Men's Journal's Blog, page 67
June 28, 2025
Walmart Explains Why It's Opening Unusual New Stores
Walmart is one of the biggest retailers in the world.
The company has more than 10,750 stores in 19 countries, not to mention its popular e-commerce websites.
However, the massive chain is testing out a unique and new store concept.
Now the company has given a statement explaining why it is trying out "dark stores."
Walmart revealed that it's all part of an effort to "regularly test new tools."
"We regularly test new tools, features, and capabilities to better connect with and serve our customers—wherever and however they choose to shop," a Walmart spokesperson told 5 News Online.
"Regardless of the channel, our goal remains the same: to deliver a fast, seamless, and engaging customer experience," Walmart told the television station.
According to USA Today, it's called a "dark store."
What is a Walmart "dark store"?
The "dark stores" look like a typical Walmart inside, USA Today reported, but there's "no signage," and they're not open to the public.
Instead, they're being tried out as a "better way to fulfill online orders," USA Today reported.
The first dark store is in Dallas, according to USA Today, which cited a "person knowledgeable about the situation" for the information.
The store "has many of the most popular products ordered online by customers," according to USA Today.
One of the dark stores in coming to Bentonville, AK, according to 5 News Online.
The company's headquarters are located in Bentonville.
Walmart 's goal is to speed up delivery, the site reported, adding that other locations may be added eventually.
Walmart is also expanding its "drone delivery services," according to 5 News Online.
According to News Nation, people will pay more for faster deliver, and Walmart is trying to compete with companies like Amazon. Furthermore, dark stores can help a company reduce inventory, News Nation reported.
Major U.S. Airport Cancels Nearly 400 Flights Amid Busy July 4th Travel
Nearly 400 flights were canceled Saturday at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, one of the world’s busiest air travel hubs, after severe thunderstorms and hail pummeled the area overnight.
ABC News reported that the powerful storm system triggered ground stops, 90 flight diversions, and even a temporary evacuation of the airport’s air traffic control tower. High winds, lightning, and quarter-inch hail moved through Friday evening, bringing operations to a halt and creating ripple effects into the weekend.
The majority of the disruptions were tied to Delta Air Lines, which canceled around 380 flights and conducted emergency inspections on nearly 100 aircraft for potential hail damage.
Most of the planes were cleared to return to service by Saturday morning, but the airline warned of continuing delays as crews worked to normalize schedules.
“Delta people are working as safely and quickly as possible to recover flights impacted by thunderstorms, lightning, hail, and winds at our Atlanta hub Friday night,” the airline said in a statement. “We thank our customers for their continued patience and understanding.”
The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed that the air traffic control tower at Hartsfield-Jackson was briefly evacuated Friday night due to intense wind conditions. ATC audio revealed that just three personnel, one controller, a supervisor, and a traffic manager, remained behind to handle limited operations.
The storm forced a cascade of diversions across the Southeast, delaying hundreds of passengers and stranding others overnight. Social media was flooded with photos of crowded terminals and travelers waiting on answers as the weather passed.
Though the skies began to clear Saturday morning, the damage was already done. Travelers were advised to check with airlines before heading to the airport, as residual delays and rescheduled flights were expected to continue through the day.
With peak summer travel in full swing, the sudden disruption served as a reminder of how vulnerable even the most sophisticated airport systems are to severe weather.
Related: The Unexpected Reason Airlines Are Canceling Flights at Major U.S. Airport
Angel Reese Has Four-Word Reaction to Brother Signing NBA Contract
Chicago Sky and WNBA star Angel Reese's brother is going to get an opportunity in the NBA.
Reese's brother, Julian Reese, is signing with the Los Angeles Lakers, the Maryland Men's Basketball X account tweeted on Friday. Reese went undrafted after playing college ball with the Terrapins.
The contract will give the 6-foot-9 Terrapins star an opportunity to play in the NBA's Summer League with the Lakers, where he'll look to earn an invite to training camp.
The Lakers, who play their first Summer League game on July 10, currently lack depth in the big-man department, so Los Angeles is a strong landing spot for him.
Shortly after news broke of her brother's signing, Angel took to X to share her reaction.
"OPPORTUNITY. COME ON JU," Reese posted.
Julian Reese of the Maryland Terrapins drives to the basket.Ezra Shaw/Getty Images
Reese had a successful career at Maryland, where he finished top 10 in school history in total rebounds, field goal percentage and blocks. He posted over 1,000 career points and rebounds over four years.
For his senior season, Reese finished with 13.3 points, 9.0 rebounds and 1.5 blocks.
While Julian looks to carve out a spot on the Lakers, Angel is already a big deal in the WNBA, serving as one of the league's most polarizing figures.
