The pullback on returns comes after the e-commerce sector spent the past two decades removing costs from supply chains and customer service. But returns had barely been touched, leaving them as one of the few places with lots of room for reducing expenses.

Department stores used to be ground zero for consumers looking to try and buy new makeup or skin care products, only to lose their grip on the market to Sephora and Ulta. Now, another evolution is underway as big-box retailers and drugstores enter the fray.

In-store mobile apps and micro-fulfilment tech can address consumer pain points and enable companies to incorporate their physical retail networks into omnichannel shopping journeys.

Chanel, Dries Van Noten and Target are debuting beauty products that are meant to be replenished, in a sign that the concept may be starting to catch on.

In recent months, several brands have ventured into the tween category, targeting customers aged eight to 12 who are just starting to develop their own sense of style but are still primarily spending their parents’ money.

Retailers like Target, Walmart, PacSun, Gap and Ulta are kicking off marketing campaigns or sale promotions earlier than ever in an attempt to avoid supply chain woes that could dampen holiday cheer and sales performance.

Walmart is going up against Target, Ulta and others in its efforts to become a destination where people can find some of the newest and coolest names in beauty.

This week, everyone will be talking about Farfetch’s earnings plus new beauty retail concepts from Sephora and Ulta.