After years of financial pressure and uneven performance, Wayfair may be turning a corner. The home furnishings retailer just reported its strongest sales growth and profitability since 2021, and announced plans to open a new 140,000-square-foot store in Denver—its third new large-format location this year—as it continues experimenting with physical retail. Second-quarter sales climbed 5% to $3.3 billion. Excluding the impact of last year’s exit from the German market, revenue increased by 6%. Net income reached $15 million, compared to a net loss of $40 million in the same period last year. “The second quarter was a resounding success, defined by accelerating sales and share gain, in tandem with expanding profitability,” said Niraj Shah, CEO, co-founder and co-chairman. “As we have discussed over the last few years, we can and will grow profitably, while taking significant share in the market. Two decades of this approach have taught us that building great things takes time, but when done with thought, care and prudence, can have a payoff well worth the wait.”

In a first for Ikea’s U.S. business, the home goods company will pilot kitchen and storage planning services inside select Best Buy locations, according to a Thursday press release. The in-store collaboration will launch at 10 Best Buy stores throughout Florida and Texas later this year. Two of those locations will also serve as free pickup points for most Ikea orders. The shop-in-shops will feature 1,000-square-foot Ikea footprints showcasing kitchen and laundry room settings, per the release.

With rival Nike working through sales declines and Puma just last week reporting a sales drop and a guidance cut, Adidas is capitalizing on the moment by kicking up marketing investments and letting others lead the way on price increases in the U.S. “It is very, very important that you don’t run away from the lower price points and believe you can just raise prices and do less volume,” CEO Bjørn Gulden said on a call with analysts Wednesday. “The price increases that might come in the U.S. because of the tariffs should not have any impact on prices in any other market. We will not try to take the tariffs in the U.S. and then put them on the prices in Germany.” Gulden alluded to the fact that Nike would likely lead price increases in the market and Adidas would follow, though the retailer intends to also share the costs of tariffs with suppliers and retailers. Adidas will also drop new products at higher prices than it otherwise would to offset the costs, which is an advantage in some ways since shoppers won’t know there’s been an increase. “We have not canceled one order,” Gulden said, referencing others who have pulled back on inventory purchases in recent quarters. “We have not seen any cancellations yet from any retailers.”

In a sign it’s serious about yanking Athleta from its doldrums, Gap Inc. has tapped Nike veteran Maggie Gauger to be global brand president and CEO, effective Friday. Gauger has been at Nike for more than two decades, most recently leading the North America women’s business. She replaces former Alo Yoga executive Chris Blakeslee, who arrived two years ago, after longtime Gap Inc. executive Mary Beth Laughton abruptly left. It was clear by this past spring that analysts had lowered their expectations of Athleta, though less clear when their patience might run out. “The Athleta turnaround is definitely taking longer than the market has expected and while we are believers it will turn it may not be in 2025,” Evercore analysts led by Michael Binetti said in a May client note. The brand has eluded the upswing seen at Gap Inc. since Richard Dickson’s arrival as CEO two years ago, the same week Blakeslee joined. Laughton, also a Nike vet who took the Athleta post in 2019, had herself been working on a turnaround, but left shortly after it became clear that merchandising changes under her watch were falling flat.

Tractor Supply on Thursday reported that Q2 net sales rose 4.5% year over year to $4.4 billion, with store comps up 1.5% — the retailer’s “largest sales quarter ever,” CEO Hal Lawton told analysts. A year ago, the company saw comps drop 0.5%. Gross margin expanded to 36.9% from 36.6% last year, as net income rose 1.1% to $430 million. The company reaffirmed its full-year outlook, saying it expects net sales to rise 4% to 8%, comps to be flat or rise as much as 4% and net income to land between $1.07 billion and $1.17 billion. In Q2 the retailer opened 24 new Tractor Supply stores and two under the Petsense by Tractor Supply banner, and closed one Petsense by Tractor Supply location. The plan is to open 100 new stores in 2026, with the help of the recent acquisition of 18 Big Lots locations, executives said Thursday.

Yankee Candle is unveiling a rebrand on Wednesday, part of a larger strategy to gain relevancy with younger shoppers and turn around declining sales. The rebrand features a new logo and new wax formulation, on top of new behind-the-scenes strategies to juice up its marketing and invest more heavily in its store footprint. Aaron Swart, who became the svp and gm of home fragrance at Yankee Candle’s owner Newell Brands last summer, told Modern Retail a relaunch was necessary due to sales slumps, an outdated look and a need to appeal to younger customers to drive growth.

Nordstrom continues to expand its off-price division. The department store retailer, which in May closed on its deal to go private, is on track to open 21 Nordstrom Rack stores this year. It expects to open roughly the same amount in 2026, and has already announced a handful of openings, including a 30,000-sq.-ft. store at Turkey Creek in Knoxville, Tenn., and a 27,000-sq.-ft. store at Sarasota Pavilion in Sarasota, Fla.

The activewear brand, which will open two locations this fall, has expanded its e-commerce presence to an additional 11 countries as it looks to grow overseas. As Lululemon looks to quadruple its international revenue by 2026, rival Vuori is leaning into its own global expansion. The activewear brand is opening its first locations in Seoul, South Korea, and Beijing this fall, on a path to running more than 100 stores globally by the end of the year, per a company press release emailed to Retail Dive. The Seoul store will be run by a franchise partner and open in September, while Beijing is planned for October. Those locations will be part of about 15 international stores Vuori expects to operate by 2026. The retailer already runs stores in London and Shanghai, and has a “strong start to wholesale” in Japan and Europe. At the same time, Vuori has expanded its e-commerce platform to 11 additional countries: Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, Switzerland, Spain, Italy, Belgium, Austria, Portugal and Japan.

Kohl’s appointed Arianne Parisi as its chief digital officer, effective July 28, amid a broad turnaround effort to restore profitability. Parisi will report to Michael Bender, who was appointed as interim CEO in May.   Parisi joins the company after a 20-year career in retail, serving in digital or e-commerce leadership roles at JD Sports, Finish Line and Nordstrom. Most recently, she was EVP and global chief digital officer at JD Sports.

This year, Walmart has been on a marketing blitz to change what people think of its brand, both in subtle and more obvious ways. At the start of 2025, Walmart took a subdued approach to redefining its image, updating its brand identity with a thicker, bolder logo and spark icon, as well as slightly different shades of blue and yellow — meant to modernize and refresh the brand’s visuals while acknowledging its long history in retail. In June, Walmart took a louder approach to telling people things have changed as it launched a new ad campaign called “Who knew?” The campaign includes a TV ad that opens with actor Walton Goggins from HBO’s “The White Lotus” sitting in a sauna, saying it’s a secret that it came from Walmart, but that soon everyone will know it. The same secret applied to other items shown in the ad, like dancing shoes, an accordion and even a megaphone, all of which are available on Walmart’s website and app,

In March, dozens of people waited in a long line — for sandwiches known as “pub subs,” baked goods or other items — wrapping around the new Publix store in Walton, Kentucky.…

A longstanding apparel retailer is set to undergo a change at chief executive.  L.L.Bean Inc. has announced that president and CEO Stephen Smith will depart from the company in the spring of…

Target Corp. is celebrating the opening of eight new stores this summer — including its 320th location in California. The openings are part of the 20 new locations that Target plans to open this year, and…

Nordstrom is hosting its anniversary sale from July 12 to Aug. 3. The department store is offering its loyalty program members early access to discounts depending on their membership status. Icon loyalty members…

Costco Wholesale Corporation today reported net sales of $26.44 billion for the retail month of June, the five weeks ended July 6, 2025, an increase of 8.0 percent from $24.48…

Family Dollar has started its new chapter as a standalone private company under new owners. Dollar Tree Inc. has completed the sale of its struggling Family Dollar business to private equity firms…

In a lawsuit against Costco over a variety of apparel designs, the athleisure brand laments the proliferation of “LululemonDupes” on social media. Brands claiming trademark infringement usually rely on the…

Big 5 Sporting Goods Corp. is going private. The sporting goods retailer has agreed to be acquired by a partnership comprised of Worldwide Golf and Capitol Hill Group in an all-cash transaction valued at…

The United States Postal Service has once again filed to increase postal rates. This is a continuation of USPS’s Delivering for America Plan (DFA), a 10-year roadmap aimed at financial stability. If approved by the Postal Regulatory Commission, new rates will take effect July 13, 2025. This would mark the seventh price hike since 2021 and a continuation of a troubling trend for those who rely on the Postal Service. When is the Cost of Stamps Going Up? The cost of a First-Class Mail Forever stamp is set to rise by 5 cents, from 73 cents to 78 cents. This is part of a broader 7.4% increase across mailing services.

Wiley announced that its Board of Directors has declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.355 per share on its Class A and Class B Common Stock, payable on July 24, 2025, to shareholders of record on July 8, 2025. The quarterly dividend is equivalent to an annual dividend of $1.42 per share, an increase from $1.41 per share in Fiscal 2025. It is Wiley’s 32nd consecutive annual increase. The Company also announced that its Board of Directors has approved a $250 million share repurchase authorization, an increase from the 2020 authorization of $200 million. In Fiscal 2025, Wiley allocated $76 million and $60 million to dividends and share repurchases, respectively.

Google is providing new support for the American Journalism Project (AJP). The purpose is to strengthen sustainability and help local nonprofit news publishers. AJP will use the funding to help high-potential news organizations and to mobilize local philanthropy to address information gaps. It will also launch an accelerator program to help newsrooms grow their audiences with digital marketing. The accelerator program will provide specialized support to help nonprofit newsrooms with issues like audience growth, earned revenue, talent, finance, product and AI. It will be part of AJP’s Knight Resiliency Lab.

“I am proud of the FedEx team for a solid finish to the fiscal year, delivering excellent service for our customers while achieving our structural cost reduction target, in the face of ongoing headwinds,” said Mr. Subramaniam. “We will continue to leverage the unique scale and flexibility of our global network to support our customers as the demand environment evolves. Looking ahead, I’m confident that our transformation initiatives, which are focused on integrating our networks and further reducing our cost-to-serve, will create meaningful long-term value.” Federal Express segment operating results improved during the quarter, driven by cost reduction benefits from DRIVE, increased U.S. and international export volume, and higher base yield. These factors were partially offset by higher purchased transportation and wage rates, one fewer operating day, and the expiration of the U.S. Postal Service contract. FedEx Freight segment operating results decreased during the quarter due to lower fuel surcharges, reduced weight per shipment, higher healthcare costs, increased wage rates, and one fewer operating day. These factors were partially offset by higher base yield and a $33 million gain on the sale of a facility.

Amazon announced plans to expand the convenience and reliability of Same-Day and Next-Day Delivery to tens of millions of U.S. customers in more than 4,000 smaller cities, towns, and rural communities by the end of the year. After delivering to Prime members at record-breaking speeds in 2023 and 2024, Amazon is continuing to innovate to deliver even faster in 2025. So far this year the number of items delivered the same or next day in the U.S. increased over 30% compared to the same period last year. This expansion goes beyond speed—it's about transforming daily life for rural customers, who typically live farther from brick-and-mortar retailers, have fewer product and brand choices, and face limited delivery options when shopping online. By investing in rural communities, Amazon’s speedy delivery will save customers time and money regardless of where they live—from North Padre Island, Texas and Asbury, Iowa to Lewes, Delaware and Fort Seneca, Ohio. With Prime, members have access to unlimited free Same-Day Delivery when spending over $25 at checkout.

Total revenues across all categories for April 2025 were down 4.0% as compared to April 2024, coming in at $931.7 million. Year-to-date revenues were down 0.2%, at $4.1 billion for the first four months of the year. Trade (Consumer Books) revenues were down 2.7% in April at $734.1 million. In terms of physical paper format revenues during the month of April, in the Trade (Consumer Books) category, Hardback revenues were up 2.6%, coming in at $273.5 million; Paperbacks were down 3.8%, with $251.9 million in revenue; Mass Market was up 31.9% to $10.4 million; and Special Bindings were down 14.5%, with $12.4 million in revenue. eBook revenues were up 0.3% for the month as compared to April 2024 for a total of $84.8 million, and the Digital Audio format was down 12.5% for April, coming in at $83.1 million in revenue. Physical Audio was down 47.1%, coming in at $400 thousand.

Axel Springer is planning to add a third business to the two it already has — journalism and media marketing — while doubling its value within five years. “We have to build a high-margin, hyper-growth business beyond journalism and marketing media, a third pillar as a strategic hedge,” said Mathias Döpfner, CEO of the company, speaking during a strategy meeting attended by 100 executives in Berlin. That would entail increasing direct access to its journalism with no outside platforms in the middle. And, this third pillar would also be built on AI, a technology Döpfner has long championed. “Digital is the new print,” he said. “AI is the new digital.”

Savvas Learning Company announced that K-12 educators are invited to sign up for its newly expanded Science of Reading Digital Bookshelf, which provides free access to dozens of high-quality professional learning resources. Educators can access the Digital Bookshelf whenever and wherever they have an Internet connection, allowing for anytime, anywhere professional learning this summer — at home, at the park, and even at the beach. The Science of Reading Digital Bookshelf contains more than 50 high-quality professional learning resources, including on-demand webinars, ebooks, self-study guides, ready-to-use classroom activity guides, blogs, podcasts, educational videos, and a research brief. The 10 on-demand webinars on the Digital Bookshelf are among Savvas Learning Company's most popular sessions, featuring renowned literacy authors, researchers, and professors exploring the latest research and strategies for the Science of Reading.

News Corp announced the extension of Robert Thomson’s contract, which will see him continue as Chief Executive through June 2030. The extension is a recognition of Mr. Thomson’s exceptional track record of transformational leadership, value creation and effective advocacy for journalism and intellectual property protection. Since Mr. Thomson’s appointment as Chief Executive in 2013, News Corp has undergone significant transformation, with a focus on strategic investments in its core growth pillars—Dow Jones, Digital Real Estate Services and Book Publishing—and delivered its four most profitable years from fiscal 2021 to 2024, with continued strong performance in fiscal 2025. During this period of dramatic change across media and technology, News Corp has thrived, while many other media entities have floundered.

Washington Post readers will notice a change in Monday's print edition. The Post is consolidating its Metro, Sports and Style sections, at least on most days. “The number of stories we publish will not be changing” writes Matt Murray, executive editor, in a note to print subscribers. ”The daily news report, and your favorite stories, columns, and features, all remain part of The Post. The announcement comes as the Post’s paid daily circulation is down to 97,000, versus 250,000 five years ago.

A new survey reveals almost all consumers express concerns over tariffs, with many saying tariffs will change how they shop. Nearly nine-in-10 U.S. consumers surveyed by the Numerator Tariff Sentiment Tracker (88%) say that they are concerned about the impact of tariffs, in line with survey results from April. Almost two-in-three (64%) respondents are worried about higher prices on everyday goods, while 59% are worried about general inflation, 48% are worried about higher prices on non-essential items, and 45% are concerned about limited availability of certain products. Eight-in-10 (81%) respondents expect to adjust their finances or shopping habits in response to the tariffs.

Publishers who mail newspapers have until July 1 to start cross-strapping bundles that go through mail processing, the Wisconsin Newspapers Association has reminded members. The goal of the U.S. Postal Service is to diminish bundle breakage during mail processing, the association states. The USPS will require “all bundles of flats to have two or more cross-strapped bands or be shrink-wrapped with one or more cross-strapped bands except for newspapers that are place in a flat tray and entered as exceptional dispatch,” the USPS announced in March.

“We delivered another strong year of execution as we met or exceeded our financial commitments, drove profitable growth in our core, expanded margins and free cash flow, and extended further into the corporate market through AI licensing and partnership, science analytics, and knowledge services,” said Matthew Kissner, President and CEO. “Our multi-year journey of continuous improvement and innovation is yielding material gains in profitable revenue growth, margin expansion, and cash generation, and we remain steadfast and confident in our continued progress.” *Q4 reported revenue of $443 million vs. $468 million due to foregone revenue from divestitures *Q4 Operating Income of $76 million vs. $69 million *Full year reported revenue of $1,678 million vs. $1,873 million due to foregone revenue from divested businesses *Full year Operating Income of $221 million vs. $52 million

Amazon announced 96-hours of savings this Prime Day from July 8 at 12:01 a.m. PDT through July 11. With the summer shopping event returning, for the first time for 4 days, Prime members have double the time to shop millions of deals with savings on pantry staples and snacks for summer gatherings to home improvement must-haves, back-to-school supplies, health and personal care finds, family-favorite toys, bestselling books, pet essentials, and even premium and luxury splurges. New this year, Amazon introduces Today's Big Deals—themed daily deal drops featuring some of the most exciting deals of the event, exclusive to Prime members. Members can enjoy deep discounts across top brands like Samsung, Kiehl’s, and Levi’s. These special offers launch daily at midnight PDT and remain available for a limited time while supplies last. Members can also check back frequently to discover incredible savings with deals dropping as often as every five minutes during select periods throughout the event. "New this year, we're offering exclusive deals including fuel discounts for summer travel, alongside some of our lowest prices of the year from top brands. We're also excited about our enhanced Prime for Young Adults membership, giving 18–24-year-olds the ability to enjoy new exclusive perks like 5% cash back for a limited time, plus new shopping features that make discovering personalized savings easier than ever," said Jamil Ghani, vice president of Amazon Prime.

