eBay has launched a redesigned Community experience across 11 global markets, aiming to provide a more connected platform for buyers and sellers to learn, share expertise, and stay informed. The revamped Community offers enhanced features like AI-powered search, unified digital destinations, and improved communication channels to foster a more engaging and supportive environment. This initiative represents an investment in customer success, strengthening the marketplace by empowering users with knowledge, support, and connections.
Netflix has released a trailer for its new reality competition show, "Wonka's The Golden Ticket," based on "Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory." The series features contestants navigating a factory and competing in challenges, guided by the AI-recreated voice of the late Gene Wilder, who played Willy Wonka in the 1971 film. While Wilder's estate has given permission, the use of his AI voice might be unsettling for some viewers, alongside the appearance of Rusty Goffe, an original Oompa Loompa actor.
General Mills has successfully removed FD&C artificial colors from its entire U.S. cereal portfolio, including popular brands like Lucky Charms and Trix, meeting its goal ahead of schedule. This move is part of a broader company initiative to eliminate certified colors from 90% of its U.S. retail products, with a target of 100% by the end of 2027. The company's efforts align with evolving consumer preferences for more natural ingredients and regulatory trends in the food industry.
Clorox ToiletWand is experiencing significant growth, with approximately 15% top-line growth in fiscal year 2026 and over 10% household penetration. This success is attributed to continuous consumer-focused innovation, including clarifying product benefits, enhancing the cleaning experience with improved caddy and pads, and expanding retail options. The brand aims to continue identifying unmet consumer needs and introducing more households to its simplified toilet cleaning solution.
Chipotle has launched a "Every Win Tastes Better" promotion with tennis ambassador Taylor Fritz for the US Open. Fans can receive buy-one-get-one (BOGO) entrée offers after each of Fritz's singles victories by texting a unique code shared on his Instagram Story. The number of BOGO offers available will increase as Fritz advances through the tournament rounds.
Target is launching "Target Beauty Studio" in over 600 stores and online on September 16, following the end of its collaboration with Ulta Beauty. This new beauty destination will feature more than 1,600 products from 90 brands, two-thirds of which are new to Target, along with dedicated beauty advisors and interactive displays. The initiative is part of Target's broader strategy to enhance its distinctive assortment and elevated guest experiences to drive growth.
The Hershey Super Sweet Adventure pop-up store and interactive experience at Tysons Corner Center is scheduled to close on Labor Day, September 7, after a four-month run. The attraction, developed by Original X Productions, offered an interactive workshop and retail shop with candy and merchandise. Visitors still have a few weeks to experience it, with tickets available online and an "end of summer" sale offering 50% discounts in the retail store.
Behr Paint Company announced "Grounded" (T27-01), an earthy olive green, as its 2027 Color of the Year, coinciding with the 10th anniversary of its Color of the Year program. To mark the occasion, Behr is donating $250,000 to Habitat for Humanity to support affordable homeownership programs. The company also unveiled its 2027 Color Trends Palette and launched a sweepstakes offering $5,000 for home transformations.
General Mills announced it has completed the removal of certified colors from all its U.S. cereals, including popular brands like Lucky Charms and Trix, meeting its summer 2026 commitment. This achievement means 90% of General Mills' U.S. retail portfolio is now free from certified colors, with the company aiming for full removal across its entire U.S. retail portfolio by the end of 2027. This move aligns with evolving consumer preferences for foods with familiar ingredients and reinforces General Mills' leadership in food innovation.
Oceania Cruises is expanding its onboard enrichment program across its fleet starting in 2027, introducing dedicated expert speakers on every sailing to deepen cultural discovery and learning. Longer voyages will feature additional special interest speakers on contemporary topics, as well as specialist-led activities like Mah Jongg, bridge, crafting workshops, or BeMoved® dance classes. These enhancements aim to provide guests with more personalized and meaningful experiences that extend beyond their destinations.
