Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. I'm a freelance writer specializing in retail and ecommerce. Brick-and-mortar retail is back on the rise. Store openings now ...

“Pierced by Claire’s” is a new visual identity and marketing effort — which includes TV ads and the potential for free earrings. Claire’s is ready to help the next generation get their ears pierced.

When Eva Nieto went to school for piercing and branding in 2002, she thought it may have been of waste of her time and money--at least for the branding portion. Nieto was interested in branding but ...