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We may earn a commission from links on this page. Whatever happened to the erotic thriller? There’s something of a bell curve to the distribution of the subgenre, rising with the relaxing of the production code in the late 1960s, topping out in the ‘80s with prestige fare like Fatal Attraction, and tailing off by the mid-2000s to the dominance of franchise culture. Today’s box office values big-budget, four-quadrant blockbusters, making marketing of films about adult sexuality nearly impossible. Streaming has opened a window for movies that resemble the erotic thrillers of yore, but the kind they used to make—feature lurid hooks and big stars—remain decidedly absent from theaters. (Genre master Adrian Lyne even returned to the director’s chair for the Ben Affleck/Ana de Armas Hulu thriller Deep Water in 2022, which was a welcome—if largely critically reviled—throwback.) Sex on the big screen is creeping back in as the superhero tide recedes, but sex on the big screen is down by nearly half since 2000. Plenty will say that's a good thing; those people are wrong. Yes, there’s plenty to criticize, even in the best examples of the form. The sex is often more titillating than realistic; the movies have also almost always been written and directed by men and emphasized on male perspectives, and many of the women who starred in them didn’t have the best time of it (consider Sharon Stone’s oft-repeated accusations that an iconic nude scene in Basic Instinct involved a nasty bit of trickery from director Paul Verhoeven). It's also very much the case that explicit imagery isn't a requirement for eroticism, as some of these films will show—but we're also not here to be prudish. And yet, it remains curious the way sex seems to have largely vanished from mainstream, theatrically released films. So without further ado, let’s celebrate some of the best—or at least the most interesting—examples of a type of movie that they just don’t make anymore. Dressed to Kill (1980) Any erotic thriller worth its salt pays at least some tribute to Alfred Hitchcock, film noir, or both, and director Brian de Palma set the tone with Dressed to Kill, a juicy mystery involving a sex worker (Nancy Allen) who witnesses a murder and becomes both the prime suspect and the killer’s probable next victim. The style is absolutely delicious, and there’s a reason it started a new trend; the blend of classic tropes and overt sex is almost too hot to handle. Without spoiling too much, though, it very much comes from an era in film when queer representation was limited to absolutely batshit killers, and so loses some points for falling back on lazy (and overused, even in 1980) stereotypes. You can stream Dressed to Kill on Tubi and MGM+ or rent it from Prime Video. Dressed to Kill (1980) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video After Dark, My Sweet (1990)If it weren't for the sweaty couplings between Jason Patric and Rachel Ward, the plot of After Dark, My Sweet would be perfectly befitting that of a classic noir. Patric plays an ex-boxer (and mental hospital escapee) who takes a job fixing up an old house for widow Ward although, naturally, there's more to it—Uncle Bud (Bruce Dern), almost certainly not an uncle, shows up to embroil them all in a kidnapping scheme involving a rich man's kid. Based on the Jim Thompson novel, and almost certainly the purest adaptation of that great crime writer's work, there's a visceral, believable sleaziness here that suits the material perfectly. You can stream After Dark, My Sweet on Tubi or rent it from Prime Video. After Dark, My Sweet (1990) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Dangerous Game (1993) Provocative director Abel Ferrara is best known, perhaps, for Bad Lieutenant, while Madonna's very brief erotic-thriller phase is typically seen to be represented by Body of Evidence. Dangerous Game, though, is better than both of them: brutal and immediate, with a couple of stunning lead performances from Harvey Keitel and Madonna. Keitel plays an indie director increasingly obsessed with the low-budget marital drama he's filming, while Madonna plays a young actress whose confidence is slowly eroded by the role, and by the increasingly unhinged demands of her director. You can stream Dangerous Game on Prime Video and MGM+. Dangerous Game (1993) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Body Double (1984) Though it's far less successful than his earlier Dressed to Kill, Brian de Palma’s Body Double is, in many ways, a better film, upping the sex and violence while also simplifying the plot and narrowing the focus. Craig Wasson plays Scully, a failed actor housesitting in the Hollywood Hills. Bored and looking through the house’s telescope, he spies a beautiful woman and then, of course, witnesses her murder. He winds up a suspect in the case, getting caught up in the world of Hollywood porn when he seeks the help of adult film actress Holly (played by Melanie Griffith in a career-making role) to solve it. There’s nothing particularly sympathetic about Scully—he’s alternately a dupe or a bad decision maker—and that’s as it should be. As with the best classic noir, we’re not cheering for Scully; we’re witnessing his long fall. You can stream Body Double on Tubi and The Criterion Channel or rent it from Prime Video. Body Double (1984) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Eyes Wide Shut (1999) As an erotic thriller, Stanley Kubrick's Eyes Wide Shut is a bit of a bait-and-switch, but just a bit. Teasers promised nothing less than a look inside the bedroom of then-power couple Nicole Kidman and Tom Cruise, with Kubrick doing for cinematic fucking what he'd done for space travel or spooky hotels. And he does, just not in the way we expected: Bill Harford (Cruise) goes on a long night's journey involving murders and sex clubs full of R-rated kink, discovering the dangers of raw titillation and the dehumanizing nature of sexual obsession. For his last film, Kubrick created an erotic thriller that challenges expectations of the genre. You can stream Eyes Wide Shut on The Criterion Channel or rent it from Apple TV+. Eyes Wide Shut (1999) at Apple TV+ Learn More Learn More at Apple TV+ Angel Heart (1987) Mickey Rourke plays private dick Harry Angel, under contract from Robert De Niro’s Louis Cypher to track down an iconic singer who has disappeared. Not only do Angel’s leads keep turning up dead, but he crosses paths with Epiphany Proudfoot (Lisa Bonet), daughter of the singer, with whom he has enjoys some memorably rough sex. There’s a ton of style and eroticism on display, as well as a questionable voodoo aesthetic, but the film is memorable for its blend of tones and for the performances, particularly those of Bonet and Rourke. You can rent Angel Heart from Prime Video. Angel Heart (1987) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video 9 1/2 Weeks (1986) The movie that helped to propel director Adrian Lyne (Fatal Attraction, Indecent Proposal, Unfaithful, and 2022's Deep Water) to fame was also co-written by Zalman King of Red Shoe Diaries fame. In that, it represents a team-up of erotic thriller royalty that’s still mostly effective because of the performances from an early-career Mickey Rourke and Kim Basinger. Very much the Fifty Shades of Grey of its era (except with actual heat), Rourke plays a Wall Street trader who leads Basinger’s art gallery assistant down an increasingly kinky road. Rourke, by then at a much different place in his career, starred in a direct-to-video sequel in 1997, but kept away from 1998's similarly low-rent prequel. Which is all to say that you could spend a fair bit of time in the steamy 9 1/2 Weeks-verse if you are so inclined. You can rent 9 1/2 Weeks from Prime Video. 9 1/2 Weeks (1986) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Fatal Attraction (1987) Elements of Fatal Attraction aren’t nearly as appealing today as they were three decades ago, but it remains a taut, suspenseful thriller that brought its adult sexuality (including a memorably awkward bit involving the kitchen sink) all the way to the Oscars; though it didn’t win anything, the movie was nominated in all the top categories. Glenn Close (as femme fatale Alex) is clearly having the time of her life playing an unhinged woman who absolutely loses her shit over married Dan (Michael Douglas). The setup has a strong whiff of “women, amirite?,” but the screenplay is smart enough to recognize that Dan isn’t the hero either, and the two generate real heat. You can stream Fatal Attraction on Paramount+ or rent it from Prime Video. Fatal Attraction (1987) at Paramount+ Learn More Learn More at Paramount+ Trois (2000) What we think of as the erotic thriller genre is overwhelmingly white. Major studios, who had already shown little interest in making films about and marketed for Black people, were clearly even less interested in dealing with sexuality among POC characters. That reticence is a big part of the reason Trois stands out, even though it doesn’t subvert genre tropes in any other way. But it’s also a juicy drama in its own right, about a man who talks his wife into joining him in a threesome, only to discover their choice of a third wasn’t smart. It did respectable business as an independent film, and very well among Black audiences. It spawned two less successful, but generally sweatier, sequels. You can stream Trois on Tubi and Prime Video. Trois (2000) at Prime Video Get Deal Get Deal at Prime Video No Way Out (1987) There’s a lot of Hitchcock in the more overtly sexual thrillers of the ‘80s and ‘90s, reflecting the full expression of the master’s more subdued eroticism (Hitchcock himself seemed eager, at the end of his career, to explore filmmaking with more freedom in movies like Frenzy). Neo-noir No Way Out certainly doesn’t hit the heights of the films that inspired it, but does make a lot out of a twisty-turny plot involving a love triangle between Kevin Costner, Sean Young, and Gene Hackman(!) and a murder for which Costner is the chief investigator—and also the prime suspect. It’s not the hottest movie of the era, but there’s real chemistry at work, as Costner’s all-American charm plays well against Young at her early-career peak—and before Hollywood misogyny shoved her aside. You can stream No Way Out on Tubi and MGM+ or rent it from Prime Video. No Way Out (1987) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Bad Influence (1990) The female characters in this Curtis Hanson film are almost entirely incidental, if you couldn’t tell from the poster, which features Rob Lowe, James Spader, and a nondescript woman whose face we don’t see. Nebbishy Michael (James Spader) starts palling around with more experienced Alex (Rob Lowe), going on adventures involving sex, drugs, and light crime. Which is all fine and fun, until Michael realizes thrill-loving Alex is 100% going to get him killed. The movie loses points for a lack of substantive female presence (and for being a creepy choice for a comeback following Lowe’s teenage sex tape scandal), but stands out by focusing its sexual chemistry around the two mismatched leading men. You can stream Bad Influence on Pluto TV. Bad Influence (1990) at Pluto TV Learn More Learn More at Pluto TV Basic Instinct (1992) A genuine pop-culture phenomenon as much for its controversies as for its quality, Basic Instinct nabbed a couple of Academy Award nominations as well as plenty of appreciation for Sharon Stone’s career-making performance. Director Paul Verhoeven (Showgirls) knows all about elevating lurid material to the level of art, or at least camp, so the movie works even though its central mystery doesn’t make much sense. Michael Douglas plays a police detective investigating a murder who gets caught up in a torrid, occasionally kinky affair with the prime suspect Catherine Tramell (Stone). The bisexual serial killer angle was already a tired trope by the time of the movie’s release, but there’s no question that Catherine Tramell is a memorable (and, I suppose, sex-positive) villain. Stone participated in the big budget, entirely forgettable 2006 sequel. You can stream Basic Instinct on Paramount+ and Pluto TV or rent it from Prime Video. Basic Instinct (1992) at Paramount+ Learn More Learn More at Paramount+ Knife + Heart (2018) There are layers upon layers in director Yann Gonzalez’s slick and stylish slasher set in the world of ‘70s gay porn. Anne Parèze (Vanessa Paradis) runs a production company that makes the exploitation movies Knife + Heart centers on, but the series of murders that occurs on set barely draws the attention of the local police, who aren’t terribly torn up about the deaths of gay porn actors. Anne decides that her next film will be about the murders themselves, unfolding a movie-within-a-movie that only draws the attention of the killer (and his spiked dildo). The movie celebrates giallo, with plenty of deep cuts for fans of classic Italian horror, and ‘70s sleaze more generally. You can stream Knife + Heart on Shudder, Tubi, and AMC+ or rent it from Prime Video. Knife + Heart (2018) Learn More Learn More In the Realm of the Senses (1976) Typically, the erotic thriller tends toward noir and neo-noir sensibilities—but I'm including this Japanese classic of sex, obsession, and severed members because the true-crime inspired story set in the 1930s has all the ingredients even if the setting is a bit further afield than usual. Nagisa Ōshima’s provocative psychosexual story blends a fair bit of un-simulated sex with hints of horror in its tale of love and murder, based on the true story of geisha, sex worker, and unlikely folk hero Sada Abe (flawlessly played by Eiko Matsuda). It’s a beautifully hypnotic and appropriately titled film that culminates in a genuinely shocking act of violence. The original X rating was updated to an NC-17 in 1991. You can stream In the Realm of the Senses on The Criterion Channel. In the Realm of the Senses (1976) at The Criterion Channel Learn More Learn More at The Criterion Channel Single White Female (1992) The elevator pitch is solid enough that the term “single white female” remains in the pop culture lexicon—Allie (Bridget Fonda), searching for a roommate, takes in Hedy (Jennifer Jason Leigh), who becomes so obsessed with her new landlord that she wants to become her. On those terms, it’s effective, though it’s a bit more troubling than you might remember: Hedy was the latest and possibly greatest in a long line of unhinged, murderous lesbians (a gay sex scene is shot like we’re suddenly in a horror movie). The movie also suggests, as so many movies still do, that female friends are always one step away from killing each other. Still, it’s stylishly made, surprisingly funny, and features two great central performances. You can rent Single White Female from Apple TV+. Single White Female (1992) at Apple TV+ Learn More Learn More at Apple TV+ The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999) There's nothing at all explicit here, but that's not a particular requirement: This one's all sublimated longing in the sweaty Mediterranean, this adaption bringing the subtext (barely) of Patricia Highsmith's novel to the fore like no adaptation before or since. Sociopathic con artist Tom Ripley (Matt Damon) develops an obsession with Jude Law's Dickie Greenleaf, wanting to be with him every bit as much as he wants to be him. The resulting relationship is far less than healthy, particularly for Dickie. You can stream The Talented Mr. Ripley on Paramount+ or rent it from Prime Video. The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999) at Paramount+ Learn More Learn More at Paramount+ Cruising (1980) There was a lot of controversy surrounding Cruising when it was first released back in 1980: what was, perhaps, an earnest attempt on William Friedkin's part to explore S&M and leather culture in an era just before the HIV/AIDS crisis comes across as entirely unhinged—which is, frankly, part of its charm. Al Pacino plays Detective Steve Burns, assigned to go undercover and hunt down whoever is killing gay men in this New York subculture. There are things that the movie gets right, but we're also meant to share Burns' fascination and occasional horror with this secret world (which emotion is he feeling during a fisting scene?). Viewed as a giallo-esque murder mystery, nonsensical twists included, it's a bit of fun with an impressive array of male nudity. You can rent Cruising from Prime Video. Cruising (1980) Learn More Learn More Indecent Proposal (1993) Another one that found a weird place in the early ‘90s pop-culture zeitgeist, this Adrian Lyne drama asks what would happen if Robert Redford made a play for your spouse, backing up his offer to the tune of a cool $1 million. In a 2022 world of greater fluidity in relationships, the answer would be either more or less complicated; in 1993 it was scandalous. You can stream Indecent Proposal on Paramount+ or rent it from Prime Video. Indecent Proposal (1993) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Lust, Caution (2007) Based, very roughly, on a true story, Ang Lee's film finds a group of Chinese students from the University of Hong Kong who plot to kill a special agent in Hong Kong of 1938. Tang Wei stars as the young woman assigned to get close to their prey as part of a honey trap but who, you might not be surprised to learn, develops both emotional and sexual feelings for her quarry (Tony Leung Chiu-wai). When the plan fails, the two are reunited a few years after the war and continue their dance despite very different circumstances. Though the film is a spy thriller, in a sense, the tone is languid and sweaty, the focus always on these two characters and their passionate, dangerous affair. You can rent Lust, Caution from Apple TV. Lust, Caution (2007) at Apple TV Learn More Learn More at Apple TV Mulholland Drive (2001) Mulholland Drive follows "Rita" (Laura Herring), an actress who suffers from amnesia following a Los Angeles car crash, and who stumbles into a wholesome mid-western transplant (Naomi Watts) setting out to become a star. The two try to uncover Rita's true identity, before engaging in some undeniably hot sex. The moment of intimacy becomes a turning point in the film, after which the walls of reality break down and we enter a world that's more explicitly noir and that borders on horror. You can stream Mulholland Drive on The Criterion Channel or rent it from Prime Video. Mulholland Drive (2001) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video The Last Seduction (1994) Linda Fiorentino plays one of the all-time great femmes fatale in this film about a woman looking to get out of her unhappy marriage. First convincing her husband (Bill Pullman) to sell cocaine (as one does), she creates sort of a pyramid scheme of seductions, with the goal of eventually circling back around to someone murdering her husband. Fiorentino’s character is so good, and so well-written, that we’re rooting for her the whole time. You can stream The Last Seduction on Prime Video, Peacock, Tubi, Pluto TV, and The Criterion Channel. The Last Seduction (1994) at Peacock Learn More Learn More at Peacock Bound (1996) The movie that introduced the world to the Wachowskis came along at exactly the right moment: Independent films were starting to have an impact on mainstream audiences and queer content was beginning to nudge its way into movies made for wide release. It doesn’t hurt that Bound is an incredibly sexy—and clever—Billy Wilder-inspired neo-noir. Gina Gershon and Jennifer Tilly are one of cinema’s all-time power couples; where the erotic thriller genre would tend toward lesbian exploitation, the presence of feminist sex educator Susie Bright and the two not-yet-out trans women behind the camera dodge those tropes almost entirely. You can stream Bound on Pluto TV or rent it from Prime Video. Bound (1996) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Love Lies Bleeding (2024) Kristen Stewart plays tough gym manager Lou, daughter of a (very small town) local crime lord who runs, guns, and dumps bodies in a local ravine. Into town one day comes bodybuilder Jackie (Katy O’Brian), just stopping over until she meets Lou, the two forming an explosive couple who alternate between doing steroids and fucking as the plot draws them further into a high-stakes, high-intensity world of sweaty neo-noir. You can stream Love Lies Bleeding on Max or rent it from Prime Video. Love Lies Bleeding (2024) at Max Learn More Learn More at Max Body Heat (1981) Kathleen Turner stars in Lawrence Kasdan's essential neo-noir as a top-tier femme fatale—matching the energy of Barbara Stanwyck in Double Indemnity, on which this is loosely based, but wearing a lot less clothing. She plays the wife of a wealthy businessman who entangles William Hurt in a plot (involving Mickey Rourke) to murder her husband and run away together (he thinks). The sex here is all part of the game that she's playing with William Hurt, even as he thinks that he's the one toying with her. You can rent Body Heat from Prime Video. Body Heat (1981) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Color of Night (1994) I'm not here to make the case that Color of Night is a brilliant bit of filmmaking. It's pretty silly, honestly, but it's never less than entertaining, playing like a burlesque on the erotic thriller genre (I think unintentionally?), including some memorably risqué sex scenes. Bruce Willis plays Dr. Bill Capa, who witnesses a bloody tragedy after which he can no longer see the color red. A trip to LA to get away from it all proves to be a bad idea after he's dragged into the mystery of his friend's murder and begins an affair with the mysterious Rose (Jane March). The impressive supporting cast includes Rubén Blades, Lesley Ann Warren, and Scott Bakula. You can rent Color of Night from Prime Video. Color of Night (1994) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Obsessed (2009) As I think we've established by this point, there are erotic thrillers that serve as legitimate cinema and others that function very ably as guilty pleasures. While the very best can do both, there's something to be said for a movie that's both horny and a little goofy. That's Obsessed, which finds a successful Black couple absolutely terrorized by an unhinged and desperately horny white lady (Ali Larter) from work. One reason this works—maybe the only reason—is in the wild lead casting of Beyoncé and Idris Elba. Not to spoil too much, but a climactic fight between Beyoncé and Larter's character won the MTV Award for Best Fight. You can stream Obsessed on Netflix or rent it from Prime Video. Obsessed (2009) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Vertigo (1958) Alfred Hitchcock inspired much of the erotic thriller genre, even if he mostly worked in an era requiring a bit more subtlety—of which he was not a huge fan, pushing those boundaries as hard as possible at every opportunity. Vertigo, while being in no way explicit, is among his most erotic films—and most disturbing. James Stewart plays Scottie Ferguson, a retired cop hired to follow the wife of an old friend, fearing for her mental state. Scottie falls for Madeleine (Kim Novak) before she falls to her death. When the now clinically depressed Scottie meets her lookalike, his obsession leads her to remake the woman in the perfect image of Madeleine. You can stream Vertigo on The Criterion Channel or rent it from Prime Video. Vertigo (1958) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Dead Ringers (1988) David Cronenberg followed up The Fly with this similarly disturbing bit of psychological fuckery. Jeremy Irons plays both twin gynecologists Beverly and Elliot Mantle, the more outgoing Elliot seducing women and passing them off to shy Beverly. It all works well (for the creepy brothers), until Beverly develops feelings for Claire (Geneviève Bujold), throwing a wrench in the brothers' relationship. Other films of the era might have played this for titillation, but David Cronenberg is fully aware of how unnerving the whole thing is, allowing the movie to slide into something very like horror before the final act. You can stream Dead Ringers on Prime Video, Peacock, and Pluto TV. Dead Ringers (1988) at Peacock Learn More Learn More at Peacock The Handmaiden (2016) Best known for stylish, over-the-top violent thrillers like Oldboy and Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance, director Park Chan-wook turned his talent for beautiful excess to the genre in question, crafting one of the best, and perviest, examples of the form. Set in Korea under Japanese occupation in the 1930s, the film follows thief Sookee (Kim Tae-ri) as she plots to swindle a wealthy heiress (Kim Min-hee) by becoming her handmaiden, but complications ensue once she develops feelings for her mark. Twist follows twist as sex and romance lead to violence and betrayal—which is all exactly what we sat down for. You can stream The Handmaiden on Prime Video. The Handmaiden (2016) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Wild Things (1998) Depending on the viewer, Wild Things is either complete trash or a glorious ode to trash (not the only film on this list to blur that line, obviously). The plot kicks off with an uncomfortable bit about a false rape allegation, but continues on with a seemingly endless string of turnabouts and red herrings involving a trio comprised of Matt Dillon, Neve Campbell, and Denise Richards. Hardly a scene goes by during which there isn’t some new revelation, building out a love triangle that becomes a love quadrangle (at least) with the addition of Kevin Bacon, who offers up some memorable, and rare-for-the-genre, male nudity. You can rent Wild Things from Prime Video. Wild Things (1998) Learn More Learn More Cruel Intentions (1999) “Adultness” is almost a defining quality of erotic films, which is why Cruel Intentions plays almost as much as an underage parody of the genre as it does a thriller in its own right. It’s also a teenage take on the French novel Les Liaisons dangereuses, already adapted as Dangerous Liaisons and Valmont—which is all to say there’s a lot to unpack here. Or perhaps you’re better just enjoying this cult classic as the juicy, intentionally trashy bit of fun that it is. Reese Witherspoon plays Annette, who intends to stay “pure” until her marriage, which, good luck in the face of the horny, scheming pair played by Sarah Michelle Gellar and Ryan Phillippe. You can rent Cruel Intentions from Prime Video. Cruel Intentions (1999) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Unfaithful (2002) Just as director Adrian Lyne ushered in the genre’s golden age, he popped by to see it off with Unfaithful, a thriller with a setup that’s made clear from the title: Diane Lane plays a bored wife to Richard Gere, by chance meeting a man who she winds up having an affair with. Annnnndddd cue the inevitable murder. It’s middling on the whole, but worth it for Lane’s Academy Award-nominated performance. You can rent Unfaithful from Prime Video. Unfaithful (2002) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Stranger By the Lake (2013) Erotic thrillers peaked in the ‘90s, and had largely died out (beyond the direct-to-video market) around the turn of the century, so much so that this 2013 French film plays like an homage to an older form, in much the same way that some of the better thrillers of the ‘80s paid tribute to film noir. Here, Pierre Deladonchamps plays Franck, a regular visitor to a nude beach and the surrounding woods, both popular cruising spots. Franck begins a passionate relationship (meaning: lots of sex in the woods) with Michel (Christophe Paou), who Franck later spots drowning someone in the lake. As the investigation into that event heats up, Franck finds himself struggling to give up a good thing, even in the face of murder. As with the lead in any good erotic thrillers, the better the sex, the more Franck will risk. You can rent Stranger by the Lake from Prime Video. Stranger By the Lake (2013) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Deep Water (2022) Adrian Lyne (9½ Weeks, Fatal Attraction, and Indecent Proposal) returned to the director’s chair after an absence of two decades for this Hulu original. Ben Affleck is probably a rough equivalent in star power and sex appeal to the male leads of yore, and Ana de Armas is a good choice as a co-lead, even if the casting does remind us that age gaps in these movies will always favor the idea of an older man with a significantly younger woman. Here, Affleck’s Vic agrees to overlook his wife’s string of affairs in order to preserve his marriage, but then becomes the prime suspect when her lovers start turning up dead. It’s a solid setup (taken from a Patricia Highsmith novel) that doesn’t quite connect, but still serves as a reminder that there's a bit of life in a time-honored genre. You can stream Deep Water on Hulu. Deep Water (2022) at Hulu Learn More Learn More at Hulu Saltburn (2023) Yes, it plays a bit like The Talented Mr. Ripley sans subtext—but maybe we're past subtext at this point. Scholarship kid Oliver Quick (Barry Keoghan) weasels his way into the life of the popular, handsome, and impressively wealthy Felix Catton (Jacob Elordi). Oliver is there to take everything he can, but he's also genuinely obsessed with Felix, building to romantic moments in a bathtub, and over an open grave. If Oliver can't have Felix and his lavish life and palatial estate, he'll take the second one, thanks. You can stream Saltburn on Prime Video. Saltburn (2023) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video View the full article

