Adobe expects U.S. holiday ecommerce to reach a record $275.1 billion as shopping moves further into October. This week also brings a new TikTok Shop returns partnership, updated retail theft data, David’s Bridal’s push beyond traditional retail, Nordstrom’s delivery plans, and another month of retail sales growth.
Alyssa Wolfe
Alyssa Wolfe is a content strategist, storyteller, and creative and content lead with over a decade of experience shaping brand narratives across industries including retail, travel, logistics, fintech, SaaS, B2C, and B2B services. She specializes in turning complex ideas into clear, human-centered content that connects, informs, and inspires. With a background in journalism, marketing, and digital strategy, Alyssa brings a sharp editorial eye and a collaborative spirit to every project. Her work spans thought leadership, executive ghostwriting, brand messaging, and educational content—all grounded in a deep understanding of audience needs and business goals. Alyssa is passionate about the power of language to drive clarity and change, and she believes the best content not only tells a story, but builds trust and sparks action.
WMS, OMS, and TMS handle different parts of fulfillment, but brands experience the handoffs between them. This updated guide compares their roles and shows how integrations, practical automation, and AI can support a connected 3PL operation.
AI agents are moving closer to making purchases for consumers while new forecasts point to strong ecommerce growth through the holidays. Amazon Shipping has announced its 2026 peak surcharges, FedEx is tackling cross-border costs, and BuyWander raised $21 million to expand its marketplace for returned goods.
AI assistants are helping holiday shoppers choose gifts before they reach a retailer’s website. As these discovery channels grow, retailers face new questions about anticipating demand and keeping delivery promises during peak season.
Ecommerce sellers are already using AI to prepare for holiday, while USPS adds another peak-season cost consideration. This week also brings a $10 million ecommerce fund, Sur La Table’s move into recommerce, new FTC scrutiny of personalized pricing, and retailers reducing product variety to manage higher costs.
Same-day delivery is no longer the fastest option on the checkout page. Amazon, Walmart, and The Home Depot are building services measured in hours or minutes, but ultrafast delivery only makes sense when the product, market, and economics align.
The right 3PL technology can improve inventory visibility, streamline workflows, support complex fulfillment needs, and give brands more control as they scale.
Ultrafast delivery accelerates, Amazon scales drones, toy sales jump 17%, Target gives emerging food brands a bigger platform, and August consumer confidence weakens heading toward holiday.
Peak season surcharges are rising on top of already higher shipping costs in 2026. See what FedEx, USPS, Amazon, and other carriers have announced, what has changed since 2025, and which peak fees are still pending.