Woolies Goes AI, The Oodie vs News, and Store Closures Galore

This week, Mal and Alex are back with a scorching episode of This Week in Ecommerce, breaking down the biggest stories shaping retail in Australia and abroad. From Woolworths jumping headfirst into AI to the fading glow of The Oodie, the duo tackle retail shakeups, brand resurrections, and what happens when luxury loses its sparkle.Here’s what’s in store:🏆 Inside Retail Awards 2026: A refreshing mix of finalists with nods to Ergo Pouch, Nobby, and the ever-dominant Appliances Online. We celebrate the standouts (and hint at the PR machines behind them).👖 Sass and Bide: Fashion Fade or Phoenix Rising? Maya hits pause on the heritage label, but will it rise again—or is it time to retire the skinny jeans?🎮 EB Games Exits NZ: 38 stores shut down in a flash. We unpack the decline of physical media and why collectibles couldn’t save the day.🩲 Bonds & Co. Up for Sale: Hanes might be offloading Aussie staples like Sheridan and Burley. Is it smart restructuring or the start of a fire sale?💸 Saks Files Chapter 11: The US luxury retailer’s fall from grace—and what it means for premium department stores down under.🛋️ The Oodie Gets Too Comfy? Adelaide’s fluffy export is reportedly slipping into the red. But is the press blowing hot air or is the novelty finally wearing off?🧠 Woolworths x Google AI: From interpreting handwritten recipes to filling your cart—Mal and Alex debate if it’s a smart move or a sneaky upsell trap.