We assess what the ending of the Walmart Express pilot means for the company, whether Walmart's other store closures will make a significant dent in their holdings, the continued waves of closures for Sears Holdings, and other topics from the week in retail. Our guest is food, drink, and culture writer Ashlie Stevens, who discusses the relationship dynamics of craft beer and spirits, and how craft brands are communicating with consumers in a retail setting.

This week, we discuss Macy's announcement of specific store closures (and openings), Finish Line's new direction, and Whole Foods' speculation on the top ten food trends of 2016. Our interview guest is social media consultant Sydney Ward Anselmi, who discusses her research on authenticity and how retailers interact with their authentic brands.