Internet and Telecom

How E-Commerce is Changing the Face of American Retail: A Look at the Numbers

Published

3 years ago

April 26, 2023

Sam Hopkins

The retail industry has undergone a massive transformation in the last decade, with e-commerce emerging as a game-changer. From small businesses to large corporations, everyone is jumping on board the e-commerce bandwagon. It’s no secret that online shopping has revolutionized the way we buy and sell goods. But what impact does it have on American retail? In this blog post, we’ll take an in-depth look at how e-commerce is changing the face of American retail and explore its role in shaping the future of this industry. Let’s dive into the numbers!

The Growth of E-Commerce

Over the past decade, e-commerce has experienced exponential growth, transforming the retail industry. In 2020 alone, online sales in the US were projected to reach over $794 billion. That’s a staggering increase from just $72 billion in 2002! This growth is reflective of changing consumer behaviors and preferences.

One key driver of this growth is convenience. Online shopping allows consumers to shop from anywhere, at any time, without ever having to leave their homes. Another factor contributing to e-commerce’s popularity is that it offers customers access to products they might not otherwise have found locally.

Furthermore, technological advancements such as mobile commerce and social media platforms have made it easier for retailers to connect with customers directly and provide personalized shopping experiences.

The COVID-19 pandemic also accelerated this growth as many consumers turned to online shopping due to lockdowns and safety concerns associated with traditional brick-and-mortar stores.

It’s clear that e-commerce continues its rapid expansion into all aspects of our lives; we can expect even more significant developments in the years ahead.

The Impact of E-Commerce on the American Retail Industry

The rise of e-commerce has had a significant impact on the American retail industry in recent years. Traditional brick-and-mortar stores are facing increased competition from online retailers, and many have struggled to adapt to this changing landscape.

One major impact of e-commerce has been the shift in consumer behavior. With the convenience of shopping online, more and more consumers are choosing to make purchases from their computers or mobile devices instead of visiting physical stores. This trend is particularly prevalent among younger generations who have grown up with technology at their fingertips.

As a result, retailers have had to find ways to keep up with this change in consumer behavior. Many traditional retailers have invested heavily in developing their own e-commerce platforms as a way to remain competitive in the market. Additionally, some companies now offer buy-online-pick-up-in-store options as a way to bridge the gap between physical and digital shopping experiences.

However, while e-commerce offers many benefits for both consumers and retailers alike – such as greater variety, lower overhead costs for businesses, and increased convenience for shoppers – it has also led to some negative consequences within the industry.

For one thing, small businesses that rely on foot traffic may struggle against larger competitors offering online sales options. Additionally, there is concern about how these changes will affect employment opportunities within the industry over time.

It is clear that e-commerce has caused significant disruption within the American retail industry – but whether this disruption ultimately leads to positive or negative outcomes remains unclear.

The Role of E-Commerce in the Future of Retail

The future of retail is undoubtedly moving towards e-commerce. The convenience and ease that online shopping offers to customers have made it the preferred choice for many consumers. As technology continues to improve, we can expect even more growth in the e-commerce industry.

One crucial role that e-commerce will play in the future of retail is its ability to provide personalized experiences for customers. With data-driven insights, retailers can understand their customers better and tailor their offerings accordingly. This personalization creates a stronger bond between customer and brand, leading to increased loyalty and repeat business.

E-commerce also allows for an expansion into global markets by breaking geographic barriers. Retailers who previously only sold locally or nationally are now able to reach a worldwide audience with minimal effort through their online platforms.

Another advantage of e-commerce is its cost-effectiveness compared to traditional brick-and-mortar stores. Online storefronts require less overhead costs like rent, utilities, and staff wages than physical stores do. These savings translate into lower prices for consumers – something they’ll definitely appreciate.

E-commerce opens up new revenue streams such as subscription services which ensures recurring income from loyal customers while relieving them from having to make individual purchases every time they need something.

It’s easy to see why e-commerce plays a critical role in shaping the future of retail by providing personalization options, opening up new markets whilst reducing operating expenses among other benefits both for businesses and shoppers alike!

The Benefits of E-Commerce for American Retailers

E-commerce has revolutionized how American retailers conduct business. It has provided numerous benefits for both large and small businesses alike.

Firstly, e-commerce enables retailers to expand their customer base beyond their local area. With an online store, retailers can reach customers from all over the country – or even the world – without having to set up a physical presence in each location. This allows them to increase their sales and revenue significantly.

