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Departmental Stores

Macy’s to award the sweetest tweet

NEW YORK (Jan. 28) Macy’s announced that it will award the most romantic tweeter with the gift of diamonds.

From Feb. 1 to Feb. 13, Twitter users who tweet the sweet messages using the hash tag #SweetestTweets, will be eligible to win a diamond pendant set. On Feb. 14, Macy’s said it will award the author of the most romantic tweet the grand prize of a three-stone diamond ring.

Sears recognized for online community program

New York City ( January 28, 2010 ) Sears’ MySears has been ranked No. 4 out of the top five branded communities and the No. 1 retail branded site in North America, according to study conducted by ComBlu on behalf of the Word of Mouth Marketing Association.

Sony, AT&T, YouTube and Bank of America were also in the top five.

Macy’s to cut 1,500 store-level jobs

Cincinnati ( January 28, 2010 ) Macy’s is said to be cutting 1,500 jobs effective March 6, according to a Bloomberg report, which cited two people familiar with the matter.

The affected jobs are store-level positions. Earlier this month, Macy’s said it was closing five of its namesake department stores, affecting about 307 employees, as it pares underperforming locations

Nordstrom to open Rack outlet in downtown Chicago

Seattle ( January 22, 2010 ) Nordstrom will open a Nordstrom Rack discount outlet in downtown Chicago this fall.

The 36,000-sq.-ft. store, located on East Chicago Avenue between North Michigan Avenue and North Rush Street, is due to open in fall 2010. It will be the second Nordstrom Rack location in downtown Chicago and its seventh in the Chicago area. The retailer operates a full-line store about a mile away on Michigan Avenue.

Drug Stores

Rite Aid reports same-store, total sales drops

Camp Hill, Pa. ( January 28, 2010 ) Rite Aid Corp. said Tuesday that same-store sales dipped 2.1% in January.

Total sales for the four-week period decreased 3.3% to $1.913 billion, compared with $1.978 billion for the same period last year.

Walgreens buys three pharmacies in Puerto Rico

San Juan ( January 22, 2010 ) Walgreens announced an agreement to acquire three El Amal pharmacies in Puerto Rico. The pharmacies located at Rio Grande Shopping Center, Salinas Shopping Center, and Plaza Las Americas are expected to transition to Walgreens by the end of February.

In addition, Walgreens has agreed to purchase prescription files associated with 11 El Amal pharmacies.

Apparel Stores

Bebe stores enters into strategic licensing agreement for handbag, leather collection

New York City ( January 28, 2010 ) Bebe Stores has entered into a three-year strategic licensing agreement with Accessory Network Group, LLC, to design, manufacture and distribute a full lifestyle offering of handbags and small leather goods to select department & specialty stores worldwide, as well as Bebe retail stores and bebe.com.

The collection, slated to launch in fall 2010, will be targeted for wholesale distribution to upscale stores such as Macy’s, Lord & Taylor, Dillard’s and Nordstrom, as well as better specialty stores and select e-commerce sites.

Destination Maternity reports improved Q1 results on lower sales

Philadelphia ( January 28, 2010 ) Destination Maternity Corp. said Thursday that its net income for the 2010 first quarter ended Dec. 31 was $1.3 million, compared with a net loss of $46.9 million in the year-ago period.

Net sales for the quarter dipped 0.8% to $133.8 million, from $134.8 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2009. The sales dip was attributed to a decrease in comp-store sales partially offset by better performance from the retailer’s leased department relationships, increased Internet sales and increased sales from international franchise relationships.

A&F partners with Digby to launch mobile storefront

Columbus, Ohio ( January 27, 2010 ) Abercrombie & Fitch signed a deal with mobile commerce developer Digby signed a deal to build the retailer’s cellphone storefront.

Digby will manage and operate the cellphone-optimized Web sites for the clothing retailer’s Abercrombie & Fitch and Hollister Co. brands

K&G Fashion Superstore selects loss prevention, security solution

Atlanta ( January 27, 2010 ) K&G Fashion Superstore, a subsidiary of The Men’s Wearhouse in the United States and an affiliate of Moore’s Clothing for Men in Canada, has selected ADT Security Services to provide loss prevention and security solutions for all of its 107 stores nationwide.

The retailer is replacing existing anti-theft systems with ADT’s Sensormatic anti-theft solutions to help protect merchandise and limit losses due to shoplifting and theft.

Filene’s Chapter 11 plan confirmed

Wilmington, Del. ( January 26, 2010 ) Abacus Advisors LLC announced Tuesday that FB Liquidating Estate (formerly known as Filene’s Basement) confirmed its chapter 11 plan and will soon make an initial distribution to unsecured creditors of the bankrupt retailer, whose trade name, leases and other assets were sold to an affiliate of Syms Corp. last June for approximately $64 million.

The announcement follows an earlier confirmation of the Joint Plan of Liquidation of FB Liquidating Estate by Judge Mary F. Walrath in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware.

Sheplers Western Wear names CEO

Wichita, Kan. ( January 26, 2010 ) Former QVC executive Bob Myers has been hired as CEO for Sheplers Western Wear, according to a report by the Wichita Business Journal.

Myers replaces Dennis O’Brien, an operating partner at Gryphon Investors, who has been acting CEO since September. Gryphon is the San Francisco-based private-equity firm that owns Sheplers.

Home Improvement & Office Products

Canada’s Rona details growth strategy

Toronto ( January 28, 2010 ) Rona, Canada’s biggest home-improvement chain, plans to boost earnings per share by 10% to 15% over the next two years and bulk up its national presence by adding new stores and bringing some of its other chains under one banner.

