John Lewis Partnership has decided to revamp its retail tech innovation programme, JLAB, with a focus on themes that are important to customers, and a series of activities launching later in the year.

Swiss textile innovation firm HeiQ, a specialist in sportswear fabrics, has launched a new hydro-functional polymer called HeiQ Adaptive AC-06.

A recent NRF and IBM study suggests that while Gen-Zers favor brick-and-mortar, retailers who fail to integrate online and mobile services with their physical stores may be missing the mark with this key demographic.

Outdoor Voices is using augmented reality to debut the launch of its new running collection. Through the OV Trail Shop app, users can preview seams, textures and finishes, and locate running product in store.

Coty unveiled a blended reality experience in its recently redone Bourjois boutique in Paris where customers can physically hold product samples and virtually test them without hygienic concerns using augmented reality.

Amazon has launched Alexa Skill Blueprints, giving users the opportunity to create personalized Alexa skills suited to their homes and families. Categories of skills include at home, fun and games, and learning.

Amazon has launched what it is calling the "International Shopping" experience, allowing users to shop through its app and on mobile browsers in 5 languages and 25 currencies with more to be added later in 2018.

The chatbot uses Artificial Intelligence to help customers find the right details for their return, and reduces the time a customer needs to spend in-store.

Nordstrom has opened its first full-line standalone men's flagship in New York City. The three-level 47,000-square-foot store offers unique brand experiences and elevated services.

Nike Inc. on Monday announced it has acquired Invertex, a computer vision firm based in Tel Aviv, as the U.S. sportswear giant continues to strengthen its digital platforms. 

Lifestyle retailer Fat Face is preparing to launch online operations in new territories. The company has partnered with payment platform Ayden as part of a wider revamp of its e-commerce  capabilities.

The Stockholm-based fashion brand has launched a new "Beacons Project," consisting of creating a new line of shirts made using upcycled plastic salvaged from the ocean by fishermen in the Mediterranean

The H&M Foundation has awarded Circular Systems, a materials company, the 2018 Global Change Award for technology and processes that can turn food crop waste into sustainable and regenerative fashion.

Prestige beauty company L'Occitane en Provence is taking its assortment on the road with its new L'Occi Truck, the first ever traveling retail experience for the brand, modeled on the food truck concept.

The 5th edition of ISKO I-SKOOL, ISKO's prize for new talents in the denim industry, has announced the 20 finalists of its fashion category, selected from the 200 candidates who presented their ideas last November.