Selling clothing is tough on a good day, given how quickly fashion tastes can shift. With tariffs and consumer anxiety adding to the level of difficulty, this year seemed destined to run roughshod over apparel retailers’ performance. Yet many have thrived. Through October, compared to a year ago, apparel sales rose every month except February, sometimes 6% or more, according to the U.S. Department of Commerce. In Q3, apparel retailers including Gap Inc., Urban Outfitters Inc., Abercrombie & Fitch Co. and American Eagle Outfitters posted results that defied analyst expectations.

Yes, the rumors are true—the United States might actually get a federal privacy law. Introduced in June, the American Data Privacy Protection Act (ADPPA) actually has bipartisan support, though there are a few kinks to work out. But one section of the bill, which is now eligible for a floor vote in the House, could fundamentally change how consumer privacy is protected and enforced in the US: the proposed creation of a Bureau of Privacy, which would be a part of the Federal Trade Commission, broadening the scope and definition of how the regulator could enforce the law. “It would dramatically elevate the profile of privacy in this country and the agency internationally,” Daniel Kaufman, a partner at BakerHostetler who previously held several roles at the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection, said during a LinkedIn Live hosted by the International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP). “It’s almost limitless in terms of what the FTC can do.”

Omnichannel success is all about breaking down barriers between channels and building cooperation. Every company that strives for omnichannel success is trying to change from being company-centric or channel-centric to being customer-centric. In a channel-centric company, one channel typically dominates the others. In this business model, the company is more important than the customer; everything revolves around improving sales and making more money for the company. Retailers think first and foremost of their stores; other channels are an afterthought. Pure-play catalog or ecommerce companies concentrate only on their method of selling. A customer-centric business is totally oriented toward the customer. Customers decide when, where, and how they wish to shop with the company. From the customer’s perspective: *The customers control the relationship. *Customer service is seamless across all channels. *Customers see a single face/identity/voice/brand from the company, regardless of channel. *Customers have the feeling that the company cares about them and works for their loyalty. *Most if not all merchandise is available from all selling channels.