The company, which has about 700 stores across Canada, said during an investor presentation that it would also continue its aggressive growth strategy by looking for further acquisition opportunities.

Williams-Sonoma CEO to retire

San Francisco ( January 27, 2010 ) Williams-Sonoma said its longtime chief, Howard Lester, will retire from the posts of CEO and chairman after 31 years.

After his retirement in May, Lester will continue to advise the company until December 2012 as chairman emeritus.

Home Depot to lay off 1,000 workers, shutter three stores

Atlanta ( January 26, 2010 ) On the heels of Monday’s announcement that Sam’s Club would be slashing 11,000 jobs, Home Depot said Tuesday it is cutting 1,000 jobs and closing three underperforming pilot stores.

The stores, affecting about 100 jobs, include a small-format store in Wilson, N.C.; a temporary hurricane-recovery outlet in Waveland, Miss.; and a clearance outlet in Austell, Ga.

Rooms To Go selects TD Retail Card Services for expanded card program

Mahwah, N.J. ( January 26, 2010 ) Furniture retailer Rooms To Go said Tuesday it has expanded its private-label credit-card program with TD Retail Card Services to include 53 stores in three southeastern states.

Under the agreement, the Mahwah, N.J.-based business unit of TD Bank, N.A., will now direct all facets of the program for the 130-unit chain’s showrooms in metro Atlanta, northern Florida and Louisiana.

Tuesday Morning reports rise in profits, sales, comps in Q2

Dallas ( January 26, 2010 ) Tuesday Morning Corp. reported Tuesday that net sales for the second quarter increased 6.2%, $289.6 million from $272.7 million in the year-ago period.

Comparable-store sales rose 5.1% for the quarter. Net income for the second quarter ended December 31, 2009 was $18.5 million, compared with net income of $12.7 million for the same period last year.

Lowe’s card offers points to small business customers

Las Vegas ( January 22, 2010 ) Mooresville, N.C.-based Lowe’s Cos. teamed with American Express Open to launch the Lowe’s Business Rewards Card.

The key feature of the new payment product is the ability to offer small business customers reward points. It’s the first rewards program for Lowe’s small business credit customers.

Discount Stores

Wal-Mart revamps global sourcing structure

New York City ( January 28, 2010 ) Trading company Li & Fung Ltd. said Thursday it signed a non-exclusive sourcing deal with Wal-Mart Stores with expectations that the chain could buy $2 billion worth of goods through the Hong Kong firm in the deal’s first year, according to Bloomberg. The company, which sources products for other U.S. retailers, has been doing business with Wal-Mart as a wholesaler, but this is its first direct sourcing deal.

Wal-Mart said the alliance with Li & Fung was one of several related moves designed to position the company to leverage its global scale to reduce costs of goods, accelerate speed to market, and improve the quality of products.

Big Lots, other retailers to open in south Raleigh shopping center

January 26, 2010, Discount retailer Big Lots has signed a deal to open its 10th location in the Triangle at the North/South Station shopping center in south Raleigh.

Big Lots will take 33,000 square feet left vacant when Wal-Mart moved into its new, bigger location at the Shoppes at Garner shopping center in 2008.

Kohl’s achieves 100% green power

Menomonee Falls, Wis. ( January 26, 2010 ) Kohl’s Department Stores announced Tuesday that the company has purchased enough green power to meet 100% of its purchased electricity use with an annual green power purchase of nearly 1.4 billion kilowatt-hours (kWh).

With this latest purchase of renewable energy, Kohl’s increased its ranking to No. 2 overall and among Fortune 500 companies on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s listings of top green power purchasers.

The Clinic at Walmart opens in Florida

Rockledge, Fla. ( January 25, 2010 ) The Clinic at Walmart, operated by Wuesthoff Health System, has begun a series of openings in Florida.

Its first location, which opened in December in the Walmart Supermarket in Merritt Island, marks the first of five clinics to be owned and operated by Wuestoff Health Systems.

Grocery Stores

Whole Foods offers discounts to healthy employees

Austin, Texas ( January 27, 2010 ) Whole Foods Market has announced a program called The Team Member Healthy Discount Incentive to encourage employees to live a healthy lifestyle.

The program offers increased discounts for full- and part-time employees who do not use nicotine products and satisfy certain healthy biometric criteria for blood pressure, total cholesterol (or LDL) levels and Body Mass Index (BMI).

Safeway, Excentus settle over gas rewards program

Pleasanton, Calif. ( January 27, 2010 ) Safeway and Excentus Corp said on Wednesday that they have settled all outstanding litigation between them and entered into a settlement and licensing agreement.

Excentus sued Safeway in June, alleging the grocery chain wrongly used the privately held company’s patents and other intellectual property to develop Safeway’s PowerPump gasoline rewards program.

Aldi set for big push into the local grocery market

Fort Worth, Texas ( January 26, 2010 ) With several locations nearing completion, officials of Aldi discount grocery chain announced opening dates for the store’s 11 new locations slated for Tarrant County (Fort Worth), Texas.

Report: Bankruptcy judge approves sale of Penn Traffic

Syracuse, N.Y. ( January 26, 2010 ) A U.S. Bankruptcy Court judge has approved the sale of bankrupt The Penn Traffic Co. to Tops Markets, according to a report by Syracuse.com.

Judge Peter J. Walsh signed a modified sale agreement presented to him by Penn Traffic lawyers late Monday.