Angel is an elite rebounder and has garnered extra attention for several reasons, with the biggest one being her feud with Indiana Fever star, Caitlin Clark, which dates back to their days in college.
Related: ESPN Getting Roasted for Showing Angel Reese Highlight
June 27, 2025
McDonald’s Just Brought Back Legendary Blueberry & Crème Pie Without Telling Anyone
While McDonald’s fans are counting down the days until the official return of the beloved Snack Wrap on July 10, the Golden Arches just pulled a fast one.
A different favorite, one that rarely gets the spotlight, is quietly popping back onto menus in select locations. And for dessert lovers, it’s the kind of news worth dropping everything for.
The Blueberry & Crème Pie, a warm, fruity, and creamy handheld pastry, is back, but only in certain markets, and without a formal announcement, according to Allrecipes. It’s not as hyped as the Shamrock Shake or the Holiday Pie, but for longtime fans, this one’s elite.
The pie features side-by-side layers of sweet blueberry filling and smooth vanilla-flavored crème tucked into McDonald’s signature flaky crust. Served hot and golden, it hits that perfect balance of tangy and sweet without being overpowering. And it’s exactly the kind of comfort food that feels right for summer.
The last time most people saw this pie on the menu was back in January 2023. Since then, it’s disappeared without a clear seasonal pattern, making its return feel more like a hidden treasure hunt than a scheduled comeback. But eagle-eyed fans are already spotting it again.
One social media foodie was among the first to report a sighting in Boston, and within hours, comments flooded in from people finding it in states like Utah and South Carolina.
@snachwithzachHere are some new fast food releases to kick off your week! McDonald’s has brought back the Blueberry & Creme Pie at select locations, cheesesteaks are back at Arby’s, Jimmy John’s is offering a Walton Goggins romantasy audio book (BEACHREADS), Bojangles has a sausage, egg, & cheese Breakfast Bo-rito with Bo-Rounds in it, Krispy Kreme is going ‘Murica on its donuts for Independence Day, Taco Bell and Tony Hawk are teaming up for a Luxe Cravings Box and skateboard deck drop, Hungry Howie’s is going ghost pepper on its pizza and breadsticks, and Firehouse Subs taps into Carolina Gold Fever with the return of the Smokin’ Triple Stack. Are you looking forward to any of these new fast food releases? #foodnews#fastfood#mcdonalds#tacobell#foodtok#jimmyjohns#sandwich#donuts#bojangles#restaurant#fyp
♬ original sound - snachwithzach
“These are my favorite,” one user wrote. Another said, “One of the best desserts McDonald’s ever made.”
Unfortunately, not every store is lucky enough to get them. There’s no national rollout, and no press release. Just a quiet reappearance that’s spreading by word of mouth and app sightings. Your best bet? Check the McDonald’s app or call your local store before making the trip.
Because if this pie is in stock near you, trust us. It won’t be for long.
You Don’t Have to Post It for Facebook to Scan It
Facebook is rolling out a new AI feature that may give it deeper access to your phone than ever before, and most users won’t realize what they’re agreeing to.
The tech giant is now prompting some users to allow “cloud processing” of their camera roll, a move that enables Facebook to scan and upload photos stored on your device on an ongoing basis, according to Straight Arrow News.
The company says the goal is to generate AI-enhanced content, like themed collages and stylized memories. But privacy advocates see something more invasive.
The prompt, which appears when users attempt to create a new story, touts the feature as a way to “curate the best of your camera roll.”
But once you opt in, Facebook can continuously access photos based on time, location, and even who or what is in the picture. That includes photos you’ve never shared on the platform.
Facebook insists this data won’t be used for ad targeting, but the fine print tells a different story. According to Meta’s terms, any image processed by its AI can be analyzed and retained, along with the prompts or feedback users provide. This content can be used to generate new material or refine the platform’s AI tools.
Related: Experts Warn of AI’s Self-Preservation Tactics in New Tests
While users can toggle off the feature in settings under “camera roll sharing suggestions,” many may not know it’s even active. It’s unclear how many users have enabled it, or if they understand the long-term implications.
This comes on the heels of Meta’s recent legal win in a copyright case brought by authors who claimed the company trained its AI on their books. Though the case was dismissed, it highlights growing unease around how companies collect and use creative content in training datasets.
With so much of our lives stored in the photos we don’t share, Facebook’s new feature feels less like a tool and more like a test of how much we’re willing to give away without realizing it.
Related: Is Eminem About to Cost Meta Millions? His New Lawsuit Could Change the Game
Iconic Red Robin Closes Dozens of Restaurants to Stay Affordable
As inflation continues to squeeze the restaurant industry, one iconic burger chain is taking a different route, opting to close underperforming locations rather than raise menu prices.