The overwhelming majority of businesses are adopting artificial intelligence into their customer communications. According to a new report based on surveys of businesses and consumers from communications platform Sinch, 97% of businesses plan to use AI in their customer communications this year, with top investment areas for 2025 including AI voice assistants (63%), AI-powered video chats (48%) and AI-driven chatbots (43%). Sixty percent of financial services respondents and 57% from healthcare say they’ll invest in AI chatbots, which is higher than the average of 46%. Only 29% of retailers said they’d invest in other messaging apps like WhatsApp and Messenger, which is lower than the 42% average across industries surveyed by Sinch.

The Detroit Free Press and The Detroit News will sever their connection at the start of 2026 and each will go its own way. The Free Press will remain with its parent Gannett. “The joint operating agreement between the Detroit Free Press and the Detroit News is set to expire at the end of this year, and the partnership will not be renewed,” says Lark-Marie Anton, chief communications officer, the Free Press reports. "The Detroit Free Press will continue to deliver essential news and content for our valued audiences and provide the best marketing solutions for our clients."

Despite the ongoing rise of digital platforms, NEW research shows that consumers continue to place high value on print media, particularly when it comes to comprehension, trust, and learning. The latest Two Sides Trend Tracker 2025 survey, one of the print and paper industry’s largest and most comprehensive studies, reveals a consistent and resilient appreciation for print in everyday life. The Covid-19 pandemic brought major disruption to print media, reshaping how consumers interacted with news and printed content. Whilst the digital world may offer convenience, the survey highlights that the preference for reading in print has recovered since the pandemic and is the preferred format for books, magazines, and important documents. In fact, 65% of European consumers prefer printed books, recovering from 53% in 2021. Magazines in print 48%, up from 35% in 2021 and printed product catalogues 33%, up from 21%.

Victoria’s Secret & Co. held its top line mostly steady in Q1 but, according to GlobalData research, lost market share. Net sales were essentially flat to last year, nearing $1.4 billion,…

The fashion brand has disrupted its industry with an agile yet polluting business model. Are the haters right or can the company be climate-friendly? Few of the nearly 8,000 companies…

Lululemon is raising prices and prepping for a hit to gross margin as tariffs sweep the industry, executives said on a Thursday earnings call. CFO Meghan Frank said the price…

Torrid Holdings Inc. met expectations for its first quarter of fiscal 2025 as it accelerates a pivot to a more digital focus. The retailer, which specializes in apparel and intimates for women sizes…

Michaels has acquired Joann’s intellectual property and private labels as its own customers’ interest in sewing grows, the company said Thursday. Michaels did not acquire any physical Joann locations as part of…

Saks Global has picked up $350 million in financing commitments from SLR Credit Solutions, including a $300 million first-in, last-out facility and a $50 million secured term loan facility, the company said…

Designed for working professionals, Publishing Pathways is a free, seven-week, educational program for people with five or more years of work experience who are interested in learning about Penguin Random…

Dollar General Corp. got off to a strong start in fiscal year 2025 and is raising its guidance for the full year as it plans to mitigate any potential tariff…

New tariffs could impact Gap’s business by $100 million to $150 million, if they remain in effect, the company said Thursday when announcing fiscal first-quarter earnings.  Shares fell more than 15% in…

Costco Wholesale Corp. ecommerce sales grew at nearly twice the rate of net sales in Q3, which also marked the sixth consecutive quarter of double-digit year-over-year online growth. Costco ecommerce…

Big Lots is entering its final wave of store reopenings under its new owners.  The discounter will reopen 78 additional locations on June 5. The stores are located in Florida, Georgia,…

Costco Wholesale Corporation today announced its operating results for the third quarter (twelve weeks). Net sales for the quarter increased 8.0 percent, to $61.96 billion, from $57.39 billion last year.…

Best Buy Co. reported a decline in its first-quarter income and revenue, and, similar to many other retailers, cut its full-year outlook. “We are updating our full year guidance to…

Dick’s Sporting Goods reported its fifth-straight quarter of same-store sales growth over 4% and stuck by its full-year outlook despite the “dynamic macroeconomic environment." The sporting goods giant reported its…

Macy’s Inc. reported better-than-expected first-quarter earnings and sales but cut its full-year profit outlook amid tariff costs. The department store giant said that it reduced its full-year earnings forecast based on…

Total revenues across all categories for March 2025 were up 7.3% as compared to March 2024, coming in at $978.0 million. Year-to-date revenues were up 1.0%, at $3.2 billion for the first three months of the year. Trade (Consumer Books) revenues were up 4.4% in March at $714.8 million. In terms of physical paper format revenues during the month of March, in the Trade (Consumer Books) category, Hardback revenues were up 19.8%, coming in at $270.0 million; Paperbacks were down 3.5%, with $249.3 million in revenue; Mass Market was down 55.4% to $3.5 million; and Special Bindings were down 24.6%, with $11.3 million in revenue. eBook revenues were up 3.6% for the month as compared to March 2024 for a total of $86.7 million, and the Digital Audio format was up 7.7% for March, coming in at $76.6 million in revenue. Physical Audio was down 61.5%, coming in at $300 thousand.

Nordstrom, Inc. announced that Erik, Pete, Jamie Nordstrom and other members of the Nordstrom family and El Puerto de Liverpool, S.A.B. de C.V. have completed their all-cash acquisition of Nordstrom for $24.25 per share. Shareholders of the Company will also be paid cash dividends of $0.25 per share and $0.1462 per share, reflecting the special cash dividend and a "stub period" quarterly dividend. With the completion of the transaction, Erik and Pete Nordstrom will lead the Company as Co-CEOs. Nordstrom common stock will cease trading prior to the opening of the New York Stock Exchange on May 21, 2025 and will be delisted from the NYSE as of May 21, 2025. "The completion of this transaction is an important milestone in our nearly 125-year history," said Erik Nordstrom, co-CEO of Nordstrom. "As we embark on this new chapter, we remain focused on what matters most: providing outstanding service, offering the best merchandise, and ultimately, helping our customers feel good and look their best. We're grateful to our teams for their hard work on behalf of our business and our customers, and we look forward to building on Nordstrom's strong foundation to reach even greater heights."

Coinciding with Google’s annual I/O developer conference, the technology and search giant unveiled new ways it plans to use artificial intelligence (AI) in its shopping experiences. Building on existing work with Google’s Gemini assistant, AI Mode and AI fitting tool, the company shared early looks in a post to its corporate blog. There, it shared how a new AI Search experience will work for shopping. It also detailed features planned for agentic checkout and the state of its virtual dressing room. The latter launches in the U.S. on May 20.

Microsoft Chief Technology Officer Kevin Scott wants businesses to prioritize openness and simplicity, and believes the future will be built on artificial intelligence (AI) and the “agentic web” -- where the technology does more than answer questions and collaborates with other platforms, accessing tools and conducting sophisticated tasks autonomously. Ahead of Microsoft's annual software developer conference, which begins today, Scott warned that a closed yet integrated approach could stifle innovation. Similar to the concept of the internet of things, where all devices and mechanical appliances connected to the web and transmit data, Scott said AI agents can only reach their full potential if they can “talk to everything in the world.”

The Chicago Sun-Times has confirmed that a summer reading feature titled “Heat Index: Your Guide to the Best of Summer” recommended fake books. "To our great disappointment, that list recommended books that do not exist," the Sun-Times acknowledged. The Philadelphia Inquirer also ran the section, which included books that famed authors Isabel Allende and Percival Everett never wrote. In fact, only five of the 15 books listed in the section are real, NPR says. The Washington Post reports that the section was “syndicated by King Features, a service from the Hearst media company.”

The online giant is building its fourth robotics fulfillment center located in Virginia, on a 107-acre site in Goochland County. Amazon expects the 3.1-million-sq.ft. facility with a 650,000-sq.-ft. footprint will create more 6han 1,000 jobs. Amazon robotics fulfillment center model features automated technology solutions in all key production areas at the site, with human employees working alongside its robotic systems seamlessly in a way that wasn’t previously possible. The retailer estimates its next-generation fulfillment centers and sites with advanced robotics will require 30% more employees in reliability, maintenance and engineering roles.

Walmart Inc., along with Sam’s Club and the Walmart Foundation, is actively supporting impacted communities in Illinois, Kentucky, and Missouri following severe storms that have left thousands with damage to their homes and many others without electricity. Together, they are committing $750,000 to support relief efforts across the impacted areas. Following the devastating storms—particularly in St. Louis, MO, and London and Somerset, KY—Walmart and Sam’s Club have been working with nonprofit organizations to provide essential resources, including: *In St. Louis: Walmart supported Annie Malone Children & Family Services to deliver two truckloads of supplies to residents. *In London, KY: At the Walmart Supercenter (Store #1113), Walmart is offering free hot meals through the support of Operation BBQ Relief. Additionally, Tides Loads of Hope laundry service and showers provided by Matthew 25: Ministries, Procter & Gamble and Walmart will be deployed to the area. *Across the impacted areas: With the loss of homes and power, Walmart and Sam’s Club have worked with ITDRC to provide wi-fi services and charging stations to those areas.

We drove solid operating discipline in Q1 FY26 and grew our higher-margin businesses, such as advertising. We’re deploying capital toward the highest returns, leveraging our omnichannel strengths to enhance the customer and member experience. Our focus on delivering value and convenience to our customers and members is resonating now more than ever. We delivered continued sales momentum across the company in Q1 FY26, enabled by competitive advantages that have continued to set us apart in the retail marketplace. We delivered solid results in Q1 FY26. Transaction counts and unit volume increases drove top-line performance, with eCommerce growth across each segment and solid inventory levels demonstrating the strength and resilience of our business model.

Total revenues across all categories for February 2025 were down 1.9% as compared to February 2024, coming in at $971.5 million. Year-to-date revenues were down 1.7%, at $2.2 billion for the first two months of the year. Trade (Consumer Books) revenues were down 4.9% in February at $683.7 million. In terms of physical paper format revenues during the month of February, in the Trade (Consumer Books) category, Hardback revenues were down 4.9%, coming in at $231.4 million; Paperbacks were down 11.4%, with $226.0 million in revenue; Mass Market was down 29.3% to $6.5 million; and Special Bindings were down 8.0%, with $14.4 million in revenue. eBook revenues were up 7.8% for the month as compared to February 2024 for a total of $102.7 million, and the Digital Audio format was up 6.8% for February, coming in at $83.3 million in revenue. Physical Audio was down 36.3%, coming in at $200 thousand. Year-to-date Trade revenues were down 3.2% at $1.5 billion for the first two months of the year. Hardback revenues were down 1.3%, coming in at $524.7 million; Paperbacks were down 10.3%, with $490.0 million in revenue; Mass Market was down 21.7% to $17.6 million; and Special Bindings were up 5.9%, with $34.4 million in revenue.

Amazon.com Inc. introduced a new warehouse robot named Vulcan, which it says will improve fulfillment speed and reduce physical strain for workers. Vulcan is Amazon’s first robot equipped with a sense of touch, according to Alex Davies, senior editor at AboutAmazon.com. In a corporate blog post, Davies wrote that Vulcan uses artificial intelligence (AI)-driven tooling and force feedback sensors to stow and retrieve items from tightly packed storage pods — areas that typically require workers to climb ladders or crouch to access. The goal, he explained, is to reduce physical strain while increasing fulfillment efficiency.

Specialty outdoor retailer REI Co-op celebrates its members and their active lives with the return of its biggest sale of the year. REI’s Anniversary Sale runs May 16 – 26 with major savings on gear and apparel brands that inspire outdoor adventures. Everyone is invited to take advantage of great deals, and members will enjoy extra savings just for them. A digital catalog is available now to serve as a resource to those who wish to plan for the sale and future adventures. Highlights include: 30% off REI Co-op brand clothing and gear (excluding bikes); 20% off all Co-op Cycles bikes; 25% off all Smartwool clothing and accessories; 20% off all Thule and Yakima racks, roof boxes and rack accessories; 25% off all Hydro Flask drinkware, kitchenware and accessories.

Springer Nature, a leading global publisher of research, today released strong results for the first three months of its financial year 2025. Revenue grew to €450 million, representing a 6% increase on an underlying [1] basis compared to the same period last year. Adjusted operating profit reached €108 million, equating to underlying [1] growth of 11%, which was mainly the result of positive revenue development during the quarter. Frank Vrancken Peeters, CEO of Springer Nature, said: “These strong first-quarter results reflect the fact that we continue to successfully deliver on our strategy to grow sustainably and to add value to our communities. I am particularly pleased with the growth in the amount of content we are making immediately open for all to use, while continuing to invest in people and technology, and to safeguard research integrity.” In the reported period, Research was a key contributor to Springer Nature's performance seeing an underlying [1] revenue growth of 7%. This was led by a strong performance in open access (OA) including an increase of about 25% [2] on prior year in published articles in its full open access (FOA) journals. Fourteen new transformative agreements were also agreed, taking the total to 80, further driving the global OA transition. In addition, around 90% of contract renewals for 2025 have already been completed.

The Postal Service filed notice with the Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC) for shipping services price changes to take effect July 13. The proposed adjustments were approved by the USPS Board of Governors this week. The changes would raise domestic shipping services prices approximately 6.3 percent for Priority Mail service, 7.1 percent for USPS Ground Advantage and 7.6 percent for Parcel Select. Prices are not changing for Priority Mail Express service. Although mailing services price increases are based on the consumer price index, shipping services prices are primarily adjusted according to market conditions. The USPS governors believe these new rates will keep the Postal Service competitive while providing the agency with needed revenue.

The U.S. Postal Service Board of Governors announced that they have chosen David Steiner to be America’s 76th Postmaster General and CEO. Pending the outcome of necessary background and ethics checks, Steiner will succeed former Postmaster General Louis DeJoy, who resigned in March, and current Acting Postmaster General Doug Tulino, who will return to his permanent position as Deputy Postmaster General and Chief Human Resources Officer. We anticipate Steiner will formally join the organization in July, assuming his successful completion of the ethics and security clearance vetting processes. “Dave is the right person to lead the Postal Service at this time to ensure this magnificent and historic organization thrives into the future,” said Amber McReynolds, chair of the Postal Service Board of Governors. “Dave is a highly regarded leader and executive with tremendous vision, experience and skill that can be applied to the long-term mission and business needs of the Postal Service. Our Board looks forward to working with Dave as he takes on the core mandates of providing universal and excellent service for the American public and doing so in a financially sustainable manner.”

The Commission published its annual Financial Analysis report, which carefully analyzes the Postal Service’s finances using a number of well-known financial parameters. This report meets the Commission’s financial reporting responsibilities and responds to the continued interest from policymakers and stakeholders in the Postal Service’s financial health. The Analysis provides greater clarity, transparency, and accountability of the Postal Service’s financial data and trends. At the end of FY 2024: The Postal Service recorded a net loss from operations of $1.8 billion and a total net loss of $9.5 billion. The Postal Service’s operating revenue was $79.5 billion, $1.2 billion higher than the previous year. Revenue from Competitive products increased by $0.5 billion and Market Dominant revenue increased by $0.8 billion in FY 2024, resulting from price increases. Total operating expenses were $81.8 billion, $0.6 billion higher than the prior year. There was a notable decrease in highway transportation expenses, which decreased by 8.2 percent from network optimization efforts as a part of the Delivering for American plan. Furthermore, air transportation expenses decreased by 20.8 percent from a shift in package volume from air to highway transportation. The Postal Service is a labor intensive organization. Labor costs account for 76.4% of total expenses and in FY 2024 total personnel operating expenses increased by $1.4 billion from FY 2023, resulting from increases in salaries, retirement and employee health benefits.

Commenting on the results, Chief Executive Robert Thomson said: “The sustained strength of News Corp’s third quarter reflects the Company’s strategic transformation. We have pursued digital growth, realigned our assets, focused relentlessly on cost discipline and asserted the essential value of our intellectual property in a changing, challenging content world. Net income from continuing operations rose 67% to $107 million, benefiting from a 12% increase in Total Segment EBITDA to $290 million, as revenue reached $2 billion, despite blustery currency headwinds and obvious macro uncertainty. Reported earnings per share from continuing operations doubled to $0.14 and margins expanded in every segment. The completion of the sale of Foxtel to DAZN last month marked a significant moment for News Corp as we continued to focus on our core pillars and on driving growth. The transaction meaningfully strengthened our balance sheet and is expected to increase return on invested capital, and be accretive to earnings per share. It also demonstrates our ongoing commitment to maximizing returns for our shareholders.