Whole Foods’ Mackey pay valued at $653,671 in 2009

Austin, Texas ( January 26, 2010 ) Whole Foods Market CEO John Mackey’s compensation grew in 2009 according to a report by the Associated Press, but donated the gains to a farm-animal welfare group, standing by his commitment to keep his pay low.

Mackey voluntarily cut his salary to $1 in 2007 as the company entered a turnaround effort. He also elected to forgo earning any future cash compensation, stock awards or other options awards.

H-E-B names president

San Antonio ( January 25, 2010 ) H.E. Butt Grocery Co. appointed its chief strategic officer to serve as company president, while current lead Bob Loeffler retires.

Craig Boyan has been named H-E-B president and COO. Loeffler, who’s led the company for the last seven years, will retire, but first volunteered to cover chief administrative duties for at least two years.

Restaurant

Arby’s CEO departs company

Atlanta ( January 28, 2010 ) Tom Garrett, a longtime Arby’s executive in charge of the struggling restaurant chain, is leaving the company.

Roland Smith, president and CEO of parent company Wendy’s/Arby’s Group, will step into the role on an interim basis while the company searches for a permanent replacement. The company said Smith will attempt to lead an effort to reinvigorate sales.

NBA’s LeBron James teams with McDonald’s

Cleveland ( January 28, 2010 ) NBA superstar LeBron James has agreed to a multiyear partnership with McDonald’s Corp., adding the global fast-food giant to his list of corporate sponsors.

James will be part of TV, print and online advertising campaigns for McDonald’s, which operates over 31,000 restaurants in 119 countries.

Red Mango announces expansion plans

Dallas ( January 28, 2010 ) Red Mango has signed 42 franchisees to open a total of 219 locations.

Development agreements included further expansion in California; Utah; Nevada; Washington; Illinois; and New York, as well as entry into Arkansas; Colorado; Indiana; Kansas; Massachusetts; Missouri; New Jersey; Louisiana; Minnesota; Texas; Virginia; Wisconsin; and Washington, D.C.

O’Charley’s closes $45M credit facility

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Jan. 27, 2010) O’Charley’s Inc. said Wednesday it has amended its revolving credit facility that was set to expire next year, reducing the amount to $45 million, extending its maturity and changing covenants for additional flexibility.

The operator or franchisor of 372 restaurants under such casual-dining brands as O’Charley’s, Stoney River Legendary Steaks and Ninety Nine Restaurants, O’Charley’s closed the deal with Bank of America, Regions Bank and Wells Fargo Securities, it said Wednesday. The company’s new $45 million facility was reduced from $83 million, and will now mature in 2013, rather than October of next year.

Starbucks’ Schultz earned nearly $15 million in 2009

New York City ( January 25, 2010 ) Starbucks Corp. CEO Howard Schultz received compensation the company valued at nearly $15 million during the past fiscal year, an increase of nearly 54% as the company’s profit soared after it cut costs and jobs, according to a regulatory filing.

Schultz’s base salary declined nearly 46% to $643,594 after he requested the coffee company’s board cut his salary to $6,900. He received the reduced salary for only part of the year, from April 1 until Nov. 30. The fiscal year that is covered in the filing submitted Friday afternoon to the Securities and Exchange Commission ended Sept. 27.

Johnny Rockets appoints store development executive

Lake Forest, Calif. ( January 22, 2010 ) Johnny Rockets announced the appointment of Carl Arena as senior VP development, continuing its aggressive growth plan.

Arena will work closely with new CEO John Fuller and the heads of international and domestic franchising, to develop strategic growth plans for the global restaurant chain.

McDonald’s Q4 profit up 23%

Oakbrook, Ill. ( January 22, 2010 ) McDonald’s Corp. reported a 23% increase in fourth-quarter earnings, helped by same-store sales increases across all regions.

The fast-food giant’s profit totaled $1.22 billion for the quarter ended December 31, 2009, up from $ 985.3 million a year earlier. Revenue increased 7% to $5.97 billion. Same-store sales rose 2.3% globally.

Electronics Stores

Hhgregg to hire 100 positions

Indianapolis ( January 25, 2010 ) Hhgregg expects to hire about 50 employees for each new store.

Hhgregg expects to hire about 50 employees for each new store

Dollar Stores, Warehouse Club & Other Retailers

Tractor Supply reports Q4 profit surge, beats Street

Brentwood, Tenn. ( January 28, 2010 ) Tractor Supply Co. reported late Wednesday that its profit jumped 55% in the fourth quarter as sales rose and it got a boost from the way it calculates the value of its inventory.

In the quarter that ended Dec. 26, Tractor Supply earned $38.3 million, compared with a profit of $24.7 million in the year-ago period.

Report: Movie Gallery to file bankruptcy

Wilsonville, Ore. ( January 28, 2010 ) A late Wednesday report by Wall Street Journal said that Movie Gallery will file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy as early as next week.

The filing will mark the second time in two years the owner of Hollywood Video stores has sought protection from creditors. Movie Gallery has not yet responded publicly, but WSJ cited people familiar with the matter as saying Movie Gallery could seek Chapter 11 protection from creditors as soon as Tuesday of next week, and that it could try to close about two-thirds of its outlets, or 1,800 stores. Those closures could lead to significant job losses at the company, which employs about 21,000 people.

United Natural Foods awarded EPA’s Energy Star Rating for its distribution facility

Providence, R.I. ( January 28, 2010 ) United Natural Foods’ Chesterfield, N.H., distribution center has been awarded the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Energy Star rating, marking it as one of the most efficient distribution facilities in the nation for superior energy efficiency and environmental protection. Energy Star is a leading national metric for evaluating building energy efficiency.

