Hello Omni Talk Fans! 2026 has arrived, which can mean only one thing – Omni Talk is here to get you up to speed on the trends shaping retail.
In today’s Retail Daily Minute:
- Instacart shuts down its controversial price testing program following Consumer Reports investigation that found 23% price differences between customers, as regulatory pressure and consumer backlash force the platform to prioritize trust over pricing optimization.
- Sweetgreen completes the sale of Spyce and its Infinite Kitchen automation technology to Wonder for $186 million, monetizing its 2021 acquisition while maintaining operational access through a long-term licensing agreement.
- The Save Mart Companies rolls out Amazon return kiosks to 200+ stores across four Western states, leveraging brick-and-mortar locations to drive traffic and sales with label-free, box-free returns.
Plus, a quote from a movie that inspired me over the holidays.
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Today’s Top Headlines
1. Instacart Ends Price Testing to Ensure Consistency Across Platform
Instacart ends all item price tests, acknowledging they missed customer expectations. Shoppers buying identical items simultaneously from the same store will now see identical prices. The company clarified tests weren’t dynamic or surveillance pricing and will focus on encouraging in-store and online price parity with retail partners. (Read More)
2. Sweetgreen Sells Spyce’s Infinite Kitchen to Wonder for $186M
Sweetgreen completes the sale of Spyce, developer of its Infinite Kitchen technology, to Wonder Group for $100 million cash and $86.4 million in shares. Originally acquired in 2021 for approximately $70 million, the technology operates in over 20 locations. Sweetgreen retains usage rights through a long-term supply agreement. (Read More)
3. The Save Mart Expands Amazon Return Kiosks Across 140 Stores
The Save Mart Companies expanded Amazon return kiosks to 140 stores across California and Nevada after a successful 15-store pilot program. The convenient service requires no shipping boxes or labels, and customers will receive a $5 discount on purchases of $25 or more. All remaining stores will have kiosks by February 2026. (Read More)
4. Saks Global Names Richard Baker New CEO Amid Bankruptcy
Saks Global appointed Richard Baker as New CEO, replacing Marc Metrick, as the company reportedly prepares to file Chapter 11 bankruptcy within days. The filing follows a missed interest payment on its $2.7 billion Neiman Marcus acquisition. Saks operates luxury retailers including Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus, and Bergdorf Goodman. (Read More)
5. Zales Launches The Edit a Next-Generation Jewelry Retail Concept
Zales launched The Edit, a next-generation retail concept blending style and personalized service, now open in four markets with 2026 expansion planned. Following its 2025 rebrand, the concept features customization zones, digital discovery tools, and interactive displays emphasizing self-purchase and self-expression in fine jewelry. (Read More)
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— Chris, Anne, and the entire Omni Talk team
Omni Talk® is the retail blog for retailers, written by retailers. Chris Walton and Anne Mezzenga founded Omni Talk® in 2017 and have quickly turned it into one of the fastest growing blogs in retail.