Hello Omni Talk Fans! WTF is after-purchase financing? Oh yeah, it’s real, and Walmart and Klarna are about to bring it to market.
In today’s Retail Daily Minute:
- Lidl US loses another CEOÂ as Joel Rampoldt exits after less than two years.
- Klarna launches after-purchase financing through “Swipe to Finance,” partnering with Walmart-backed OnePay to let consumers convert completed debit card purchases into installment loans.
- BJ’s Wholesale Club expands in-store digital advertising by deploying Looma interactive screens in wine and liquor aisles across all clubs with alcohol departments.
Plus, a quote from a film set in Germany that I saw as a young lad.
👇 Listen now
Today’s Top Headlines
1. Lidl US CEO Joel Rampoldt Steps Down Amid Challenges
Lidl US confirmed CEO Joel Rampoldt stepped down after serving since 2023, now serving as an advisor. Marco Giudici will serve as interim CEO. Rampoldt, the fifth CEO since 2015, led rebranding efforts but faced significant challenges as the discount grocer struggles in the U.S. market, lagging behind rival Aldi’s rapid growth. (Read More)
2. Klarna Partners OnePay for Debit Card Installment Loans
Klarna Group will soon allow shoppers to convert completed debit card purchases into installment loans through a partnership with Walmart-backed fintech OnePay. The BNPL company’s “Swipe to Finance” feature launches in coming months, giving consumers flexibility to repay purchases over time, though specific loan terms remain unclear. (Read More)
3. BJ’s Wholesale Adds Interactive Screens for Alcohol brands
BJ’s Wholesale Club is adding in-aisle interactive advertising screens from Looma in its beer, wine and liquor departments, providing personalized recommendations to members. Kroger recently implemented similar screens in nearly 600 stores, achieving 2-4x incremental return on ad spend and 98% customer satisfaction during its pilot. (Read More)
4. Pop Mart Expands to 20 Simon Property Group Malls
Pop Mart is expanding to more than 20 Simon Property Group malls and outlets in 2026, including King of Prussia. Fueled by the trending Labubu collectible phenomenon, the Asian toy retailer now operates over 60 Americas locations. The expansion deepens Pop Mart’s strategic partnership with Simon across key U.S. markets. (Read More)
5. Meijer Launches WellSync Telehealth for Common Conditions
Meijer partnered with digital healthcare platform WellSync to offer virtual healthcare services for common conditions like cold, flu, and allergies at $29.99 per visit without insurance required. Accessible through Meijer’s website and pharmacy app, the telehealth service joins similar offerings from retailers including Amazon, Walmart, and Kroger. (Read More)
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Be careful out there,
— 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.