Change is the only constant – a truth marketers, especially those in SEO, know all too well. The search landscape is shifting faster than ever, with AI-powered tools like ChatGPT, Perplexity, Claude, and Gemini reshaping how people find and interact with information. Yet, despite all the innovation, the core principles of SEO remain as relevant as ever. While AI-enhanced search engines may seem like a revolutionary leap, they still rely on the foundational elements that have driven search success for years. This article explores how time-tested SEO strategies – like site structure, indexing, and keyword optimization – still play a crucial role in an AI-driven search world. Because when it comes to SEO, the more things change, the more they stay the same. What is old is new again The core principles of SEO have remained remarkably consistent over the years. Keyword optimization, quality content, backlinks, and user experience have always been key factors in achieving high search engine rankings. Nearly two years ago, I quoted Bing’s Fabrice Canel in another Search Engine Land article from when he announced the Microsoft Bing partnership with OpenAI: “SEO will never be dead, but it will change. Stick with the same SEO playbook as before.” That advice still applies today. Crawling and indexing The crawling and indexing process remains fundamental to SEO, even in the era of AI. Search engine spiders crawl the web, indexing content to make it accessible for searches. AI-powered tools follow similar principles. To ensure your content is effectively spidered and indexed, follow these best practices: Create a clear site structure A well-organized website with a logical hierarchy of pages makes it easier for AI tools to navigate and index your content. Use logical directory structures, descriptive URLs, proper header tags (especially H1s), and a sitemap to guide spiders through your site. Speed up your site Fast-loading pages improve user experience and are favored by AI algorithms and traditional search engines. Compress images, leverage browser caching, and minimize unnecessary code to enhance your site’s performance. Avoid using JavaScript (JS) in unauthenticated online spaces This makes for a better user experience, and it’s also likely that some AI bots don’t render JavaScript. Google’s Martin Splitt recently pointed this out. If you must use JS, prerender server-side into HTML as much as possible to avoid any issues getting your content into AI databases. This reminds me of the days before Googlebot could render JS. I still remember back when people built sites in Flash and wondered why they weren’t appearing in search results! Don’t block AI bots with robots.txt or other means Jed White took this a step further by advising to avoid overly restrictive bot blocking when using content distribution networks like Cloudflare or AWS. As I heard repeated many times at a recent conference, if you block AI bots, you have no chance of appearing in the answers they generate. Boost AI search visibility with fresh, relevant content Like with Google and Bing, fresh, relevant content signals to AI algorithms that your site is active and authoritative. Regularly update your website with new articles to maintain visibility in AI-generated searches. Dig deeper: How to optimize your 2025 content strategy for AI-powered SERPs and LLMs Get the newsletter search marketers rely on. Business email address Sign me up! Processing... See terms. AI search content optimization AI search tools utilize advanced language models to understand and generate human-like text. They can: Process vast amounts of data. Identify patterns. Answer user queries precisely. Optimizing for these tools’ discovery mechanisms is crucial to ensuring your content appears in AI-generated searches. Topic- or entity-based keyword research remains a cornerstone of effective SEO. Understanding the informational needs of those you seek to reach and knowing the specific terms and phrases users are likely to search is key. Incorporate these keywords naturally within your content, HTML titles, and headers. AI models excel at contextual understanding, so focus on semantic relevance rather than keyword stuffing for better results. The SEO community is split on the role of structured data or schema tagging in AI searches. Regardless, I recommend using markups like those found on Schema.org. That tagging certainly helps traditional search engines understand the context and meaning of your content. Since Google alone is responsible for over two-thirds of organic search traffic, using structured data tagging makes sense no matter what. By providing clear and organized data, you enhance the chances of content being accurately interpreted and featured in search responses. Dig deeper: AI search is gaining traction, but it isn’t replacing Google: Survey AI search is evolving – but SEO best practices remain critical As AI-powered search tools continue to evolve, the importance of basic SEO best practices cannot be overstated. You can ensure your content remains discoverable in traditional and AI-generated searches by focusing on keyword optimization, structured data, and effective spidering and indexing. Embrace old-school basic SEO principles as you adapt to new technologies. View the full article

A few weeks ago, I reported on how Google was testing showing deeper Google AI Overviews, maybe powered by Gemini 2.0, with over 60 links and citations in them. Well, over the past few weeks, more and more of us are seeing these AI Overviews, with dozens of links within them. And we are asking ourselves, who will click on these links?View the full article

I will start off by saying, I am super confused by this Google Ads email but it says Google is "Improving offline conversion quality in Smart and PMax Campaigns with Store Goals." Starting on February 28, 2025 Google will "increase focus on locally engaged users on channels with higher local intent."View the full article

Microsoft is at it again with its search engine - Bing. Previously, when you searched for Google, they tricked you to think you were searching Bing and then hide Google completely from its search results. Now when you search for Chrome, Gemini, Grok or even Perplexity - you are given a banner to use Microsoft products and not use Google, X or Perplexity.View the full article

For the past few years or so, Google has had a more detailed, almost survey-style review questionnaire for some local results, especially restaurants. Now, according to Claudia Tomina, Google has expanded the questions it asks on those surveys.View the full article