To qualify, the Chesterfield facility had to place among the top 25% of the most energy-efficient facilities in the U.S. Buildings that earn the Energy Star rating typically utilize 35% less energy and emit 35% less CO2 into the atmosphere when compared with average buildings. Additionally, the facility meets or exceeds standards for thermal comfort, indoor air quality and luminance levels.

JDA Software completes acquisition of i2 Technologies

Scottsdale, Ariz. ( January 28, 2010 ) JDA Software Group has completed the acquisition of i2 Technologies in a transaction valued at approximately $604 million.

JDA said the move solidifies its position as one of the leading providers of supply chain management and pricing solutions, with the addition of i2’s 400-plus customers and robust, patented manufacturing, supply chain, retail and transportation solutions.

Report: Borders cuts corporate staff by 10%

New York City ( January 28, 2010 ) Borders has let go 124 corporate employees, about 10% of its corporate staff, the New York Times reported.

The company, which announced the resignation of its chief executive, Ron Marshall, on Tuesday, also laid off 40 workers in two warehouse facilities in Nashville, Tenn., and Mira Loma, Calif., the report said.

Yankee Candle exec leaves company

Deerfield, Mass. ( January 27, 2010 ) A former executive from Bath & Body Works is leaving Yankee Candle Co., where has he spent more than four years.

Yankee Candle said in a recent regulatory filing that Richard Ruffolo, its senior VP brand marketing and innovation, is scheduled to depart the company on Feb. 3.

Golfsmith details store plans for 2010

Austin, Texas ( January 27, 2010 ) Golfsmith International Holdings discussed plans on Wednesday to open four new stores in 2010 and retrofit several additional stores.

“In 2009 we experienced solid market share growth and dramatically improved cash flow in a tough economic climate,” said Marty Hanaka, president and CEO of Golfsmith. “We know that our new stores will inspire golfers more than any other golf retailer to play better and enjoy life more. We continue to build momentum and these new stores are just the beginning and are a key part of our strategic growth plans.”

Dick’s Sporting Goods ups Q4, 2009 profit outlooks

Pittsburgh ( January 27, 2010 ) Dick’s Sporting Goods lifted its fourth-quarter and full-year profit outlook Wednesday after sales jumped late in the year.

Dick’s said sales at stores open at least a year began to improve during the last week of November and grew stronger over the crucial holiday selling period.

Costco named 2009 Sustainable Grocer of the Year

Indianapolis ( January 27, 2010 ) SustainableGrocer.com, which monitors sustainability practices within the food and grocery retail sector, has selected Costco as the 2009 Sustainable Grocer of the Year.

SustainableGrocer.com found that Costco has proven to be an industry leader in the following areas: Efforts in energy reduction; substantial organic food offerings; recycling programs; buying practices; and corporate social responsibility.

Netflix profit surges 36% in Q4

San Francisco ( January 27, 2010 ) Netflix’s fourth-quarter profit grew 36% as its DVD-by-mail service surpassed 12 million subscribers.

The results announced Wednesday reflect the growing popularity of Netflix plans that bundle DVD rentals with unlimited video streaming over the Internet for as little as $9 per month.

Former Borders CEO to lead A&P

Montvale, N.J. ( January 27, 2010 ) The Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Co. announced that Ron Marshall will assume the role of president and CEO, effective Feb. 8.

Marshall joins the supermarket chain from Borders Group, where he most recently served as CEO, president and director. He has also worked in executive positions at Nash Finch and Pathmark.

Disney Store names North American marketing VP

Pasadena, Calif. ( January 27, 2010 ) Disney Store has named Damon Whiteside VP marketing for Disney Store North America.

In his new role, Whiteside will oversee key global marketing initiatives and lead the North American marketing strategy through in-store brand positioning, franchise and synergy development.

Sherwin-Williams profit up 30% in Q4

Cleveland ( January 27, 2010 ) Sherwin-Williams Co. announced that its fourth-quarter profit rose 30% as it cut costs, but sales of its popular paint products slowed, dragging down revenue.

Chairman and CEO Christopher M. Connor said the company was “encouraged by our earnings performance in the last half of the year resulting primarily from the appropriate steps taken by our operating segments to control costs and improve efficiencies.”

Blockbuster rolls out RedPrairie HR solution

Milwaukee ( January 26, 2010 ) RedPrairie Holding said Tuesday that Blockbuster has completed its rollout of RedPrairie’s Execution Management solution in 500 stores.

Blockbuster completed the rollout in 10 weeks, and said it plans to implement the solution in its remaining stores.

Borders chief resigns

Ann Arbor, Mich. ( January 26, 2010 ) Borders Group said Tuesday that Ron Marshall has resigned as CEO, president and director, effective immediately.

The book retailer said that Marshall is leaving to assume the post of CEO at another publicly held retailer. He will assist Borders in the process of transitioning to new leadership.

Sam’s Club to shed 11,000 jobs as it outsources in-store sampling duties

Bentonville, Ark. ( January 25, 2010 ) Wal-Mart Stores will cut about 11,200 jobs at Sam’s Club warehouses as it turns over the task of in-store product demonstrations to Shopper Events, an outside marketing company.

The cuts represent about 10% of the warehouse club operator’s 110,000 staffers across its 600 stores. That includes 10,000 workers, mostly part-timers, who offer food samples and showcase products to customers. The company also eliminated 1,200 workers who recruit new members.

