Hello Omni Talk Fans! Costco is the James Bond of retail, i.e. nobody does it better.
In today’s Retail Daily Minute:
- Starbucks announces plans to open 150-175 U.S. stores in 2026 and identifies up to 5,000 new coffeehouse opportunities domestically as part of its long-term growth strategy.
- Walmart prepares to launch Walmart Exports, enabling third-party sellers to ship eligible products from the U.S. to customers in Mexico and Canada through its fulfillment services.
- Costco’s limited-edition Kirkland Signature Nike SB Dunk Low collaboration sells out at $135, with pairs immediately reselling for up to $5,000 on third-party platforms.
Plus, a quote from James Bond himself.
👇 Listen now
Today’s Top Headlines
1. Starbucks Unveils Global Expansion Plans Through 2028
Starbucks plans aggressive global expansion with 600-650 new cafes opening in 2026 and over 2,000 stores planned by 2028. Long-term goals include up to 5,000 U.S. opportunities and doubling its international presence to 40,000 locations, with 15,000-20,000 new stores in China, supporting its ‘Back to Starbucks’ turnaround strategy. (Read More)
2. Walmart Launches Cross-Border Shipping Program for Sellers
Walmart plans to launch Walmart Exports in early 2026, enabling third-party sellers using Walmart Fulfillment Services to ship from the U.S. to Mexico and Canada, with more countries added later. The program competes with Amazon’s FBA Export, supporting Walmart’s e-commerce strategy to expand product assortment through third-party sellers. (Read More)
3. Costco’s Exclusive Nike Collaboration Sparks Resale Frenzy
Costco’s exclusive Kirkland Signature x Nike SB Dunk Low sneakers launched January 30 at select stores in New York, Oregon, California, and Washington state for $135. Long lines formed as members eagerly sought the limited collaboration, with resellers now listing pairs for $400-$5,000. Future restocking remains uncertain. (Read More)
4. Saks Global Ends Amazon Partnership Amid Bankruptcy
Saks Global is ending its “Saks on Amazon” partnership to focus on driving traffic directly to Saks.com. The bankrupt retailer’s struggling collaboration, which arose from Amazon’s $475 million 2024 investment requiring $900 million in payments over eight years, saw limited brand participation before the bankruptcy filing. (Read More)
5. Private Membership Clubs Transform Retail Shopping Centers
Private membership clubs are revitalizing retail centers and malls nationwide, with high-end shopping destinations like Dallas’s Highland Park Village and Miami’s Design District featuring clubs requiring $4,000-$7,000 initiation fees and $292-$400+ monthly dues. The trend benefits retailers by driving foot traffic and filling vacant retail spaces. (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 founded Omni Talk® in 2017 and have quickly turned it into one of the fastest growing blogs in retail.