Secondly, e-commerce reduces overhead costs associated with traditional retail stores such as rent, utilities, staff salaries and other expenses. By eliminating these fixed costs, retailers can save more money that they could invest in other areas of the business such as marketing or product development.

Thirdly, e-commerce provides valuable insights into customer behavior through data analytics tools. Retailers get access to metrics like page views, conversion rates and shopping cart abandonment rates which help identify areas for improvement on their website.

Moreover, E-commerce platforms allow retailers greater flexibility in terms of inventory management by automating tasks such as ordering supplies when stocks are low or removing products that aren’t selling well.

Finally yet importantly is that E-commerce also facilitates easy communication with customers through social media channels like Facebook Messenger or WhatsApp; this helps build stronger relationships between businesses thereby increasing brand loyalty.

Conclusion

It’s clear that e-commerce is changing the face of American retail in significant ways. The growth of online shopping has led to a shift in consumer behavior and expectations, which retailers must adapt to if they want to remain competitive.

While some traditional brick-and-mortar stores have struggled to keep up with these changes, others have embraced e-commerce as part of their business strategy. By selling products online, retailers can reach new customers and expand their market share.

Furthermore, the benefits of e-commerce for American retailers are numerous. From lower overhead costs to improved customer insights and data analytics, there are many reasons why more businesses are turning towards an online presence.

As we look towards the future of retail, it’s clear that e-commerce will continue to play a critical role. By leveraging technology and innovation, American retailers can thrive in this rapidly evolving landscape and meet the needs of today’s consumers.

Author

Sam Hopkins

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Business

Fractional CMO: Strategic Marketing Leadership On-Demand

Published

14 hours ago

January 30, 2026

beecollaborativellc

As markets become more competitive and customer journeys more complex, marketing has evolved into a strategic growth function rather than a support role. Yet many businesses struggle to manage marketing effectively. Campaigns are launched, tools are purchased, agencies are hired—but results remain inconsistent. The problem is rarely effort. More often, it’s the absence of senior leadership.

This is where a Fractional CMO provides significant value. A Fractional Chief Marketing Officer delivers experienced, executive-level marketing leadership on a part-time or contract basis, helping businesses build clarity, alignment, and measurable growth—without the cost or commitment of a full-time CMO.

What Is a Fractional CMO?

A Fractional CMO is an experienced marketing executive who integrates into your leadership team and takes ownership of marketing strategy and performance. Unlike consultants who provide short-term advice or agencies that focus on execution, a Fractional CMO is accountable for outcomes.

They are responsible for aligning marketing with business objectives, prioritizing initiatives, managing resources, and ensuring every marketing effort contributes to growth.

This role is especially valuable for companies that are growing, restructuring, or scaling but are not yet ready—or do not need—a full-time CMO.

Why Marketing Without Leadership Breaks Down

Many organizations invest heavily in marketing but fail to see meaningful ROI. Common issues include:

Marketing activity without a clear strategy
Inconsistent brand messaging across channels
Poor lead quality and low conversion rates
Misalignment between sales and marketing teams
Lack of performance tracking and accountability

Without senior leadership, marketing becomes reactive rather than strategic. A Fractional CMO brings structure, focus, and long-term thinking to solve these challenges.

Core Responsibilities of a Fractional CMO

A Fractional CMO oversees the full marketing function, ensuring alignment from strategy to execution. Key responsibilities typically include:

Developing a comprehensive marketing strategy and roadmap
Defining ideal customer profiles and market positioning
Establishing brand voice, messaging, and value propositions
Building demand generation and lead nurturing systems
Aligning marketing efforts with sales goals and pipelines
Managing internal teams, agencies, and vendors
Setting KPIs, dashboards, and performance metrics
Optimizing marketing budgets for maximum ROI

By overseeing both strategy and execution, a Fractional CMO ensures marketing efforts are cohesive, measurable, and scalable.

Key Benefits of Hiring a Fractional CMO

1. Executive Expertise at a Fraction of the Cost

Hiring a full-time CMO is a major investment. A Fractional CMO provides the same strategic leadership without long-term salary, benefits, or equity commitments.

2. Faster Strategic Clarity

With experience across industries and growth stages, Fractional CMOs quickly identify gaps, opportunities, and priorities—eliminating trial and error.

3. Improved Marketing ROI

A Fractional CMO focuses on efficiency and performance, ensuring marketing spend is allocated to initiatives that drive revenue.

