Mark Hamstra

CONTRIBUTOR

About Mark

Mark Hamstra is a freelance business writer with experience covering a range of topics and industries, including food and mass retailing, the restaurant industry, direct/mobile marketing, and technology. Before becoming a freelance business journalist, Mark spent 13 years with Supermarket News, most recently as content director, where he was involved in all areas of editorial planning and production for print and online. Earlier in his career he also worked as a reporter and editor for other business publications, including Financial Technology, Direct Marketing News, Nation’s Restaurant News and Drug Store News. \nAreas of expertise include:\n• Company financial performance\n• Technology deployments\n• Supply chain strategies\n• Product marketing, merchandising and procurement\n• Retail real estate, design and construction\n• Labor issues

Latest—

Loyalty Programs Evolve to Deliver Experiential Rewards

A cross section of brands’ revamped rewards strategies rely on elevated perks to woo today’s consumers.

Security Experts on How SMBs Can Protect Customer Data From Cybercriminals

Execs share the key safeguard measures and employee training necessary to thwart hackers amid the growth of e-commerce and other digital touchpoints.

Constant Contact Wants to Help SMBs Monetize Content Via AI

Chief Product Officer for the marketing technology company on vastly simplifying campaign creation for small businesses across email, text, and social media.

How 3 Brands Tapped Technology to Slay Inventory Overhang and Save Millions

Snow Cosmetics teeth whitening kits, Freedom Rave Wear fast fashion, and KOS organic protein powder have freed up cash by optimizing inventory and avoiding costly liquidations—while generating sales.

GOOD COMPANY » THE LEAP

American Express Business Blueprint Is Designed to Help SMBs Grow

Brett Sussman on how its ‘digital one-stop shop’ for small businesses’ financial needs offers cash-flow visibility, enabling smart decision-making during challenging economic times.

GOOD COMPANY » LAUNCH PAD

Eco-Lodging Platforms Monetize Demand for Sustainable Travel Experiences

Discover Corps, Natural Habitat Adventures, and Kind Traveler tap into the growth of ‘impact tourism’ to drive business.

GOOD COMPANY » LAUNCH PAD

Pickleball’s Fast-Growing Popularity Is Creating Sales Opportunities for Businesses

Subway, Walmart, Chicken N Pickle, and CourtReserve are among the companies taking a swing at monetizing the ping-pong-meets-tennis game.

GOOD COMPANY » LAUNCH PAD

Restaurant Execs Share Top Trends to Drive Growth in 2023

Focus Brands (which owns Carvel and Cinnabon), Marco’s Pizza, and Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii deploy strategies for success in a changed restaurant landscape.

GOOD COMPANY » LAUNCH PAD

Startups Help Restaurant Takeout Businesses Go Green

Technology — and changing consumer behavior — are key to the success of this emerging business model, founders of reusable container businesses say.

GOOD COMPANY » THE LEAP

CHOPT Salad Chain Blends Digital Conveniences and Culinary Experiences to Drive Sales

Co-founder and Co-President on how the quick-service restaurant is leaning into off-premises dining opportunities and ‘making healthy eating exciting’ to grow.