TWIR: Bonus Edition

The decline of the American shopping destination, Kardashian popcorn, and Walmart's convenience store strategy

Hey Friends,

The travel industry needs American retail ……The U.S., long seen as a top global shopping destination, is now facing a decline in international tourist retail spending. According to the International Trade Administration (ITA), Canadians and Europeans are increasingly choosing alternative destinations, with flight availability from cities like London and Amsterdam signaling weaker U.S. demand. Forbes reports the steepest drop in foreign shopper foot traffic since the pandemic, and the U.S. Department of Commerce confirmed a 12% year-over-year dip in international arrivals in March. If trends continue, Canada alone could account for a $6B economic loss, and a wider boycott—fueled by geopolitical tensions—could cost the U.S. economy up to $90B. Despite record international spending of $254B in 2024, nearly $20B in retail revenue may be at risk as global consumers reassess their travel and shopping choices.