General

NRF: Job creation key to retail turnaround

New York City ( January 28, 2010 ) Following President Obama’s State of the Union address Wednesday night, the National Retail Federation issued a statement saying it welcomed the president’s emphasis on job creation, and that jobs are the key to economic turnaround for retail.

“President Obama’s focus on the economy and job creation needs to be Washington’s highest priority,” said NRF president and CEO Tracy Mullin.

Report sees big uptick in use of ‘smart’ electricity meters

Scottsdale, Ariz. ( January 28, 2010 ) “Smart” electricity meters, which enable two-way communication between the meter and the utility, and may enable greater consumer control over consumption, are being deployed at an increasing pace, especially in North America and Europe.

According to a new study from ABI Research, the number of smart electric meters deployed worldwide will rise from a 2009 level of 76 million to about 212 million in 2014.

Report: 33% of online shoppers reported Web slowdowns during holiday season

Detroit ( January 27, 2010 ) A third of online shoppers had a bad experience on a retail Web site during the recent 2009 holiday shopping season and 15% found the problem to be “unacceptable,” according to a survey conducted by Equation Research on behalf of Gomez, whose services test and monitor the performance of Web sites.

These bad online experiences caused nearly one in five online shoppers to shop at another site. In general, 41% of online shoppers will only tolerate one or two bad online experiences before abandoning a retailer’s Web site, the report found.

New retail, FBI partnership provides crime retail data to law enforcement officers

Washington, D.C. ( January 27, 2010 ) Hundreds of thousands of law enforcement officers around the country will gain instant access to information on retail crime through a new partnership between retailers and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the National Retail Federation announced today.

Through the FBI’s Law Enforcement Online network (leo.org) federal and local law enforcement will be able to directly connect to the retail industry’s Law Enforcement Retail Partnership Network, or LERPnet (lerpnet.com), a secure national database where retailers track and report retail crimes.

Weekly sales rise 1.9%

New York City ( January 26, 2010 ) A report released Tuesday by the International Council of Shopping Centers and Goldman Sachs said that chain-store sales for the week ended Jan. 23 rose 1.9% from the year-earlier period.

On a week-over-week basis, sales fell 2.5%.

Forecast: Outlook improved for 2010

Columbus, Ohio ( January 1, 2008 ) Retail Forward released its economic forecast Tuesday, predicting that retail sales will show quarter-by-quarter improvement in 2010 and approach long-term average growth rates by the end of the year.

A Kantar Retail company, Retail Forward’s 2010 forecast for retail sales excluding the auto and fuel channels is an increase of 1.5% to 2.0% in the first two quarters of the year and a step up to 3.0% to 4.0% growth in the second half of the year as job and income growth start to re-emerge.

NRF: U.S. retail sales to rise 2.5% for 2010

New York City ( January 26, 2010 ) The National Retail Federation reported Tuesday it has forecast that U.S. retail industry sales should rise 2.5 % this year.

The announcement is an indication that retail has survived the worst of the downturn and can expect that the improvements in the housing and job markets will bolster shoppers’ confidence, according to the NRF.

Report: 51% of consumers used mobile for in-store holiday shopping

New York City ( January 25, 2010 ) More than half (51%) of consumers across 11 countries used their mobile phones during the holiday season for in-store activities, such as comparison shopping and getting peer feedback, product information and coupons, according to Motorola’s Enterprise Mobility Solutions annual research study.

The news indicates the increasing importance for retailers to adopt mobile shopper technology strategies to remain competitive.

Coupon redemption up 27% in 2009

Winston-Salem, N.C. ( January 25, 2010 ) Annual coupon use is on the rise for the first time since 1992, according to a report by Inmar, a promotion transaction settlement provider.

For the first time in 17 years, consumers used more coupons than they did the year before, with 3.3 billion consumer packaged goods coupons redeemed, an explosive 27% increase over the 2.6 billion redeemed in 2008

Transition team of N.J.’s new governor cites Xanadu’s ‘failed business model’

New York City ( January 25, 2010 ) Xanadu, the controversial, long-delayed retail and entertainment complex in New Jersey’s Meadowlands Sports Complex, “appears to be a failed business model,” according to a gaming, sports and entertainment report released Friday by the transition team of the state’s new governor, Chris Christie, The Record reported. Consequently, New Jersey needs to tell the owners to “open or surrender the property,” the report said.

Accruent acquired by Vista Equity Partners

Santa Monica, Calif. ( January 25, 2010 ) Accruent, a leading provider of Enterprise Location Management (ELM) solutions, announced that it has been acquired by Vista Equity Partners. Vista, a private-equity firm with over $2.5 billion in committed capital, invests in private and public software and software-enabled companies, focusing on successful organizations committed to maintaining industry leadership.

“Vista is the right business partner for Accruent because they share our focus on delivering exceptional long-term value to customers, and they have a unique strategy for driving operational improvement,” said Mark Friedman, CEO of Accruent. “Today’s announcement marks an important milestone in our maturity as a company and the start of a new chapter in our growth. Vista’s investment is a validation of our progress to date and provides the resources and expertise to take Accruent to the next level.”

Report: Independent stores had happy holiday

New York City ( January 22, 2010 ) Independent stores nationwide seem to have done as well or better than the chain-dominated retail industry during the 2009 holidays, according to a survey issued Thursday.

The Institute for Local Self-Reliance in Washington, D.C., said sales were up 2.2 percent in November and December versus the same period in 2008 among roughly 1,800 independent businesses nationwide that took part in its survey.

