Walmart's China troubles, McDonald's gets fast, and Starbucks' revamp: Retail news roundup

Updated March 14, 2025

Walmart $WMT (WMT) was summoned by Chinese officials for attempting to pass U.S. tariff costs onto suppliers, but it’s hardly alone in its approach. McDonald’s is splitting its teams to conquer beef, chicken, and beverages.

Starbucks $SBUX (SBUX) is encouraging customers to sip their coffee in comfy seats and charge their phones – as long as they buy something. Meanwhile, Best Buy $BBY (BBY) is keeping up with digital trends, following in the footsteps of Amazon $AMZN and Walmart by entering the influencer game.

Check out these stories and more in this week’s world of retail.

Starbucks $SBUX wants customers to stay, sip, and linger longer – but only if they’re buying something.

Walmart $WMT is in hot water for trying to pass the cost of U.S. tariffs onto its Chinese suppliers – but it’s far from alone.

McDonald’s has a need for speed. Well, at least it wants to.

Best Buy $BBY has big plans to keep up with Amazon $AMZN (AMZN) and Walmart $WMT — which include tapping into the lucrative creator economy.

The typically tranquil spring ritual of green-clad Girl Scouts selling Samoas and Thin Mints has been rocked by drama this year.

Dollar General $DG (DG), often seen as a barometer for the economic health of value-conscious consumers, delivered mixed financial results in its latest earnings report, yet CEO Todd Vasos pointedly warned investors about deteriorating consumer conditions.