In today’s fast-paced, ever-evolving retail landscape, small business owners must keep a keen eye on the latest trends, insights, and other consumer statistics to stay competitive and informed. Understanding retail statistics empowers small business owners to make data-driven decisions that can optimize their operations, enhance customer experience, and, ultimately, drive revenue growth. To give small business owners a head start, we’ve gathered information on crucial aspects of the retail industry, including consumer behavior, sales strategies, e-commerce, and brick-and-mortar trends. By staying updated with these retail stats, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the complex world of retail, adapt your business strategies, and capitalize on new opportunities as they arise. Overview of the Retail Market A retail market overview helps small business owners understand the industry’s current state, trends, opportunities and challenges. The following statistics offer valuable context that can illuminate the market is direction, providing valuable insights for anyone involved in the retail market. Retail Sales Statistics: A Snapshot Inflation has lowered consumers’ purchasing power despite simultaneous gains in nominal income thanks to the strong labor market. Even though average weekly earnings have increased by 8.3%, real earnings have fallen by 5% during the same timeframe. This lower spending power will negatively impact sales volume. At $45.05 billion in U.S. spending, retail media spending already has far exceeded marketing spend for connected TV, and it’s closing in on traditional TV. In fact, retail media is forecast to grow by more than 20% in the near future, reaching $55.35 billion. Customer experience expectations have never been higher. An astounding 88% of consumers surveyed by Salesforce said the experience a company provides is just as important as its products or services. According to the National Retail Federation, total retail sales are projected to grow between 4% and 6% over previous levels, reaching between $5.1 and $5.2 trillion. In the prior period, annual retail sales increased by 7% compared to the year before, totaling $4.9 trillion. This growth rate surpasses the average annual retail sales growth of 3.6% noted before the pandemic. The Shift from Brick-and-Mortar to Online Shopping Even when customers make a purchase at a brick-and-mortar store, they rely on digital marketing to influence their buying decisions. According to one survey, 59% of in-store shoppers conduct online research prior to purchasing. Likewise, almost two-thirds of shoppers use their phones in-store for reasons including price comparisons, product reviews, advice from friends or family, and product demonstration videos. The same BazaarVoice survey found that 80% of retail shoppers are more likely to buy in-store when the item has a higher price, while 54% say they visit a brick-and-mortar store to check a product’s quality, and 46% say they prefer shopping in-store for instant ownership. It’s too soon for retailers to cease their brock-and-mortar marketing efforts, however. According to a survey of 19,000 consumers, one in four consumers chooses a hybrid shopping experience, mixing physical and digital channels Meanwhile, 72% say they prefer the physical store for all or part of their buying journey. Surprisingly, 81% of Gen Z consumers prefer to shop in brick-and-mortar stores to discover new products, and more than half of them say in-store browsing is a way to disconnect from the digital world. Retail Market Segmentation Retail market segmentation is essential in understanding the diverse range of customer needs, preferences, and purchasing habits. The following facts delve into this crucial aspect of the global retail industry, shedding light on various segments and offering valuable insights to inform targeted marketing strategies and product offerings. Product Category Retail Statistics Motor vehicles and auto parts, as well as food and beverages—two categories with historically low levels of online purchases—are the fastest-growing product categories in e-commerce, no doubt a result of pandemic-related buying behaviors’ lasting effects. Home and kitchen is the most popular product category at Amazon, followed by beauty and personal care, fashion apparel, then toys and games. Because of high competition among sellers with the e-commerce giant, more saturated product categories will have higher advertising costs. Fashion is the most popular online shopping category by global retail e-commerce sales, and it’s expected to reach $990 billion. That represents more than 24% of all retail e-commerce revenue worldwide. Following the fashion product category are electronics, toys, hobbies, and DIY. The most popular online shopping categories in the United States are toys, hobbies, and DIY, with an estimated spending of $258.4 billion, accounting for more than 25% of the projected total U.S. e-commerce revenue. The Geographical Distribution of Retail Sales Of the 9.1 million online retailers around the globe, 2.5 million of them were based in the United States. Among American vendors, 2.1 million sell products on their own e-commerce platforms, 3.2 million sell on Amazon’s marketplace, 110,000 sell through Walmart’s online marketplace, and 317,000 offer items for sale on eBay. Retail statistics show these figures highlight the diverse platforms utilized by online retailers in the U.S. Among global retailers, 48% are based in North America, while 33% come from Europe. The remaining retailers are distributed across the Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the region that includes Africa and the Middle East. Latin American retail markets are witnessing significant revenue growth, increasing by more than 15%. North American retailers, on the other hand, continue to realize the highest return on assets at nearly 9%. Europe is anticipated to capture 39% of the gift retail market primarily because of the gifting culture in countries such as the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Spain. Common gifts in the region feature photo frames and souvenirs, novelty items, and products that are more environmentally friendly. Online Shopping Statistics As online shopping continues to evolve and shape the retail landscape, it’s paramount that retailers stay abreast of the latest trends. Keep reading to explore the most recent developments in e-commerce and gain valuable insights to help your businesses navigate the ever-changing digital retail environment. Additionally, understanding retail statistics can provide further guidance in this dynamic market. E-commerce Retail Sales Growth There now are more than 2.64 billion online shoppers around the world, a number that represents one of every three people on Earth. Astoundingly, the number of global digital shoppers grew by 80 million consumers recently—a 3.1% increase compared to the previous period. The popularity of online shopping continues to drive growth in the e-commerce sector. More than 79% of buyers shop online at least once a month. Of that group, 27% make online purchases once every two weeks, while 22% shop online once a week. In recent times, there have been 842 million online shoppers in China—a 7.6% increase compared to the previous period. For further evidence of the growth, consider that a decade ago, there were just about 194 million people making online purchases in the world’s most populous nation. When purchasing products from online retailers, 74% of consumers expressed concerns about upfront shipping costs, 68% appreciated free returns and estimated delivery times, 59% were interested in in-stock alerts, and 54% looked for notifications about available inventory. After making an online purchase, 60% of consumers expect same-, next- or two-day delivery, and 58% of those shoppers expect free next-day delivery. Mobile Shopping and Retail Statistics One of the primary reasons for the massive increase in mobile shopping is the increased smartphone use among Chinese consumers. Smart devices and mobile phones are operated by more than 1 billion consumers each day. Nearly half of all U.S. consumers who shop online and choose to pick up their orders in-store end up buying additional items during their visit. Among the 9 million U.S. consumers who collect their online orders on-site, 47% report that they frequently purchase extra items when picking up their online orders. Additionally, 17% indicate that they sometimes buy additional items during their in-store pickups. This results in approximately 5.5 million U.S. consumers who either sometimes, often, or always make extra purchases. When asked about their shopping habits, 54% of smartphone users reported that they enjoy window shopping on their mobile devices. This trend aligns with findings that 77% of smartphone users admit to making impulse purchases on their devices just for fun. Retail Sales Channels Retail sales channels play a vital role in connecting businesses with their customers. If you’re interested in the diverse range of channels in the retail sales industry, keep reading for insights that can help businesses identify the most effective avenues for reaching their target audiences. Multichannel Retail Statistics A physical retail presence can boost online sales by serving as a sort of interactive billboard that inspires trust among would-be buyers. Brands typically receive about 37% more web traffic the quarter following a new brick-and-mortar store’s opening. Retailers benefit when they make returns easy. A significant percentage of retailers accept in-store returns of online purchases – and for a good reason, too. A large portion of online shoppers who return items to physical stores will end up spending their refund while in retail stores. This is supported by retail statistics that highlight the positive impact of streamlined return processes. According to the BazaarVoice Shopper Experience Index, customers who use multiple channels when shopping actually spend more money. On average, they spend about 9% more than customers who only interact with a brand through a single channel. This is reflected in the retail statistics. Omnichannel shopping experiences, such as enabling consumers to buy online and pick up their orders at physical stores, boost store visits by 80%. Google reports that global searches for “along my route” have surged by over 1,000% in recent years, while searches for “curbside pickup” have risen by more than 3,000%. In-Store Shopping vs. Online Retail Sales While the adoption of mobile technology in the e-commerce sphere continues to grow, it has yet to surpass the use of more traditional computers for web-based shopping. The average value of online shopping orders in the United States still is generally higher on desktop than mobile devices. In the recent period, for example, shopping purchases made from a computer had an average value of $155, while mobile orders averaged at just more than $112. Tablet orders had the lowest values, averaging less than $100. According to a Shopify survey conducted by Forrester Consulting, about 46% of retailers are planning to increase their investments in digital channels over the next 12 months. Popular investment categories include company-owned online stores, social commerce, custom mobile apps, and livestream selling. Almost half of American shoppers use their cell phones while in physical stores to find better prices online, according to a Pew Research Center study. Another 12% say they’ve used their phones to pay for an item while shopping in a brick-and-mortar store. Retail Industry Market Trends and Forecasts Understanding market trends and forecasts is essential for staying ahead in the competitive retail landscape. Check out the following statistics that highlight emerging patterns and offer valuable predictions for the future, allowing businesses to make informed strategic decisions and capitalize on new opportunities as they arise. Emerging Retail Industry Market Trends As social media’s evolution continues marching boldly forward, opportunities for retailers also increase. According to a Wakefield Research and Square survey, 81% of retailers are planning to expand the number of digital channels they sell in the next 12 months. TikTok is expected to add nearly 10 million social buyers, which is nearly double the combined increase for Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. Much of this growth is attributed to the platform’s popularity among the Gen Z demographic, who frequently make social media purchases after discovering products they like. With a recession looming, budget-conscious shoppers are increasingly purchasing private-label products. The sale of private label products outpaces the sales of branded products by 300%. In fact, private-label products drive 17.4% of U.S. grocery sales in. For example, store brands like Walmart’s Great Value and Equate products are purchased by nearly 73% and 51% of customers, respectively. Retailers welcome this trend since their profit margins from private label products can be 25% to 30% higher than those earned by selling branded products. The push for sustainable products and brands is expected to persist, with brands seeking innovative methods to support environmental efforts. Packaging, for instance, may appear to be a practical afterthought to many, yet it can significantly influence consumers’ decisions. In fact, 86% of consumers are more inclined to purchase a product that features sustainable packaging. Retail statistics indicate the importance of this trend. Retail Market Predictions and Outlook Retailers should have a metaverse strategy to succeed as more consumers immerse themselves in the shared, 3D virtual space. However, depending on their target markets, some brands won’t need to invest as heavily as they might have thought. According to recent KPMG research, 56% of U.S. adults are aware of the metaverse, but only 8% actively frequent it. Retailers might have their eyes on Generation Z, but they also should start paying attention to the next group of consumers. Experts report that Generation Alpha, born in the early part of the 2010s, will number more than 2 billion in the near future. These young shoppers already have $360 million in annual disposable income, and they will make up 11% of the global workforce in the coming years. Packaging isn’t the only retail element impacted by environmentally-conscious consumers. The global apparel resale retail market size grew an estimated 30.1% to $182.4 billion recently. The rapid growth is predicted to continue, with a forecast of 85.5% growth over the next few years, reaching $338.4 billion in global apparel resale sales. High levels of inflation are anticipated to persist, which will continue to influence consumer buying behaviors. The Conference Council’s Expectations Index, which measures consumers’ short-term outlooks for income, business, and labor market conditions, decreased from 74 to 68.1. This latest decline signifies that the index has stayed below 80 for 14 months, a threshold linked to recession in the following 12 months. Total Retail Sales and Economic Impact Both retail sales and their economic impact hold significant implications for small businesses and the wider economy. We found even more statistics to showcase the magnitude of retail sales and their influence on economic growth, offering a broader perspective on the sector’s overall relevance and importance. Retail’s Contribution to the Economy After peaking at 6.5%, the retail trade’s contribution toward the U.S. value-added gross domestic product dropped to 5.8%. However, its contribution toward gross GDP increased at an annual rate of 2.6% in the fourth quarter, following a 3.2% increase in the previous quarter. Demonstrating the U.S. economy’s resilience amidst higher borrowing costs, retail sales at the beginning of the year saw the largest rise in nearly two years, propelled by Americans’ increased purchasing of motor vehicles and other goods. Retail sales remain an effective measure of economic conditions. The data also offers a better picture of whether or not consumers are using their discretionary incomes. People simply stopped shopping when the economy collapsed, and retail sales hit 35-year lows. In recent times, more than 21 million people are employed in the retail trade industry. While employment in the industry has averaged 3.6% annualized growth over the past several years, retail trade employment is expected to increase by just 2.6% this year. FAQs: Retail Statistics What are the most important retail statistics for small business owners to know? The most important retail statistics for small business owners to know include total retail sales figures, market trends and forecasts, consumer behavior and preferences, e-commerce growth rates and retail sales channels’ performance. These retail stats provide insights into the retail landscape, helping small business owners make informed decisions about product offerings, marketing strategies and sales channels. Keeping an eye on emerging trends and consumer demands helps small businesses stay competitive and agile in the fast-paced retail environment. How can you monitor retail sales trends in your industry? To stay informed of retail sales trends in your industry, monitor trusted sources, including industry reports, news outlets, and relevant trade publications. Likewise, attending webinars, conferences, and workshops can provide insights into emerging trends and best practices in the retail industry. Leveraging analytics tools to track sales performance, customer preferences, and engagement metrics also can help you identify patterns and make data-driven decisions. What is the future outlook for the retail market, and how can you adapt? The future outlook for the retail market is marked by continued growth in e-commerce, increased emphasis on omnichannel strategies and evolving consumer preferences towards personalized experiences. To adapt, small business owners should focus on optimizing their online presence, investing in mobile and social commerce and embracing data-driven decision-making. By prioritizing customer engagement and personalized marketing efforts, retailers can ensure their products and services cater to their target audiences’ evolving needs. How do in-store and online retail sales compare, and what does this mean for your business? Both in-store and online retail sales contribute significantly to the overall retail landscape, with online sales witnessing rapid growth in recent years. While brick-and-mortar retail stores remain essential for many customers, e-commerce provides convenience, wider product selection, and easy price comparison. For small retailers, this means adopting an omnichannel approach to engage customers across both physical and digital touchpoints. Try to enhance your online presence, optimize mobile experiences and invest in seamless integration between in-store and internet shopping. Also, be sure you continue to focus on offering exceptional customer service, personalized experiences and competitive pricing to stay relevant and attract customers in this evolving retail environment. What are the key retail market trends and technologies that you should be aware of? Key retail market trends and technologies retailers should be aware of include the growth of e-commerce, the rise of omnichannel retail, the importance of personalized marketing, and the increasing influence of social commerce on retail businesses. Technology plays a crucial role in retail, with innovations like artificial intelligence, augmented and virtual reality, as well as mobile payments shaping customer experiences. To stay competitive, familiarize yourself with these trends and technologies and consider integrating relevant solutions into your business operations. How can you find information on global retail sales, and why is it important for your business? Understanding global retail sales is crucial for your business, as it allows you to identify international trends, opportunities, and challenges that may impact your industry. To obtain trustworthy information on global retail sales, consult reputable sources such as market research reports, industry publications, and statistical databases, including those from Statista, eMarketer, and the World Bank. Additionally, keeping up with news outlets and participating in webinars and conferences centered on global retail sales can offer valuable insights. What resources does the National Retail Federation offer to small business owners seeking retail statistics and insights? The National Retail Federation offers a wealth of resources for small business owners seeking out retail industry statistics and insights. The organization’s website features research reports, articles and infographics covering various aspects of the retail industry, including market trends, sales forecasts and consumer behavior. The NRF also hosts events, webinars, and conferences that provide valuable networking and learning opportunities. By joining the NRF, small business owners can gain access to exclusive content, research, and educational resources, empowering them to stay informed about the latest retail developments and make data-driven decisions for their small businesses. Image: Envato Elements This article, "Must-Know Retail Statistics for Small Business Owners" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

