In a time when misinformation is everywhere and consumer skepticism is at an all-time high, trust has become marketing’s most valuable currency. And for all the new tools and platforms marketers have adopted in the digital age, one channel consistently earns that trust more than any other: direct mail. Despite years of predictions about its decline, direct mail has not only survived — it’s thriving. In fact, it’s become the quiet powerhouse in omnichannel marketing strategies. As digital fatigue, privacy concerns, and ad fraud undermine confidence in online media, marketers and consumers alike are rediscovering the value of physical mail. The stats tell the story. Americans are seeing more ads than ever, but believing fewer of them. Social media feeds are crowded with questionable claims, sponsored content is often indistinguishable from organic posts, and AI-generated misinformation is rampant. Inboxes are overrun with scams, phishing attempts, and generic automated messaging.

Consumer confidence edged higher in February as Americans felt a bit more optimistic. But it remains below the peak reached in November 2024. The Conference Board’s Consumer Confidence Index rose 2.2 points to 91.2 in preliminary results for February, from an upwardly revised 89.0 in January. (The cutoff for preliminary results was Feb. 17). “Confidence ticked up in February after falling in January, as consumers’ pessimistic expectations for the future eased somewhat,” said Dana M Peterson, chief economist, The Conference Board. “Four of five components of the Index firmed. Nonetheless, the measure remained well below the four-year peak achieved in November 2024 (112.8).”

Ahold Delhaize USA is one big step closer to having a new state-of-the-art distribution center in North Carolina. The U.S. subsidiary of Dutch supermarket conglomerate Ahold Delhaize, along with its companies ADUSA Distribution and ADUSA Transportation, have broken ground on an $860 million-plus distribution center in Burlington, N.C. Initially announced in October 2025 and expected to open in 2029, the new facility will grow the company’s supply chain network, which serves Ahold Delhaize USA’s omnichannel grocery brands on the East Coast, by adding over 1 million sq. ft. of fresh and frozen distribution capacity. When operational, the hub will support Ahold Delhaize USA grocery brands including Food Lion while creating a more than 500 anticipated new jobs over time.