboy), apparently. The novel is about an orphan forced into a miserable marriage with a droopy hypochondriac who begins a torrid, ill-fated affair. Here, the orphan is Tae-ju (Kim Ok-vin), and the dashing man with whom she's having an affair is Sang-hyun (Song Kang-ho), a one-time Catholic priest who developed vampiric hungers following an experiment gone wrong. Wildly stylish, and fascinating in being surprisingly faithful to a book that has nothing at all to do with vampires. You can rent Thirst from Prime Video. Thirst (2009) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Only Lovers Left Alive (2013) Is Only Lovers Left Alive a horror movie? A Gothic romance? A stoner-ish comedy? Um...yes? Indie writer/director Jim Jarmusch, who'd already put his distinctive stamp on other genres (like the idiosyncratic western Dead Man), turned his camera to horror. The movie follows a vampire couple, both alive for centuries but now living a world apart: Adam (Tom Hiddleston) is a sullen and moody musician living in a trashy Detroit apartment, while Eve (Tilda Swinton) lives a cheerier life in Tangier. She brings Adam along with her to give him a change of scenery and get him out of his gloomy rut, where she encourages him to get out to live a little, or whatever the undead equivalent is. You can rent Only Lovers Left Alive from Prime Video. Only Lovers Left Alive (2013) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Interview With the Vampire (1994) It's great that the modern TV-series adaptation dispenses with the subtext and gets real as to the relationship between Lestat and Louis, but this 1994 adaptation walks impressively close to that edge. Vampires Lestat (Tom Cruise) and Louis (Brad Pitt) set up housekeeping in moody New Orleans, "adopting" daughter Claudia (Kirsten Dunst) and generally making a glorious mockery of the all-American family unit. You can rent Interview with the Vampire from Prime Video. Interview With the Vampire (1994) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Martin (1977) George Romero manages to pack an extensive exploration of vampire lore into a film that may or may not even involve a vampire—it's not much a spoiler to offer that we're never entirely clear whether the vampirism of Martin (John Amplas) should be taken literally. From a family steeped in Eastern European folklore and myth, Martin develops a driving need to drink blood, a need that leads him to drug his victims and then slice into their veins with a razor. As usual, Romero has a lot to say, but here he's expertly playing on notions of vampires as sexual stand-ins (the impotent Martin role-plays the highly sexualized vampire attacks of earlier movies), and Romero also invites us to question our fascination with Martin even as he's engaged in repulsive acts. You can stream Martin on Tubi. Martin (1977) at Tubi Learn More Learn More at Tubi Let the Right One In (2008) One of the finest vampire movies, certainly of this century, is unexpectedly poignant, even as it doesn't skimp on the brutality. Bullied Oskar (Kåre Hedebrant) meets and befriends Eli (Lina Leandersson), a girl who appears to be about his age, but who is (you won't be surprised to learn) a vampire. Though very different, the two bond over their shared status as outsiders in the gloomy Swedish suburb of Blackeberg. You can stream Let the Right One In on Kanopy or rent it from Prime Video. Let the Right One In (2008) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Stake Land (2010) Stake Land's vampires are neither sexy nor subtle. They're fully animal creatures that stalk an apocalyptic wasteland—cutting to the chase as to what a world with vampires might quickly come to look like. As a thriller, it's gory and effective, but a movie just about humans on the run from scary vampires would be less interesting than what we get here: As is so often the case, it's the humans who remain the scariest threats. Religious fanatics calling themselves The Brotherhood are convinced that vampire are God's will, a punishment for sins and, as a result, they're perfectly happy to help the hungry beasts feed. You can stream Stake Land on Tubi, Kanopy, Peacock, and Prime Video. Stake Land (2010) at Peacock Learn More Learn More at Peacock Blood Relatives (2022) We're talking about cool vampires here, but this comedy from director Noah Segan is about a terminally uncool vampire (played by Segan), who discovers that he's the father of a grown young woman (played by a great Victoria Moroles) who inherited his vampirism, in part, and wants to connect with her dad following the death of her mom. Mostly, she just has nowhere else to go. In and among the snappy dialogue and sharp characterizations, Segan has fun puncturing vampire lore in the story of a guy who initially has no interest in connecting with his daughter, but then has a change of heart. You can stream Blood Relatives on Shudder or rent it from Prime Video. Blood Relatives (2022) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Dracula (1931) If it's hard to imagine a time when horror wasn't a powerhouse movie genre, that's because it's been that way since 1931, the year that Béla Lugosi's Count Dracula sashayed onto the screen. Tod Browning's film was a prestige adaptation of a classic novel, before it occurred to anyone to treat horror as B-level entertainment, so there's no corner-cutting in Dracula's impeccable style. Though it gets a bit stagey in its second half, the movie gives us some of horror's most indelible imagery—scenes and shots we're still referencing nearly a century later. Béla Lugosi's Dracula has been endlessly parodied and imitated, but all of that's only possible because he made one hell of an impression. You can rent Dracula from Prime Video. Dracula (1931) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video View the full article