In today’s fast-paced, ever-evolving retail landscape, small business owners must keep a keen eye on the latest trends, insights, and other consumer statistics to stay competitive and informed. Understanding retail statistics empowers small business owners to make data-driven decisions that can optimize their operations, enhance customer experience, and, ultimately, drive revenue growth. To give small business owners a head start, we’ve gathered information on crucial aspects of the retail industry, including consumer behavior, sales strategies, e-commerce, and brick-and-mortar trends. By staying updated with these retail stats, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the complex world of retail, adapt your business strategies, and capitalize on new opportunities as they arise. Overview of the Retail Market A retail market overview helps small business owners understand the industry’s current state, trends, opportunities and challenges. The following statistics offer valuable context that can illuminate the market is direction, providing valuable insights for anyone involved in the retail market. Retail Sales Statistics: A Snapshot Inflation has lowered consumers’ purchasing power despite simultaneous gains in nominal income thanks to the strong labor market. Even though average weekly earnings have increased by 8.3%, real earnings have fallen by 5% during the same timeframe. This lower spending power will negatively impact sales volume. At $45.05 billion in U.S. spending, retail media spending already has far exceeded marketing spend for connected TV, and it’s closing in on traditional TV. In fact, retail media is forecast to grow by more than 20% in the near future, reaching $55.35 billion. Customer experience expectations have never been higher. An astounding 88% of consumers surveyed by Salesforce said the experience a company provides is just as important as its products or services. According to the National Retail Federation, total retail sales are projected to grow between 4% and 6% over previous levels, reaching between $5.1 and $5.2 trillion. In the prior period, annual retail sales increased by 7% compared to the year before, totaling $4.9 trillion. This growth rate surpasses the average annual retail sales growth of 3.6% noted before the pandemic. The Shift from Brick-and-Mortar to Online Shopping Even when customers make a purchase at a brick-and-mortar store, they rely on digital marketing to influence their buying decisions. According to one survey, 59% of in-store shoppers conduct online research prior to purchasing. Likewise, almost two-thirds of shoppers use their phones in-store for reasons including price comparisons, product reviews, advice from friends or family, and product demonstration videos. The same BazaarVoice survey found that 80% of retail shoppers are more likely to buy in-store when the item has a higher price, while 54% say they visit a brick-and-mortar store to check a product’s quality, and 46% say they prefer shopping in-store for instant ownership. It’s too soon for retailers to cease their brock-and-mortar marketing efforts, however. According to a survey of 19,000 consumers, one in four consumers chooses a hybrid shopping experience, mixing physical and digital channels Meanwhile, 72% say they prefer the physical store for all or part of their buying journey. Surprisingly, 81% of Gen Z consumers prefer to shop in brick-and-mortar stores to discover new products, and more than half of them say in-store browsing is a way to disconnect from the digital world. Retail Market Segmentation Retail market segmentation is essential in understanding the diverse range of customer needs, preferences, and purchasing habits. The following facts delve into this crucial aspect of the global retail industry, shedding light on various segments and offering valuable insights to inform targeted marketing strategies and product offerings. Product Category Retail Statistics Motor vehicles and auto parts, as well as food and beverages—two categories with historically low levels of online purchases—are the fastest-growing product categories in e-commerce, no doubt a result of pandemic-related buying behaviors’ lasting effects. Home and kitchen is the most popular product category at Amazon, followed by beauty and personal care, fashion apparel, then toys and games. Because of high competition among sellers with the e-commerce giant, more saturated product categories will have higher advertising costs. Fashion is the most popular online shopping category by global retail e-commerce sales, and it’s expected to reach $990 billion. That represents more than 24% of all retail e-commerce revenue worldwide. Following the fashion product category are electronics, toys, hobbies, and DIY. The most popular online shopping categories in the United States are toys, hobbies, and DIY, with an estimated spending of $258.4 billion, accounting for more than 25% of the projected total U.S. e-commerce revenue. The Geographical Distribution of Retail Sales Of the 9.1 million online retailers around the globe, 2.5 million of them were based in the United States. Among American vendors, 2.1 million sell products on their own e-commerce platforms, 3.2 million sell on Amazon’s marketplace, 110,000 sell through Walmart’s online marketplace, and 317,000 offer items for sale on eBay. Retail statistics show these figures highlight the diverse platforms utilized by online retailers in the U.S. Among global retailers, 48% are based in North America, while 33% come from Europe. The remaining retailers are distributed across the Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the region that includes Africa and the Middle East. Latin American retail markets are witnessing significant revenue growth, increasing by more than 15%. North American retailers, on the other hand, continue to realize the highest return on assets at nearly 9%. Europe is anticipated to capture 39% of the gift retail market primarily because of the gifting culture in countries such as the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Spain. Common gifts in the region feature photo frames and souvenirs, novelty items, and products that are more environmentally friendly. Online Shopping Statistics As online shopping continues to evolve and shape the retail landscape, it’s paramount that retailers stay abreast of the latest trends. Keep reading to explore the most recent developments in e-commerce and gain valuable insights to help your businesses navigate the ever-changing digital retail environment. Additionally, understanding retail statistics can provide further guidance in this dynamic market. E-commerce Retail Sales Growth There now are more than 2.64 billion online shoppers around the world, a number that represents one of every three people on Earth. Astoundingly, the number of global digital shoppers grew by 80 million consumers recently—a 3.1% increase compared to the previous period. The popularity of online shopping continues to drive growth in the e-commerce sector. More than 79% of buyers shop online at least once a month. Of that group, 27% make online purchases once every two weeks, while 22% shop online once a week. In recent times, there have been 842 million online shoppers in China—a 7.6% increase compared to the previous period. For further evidence of the growth, consider that a decade ago, there were just about 194 million people making online purchases in the world’s most populous nation. When purchasing products from online retailers, 74% of consumers expressed concerns about upfront shipping costs, 68% appreciated free returns and estimated delivery times, 59% were interested in in-stock alerts, and 54% looked for notifications about available inventory. After making an online purchase, 60% of consumers expect same-, next- or two-day delivery, and 58% of those shoppers expect free next-day delivery. Mobile Shopping and Retail Statistics One of the primary reasons for the massive increase in mobile shopping is the increased smartphone use among Chinese consumers. Smart devices and mobile phones are operated by more than 1 billion consumers each day. Nearly half of all U.S. consumers who shop online and choose to pick up their orders in-store end up buying additional items during their visit. Among the 9 million U.S. consumers who collect their online orders on-site, 47% report that they frequently purchase extra items when picking up their online orders. Additionally, 17% indicate that they sometimes buy additional items during their in-store pickups. This results in approximately 5.5 million U.S. consumers who either sometimes, often, or always make extra purchases. When asked about their shopping habits, 54% of smartphone users reported that they enjoy window shopping on their mobile devices. This trend aligns with findings that 77% of smartphone users admit to making impulse purchases on their devices just for fun. Retail Sales Channels Retail sales channels play a vital role in connecting businesses with their customers. If you’re interested in the diverse range of channels in the retail sales industry, keep reading for insights that can help businesses identify the most effective avenues for reaching their target audiences. Multichannel Retail Statistics A physical retail presence can boost online sales by serving as a sort of interactive billboard that inspires trust among would-be buyers. Brands typically receive about 37% more web traffic the quarter following a new brick-and-mortar store’s opening. Retailers benefit when they make returns easy. A significant percentage of retailers accept in-store returns of online purchases – and for a good reason, too. A large portion of online shoppers who return items to physical stores will end up spending their refund while in retail stores. This is supported by retail statistics that highlight the positive impact of streamlined return processes. According to the BazaarVoice Shopper Experience Index, customers who use multiple channels when shopping actually spend more money. On average, they spend about 9% more than customers who only interact with a brand through a single channel. This is reflected in the retail statistics. Omnichannel shopping experiences, such as enabling consumers to buy online and pick up their orders at physical stores, boost store visits by 80%. Google reports that global searches for “along my route” have surged by over 1,000% in recent years, while searches for “curbside pickup” have risen by more than 3,000%. In-Store Shopping vs. Online Retail Sales While the adoption of mobile technology in the e-commerce sphere continues to grow, it has yet to surpass the use of more traditional computers for web-based shopping. The average value of online shopping orders in the United States still is generally higher on desktop than mobile devices. In the recent period, for example, shopping purchases made from a computer had an average value of $155, while mobile orders averaged at just more than $112. Tablet orders had the lowest values, averaging less than $100. According to a Shopify survey conducted by Forrester Consulting, about 46% of retailers are planning to increase their investments in digital channels over the next 12 months. Popular investment categories include company-owned online stores, social commerce, custom mobile apps, and livestream selling. Almost half of American shoppers use their cell phones while in physical stores to find better prices online, according to a Pew Research Center study. Another 12% say they’ve used their phones to pay for an item while shopping in a brick-and-mortar store. Retail Industry Market Trends and Forecasts Understanding market trends and forecasts is essential for staying ahead in the competitive retail landscape. Check out the following statistics that highlight emerging patterns and offer valuable predictions for the future, allowing businesses to make informed strategic decisions and capitalize on new opportunities as they arise. Emerging Retail Industry Market Trends As social media’s evolution continues marching boldly forward, opportunities for retailers also increase. According to a Wakefield Research and Square survey, 81% of retailers are planning to expand the number of digital channels they sell in the next 12 months. TikTok is expected to add nearly 10 million social buyers, which is nearly double the combined increase for Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. Much of this growth is attributed to the platform’s popularity among the Gen Z demographic, who frequently make social media purchases after discovering products they like. With a recession looming, budget-conscious shoppers are increasingly purchasing private-label products. The sale of private label products outpaces the sales of branded products by 300%. In fact, private-label products drive 17.4% of U.S. grocery sales in. For example, store brands like Walmart’s Great Value and Equate products are purchased by nearly 73% and 51% of customers, respectively. Retailers welcome this trend since their profit margins from private label products can be 25% to 30% higher than those earned by selling branded products. The push for sustainable products and brands is expected to persist, with brands seeking innovative methods to support environmental efforts. Packaging, for instance, may appear to be a practical afterthought to many, yet it can significantly influence consumers’ decisions. In fact, 86% of consumers are more inclined to purchase a product that features sustainable packaging. Retail statistics indicate the importance of this trend. Retail Market Predictions and Outlook Retailers should have a metaverse strategy to succeed as more consumers immerse themselves in the shared, 3D virtual space. However, depending on their target markets, some brands won’t need to invest as heavily as they might have thought. According to recent KPMG research, 56% of U.S. adults are aware of the metaverse, but only 8% actively frequent it. Retailers might have their eyes on Generation Z, but they also should start paying attention to the next group of consumers. Experts report that Generation Alpha, born in the early part of the 2010s, will number more than 2 billion in the near future. These young shoppers already have $360 million in annual disposable income, and they will make up 11% of the global workforce in the coming years. Packaging isn’t the only retail element impacted by environmentally-conscious consumers. The global apparel resale retail market size grew an estimated 30.1% to $182.4 billion recently. The rapid growth is predicted to continue, with a forecast of 85.5% growth over the next few years, reaching $338.4 billion in global apparel resale sales. High levels of inflation are anticipated to persist, which will continue to influence consumer buying behaviors. The Conference Council’s Expectations Index, which measures consumers’ short-term outlooks for income, business, and labor market conditions, decreased from 74 to 68.1. This latest decline signifies that the index has stayed below 80 for 14 months, a threshold linked to recession in the following 12 months. Total Retail Sales and Economic Impact Both retail sales and their economic impact hold significant implications for small businesses and the wider economy. We found even more statistics to showcase the magnitude of retail sales and their influence on economic growth, offering a broader perspective on the sector’s overall relevance and importance. Retail’s Contribution to the Economy After peaking at 6.5%, the retail trade’s contribution toward the U.S. value-added gross domestic product dropped to 5.8%. However, its contribution toward gross GDP increased at an annual rate of 2.6% in the fourth quarter, following a 3.2% increase in the previous quarter. Demonstrating the U.S. economy’s resilience amidst higher borrowing costs, retail sales at the beginning of the year saw the largest rise in nearly two years, propelled by Americans’ increased purchasing of motor vehicles and other goods. Retail sales remain an effective measure of economic conditions. The data also offers a better picture of whether or not consumers are using their discretionary incomes. People simply stopped shopping when the economy collapsed, and retail sales hit 35-year lows. In recent times, more than 21 million people are employed in the retail trade industry. While employment in the industry has averaged 3.6% annualized growth over the past several years, retail trade employment is expected to increase by just 2.6% this year. FAQs: Retail Statistics What are the most important retail statistics for small business owners to know? The most important retail statistics for small business owners to know include total retail sales figures, market trends and forecasts, consumer behavior and preferences, e-commerce growth rates and retail sales channels’ performance. These retail stats provide insights into the retail landscape, helping small business owners make informed decisions about product offerings, marketing strategies and sales channels. Keeping an eye on emerging trends and consumer demands helps small businesses stay competitive and agile in the fast-paced retail environment. How can you monitor retail sales trends in your industry? To stay informed of retail sales trends in your industry, monitor trusted sources, including industry reports, news outlets, and relevant trade publications. Likewise, attending webinars, conferences, and workshops can provide insights into emerging trends and best practices in the retail industry. Leveraging analytics tools to track sales performance, customer preferences, and engagement metrics also can help you identify patterns and make data-driven decisions. What is the future outlook for the retail market, and how can you adapt? The future outlook for the retail market is marked by continued growth in e-commerce, increased emphasis on omnichannel strategies and evolving consumer preferences towards personalized experiences. To adapt, small business owners should focus on optimizing their online presence, investing in mobile and social commerce and embracing data-driven decision-making. By prioritizing customer engagement and personalized marketing efforts, retailers can ensure their products and services cater to their target audiences’ evolving needs. How do in-store and online retail sales compare, and what does this mean for your business? Both in-store and online retail sales contribute significantly to the overall retail landscape, with online sales witnessing rapid growth in recent years. While brick-and-mortar retail stores remain essential for many customers, e-commerce provides convenience, wider product selection, and easy price comparison. For small retailers, this means adopting an omnichannel approach to engage customers across both physical and digital touchpoints. Try to enhance your online presence, optimize mobile experiences and invest in seamless integration between in-store and internet shopping. Also, be sure you continue to focus on offering exceptional customer service, personalized experiences and competitive pricing to stay relevant and attract customers in this evolving retail environment. What are the key retail market trends and technologies that you should be aware of? Key retail market trends and technologies retailers should be aware of include the growth of e-commerce, the rise of omnichannel retail, the importance of personalized marketing, and the increasing influence of social commerce on retail businesses. Technology plays a crucial role in retail, with innovations like artificial intelligence, augmented and virtual reality, as well as mobile payments shaping customer experiences. To stay competitive, familiarize yourself with these trends and technologies and consider integrating relevant solutions into your business operations. How can you find information on global retail sales, and why is it important for your business? Understanding global retail sales is crucial for your business, as it allows you to identify international trends, opportunities, and challenges that may impact your industry. To obtain trustworthy information on global retail sales, consult reputable sources such as market research reports, industry publications, and statistical databases, including those from Statista, eMarketer, and the World Bank. Additionally, keeping up with news outlets and participating in webinars and conferences centered on global retail sales can offer valuable insights. What resources does the National Retail Federation offer to small business owners seeking retail statistics and insights? The National Retail Federation offers a wealth of resources for small business owners seeking out retail industry statistics and insights. The organization’s website features research reports, articles and infographics covering various aspects of the retail industry, including market trends, sales forecasts and consumer behavior. The NRF also hosts events, webinars, and conferences that provide valuable networking and learning opportunities. By joining the NRF, small business owners can gain access to exclusive content, research, and educational resources, empowering them to stay informed about the latest retail developments and make data-driven decisions for their small businesses. Image: Envato Elements This article, "Must-Know Retail Statistics for Small Business Owners" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Apple seems like it may be preparing integration Google Gemini in Apple Intelligence as an option for its users to select. Aaron Perris from MacRumors spotted hints in the iOS 18.4 beta code that Google is listed alongside OpenAI as a "third party model."View the full article

EU and Trump administration differ over blaming Russia in rival draft resolutionsView the full article

Hello and welcome to Modern CEO! I’m Stephanie Mehta, CEO and chief content officer of Mansueto Ventures. Each week this newsletter explores inclusive approaches to leadership drawn from conversations with executives and entrepreneurs, and from the pages of Inc. and Fast Company. If you received this newsletter from a friend, you can sign up to get it yourself every Monday morning. It’s a tough time to be in the business of environmental sustainability. Earlier this month, seven of the world’s 10 largest countries missed a United Nations deadline for submitting updated emissions-cutting plans, according to Bloomberg. Starting late last year, financial institutions such as Goldman Sachs, Wells Fargo, Citigroup, and others left the Net-Zero Banking Alliance, a coalition of companies committed to reducing their carbon footprints. These moves and many others come as President Donald Trump and his appointees seek to eliminate federal government programs that tackle global warming. Even so, Jonquil Hackenberg, CEO of leading circular economy charity Ellen MacArthur Foundation, is navigating this new world with a mix of optimism and pragmatism. The circular economy is a system where materials are recycled, refurbished, reused, or composted and where farming is designed to increase biodiversity. In an exclusive interview with Modern CEO, Hackenberg underscored the foundation’s commitment to addressing global challenges such as climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss. The circular route to waste reduction A recent example of the foundation’s work is the Big Food Redesign Challenge, an 18-month project aimed at helping the food sector design environmentally friendly products. Earlier this month, the foundation showcased 141 products by 57 organizations, including Nestlé and grocery chain Waitrose & Partners, which use circular economy and regenerative agriculture principles. In addition to such programs, Hackenberg also talked about the role circularity plays in non-environmental issues like supply-chain resiliency. “We are looking at critical raw materials through the lens of material security, which plays very well into the new administration and beyond,” she says. A sustainable supply-chain solution Studies suggest that recycling or reuse of materials can help offset disruptions in supply chains due to shortages or geopolitical factors. The European Union’s Joint Research Center, for example, recently issued a report examining how boosting circularity, along with other approaches, could help reduce Europe’s dependency on China, Japan, Russia, Kazakhstan, Saudi Arabia, and Ukraine for materials used to make titanium metal products. Companies in the EU use titanium primarily in planes but also in cars, robots, and 3D printing. Hackenberg’s background makes her well-equipped to make the practical case for the foundation’s mission. She previously served as CEO of Eunomia Research and Consulting, a social-environmental consultancy, and before that was global head of sustainability and climate response at PA Consulting. “My experience is really in large-scale transformation,” she says. The move to a circular economy “is the largest-scale transformation we’re going to face.” Indeed, despite early gains—75 countries have circular economy roadmaps and 55% of businesses, including IKEA and Dell, have made commitments to circularity—the movement appears to be stalled. The most recent Circularity Gap Report found that just 7.2% of materials that entered the economy in 2023 were “secondary,” or non-virgin, down from 9.1% of materials in 2018. Circularity logic Driving further transformation may require highlighting the way circularity can support local economies, for example. “If you are looking at governments that are perhaps more protectionist, who are asking, ‘How do I help and protect our own economy?’ It’s a ripe playing field for a circular economy to create new value opportunities and new jobs without global inputs,” Hackenberg says. Hackenberg’s broad framing of the benefits of circularity mirrors the way other nonprofits and many businesses are trying to reposition themselves in the Trump era. Fast Company recently reported on how cleantech startups have started emphasizing their role in national security. But the Ellen MacArthur Foundation isn’t walking back its commitment to climate and biodiversity issues. “We need courage and leadership to stay the course,” she says. “Politics will come and go, but facts back up that we are scraping at the barrels of planetary boundaries. Eliminating waste on our streets and in our oceans is a nonpartisan issue.” How is your company handling topics under fire? Is your company reframing the way you talk about environmental sustainability, inclusion, or other topics that are under fire? Send your comments to me at stephaniemehta@mansueto.com. I’d like to share some of your insights in an upcoming newsletter. Read more: virtuous circles Fast Company’s best circular design of last year How HP is using a supply “reset” to advance the circular economy Meet Chairish, an 11-year-old, used-furniture marketplace and an Inc. Best in Business honoree View the full article

On Saturday, the Washington Nationals baseball team played their first spring training game of the season. I was listening to the radio call in the background as I went about my day. I also, however, kept an eye on a community blog called Talk Nats. The site moderators had posted an article about today’s game. As play unfolded, a group of Nationals fans gathered in the comment threads to discuss the unfolding action. Much of the discussion focused on specific plays. “Nasty from Ferrer,” noted a commenter, soon after one of the team’s best relief pitchers, Jose Ferrer, struck out two batters. “Looks like we took the Ferreri [sic] out of the garage,” someone else replied. There were also jokes, such as when, early in the game, someone deadpanned: “Anyone who K’s [strikes out] is cut.” As well as more general discussion of the season ahead. If you followed the thread long enough, it became clear that many of the commenters know each other, while others were meeting for the first time. As the game wrapped up, someone mentions that they’re listening from a part of Canada that recently received three feet of snow. Another commentator replied by recalling a trip they took to that same area: “It was amazing.” Ultimately, over 540 comments were left over the duration of an otherwise uneventful, early season exhibition match. I first wrote about Talk Nats in a 2023 article for The New Yorker, titled “We Don’t Need Another Twitter.” In that piece, I was responding specifically to the launch of Meta’s Threads platform, but I had a more general point as well: perhaps it had been a mistake to try to organize the internet’s activity around a small number of massive, privately-controlled platforms, used by hundreds of millions of users all at once. “Forcing millions of people into the same shared conversation is unnatural, requiring aggressive curation that in turn leads to the type of supercharged engagement that seems to leave everyone upset and exhausted,” I wrote. “Aggregation as a goal in this context survives…for the simple reason that it’s lucrative.” Boutique sites like Talk Nats, by contrast, offer something closer to the original vision for the internet, which was more focused on connection and discovery; a place where a baseball fan from Canada could spend an afternoon delighting with a few dozen of his likeminded brethren about a lazy afternoon baseball game in Florida. This is the internet as a source of joy. And it’s the opposite of the giddy paranoia or coldly-optimized numbness delivered on massive platforms like X or TikTok. I was thinking about that New Yorker piece today as I was following the game on Talk Nats. Those ideas, it occurred to me, are even more true right now than they were when I first published them. “I declare the global social space we are building to be naturally independent of the tyrannies you seek to impose on us,” wrote John Perry Barlow in his seminal 1996 document, A Declaration of the Independence of Cyberspace. “You have no moral right to rule us nor do you possess any methods of enforcement we have true reason to fear.” In the thirty years that passed, we have allowed exactly this type of soul-deadening tyranny to take hold of cyberspace — an unavoidable consequence of consolidating this once distributed and quirky medium into a small number of massive platforms. I really enjoyed my time today on Talk Nats. I didn’t come away angry or depressed, and was more uplifted than brought down. Maybe it’s time to declare independence once again. ##### In other news… –> For another take on this same topic, see River Page’s recent Free Press essay, “The Online Right is Building a Monster,” which does a good job of detailing the unsavory dynamics that can arise on massive internet platforms. (His critiques of both the online right and online left hit home in this one.) The solution to the woes Page documents? Stop using these services! –> In the audio world, on Episode 341 of my podcast, released earlier this morning, I extract a lesson about the importance (and difficulty) of fighting overload in our digital world. –> Meanwhile, as long as we’re discussing meaningful online spaces, I’ll point your attention over to The Growth Equation, where my friends Steve and Brad have posted another one of their (rightfully) famed manifestos: “How to Save Youth Sports.” [ read | subscribe ] The post Back to the (Internet) Future appeared first on Cal Newport. View the full article

On Saturday, the Washington Nationals baseball team played their first spring training game of the season. I was listening to the radio call in the background as I went about my day. I also, however, kept an eye on a community blog called Talk Nats. The site moderators had posted an article about today’s game. As play unfolded, a group of Nationals fans gathered in the comment threads to discuss the unfolding action. Much of the discussion focused on specific plays. “Nasty from Ferrer,” noted a commenter, soon after one of the team’s best relief pitchers, Jose Ferrer, struck out two batters. “Looks like we took the Ferreri [sic] out of the garage,” someone else replied. There were also jokes, such as when, early in the game, someone deadpanned: “Anyone who K’s [strikes out] is cut.” As well as more general discussion of the season ahead. If you followed the thread long enough, it became clear that many of the commenters know each other, while others were meeting for the first time. As the game wrapped up, someone mentions that they’re listening from a part of Canada that recently received three feet of snow. Another commentator replied by recalling a trip they took to that same area: “It was amazing.” Ultimately, over 540 comments were left over the duration of an otherwise uneventful, early season exhibition match. I first wrote about Talk Nats in a 2023 article for The New Yorker, titled “We Don’t Need Another Twitter.” In that piece, I was responding specifically to the launch of Meta’s Threads platform, but I had a more general point as well: perhaps it had been a mistake to try to organize the internet’s activity around a small number of massive, privately-controlled platforms, used by hundreds of millions of users all at once. “Forcing millions of people into the same shared conversation is unnatural, requiring aggressive curation that in turn leads to the type of supercharged engagement that seems to leave everyone upset and exhausted,” I wrote. “Aggregation as a goal in this context survives…for the simple reason that it’s lucrative.” Boutique sites like Talk Nats, by contrast, offer something closer to the original vision for the internet, which was more focused on connection and discovery; a place where a baseball fan from Canada could spend an afternoon delighting with a few dozen of his likeminded brethren about a lazy afternoon baseball game in Florida. This is the internet as a source of joy. And it’s the opposite of the giddy paranoia or coldly-optimized numbness delivered on massive platforms like X or TikTok. I was thinking about that New Yorker piece today as I was following the game on Talk Nats. Those ideas, it occurred to me, are even more true right now than they were when I first published them. “I declare the global social space we are building to be naturally independent of the tyrannies you seek to impose on us,” wrote John Perry Barlow in his seminal 1996 document, A Declaration of the Independence of Cyberspace. “You have no moral right to rule us nor do you possess any methods of enforcement we have true reason to fear.” In the thirty years that passed, we have allowed exactly this type of soul-deadening tyranny to take hold of cyberspace — an unavoidable consequence of consolidating this once distributed and quirky medium into a small number of massive platforms. I really enjoyed my time today on Talk Nats. I didn’t come away angry or depressed, and was more uplifted than brought down. Maybe it’s time to declare independence once again. ##### In other news… –> For another take on this same topic, see River Page’s recent Free Press essay, “The Online Right is Building a Monster,” which does a good job of detailing the unsavory dynamics that can arise on massive internet platforms. (His critiques of both the online right and online left hit home in this one.) The solution to the woes Page documents? Stop using these services! –> In the audio world, on Episode 341 of my podcast, released earlier this morning, I extract a lesson about the importance (and difficulty) of fighting overload in our digital world. –> Meanwhile, as long as we’re discussing meaningful online spaces, I’ll point your attention over to The Growth Equation, where my friends Steve and Brad have posted another one of their (rightfully) famed manifestos: “How to Save Youth Sports.” [ read | subscribe ] The post Back to the (Internet) Future appeared first on Cal Newport. View the full article

