This Week in Retail Search: 7/16/2014

Below are the most important stories in retail search this week.
UPS and ComScore surveyed nearly 6,000 consumers to better understand the importance of free shipping for ecommerce businesses.
The survey findings include:
Businesses considering free shipping should assess the costs thoroughly to preserve margins and stay competitive in the market.
Bonobos, a men’s clothing specialist store, which currently operates 10 Guideshops announced plans to open 40 Guideshops nationwide by 2016.
Guideshops enable consumers to make assisted online purchases in-store, such as trying on clothing. For retailers, Guideshops use the online store as a virtual stock, allowing retailers to carry minimal inventory, and keep store locations small.
Bonobos use of Guideshops:
Below are the most important stories in digital marketing this week.
Microsoft announced its ecommerce plans for 2014 this month- including adding search scale, improving data insights, and introducing new ad formats for Bing Ads. As the adoption rate of Bing Ads continues to rise, Microsoft is looking to continue their success.
Below are a few highlights from the Bing Ads upgrades:
Below are the most important stories in tech this week.
Following Apple’s acquisition of Burberry’s Chief Executive last May, this month Apple Apple hired Tag Heuer’s former VP of Sales, Patrick Pruniaux for an unknown project.
Rumors suggest Apple is preparing for the launch of a new product, the iWatch to compete with the likes of Android based smart watches.