The Indicator | January 9th, 2026

CES Las Vegas featured a range of technology, including viral tech like an AI laundry folder and smart LEGOs, as well as wellness products such as bionic footwear, smart scales, and the Nuralogix Longevity Mirror. Amorepacific won an Innovation Honoree Award for Skinsight, an AI-powered smart mirror developed with MIT and Samsung that analyzes skin aging and recommends personalized products. L’Oréal Groupe showcased the “thinnest LED mask in the world,” a 1mm, flexible silicone light therapy mask and eye patches. (Glossy)

After Stranger Things, Millie Bobby Brown launched her young women’s fashion line, Mills by Millie Bobby Brown, exclusively at Walmart. Developed with Delta Galil USA, the brand aligns with Walmart’s goal to expand its national fashion offerings. Walmart believes Brown chose Walmart for its accessibility, believing it allows more young women to affordably experiment with style and participate in trends, reflecting her focus on confidence, self-expression, and inclusivity. (WWD)

In December, E.l.f. Beauty launched Glow Up, a Roblox game where players act as makeup artists for virtual characters preparing for major life events. Players select themes, create looks using virtual cosmetics, and view other players’ creations in a “livestream” mode. The game debuted with four characters representing women in business, sports, music, and gaming. (Retail Dive)

Retailers Uniqlo and Coach have recently opened branded cafes. Experts note that these experiences, such as cafes, increase foot traffic, boost brand awareness, and drive sales. Ralph Lauren, who began opening cafes in 2014, also continues to expand their dozens of locations. (CNBC)

Gen Alpha’s beauty obsession, fueled by TikTok, has created Sephora Kids, signifying a major economic shift. Mintel forecasts their spending power will hit $5.5 trillion by 2029. Brands like Evereden (whose Gen Alpha products now drive 85% of its revenue) and new lines like Sincerely Yours are meeting this demand, with Sephora stocking these items. (Glossy)

The high-street retail market is becoming a winner-take-all landscape, focusing on luxury expansion in key cities like NYC, LA, and Miami, making prime corridor real estate essential. Investment in high-street ownership surged by 82% in 2025 due to strategic necessity, low vacancy, and escalating rents. Flagship stores are evolving into large, experience-driven destinations that integrate storytelling, hospitality, and dining, affirming that the store experience is a core part of the product. (Forbes)