Retail sales rose 0.6 percent in December, according to the U.S. Commerce Department, showing a relatively flat holiday spending period after a 0.2 rise in November. However, online retailers in particular reported better sales, indicating a growing need for the integration of e-commerce and use of real-time data within retailers' customer experience, according to IT consulting company Syntel.

Amazon's U.S. patent for one-click payments will expire this year, allowing other retailers to incorporate the same technology on their websites.

DHL eCommerce, a division of Deutsche Post DHL Group, has launched a fulfillment center in Sydney to meet Australian domestic demand for overseas goods ordered by online shoppers, the company says.

Wal-Mart Stores Inc. is overhauling its e-commerce team and elevating executives from its recently acquired Jet.com business, aiming to better challenge Amazon.com Inc.with more selection and lower prices.

Tompkins International, a supply chain and fulfillment consultant, is launching the MonarchFx Alliance, a consortium of technology and service providers designed for faster, more efficient e-commerce fulfillment across sectors, Tompkins says.

Kohl's Corp. has found loyalty to be "the most important differentiator for us in the marketplace," says CEO Kevin Mansell, and this loyalty is being driven by technology.