Coldwater Creek closing downtown Seattle store

New York City ( January 22, 2010 ) Coldwater Creek is closing its downtown Seattle store after 10 years to focus more on stores in suburban markets, the Puget Sound Business Journal reported.

Z Global Mart U.S. Retail Store Closings 2009/Opening 2010

It appears from the number of store openings planned for 2010 that U.S. Retailers believe the recession is over and expansion will start soon.

The information is from third party public sources and is not guaranteed by Z Global Mart.

The Fashion Industry's Virtual Trade Show

CLOSINGS IN 2009

Retailer No of Stores

General Motors 2,639
Blockbuster 960
Chrysler 789
Circuit City 567
KB Toys 461
Movie Gallery 450
(Game Crazy, Hollywood Video)
Ritz Camera 365
Starbucks 273
Goody’s 287
Jones Apparel Group 265
(2009 & 2010
Waldenbooks 240
Foot Locker 200
Zale Corporation 191
Van Heusen 175
Ann Taylor (by 2010) 163
Charming Shoppes 162
InkStop 161
Family Dollar 160
Popeye’s (AFC Ent) 150
S&K Famous Brands Inc. 135
Advance America 130
Boater’s World 129
F.Y.E. (Trans World Ent) 125
Eddie Bauer 121
Office Depot 118
Rite Aid 117
Finlay Enterprises 104
Payless Shoes 102
Albertsons 100
Gap, Inc. 100
Club Libby Lu (Saks) 98
NextCen Brands 85
Payless Shoes 84
Samsonite 84
Saab Dealerships 81
Game Stop 77
J. Jill 75
Signet Jewelers 75
Famous Footwear 70
Arby’s 60
Collective Brands 60
Dominos 60
Advance Auto Parts 59
Ruby Tuesday 59
Gottschalks 58
Smith & Hawken 56
Rex Appliance & Electronics 53
B Dalton 50
Pacific Sunwear 50
Select Comfort 50
Supervalu 50
New York & Co. (next 5 yrs) 50
Home Depot 48
Ultra 48
Anchor Blue 46
Cato 45
Check ‘n Go 44
Destination Maternity 43
Justice 40
Kirkland’s 40
Tween Brands 40
Bruno’s 38
Bachrach 34
Big 10 Tires 32
Pier One 31
Big Lots 30
Jo-Ann Stores 30
Basha’s Supermarket 29
Ruehl 29
Kmart 28
Yankee Candle 28
Cost Plus 26
Chico’s FAS 25
Dress Barn 25
Finish Line 25
Fred’s 25
Luby’s 25
Blue Tulip Gift Shops 24
Cashland 24
Foot Locker 24
Sears 24
Sportsman’s Warehouse 23
AFC Enterprises 22
Papa John’s 21
ZGallerie 21
Baja Fresh Mexican Grill 20
Man Alive (Finish Line) 20
Oneida Ltd. 20
Pumpkin Patch 20
Wendy’s 20
Wet Seal 20
Snyder’s Drug Stores Inc. 19
Black Angus 18
O’Reilly Automotive 18

PROJECTED OPENNINGS IN 2010

Retailer No of Stores

III Forks 1
77Kids (American Eagle) 1
99c Only 12
Abercrombie & Fitch 1
Advance Auto Parts 150
Aeropostale 1
Aldi 25
All Saints 1
Anthropologie 20
Apple 20
Banana Republic 1
Bass Outlet 1
BCBG/Girls 1
BCBGMAXAZRIA 1
Best Buy 22
Billabong 1
Bloomingdale’s 2
Boost Mobile 50
Brio Tuscan Grille 1
Bruegger’s 15
Buckle 1
Buffalo Wild Wings 3
Burberry 1
Burger King 300
Cabela’s 1
Cantina Laredo 1
Casey’s General Store 16
CB2 1
Charming Charlie 1
Charlotte Russe 11
Chick-Fil-A 1
Chipotle 130
Chuck E. Cheese 6
Coach Factory 1
Costco 14
Cracker Barrel 7
D&W Fresh Market 1
Darden Restaurants 55
Dicks Sporting Goods 24
Dierberg’s 1
Dollar General 600
Domenico Vacca 1
Dress Barn 1
Duckwall-ALCO 8
Eat ‘n Park 1
Ecohaus 1
Edible Arrangements 100
Elevation Burger 1
Famous Footwear 1
Fendi 1
Five Below 98
Foot Locker 1
Forever 21 6
Free People 20
Fresh & Easy 12
Freshii 1
Gap Outlet 1
Go Green Station 900
Google Editions 1
Great Steak & Potato 1
Gucci 1
Gymboree Outlet 1
Harris Teeter 1
hhgregg 22
Hobby Lobby 1
HomeGamers 3
Interstate All Battery 1
IZOD Outlet 1
J. Crew Outlet 1
Jack in the Box 3
Jamba Juice 27
Jason’s Deli 1
JC Penney 4
Jillian’s 1
Joe’s Jeans 1
Jones N.Y. Outlet 1
Jos.A Banks Outlet 40
Kitson 1
Kohl’s 50
Kona Grill 1
Louis Vuitton 1
Macy’s 3
Market of Choice 1
Maurice’s 13
Muscle Maker Grill 200
Michael Kors 1
Limited 1
Little Caesar’s 5
Lowe’s 45
Manhattan Bagel 3
Maurice’s 1
Max Muscle 29
McCormick&Scmick’s 3
McDonald’s (global) 1000
Meijer 3
Michael Kors Outlet 2
Michael’s 1
Mimi’s Café 2
Neiman Marcus 1
New Home 25
Nike 1
Nike Factore Store 1
Nine West 1
No Frills Fresh 1
Nordstom 3
Nordstom Rack 15
Ola Cuba 1
Olive Garden 1
Optical Shop Aspen 1
Oscar de la Renta 1
Panera 105
Payless Shoes 1
Peet’s Coffee 1
Pep Boys 40
Perfume Palace 1
Perkins 1
Petco 1
PetSmart 1
P.F. Chang’s 1
Pilgrim Furniture City 1
Pizza Fusion 75
Pizza Hut 35
Post & Gray 1
Proof 1
Qdoba 40
Red Robin Gourmet 15
Reebok Outlet 1
REI 1
Rent-a-Center 35
Roadside BBQ 1
RockOn!American BBQ1
Rocky Rococo 1
Room & Board 1
Ruby Tuesday 3
rue21 100
Safeway 25
Saks Off 5th 1
Sam’s Club 15
See’s Candies 1
Sephora 75
Shed Barbecue 1
& Blues Joint
Shogun Fresh 1
Japanese Grill
Skechers Outlet 1
Smashburger 18
Skipper’s 1
Sonic 110
Sprint Mobile 1
Sprouts 15
Stevi B’s 15
Stride Rite 1
Target 128
The Dump 6
Greene Turtle 2
Tiffany & Co 1
Tom Thumb 1
Tommy Hifiger 1
Outlet
Total Wine&More 1
Town & Country 1
Tractor Supply 1
Trader Joe’s 1
TRUE Religion 1
Urban Outfitters 20
Vans 1
Verizon 1
Vilebrequin 1
Walgreens 350
WalMart 16
Whole Foods 16
Wild Wings 1
WinCo 3
Zara 450

