1. The article's headline is obviously hyperbole meant to catch your attention. I guess the future of journalism is exaggerated headlines!
2. I replied to Michael that the author is likely wrong about stores streamlining their spaces.
Studies have shown that customers SAY they want streamlined stores, but rather prefer and buy more in cluttered stores. as an result, Walmart stores with more clutter sell more. They actually had to re-clutter them after trying to streamline them. a classic example is William-Wayne in NYC. $100 plates stacked on the floor 3' high. They do great business. Please find the NY Times article about this here: https://marketplace.bridgecatalog.com/chalkboard.cfm?id=6011
The author touches on why streamlined stores won't work in his 3rd point: "juicy bait hooks." He says stores will lure passerbys with deals. Well, how about luring people already in your store by putting stuff in their way? This sales strategy is proven to work. Juicy bait hooks already exist: they stand between you and the door when you walk around the store.