The chain, known for its bottomless fries and stacked burgers, plans to shut down up to 15 restaurants in 2025, according to the Street. Long-term, as many as 70 closures could be on the table. But while the footprint is shrinking, leadership is holding firm on one point: prices are staying put for the rest of the year.
It's a bold move in a market where most competitors are quietly raising prices to offset rising ingredient and labor costs.
McDonald’s, for example, has seen some menu prices double since 2014. This sit-down chain, however, is making a calculated bet that keeping meals affordable will keep customers coming back.
“We are not planning any menu price increases in the remainder of 2025,” CFO Todd Wilson said during a recent earnings call. He credited stronger-than-expected cost savings and operational efficiency for making that possible—despite looming tariff pressures.
The closures are being handled methodically, largely timed with lease expirations to minimize financial damage. But reducing the number of locations is just one part of the turnaround strategy.
The company has also invested heavily in its loyalty program, and the payoff is already visible. With more than 15 million members, the program is driving visits from both new customers and lapsed diners. Wilson reported that 22% of recent visits came from guests who hadn’t been back in a while, and nearly 20% were first-timers.
CEO David Pace sees even more upside ahead. “We’re just getting better at how we use the program,” he said. “There’s still significant opportunity here.”
As other chains focus on price hikes and deep cuts, this burger brand is making a different kind of play—one rooted in value, loyalty, and long-term trust. Whether the strategy can outlast economic headwinds remains to be seen. But in a brutal industry, holding the line might just make the difference.
Related: Beloved Sandwich Chain Rocked by Franchise Bankruptcy Filing After Closing 600 Stores
Beloved Sandwich Chain Rocked by Franchise Bankruptcy Filing After Closing 600 Stores
Subway, once hailed as America’s most beloved sandwich chain, is reeling from another blow. A major franchisee has filed for bankruptcy, highlighting the mounting pressure facing fast food in today’s economy.
The Street reported that CGA Corporation, a Montebello, CA-based Subway operator, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on June 25. It listed up to $100,000 in assets and as much as $500,000 in liabilities.
While the company didn’t explain the filing, the bigger picture tells the story: the fast-food industry is being squeezed from all sides.
Subway has shuttered over 600 locations in the past year alone, struggling to keep pace in a crowded and competitive market. Once the largest fast-food chain in the world by number of outlets, Subway is now watching rivals like Jersey Mike’s and Jimmy John’s chip away at its market share.
Rising ingredient costs and slowing foot traffic are compounding the problem. Inflation has driven many consumers to eat at home, and fast-food giants from McDonald’s to Burger King are slashing prices just to stay in the game. Even McDonald’s iconic Big Mac meal has doubled in price since 2014.
Then there’s the brand trust issue. Subway has weathered years of scrutiny from questions about the authenticity of its tuna to claims that its bread didn’t legally qualify as bread. While the chain has repeatedly defended its products, the headlines haven’t helped.
The CGA bankruptcy underscores just how fragile the current fast-food landscape is. Local operators are bearing the brunt of rising costs and shrinking margins. If one of the most recognized names in fast food is struggling to keep its franchisees afloat, the rest of the industry may not be far behind.
As Subway fights to reinvent itself, the bigger question remains: can a once-beloved sandwich empire adapt fast enough to survive this shakeup?
Related: Subway’s New Happy Gilmore Meal Comes With More Than Just Sandwiches
Why Thousands Are Risking DIY Weight-Loss Injections
High prices and limited insurance coverage have driven a growing number of Americans to seek weight-loss solutions outside the doctor’s office and the law. Online forums, encrypted chat groups, and underground vendors are fueling a gray market for injectable obesity drugs, often sourced from unregulated suppliers overseas.
At the heart of this trend are popular medications like tirzepatide and semaglutide, the active ingredients in brand-name drugs Zepbound and Wegovy, according to a Reuters report.
These GLP-1 receptor agonists are known to suppress appetite, reduce blood sugar, and promote significant weight loss. But the official versions can cost hundreds—sometimes over $1,000—per month without adequate insurance. Many aren’t willing or able to foot that bill.
Instead, buyers are turning to websites and social media channels that sell raw powders labeled “for research use only.” Users mix these substances at home with sterile water, carefully calculate their doses, and inject themselves, often without medical supervision. Some even coordinate group lab tests to verify the drug’s purity, relying on the results as a sort of crowdsourced quality control.
It’s a risky workaround. Public health officials warn that these unapproved drugs may contain contaminants, incorrect dosages, or unknown substances. And without FDA oversight, there’s no guarantee of sterility, stability, or safety.
One miscalculation or bad batch could mean serious side effects or worse.
Despite that, the movement is growing fast. A Telegram forum called StairwayToGray recently surpassed 21,000 members. Reddit threads dedicated to GLP-1 microdosing regularly see users trading tips on sourcing, injecting, and navigating customs loopholes.