Costco Wholesale Corporation reported net sales of $21.18 billion for the retail month of April, the four weeks ended May 4, 2025, an increase of 7.0 percent from $19.80 billion last year. Net sales for the first 35 weeks were $180.05 billion, an increase of 8.2 percent from $166.44 billion last year.

Amazon announced it plans to launch an Amazon Web Services (AWS) infrastructure Region in Chile by the end of 2026. The new AWS South America (Chile) Region will give developers, startups, entrepreneurs, and enterprises, as well as financial services, retail, education, government, and nonprofit organizations, greater choice for running their applications and serving end users from data centers located in Chile. As part of its long-term commitment, Amazon is planning to invest more than $4 billion in Chile to support the construction, connection, operation, and maintenance of its data centers in the country. For more information about AWS Global Infrastructure, visit aws.amazon.com/about-aws/global-infrastructure. “The AWS South America (Chile) Region will help serve the fast-growing demand for cloud services across Latin America and in Chile with secure, reliable, and efficient cloud infrastructure,” said Prasad Kalyanaraman, vice president of Infrastructure Services at AWS. “With the new AWS Region, organizations will have the ability to build with advanced AWS technologies, like artificial intelligence and machine learning, to help accelerate growth, productivity, and innovation. By investing in local talent, educational opportunities, and digital skills training, we're proud to contribute to Chile's economic growth and digital transformation for years to come.”

When this year’s Pulitzer Prize winners were announced at Columbia University in New York on Monday, the honorees once again included authors on the Penguin Random House roster, continuing a fine tradition for the Bertelsmann book division. Since the award was first presented in 1917, a total of 143 Penguin Random House authors have won the famous prize. This time, the recipients are Percival Everett, Jason Roberts, and Kathleen DuVal who were honored in the “Fiction,” “Biography,” and “History” categories, respectively. The Pulitzer Prize jury cited Percival Everett’s novel “James,” published by Doubleday, as “an accomplished reconsideration of Huckleberry Finn that gives agency to Jim to illustrate the absurdity of racial supremacy and provide a new take on the search for family and freedom.” “Every Living Thing: The Great and Deadly Race to Know All Life” by Jason Roberts (Random House) was described as “a beautifully written double biography of Carl Linnaeus and Georges-Louis de Buffon.” And the nonfiction book “Native Nations” by Kathleen Duval was praised by the judges as “a vivid and accessible account” of Native American nations and communities over a thousand years.

Savvas Learning Company is proud to announce that Savvas PathMaker, its all-in-one digital solution for college and career readiness, has received a Gold Stevie Award in the 23rd annual American Business Awards program. The Stevie judges praised Savvas PathMaker as an “outstanding, future-forward solution that addresses both college and career readiness in a holistic and scalable way.” Designed to offer flexibility for educators and choice for students, Savvas PathMaker delivers a comprehensive catalog of Outlier by Savvas dual-enrollment courses and Savvas CTE career and technical education (CTE) courses that give students the opportunity to discover their passions, develop skills and knowledge, and prepare for the next stage of their life, whether that be college, career, or both. More than 250 judges reviewed approximately 3,600 nominations to select the 2025 Stevie winners.

Meredith Kopit Levien, president and chief executive officer, The New York Times Company, said, “As our first quarter results show, we've had a strong start to the year. Our strategy is working and our business is growing and demonstrating resilience amidst the current economic and geopolitical uncertainty. We have a diverse portfolio of world-class news coverage and leading lifestyle products; multiple, complementary revenue lines across subscriptions, advertising, affiliate and licensing; and a model that generates significant free cash flow and a strong balance sheet. All of which makes us confident we are continuing to build a larger, more profitable New York Times company." As of the first quarter of 2025 we have updated our discussion of digital advertising revenue and no longer distinguish between “core” and “other” digital advertising. Digital advertising consists of display (which includes website and mobile applications), audio, email and video advertising revenue from advertisements that are sold either directly to marketers by our advertising sales teams or, currently for a smaller proportion, through programmatic auctions run by third-party ad exchanges. Digital advertising revenue also includes creative services fees.

The Book Manufacturers' Institute (BMI) is pleased to announce that Matt Kennell of Versa Press has been honored with the prestigious 2025 Rising Star Award. The honor was established to recognize book industry professionals who may not be long-standing industry veterans, but are making a positive impact on their companies, in their communities, and in the industry. The award was first given in 2019. This year’s Rising Star Award was presented at the 2025 BMI Spring Management Conference on April 28, 2025, in Nashville, TN. BMI Cased-In Club Member and event sponsor Andy Fetherman of Muller Martini presented the award. As the head of sales, customer service, and estimating departments with 25 team members, Kennell has strategically driven organic revenue growth and expanded the sales team from 6 to 10 representatives while implementing an innovative territory model that increased customer meetings by 18% without additional travel days. His commitment extends beyond business success to community service, where he serves as Treasurer on the Open Arms Food Pantry Board of Directors and as an Elder at Metamora Mennonite Church.

Springer Nature has been selected as the new publishing partner for The College of Optometrists' flagship journal, Ophthalmic and Physiological Optics (OPO), a leading journal for contemporary research in vision science and optometry. It joins the publisher’s portfolio of around 3,000 titles, where the publisher is ranked first in research for the number of top 50 journals by impact factor. This new collaboration builds on Springer Nature and The College of Optometrists’ commitment to evidence-based high-quality research, expanding access to research with real-world impact for the public, research, policy and the optometric profession. This new partnership comes at a key moment for both Springer Nature and OPO, with OPO celebrating 100 years of publication and research excellence and Springer Nature celebrating its 10th anniversary building on 180+ years of its trusted brands.

Postmedia Network Inc. is proud to announce a collaborative relationship with the Investigative Journalism Bureau (IJB), reinforcing its commitment to exceptional journalism and the vital role investigative reporting plays in Canada’s democracy. At a time when the media industry continues to face rapid change, this relationship demonstrates Postmedia’s dedication to supporting journalism of the highest calibre, including a strong focus on investigative and long-form journalism. The IJB, based at the University of Toronto’s Dalla Lana School of Public Health and led by award-winning investigative journalist Robert Cribb, has established itself as a centre of excellence, producing high-impact journalism that drives public awareness, policy changes, and social progress. IJB’s work continues to earn national and international recognition for its quality and impact, with acclaimed works such as The Patient Files: Hidden Stories from Inside Ontario’s Hospitals and Suspended garnering widespread praise and prestigious awards.

Adaptive learning company HMH has announced the recipients of its 19th Annual 180 Awards, a national recognition program that honors students and educators who have demonstrated growth, leadership, and perseverance through their use of Read 180 and Math 180, HMH’s intensive intervention solutions. The 180 Awards recipients are nominated by fellow educators, coaches, intervention specialists, parents, and school leaders from across the country. The 180 Awards spotlight students who have overcome personal and academic challenges to make remarkable gains and educators who go above and beyond to deliver meaningful instruction, foster student achievement, and champion equity through intervention. “The 180 Awards are a testament to the resilience and determination of our students and the incredible impact our educators make every day,” said Matthew Mugo Fields, General Manager, Supplemental and Intervention Solutions at HMH.

"In the first quarter, we delivered significant improvement to our bottom line compared to the prior year period, along with sustained year-over-year growth in free cash flow. We continued to make notable progress towards debt reduction, repaying approximately $75 million of debt during the quarter, which lowered our leverage and further strengthened our capital structure. Our financial results in the first quarter reflect solid execution of our strategy and the resilience of our business in navigating both a challenging operating environment and the outsized impact of several items unique to the first quarter," said Michael Reed, Gannett Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. "With these items now behind us, we expect to drive a marked improvement in our top-line trends for the balance of the year, led by a reacceleration in our digital businesses. We believe this perspective is supported by the fact that March marked our best performing month of the quarter for digital revenue and we are seeing improving revenue trends continue into the second quarter."

We’re pleased with the start to 2025, especially our pace of innovation and progress in continuing to improve customer experiences,” said Andy Jassy, President and CEO, Amazon. “From Alexa+ (our next generation of Alexa that’s meaningfully smarter, more capable, and takes actions for customers), to another delivery speed record for our Prime members, to our new Trainium2 chips and Bedrock model expansion that make it easier for AWS customers to train models and run inference more flexibly and cost-effectively, to our first Project Kuiper satellites successfully launching into low earth orbit in our quest to provide broadband access to hundreds of millions of households in rural areas without it today—we’re continuing to find meaningful ways to make customers’ lives easier and better every day.” Some other highlights since the company’s last earnings announcement include that Amazon: *Introduced Alexa+, our next-generation Alexa personal assistant who’s meaningfully smarter and more capable than her prior self, can both answer virtually any question and take actions, and is free with Prime. *Held deal events worldwide to help customers save over $500 million across Big Spring Sale in the U.S. and Canada, Spring Deal Days in Europe, and Ramadan/Eid Sale events in Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, and UAE. *Announced Amazon’s 11th Prime Day will be in July, when customers can expect millions of deals globally on vast selection.

Two new Nature journals, Nature Health and Nature Sensors, will launch in January 2026. These titles will offer new avenues for research publication in evolving and expanding areas such as health research and applied science, increasing knowledge around some of the critical priorities facing us in the world. In a post-pandemic era where greater emphasis is being placed on a more resilient global health care system, Nature Health will seek to champion interdisciplinary research centred around the protection and promotion of health and disease prevention. The journal will aim to breakdown silos and to facilitate discoveries and discussions, by connecting researchers, healthcare professionals, innovators, policy makers, and the public. Ultimately, the aim of Nature Health is to identify and publish the best evidence to promote better health for all. The journal will be led by Chief Editor Ben Johnson. Nature Sensors will be the first selective multidisciplinary journal focused on sensors and sensing systems. With sensors playing an ever-growing role in our modern lives, the upcoming journal will showcase the exciting advancements in the field, whilst having a strong focus on societal applications. Essential to this, is the promotion of cross-community interaction and engagement within the applied sciences and engineering space, which the journal hopes to achieve. Nature Sensors’ Chief Editor is Olga Bubnova.

On April 29, in response to an April 1 request for summary judgment by Florida attorney general James Uthmeier and his legal team, the plaintiffs in Penguin Random House LLC v. Gibson urged Florida district court judge Carlos E. Mendoza to make his determination in a case targeting the improper removal of books from public school classrooms and libraries. Critics argue that the law violates the First Amendment, fails to acknowledge the expertise of librarians and educators who select books and materials, and enables unconstitutional prohibitions on school materials that are alleged to be “pornographic” or “harmful to minors.” A decision has the potential to resound in Idaho and Iowa, where books have been removed pending review and librarians have been threatened with punishment for providing materials censors find objectionable.

"S&P Global is a leader providing essential intelligence with a proven history of strong financial performance and durable growth. Separating Mobility will allow us to continue to focus on our core businesses and pursue our growth strategy," said Martina L. Cheung, President and CEO of S&P Global. S&P Global will continue as a leading provider of credit ratings, benchmarks, analytics and workflow solutions and will consist of its four highly synergistic core businesses – S&P Global Market Intelligence, S&P Global Ratings, S&P Global Commodity Insights and S&P Dow Jones Indices. Following the separation, S&P Global will benefit from simplified operations, increased focus on its enterprise strategy and a unified approach to powering public and private markets. With a strong leadership team bringing relevant industry experience, S&P Global will be optimally positioned to build on positive momentum in its product innovation and AI initiatives, as well as its proven track record of driving profitable growth among leading global brands. Mobility is an automotive data and technology leader with three divisions – Used Vehicle Sales & Service (including CARFAX), Strategy & Product Planning and New Vehicle Sales & Marketing. Evolving dynamics, including growing consumer demand for vehicle information, the rise of electrification and software-defined vehicles, direct-to-customer retail models and the supply chain disruptions related to tariffs are driving an increased need for Mobility's data and decisioning tools.

Affordable access programs are an innovative collaboration between private sector publishers, provisioning providers, and higher education institutions. The Association of American Publishers commissioned the independent analysis from Tyton Partners to provide insight into the programs, which have now been available for almost 10 years. Tyton Partners is responsible for all findings and undertook all aspects of the research, including interviews and statistical analyses, according to the firm’s rigorous, independent standards. Distributors Barnes & Noble College, Follett, RedShelf, and VitalSource contributed anonymized course materials pricing data directly to Tyton Partners. The report, which presents data from 1,088 colleges and universities in the United States, is the first in-depth analysis of affordable access programs in practice since their inception nearly a decade ago. The findings confirm that course materials are more affordable than they were a decade ago, making them a remarkable exception to the rising cost of higher education overall. “We are proud of the extraordinary commitment of private sector publishers to deliver high-quality course materials at reduced costs, a reflection of their expertise and innovations in the education-technology space,” commented Maria A. Pallante, President and CEO, Association of American Publishers. “The result is that students can access materials without delay on virtually every subject area assigned by their professors and are all the more prepared to meet a changing, global workforce that will need their knowledge and skills.”

Following the successful rollout across its journals and books of its AI tool that detects cases of AI-generated nonsense text in research manuscripts, Springer Nature is now donating the tool to STM. It will be integrated into the STM Integrity Hub, an industry-wide initiative that supports publishers in ensuring the integrity of their published content, as part of its mission to develop and trial tools that publishers large and small can use to screen submissions for indicators of compromised content. Chris Graf, Director of Research Integrity at Springer Nature and Chair of the STM Integrity Hub Governance Committee, commented: “Developing this tool has been a major investment and a long-running project involving close collaboration between leading research integrity and AI teams. We are delighted we will now be able to share this technology with the wider publishing community so it can have an even bigger impact. The rise of AI has made it easier for unethical individuals to generate fake content and tools like this one which harness the power of AI and pattern recognition will be vital, particularly when they are powered by the extensive data that utilisation across the industry will deliver.”

S&P Global announced an agreement to acquire the Automatic Identification System (AIS) data services business of ORBCOMM Inc. The AIS business is a leading provider of satellite data services used to track and monitor vessels, enhancing maritime visibility and delivering critical insights that support business intelligence and decision-making for government and commercial clients worldwide. Since 2004, ORBCOMM's AIS vessel tracking technology has incorporated high-quality, proprietary data with satellite and terrestrial based coverage. Its AIS solutions are utilized for diverse applications such as supply chain visibility, maritime safety, surveillance and security, environmental monitoring, regulatory compliance and more. ORBCOMM's AIS data services will be integrated within the S&P Global Market Intelligence division of S&P Global. "With the uncertainties surrounding global markets and supply chains, this strategic acquisition underscores our commitment to investing in differentiated data and solutions that can help our customers navigate the volatility," said Whit McGraw, Head of Risk & Valuations Services at S&P Global Market Intelligence. "ORBCOMM's AIS data services business offers cutting-edge technology and coverage that strengthens our energy transition and maritime supply chain offering, giving us ample opportunity to invest in new product innovations."

As part of the agreement, ChatGPT will display summaries, quotes and links to original reporting from the Post in response to relevant questions, the Post reports. OpenAI has formed arrangements with more than 20 news publishers, bringing its technology to over 160 outlets and hundreds of content brands, the firm says. Among its publishing partners are Guardian Media Group, Dotdash Meredith, Financial Times, The Atlantic, Vox Media, News Corp and Axel Springer. The company recently announced it would fund four new Axios newsrooms. Recently, it reached agreements with U.K. publisher Future.

The U.S. Postal Service has proposed several changes set to take effect on July 13, 2025, with rate increases and updated promotional discounts across multiple mail classes. While some of these changes are straightforward, others are more complex and may impact mailers differently depending on their specific presort levels and mail preparation strategies. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you need to know. There are three levels of USPS pricing: class level pricing, product level pricing and presort level pricing. While the USPS has shared updates for class and product levels, presort pricing remains unclear, and it’s the most variable due to its reliance on individual mailing files and presort.

Google harmed publishers and consumers by monopolizing key components of the market for online display ads, a federal judge in Virginia ruled Thursday. “For over a decade, Google has tied its publisher ad server and ad exchange together through contractual policies and technological integration, which enabled the company to establish and protect its monopoly power in these two markets,” U.S. District Court Judge Leonie Brinkema said in a 115-page ruling. “This exclusionary conduct substantially harmed Google’s publisher customers, the competitive process, and, ultimately, consumers of information on the open web,” she added.

Savvas Learning Company is excited to announce that its Outlier by Savvas dual-enrollment solution has been honored with a 2025 EdTech Award from EdTech Digest. Outlier by Savvas was named the “Cool Tool” winner in the college prep solution category. Outlier provides online, asynchronous, advanced high school courses that enable students to earn real college credits from the University of Pittsburgh, a top 50 global university. A flexible, digital solution that is easy for educators to implement, Outlier meets the needs of school districts looking to bring high-quality, college-level courses to their high schools. The EdTech Awards recognize outstanding contributions in transforming education through technology to enrich the lives of learners everywhere. The annual program shines a spotlight on inspiring technologies, leaders, and trendsetters across the K-12, higher education, and skills and workforce sectors. In addition to Outlier’s award, the EdTech Awards also named Savvas CTE, the company’s innovative career and technical education offering, a Cool Tool finalist in the career planning solution category.

