–Taking a page from Amazon’s book, Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba has launched an experimental cashier-less popup store called Tao Cafe. Via Marketing Interactive.
–The UK’s advertising industry regulatory body has moved to ban ads with typecast roles that reinforce gender stereotypes. Via Quartz.
–“Social media has turned private spaces, like a consumer’s bedroom, into public extensions of their personal style”: Glossy explores why luxury brands are now lifestyle brands.
–The New York Times rounds up the best images from Curlfest, Brooklyn’s celebration of natural hair.
–“Almost everyone in major Chinese cities is using a smartphone to pay for just about everything.” Via the New York Times.
–New media start-up OMGDigital wants to be the Buzzfeed of Africa. Via Nieman Lab.
–The Ritz Carlton will launch the ultra-luxury Yacht Collection in 2019, “marking the first time that a hotel company hits the high seas.” Via Bloomberg.
–Anxiety among Hispanic consumers in the Trump era is affecting retailers, Quartz reports.
–Gucci’s new app, called “Gucci Places,” offers check-ins at locations curated by creative director Alessandro Michele. Via WWD.
–Are Seoul, Taipei, and Jakarta the new London and New York? Architect Winy Maas tells Dezeen that Asian cities are “racing ahead” of their Western counterparts in terms of urban design.
–Amazon filed a trademark for meal kits, causing Blue Apron’s stock to sink. Via Ars Technica.
–The Wall Street Journal suggests that “US retailers and e-commerce companies should look to China” for the future of the industry.
–Apple’s new emojis include a breastfeeding mother and a woman in a hijab. Via Dezeen.
–According to new Nielsen data, generation Z is the most likely to own a video gaming console—but nearly everyone owns a smartphone. Via Recode.