Europe will have to defend liberal democracy without American supportView the full article

iPhone maker also commits to building manufacturing facility in Houston as tech group courts TrumpView the full article

With enrollment on the rise, the California Polytechnic State University in seaside San Luis Obispo has found itself staring down a familiar California problem: a severe housing shortage. “Cal Poly’s located in this beautiful town of San Luis Obispo. That is one of our competitive advantages, but it also means that everybody else wants to live here, too,” says Mike McCormick, vice president of facilities management and development at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo This desirability poses a problem for the university, which has seen enrollment grow in recent years, with trendlines suggesting an additional 4,000 students by the end of the decade. “It’s really hard for us to grow without providing housing,” McCormick says. “The city simply can’t absorb any of it. So that’s what’s driving our program.” That’s led the university to launch an ambitious, fast-paced, and possibly precedent-setting dormitory building project that will add 4,200 beds to the university’s campus housing inventory within just four years. The housing—nine buildings primarily made up of six-bed, three-room suites—will be built through modular construction inside a factory in Los Angeles. It will be the largest modular housing construction project in the country. [Image: courtesy Steinberg Hart Architects] The university partnered with FullStack Modular, a company specializing in industrialized construction that has previously built modular apartment buildings up to 15 stories tall, to produce the much-needed housing units quickly and affordably. Construction will commence later this year at FullStack Modular’s Los Angeles factory, and the first of nine new dormitory buildings is scheduled for occupancy in Fall 2026. FullStack Modular emerged in 2016 after a major 15-building modular construction project connected to the Barclay’s Center arena in Brooklyn faltered. Just one of the project’s buildings, a 32-story tower, was completed. It was, at the time, the tallest modular project in the world. Roger Krulak, an executive who worked on that project, created FullStack Modular and bought out the factory and the production process, and has chipped away at making a market for factory-built buildings ever since. [Image: courtesy Steinberg Hart Architects] As the largest modular construction project in the country, the 4,200-bed project now underway in California represents a high-profile test of the modular approach. It’s also a no-brainer example of how modular construction can be used to pump out a fairly cookie-cutter type of building—thousands of dorm suites—fast and cheap. “We can predict timing and costs and repetitiveness and all of the economies of scale that you hope for in an industrialized process,” says Krulak. [Image: courtesy Steinberg Hart Architects] McCormick says the university was quick to latch onto the idea of factory-based construction for this project. That’s partly due to the lack of construction workers in the area to build a 4,200-bed project, and a lack of space to house workers who might relocate there for such a project. “Using traditional methods, we would import a workforce from Los Angeles, from the Valley, from San Francisco, and they would all be looking for housing while they’re here,” McCormick says. “That just exacerbates the problem that we’re trying to solve in the first place.” Building the project in a factory solves the workforce problem. It also brings the cost of construction down by systematizing the design into repeatable forms. “It doesn’t make sense to build this much housing and not take advantage of the repeatability,” McCormick says. FullStack Modular is currently building a prototype of the six-bed dorm suite that will make up about 80% of the project’s square footage. Krulak says it will be used to fine-tune the design before putting the factory into full production mode later this year. When underway, the process is expected to move twice as fast as conventional construction, and with much greater certainty over material and labor costs. Finding an affordable construction solution is not just a speculative real estate decision. At Cal Poly, and other universities across the country, housing is now more expensive than tuition. Modular housing could prove to be one way to increase supply and reduce costs. “The CSU is the largest university in the country. We have needs for housing all over the place,” McCormick says. “It’s a common problem, especially here in California, so we’re hoping that we create something that is absolutely transportable to other universities.” View the full article

Imposter syndrome, perfectionism and people pleasing are just some of the pervasive norms we’ve come to accept—and even expect—from high-achievers. And when we hear advice about how we can mitigate this internal strife, we hear phrases like ‘fake it to you make it’. All too often, the self-criticism, insecurity, and harsh self-judgement remains. Take for example Sara, a high-achieving marketing director who recently had a major campaign launch falter. When reality fell significantly short of projected targets, she immediately blamed herself. “I spiraled into harsh self-criticism, working excessive hours, and neglecting my wellbeing to try and make up for what we’d lost. I knew I was being too hard on myself—but I thought if I could just push through, I’d be able to salvage some success.” If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Many leaders struggle to show themselves compassion, in part due to the archaic belief that we have to push ourselves harder and harder to achieve results. As a result, we end up tying so much of our self-worth to our outputs, which is a dangerous territory. But research shows that we can achieve incredible results by cultivating self-compassion and fiercely holding ourselves accountable while being kind to ourselves along the way. Self-compassion is not weakness According to leading researcher and editor of the Handbook of Self-Compassion Amy Finlay-Jones, self-compassion is “treating yourself with the same kindness you would offer a dear friend.” And as Finlay-Jones explained to us, an increasing body of research shows that it’s crucial for effective leadership. Don’t confuse self-compassion with self-indulgence or self-care. As Finlay-Jones framed it, self-compassion isn’t “just about being nice to ourselves.” Instead, it’s similar to replacing self-criticism with self-understanding and acknowledging our humanity. She emphasized, “It’s not about letting ourselves off the hook,” but about approaching challenges with a more balanced perspective, which fosters both self-kindness and a commitment to growth. Resilience through self-compassion Studies show that leaders who are self-compassionate are better equipped to handle stress, navigate setbacks. They also create a more supportive team environment. That’s because self-compassionate leaders have increased emotional regulation which reduces the likelihood of burnout and fosters work environments that are positive and nurturing. Leaders who cultivate self-compassion are also better equipped to handle setbacks and support their teams through adversity because they possess a stronger ability to “take accountability for their behavior, for their lives,” Finlay-Jones explained. Leaders who are highly self-critical, on the other hand, are more likely to project blame elsewhere out of insecurity and fear or failure. Reap the benefits of self-compassion When leaders show themselves a lack of compassion, like Sara did, it often leads to counterproductive behaviors and undesirable outcomes for themselves and their teams. In contrast, self-compassion can lead to the following benefits, which extends beyond the individual: Better emotional regulation: Self-compassion improves emotional regulation, which is crucial for leaders facing stressful situations. Finlay-Jones emphasized the importance of “being aware of how we’re feeling during times of difficulty and really being curious about our emotions and our experiences.” This allows leaders to manage their emotional responses more effectively, which prevents impulsive decisions. Reduced burnout and increased resilience: The relentless demands of leadership often lead to burnout. However, self-compassion acts as a buffer against this. By treating themselves with kindness and understanding, leaders can prevent the downward spiral of self-criticism and exhaustion. This allows for a more compassionate response to setbacks. Improved decision-making: Interestingly, when faced with difficult decisions, self-compassionate leaders are less likely to succumb to emotional biases and more likely to consider multiple perspectives. Stronger team dynamics and increased collaboration: By modeling self-compassionate behaviors, leaders encourage open communication, mutual respect, and a shared sense of purpose. Finlay-Jones shares that self-compassion can contribute to a leader’s ability to create “a culture of psychological safety” where team members feel safe to make mistakes and learn from them. Enhanced ethical leadership: Self-compassion promotes ethical leadership by encouraging leaders to prioritize the individual wellbeing of their teams and make decisions based on empathy and fairness. Leaders who practice self-compassion are better at recognizing and addressing issues of injustice and inequality. 4 ways to improve your self-compassion If you’re looking for ways to bolster your self-compassion and improve your leadership, you might want to consider the following practices: Cultivate mindfulness: This involves developing the ability to observe your thoughts and emotions without judgment. Recognize them as transient experiences rather than fixed realities. Says Finlay-Jones, “It’s about being aware of how we’re feeling during times of difficulty, and really being curious about our emotions and our experiences.” Embrace shared humanity: An important component of self-compassion is understanding that we’re not alone in our struggles. On the contrary, even for leaders, setbacks and difficult emotions are a universal part of the human experience. This perspective shifts the focus from flagellating yourself with blame, judgement and even shame, to a more compassionate understanding of what you’re going through. Practice self-kindness: Imagine your dearest friend, a child or another loved one. Now imagine extending the same empathy, understanding, and compassion to yourself that would extend to that person. What would that look and feel like? What language or gestures would you use to demonstrate your empathy, understanding and compassion towards that person? How might it feel to direct that language and those gestures of kindness towards yourself? Establish healthy boundaries: Many people struggle to extend kindness to themselves. The “yin and yang” of self-compassion, as Finlay Jones noted, recognises the need for both tender self-care and assertive boundary-setting. This requires the courage to say ‘no’ to unreasonable demands. Cultivating self-compassion is not a once off, but an ongoing process that requires regular practice and self-reflection. High achievers might find it uncomfortable, but leaders who embrace self-compassion stand to enhance their wellbeing and create a more positive, supportive, and successful work environment. View the full article