4. Stronger Team Direction and Accountability

Marketing teams perform better with clear leadership. A fractional CMO defines roles, sets expectations, and builds accountability.

5. Scalable, Repeatable Growth Systems

Rather than relying on one-off campaigns, Fractional CMOs build systems and processes that support long-term growth.

When Should a Business Hire a Fractional CMO?

A Fractional CMO is an ideal solution when:

Marketing feels busy but ineffective
Revenue growth has plateaued
You’re preparing to scale or enter new markets
You possess a marketing team, but lack senior leadership
You’re overspending without clear ROI
You need strategy before increasing marketing investment

If your business is asking “What should we focus on next?” a CMO can provide the answer.

Fractional CMO vs Full-Time CMO

While both roles provide executive leadership, the difference lies in flexibility and cost. A full-time CMO is best suited for large or enterprise organizations with complex, mature marketing operations.

A Fractional CMO, on the other hand, is ideal for small to mid-sized businesses that need leadership, strategy, and accountability—but not at a full-time scale. This model allows companies to access top-tier expertise while remaining agile and cost-efficient.

Long-Term Impact of a Fractional CMO

The true value of a Fractional CMO extends beyond immediate improvements and thus, They help businesses:

Build internal marketing capabilities
Create clarity around positioning and messaging
Establish performance-driven cultures
Align marketing with overall business strategy
Lay the foundation for sustainable growth

Over time, marketing becomes a predictable, scalable function rather than a series of disconnected tactics.

Partner With an Experienced Fractional CMO

At Bee Collaborative LLC, we provide Fractional CMO services designed to help businesses gain clarity, focus, and momentum. Our approach combines executive-level strategy with hands-on leadership, ensuring marketing supports revenue growth and long-term success.

Final Thoughts

A CMO is not a temporary fix—it’s a strategic advantage. For businesses that want senior marketing leadership without executive overhead, this model delivers clarity, accountability, and results.

By turning marketing into a disciplined growth engine, a Fractional CMO helps businesses scale smarter, spend wisely, and compete with confidence. By turning marketing into a disciplined growth engine, a Fractional CMO helps businesses scale smarter, spend wisely, and compete with confidence.

Author

beecollaborativellc

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Computer Electronic

Webroot Pop-Ups on Windows 11: Troubleshooting Guide

Published

5 days ago

January 26, 2026

David Cruz

Webroot is a popular cloud-based antivirus solution known for its lightweight performance and real-time protection. However, many Windows 11 users report frequent Webroot pop-ups that can interrupt work, gaming, or browsing. These alerts may include subscription warnings, scan notifications, threat detections, or promotional messages. While some pop-ups are important, excessive notifications can quickly become frustrating.

In this guide, we’ll walk through practical, safe, and effective ways to reduce or completely stop Webroot pop-ups on a Windows 11 computer—without compromising your system’s security.

Why Webroot Pop-Ups Appear So Often

Before disabling anything, it’s helpful to understand why Webroot shows pop-ups in the first place:

Real-time threat alerts when malware or suspicious behavior is detected
Subscription or license expiration warnings
Scheduled scan notifications
System integration alerts (firewall, browser protection, or identity shield updates)
Promotional or upgrade reminders

Some of these are essential for your protection, while others can be safely adjusted or silenced.

Method 1: Adjust Webroot Notification Settings

The most direct way to reduce pop-ups is through Webroot’s built-in settings.

Open Webroot SecureAnywhere from the system tray or Start menu
Click the gear icon (Settings)
Go to the General tab
Look for notification-related options such as:
- “Show alerts”
- “Show system tray notifications”
Uncheck non-critical alert options
Click Save and close the program

This method allows you to keep essential security alerts while disabling routine or promotional messages.

Method 2: Check Your Webroot Subscription Status

A very common reason for repeated pop-ups is an expired or nearly expired subscription.

Open Webroot
Check the license status on the main dashboard
If expired, you’ll continue receiving warnings until it’s renewed or removed

If you’re unsure about renewal options or licensing issues, you can contact customer support for clarification. Resolving license problems often eliminates recurring alerts instantly.

Method 3: Disable Webroot Notifications in Windows 11

Windows 11 includes a centralized notification system that lets you control alerts app by app.

Press Windows + I to open Settings
Go to System → Notifications
Scroll down to find Webroot SecureAnywhere
Toggle notifications Off

This prevents Webroot from showing pop-ups at the Windows level, even if the app itself generates alerts.