Kohl’s has terminated its new CEO Ashley Buchanan after an investigation determined that he directed the retailer to engage in vendor transactions that involved undisclosed conflicts of interest. Kohl’s named Chairman Michael Bender as interim CEO, effective immediately. In connection with the appointment, Bender will step down as a member of the board’s audit, compensation and nominating and environmental, social and governance committee, according to the retailer’s regulatory filing. The news comes nearly four months after Buchanan, who had been previously the CEO of arts and crafts chain Michaels, took over the job on January 15. Buchanan’s appointment marks the third CEO for Kohl’s in three years as the department store struggles to reverse sluggish sales. Kohl’s said Thursday that Buchanan’s firing is unrelated to its performance, financial reporting, results of operations and did not involve any of its other employees. Kohl’s will conduct a search for a permanent CEO and said it will name a new chair in due course. The company couldn’t be immediately be reached for comment. Buchanan didn’t immediately return a message sent to his LinkedIn account. According to the Securities and Exchange Commission filing, Buchanan’s termination follows a probe conducted by outside counsel and overseen by the board’s audit committee. It found Buchanan had directed that Kohl’s conduct business with a vendor founded by an individual with whom Buchanan has a personal relationship on “highly unusual terms favorable to the vendor” and that he also caused Kohl’s to enter into a multimillion-dollar consulting agreement with the same individual who was a part of the consulting team. It also found that in neither case did Buchanan disclose this relationship as required under Kohl’s code of ethics. In connection with his termination and in accordance with the terms of his equity award agreements, Buchanan will forfeit all equity awards he received from the company, including the recruitment awards made as of January 15, according to the filing. Buchanan will also be required to reimburse Kohl’s for a pro rata portion of his signing incentive in the amount of $2.5 million, according to the documents. As a result of Buchanan’s termination, the board has determined to withdraw his nomination for election as a director of the company at the company’s annual shareholders’ meeting to be held on May 14. Buchanan had succeeded Tom Kingsbury, who stayed on as an adviser and is retaining his position on Kohl’s board until his retirement next month. Kingsbury served as Kohl’s interim CEO in December 2022 and was named its permanent leader in February 2023. The firing comes at a time when Kohl’s, which operates 1,600 stores across the country, is wrestling with sluggish sales. Its middle-income shoppers have pulled back on discretionary spending in the face of still-high prices for necessities. It’s also faced stiff competition from Walmart and Amazon, which have been improving their fashion offerings at affordable prices. And like other retailers, it is confronting uncertainty surrounding President Donald The President‘s expansive tariffs. On Thursday, Kohl’s offered a preliminary look at sales and profits for the current quarter that showed continued weakness, though the expected results are on track to beat Wall Street estimates. It said that it expects to report a decline in comparable sales—those coming from established physical stores and online channels—in the range of 4.3% to 4%, and a loss of 24 cents to 20 cents per share for the fiscal first quarter. Analysts expected earnings per share loss of 54 cents and a drop in comparable sales of 6.4%, according to FactSet. It expects to report final fiscal first-quarter results on May 29. Shares of the company, based in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, rose nearly 9% in late morning trading. —Michelle Chapman and Anne D’Innocenzio, AP business writers View the full article

US intelligence agency seeks to woo prospective assets with the offer of ‘a better life’View the full article

Hackers target luxury department store group after Marks and Spencer and the Co-op View the full article

From The President Tower to the Vatican: inside the tortuous dealmaking to link Ukraine’s resources to US supportView the full article

Google started placing ads inside chat conversations with some third-party AI assistants, according to a Bloomberg report, marking another step in its push to monetize AI-powered search alternatives. Driving the news. Google’s AdSense network — traditionally used for placing ads in search results and across websites — is now running ads within chatbot interactions, according to people familiar with the rollout. The company reportedly began testing the feature earlier this year with conversational AI search startups iAsk and Liner. A Google spokesperson confirmed that AdSense is available “for websites that want to show relevant ads in their conversational AI experiences.” Why we care. Google’s move brings targeted advertising into a new, fast-growing channel: AI chatbots. As users increasingly turn to conversational AI for answers instead of traditional search, placing ads in these interactions ensures brands stay visible where attention is shifting. This also opens up new, highly contextual ad formats that could deliver better engagement and insights than standard web placements. The big picture. AI chatbots like ChatGPT, Claude, and Perplexity are reshaping how people get answers online – a space historically dominated by Google Search. Google has responded by integrating its own large language models into products like Gemini and Search. Last year, it began including ads in its AI-generated overviews on Search results pages. Between the lines. By partnering with AI startups, Google can capture ad revenue regardless of who owns the search experience. Liner tailors a small number of ads to longer user queries, a model CEO Luke Jinu Kim likens to an “early version of Google search ads.” iAsk places ads below AI-generated answers before prompting follow-up questions. Yes, but. AI-driven platforms often see lower click rates – a challenge for advertising models built on volume and engagement. Still, research-heavy use cases like Liner’s may offer more targeted opportunities for brands. What to watch. Whether users find ads in AI chats useful or intrusive, and how Google balances monetization with user trust in an evolving AI search landscape. View the full article