Walmart is closing four stores in Chicago, cutting its footprint in half in the third-largest U.S. city after years of mounting losses. The closings mark a retreat for the nation's largest retailer, which faces tough competition in Chicago from the likes of Target, Albertsons, and Aldi. Walmart said it had tried and failed to improve its performance by building smaller stores, localizing its merchandise offerings, and investing $70 million in recent years on store upgrades.
Inflation-weary Americans are still spending money every month, but the April numbers show they’re starting to cut back on a few types of expensive purchases.
You don’t have to be an Olympic-level athlete to wear On’s shoes or apparel, but the company will use the 2024 games to continue growing its footprint.
Companies are making money, the economy is cooling down, and a rate cut or two possible by the fall? It might be time to break out the cautious optimism.