Poshmark has revolutionized the way we buy and sell clothes online, making it easier and more accessible than ever. As a standout platform, it’s sparked a new era in the online resale shopping landscape, offering both buyers and sellers a dynamic marketplace. However, the online landscape is expansive, and for individuals aiming to broaden their business or personal selling opportunities, there are additional resale sites ready to be discovered. From vintage gems on Etsy to high-end items on The RealReal, this guide serves as your gateway to enhancing your online selling experience. Why Poshmark Has Become a Favorite for Selling Clothes Poshmark shines as a go-to for those learning how to sell clothes online, thanks to its user-friendly platform that makes listing a breeze. With a competitive final value fee structure, sellers keep a good chunk of their sales, adding to its appeal. But it’s not just about the money; Poshmark’s community-centric approach fosters a supportive environment where sellers can connect, share tips, and even make friends. This blend of business and social interaction sets Poshmark apart in the crowded online resale space. Top Resale Sites Like Poshmark Dive into the world of online resale with these 25 platforms, each offering unique opportunities to sell everything from vintage finds to luxury goods. eBay eBay is a vast marketplace that caters to a wide range of categories, from fashion to electronics. It’s known for its auction-style listings along with the “Buy It Now” option, giving sellers flexibility in how they sell. eBay’s global reach offers a massive audience but comes with a competitive landscape. Sellers benefit from eBay’s detailed seller protections and a comprehensive shipping and logistics support system. Depop Depop focuses on the unique, vintage, and trendy, appealing to a younger demographic that values individuality. This mobile-centric platform combines the selling experience with social media elements, allowing users to follow each other, like items, and share listings. Depop charges a 10% fee on items sold, including shipping costs, making it a cost-effective option for casual sellers and vintage enthusiasts. Vinted Vinted specializes in secondhand clothing, offering a platform for users to sell, buy, or swap items. It’s unique in that it doesn’t charge sellers a fee, instead charging buyers a small service fee. This model encourages a bustling marketplace of affordable items, with a community-focused environment that includes forums for advice and tips. Mercari Mercari is a user-friendly app that simplifies the selling process for a variety of items, not just clothing. With no listing fees and a flat 10% selling fee, Mercari makes it easy for anyone to start selling. Its “ship it or drop it off” option provides flexibility for sellers, and the platform is known for its strong customer service support. ThredUP ThredUP takes a different approach as an online consignment and thrift store. Sellers send in their clothing, and ThredUP takes care of the rest, from photography to listing. While it offers convenience and a wide audience, sellers trade some control and potential earnings for ease of use. ThredUP is best for those looking to declutter without the hassle of managing their sales. The RealReal The RealReal is an online luxury consignment store focusing on high-end brands and goods. It offers a comprehensive authentication process, ensuring that all items are genuine. The site takes a higher commission than some other platforms, but in return, it provides a professional photography service and a vast audience looking specifically for luxury items. This platform is ideal for sellers of high-end clothing, accessories, and home goods. OfferUp OfferUp is a mobile-first marketplace where local buying and selling are made easy. Unlike many other platforms, OfferUp is great for selling items beyond clothing, including furniture and electronics. Its user-friendly interface encourages quick sales locally, though it also offers shipping options for a broader reach. With no listing fees and competitive seller fees, OfferUp is a versatile option for various sellers. Grailed Grailed is a community-driven marketplace catering exclusively to men’s fashion, focusing on streetwear, designer, and vintage pieces. It distinguishes itself with a curated selection and an engaged community of fashion enthusiasts. Grailed charges a commission fee for sold items, but its niche focus allows sellers to reach a dedicated audience willing to pay for premium items. ASOS Marketplace ASOS Marketplace offers a unique platform for independent brands and vintage boutiques to reach a global audience. Launched by the fashion retail giant ASOS, this site is perfect for sellers with unique collections looking to tap into a younger fashion-forward market. It requires sellers to have a boutique, making it different from peer-to-peer platforms, and charges a commission on sales. Facebook Marketplace Facebook Marketplace leverages the social media giant’s network to facilitate buying and selling items locally. With no fees for listing or selling, it’s an attractive option for sellers of all kinds, including those with clothing. The platform’s integration with Facebook profiles adds a layer of transparency and trust to transactions, making it easy for sellers to reach their local community or even wider audiences through shipping options. Etsy Etsy is renowned for focusing on handmade, vintage, and unique items, including clothing. It’s the go-to platform for sellers looking to reach an audience that values craftsmanship and sustainability. Etsy features a marketplace tailored for independent sellers, providing a personal touch to the selling experience. However, sellers should keep in mind that Etsy imposes listing fees and a commission on sales. Rebag Rebag specializes in luxury bags, offering a streamlined process for sellers to cash in on high-end handbags and accessories. With a focus on authenticity and quality, Rebag provides an upfront quote for items, making it easy for sellers to understand their potential earnings. This platform is ideal for those with a collection of designer bags looking for a hassle-free selling experience. StockX StockX is a unique platform that operates more like a stock market for sneakers and streetwear, focusing on transparency and authenticity. Sellers can list items or sell directly at the current market price, and StockX authenticates all items before they are sent to the buyer. This model appeals to sellers and buyers in the sneaker community who are looking for a secure way to buy and sell. Vestiaire Collective Vestiaire Collective is a global platform for pre-owned luxury and designer fashion. With a rigorous authentication process, it ensures all items are genuine, providing confidence to both buyers and sellers. Sellers can list items for free, but the platform takes a commission on sales, which varies depending on the item’s price. It’s a great option for those looking to sell high-end clothing and accessories. GOAT GOAT is a leading platform for buying and selling sneakers, along with apparel and accessories. It offers a robust authentication process and a vast audience of sneaker enthusiasts. While it focuses primarily on sneakers, its expansion into streetwear and other categories provides additional avenues for sellers. GOAT charges a commission and shipping fees, which are considerations for sellers looking to maximize their returns. Kidizen Kidizen is a dedicated marketplace for parents to buy and sell children’s clothing, toys, and accessories. It offers a community-driven platform that makes it easy for families to find affordable, quality items for their growing kids. Kidizen’s user-friendly app enhances the shopping and selling experience, making it a favorite among parents looking for a sustainable way to manage their children’s wardrobes. Curtsy Curtsy targets a younger demographic, focusing on trendy, gently used clothing and accessories. It simplifies the selling process with a mobile app that allows users to quickly list items by taking a few photos. Curtsy appeals to college students and young professionals looking for an easy way to refresh their wardrobe without breaking the bank, charging a lower fee than many traditional consignment shops. WatchBox WatchBox specializes in buying, selling, and trading pre-owned luxury watches. Offering an expertly curated inventory and personalized client services, it stands out for enthusiasts and collectors seeking investment-grade timepieces. The platform provides a trustworthy environment for transactions, supported by authentication and valuation from watch experts, making it a premier destination for high-end watch sales. 1stdibs 1stdibs is an upscale marketplace that caters to antique, vintage, and luxury goods, including fashion. It’s known for its selection of high-end items from around the world, offering a platform for sellers of unique and rare pieces. With its focus on quality and exclusivity, 1stdibs attracts a discerning clientele willing to invest in timeless style, though sellers should note the platform’s commission and listing fees. Luxury Garage Sale Luxury Garage Sale offers a boutique consignment experience specializing in luxury clothing, handbags, and accessories. With both online and physical presence, it provides a personalized service for sellers looking to declutter their high-end items. The platform stands out for its white-glove service, including professional photography and pricing advice, making it a hassle-free option for sellers aiming for the luxury market. What Goes Around Comes Around What Goes Around Comes Around is renowned for its exceptional collection of vintage and luxury fashion. This platform is ideal for sellers with rare and high-end vintage items, offering an upscale consignment experience. Its reputation for authenticity and quality attracts a clientele looking for investment pieces, ensuring items have the best chance of selling at top dollar. Chairish Chairish is a favorite for sellers of vintage clothing and decor, providing a curated marketplace for unique home goods and fashion. It stands out for its commitment to quality and design, appealing to buyers with a discerning eye. Sellers on Chairish enjoy a platform that values the story behind each piece, with a straightforward listing process and competitive commission rates. VarageSale VarageSale provides a community-oriented platform for local buying and selling. It resembles a virtual garage sale, allowing users to sell a wide range of items, including clothes and furniture, to people in their community. The platform emphasizes safety and trust, with all members verified through Facebook, making it a comfortable space for transactions. VarageSale is perfect for sellers looking to avoid shipping hassles by dealing locally. LePrix LePrix is a luxury consignment online marketplace that brings together the best boutiques from around the world. Specializing in authenticated, pre-owned luxury goods, it offers sellers a vast audience of luxury shoppers. LePrix’s strength lies in its rigorous authentication process and partnership with professional consignment shops, ensuring items reach buyers who appreciate luxury and quality. Fashionphile Fashionphile focuses exclusively on luxury accessories, making it the go-to platform for selling high-end handbags, jewelry, and accessories. Known for its expertise in authentication and valuation, Fashionphile offers sellers a straightforward way to monetize their luxury items. With competitive consignment rates and a strong online presence, it’s a top choice for those looking to sell designer accessories. PlatformFocusSelling FeesUnique Features eBayWide range including fashion to electronicsVariesGlobal reach, auction-style listings DepopUnique, vintage, trendy fashion10% on items sold, including shippingSocial media elements like following and sharing VintedSecondhand clothingNo seller fee, buyers pay a service feeCommunity-focused, option to swap items MercariVariety of items, not just clothingNo listing fees, flat 10% selling feeUser-friendly, flexible shipping options ThredUPOnline consignment and thrift storeConsign with ThredUP, fees varyTakes care of photography to listing The RealRealLuxury consignment storeHigher commission for professional servicesComprehensive authentication process OfferUpLocal buying and selling of a wide rangeNo listing fees, competitive seller feesUser-friendly interface for quick local sales GrailedMen's fashion, especially streetwear and designerCommission feeCurated selection, engaged fashion community ASOS MarketplaceIndependent brands and vintage boutiquesCommission on salesTargets a younger, fashion-forward market Facebook MarketplaceLocal buying and selling, wide rangeNo fees for listing or sellingIntegration with Facebook profiles EtsyHandmade, vintage, unique itemsListing fees and a commission on salesMarketplace for independent sellers RebagLuxury bagsQuote provided, consignment rates applyStreamlined process for luxury bags StockXSneakers and streetwearMarket price, authentication feeStock market model for transparent pricing Vestiaire CollectivePre-owned luxury and designer fashionCommission on sales, varies by item priceGlobal platform, rigorous authentication GOATSneakers, apparel, accessoriesCommission and shipping feesFocus on authenticity in sneaker community KidizenChildren's clothing, toys, accessoriesUser-friendly app, fees not specifiedCommunity-driven, family-friendly platform CurtsyTrendy, gently used clothingLower fee than traditional consignment shopsTargets younger demographic, easy listing process WatchBoxPre-owned luxury watchesAuthentication and valuation, fees not specifiedExpert curation, personalized client services 1stdibsAntique, vintage, and luxury goodsCommission and listing feesHigh-end items from around the world Luxury Garage SaleLuxury clothing, handbags, accessoriesBoutique consignment ratesWhite-glove service for luxury market What Goes Around Comes AroundVintage and luxury fashionUpscale consignment experience, fees not specifiedExceptional collection of vintage luxury ChairishVintage clothing and decorCompetitive commission ratesCommitment to quality and design VarageSaleLocal community-focused buying and sellingNo fees, local community focusVirtual garage sale with verified members LePrixAuthenticated, pre-owned luxury goodsRigorous authentication, partnership with boutiquesBrings together top boutiques worldwide FashionphileLuxury accessoriesConsignment rates for luxury accessoriesExpertise in luxury accessories The Benefits of Using Resale Sites and Apps Like Poshmark Selling on resale apps like Poshmark provides numerous advantages for individuals looking to declutter their closets or establish a side hustle. Learning how to sell on Poshmark is simple, and there are numerous platforms that offer similar experiences. Here’s an expanded view of the benefits: Access to a Broad Customer Base: Sites like Poshmark boast millions of users, giving sellers immediate access to a large and varied audience. This extensive reach makes it easier to connect with potential buyers who are interested in your specific items. Variety of Fee Structures: Resale platforms offer different fee models, including listing fees, final value fees, and commission rates. This variety allows sellers to choose a platform that aligns with their financial objectives, maximizing their earnings. Ease of Use: These platforms are designed with user-friendly interfaces, making it straightforward to list items, manage sales, and communicate with buyers. The simplicity of the process makes it accessible even for those new to online selling. Flexible Selling Options: Sellers have the freedom to determine their prices, provide discounts, and negotiate with buyers. This flexibility allows them to price items competitively and finalize transactions more effectively. Built-in Customer Base: Unlike starting an independent online store, resale apps come with an existing customer base, reducing the need for extensive marketing efforts to attract buyers. Environmental Impact: Selling on resale platforms promotes sustainability by giving items a second life, reducing waste, and encouraging a more circular economy. Social Features: Many resale platforms incorporate social features, such as liking, sharing, and following, which can increase the visibility of your listings and foster a community among users. Safety and Security: Resale apps typically offer secure payment processing and protection policies for both buyers and sellers, ensuring transactions are safe and reliable. Support and Resources: Most platforms provide comprehensive support and resources, including seller guides, customer service, and community forums, to assist sellers in maximizing their sales and navigating any challenges. Personal Branding: For those looking to build a presence or brand in the resale market, these platforms offer an opportunity to curate a selection of items, develop a selling style, and engage with followers. By leveraging these benefits, sellers can effectively utilize resale apps to clear out their closets, reach targeted buyers, and achieve their financial goals, all while contributing to a more sustainable way of shopping. Where to Sell Clothing: Poshmark vs. Other Resale Sites Choosing the right online resale platform is key for sellers aiming to maximize their earnings and reach. This comparison delves into essential aspects like fees, user experience, audience reach, listing ease, shipping policies, and community support, guiding you to make an informed decision. Differences in Payment Processing Fee Poshmark simplifies things with a flat 20% fee for sales over $15, contrasting with sites like eBay and Mercari that have variable fees based on categories and seller volumes. Unlike Poshmark, some platforms also impose a listing fee, affecting the overall cost of selling. User Experience on Different Platforms While Poshmark features a user-friendly, social-centric interface that enhances engagement, it may not offer the advanced tools found on platforms like eBay or Etsy, which provide a broader range of selling experiences. Navigation and listing processes vary widely, with some platforms offering more streamlined, seller-friendly interfaces than others. Audience Reach of Apps Like Poshmark Poshmark’s audience is fashion-focused, offering a niche market with a potentially higher selling price for trendy items. In contrast, eBay and Facebook Marketplace attract a broader audience, which might reduce individual item visibility but increase the potential buyer pool. Ease of Listing Items Listing on Poshmark is straightforward, requiring just a few steps to post an item. Other sites, like eBay, offer more detailed listing options, which can be a boon for specific items but might require more effort to set up. Shipping Policies Across Platforms Poshmark simplifies shipping by providing prepaid labels, whereas platforms like eBay and Mercari allow for more shipping flexibility but require sellers to navigate more complex logistics and potentially higher costs. Community Engagement and Support Poshmark stands out for its strong community vibe, with features encouraging user interaction. Other sites might offer more traditional customer service and support options, focusing less on community building and more on the transactional aspects of buying and selling. Niche Platforms for Specialized Clothing Sales For those with a keen eye on vintage, streetwear, children’s, or designer clothing, niche platforms like The RealReal, Vestiaire Collective, and Kidizen offer tailored spaces. These sites cater specifically to enthusiasts and collectors, providing a curated audience appreciative of the unique value and history behind each piece. They stand as essential go-tos for sellers looking to connect with buyers who share a passion for specific fashion categories. The Role of Social Media in Resale: Highlighting Facebook Marketplace Facebook Marketplace has carved a niche in the online resale market as one of the best apps to sell stuff locally. Its integration with social media profiles adds a layer of trust and community, facilitating easier and more secure transactions. The platform’s wide reach and the ability to target local buyers make it a powerful tool for sellers looking to offload items quickly and efficiently without the hassle of shipping. Features to Look for in a Resale Site When exploring alternatives to Poshmark for buying and selling items, it’s essential to consider various features that contribute to a platform’s effectiveness and user satisfaction. Here’s an expanded list of features to look for: Large and Engaged User Base: A vibrant community with a high number of active users increases the likelihood of sales and offers a diverse range of products. An engaged community also fosters a supportive environment for both buyers and sellers. Ease of Use: The platform should be intuitive and user-friendly, allowing for easy navigation, product listing, and purchase processes. This includes a clean interface, straightforward search functionality, and simple transaction procedures. Robust Online Store Functionalities: Advanced features that support a variety of sales formats, such as auction, buy now, and best offer, can cater to different selling and buying preferences. Integration with payment systems that offer secure transactions is also crucial. Efficient Listing Process: The ability to quickly and easily list items for sale, including batch uploads, template listings, and auto-fill features for product details, can save sellers time and effort. Comprehensive Sales Management Tools: Tools that help sellers track their inventory, orders, and shipping processes in one place can streamline operations and improve efficiency. Detailed Analytics: Access to data on sales performance, customer demographics, and product popularity can help sellers make informed decisions about pricing, inventory, and marketing strategies. Marketing Tools: Features such as promotional listings, featured products, and the ability to share listings on social media platforms can enhance visibility and attract more buyers. Customer Support and Community Engagement: Responsive customer service for both buyers and sellers, along with forums or groups that encourage interaction and feedback, can enhance the overall platform experience. Mobile Compatibility: A platform that is mobile-friendly or has a dedicated app allows users to easily access the site, manage their accounts, and carry out transactions from their smartphones. Secure Payment Options: Multiple, secure payment methods provide flexibility and peace of mind for users, facilitating smoother transactions. Transparent Fees and Policies: Clear information on any fees charged for listings, transactions, or additional services helps sellers understand their potential costs upfront. Considering these features when evaluating resale platforms can help sellers choose the best venue for their needs, ensuring a positive experience and maximizing their success in the online marketplace. https://youtube.com/watch?v=9Jp9y_gK0jU%3Fsi%3DV6NOA5F9_hv93WNc FAQs: Sites Like Poshmark What is the best online resale site to sell jewelry? Etsy stands out as the best platform for selling jewelry, especially unique, handmade, or vintage pieces. Its niche market appreciates the craftsmanship and history behind each item, making it a favorite among jewelry sellers. What is the best platform to sell secondhand clothes? If you’re looking into how to start a reselling business, finding the right platform for your needs is essential. Depop and Poshmark are top contenders for selling secondhand unwanted clothes, catering to a younger, fashion-forward audience. Both platforms offer an engaging, social media-like experience, making them ideal for trendy and vintage clothing sales. How do payment processing fees vary across different resale sites? Payment processing fees vary widely. Poshmark charges a flat 20% on sales over $15, while eBay’s fees depend on the item category and seller’s performance. Other sites may have lower fees but charge for listings or additional services. Which platforms are ideal for selling specific types of clothing? For designer clothes, The RealReal and Vestiaire Collective are perfect, offering a luxury-focused audience. Etsy is ideal for vintage finds, while Kidizen is the go-to for children’s clothing, each providing a specialized market for these categories. Image: Envato Elements This article, "Resale Sites like Poshmark to Elevate Your Business Game" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Poshmark has revolutionized the way we buy and sell clothes online, making it easier and more accessible than ever. As a standout platform, it’s sparked a new era in the online resale shopping landscape, offering both buyers and sellers a dynamic marketplace. However, the online landscape is expansive, and for individuals aiming to broaden their business or personal selling opportunities, there are additional resale sites ready to be discovered. From vintage gems on Etsy to high-end items on The RealReal, this guide serves as your gateway to enhancing your online selling experience. Why Poshmark Has Become a Favorite for Selling Clothes Poshmark shines as a go-to for those learning how to sell clothes online, thanks to its user-friendly platform that makes listing a breeze. With a competitive final value fee structure, sellers keep a good chunk of their sales, adding to its appeal. But it’s not just about the money; Poshmark’s community-centric approach fosters a supportive environment where sellers can connect, share tips, and even make friends. This blend of business and social interaction sets Poshmark apart in the crowded online resale space. Top Resale Sites Like Poshmark Dive into the world of online resale with these 25 platforms, each offering unique opportunities to sell everything from vintage finds to luxury goods. eBay eBay is a vast marketplace that caters to a wide range of categories, from fashion to electronics. It’s known for its auction-style listings along with the “Buy It Now” option, giving sellers flexibility in how they sell. eBay’s global reach offers a massive audience but comes with a competitive landscape. Sellers benefit from eBay’s detailed seller protections and a comprehensive shipping and logistics support system. Depop Depop focuses on the unique, vintage, and trendy, appealing to a younger demographic that values individuality. This mobile-centric platform combines the selling experience with social media elements, allowing users to follow each other, like items, and share listings. Depop charges a 10% fee on items sold, including shipping costs, making it a cost-effective option for casual sellers and vintage enthusiasts. Vinted Vinted specializes in secondhand clothing, offering a platform for users to sell, buy, or swap items. It’s unique in that it doesn’t charge sellers a fee, instead charging buyers a small service fee. This model encourages a bustling marketplace of affordable items, with a community-focused environment that includes forums for advice and tips. Mercari Mercari is a user-friendly app that simplifies the selling process for a variety of items, not just clothing. With no listing fees and a flat 10% selling fee, Mercari makes it easy for anyone to start selling. Its “ship it or drop it off” option provides flexibility for sellers, and the platform is known for its strong customer service support. ThredUP ThredUP takes a different approach as an online consignment and thrift store. Sellers send in their clothing, and ThredUP takes care of the rest, from photography to listing. While it offers convenience and a wide audience, sellers trade some control and potential earnings for ease of use. ThredUP is best for those looking to declutter without the hassle of managing their sales. The RealReal The RealReal is an online luxury consignment store focusing on high-end brands and goods. It offers a comprehensive authentication process, ensuring that all items are genuine. The site takes a higher commission than some other platforms, but in return, it provides a professional photography service and a vast audience looking specifically for luxury items. This platform is ideal for sellers of high-end clothing, accessories, and home goods. OfferUp OfferUp is a mobile-first marketplace where local buying and selling are made easy. Unlike many other platforms, OfferUp is great for selling items beyond clothing, including furniture and electronics. Its user-friendly interface encourages quick sales locally, though it also offers shipping options for a broader reach. With no listing fees and competitive seller fees, OfferUp is a versatile option for various sellers. Grailed Grailed is a community-driven marketplace catering exclusively to men’s fashion, focusing on streetwear, designer, and vintage pieces. It distinguishes itself with a curated selection and an engaged community of fashion enthusiasts. Grailed charges a commission fee for sold items, but its niche focus allows sellers to reach a dedicated audience willing to pay for premium items. ASOS Marketplace ASOS Marketplace offers a unique platform for independent brands and vintage boutiques to reach a global audience. Launched by the fashion retail giant ASOS, this site is perfect for sellers with unique collections looking to tap into a younger fashion-forward market. It requires sellers to have a boutique, making it different from peer-to-peer platforms, and charges a commission on sales. Facebook Marketplace Facebook Marketplace leverages the social media giant’s network to facilitate buying and selling items locally. With no fees for listing or selling, it’s an attractive option for sellers of all kinds, including those with clothing. The platform’s integration with Facebook profiles adds a layer of transparency and trust to transactions, making it easy for sellers to reach their local community or even wider audiences through shipping options. Etsy Etsy is renowned for focusing on handmade, vintage, and unique items, including clothing. It’s the go-to platform for sellers looking to reach an audience that values craftsmanship and sustainability. Etsy features a marketplace tailored for independent sellers, providing a personal touch to the selling experience. However, sellers should keep in mind that Etsy imposes listing fees and a commission on sales. Rebag Rebag specializes in luxury bags, offering a streamlined process for sellers to cash in on high-end handbags and accessories. With a focus on authenticity and quality, Rebag provides an upfront quote for items, making it easy for sellers to understand their potential earnings. This platform is ideal for those with a collection of designer bags looking for a hassle-free selling experience. StockX StockX is a unique platform that operates more like a stock market for sneakers and streetwear, focusing on transparency and authenticity. Sellers can list items or sell directly at the current market price, and StockX authenticates all items before they are sent to the buyer. This model appeals to sellers and buyers in the sneaker community who are looking for a secure way to buy and sell. Vestiaire Collective Vestiaire Collective is a global platform for pre-owned luxury and designer fashion. With a rigorous authentication process, it ensures all items are genuine, providing confidence to both buyers and sellers. Sellers can list items for free, but the platform takes a commission on sales, which varies depending on the item’s price. It’s a great option for those looking to sell high-end clothing and accessories. GOAT GOAT is a leading platform for buying and selling sneakers, along with apparel and accessories. It offers a robust authentication process and a vast audience of sneaker enthusiasts. While it focuses primarily on sneakers, its expansion into streetwear and other categories provides additional avenues for sellers. GOAT charges a commission and shipping fees, which are considerations for sellers looking to maximize their returns. Kidizen Kidizen is a dedicated marketplace for parents to buy and sell children’s clothing, toys, and accessories. It offers a community-driven platform that makes it easy for families to find affordable, quality items for their growing kids. Kidizen’s user-friendly app enhances the shopping and selling experience, making it a favorite among parents looking for a sustainable way to manage their children’s wardrobes. Curtsy Curtsy targets a younger demographic, focusing on trendy, gently used clothing and accessories. It simplifies the selling process with a mobile app that allows users to quickly list items by taking a few photos. Curtsy appeals to college students and young professionals looking for an easy way to refresh their wardrobe without breaking the bank, charging a lower fee than many traditional consignment shops. WatchBox WatchBox specializes in buying, selling, and trading pre-owned luxury watches. Offering an expertly curated inventory and personalized client services, it stands out for enthusiasts and collectors seeking investment-grade timepieces. The platform provides a trustworthy environment for transactions, supported by authentication and valuation from watch experts, making it a premier destination for high-end watch sales. 