Google Wallet has a lot to overcome. Not even a year old as of this writing, it has already weathered enough bad news to capsize less well-supported projects. Google continues to invest in it, though, and seems committed to sticking with Wallet until it succeeds.

JCPenney (JCP) CEO Ron Johnson promised to build on his successes as a retailer at Target and Apple to re-fashion the long-faltering department chain. Whether he's eventually judged successful or not, credit Johnson for a serious effort.

"I hate waiting in checkout lines" has its own Facebook page. So does "I Hate Self Checkout!!!" Are your customers stuck in those negative vibes?