Adaptive learning company HMH announced that several of its solutions have been honored by EdTech Digest’s 2025 EdTech Cool Tool Awards. HMH Social Studies + Writable Grades 6-12 was named the winner in the social studies category. HMH was also named a finalist for four of its integrated solutions – Waggle, Math 180, and HMH Into Science and HMH Arriba las Ciencias® K-8. Presented by EdTech Digest, the EdTech Awards recognize people for outstanding contributions in transforming education through technology to enrich the lives of learners everywhere. *HMH Social Studies + Writable Grades 6-12 won for best“Social Studies Solution”: Packed with inquiry-based resources, customizable assessments, and an unlimited amount of curated professional learning, HMH Social Studies is a digital-only solution that empowers educators to tailor their classroom experience. *Math 180 was named a finalist in both “Math Solution” and “Personalized Learning Solution”: Math 180 is a research-driven personalized learning solution designed to address the needs of striving math students in Grades 3-12. *HMH Into Science and HMH Arriba las Ciencias® K-8 was named a “Science Solution” finalist: HMH Into Science® and HMH Arriba las Ciencias ® K-5 and 6-8 are flexible, phenomenal, and student-centered science solutions that were built from the ground up to support the Next Generation Science Standards.

The good news is that consumer time spent with media continues to rise. The bad news is that the share of time it spends with ad-supported media continues to decline, according to just-released findings from the 2025 edition of PQ Media's annual Global Consumer Media Usage Forecast. That's the trend in both the U.S. and the worldwide media marketplace. Globally, PQ estimates consumer time spent with all forms of media -- both digital and non-digital -- rose 2.4% to 57.2 hours weekly in 2024. That's an increase of 11.1% from the 51.5 hours weekly consumers spent with media in 2019, according to PQ, and follows a sharp recent deceleration in 2023 coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Alliance for Audited Media (AAM) has launched a certification program for media organizations. The project developed guidelines to help publishers and agencies to implement responsible, transparent AI practices that build trust with readers and advertisers. The guidelines focus on transparency, accountability and ethical oversight. AAM also released a new report -- Ethical AI in Action: Eight Pillars for Transparent, Accountable AI Implementation in Media – as a companion to the certification.

The Role of Print in Learning and Education goes beyond just providing information—it enhances cognitive retention, balances screen time, and fosters a focused academic environment. Unlike electronic devices that can contribute to digital fatigue, print offers a tactile and immersive experience, helping students to better process and retain information. By minimizing distractions and providing a well-rounded approach to education, print remains an essential tool for effective learning. See video at: https://twosidesna.org/two-minutes-with-two-sides-part-2-the-role-of-print-in-learning-and-education

On April 11, 2025, the Association of American Publishers (AAP) filed an important amicus brief in support of the plaintiffs in a major AI class action suit against Meta. Plaintiffs named in the original suit include authors Sarah Silverman, Richard Kadrey, and Christopher Golden, on behalf of themselves and others. The lawsuit, filed December 22, 2023 in the Northern District of California, states that Meta appropriated millions of human-authored works—including books by the lead plaintiffs— for the purpose of training and accelerating its consumer-facing generative AI model, “LLaMA.” The suit further claims that Meta acquired much of the infringing material from notorious pirate sites on the watch lists of the U.S. government, such as Anna’s Archives and LibGen. “In filing this amicus brief, AAP explains in detail that Meta’s systematic copying and encoding of protected creative works, word by word, into a large language model, is not a transformative fair use under the law, but rather, grossly exceeds the doctrine’s legal purpose and judicial precedent,” commented Maria A. Pallante, President and CEO, Association of American Publishers.

Online sales for the largest Consumer Electronics retailers in North America have been climbing out of a hole, following negative growth year over year in 2023 and 2024, but new tariffs from an escalating trade war between the U.S. and other countries could put that recovery in jeopardy. Already, Apple and Best Buy have issued warnings about negative effects from tariffs, and analysts have cited concerns about the impact as tariffs add costs to importing goods from abroad. Apple and Best Buy are No. 1 and No. 2, respectively, in the Top 2000 Database‘s Consumer Electronics category. The database ranks North America’s largest online retailers by their annual ecommerce sales. Overall, Apple is No. 3 in the Top 2000, and Best Buy is No. 8.

Costco Wholesale Corporation reported net sales of $25.51 billion for the retail month of March, the five weeks ended April 6, 2025, an increase of 8.6 percent from $23.48 billion last year. Net sales for the first 31 weeks were $158.87 billion, an increase of 8.3 percent from $146.64 billion last year. March had one additional shopping day versus last year, due to the calendar shift of Easter. This positively impacted total and comparable sales by approximately one and one-half percent.

The U.S. Postal Service today filed notice with the Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC) of mailing services price changes to take effect July 13. The new rates include a 5-cent increase in the price of a First-Class Mail Forever stamp from 73 cents to 78 cents. The proposed adjustments, approved by the governors of the Postal Service, would raise mailing services product prices approximately 7.4 percent. If favorably reviewed by the commission, the price changes would include: (click read more to see table). The additional-ounce price for single-piece letters will increase from 28 cents to 29 cents. The Postal Service is also seeking price adjustments for the Special Services products. Notably, the Postal Service will apply a price reduction of 12 percent for postal insurance when mailing an item. As changes in the mailing and shipping marketplace continue, these price adjustments are needed to achieve the financial stability sought by the organization’s Delivering for America 10-year plan. USPS prices remain among the most affordable in the world.

Walmart is hosting its Investment Community Meeting, where leadership is sharing its focus on driving growth and creating shareholder value. The meeting will highlight Walmart’s people-led, tech-powered omnichannel strategy and why it is uniquely positioned to sustain attractive growth and create shareholder returns. “The combination of a purpose-driven, people-centric culture with world-class technology is the winning formula,” said Doug McMillon, president and CEO of Walmart Inc. “Our customers want four things: everyday low prices, a broad assortment, a convenient and enjoyable shopping experience and to do business with a company they trust. We’re changing to serve them even better.” The meeting will provide attendees a view into the company’s strategy to: *Drive growth by improving customer and member experiences. *Create shareholder value by strengthening its business model.

The Association of American Publishers and Copyright Alliance today hosted a first-of-its-kind, one-day forum at the Royal Sonesta Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, titled The Story Starts with Us: Protecting Human Creativity in Artificial Intelligence. The event explored the intersection of creative industries and emerging artificial intelligence technologies, bringing together authors, publishers, journalists, songwriters, tech innovators, and U.S. policymakers to address issues relating to copyright and generative AI, including the policy framework that protects the livelihoods of creators by preventing theft and misuse of their creative works. As policymakers weigh the benefits and risks of generative AI technologies, the question of how to protect and incentivize the creative and intellectual expression of humans is of critical importance. Today’s forum presented the major issues of policy, practice, and ethics for AI and copyright law, from ingestion of creative works to the public deployment of tools and regenerated content – with a focus on text-centric creative industries.

Walmart+ is celebrating its continued momentum by rolling out the blue carpet for the return of Walmart+ Week, taking place from April 28 through May 4. This year’s members-only, weeklong event celebrates both loyal and new members with an exciting array of exclusive rewards and offers that build upon existing benefits, including: *1 free Express Delivery for everyday essentials and more in as soon as 1 hour1 *50¢ off every gallon of fuel at participating Exxon™ and Mobil™ stations nationwide, helping members save on fuel costs *Up to 2 free sandwiches from Burger King® daily with your $1+ purchase (1 Croissan’wich® 1 Whopper® Jr.), perfect for a quick and delicious meal2 *6 months of the Paramount+ with SHOWTIME plan, so members can enjoy even more of their favorite shows and movies3

A new AI tool to identify irrelevant references in submitted manuscripts has been launched for use across Springer Nature’s journals and books. The tool is the latest AI-driven tool that has been developed in-house at Springer Nature to weed out problematic submissions and ensure the veracity of the publication record. The tool will be used by Springer Nature’s Research Integrity Group (RIG) to assess submissions to almost all journals and books published by Springer Nature, analysing the relevance of each reference used. If a number of references are identified as irrelevant, the submission will be flagged to RIG who will manually check the manuscript and decide whether the submission should be withdrawn. The irrelevant reference checker tool has undergone multiple rounds of testing and validation to ensure it provides a precise and reliable assessment of references across academic disciplines, and training and development of the tool will be ongoing. Human oversight will always remain in place, in line with Springer Nature’s AI Principles.

The Association of American Publishers (AAP) has announced the four Area of Excellence winners of its annual PROSE Awards, recognizing outstanding scholarly publications in four categories: Biological & Life Sciences, Humanities, Physical Sciences & Mathematics, and Social Sciences. AAP has awarded the prestigious R.R. Hawkins Award —the top honor of the PROSE Awards —to University of California Press for Exit Wounds: How America’s Guns Fuel Violence across the Border by Ieva Jusionyte. “We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the University of California Press, Elsevier Inc., and Princeton University Press, whose exceptional entries demonstrate groundbreaking scholarship and a dedication to publishing excellence,” commented Syreeta Swann, Chief Operating Officer at AAP. “We also extend a thank you to our esteemed panel of judges, who year-after-year express unwavering commitment to evaluating submissions with care and expertise, as well as all entrants who continue to advance the scholarly publishing community.”

News Corporation announced it has completed the sale of Foxtel Group (“Foxtel”) to DAZN Group Limited (“DAZN”). The completion of the transaction follows DAZN receiving approval for the acquisition of Foxtel from the Foreign Investment Review Board, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission and other regulatory authorities. At completion, A$592 million in shareholder loans were repaid to News Corp, and News Corp received a minority equity interest in DAZN of approximately 6%. News Corp’s Senior Vice President and Deputy Chief Financial Officer Andrew Cramer also joined the board of DAZN effective upon completion, and News Corp and its platforms remain committed in their passionate support for Australian sport and entertainment.

One of the reasons that brands continue to rely on paper as their substrate of choice for any number of applications is versatility and flexibility. Plus, the printability of paper compared to other substrates makes it faster and easier to print a range of materials, like signs, posters, and a variety of sales and marketing materials. However, traditional paper is not necessarily the most durable print media, and this is where synthetic paper comes in as a tearproof, weatherproof solution that’s ideal for retailers, restaurants, and event spaces. Foldable synthetic paper — a print media made from polypropylene for enhanced durability — is the best of both worlds, combining the print quality and pliability of traditional paper with the ability to withstand environmental elements. Here, we’ll look at a handful of applications that are ideal for foldable synthetic paper, and why the new Nekoosa PP Synthetic foldable paper is the choice for these specific applications. Foldable synthetic paper for restaurant menus - The ability to manipulate the form and shape makes foldable synthetic paper a value-driven choice for restaurant menus. Not only can foldable synthetic paper provide superior flexibility and pliability, this kind of print media is weatherproof, making it ideal for indoor and outdoor use. Foldable synthetic paper for brochures and manuals - A sales or marketing brochure can be your opportunity to make a positive first impression, which means you want to put your best foot forward in terms of print quality. Foldable synthetic paper for product tags - Whether you’re printing plant tags, bottle tags, or other kinds of product tags, foldable synthetic paper can help ensure that these applications remain blemish-free without sacrificing print and color quality.

Higher book prices, the continuing strength of the audiobook market, and acquisitions combined to lift worldwide sales 8.5% at Penguin Random House in 2024 over 2023 and profits rose 11.3%, reported parent company Bertelsmann. Revenue increased to €4.9 billion ($5.3 billion at current exchange rates) and operating EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization) rose to €739 million from €664 million in 2023. Bertelsmann said PRH, which had a challenging 2023, performed better than expected. Acquisitions played a particularly important part in boosting sales in the U.S. Its January 2024 purchase of Hay House added €73 million to sales last year. PRH paid €85 million for Hay House, of which €50 million was paid in cash with the balance being paid in four equal annual installments. Also during 2024, PRH acquired Boom! Studios and the publishing assets of Amber-Allen Publishing, while upping its stake in high-flying Sourcebooks to 75% from 53% in 2023.

Following the strong financial performance of Springer Nature released on 18 March, the company today issues its first annual report showing how Springer Nature is delivering on its mission to be part of progress. In 2024, research was made more visible for authors, more freely available and more trusted for all, with better value for money delivered for customers. Frank Vrancken Peeters, Chief Executive Officer of Springer Nature, said: “I am very proud of how we continue to deliver on our mission to be part of progress. We remain focused on serving our community by enabling millions of researchers, educators, learners and health professionals to, every day, access, trust and make sense of the latest insights and discoveries.” The annual report additionally sets out how it is supporting its wider communities around the world including: In the US, where Springer Nature continued its outreach activities bringing policymakers and scientists together as part of its annual Science on the Hill event which this year focused on the science and policy of space junk. In India, where the company undertook its second extensive research tour to over 24 research institutions to promote open access and support integrity.

Savvas Learning Company, a next-generation K-12 learning solutions leader, is excited to announce that its complete line of enVision K-12 math programs has been approved by the Virginia Board of Education for statewide adoption across all grade levels in Virginia classrooms. With a proven instructional design featuring problem-based learning, performance tasks, and visual instruction, enVision math programs give students multiple ways to learn and teachers robust resources to personalize learning. The Savvas high-quality instructional materials for Virginia that align to the state’s 2023 Mathematics Standards of Learning include: *enVision Mathematics Grades K-5 *enVision Mathematics Virginia Grades 6-8 *enVision A|G|A Virginia (Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2)

Robert M. “Mike” Duncan, one of the Governors of the United States Postal Service, today announced that he is resigning his position on the board of governors due to health reasons. His resignation is effective immediately. Duncan has served on the board since August 2018 and was chairman from September 2018 to February 2021. Duncan’s current term on the board was set to expire this December. A copy of his letter of resignation can be found here. “My fellow governors and I are grateful to Mike Duncan for his service to this Board and to the Postal Service,” said Amber McReynolds, chairwoman. “In 2018, Mike was tasked with reestablishing the Board’s governance and operations after it had gone more than a year without any presidentially appointed governors. His leadership and vision for the Postal Service have played a big role in our efforts to create long-term sustainability for this critical organization.” “Mike Duncan’s business and political acumen was a great asset to the Postal Service during a period of historic transformation,” said acting Postmaster General Doug Tulino. “He has been an important leader for the Board, and Postal Service leadership is happy to have had his counsel and insights during this critical time.”

As required by title 39 of the U.S. Code, today the Postal Regulatory Commission issued the FY 2024 Annual Compliance Determination assessing the Postal Service’s compliance with standards for service performance and legal requirements for rates. The Determination is based on an analysis of information provided by the Postal Service. The law requires the Commission to take action to address noncompliance by the Postal Service. The Commission finds that 19 out of 27 Market Dominant products or categories failed to meet their service performance targets and no category of First-Class Mail met its target in FY 2024. The Commission directs the Postal Service to take corrective action to improve service performance and increase transparency. For Competitive products as a whole, the Commission finds that total revenues were higher than cost coverage requirements, meeting the law’s prohibition against cross-subsidizing Competitive products. The Commission also finds that some Market Dominant mail classes and products failed to cover their costs, while multiple Competitive products did not cover their costs. For individual products and classes that lost money in FY 2024, the Commission directs the Postal Service to take action to ensure that these products comply with the law by covering their costs.

Total revenues across all categories for January 2025 were down 0.7% as compared to January 2024, coming in at $1.2 billion. Trade (Consumer Books) revenues were down 0.3% in January at $741.5 million. In terms of physical format revenues during the month of January, in the Trade (Consumer Books) category, Hardback revenues were up 0.1%, coming in at $267.5 million; Paperbacks were down 4.3%, with $254.6 million in revenue; Mass Market was down 16.7% to $11.2 million; and Special Bindings were up 18.8%, with $19.9 million in revenue. In terms of digital formats, eBook revenues were up 0.9% for the month as compared to January 2024 for a total of $78.5 million, and the Digital Audio format was up 6.1% for January, coming in at $85.1 million in revenue. Physical Audio was down 2.5%, coming in at $600 thousand.

A federal court has denied motions by OpenAI and Microsoft to dismiss the copyright infringement case brought against them last year by eight newspapers owned by MediaNewsGroup and Tribune Publishing, and by the Center For Investigative Reporting. U.S. District Judge Sidney H. Stein said he will issue an opinion later on the reasons for his decision. But for now, Stein said he denies: OpenAI's motions to dismiss the direct infringement claims involving conduct occurring more than three years before the complaints were filed; The defendants' motions to dismiss the contributory copyright infringement claims; and The defendants' motions to dismiss the state and federal trademark dilution claims in the Daily News action.

