MSU Offering Free Access to Online Conference
Michigan State University Extension is now offering growers on-demand access to its 2020 nursery conference.
Ten different sessions on pest and disease management as well as water management issues can now be accessed online for free. The presentations are 20 to 60 minutes long.
Many of the presentations were created by MSU faculty and address such topics as an introduction to biological controls, disease identification and control, water treatment technologies and irrigation.
Access to the presentations is free but participants must create an account on the conference website.
To learn more about the registration process, click here to access a registration video tutorial.
Reminder
Don’t forget, we are still accepting applications for the 2021 GPN/Nexus Intern of the Year Scholarship.
If you know a college student who was able to participate in an internship program this year, please let that student know the deadline for submissions is Oct. 16, 2020.
Click here to learn more about the scholarship program
Lowe’s Adds Lockers for Contactless Purchase Pickup
To continue to improve the contactless delivery experience for customers who are increasingly shopping online, Lowe’s plans to install pickup lockers at all U.S. stores by the end of March 2021. The addition of Buy Online Pickup In Store (BOPIS) self-service lockers at more than 1,700 stores provides a safe, contactless way for customers to collect same-day online orders. With the increased demand for contactless services due to the pandemic, Lowe’s lockers will eliminate checkout time for customers and allow them direct access to pick up their orders and get in and out of the store faster during the busy holiday season. Lowe’s plans to have the lockers installed in most major markets by Thanksgiving.
Walmart Preps for ‘New Normal’ Holiday Season
As the holiday season approaches, Walmart is adapting to meet the evolving needs of its customers who plan to shop differently this year. The retailer will address three key shopping trends this holiday season: an increase in online shopping, evolving wish lists and the need for fast, easy — and safe — shopping. This includes hiring more than 20,000 seasonal associates in its e-commerce fulfillment centers. The retailer also will increase the availability of unexpected holiday gifts that reflect lifestyles in this “new normal.” And, Walmart will continue to help ensure a safe in-store shopping experience with reduced store hours, required face coverings and contactless pickup and delivery services.
Tractor Supply Hits New Store Milestone
Tractor Supply Co. recently opened its 1,900th store located in Oakhurst, California. In recognition of the occasion and the hardships local communities face, the company donated $50,000 to support organizations battling nearby wildfires. “We’re excited to continue to expand our footprint. I would like to thank our 38,000 Tractor Supply Team Members for their commitment to serving our customers and living our Mission and Values each day,” said John Ordus, Tractor Supply’s chief stores officer. The retailer also was recently included on Forbes’ 2020 “America’s Best Employers for New Graduates” list. This is Tractor Supply’s first time to be named to the annual list.
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