1stdibs 1stdibs is an upscale marketplace that caters to antique, vintage, and luxury goods, including fashion. It’s known for its selection of high-end items from around the world, offering a platform for sellers of unique and rare pieces. With its focus on quality and exclusivity, 1stdibs attracts a discerning clientele willing to invest in timeless style, though sellers should note the platform’s commission and listing fees. Luxury Garage Sale Luxury Garage Sale offers a boutique consignment experience specializing in luxury clothing, handbags, and accessories. With both online and physical presence, it provides a personalized service for sellers looking to declutter their high-end items. The platform stands out for its white-glove service, including professional photography and pricing advice, making it a hassle-free option for sellers aiming for the luxury market. What Goes Around Comes Around What Goes Around Comes Around is renowned for its exceptional collection of vintage and luxury fashion. This platform is ideal for sellers with rare and high-end vintage items, offering an upscale consignment experience. Its reputation for authenticity and quality attracts a clientele looking for investment pieces, ensuring items have the best chance of selling at top dollar. Chairish Chairish is a favorite for sellers of vintage clothing and decor, providing a curated marketplace for unique home goods and fashion. It stands out for its commitment to quality and design, appealing to buyers with a discerning eye. Sellers on Chairish enjoy a platform that values the story behind each piece, with a straightforward listing process and competitive commission rates. VarageSale VarageSale provides a community-oriented platform for local buying and selling. It resembles a virtual garage sale, allowing users to sell a wide range of items, including clothes and furniture, to people in their community. The platform emphasizes safety and trust, with all members verified through Facebook, making it a comfortable space for transactions. VarageSale is perfect for sellers looking to avoid shipping hassles by dealing locally. LePrix LePrix is a luxury consignment online marketplace that brings together the best boutiques from around the world. Specializing in authenticated, pre-owned luxury goods, it offers sellers a vast audience of luxury shoppers. LePrix’s strength lies in its rigorous authentication process and partnership with professional consignment shops, ensuring items reach buyers who appreciate luxury and quality. Fashionphile Fashionphile focuses exclusively on luxury accessories, making it the go-to platform for selling high-end handbags, jewelry, and accessories. Known for its expertise in authentication and valuation, Fashionphile offers sellers a straightforward way to monetize their luxury items. With competitive consignment rates and a strong online presence, it’s a top choice for those looking to sell designer accessories. PlatformFocusSelling FeesUnique Features eBayWide range including fashion to electronicsVariesGlobal reach, auction-style listings DepopUnique, vintage, trendy fashion10% on items sold, including shippingSocial media elements like following and sharing VintedSecondhand clothingNo seller fee, buyers pay a service feeCommunity-focused, option to swap items MercariVariety of items, not just clothingNo listing fees, flat 10% selling feeUser-friendly, flexible shipping options ThredUPOnline consignment and thrift storeConsign with ThredUP, fees varyTakes care of photography to listing The RealRealLuxury consignment storeHigher commission for professional servicesComprehensive authentication process OfferUpLocal buying and selling of a wide rangeNo listing fees, competitive seller feesUser-friendly interface for quick local sales GrailedMen's fashion, especially streetwear and designerCommission feeCurated selection, engaged fashion community ASOS MarketplaceIndependent brands and vintage boutiquesCommission on salesTargets a younger, fashion-forward market Facebook MarketplaceLocal buying and selling, wide rangeNo fees for listing or sellingIntegration with Facebook profiles EtsyHandmade, vintage, unique itemsListing fees and a commission on salesMarketplace for independent sellers RebagLuxury bagsQuote provided, consignment rates applyStreamlined process for luxury bags StockXSneakers and streetwearMarket price, authentication feeStock market model for transparent pricing Vestiaire CollectivePre-owned luxury and designer fashionCommission on sales, varies by item priceGlobal platform, rigorous authentication GOATSneakers, apparel, accessoriesCommission and shipping feesFocus on authenticity in sneaker community KidizenChildren's clothing, toys, accessoriesUser-friendly app, fees not specifiedCommunity-driven, family-friendly platform CurtsyTrendy, gently used clothingLower fee than traditional consignment shopsTargets younger demographic, easy listing process WatchBoxPre-owned luxury watchesAuthentication and valuation, fees not specifiedExpert curation, personalized client services 1stdibsAntique, vintage, and luxury goodsCommission and listing feesHigh-end items from around the world Luxury Garage SaleLuxury clothing, handbags, accessoriesBoutique consignment ratesWhite-glove service for luxury market What Goes Around Comes AroundVintage and luxury fashionUpscale consignment experience, fees not specifiedExceptional collection of vintage luxury ChairishVintage clothing and decorCompetitive commission ratesCommitment to quality and design VarageSaleLocal community-focused buying and sellingNo fees, local community focusVirtual garage sale with verified members LePrixAuthenticated, pre-owned luxury goodsRigorous authentication, partnership with boutiquesBrings together top boutiques worldwide FashionphileLuxury accessoriesConsignment rates for luxury accessoriesExpertise in luxury accessories The Benefits of Using Resale Sites and Apps Like Poshmark Selling on resale apps like Poshmark provides numerous advantages for individuals looking to declutter their closets or establish a side hustle. Learning how to sell on Poshmark is simple, and there are numerous platforms that offer similar experiences. Here’s an expanded view of the benefits: Access to a Broad Customer Base: Sites like Poshmark boast millions of users, giving sellers immediate access to a large and varied audience. This extensive reach makes it easier to connect with potential buyers who are interested in your specific items. Variety of Fee Structures: Resale platforms offer different fee models, including listing fees, final value fees, and commission rates. This variety allows sellers to choose a platform that aligns with their financial objectives, maximizing their earnings. Ease of Use: These platforms are designed with user-friendly interfaces, making it straightforward to list items, manage sales, and communicate with buyers. The simplicity of the process makes it accessible even for those new to online selling. Flexible Selling Options: Sellers have the freedom to determine their prices, provide discounts, and negotiate with buyers. This flexibility allows them to price items competitively and finalize transactions more effectively. Built-in Customer Base: Unlike starting an independent online store, resale apps come with an existing customer base, reducing the need for extensive marketing efforts to attract buyers. Environmental Impact: Selling on resale platforms promotes sustainability by giving items a second life, reducing waste, and encouraging a more circular economy. Social Features: Many resale platforms incorporate social features, such as liking, sharing, and following, which can increase the visibility of your listings and foster a community among users. Safety and Security: Resale apps typically offer secure payment processing and protection policies for both buyers and sellers, ensuring transactions are safe and reliable. Support and Resources: Most platforms provide comprehensive support and resources, including seller guides, customer service, and community forums, to assist sellers in maximizing their sales and navigating any challenges. Personal Branding: For those looking to build a presence or brand in the resale market, these platforms offer an opportunity to curate a selection of items, develop a selling style, and engage with followers. By leveraging these benefits, sellers can effectively utilize resale apps to clear out their closets, reach targeted buyers, and achieve their financial goals, all while contributing to a more sustainable way of shopping. Where to Sell Clothing: Poshmark vs. Other Resale Sites Choosing the right online resale platform is key for sellers aiming to maximize their earnings and reach. This comparison delves into essential aspects like fees, user experience, audience reach, listing ease, shipping policies, and community support, guiding you to make an informed decision. Differences in Payment Processing Fee Poshmark simplifies things with a flat 20% fee for sales over $15, contrasting with sites like eBay and Mercari that have variable fees based on categories and seller volumes. Unlike Poshmark, some platforms also impose a listing fee, affecting the overall cost of selling. User Experience on Different Platforms While Poshmark features a user-friendly, social-centric interface that enhances engagement, it may not offer the advanced tools found on platforms like eBay or Etsy, which provide a broader range of selling experiences. Navigation and listing processes vary widely, with some platforms offering more streamlined, seller-friendly interfaces than others. Audience Reach of Apps Like Poshmark Poshmark’s audience is fashion-focused, offering a niche market with a potentially higher selling price for trendy items. In contrast, eBay and Facebook Marketplace attract a broader audience, which might reduce individual item visibility but increase the potential buyer pool. Ease of Listing Items Listing on Poshmark is straightforward, requiring just a few steps to post an item. Other sites, like eBay, offer more detailed listing options, which can be a boon for specific items but might require more effort to set up. Shipping Policies Across Platforms Poshmark simplifies shipping by providing prepaid labels, whereas platforms like eBay and Mercari allow for more shipping flexibility but require sellers to navigate more complex logistics and potentially higher costs. Community Engagement and Support Poshmark stands out for its strong community vibe, with features encouraging user interaction. Other sites might offer more traditional customer service and support options, focusing less on community building and more on the transactional aspects of buying and selling. Niche Platforms for Specialized Clothing Sales For those with a keen eye on vintage, streetwear, children’s, or designer clothing, niche platforms like The RealReal, Vestiaire Collective, and Kidizen offer tailored spaces. These sites cater specifically to enthusiasts and collectors, providing a curated audience appreciative of the unique value and history behind each piece. They stand as essential go-tos for sellers looking to connect with buyers who share a passion for specific fashion categories. The Role of Social Media in Resale: Highlighting Facebook Marketplace Facebook Marketplace has carved a niche in the online resale market as one of the best apps to sell stuff locally. Its integration with social media profiles adds a layer of trust and community, facilitating easier and more secure transactions. The platform’s wide reach and the ability to target local buyers make it a powerful tool for sellers looking to offload items quickly and efficiently without the hassle of shipping. Features to Look for in a Resale Site When exploring alternatives to Poshmark for buying and selling items, it’s essential to consider various features that contribute to a platform’s effectiveness and user satisfaction. Here’s an expanded list of features to look for: Large and Engaged User Base: A vibrant community with a high number of active users increases the likelihood of sales and offers a diverse range of products. An engaged community also fosters a supportive environment for both buyers and sellers. Ease of Use: The platform should be intuitive and user-friendly, allowing for easy navigation, product listing, and purchase processes. This includes a clean interface, straightforward search functionality, and simple transaction procedures. Robust Online Store Functionalities: Advanced features that support a variety of sales formats, such as auction, buy now, and best offer, can cater to different selling and buying preferences. Integration with payment systems that offer secure transactions is also crucial. Efficient Listing Process: The ability to quickly and easily list items for sale, including batch uploads, template listings, and auto-fill features for product details, can save sellers time and effort. Comprehensive Sales Management Tools: Tools that help sellers track their inventory, orders, and shipping processes in one place can streamline operations and improve efficiency. Detailed Analytics: Access to data on sales performance, customer demographics, and product popularity can help sellers make informed decisions about pricing, inventory, and marketing strategies. Marketing Tools: Features such as promotional listings, featured products, and the ability to share listings on social media platforms can enhance visibility and attract more buyers. Customer Support and Community Engagement: Responsive customer service for both buyers and sellers, along with forums or groups that encourage interaction and feedback, can enhance the overall platform experience. Mobile Compatibility: A platform that is mobile-friendly or has a dedicated app allows users to easily access the site, manage their accounts, and carry out transactions from their smartphones. Secure Payment Options: Multiple, secure payment methods provide flexibility and peace of mind for users, facilitating smoother transactions. Transparent Fees and Policies: Clear information on any fees charged for listings, transactions, or additional services helps sellers understand their potential costs upfront. Considering these features when evaluating resale platforms can help sellers choose the best venue for their needs, ensuring a positive experience and maximizing their success in the online marketplace. https://youtube.com/watch?v=9Jp9y_gK0jU%3Fsi%3DV6NOA5F9_hv93WNc FAQs: Sites Like Poshmark What is the best online resale site to sell jewelry? Etsy stands out as the best platform for selling jewelry, especially unique, handmade, or vintage pieces. Its niche market appreciates the craftsmanship and history behind each item, making it a favorite among jewelry sellers. What is the best platform to sell secondhand clothes? If you’re looking into how to start a reselling business, finding the right platform for your needs is essential. Depop and Poshmark are top contenders for selling secondhand unwanted clothes, catering to a younger, fashion-forward audience. Both platforms offer an engaging, social media-like experience, making them ideal for trendy and vintage clothing sales. How do payment processing fees vary across different resale sites? Payment processing fees vary widely. Poshmark charges a flat 20% on sales over $15, while eBay’s fees depend on the item category and seller’s performance. Other sites may have lower fees but charge for listings or additional services. Which platforms are ideal for selling specific types of clothing? For designer clothes, The RealReal and Vestiaire Collective are perfect, offering a luxury-focused audience. Etsy is ideal for vintage finds, while Kidizen is the go-to for children’s clothing, each providing a specialized market for these categories. Image: Envato Elements This article, "Resale Sites like Poshmark to Elevate Your Business Game" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Susan Kare, designer of the original Apple icons, is back with a new 32-icon collection, one that you can buy in the form of silver or gold vermeil mechanical keys and pendants. Called Esc Keys, the new icons perfectly capture the everlasting magic of her 1-bit legendary past work, always mesmerizing in their extreme minimalism and at the same time as satisfying as triple-chocolate cake. Kare obviously had lots of fun creating them. Her new designs—from an alien head to a light bulb to love birds to puppies, plus a ‘Panic!’ key that we all really need right now—inspire the same joy she was gleaming with when I spoke to her from New York—where she was visiting for the Esc Keys’ U.S. launch (and to celebrate her participation in the group exhibition Pirouette: Turning Points in Design at MoMA). We spoke about this collection’s genesis and about the attraction and everlasting power of pixel art as a universal language. A code that has seemingly crossed generations, beyond the people who originally experienced it first hand, when her original digital creations saw the world for the first time in 1984, when Steve Jobs presented the Macintosh in San Francisco, California. “I sent the first photos of the Alien icon pendant to my own three sons and I remember they all immediately wrote back: ‘Sick!’” she says. “I took that as a good sign.” “There’s hidden meaning on each one” Kare tells me that she was asked to create the collection by Alastair Walker, the founder and creative director of Asprey Studio—the Mayfair, London, art gallery that sprang up about two years ago from Asprey, a designer, manufacturer and retailer of jewelry, silverware, and all things luxury founded in London in 1781 (“The former Queen always bought gifts there!” Kare tells me with her charming laughter). Walker says he thought Kare was the perfect person to design his idea of the “escape keys”: Meaningful symbols that would represent things people might want to do away from their keyboards, physical reminders of the joys of physical life. “There’s hidden meaning on each one,” Walker says, “and the whole idea is that they’re literally in front of you on the keyboard or on your chest. It’s a reminder not to be a keyboard warrior. So it’s kind of almost antithetical itself.” “It’s a little ironic, but it resonated with me and I loved the idea,” Kare says. Walker initially asked if she would be interested in designing roughly 10 icons that would be on keyboard keys or mechanical keyboards with universal attachments. The 10 designs quickly grew to a collection of 60 to 70 concepts. “She started doing some icons and then she showed me like a whole bunch of them,” Walker says. “And then we were like, ‘Oh, well, we can’t get rid of this one, you know. Or this one.’ So then we thought, you know what, just do them all.” He was fascinated by the process himself, he tells me. “She’s insanely methodical. You speak to her and she’s moving a pixel here and then she’s like, no, let’s move it there.” [Photo: Asprey Studio] Stop, observe, reflect The escape keys were a good metaphor of that process too, the idea to stop, observe, reflect, to slow life. There are so many options now, we get sucked into a vortex of choice that make things lose their true meaning and intention. And there’s so much meaning and intention in Kare’s designs. “It’s just so funny when there’s 50 layers of undo now. You forget how amazing it was just to iterate undo and back again”, Kare tells me. “Andy Hertzfeld [one of the core Apple employees who made the Macintosh] wrote an icon editor as soon as I got to Apple. I did some drawings on graph paper to take to my job interviews, but using that icon editor was amazing. It was so nice to get to do it on the machine.” In the end, Kare and Walker managed to curate the Esc Keys down to 32 final pieces, although additional icons will appear later for some charity events they have planned later in the year, Walker says. Each icon is a limited edition, from 30 to 120 pieces depending on the icon, with prices ranging from $650 to $2,000 depending on the type of object: You can buy the computer key in enameled silver for $650 or in gold vermeil (a 19th-century technique in which you apply a thicker layer of gold to sterling silver, resulting in a finish that is five-times thicker and more durable than gold plating) for $1,010. The necklace pendant in silver goes for $1,390 while the gold vermeil version is $2,020. “We carefully handcraft everything in the studio,” Walker says. “Things like the enameling is super sharp. You usually get blotches with enamel, but this is beautifully flushed, hand filed to get these sharp edges on the pixels.” Each icon is also paired with a digital counterpart on the blockchain. [Photo: Asprey Studio] She’s an icon But more than their material value, these icons carry something that to me is far more precious: Kare’s unique ability to distill complex ideas into minimal, universal symbols that speak directly to our emotions. There’s something intrinsically appealing about the minimalist expression of Kare’s 1-bit icons, a striking contrast to this age of high-definition graphics, photorealistic interfaces, and artificial intelligence. Her iconic imagery, which created the modern graphical computing language after it’s protoform was developed at Xerox PARC, is the progenitor of much graphic language we still see today. Her work has an endearing quality that made it ideal for the collection, Walker says. “It celebrates Susan. I’ve been looking at digital arts history in general and she’s the pioneer.” Indeed, Kare is the GOAT and everyone should say that more often. She should be recognized universally for her founding contribution to the modern era of both computing and design, and not just in those industries. What Kare does may look simple, but the way she distills and synthesizes reality into its purest form, the pure soul of everyday things and ideas in a 16 x 16 or 32 x 32 grid, is nothing but pure art. The pixel aesthetic she pioneered has transcended its technological origins to become something deeply emotional and universally understood, which is the key to these keys. Some may say that this is just nostalgia speaking, but it goes way beyond being a GenXer reminiscing about the golden years of computing and the Pirates of Silicon Valley. And it goes beyond the ‘faux nostalgia’ of the generations that grew up on touchscreens too. I suspect they crave these essential pixelated representations of reality, plastering their Tik Toks and playing retro games, not because they are artifacts of the past but because there is an intrinsic appeal in Kare’s work. Because the simplicity of things, the abstraction process, makes all of us put more of ourselves into those graphics. And that’s why I believe pixel art transcends generations and is universal. [Photo: Asprey Studio] The beauty of simple forms There’s science to back this up. Shaped by millions of years of life evolution, our brains love to fill in the blanks. And, in that process, we project our emotions into these visual objects, something that is extremely satisfying at a subconscious level. It’s like the original Lego minifig, where there was only one smile and two eyes. It didn’t matter it was smiling: I remember putting my emotions in those ‘blank’ faces. A minigif could be happy or it could be sad. It could be angry or in love because of the simplicity of it. It makes us put our brain and soul into it. It creates a connection. At this point in our conversation, Kate reminded me of American cartoonist Scott McCloud’s Understanding Comics. “He has a couple illustrations where he showed a few drawings, like a very detailed pen sketch of a person, and then less and less detail, getting down to just a circle with a slight smile and two eyes,” she says. McCloud’s said that, the less detail, the more universal and the more anybody can look at that and feel as if it represents them. “I always used to think that the pencil icon can look to anybody like a writing implement. If you draw a chrome pen with highlight and shininess, it becomes so specific that it’s not the writing implement you imagine”, she says. “Even though most people don’t work in 72 DPI anymore or monochrome, I hope in some of these escape keys there’s that beauty,” Kare says. Indeed, that’s exactly the beauty of all her work. A beauty that is endearing and, well, cute. “I’ve been accused of being someone who likes things that are cute,” she says. “And yes, I really do think that a tablespoon of cute is good.” But cute may be interpreted as something done on purpose, frivolous and superficial. There’s nothing superficial about her approach to synthesis, however. The cute factor is a side effect of that process and the process of our brain projecting our ideas and feelings into simple forms, which makes them instantly endearing and memorable. The objects in Esc Keys are a convergence of art, technology, and fine craftsmanship but, more importantly, they demonstrate in a physical and most definitive way how Kare’s visual language, born in the constraints of early computer displays, has evolved into something timeless. These aren’t just escape keys. They are escape pods into humanity’s core, in a time where so many people feel divorced from it. 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UK government wants to boost workplace preventive health measures to cut spending on hospital careView the full article