“After nearly five years as America’s 75th Postmaster General, and after informing the Governors in February of my intention to retire, I have today informed the Postal Service Board of Governors that today will be my last day in this role. I believe strongly that the organization is well positioned and capable of carrying forward and fully implementing the many strategies and initiatives that comprise our transformation and modernization, and I have been working closely with the Deputy Postmaster General to prepare for this transition. While our management team and the men and women of the Postal Service have established the path toward financial sustainability and high operating performance – and we have instituted enormous beneficial change to what had been an adrift and moribund organization – much work remains that is necessary to sustain our positive trajectory. I am confident that Doug will continue our positive momentum during the period when the Governors undertake the important work of identifying and selecting the next Postmaster General. I also have no doubt that the entirety of the Postal Service will aggressively shape its future and become more efficient, capable, and competitive as it continuously changes and improves to best serve the American public. It is with great pride that I pass the baton to Deputy Postmaster General, Doug Tulino, until the Governors name my permanent successor. The Governors have hired a search firm in support of those efforts, which are well underway. I shall cheer on America’s 76th Postmaster General and the 640,000 men and women of the United States Postal Service who I have called my colleagues and friends for close to five years. It has been one of the pleasures of my life and a crowning achievement of my career to have been associated with this cherished institution, the United States Postal Service.”

Savvas Learning Company, a next-generation K-12 learning solutions leader, is excited to introduce Experience Science, a brand-new program for grades K-8 that brings science concepts to life through real-world phenomena and hands-on explorations, empowering students to learn science by doing science. Experience Science offers a highly flexible, standards-aligned curriculum with interactive resources that make science engaging and accessible for all learners. The program also makes teaching science easier, with robust planning support and grab-and-go materials that enable teachers to fit science instruction into their day. The streamlined curriculum, which was developed in collaboration with educators, is adaptable to any classroom setting and offers math and literacy skills support and differentiated instruction so all learners can be successful.

RTL Deutschland is reorganizing its publishing business, and selling the Gruner + Jahr brands “Brigitte,” “Gala” and “Eltern” to Funke Mediengruppe as part of the reorganization. The titles are synonymous with high-quality journalistic content and high brand recognition in the German media market. The brands’ approximately 300 employees will be taken over by Funke Mediengruppe with their existing employment contracts. The sale is subject to approval by the relevant antitrust authorities. The move marks another step in RTL Deutschland’s systematic pursuit of its “Best Owner” philosophy. Funke is one of the leading publishing groups in the German-speaking territories, with a clear focus on print and publishing – an environment in which “Brigitte,” “Gala,” and “Eltern” can best continue their future development. At the same time, securing jobs long-term remains a key objective of the transaction. The other journalistic brands from the Gruner + Jahr portfolio will be tied in even closer to RTL Deutschland’s content business: The brands “Geolino,” “Geolino mini,” and “Art” will in future be bundled into the Stern+ journalistic suite under the supervision of Gregor Peter Schmitz at RTL News, while the “Schöner Wohnen,” “Couch,” and “Häuser” brands will from now on be managed as part of the RTL Consumer Products division under the supervision of Thorsten Braun, with a view to further enhancing their strong growth in the furniture and furnishings sector.

"The FedEx team delivered improved profitability, while navigating a very challenging operating environment, including a compressed Peak season and severe weather events,” said Raj Subramaniam, FedEx Corp. president and chief executive officer. “I am proud of the team for executing on our transformation efforts while strengthening our value proposition and improving the customer experience. Looking ahead, we remain focused on supporting our customers amid the shifting macroeconomic environment.” Consolidated operating results improved due to cost reduction benefits from DRIVE program initiatives, higher base yield at each transportation segment, and higher volume at Federal Express. Federal Express segment operating results improved during the quarter, driven by cost reduction benefits from DRIVE, higher base yield, and increased U.S. and international export volume. These factors were partially offset by higher wage and purchased transportation rates, as well as the expiration of the U.S. Postal Service contract. FedEx Freight segment operating results decreased during the quarter due to lower fuel surcharges, reduced weight per shipment, and fewer shipments, partially offset by higher base yield. The quarter’s results include a net tax benefit of $46 million ($0.19 per diluted share), primarily from corporate entity structure changes and revisions of prior year estimates for actual tax return results.

The United States Postal Service is implementing refinements to service standards and has launched new online tools and a fact sheet to help customers prepare for the changes. These adjustments will affect First-Class Mail, Periodicals, Marketing Mail, Package Services (including Bound Printed Matter, Media Mail, and Library Mail), USPS Ground Advantage, Priority Mail, and Priority Mail Express. The enhancements are estimated to save the Postal Service at least $36 billion over the next decade through reductions in transportation, mail and package processing and real estate costs. The service standards refinement will occur in two phases to ensure effective operational implementation: the first phase will begin April 1. The second phase will start July 1. These newly enhanced service standards align with the Postal Service’s operational goals and enable the organization to realize the projected savings while also: *Preserving the current service standard day ranges for First-Class Mail and USPS Ground Advantage, thus ensuring the standard First-Class Mail delivery time will not exceed 5 days. *Enhancing service predictability and reliability. *Offering 2-3-day turnaround service within regions and specific local areas. *Allowing flexibility in regional transportation schedules, which may extend service expectations by one day for mail collected at certain Post Offices, while overall improving delivery speeds for mail and packages between regions.

The U.S. Postal Service is drawing fire for its plan to change the way it counts the days following entry of newspapers and other publications into the system on Saturdays. One harsh comment was submitted by the News/Media Alliance. “The proposed non-count of Sundays/holidays for mail entered on the proceeding Saturday (or the day before a holiday) would delay a substantial proportion of Periodicals mail,” NMA states in comments submitted to the Postal Regulatory Commission. “ In particular, some 19.1% of Origin-Entered Periodicals currently have a Saturday Start-the-Clock before a Sunday or a holiday.” Indeed, NMA adds: “Most of these Periodicals can expect actual delivery to be delayed by at least one to two more days.”

PIA has announced the selection of Paul Hudson, President, CEO and owner of Hudson Printing in Salt Lake City, Utah, as the PIA 2025 Executive of the Year. A pioneer in digital printing, workflow automation and process optimization, Paul has consistently pushed the boundaries to make print more accessible, efficient, impactful and relevant to today’s marketplace. “Paul was chosen for this honor,” says Amy Miller, Chair of PIA’s Public Relations Committee, which is responsible for selecting the Executive of the Year, “because of the way that he represents the industry at home and abroad by forging ahead with technological innovation while modeling a commitment to sustainability.” How did Paul get to this point? Well, you might say that print is in Paul’s blood. When he was a child, Paul’s father owned and ran the 100-year-old company that eventually became Hudson Printing. Growing up around the print shop, Paul spent countless hours with his father, developing a deep appreciation for the craft.

Postmaster General Louis DeJoy signed an agreement with the Elon Musk-based Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and the General Services Administration (GSA) last week to help it find more cost-saving efficiencies and eradicate waste. At the same time, he called for the abolishment of the Postal Regulatory Commission, which provides oversight, and indicated the U.S. Postal Service would be reducing its workforce by 10,000 workers within the next 30 days through its voluntary early retirement program. Despite DeJoy’s earlier announcement that he intends to depart the U.S Postal Service — the 250-year-old agency that was first led by Benjamin Franklin — DeJoy continues to push his 10-year “Delivering for America” turnaround plan that he first unveiled in 2021. The plan has focused on reinventing what he calls a financially unsustainable, broken USPS business model (including a $9.5 billion loss in its most recent fiscal year) and a greater focus on package delivery. At the same time, he has sought frequent postal rate hikes in combination with slower mail delivery service standards.

Thomas Rabe, Chief Executive Officer of RTL Group, says: “RTL Group once again demonstrated resilience in 2024. Despite challenging market conditions in the second half of the year, our results were in line with the guidance we provided at the beginning of 2024. More importantly, we reached turning points in our streaming services and content production business. As a result, we expect to significantly increase our operating profits in the coming years. Our streaming services continued to grow dynamically and significantly reduced their start-up losses in 2024. We are firmly on track to reach profitability by 2026. We have continued to strengthen our global content business, Fremantle. Thanks to a significant reduction of overheads and the contribution from Asacha Media Group – acquired in 2024 – Fremantle reached a record result and significantly improved its Adjusted EBITA margin. We plan to increase Fremantle’s margin to 9 per cent by 2026. Our strong results and cash flows enable us to pay an attractive dividend of €2.50 per share to our shareholders.” In 2024, RTL Deutschland’s combined audience share in the main commercial target group of viewers aged 14 to 59 decreased to 26.3 per cent (2023: 27.4 per cent). However, RTL Deutschland extended the lead over its main commercial competitor ProSiebenSat1 to 6.3 percentage points – the biggest lead in over 10 years (2023: lead of 5.8 percentage points). The flagship channel RTL was the only major commercial channel in Germany to gain audience share, with 9.6 per cent in the target group of viewers aged 14 to 59 (2023: 9.4 per cent).

At Adobe Summit – the flagship digital experience conference – Adobe unveiled a suite of product innovations that drive Customer Experience Orchestration (CXO) in the era of Artificial Intelligence (AI). CXO is the evolution of Customer Experience Management, fulfilling the promise of personalization at scale by combining the creation and development of seamless and connected customer experiences across all touchpoints and channels, with advancements in generative and agentic AI. Adobe’s innovations are powered by Adobe’s AI Platform, which unites AI agents and models across Adobe. This includes AI agents from third-party ecosystems, commercially safe Firefly models and secure third-party models, and first-party data insights—infused into Adobe applications. This comes to life in Adobe Experience Platform, which brings together customer experience data, CX language models and AI Agent orchestration. Adobe is unifying marketing and creativity through its AI platform to deliver personalized experiences at scale.

Springer Nature, one of the leading publishers of research in the world, today announced its results for the financial year 2024, demonstrating continued growth and a strong operational performance. Revenue was €1,847 million, representing, on an underlying1 basis, a 5% increase over the same period in 2023. Adjusted operating profit increased to €512 million, equating to underlying growth1 of 7%. Frank Vrancken Peeters, CEO of Springer Nature, said: “Our strong results demonstrate our ability to consistently deliver value for our communities while driving innovation in the academic publishing industry. We publish an ever-increasing amount of high-quality open access content and invest in technology and people to ensure we consistently outperform the market while growing responsibly and sustainably.” The Research segment continues to be the main driver of Springer Nature's growth. Research saw a 6% underlying3 revenue growth to €1,414 million, primarily due to the excellent performance of the OA Journals portfolio. The Education segment supported overall growth, with revenue increasing 3% on an underlying3 basis to €235 million. This was driven by a strong performance in India and South Africa. The Health segment’s revenue was €188 million, which was broadly stable on an underlying3 basis compared to the previous year.

The Association of American Publishers responded to a request for information from the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) on development of the Administration’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) Action Plan. AAP’s submission calls on the Administration to prioritize copyright protections, promote partnerships between American companies, embrace and encourage licensing, reject bloated fair use arguments and other sweeping exceptions that would unjustly enrich tech companies at the expense of authors and publishers, denounce the use of pirate sites in AI training, and work with Congress to prioritize transparency requirements. “The United States is an unmatched leader in both technology and intellectual property, both of which are key to global AI markets,” commented Maria A. Pallante, President and CEO, Association of American Publishers. “We thank the White House for the opportunity to inform its action plan and look forward to working with all parts of the Administration to ensure that authors, publishers, and all creative sectors are protected and positioned to partner with AI developers to achieve the extraordinary benefits of AI for the long term, in safe and lawful fashion. Among our priorities is stopping the proliferation of pirate sites that are a scourge on American IP investments and an illegal source of AI development.”

Ulta Beauty Inc. reported modest gains in comparable sales in earnings for its fiscal Q4 and full year ended Feb. 1, 2025, reflecting a year marked by cautious consumer spending. Including ecommerce, Ulta Beauty comparable sales rose 1.5% in Q4. This was down from 2.5% growth during the same quarter a year before. Despite the slowdown, Ulta reported growth across both store and digital channels. On the retailer’s March 13 earnings call, chief financial officer Paula Oyibo said ecommerce sales in Q4 grew in the mid-single-digit range. However, the company did not share specific figures.

The Postmaster General’s statements about the Postal Regulatory Commission’s role during the recent mismanagement of USPS are false. The Commission follows the law to ensure that USPS provides universal service to all Americans, including those in rural and remote locations, and also safeguards fair competition in package markets by preventing the Postal Service from abusing its monopoly position. The price cap the Postmaster General has complained about for years was established by law, not by the Commission. Once the Commission had the legal authority to change the price cap, the Commission gave USPS significantly more pricing freedom. Combined with the 2022 law passed by Congress, the Postal Service received over $100 billion in financial assistance. So far, the Delivering for America Plan (DFA) has wasted that help, losing more money for the Postal Service (a $9.5 billion loss in FY 2024), making USPS less efficient, and collapsing service, especially for rural Americans. On April 1, USPS is planning to amplify that negative impact on rural areas by deliberately slowing mail to thousands of rural communities nationwide. The Postmaster General has also tried to ignore USPS’ traditional role in mail delivery while expanding the role of the government in the competitive package market, a strategy which has failed miserably to this point. DFA’s failures have received bipartisan scorn and are documented at www.prc.gov. DFA needs transparency and accountability. The Commission has done more than its part to help USPS. In addition to pricing flexibility, the Commission, as required by law, has approved thousands of specialized contracts between USPS and customers in recent years. The Commission approved these negotiated service agreements rapidly, while working to make sure USPS does not compete unfairly with private sector shipping competitors. The Commission has done this work along with its other statutory responsibilities with fewer than 100 staff members.

“Adobe’s success over the next decade will be driven by customer-focused innovation and new offerings for creators, marketing professionals, business professionals and consumers,” said Shantanu Narayen, chair and CEO, Adobe. “Adobe is well-positioned to capitalize on the acceleration of the creative economy driven by AI and we are reaffirming our FY2025 financial targets.” “Our continued innovation and diversified go-to-market strategy drove a record Q1, with new AI-first standalone and add-on innovations exiting the quarter with over $125 million ending ARR book of business,” said Dan Durn, executive vice president and CFO, Adobe. “Our customer- focused strategy, leading product portfolio and strong cash flow position us for sustainable long-term growth and increased market share.”

The Postal Service has one of largest fleets in the world, with more than 246,000 vehicles that drive more than a billion miles every year, delivering mail to more than 169 million delivery points across the nation. Safe driving is a paramount part of our duties as we are Delivering for America. As part of a safe driving public awareness campaign, the Postal Service is reminding customers of the importance of staying vigilant when maneuvering near postal vehicles. “Postal Service employees drive our nation’s roads every day, providing a vital service, to deliver America’s mail safely. It is something we strive to do 365 days a year,” said USPS Employee Safety and Health Awareness Manager Leeann Theriault. “We encourage the public to stay alert when around postal vehicles, and together, we can protect our drivers and everyone else on the road. This will reduce risks and ensure that everyone, including our employees, make it home safe.”

From the London Book Fair, Wiley announced it will provide access to a curated collection of Earth science research materials to help enhance the training and capabilities of the European Space Agency's Earth Virtual Expert (EVE). Wiley signed an agreement with Pi School, which is leading the development of the EVE project for ESA's Φ-lab. EVE is a fine-tuned large language model designed to transform how researchers and the public access and engage with Earth Observation and Earth science research and information. The EVE project, developed by Pi School with support from Imperative Space, is creating an innovative virtual expert capable of answering queries about Earth Observation and Earth science in natural language. Pi School's mission is to empower businesses and individuals by delivering cutting-edge AI solutions tailored to real-world challenges.

Best Buy’s sales growth online outpaced growth at stores as the retail chain reported a 0.5% boost in comparable sales for its fiscal Q4 2025, which ended Feb. 1. The company credited strong demand for computing, tablets and services. Meanwhile, Best Buy U.S. online sales in Q4 climbed 2.6% year-over-year, with ecommerce accounting for 39.5% of total revenue, up from 38% last year. “In our digital business, our focus on personalization and speed resulted in app engagement and sales growth,” CEO Corie Barry said during the company’s March 4 earnings call.

Lee Enterprises, the victim of a cyberattack and system outage on February 3, says it has contained the threat and is working with security vendors to restore automation to its business processes. “Currently all products are being produced and distributed, although some limitations remain including limited depth of products due to tightened schedules,” the company says in an SEC filing. “Additionally, certain back-office functions remain delayed including billing our clients, collections, and payments to vendors.” The company expects normal processes to be restored in the coming weeks. Lee publishes over 70 news products throughout the country.

Gannett Co., Inc. announced it has prepaid approximately $57.5 million on its five-year first lien term loan facility. As a result of this prepayment, the Company has reduced its first lien debt from $850.0 million to $792.5 million during the first quarter of 2025. The debt repayment was funded with the proceeds from the sale of the Austin-American Statesmen that was completed on February 28, 2025, as well as cash on hand. "As part of our long-term strategy, debt repayment remains a high priority, and we continue to make measurable progress, while also maintaining a healthy balance sheet and a strong liquidity position," said Michael Reed, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.