Experts say the rise of this DIY model highlights deep cracks in the U.S. healthcare system. Nearly three-quarters of American adults are overweight or obese, yet only a fraction have access to affordable medical treatments. Until that gap is addressed, the line between health hack and health hazard will continue to blur.
For now, thousands continue to self-administer these powerful drugs, trusting anonymous peers, third-party test results, and their own calculations instead of the system.
Related: Mark Cuban Just Dropped a Wild Healthcare Plan That Might Actually Work
REI Is Selling a 'Super Comfy' Sleeping Bag with a Nearly Perfect Rating for Just $70, But Only for a Limited Time
Men’s Journal aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.
For many Americans, summer is made for just two things: Camping and Independence Day. That’s why the REI Fourth of July Sale is so important. We’ve already found a killer tent deal and a bargain on a very safe biking helmet, but no summer can be complete without one of the best sleeping bags. Which is why you’ll want to take a look at this one that’s 30% off until July 7.
The REI Co-op Trailmade 20 Sleeping Bag is marked down to $70 during this sale. It comes in multiple lengths and widths to fit your body, as well as two color variations which are both on sale for this price. 44 out of 50 reviewers recommend the Trailmade 20 and it has achieved a perfect score for its “Ease of Use” according to customer ratings.
REI Co-op Trailmade 20 Sleeping Bag, $70 (was $100) at REI
The REI Co-op Trailmade 20 Sleeping Bag.
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The Trailmade 20 is a mummy-shaped sleeping bag with a water-resistant polyester shell and interior fill, for failsafe dryness and comfort. Its head is reminiscent of a hoodie to help you keep out cool nighttime winds and will certainly fit well with the REI Co-op Trailmade Mummy Bag Pillow if you have it, but most other sleeping bag pillows will work, too. One special feature of the Trailmade 20 is its exterior zip pouch, perfect for keeping your flashlight and other nighttime essentials at hand’s reach.
One shopper described using the bag in typical camping conditions. “This bag is beautiful and comfortable. I did not get to test its cold factor but did enjoy two nights in 50 degree weather and I was not too cold, not too hot, just right!”
REI Co-op Trailmade 20 Sleeping Bag, $70 (was $100) at REI
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Another shopper shared a potential nightmare scenario, saved by the bag, “My canoe tipped but the sleeping bag stayed dry!” They went on to say, “I cannot speak highly enough of this product—it's super comfy, cozy, and has been super reliable for all of my camping trips.”
The REI Co-op Trailmade 20 Sleeping Bag will be on sale for just $70 until the sale ends on Jul. 7. But, your size could sell out at any time, so don’t wait until the last minute to make this purchase.
Our Favorite Head Shaver for a ‘Slick’ Finish Is 85% Off
Men’s Journal aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.
If you want a smooth head, whether you're embracing baldness or because women find a bald head attractive, you’ll need a head shaver. We’ve just recently collected our favorite head shavers, with products from brands like Remington and Braun. For really close shaves we recommended this 7D head shaver from Shpavver, which now happens to be an incredible 85% off at Amazon right now.
The Shpavver 7D Head Shaver is down to just $40 for a limited time. In addition to being our recommendation, it’s Amazon’s No. 1 bestseller for men’s rotary shavers and has nearly 8,000 perfect ratings on the site. This deal, which represents a savings of $225 off of the shaver’s original $265 price, won’t last forever, so be sure to get yours as soon as possible.
Shpavver 7D Head Shaver, $40 (was $265) at Amazon
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The Shpavver 7D was picked for its ability to create a super-close shave and create an “almost slick” bald finish. It does this through its seven flexible heads that work with the contours and shape of your head to get every last bit of it. We also liked it for its 90 minute battery life and the fact that it is IPX7, which means it is shower safe. Lastly, the kit is pretty expansive and comes with everything you need to shave your face, trim your sideburns, get pesky nose hairs, and get a massage, too. There’s really no surprise as to why this shaver is so well-received.
One shopper talked about how pleasantly surprised they were by the shaver’s performance. “This shaver performs excellent for what it does and advertises, with the 7D Magnetic Floating Head you will shave your head in less than 4 minutes (depending on how much hair is on your head).”
Another shopper called the shaver an “impressive all-in-one grooming kit” and said, “My husband has been using the Shpavver 5-in-1 Electric Razor for a few weeks now, and I’m genuinely impressed by how convenient and efficient it is. As someone who shaves their head regularly, he was looking for a reliable rotary shaver that could handle daily grooming without causing irritation—and this one absolutely delivers.”
This incredibly popular head shaver is 85% off, an incredible deal considering it usually costs over $200. Get yours for $40 before it sells out.
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