Improve your local business's visibility with schema. Learn how structured data can help search engines understand and showcase your website better. The post Local SEO Schema: A Complete Guide To Local Structured Data & Rich Results appeared first on Search Engine Journal. View the full article

Let's be reel real: no matter how well-thought-out your Instagram strategy is, you can never predict exactly how it’s going to perform. Your followers (and potential followers) are human, after all, and there is so much nuance in the way folks behave online. This is why I often advise aspiring Instagram creators and social media marketers to experiment. Try new things. Take risks. Don’t ignore those wild ideas. And, while this might not feel like much of a hurdle on platforms like TikTok, it’s a little easier said than done as an Instagrammer. The platform is a lot more focused on a curated, aesthetic feed than others. It’s also a place where followers are hard-won. Taking risks and trying new things might result in some unfollows, which is scary. How do you get around that? Well, Instagram has heard our collective anxiety and rolled out a pretty neat solution: Trial Reels. After playing around with this new feature for a few weeks my verdict is that they are really powerful — and super underrated. In this article, I’ll explain exactly how to use Instagram Trial Reels (I promise, it’s so much easier than you think), why you should if you’re looking to grow your following on Instagram, and give you some ideas for your own tests. What are Instagram Trial Reels?Think of trial reels as your content testing ground. The feature offers you a way to post a reel with a select group of non-followers, to see how they react to it. The reel won’t appear in your follower’s feeds, or on your Instagram profile. Instagram head Adam Mosseri has been talking about the trial reel loads in his own content and with good reason. "A great way to experiment is to use trial reels, which allow you to post a reel just to accounts that do not follow you,” he said in a video on reels tips. “And then you can decide if it does well if you want to upgrade it to your followers and to your profile.” He added in another video about posting frequency: “[Trial Reels] allow you to bypass the entire connected ranking system and just go straight to the unconnected recommendations, so you don't risk bothering people who followed you with too much content.” Connected ranking system = the algorithm that serves your content to your followers. Unconnected recommendations = the algorithms that serve your content to non-followers in the reels and explore feeds. It's kind of like having a focus group for your Instagram Reels — you get real-world feedback from Instagram users who don't follow you (yet). The best part: Your current followers won't see these experimental reels — unless you want them to. No more worrying about flooding their feeds or straying too far from what they expect from you. How do Instagram Trial Reels work?Trail reels are super straightforward, particularly if you regularly share Instagram Reels. Here’s how to create a trial reel: Create your reel as usualBefore hitting share, toggle on the 'Trial' optionShare and wait for the results After 24 hours, you'll get insights into how your trial reel is performing. Since the reel won’t be visible on your profile, you’ll need to head over to your profile > reels tab, and then tap on the ‘Drafts and trial reels’ card. From there, tap on the trial review and then ‘View reel insights.’ This will give you access to a dashboard that is very similar to the insights for regular reels. You’ll have metrics on: ViewsLikesCommentsSharesSavesAccounts reachedReplaysWatch timeAverage watch timeIf it's hitting all the right notes, you can share it with your followers from here, too. You can also set up automatic sharing. If Instagram sees your trial reel performing well within the first 72 hours, it can automatically share it with your followers. Two important things to keep in mind about Instagram Trial Reels: You'll need a professional account — that means switching to either a Creator or a Business Account — to access Trial Reels. Here’s everything you need to know about Instagram account types and how to switch.While your followers won't see trials in their main, reels or explore feed, they might spot them if someone shares them in DMs or an Instagram Story, or on pages featuring reels with the same audio/location/filter.⚡With Buffer’s notification posting, you can schedule your trial reels for specific times. Get everything ready to go in Buffer, get a notification when it’s time to publish, toggle Trial reel on, and you’re good to go! Try it for free →Why Instagram Trial Reels are worth tryingInstagram Trial Reels offer you a way to test all sorts of things — hooks, music, editing style, subject matter, frequency, you name it. And, since they’re only shown to non-followers, they can be an important tool in helping you figure out what is actually going to grow your account. The benefits of trial reels:Test new content ideas without risking your current followingGet feedback from fresh eyesExperiment with different niches or formatsAnswer very specific questions about your content (What song is the best for this reel? Should I include text or voiceovers? What time should I post?)Eliminate worry about posting too much for your current followers3 tips for using Instagram Trial ReelsAs I touched on above, I’ve been playing around with Instagram Trial Reels for a few weeks, and the experimentation has helped me make some informed decisions about my content plan moving forward. 1. Have a clear question you want an answer toThis is huge — I wouldn’t advise just sharing every reel as a trial reel first without really understanding what you’re testing. I made that mistake with my first trial reel — it was just a video that I had planned and edited in my usual style. I created the trial without really knowing what I wanted to experiment with. The content performed as expected, with a similar amount of reach and engagement to my regular reels, and — surprise, surprise — I didn’t learn anything. (With this in mind, I can see why some commenters on Adam Mosseri’s posts about trial reels label them as “pointless.”) To get value from trial reels, you need to get crystal clear on what you want to know. The most valuable test I ran in my experiment was the impact of using a voice-over vs. having an ASMR-style video with text overlays instead. (I know, it sounds super in the weeds, but bear with me here.) I often create vlog-style day-in-the-life videos. I love the ASMR sounds I capture in the background of my clips (and my preference would be to leave them as they are). But I had a sense that they weren’t interesting enough without the storytelling I could provide in a voiceover. I also thought it might be fun to experiment with the impact of trending audio. So I put this theory to the test, creating three versions of exactly the same video. They were identical down to the last hashtag, apart from the audio: Reel with a voiceoverReel ASMR background soundsReel with trending audioThe results were interesting! I had expected the voiceover to win by a landslide, but it didn’t. The clip featuring trending audio (#3) racked up the most views — 24% more views than the voiceover and 33% more than the ASMR (sob). However, it tied for average watch time with the voiceover, so my next test is to try a trending audio + voiceover combo. 2. Eliminate the variablesI know, I know. This advice is table stakes for any kind of experimentation (see, I was listening in 7th-grade science, Mr. Strydom!). But I thought this worth noting because there are so many little details you might forget to include if you’re testing similar versions of the same reel. For example, I forgot to include a location tag in one version of my A/B tests, which may have skewed the results. When I realized this, I had to delete the reel and run the test all over again. Some small details you might forget in your tests are: Caption (unless you’re testing the caption itself, make sure yours is identical)LocationHashtagsPolls and prompts3. Manage your expectations on resultsWhen Instagram announced the trial reels feature in a video on the @creators account, one comment stood out to me: “I tried once and it gave me like 75 views and 5 likes…” The commenter was frustrated — clearly, it’s not the kind of performance they were used to. The thing is, though, trial reel aren’t meant to be compared with regular reels. They should be compared with other trial reels. “Because it’s not going to your followers, you can’t compare it to a normal reel,” Mosseri said in a helpful clip about rials. It’s going to get less reach, almost always.” “So what you need to do is compare trial reels to other trails. Look at sends, look at likes, look at watch time. That will give you a sense, get you calibrated on how good that trial reel.” For example, my regular reels usually get between 1,500 and 5,000 views on Instagram. All my trial reels topped out at about 180 views (which, I’ll be honest is pretty horrifying when you’re used to a bit higher!). Still, there were clear patterns in how the reels performed compared to the others, particularly if you’re comparing different versions of the same reel. Also, as Mosseri pointed out, the obvious metrics like views and likes aren’t always the best measures of success. Average watch time is one that can be particularly interesting, especially if you’re testing things like hooks or editing style. Another note on managing expectations — do give your trial reels at least 24 hours, preferably more, to percolate. Even in Instagram’s tool tips, they stress this: “We’re finding non-followers who we think will be interested in your new content, so it might take more time to get views, likes, and shares than your other reels.” You really want to give your content a fair shot before you hit ‘Share to everyone’ or delete. So, if you’re testing sponsored or brand content with a hard deadline, bear this in mind. 10 Instagram Trial Reel ideasNot sure where to start with your Instagram Trial Reels? Here are some handy experiments you might want to consider running: What is the best time of day for me to post to reach new followers? Test the same reel shared at various times across different days (I’d suggest sharing them on different days, since there might be an overlap in the folks who see your reels, given trial reels need around 24 hours to find non-followers).What kind of hook will work best? Test the same video with different intros. I’d suggest testing options that you can categorize and replicate. For example, if you’re sharing a round-up of your favorite AI tools you could try:Getting straight to the point: “These are my top 5 AI tools.”Inspiring intrigue: “These AI tools are so good, they should be illegal.”Sharing value upfront: “These AI tools will save you hours every single day.”What visual hooks have an impact? This is one I have planned! If you’re talking to the camera, you could experiment with saying the same intro with different props or in different settings (the creator favorite of chatting while stirring iced coffee is a great example of a visual hook.)Does trending audio really matter for my niche? Create identical reels with different audio tracks — one with a sound currently on the trending audio list, and another with a non-trending audio you like.Which caption style works best? Test the same reel with different caption approaches: a story-style caption, a quick bullet-point list, or a question-based caption that encourages comments.What's the sweet spot for reel length? Take a longer piece of content and create different cuts — perhaps 15, 30, and 60 seconds — to find the ideal duration for your content type.Do on-screen captions impact retention? Test identical reels with different text approaches: no captions, minimal key phrases, or full subtitles.Which call-to-action style works best? Experiment with different CTAs at the end of your reel: direct ("Follow for more!"), value-based ("Save this for your next project"), or question-based ("What would you add to this list?").What editing style catches attention? Test the same content with different editing approaches: quick, snappy transitions versus smooth flowing cuts, or minimal editing versus heavily stylized effects.Does showing your face impact reach? If you typically do voiceovers, try testing the same content with and without face-to-camera segments to see what impact it has.P.S. If you use any of these ideas (or devise your own genius tests) I’d love to know what the results were! Pop a comment below, or find us @buffer across social platforms. Happy testing! View the full article

You may have heard about the “Feb 28 Economic Blackout,” a movement that’s gathered momentum on social media in recent weeks. If you’re wondering about what it is: The so-called economic blackout is a nationwide boycott set to take place on Friday, asking all Americans not to buy anything for 24 hours to combat skyrocketing prices across the nation and corporate greed. The protests are aimed at rising prices of just about everything, from housing and gas to food (best illustrated by the staggering cost of eggs, which now average $5.57 a dozen in the Midwest and $8.85 in California, according to commodities data from Expana). The soaring prices are the result of a combination of inflation, overall higher living costs, and our sluggish economy. Like with the recent Reddit-born “Not My President’s Day” protests against the Trump administration, the internet and social media are playing a major role in getting people to mobilize. In this case, the protests reflect the sentiment of many social media users who are frustrated that major corporations are making huge profits while slashing DEI efforts, as many Americans are increasingly struggling just to get by. That sentiment was furthered by a recent study that found “greedflation” caused more than half of last year’s inflation surge as corporate profits remain at all-time highs, according to Fortune. “Send a message to giant companies ripping us off,” posted one Bluesky user. “Don’t shop online, in big box stores. . . . Just one day will send a powerful message. Think they’ll miss our DEI dollars? Don’t spend. Then, let them know why.” Here’s what to know about the blackout. Who is behind the economic blackout? The boycott is being sponsored by grassroots organization The People’s Union USA. According to the organization, it’s aimed at restoring “fairness, economic justice and real systemic change” through “government accountability and corporate reform,” and is not affiliated with any particular political party. “For our entire lives, they have told us we have no choice . . . that we have to accept these insane prices, the corporate greed, the billionaire tax breaks, all while we struggle to just to get by,” founder John Schwarz, who is reportedly a 57-year-old dad originally from Queens, New York, wrote in an Instagram post. “February 28, the 24-hour economic blackout: no Amazon, no Walmart, no fast food, no gas, not a single unnecessary dollar spent . . . for one day, we are going to finally turn the tables.” When does the economic blackout begin? The boycott starts Thursday, February 27 at midnight, and runs through Friday, February 28 at midnight. What retail is included in the blackout? The People’s Union USA website recommends people “do not shop online, or in-store, No Amazon, No Walmart, No Best Buy.” It’s also asking people not to spend money on fast food, gas, or major retailers, or to use credit or debit cards for non-essential spending. For essential purchases like food, medicine, or emergency supplies, the organization’s website suggests buying it at a small local business rather than a major chain store. View the full article

Hanna Hickman worked as an attorney in the private sector for 15 years before making a deliberate pivot. Even though it meant taking a pay cut, she wanted to work for the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and help fight banks and other companies that were taking advantage of consumers. Her colleagues, from other lawyers to young software engineers who could have easily taken Big Tech jobs, had the same motivations. They’re “professionals who could be making and were making quite a bit more money in the private sector,” Hickman says. “But they chose to take their time and talent and bring it to the bureau and fight for consumers.” And now, nearly 200 of those CFPB employees have had their jobs terminated, Hickman included. The remaining employees have been placed on indefinite administrative leave. Since CFPB opened in 2011, the agency says its provided consumers with more than $21 billion in relief, from refunds to canceled debt. It capped credit-card late fees and bank-overdraft fees. It banned medical debt from credit reports. The agency’s budget is a tiny 100th of 1% of total federal spending. Nonetheless, earlier this month, more than 10% of its workforce were fired by the Trump administration while Elon Musk’s so-called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) rifled through the agency’s data. (It’s worth noting that Musk is trying to start a financial product that would likely be regulated by CFPB.) Congress created the agency after the mortgage crisis of 2008. One of the causes of the financial meltdown was the fact that no agency was focused on regulating consumer financial products and services, including mortgages; fraudulent marketing of mortgages helped lead to the collapse. “Different banking regulators had all these different pieces of authority, but it wasn’t centralized in one place,” says Hickman, who served as senior litigation counsel for CFPB’s enforcement division. “A big part of what contributed to the financial crisis is that the people who were regulating the soundness of banks didn’t have eyes on the consumer-facing conduct.” By pulling enforcement into one agency, Congress wanted to help prevent another financial crisis—and better protect consumers in general. The agency has done a wide range of work. In a case that wrapped up at the end of last year, for example, the agency started sending $1.8 billion in refund checks to more than four million consumers who had been harmed by “credit repair” companies that charged them hundreds of dollars but didn’t actually help repair their credit. In another case, the agency fined Citi for intentionally discriminating against Armenian Americans. CFPB also required TransUnion to pay consumers who were misled when they tried to freeze their credit and it didn’t work. When CFPB workers were fired on February 11 and 13, 38 cases were underway against financial companies that broke the law. With the remaining staff ordered to stop all work by Russell Vought, the Trump-appointed acting director (and a Project 2025 architect), “those companies can just keep doing what they were doing,” Hickman says. Lawsuits are underway now to try to bring back fired staff and restart work. A union for federal workers is suing over the terminations, which shouldn’t be legally permissible without cause. Hickman had been in her position for less than two years, meaning she was a “probationary” employee and had fewer job protections, but still should only have been fired for performance under a specific procedure that didn’t happen. First, every probationary employee was fired; two days later, long-term employees were also fired. Another lawsuit is trying to stop the dismantling of CFPB itself. Because the agency was created by Congress, the president doesn’t have the authority to shut it down. What’s happening now to CFPB—and many other federal agencies—is unprecedented. “We are out at the edges of constitutional law right now,” says Hickman. A temporary restraining order is in place that’s supposed to stop further destruction of federal agencies, with a hearing set for March 3. But the Trump administration seems to be ignoring it. “What’s particularly shocking is that in the meantime, they seem to be just proceeding right along,” she says. “They have canceled the lease on the building. They are prying the signage off the walls. They are proceeding with the dismantling of the agency.” The lawsuits over the firings will take time, but the lawyers have no intentions of giving up. “Elon Musk and the president picked the wrong bunch of lawyers to mess with,” Hickman said in an interview with ABC News. “Consumer watchdogs are a talented and tough group of people,” she told Fast Company, “and we know just how few options consumers have to get help when banks and large companies break the law. This is why you’re seeing not just CFPB workers but also our union, other legal-services organizations, and state AGs stepping up to fight for CFPB. We know firsthand how important it is, how much everyday people will suffer, and how the markets will break down if the CFPB isn’t there to do its work.” View the full article