Costco Wholesale Corporation announced its operating results for the second quarter (twelve weeks) and the first 24 weeks of fiscal 2025, ended February 16, 2025. Net sales for the quarter increased 9.1 percent, to $62.53 billion, from $57.33 billion last year. Net sales for the first 24 weeks increased 8.3 percent, to $123.52 billion, from $114.05 billion last year. Net income for the quarter was $1,788 million, $4.02 per diluted share, compared to $1,743 million, $3.92 per diluted share, last year. For the four-week reporting month of February, ended March 2, 2025, the Company reported net sales of $19.81 billion, an increase of 8.8 percent from $18.21 billion last year. Net sales for the first 26 weeks were $133.36 billion, an increase of 8.3 percent from $123.15 billion last year.

*Third quarter reported revenue of $405 million vs. $461 million due to foregone revenue from divested businesses *Third quarter Operating Income $52 million vs. ($46 million) *Year-to-date Operating Income of $145 million vs. ($17 million) “We continue to deliver disciplined growth and material margin expansion as we capitalize on the global demand for scientific research and responsible AI model development,” said Matthew Kissner, Wiley President and CEO. “Our recurring revenue Research business has not only proven to be resilient across economic cycles but poised for continued expansion; our authoritative content and data-driven insights are increasingly coveted by corporations for their research and development initiatives, including AI enablement; and our strong execution and cost re-engineering efforts continue to deliver tangible results, with significant margin and cash flow improvement this year and raised margin expectations for Fiscal 2026.”

It’s been a busy 48 hours as President Trump has issued, and in some cases temporarily delayed sweeping tariffs which had spurred retaliation from the affected countries. On Wednesday, March 5, Trump announced he would grant a one-month delay for any tariffs on imported vehicles from Canada and Mexico that comply with the terms of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), a trade agreement Trump signed with the other two countries in July 2020 during his first presidential term. Trump followed that decision up with executive orders on Thursday, March 6 that exempt all Canadian and Mexican imports which fall under the USMCA from the 25% tariff until Wednesday, April 2. According to a statement from the White House to CNBC, roughly 50% of Mexican imports and 38% of Canadian imports fall under USMCA.

Hearst Newspapers announced the launch of a multi-market advertising initiative that showcases the power of its journalism and its advances in digital storytelling. The campaign, which begins with two of Hearst’s leading news brands — the San Francisco Chronicle and Houston Chronicle — will expand to additional markets in the coming months. The effort was created in partnership with PMG, which was recently named Hearst’s creative and media agency of record. Titled “There’s More with the Chronicle,” the initiative highlights the wide-ranging coverage and digital innovations that connect readers to the issues that shape their communities and to the wider world. The campaign is part of a previously announced multimillion-dollar, multi-platform investment in brand building across Hearst’s businesses and is a key component of the company’s broader investment in its newspaper business, alongside its recent announcement to acquire the Austin American-Statesman. “We are committed to high-quality journalism and growing readership in the digital era,” said Jeff Johnson, president, Hearst Newspapers.

“As we close out the first year of the Bold New Chapter strategy, investments in the customer experience enabled us to achieve our highest comparable sales of the year, our best performance in 11 quarters,” said Tony Spring, chairman and chief executive officer of Macy’s, Inc. “At Macy’s, our First 50 locations delivered four quarters of increased sales, while our luxury nameplates, Bloomingdale’s and Bluemercury, achieved accelerated annual sales growth. As we enter the second year of our strategy, we plan to scale initiatives that are resonating with our customers to drive long-term profitable growth and further unlock shareholder value.” Macy’s, Inc. net sales decreased 4.3% to $7.8 billion, with comparable sales down 1.1% on an owned basis and up 0.2% on an owned-plus-licensed-plus-marketplace basis. Comparable owned-plus-licensed-plus-marketplace sales growth at Macy’s First 50 locations, Macy’s digital channel, Bloomingdale’s, and Bluemercury was offset primarily by weakness in Macy’s non-First 50 and non-go-forward locations. Macy’s, Inc. go-forward business2 comparable sales were down 0.7% on an owned basis and up 0.6% on an owned-plus-licensed-plus-marketplace basis.

Walkouts were averted at six Gannett titles in New Jersey and New York when employees and the firm agreed on “ life-changing” increases in pay and job protections. A vote on ratification was scheduled for Thursday. The publications include the Asbury Park Press, Courier News, Home News Tribune, the Journal News, Poughkeepsie Journal and Times Herald-Record. The Jersey staffers were represented by the APP-MCJ Guild and the New York State employees by the Hudson Valley NewsGuild.

President Donald Trump’s 25% tariffs on goods from Mexico and Canada, as well as a 10% increase to tariffs on goods from China, went into effect on March 4—and although the tariffs had been delayed once before, the publishing and printing industries are still left with more questions than answers as they look for ways to navigate the new levies. While American publishers will now face higher costs, printers in the United States hope that the tariffs will lead to more business. While the amount of printing done in Canada and Mexico is far less than in China, the new tariffs on those two nations present other challenges. For one thing, the U.S. imported $1.82 billion of uncoated paper, some of which is used in books, in 2023, according to government statistics, with 67% of that paper coming from Canada.

Total revenues across all categories year-to-date were up 6.5%, reaching $14.2 billion. Revenues for the month of December 2024 were down 4.3% as compared to December 2023, coming in at $904.6 million. Trade revenues were up 6.0%, at $9.5 billion on a year-to-date basis. Hardback revenues were up 6.8%, coming in at $3.5 billion; Paperbacks were up 3.0%, with $3.2 billion in revenue; Mass Market was down 13.3% to $122.9 million; and Special Bindings were up 4.3%, with $231.7 million in revenue. eBook revenues were up 1.6% as compared to 2023 for a total of $1.0 billion. The Digital Audio format was up 23.8%, coming in at $1.1 billion in revenue. Physical Audio was down 37.4% coming in at $8.7 million.

Urban Outfitters’ net sales increased 10.1% to a company-record $1.6 billion for its fiscal Q4, which ended on Jan. 31, delivering a new milestone for the company’s rental business Nuuly. The record quarter was part of a record year for the Philadelphia-based retailer. It saw total company net sales increase 7.7% to $5.6 billion. During its earnings call, Frank Conforti, the co-president and chief operating officer at Urban Outfitters, credited success to the Anthropologie, Free People, FP Movement and Nuuly brands. Of those brands, Nuuly also distinguished itself by becoming profitable for the retailer’s full fiscal year. “The strong revenue growth in the fourth quarter resulted in expense rate leverage in almost every expense line item, which helped deliver a record fourth quarter operating profit and another Nuuly first, its first full year of profitability,” he stated.

For the fiscal year ended February 1, 2025, net earnings were $294 million and EPS was $1.74, with EBIT of $495 million, or 3.4 percent of sales. Excluding charges related primarily to a supply chain asset impairment in the second quarter, accelerated technology depreciation in the third and fourth quarters, and privatization fees in the fourth quarter, adjusted EBIT was $593 million, or 4.1 percent of sales, and adjusted EPS was $2.17 for fiscal 2024.1 For the 13-week fourth quarter in fiscal 2024, total Company net sales decreased 2.1 percent versus the 14-week period in fiscal 2023, or increased 2.5 percent excluding approximately $190 million related to the 53rd week in fiscal 2023. Total Company gross merchandise value ("GMV") decreased 0.2 percent. Nordstrom banner net sales decreased 3.7 percent and GMV decreased 1.0 percent compared with the fourth quarter of 2023. Net sales for Nordstrom Rack increased 1.2 percent.2 "Customers responded positively to the strength of our offering across both banners in the fourth quarter," said Erik Nordstrom, chief executive officer of Nordstrom, Inc. "We maintained the momentum we built throughout the year, which resulted in full-year sales and profitability coming in at the high end of our expectations."

U.S. ecommerce sales and penetration of total sales reached new peaks in 2024, according to Digital Commerce 360 analysis of U.S. Department of Commerce data. Ecommerce penetration — or the percentage of total U.S. retail sales that are completed online — has grown every year but one since the Commerce Department began tracking this data in 2000. In 2022, ecommerce penetration was 20.7%, a slight dip compared to 20.8% in 2021. As such, ecommerce penetration reached a record 22.7% in 2024. Ecommerce has accounted for at least a fifth of U.S. retail sales every year since 2020.

Most local newsrooms are cutting back their print schedules, or even eliminating them. Kentucky’s Owensboro Times is going in the opposite direction. The hyper-local digital news source is launching a quarterly print product that will hit mailboxes in Daviess County for free. The decision is based, in part, on a local regulatory issue. In an unsigned opinion column, the paper states that “outdated language in Kentucky law dictates that only print newspapers qualify as the official ‘newspaper of record.’ This designation is critical because it determines which publications can carry public notices, legal announcements, and other official records.”

Dockworkers on the East and Gulf coasts overwhelmingly approved a six-year contract Tuesday, averting the threat of a strike that could have crippled the economy. The yes vote was expected after the leadership of the International Longshoremen’s Association union reached a tentative contract agreement in January with the U.S. Maritime Alliance of ports and shipping companies. The alliance approved the contract last month, and on Tuesday rank-and-file members voted for it with nearly 99% in favor, the union said in a statement. The contract calls for a 62% pay hike over six years that would lift hourly wages at the top of the union pay scale from $39 an hour to $63 an hour. ILA President Harold Daggett, who served as the union’s chief negotiator, was quoted in the statement as saying the agreement is “the ‘gold standard’ for dockworker unions globally.”

The United States Postal Service announced refined service standards for certain market-dominant services. This includes service standard adjustments for First-Class Mail, Periodicals, Marketing Mail, and Package Services (Bound Printed Matter, Media Mail, and Library Mail). The changes will maintain service at existing levels for most volume and upgrade standards for more market-dominant volume than is downgraded. The changes will enhance service reliability nationwide while maintaining the existing five-day service standard day range for First-Class Mail, whereas the day ranges for end-to-end Marketing Mail, Periodicals and Package Services will be shortened. Similar changes will be made with respect to the Postal Service’s competitive products. As a result of these refined service standards, the Postal Service projects at least $36 billion in savings over 10 years from transportation, mail processing, and real estate cost reductions. As part of the ongoing “Delivering for America” plan, the Postal Service has to date lowered $1.8 billion in annual transportation costs by eliminating redundant networks and rationalizing the use of air and surface options, and reduced 45 million workhours, or $2.3 billion annually, by improving plant productivity, and eliminating unnecessary facilities. In addition, the Postal Service has increased revenue by $3.5 billion annually while transitioning its product offerings in the face of significant declines in mail volume.

As is typical in Q4, U.S. ecommerce sales — and total retail sales, for that matter — hit a quarterly high, according to Digital Commerce 360 analysis of U.S. Department of Commerce data. U.S. ecommerce sales grew at more than 6x the rate of total sales. As such, Q4 2024 marks the seventh consecutive quarter that U.S. ecommerce sales growth was at least double the rate of total sales growth. It also marks the 10th consecutive quarter that ecommerce growth outpaces total growth. Prior to that, Q2 2021 through Q2 2022 saw U.S. year-over-year total sales growth outpace ecommerce sales when COVID-19 pandemic restrictions loosened.

Walmart Inc. announces fourth-quarter results with strong growth in revenue and operating income. Globally, eCommerce grew 16% with penetration up across all segments. Walmart U.S. comp sales up 4.6%2 with positive growth in general merchandise. Looking ahead, the Company issues guidance for FY26 with net sales expected to grow 3% to 4% and adjusted operating income in constant currency (“cc”)1 to grow 3.5% to 5.5%, including a headwind of 150 basis points from the acquisition of VIZIO Holding Corp. (“VIZIO”) and lapping leap year. "Our team finished the year with another quarter of strong results. We have momentum driven by our low prices, a growing assortment, and an eCommerce business driven by faster delivery times. We’re gaining market share, our top line is healthy, and we’re in great shape with inventory. We’ll stay focused on growth, improving operating margins, and strengthening ROI as we invest to serve our customers and members even better.” Doug McMillon President and CEO, Walmart

"In 2024, we made continued strong progress executing on our strategy to advance our digital transformation, resulting in total digital revenues exceeding 45% of total revenues in the fourth quarter, and amounting to over $1.1 billion for the year. Equally important, we expanded our audience, improved engagement, and grew digital revenues through diversified channels. Total 2024 digital revenues increased by over 5% compared to 2023," said Michael Reed, Gannett Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. "The successful execution of our strategy has driven continued improvement across our key financial metrics. In 2024, we delivered full-year growth in both Adjusted EBITDA and free cash flow, while driving improvement to our bottom line. We also remained focused on enhancing our capital structure in 2024, which was evidenced by repaying $73.5 million of debt in addition to repayments made in connection with the completion of our comprehensive refinancing that extended our debt maturities and significantly reduced potential future dilution from our convertible notes."

The Postal Service provided a pointed response to the Postal Regulatory Commission’s (PRC) recently published Advisory Opinion on the organization’s proposed service standard changes: PRC Docket No. N2024-1, captioned “Operational and Service Standards to Meet Statutory Requirements for Reliable, Efficient High-Quality Service and Financial Sustainability Through an Integrated Mail and Package Network”. An excerpt of the response cover letter from Postmaster General Louis DeJoy to PRC Chairman, Michael Kubayanda follows: “I must say that I was confounded by the Commission’s dismissal of cost savings of nearly $4 billion a year as “meager”, while characterizing service standard changes that are carefully designed and modest in impact within the current service standard day ranges as a “severe degradation” in service that must be avoided at all costs.

The United States Postal Service is today announcing that Louis DeJoy, America’s 75th Postmaster General, has notified the Postal Service Board of Governors that it is time for them to begin the process of identifying his successor. The Governors of the Postal Service, working with key stakeholders, will now begin the process of identifying an appropriate candidate to serve as the next Postmaster General and Chief Executive Officer of the United States Postal Service. Postmaster General’s letter to the Board of Governors: “Louis DeJoy has steadfastly served the nation and the Postal Service over the past five years,” said Amber McReynolds, chairwoman of the Board of Governors. “The Governors greatly appreciate his enduring leadership and his tireless efforts to modernize the Postal Service and reverse decades of neglect.” She added that “Louis is a fighter, and he has fought hard for the women and men of the Postal Service and to ensure that the American people have reliable and affordable service for years to come.” DeJoy stated, “While there remains much critical work to be done to ensure that the Postal Service can be financially viable as we continue to serve the nation in our essential public service mission, I have decided it is time to start the process of identifying my successor and of preparing the Postal Service for this change. The major initiatives we are currently endeavoring are multi-year programs and it is important to have leadership in place whose tenure will span this future period. After four and half years leading one of America’s greatest public institutions through dramatic change during unusual times, it is time for me to start thinking about the next phase of my life, while also ensuring that the Postal Service is fully prepared for the future."

The annual circulation figures for 26 brands within Bauer Media Group’s UK Publishing business shows that they remain a valued source of content for readers across the country with significant print sales. At the same time, many of our brands continue to expand and diversify their digital presence. Commenting on the results, Helen Morris, Co-CEO, UK Publishing said: “These results once again demonstrate the enduring impact and longevity of our brands as millions of people across the country continue to invest their time and money in our printed products and digital offerings. The success of our brands is only made possible by the relentless commitment of all our teams to develop highly engaging and creative content across a variety of formats. We’re extremely grateful to everyone across Bauer for their invaluable contributions.”

Lee Enterprises admits that its business has been affected by a cyber attack. “The incident impacted the Company’s operations, including distribution of products, billing, collections, and vendor payments,” the firm says in an SEC filing. It adds, “Distribution of print publications across our portfolio of products experienced delays, and online operations were partially limited.”

A group of independent publishers has formally incorporated as the Publishers Cooperative, a new organization aimed at leveraging collective buying power and sharing resources. The cooperative, which received its articles of incorporation this year, is currently seeking seven additional mid-sized publishers to join its eight founding members: AdventureKEEN, C&T Publishing, Gibbs-Smith, Mango Publishing, Mixed Media Resources, Mountaineers Books, Schiffer Publishing, and Ulysses Press. Membership will require publishers to meet certain scale requirements, to maintain the group's collective buying power. Amy Barrett-Daffin, publisher at C&T Publishing, said that the organization began informally in 2021, when several publishers started meeting monthly to discuss industry challenges. The founding members—Brad Farmer of Gibbs-Smith, Pete Schiffer of Schiffer Publishing, Tom Helleberg of Mountaineers Books, and Barrett-Daffin—“would try to meet monthly, and we were just sort of talking through what's working, what's not working," she said, adding that the organization's mission is "to increase profitability, to raise all boats for the co-op."