Tip: Use this method carefully, as it blocks all notifications, including critical threat warnings.

Method 4: Turn Off Scan and Scheduled Alerts

If Webroot pop-ups mainly appear during scans:

Open Webroot
Go to Settings → Scan Settings
Disable options like:

“Show scan progress”
“Notify when scan completes”

You can still keep automatic scanning enabled while removing unnecessary interruptions.

Method 5: Check Browser Extensions and Identity Protection Alerts

Webroot installs browser extensions to protect against phishing and malicious websites. These can sometimes trigger repeated pop-ups.

Open your browser (Chrome, Edge, or Firefox)
Go to Extensions / Add-ons
Locate Webroot SecureAnywhere
Adjust its permissions or temporarily disable it to test if pop-ups stop

If disabling the extension resolves the issue, reinstall it cleanly or adjust its notification permissions.

Method 6: Perform a Clean Reinstall of Webroot

Corrupt installations or leftover files from upgrades can cause excessive alerts.

Steps for a clean reinstall:

Uninstall Webroot from Settings → Apps → Installed Apps
Restart your computer
Download the latest version from Webroot’s official site
Reinstall and activate using your keycode

This often resolves bugs, duplicate services, or notification loops.

Method 7: Scan for Malware or Conflicting Software

Ironically, persistent pop-ups can sometimes be triggered by:

Malware imitating Webroot alerts
Conflicts with other antivirus or security tools

Ensure you:

Run a full system scan
Avoid using two real-time antivirus programs simultaneously
Remove suspicious or unknown applications

Method 8: Contact Support for Persistent Pop-Ups

If none of the above methods work, the issue may be account- or system-specific. Reaching out to trained support professionals can help identify deeper causes such as backend account errors or configuration conflicts. For personalized assistance, you can call and explain the type of pop-ups you’re receiving, how often they appear, and what steps you’ve already tried.

Best Practices to Prevent Future Webroot Alerts

Keep Windows 11 fully updated
Avoid running multiple security programs together
Review Webroot settings after major updates
Renew or deactivate licenses you no longer use
Periodically review notification preferences

Final Thoughts

Webroot pop-ups on Windows 11 are usually well-intentioned, but they don’t have to disrupt your daily workflow. By adjusting in-app settings, managing Windows notifications, checking your subscription status, and reinstalling the software if necessary, you can dramatically reduce or eliminate unwanted alerts—while still staying protected.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are Webroot pop-ups a sign that my computer is infected?

Not always. Most Webroot pop-ups are routine notifications such as scan completions, subscription reminders, or security status updates. However, threat alerts should be reviewed carefully, as they may indicate suspicious activity.

2. Will disabling Webroot pop-ups reduce my computer’s security?

Disabling non-essential notifications does not reduce security. However, turning off all alerts at the Windows 11 notification level may cause you to miss important threat warnings. It’s best to disable only promotional or informational pop-ups.

3. Why do Webroot pop-ups appear even when I’m not using the program?

Webroot runs in the background to provide real-time protection. Notifications may appear during scheduled scans, automatic updates, or when monitoring web activity—even if the app isn’t actively open.

4. Can Windows 11 updates cause increased Webroot pop-ups?

Yes. Major Windows 11 updates can reset system permissions or notification settings, which may cause Webroot to re-enable alerts or display compatibility notifications temporarily.

5. How can I tell if a Webroot pop-up is legitimate or fake?

Legitimate Webroot pop-ups usually include the official logo and appear in the system tray. Fake alerts often redirect you to unfamiliar websites or request immediate payment. When in doubt, open the Webroot app directly instead of clicking the pop-up.

6. Is it safe to use Webroot alongside another antivirus program?

Running two real-time antivirus programs can cause conflicts, performance issues, and excessive pop-ups. It’s recommended to use only one primary antivirus solution at a time.

7. Do Webroot browser extensions cause extra pop-ups?

Yes, browser protection features can trigger alerts related to blocked sites, phishing attempts, or unsafe downloads. These can usually be adjusted or limited within the browser extension settings.

8. Will reinstalling Webroot reset my notification preferences?

Yes. A clean reinstall restores default settings, which may re-enable notifications. After reinstalling, revisit the settings to customize alerts according to your preferences.