Z Global Mart Top Retail News

Z Global Mart Top Retail News

The Fashion Industry's Virtual Trade Show

Departmental Stores

Macy’s to launch Bloomingdale’s outlet store concept

Cincinnati ( January 21, 2010 ) Bloomingdale’s is going the way of such upscale department stores as Nordstrom and Saks Fifth Avenue and getting into the outlet business, Macy’s Thursday announced plans to launch a Bloomingdale’s Outlet store concept in 2010, with four locations scheduled to open in summer or fall. Additional Bloomingdale’s Outlet stores are expected to roll out to selected locations across the country in 2011 and beyond.

The initiative is being headed up by Arnold Orlick, a former division principal of Federated Department Stores (now Macy’s). He will rejoin Bloomingdale’s as senior VP outlet stores to lead and develop the outlet stores business.

Drug Stores

CVS enters St. Louis market

Woonsocket, R.I. ( January 21, 2010 ) CVS/pharmacy is entering the St. Louis market with five new stores in the area.

“We are pleased to be opening stores in St. Louis, the 20th largest drugstore market in the country. It is a great fit for our strategy of expanding into high-growth markets,” said Larry Merlo, president, CVS/pharmacy.

In total, the five stores will bring about 125 new jobs to the St. Louis community this year.

Rite Aid names new CEO

Chicago ( January 21, 2010 ) Rite Aid on Thursday announced that John Standley will be promoted to the position of president and CEO effective June 24 at the company’s annual stockholder meeting. Mary Sammons, currently Rite Aid chairman and CEO, will remain as chairman.

Standley’s promotion is part of the company’s executive succession plan and was approved Thursday at a regularly scheduled meeting of Rite Aid’s board of directors. Sammons, 63, will remain Rite Aid’s chairman until the company’s annual meeting in June 2012. Sammons said she intends to be an active chairman, continuing to represent the company in industry and government affairs, as well as assist as needed with strategic initiatives.

Duane Reade partners with Coupon.com, changes rewards program

New York City ( January 20, 2010 ) Drug store chain Duane Reade is partnering with Coupons.com, a provider of interactive coupons solutions, to offer printable online coupons on its Web site, Duanereade.com.

Powered by Coupons.com, shoppers can browse the coupon gallery for available offers, click to “clip” the ones they want, then print the coupons and redeem them at checkout.

Rite Aid appoints business development executive

Camp Hill, Pa. ( January 19, 2010 ) Rite Aid Corp. announced Tuesday that Bryan Shirtliff, currently the company’s senior VP category management, has been named to the new position of senior VP business development.

Shirtliff will be charged with developing merchandising initiatives to support the company’s store segmentation strategy, which involves grouping together stores with similar characteristics and creating a unique business plan for each group.

CVS names diversity officer

Woonsocket, R.I. ( January 19, 2010 ) CVS Caremark said Tuesday it has appointed David Casey as VP and diversity officer.

In this new role, Casey will lead the company’s efforts related to strategic diversity management.

Report: Walgreens to develop prepared meals for customers on the go

Deerfield, Ill. ( January 18, 2010 ) Walgreens is gearing up to expand its food sector by offering fresh foods and prepared meals for its customers, according to published reports.

The drug store chain is targeting shoppers on a time crunch and reportedly is in talks with such companies as Sara Lee and Unilever. The program will boost front-end sales.

Apparel Stores

Lands’ End lays off 60 employees

Dodgeville, Wis. ( January 21, 2010 ) Lands’ End laid off 60 employees in a realignment of its corporate structure to boost efficiency.

About half of the affected positions were in Dodgeville, Wis., where the company is based. The layoffs occurred across all divisions. The firm said it still remains committed to providing “exceptional customer service.”