Savvas Learning Company, a next-generation K-12 learning solutions leader, announced exciting summer learning solutions to support school districts in accelerating student learning in math and literacy. Savvas Summer Impact solutions offer ready-to-use instructional materials, combined with adaptive assessments and personalized learning programs, that provide summer-specific, standards-aligned curriculum to help students master grade-level instructional priorities in math (for grade K–Algebra 1) and literacy/ELA (for grades K–8). “Whether the goals of their summer learning programs include bringing students up to grade level, reenergizing learning, or preventing the summer slide, school districts are looking for high-quality instructional materials that are easy to use and maximize valuable teaching time,” said Bethlam Forsa, CEO of Savvas Learning Company.

The Role of Print in Learning and Education goes beyond just providing information—it enhances cognitive retention, balances screen time, and fosters a focused academic environment. Unlike digital devices that contribute to digital exhaustion, print offers a tactile and immersive experience, helping students better process and retain information. By minimizing distractions and providing a well-rounded approach to education, print remains an essential tool for effective learning.

Adobe released the new Firefly application, the most comprehensive destination to generate images, vectors and now videos with the Firefly Video Model in public beta. The Firefly app is the all-in-one professional destination that inspires users to seamlessly ideate and create production quality work with unparalleled creative control, multi-modal workflows and integration with industry-leading Creative Cloud applications. The new Firefly Video Model— the industry’s first commercially safe AI video generation model — powers Generate Video (beta) in the Firefly application, as well as Generative Extend (beta) in Adobe Premiere Pro, and generates IP-friendly video content that can be used in production today. It is the latest offering in the Firefly family of creative generative AI models, which has been used to generate over 18 billion assets globally. Adobe introduced two new offerings — Firefly Standard and Firefly Pro — that give customers access to premium Firefly video and audio features. All Firefly plans include unlimited access to Firefly imaging and vector features and tiered capacity for premium video and audio features so customers can choose the right capacity for their generative AI needs.

In what appears to be a first, a federal judge has found that an artificial intelligence company infringed copyright by training its service on material it didn't own. The ruling, issued Tuesday by Judge Stephanos Bibas in Delaware federal court, comes in a battle between two companies that sell legal research tools -- Thomson Reuters' Westlaw and the competitor Ross Intelligence. Westlaw publishes court opinions, and also publishes “headnotes” to those opinions. Those headnotes provide short summaries of the key points in the opinion. Ross trained its rival legal research platform on those Westlaw headnotes, according to the court ruling.

The Company reported fourth quarter 2024 reported revenue of $3.592 billion, an increase of 14% compared to the fourth quarter of 2023. Fourth quarter GAAP net income increased 52% to $880 million and GAAP diluted earnings per share increased 56% to $2.85 driven primarily by strong Ratings growth. For the full year 2024, reported revenue increased 14% year over year to $14.208 billion. Excluding the impact of Engineering Solutions (divested in 2023), revenue growth would have been 15% year over year. 2024 GAAP net income increased 47% to $3.852 billion and GAAP diluted earnings per share increased 50% to $12.35, driven primarily by revenue and operating profit growth in the Company's Ratings division.

Costco Wholesale Corporation (“Costco” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: COST) today reported net sales of $19.51 billion for the retail month of January, the four weeks ended February 2, 2025, an increase of 9.2 percent from $17.87 billion last year. Net sales for the first 22 weeks were $113.55 billion, an increase of 8.2 percent from $104.94 billion last year.

Meredith Kopit Levien, president and chief executive officer, The New York Times Company, said, “The fourth quarter capped another strong year for The Times in which we made further progress toward becoming the essential subscription for every curious person seeking to understand and engage with the world. Our market-leading news and premium lifestyle products proved more valuable to more people in 2024. Deep engagement fueled our multi-revenue stream model, and enhanced our durability even in a dynamic information ecosystem. Altogether, this momentum gives us confidence that we can deliver another year of healthy growth in subscribers, revenue, and profitability, as well as strong free cash flow.” • Growth in both digital subscribers and ARPU drove a year-over-year increase in digital subscription revenues of 16.0 percent.• Digital advertising revenues increased 9.5 percent year-over-year largely as a result of higher revenues from direct-sold display advertising and programmatic advertising. • Other revenue increased 16.3 percent year-over-year as a result of higher Wirecutter affiliate referral and licensing revenues.

The Postal Regulatory Commission (Commission) issued an in-depth analysis of the Postal Service’s Delivering for America (DFA) initiatives proposing nationwide changes to mail service. While the Commission acknowledges the challenges the Postal Service faces are significant, and change is essential, the Commission finds the Postal Service is irreversibly changing its network without laying a foundation for success. First, the Postal Service’s plan depends on defective modeling and does not appear to be ready for implementation. Second, the Postal Service relies on overly optimistic and unsubstantiated financial projections for cost savings that are not likely to improve the financial health of the Postal Service. Third, the Postal Service’s proposal has significant negative impacts on rural communities throughout the United States.

Overall, I expect this to be another calendar year of dramatic change for the United States Postal Service as we continue to refine and execute our Delivering for America Plan. I remind everyone that the Delivering for America Plan is the only comprehensive plan in existence that attempts to transform the Postal Service and set us on a path for a viable future. To begin, I want to thank the dedicated men and women of the United States Postal Service for their efforts this past quarter, which included a presidential election, our usual peak season activities, as well as a number of hurricanes and storms. We continued to meet the challenge of the year’s peak surge in mail and package volume with expanded processing capabilities, optimized transportation strategies, and enhanced operational precision.

Commenting on the results, Chief Executive Robert Thomson said: “News Corp had a fruitful quarter, qualitatively and quantitatively. Revenues on a continuing operations basis, which excludes Foxtel, grew 5 percent to $2.24 billion, net income from continuing operations surged 58 percent to $306 million and Total Segment EBITDA rose 20 percent to $478 million. The three pillars of growth—Digital Real Estate, Dow Jones and Book Publishing—continued to expand Segment EBITDA robustly. We also saw the positive impact of rigorous cost discipline and digital development in the News Media segment, and our overall margin rose meaningfully compared to the prior year."

Fourth Quarter 2024 - Net sales increased 10% to $187.8 billion in the fourth quarter; Operating income increased to $21.2 billion in the fourth quarter; Net income increased to $20.0 billion in the fourth quarter. Full Year 2024 - Net sales increased 11% to $638.0 billion in 2024; Operating income increased to $68.6 billion in 2024; Net income increased to $59.2 billion in 2024. "The holiday shopping season was the most successful yet for Amazon and we appreciate the support of our customers, selling partners, and employees who helped make it so,” said Andy Jassy, President and CEO, Amazon. “When we look back on this quarter several years from now, I suspect what we’ll most remember is the remarkable innovation delivered across all of our businesses, none more so than in AWS where we introduced our new Trainium2 AI chip, our own foundation models in Amazon Nova, a plethora of new models and features in Amazon Bedrock that give customers flexibility and cost savings, liberating transformations in Amazon Q to migrate from old platforms, and the next edition of Amazon SageMaker to pull data, analytics, and AI together more concertedly. These benefits are often realized by customers (and the business) several months down the road, but these are substantial enablers in this emerging technology environment and we’re excited to see what customers build.”

The Association of American Publishers announced that its Directors have elected Brian Murray as Chair of the Board for the 2025-2026 term. Mr. Murray, who is President and CEO of HarperCollins Publishers, has been on the board since 2008. He was previously elected Chair in 2015, and served as an officer from 2014-2017. Additionally, Mr. Murray served on the executive committee of the International Publishers Association for AAP from 2011 to 2018. In 1970 HarperCollins Publishers, then known as Harper & Row, was a founding member of AAP. The Board also elected Tyrrell Mahoney, President of Chronicle Books, to the position of Vice Chair. Ms. Mahoney has served on the AAP Board since 2019. Jeremy North, Managing Director, Books, Taylor & Francis, who has served on the Board since 2015, was re-elected as Treasurer. YS Chi, Chairman of Elsevier, and Director of Corporate Affairs for the RELX Group, will remain an officer as Immediate Past Chair.

Savvas Learning Company, a next-generation K-12 learning solutions leader, is excited to announce that Savvas CTE, its offering of online career and technical education (CTE) and certification prep courses, has won the Tech & Learning Best of 2024 Award. The Best of 2024 award program celebrates the brightest new products in the educational space — the technology that’s been turning heads, supporting teachers, and helping students to learn faster, easier, and more successfully than ever before. Tech & Learning selected Savvas CTE as a winner in the secondary education category of the most impactful educational technologies helping schools improve teaching and learning in 2024.

Savvas Learning Company, a next-generation K-12 learning solutions leader, is excited to announce that the South Carolina State Board of Education has approved the full suite of Savvas K-12 math programs for statewide adoption across all grade levels. Savvas is the only learning solutions provider to have all of its K-12 math programs approved as state-adopted high-quality instructional materials (HQIM) covering every grade level for South Carolina classrooms. The Savvas math programs for South Carolina, which are fully aligned to the 2025 South Carolina College- and Career-Ready Mathematics Standards, include: enVision Mathematics South Carolina Grades K-5; enVision Mathematics South Carolina Grades 6-8; enVision A|G|A (Geometry, Algebra 1, Algebra 2) South Carolina; Experience Math Grades K-5.

UPS announced fourth-quarter 2024 consolidated revenues of $25.3 billion, a 1.5% increase from the fourth quarter of 2023. “I want to thank all UPSers for their hard work and efforts as we closed out 2024 with an outstanding peak, delivering best-in-class service and strong financial results ahead of our targets for the quarter,” said Carol Tomé, UPS chief executive officer. Full-Year 2024 Consolidated Results: Revenue was $91.1 billion. Operating profit of $8.5 billion; Operating margin was 9.3%; Diluted EPS totaled $6.75; Cash from operations was $10.1 billion

Savvas Learning Company, a next-generation K-12 learning solutions leader, is excited to announce that its mathematics and social studies learning solutions for grades K-12 have been approved by the Mississippi Department of Education (MDE) for inclusion on its list of state-adopted high-quality instructional materials (HQIM). The MDE determined that Savvas Mississippi math and social studies programs are fully aligned to Mississippi College- and Career-Readiness Standards and designed to be “robust and relevant to the real world, reflecting the knowledge and skills that students need for success in college and careers and to compete in the global economy.” In the state’s HQIM review rubrics, all Savvas math and social studies learning solutions received high scores — at each grade level — on all three gateways (or criteria), which include Alignment to Standards; Rigor and Instructional Practices; and Usability. Mississippi school districts can purchase state-adopted Savvas instructional materials beginning on April 1, 2025.

The Association of American Publishers (AAP) released its StatShot report for November 2024 reflecting reported revenue for Trade (Consumer Books), Religious Presses, Higher Education Course Materials, and Professional Publishing. Total revenues across all categories for November 2024 were up 10.3% as compared to November 2023, coming in at $1.1 billion. Year-to-date revenues were up 7.3%, at $13.3 billion for the first eleven months of the year. Trade (Consumer Books) revenues were up 7.9% in November at $919.8 million. In terms of physical paper format revenues during the month of November, in the Trade (Consumer Books) category, Hardback revenues were up 6.9%, coming in at $384.9 million; Paperbacks were up 7.7%, with $286.6 million in revenue; Mass Market was up 17.5% to $11.6 million; and Special Bindings were up 8.3%, with $25.2 million in revenue.

REI Co-op president & CEO, Eric Artz, today announced that he will retire in March as CEO, marking a new chapter in the co-op's 87-year history. Mary Beth Laughton, a former REI Board Director and seasoned retail leader, will join REI as president on February 3, 2025, before assuming full CEO responsibilities on March 31.  Laughton has held leadership roles at Nike, Athleta, and Sephora. Her experience and personal passion balance strategic vision for the future of retail, innovation and operational rigor, love for the outdoors, and appreciation for the co-op's unique culture. She has also held board roles with Impossible Foods and Instacart. During the planned handover period, Mary Beth will be out on the road and in stores and distribution centers, building connections with employees, partners and community members. 

Savvas Learning Company, a next-generation K-12 learning solutions leader, is pleased to announce that the Tennessee State Board of Education has approved its evidence-based, standards-aligned K-12 science programs for statewide adoption. Savvas science programs are aligned to the new Tennessee Academic Standards for Science, which require science curricula to be “academically rigorous, relevant to today’s world, and attendant to what makes Tennessee a unique place to live and learn.” The programs also feature three-dimensional learning experiences that enable students to master science engineering, disciplinary core ideas, and cross-cutting concepts in a real-world, scientifically based setting.

If you’re going to print something, print it beautifully. Every choice, from paper weight to finish shapes how a printed piece feels, engages, and communicates. Darcey Thompson, Director of Marketing and Creative at Southeastern Printing, shares insights on how selecting the right paperboard weight, folding and scoring techniques, and finishing options can transform a print piece into a powerful brand statement. Selecting the weight of paper for a print project isn’t just about function—it’s about creating a sensory experience that reinforces its message. It’s the heft of a direct mail piece that stops it from being discarded, the reassuring thickness of a brochure that conveys its importance, and the silky smoothness of a notecard that encourages recipients to hold onto it a little longer. Paper weight dictates the immediate sensory reaction, guiding both perception and behavior.

Savvas Learning Company, a next-generation K-12 learning solutions leader, is pleased to announce that the Alabama State Board of Education has approved its evidence-based, standards-aligned K-12 science programs for statewide adoption. Savvas science programs are aligned to the 2023 Alabama Course of Study: Science, which provides the framework for the study of science in Alabama’s public schools and the standards that support equitable, innovative, and creative learning. Designed to provide students with engaging, three-dimensional learning experiences that integrate science engineering, disciplinary core ideas, and cross-cutting concepts in a real-world, scientifically based setting, the company’s high-quality instructional materials for Alabama’s K-12 science classrooms include: Alabama elevateScience; Alabama Millesr & Levine Biology; Alabama Experience Chemistry; Alabama Experience Physics; Alabama Environmental Science: Your World, Your Turn; Physical Science: Concepts in Action.

Savvas Learning Company, a next-generation K-12 learning solutions leader, today announced that its SIOP® Model Professional Learning has been adopted by the Colorado Department of Education (CDE) as a state-approved English Learner Professional Development Program. Developed by founding authors, Jana Echevarría, Ph.D., MaryEllen Vogt, Ed.D., and Deborah J. Short, Ph.D., the SIOP® Model instructional framework is proven to be effective for making grade-level content accessible and engaging for English learners (ELs) while simultaneously advancing their academic language development. To better support Colorado students who are English language learners, the CDE’s State Board of Education adopted a new English Learner Professional Learning requirement for educators holding an elementary, math, science, social studies, or English language arts (or any middle-level) endorsement on a professional license.

Two Iowa newspapers, The Dubuque Telegraph Herald and Cedar Rapids Gazette have announced that would reduce their print schedules to three days a week. The Telegraph Herald will reduce its print schedule from six days a week to three: Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, starting on Feb. 15. The Gazette will cut its print schedule seven days a week to three: Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday. It starts on Feb. 17. The two Iowa papers blamed the evolving news landscape and the shift by readers to digital for the change.

Savvas Learning Company, a next-generation K-12 learning solutions leader, is excited to announce that its enVision Mathematics South Carolina program for Grades K-5 has been approved by the South Carolina State Board of Education (SBE) for inclusion on the new list of state-adopted high-quality instructional materials (HQIM). The award-winning enVision Mathematics program provides evidence-based, standards-aligned content, combined with personalized adaptive learning, to help all students develop deep conceptual math understanding, procedural skills, and fluency. In addition to enVision, the South Carolina SBE also approved Experience Math K-5, another math program by Savvas. A student-centered program that engages students through exploration and a hands-on learning approach, Experience Math K-5 also supports teachers with high-value, in-the-moment professional learning to create collaborative classrooms.

Savvas Learning Company, a next-generation K-12 learning solutions leader, is proud to announce that it has been named to the 2025 edition of the GSV 150, an annual list of the top 150 private companies transforming digital learning and workforce skills. This is the third year in a row that Savvas has been named to the GSV 150. “Savvas has long been a leader in utilizing adaptive technology to provide students with deeply personalized learning experiences,” said Bethlam Forsa, CEO of Savvas Learning Company. “Advances in artificial intelligence are allowing us today to offer even greater personalized learning for students and enhanced support for educators in ways not previously possible. To be named to the GSV 150 is truly an honor, especially for three years running, as it recognizes our commitment to using technology to transform the K-12 teaching and learning experience.”

Nordstrom, Inc. announced a total Company net sales increase of 4.9 percent and a comparable sales increase of 5.8 percent for the nine-week holiday period ended January 4, 2025, compared with the nine weeks ended December 30, 2023. For the Nordstrom banner, net sales increased 3.7 percent and comparable sales increased 6.5 percent, while Nordstrom Rack banner net sales increased 7.4 percent and comparable sales increased 4.3 percent. "As a result of our efforts to remain competitive in the promotional environment and the strength of our offering, our holiday sales in November and December exceeded the expectations we shared during our most recent earnings call," said Erik Nordstrom, chief executive officer of Nordstrom, Inc. "For the full year, we're raising our topline outlook and reaffirming our profitability guidance." Based on holiday results, the Company has updated its fiscal 2024 outlook. The Company now expects revenue growth, including retail sales and credit card revenues, of 1.5 to 2.5 percent versus the 53-week fiscal 2023, which includes an approximately 135 basis point unfavorable impact from the 53rd week, compared with its prior outlook of flat to 1.0 percent growth. Additionally, the Company expects comparable sales growth of 2.5 to 3.5 percent versus 52 weeks in fiscal 2023, compared with its prior outlook of 1.0 to 2.0 percent growth.