Author

David Cruz

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Digital Development

Fixing BellSouth Email: Common Issues and Troubleshooting Steps

Published

5 days ago

January 26, 2026

hanryleo

BellSouth Email is a widely used webmail service, recognized for its ability to facilitate global communication while prioritizing data security and user confidentiality. Despite its robust features, users occasionally encounter issues that can affect their email experience.

One of the most common problems is not receiving new emails, which can disrupt your workflow and communication. In this article, we will examine the causes of this problem and offer practical solutions.

Why Isn’t BellSouth Email Receiving New Emails?

There are several potential reasons why you might not be receiving emails in your BellSouth account. Grasping these elements is essential for pinpointing the correct answer. Here are some common issues:

Filter Settings
Email filters can sometimes inadvertently block incoming messages by redirecting them to designated folders. If you’ve set up filters, one of them may be hindering the delivery of specific emails.
Forwarding Settings
Many users set up forwarding to manage multiple email accounts. If you’ve enabled forwarding to another address and that option is misconfigured, it can prevent incoming emails from reaching your BellSouth inbox.
Blacklisting Issues
If you’ve inadvertently blacklisted a sender or their domain, their emails will not appear in your inbox. This is something to verify if you’re missing messages from specific individuals.
Incorrect Email Address
Sometimes, the sender might simply type the wrong email address. This can easily happen, so it’s worth confirming that the sender has your correct email.
Server Address Problems
If you’re trying to access your BellSouth account using a mobile app or third-party application, incorrect server addresses can lead to issues with receiving emails.

How to Resolve the “BellSouth Not Receiving Emails” Issue

If you’re unable to receive emails, there are various troubleshooting measures you can implement to fix the issue.

Step 1: Verify the Sender’s Email Address

First, confirm with the sender that they are using the correct email address. This simple step can often resolve issues stemming from typos or miscommunication. Communicating directly with the sender can save both parties time and frustration.

Step 2: Check Email Filter Settings

Log into your BellSouth Email account and review your filter settings. Ensure that none of your filters are mistakenly blocking incoming messages. If needed, modify or take away the filters and check to determine if emails are arriving now.

Step 3: Review Forwarding Settings

If you have set up email forwarding to another account, double-check that the settings are correct. Disable any forwarding options temporarily to see if this resolves the issue. This will help ensure that all emails are directed to your primary inbox.

Step 4: Correct Server Address

If you’re using a third-party application or accessing your email via mobile, ensure that you have entered the correct server address. Incorrect settings can prevent emails from being delivered. You may want to look up the correct server settings on the BellSouth help page for confirmation.

Step 5: Seek Professional Support

If after trying the above steps you are still experiencing issues, it may be time to consult technical support. The BellSouth customer support team is well-equipped to assist you with your account issues. They can offer insights and solutions customized to your unique circumstances.

Contacting BellSouth Customer Support

Should problems persist, BellSouth offers multiple channels for support. Here’s how you can get in touch:

1. Phone Support

For immediate assistance, calling is often the most effective method. Simply:

Dial the BellSouth customer service number.
Choose your language preference and follow the automated instructions.
Select the topic related to your email issue.
Wait for a representative to assist you.

This direct communication can lead to quicker resolutions and is often preferred by users who need urgent help.

2. Email Support

If you prefer written communication, you can also reach out via email:

Visit the [BellSouth website]
Send an email to support@bellsouth.com detailing your issue

This method is useful for more complicated concerns that might require documentation or a detailed explanation.

3. Live Chat Support

Live chat is another convenient option for obtaining help:

Navigate to the BellSouth support page.
Look for the live chat icon to start a conversation with a support agent.
Describe your issue to receive real-time assistance.

Chat support can be particularly useful for those who prefer not to speak on the phone.

Advantages of 24/7 Support

One of the great benefits of BellSouth customer service is that it’s available 24/7. This ensures that no matter the time of day, you can receive help for a range of issues, from technical glitches to account security questions. However, note that some specific departments may have limited hours, so check their website for the latest information.

Conclusion

In today’s digital age, email is an essential tool for both personal and professional communication. Encountering issues with your BellSouth Email can be frustrating, especially when you rely on it for vital correspondence. By understanding the common reasons for not receiving emails and following the provided troubleshooting steps, you can often rectify the situation swiftly.

However, if issues continue, don’t hesitate to tap into BellSouth’s user-friendly customer support resources. Whether you choose to call, email, or chat live, assistance is readily available to ensure you have a smooth email experience. Remember, a proactive approach to resolving these issues can significantly enhance your overall experience with the BellSouth platform.