NEW YORK — Americans pulled back their spending more than expected in January after the traditional holiday season splurge, Commerce Department data showed Feb. 15.

Kroger Co. is in talks about a tie-up with rival Albertsons Cos. in a deal that would create a U.S. grocery giant, people familiar with the matter said.

U.S. online shoppers looking to stock up for the holidays are finding that virtual store shelves keep getting emptier.

NEW YORK — Something will be missing at two Whole Foods stores opening next year: cashiers.

Even after doling out discounts on electronics and clothes, retailers struggled to entice shoppers to Black Friday sales events, putting pressure on the industry as it heads into the final weeks of the holiday season.