Macy’s, Inc. go-forward business achieved quarter-to-date1 comparable sales2 growth, with Macy’s First 50 locations and luxury nameplates Bloomingdale’s and Bluemercury all continuing their trend of positive comparable sales2 . Macy’s digital channel also achieved comparable sales2 growth for the period1 . Macy’s, Inc. comparable sales2 were roughly flat quarter-to-date1 with Macy’s non-First 50 locations, inclusive of non-go-forward locations, performing below expectations and generating negative comparable sales2 . The company expects fourth quarter 2024 adjusted diluted earnings per share to be in-line with the previously issued range of $1.40 to $1.65 and net sales to be at, to slightly below, the low-end of the previously issued range of $7.8 billion to $8.0 billion.

Though unit sales of print books rose by less than 1% in 2024 over 2023, it was the first annual increase in three years at outlets that report to Circana BookScan. Unit sales totaled 782.7 million in the year ended Dec. 28, 2024, compared to 778.3 million in 2023. While 2024 sales were down from the 839.7 million units sold in the peak year of 2021, the figure was higher than the 759.6 million print copies sold in 2020, the first year of the pandemic. In 2024, sales gradually improved over the course of the year and saw a 1.6% increase in the fourth quarter. For the full year, the sales performance followed a familiar path, as adult fiction was once again the driver, with units rising 4.8%. Fantasy had the biggest increase in the adult segment, up 35.8%.

The Association of American Publishers today welcomed the release of the 2024 Review of Notorious Markets for Counterfeiting and Piracy by the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR). The Notorious Markets List highlights online and physical markets around the world engaged in industrial-scale copyright infringement and counterfeiting, which adversely impacts the interests of U.S. publishers, authors, and other rights holders. “This annual report is a critically important tool for identifying online sites and marketplaces that traffic in infringing copies of books and journal articles,” said Lui Simpson, Executive Vice President for Global Policy at AAP. “On behalf of publishers we thank USTR for their work in protecting the intellectual property of publishers and authors, whose livelihoods directly depend on the protection and enforcement of their rights,”

“The results of our first quarter signal a positive start to the 2025 fiscal year and demonstrate meaningful progress, with total revenue growing compared to this time last year,” said Andrew MacLeod, Postmedia President and Chief Executive Officer. “I am particularly encouraged by the trajectory of our advertising revenue stream, which is showing positive year-over-year growth. This, combined with strong performance in our circulation and parcel divisions, reflects the successful execution of our strategic initiatives and the increasing value we deliver to our partners,” said MacLeod. “As we move forward, we remain focused on sustainable growth and operational excellence across all our business segments.” Revenue for the quarter was $110.3 million as compared to $104.6 million in the same period in the prior year, representing an increase of $5.7 million (5.4%). Total operating expenses excluding depreciation, amortization and restructuring increased $6.1 million, or 6.1%, for the quarter ended November 30, 2024, relative to the same period in the prior year. Operating income before depreciation, amortization and restructuring in the quarter was $5.5 million, a decrease of $0.4 million relative to the same period in the prior year. Net loss in the quarter ended November 30, 2024 was $24.5 million, as compared to a net loss of $10.6 million in the same period in the prior year.

The union representing 45,000 dock workers on the U.S. East and Gulf Coasts and their employers on Wednesday said they reached a tentative deal on a new six-year contract, averting further strikes that could have snarled supply chains and taken a toll on the U.S. economy. The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) employer group, in a joint statement, called the agreement a "win-win." The deal includes a resolution in automation, which had been the thorniest issue of on the table. "This agreement protects current ILA jobs and establishes a framework for implementing technologies that will create more jobs while modernizing East and Gulf coast ports – making them safer and more efficient, and creating the capacity they need to keep our supply chains strong," the groups said.

Costco Wholesale Corporation reported net sales of $27.52 billion for the retail month of December, the five weeks ended January 5, 2025, an increase of 9.9 percent from $25.03 billion last year. Net sales for the first eighteen weeks were $94.04 billion, an increase of 8.0 percent from $87.07 billion last year.

Adobe released online shopping data for the 2024 holiday season, covering the period from Nov. 1 through Dec. 31, 2024. Based on Adobe Analytics data, the analysis provides the most comprehensive view into U.S. e-commerce by analyzing commerce transactions online, covering over 1 trillion visits to U.S. retail sites, 100 million SKUs and 18 product categories. Adobe Analytics is part of Adobe Experience Cloud, relied upon by the majority of the top 100 internet retailers in the U.S.* to deliver, measure and personalize shopping experiences online. Consumers spent $241.4 billion online from Nov. 1 to Dec. 31, up 8.7% year-over-year (YoY) and setting a new record for e-commerce. 15 days saw consumers spend more than $4 billion in a single day (up from 11 days in 2023). Mobile shopping hit a new milestone, with the majority of online transactions (54.5%) taking place through a smartphone this season (up from 51.1% in 2023); Mobile shopping was highest on Christmas Day (Dec. 25), driving 65% of online sales (63% in 2023).

Wiley continues to expand the reach of its medical education programs through a new partnership with M3 Digital Communications. This new partnership will enable Wiley's medical education programs to reach a larger target audience of Japanese medical professionals. M3 Digital Communications is part of the M3 Group Japan, which operates m3.com, one of the largest dedicated healthcare professional sites in Japan, with over 90% of Japanese physicians registered. The company contributes to the medical industry through integrated digital marketing services, including live streaming, websites, video content, and social media. As a result of this new partnership, Wiley and M3 Digital Communications will jointly create and distribute new medical content that meets the information needs of Japanese healthcare professionals.

HarperCollins Holland today announced it has agreed to acquire the lifestyle imprints Altamira, Becht, Dominicus, and Hollandia, along with associated personnel, from publisher Gottmer Uitgevers Groep (Gottmer), effective March 1, 2025. The acquisition will further expand HarperCollins Holland’s fast-growing position in the trade book market in the Netherlands and Belgium. The acquired imprints—part of Gottmer based in Haarlem—have more than 125 years of publishing history. They hold leading positions in their respective markets, with successful bestselling authors, a strong content pool, and exceptional brand awareness. As part of the deal, Vaarbewijs Academy, a boating license training platform, will also join the HarperCollins Holland portfolio.

Eagle Valley Publishing has acquired the Nevada Appeal, The Record-Courier, the Lahontan Valley News and Northern Nevada Business Weekly from Pacific Publishing Company. The terms were not disclosed. The publications will be operated by Nevada News Group, a division of Eagle Valley Publishing, according to the Nevada Appeal. The 29 employees in the group will continue with Eagle Valley Publishing. Eagle Valley Publishing was founded in 2023 by Adam Trumble, the editor of the Appeal and current operations director for the publications.

S&P Global (NYSE: SPGI) today announced that it has acquired ProntoNLP, a leading provider of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) tooling, allowing users to derive differentiated insights from unstructured and structured data. ProntoNLP’s proprietary models and LLM-based signal tools will bolster S&P Global’s textual data analytics capabilities. Founded in 2021, ProntoNLP utilizes proprietary natural language processing (NLP) capabilities coupled with large language models (LLMs) for fast, efficient and deep analysis of unstructured financial data at scale. Powered by artificial intelligence (AI), the company offers a set of customizable solutions for event detection and sentiment scoring. ProntoNLP will be integrated within the S&P Global Market Intelligence division of S&P Global, and its intellectual property is expected to power broader enterprise-wide applications.

Jerry Cheatham, a 36-year finance leader within Sonoco, has been named interim Chief Financial Officer, replacing Chief Financial Officer Rob Dillard, who has departed the Company. Mr. Cheatham has been Vice President of Global Finance for the Company’s Industrial Paper Packaging segment since December 2022 and previously served in several finance and accounting leadership roles since joining the Company in 1988. Mr. Cheatham holds a BS degree in Accounting from South Carolina State University and an EMBA from Vanderbilt University. The Company is undergoing a retained search for internal and external candidates to identify and select a permanent Chief Financial Officer. “Jerry is a trusted and respected leader within Sonoco who brings strong financial and operational expertise into this role. He will ensure an orderly transition of duties and provide further stability to our global finance organization,” said Howard Coker, President and Chief Executive Officer. “I want to thank Rob for his contributions since joining the Company in 2018, and for helping to build our current finance team and focusing our strategy to transform Sonoco into a global leader in sustainable metal and fiber packaging through several significant transactions, including the acquisitions of Eviosys and Ball Metalpack and the recently announced divestiture of our Thermoformed and Flexible Packaging (TFP) business to Toppan Holdings. We wish him all the best in his future professional and personal endeavors.”

Our corrugated manufacturing facility has expanded its capabilities to provide even more options for sustainable, innovative, and customer-focused packaging solutions that protect products and improve supply chain efficiency. Here are some of the benefits our customers can expect from these changes: *Located just outside of Charleston, South Carolina, our corrugated plant exists to help our customers succeed with some of the best production lead times in the market. *Whether it’s designing for multiple SKUs or creating multi-component packaging with interior forms, we deliver unmatched value. *Our hybrid business model strikes the perfect balance between packaging distribution and value-added manufacturing — representing 30% of our revenue. *From regular slotted containers to jumbo boxes and retail displays, we tailor each solution to meet your specifications with efficiency, flexibility, and superior care.

Inteplast Engineered Films (IEF), manufacturer of blown polyethylene (PE) films, and Bison Bag, a New York-based flexible packaging converter, have developed a comprehensive portfolio of store drop-off recyclable flexible packaging solutions. The stand-up pouches align with brand owners’ sustainable packaging goals and satisfy the increasing demands of end users for more recyclable options. Bob Stein, president of Inteplast Engineered Films, said that IEF is focused on taking a leadership role in developing sustainable packaging solutions for some time. “Through projects with suppliers, other Inteplast businesses, and development partners like Bison Bag, IEF has long recognized the exciting opportunity to be a real innovator in the emerging sustainable packaging space. Several years ago, we made it a main objective for our technical and sales teams to focus on how we can better support the shift toward recyclable flexible packaging,” said Stein. “What started as a collaboration incorporating recycled content for a large retailer eventually evolved into our full InteGreen™ family of sustainable films. Today, we’re proud to be a leader in the space.”

Contract talks covering 45,000 dockworkers on the U.S. East and Gulf Coasts are set to restart on Tuesday in a labor dispute that will help set the pace of automation at ports stretching from Maine to Texas. The International Longshoremen’s Association wants to eliminate past labor contract concessions on automation – notably the use of semi-automated cranes that stack containers on docks – arguing they pose a threat to jobs. If the two sides do not reach a deal by Jan. 15, workers at container ports that handle more than half of U.S. ocean imports could start a strike just days before President-elect Donald Trump’s Jan. 20 inauguration.

Gannett Co., Inc. and Reuters announced an agreement to provide media brands and publishers with a unique offering that includes ready-to-publish local, regional, state, national and international multimedia news and content. The new offering will combine Reuters extensive national and international coverage with Gannett’s USA TODAY Network coverage of local news from more than 200 publications across the country. This enables media companies to focus their efforts on the stories that matter most to their communities, while relying on Reuters and the USA TODAY Network for relevant content including breaking news, entertainment, sports and lifestyle coverage. This collaboration offers an innovative product that addresses the evolving needs of media brands leveraging USA TODAY Network’s extensive national reach and Reuters unparalleled national and international coverage. The collaboration delivers an unbiased and impartial news offering from Reuters, with USA TODAY and the USA TODAY Network’s extensive coverage on diverse topics from local communities, delivered in a single news feed.

The Postal Regulatory Commission voted unanimously to designate Commissioner Robert G. Taub as vice chairman of the Commission effective January 1, 2025, succeeding Commissioner Tom Day. Agency regulations provide that the commissioners elect a member to serve as vice chairman for a term of one year. Robert G. Taub was chairman of the Commission for more than 6 years, from December 2014 until January 2021. Three times appointed to the Commission following unanimous confirmations by the U.S. Senate in 2011, 2016, and 2023, Commissioner Taub has more than 40 years of public service experience at the local, state, and federal levels. Before joining the Commission in October 2011, he was a principal civilian advisor to the Secretary of the Army John M. McHugh. As an Army senior executive, he helped the Secretary lead a workforce of more than 1.2 million people and manage an annual budget exceeding $200 billion. Commissioner Taub was awarded the Army's Decoration for Distinguished Civilian Service.

Maersk is sending a message to customers ahead of a possible second strike at the East and Gulf Coast ports—pick up your cargo before Jan. 15. The container shipping giant said in a Tuesday advisory that it strongly encourages customers to retrieve their loaded containers from the ports ahead of the contract expiration date, as well as return all empty containers to the gateways. “This proactive measure will help mitigate any potential disruptions at the terminals,” said Maersk in the update. “Our teams are actively developing contingency plans to minimize the impact should a labor disruption occur. “ The International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) has maintained that it will go on strike for a second time in more than three months after walking away from negotiations in November. The ILA went on strike for three days from Oct. 1-3 before coming to an agreement on a 61.5 percent wage increase spread over six years.

The Ainsworth (Nebraska) Star-Journal has been saved by a last-minute purchase that the co-owner Rod Worrell calls a “Christmas miracle.” The paper is being taken over by a group that includes local radio station owner Graig Kinzie and Clint and Katie Painter, who own a car dealership in Ainsworth, the Nebraska Examiner reports. Also in the group are Kirk and Chelsea Peterson, Kinzie was preparing to assume ownership of the paper, but couldn’t find anyone to run it in the tight labor market. But the Painters came forward and said their daughter Erin is returning to town and is interested in doing the job.

The US District Court for the Western District of Arkansas today declared Arkansas Act 372 unconstitutional in an opinion indicating that the law is overbroad and void for vagueness, and permanently enjoined its enforcement. The Arkansas law would have subjected librarians and bookstore owners to criminal prosecution for making materials available on library and bookstore shelves that could be deemed harmful to younger minors and conceivably available for younger minors to view, and mandated a library book challenge procedure in public libraries whereby individuals may challenge books based on “appropriateness” (an undefined term not based on constitutional standards). In addition, review boards would have been allowed or even invited to engage in viewpoint and content-based discrimination. The ruling came in response to the suit filed by a coalition of plaintiffs that included local Arkansas libraries, as well as authors, publishers, booksellers, librarians, and readers.

Nordstrom, Inc. announced it has signed a definitive agreement under which Erik, Pete, Jamie Nordstrom and other members of the Nordstrom family and El Puerto de Liverpool, S.A.B. de C.V. will acquire all of the outstanding common shares of Nordstrom not already beneficially owned by the Nordstrom Family and Liverpool in an all-cash transaction valued at approximately $6.25 billion on an enterprise basis. Following the close of the transaction, the Nordstrom Family will have a majority ownership stake in the Company. Under the terms of the agreement, Nordstrom common shareholders will receive $24.25 in cash for each share of Nordstrom common stock they hold. The merger consideration represents a premium of approximately 42% to the Company's unaffected closing common stock price on March 18, 2024, the last trading day prior to media speculation regarding a potential transaction. In addition, the Board intends to authorize a special dividend of up to $0.25 per share (based on Nordstrom's cash on hand) immediately prior to and contingent on the close of the transaction. Upon completion of the transaction, Nordstrom will become a private company.

Foxtel, which has transformed into a digital and streaming leader in sports and entertainment content under News Corp management, will join DAZN, a global provider of sports streaming, giving international exposure to Australian sport, while bringing Australian sports fans greater access to programming from across the globe. Under the terms of the agreement, shareholder loans in the amount of A$578 million outstanding and owing to News Corp will be repaid in full in cash at closing. Foxtel’s current debt will be refinanced at closing and transfer with Foxtel, and News Corp will hold a minority equity interest in DAZN of approximately 6% as well as one seat on its Board of Directors. Telstra Group Ltd (“Telstra”) will also sell its minority interest in Foxtel, have its shareholder loans of A$128 million repaid, and take a minority stake in DAZN of approximately 3%. The proposed transaction values Foxtel at an enterprise value of A$3.4 billion, representing more than 7x fiscal 2024 Foxtel EBITDA.

The purchase could be finalized in January. “At Hearst Connecticut Media Group, we recognize the Republican-American as a pillar of journalistic excellence and a vital voice for the communities it serves,” says Mike DeLuca, group publisher and president of Hearst Connecticut Media Group. DeLuca continues, “We are committed to preserving the rich legacy of the Republican-American while enhancing its reach and resources for the benefit of readers and advertisers across Connecticut.”