New York & Co. in new agreement with Epsilon

Dallas ( January 21, 2010 ) New York & Co. has signed a multi-year expansion agreement with Epsilon, a subsidiary of loyalty and marketing solutions provider Alliance Data Systems Corp.

Since 2006, Epsilon has been providing targeted, permission-based e-mail marketing services to New York & Co. to increase repeat purchase rates. New York & Co. has also been a long-tenured private label credit-card client of Alliance Data.

Galeries Lafayette improves flow of goods with Oracle Retail

Redwood Shores, Calif. ( January 21, 2010 ) Oracle announced that Galeries Lafayette has completed the rollout of Oracle Retail applications across the retailer’s 62 department stores in France and Berlin.

To set the stage for ongoing growth, the department store operator has deployed the Oracle Retail merchandising system to centralize control of core merchandising capabilities and improve management and integration of its inventory and replenishment processes. This has supported enhancements within the supply chain to ensure and optimal flow of goods through the network.

Dots selects MID merchandise allocation and planning systems

Indianapolis ( January 21, 2010 ) Value apparel retailer Dots has selected the MID Retail’s Advanced Allocation and Planning Systems to forecast and distribute women’s apparel and accessories to all its store locations.

Dots performed an extensive software evaluation for its allocation needs and selected MID Retail over several other vendors primarily for its robust functionality, proven technology and integrated approach, according to MID.

77kids by american eagle pop-up to remain open for spring, permanent stores due in 2010

Pittsburgh ( January 21, 2010 ) 77kids by american eagle, the children’s brand from American Eagle Outfitters, announced that its pop-up store at The Mall at Robinson, in Pittsburgh, will remain open through April 3, based on positive customer response during the holiday season. Permanent 77kids stores are planned for 2010, the company said.

“The positive customer response to our holiday 77kids pop-up was overwhelming,” said Betsy Schumacher, chief merchandising officer, 77kids by american eagle, a division of American Eagle. “We couldn’t think of a better way to thank our friends in Pittsburgh than to give them another season of great 77kids shopping.”

Tilly’s deploys SAS Size Profiling as a managed solution

New York City ( January 19, 2010 ) Tilly’s, a leading teen specialty retailer, has deployed SAS Size Profiling as a managed solution to better evaluate store-level style-specific demand by size. SAS, a leader in business analytics, is the only software vendor to currently offer size profiling customers the choice of either a managed solution or licensed software for behind-the-firewall deployment. Licensing software for behind-the-firewall deployment offers retailers different benefits than a managed or hosted model, according to SAS.

“Having SAS host this solution was an efficient way to deploy this important capability,” said Craig DeMerit, CIO, Tilly’s, Irvine, Calif., which operates more than 100 stores. “It is great for us to be able to rely on SAS for the implementation and ongoing support, because they know the software better than anyone else.”

Reitmans expands Oracle Retail footprint to improve merchandising and supply chain operations

Redwood Shores, Calif. ( January 19, 2010 ) Reitmans, Canada’s largest specialty retailer, has selected the Oracle Retail Merchandising System to help transform its merchandising and supply chain operations, as well as support growth across seven brands and more than 950 stores. The suite of applications provides out-of-the-box integration with supply chain operations, making it easier for staff to support and upgrade the systems.

The retailer expects to use the Oracle Retail applications to improve critical aspects of its merchandising and supply chain operations, such as gaining better analysis of item attributes, fine-tuning case packs to align with store-level size demand, and automating order execution, as well as improving order quality, status visibility and context around the allocation.

Burberry sales rise 15%, beats Street

London ( January 19, 2010 ) U.K. luxury goods retailer Burberry said Tuesday that it experienced a 15% rise in sales for its fiscal third quarter.

Results surpassed analyst estimates, and the company said it now expects pretax profit for the year will reach the top end-of-market expectations.

Home Improvement & Office Products

Office Depot honored for diversity

Boca Raton, Fla. ( January 20, 2010 ) Office Depot has been recognized by DiversityBusiness.com as one of the “Top Organizations for Multicultural Business Opportunities” for the tenth year in a row.

The annual list, produced by DiversityBusiness.com, the nation’s leading multicultural business-to-business online Web site, recognizes companies for the consistency and quality of business opportunities granted to women- and minority-owned companies. For the second consecutive year, Office Depot placed fifth on the list, dubbed The Div50.

Home Depot pledges $1 million to scholarship program

( January 19, 2010 ) The Home Depot has announced $1 million in funding for its 2010 Pro Trade Scholarship Program, more than tripling a $300,000 scholarship fund it established in 2009 to support students at professional building and construction trade schools.

This year’s program will support students and their schools with $1,000 scholarships available to 500 trade school students. The schools of the recipients will receive additional funds for classrooms from the Home Depot Foundation through matching gifts of $1,000 for each scholarship awarded to one or more of their students.

Staples, SunEdison unveil largest single rooftop solar-power installation in Md.

Hanover, Md. ( January 19, 2010 ) Staples has unveiled the largest single rooftop solar-power installation in Maryland at Staples’ 200,200-sq.-ft. fulfillment center in Hanover. The 1.01 megawatt solar installation covers nearly 175,000 sq. ft. of roof space, larger than three football fields.

The zero-emission, silent photovoltaic system will generate approximately 1.2 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity per year, and 21 million kWh during the initial 20 years of the project. The solar installation was financed, built and maintained under a power purchase agreement with SunEdison. Under the PPA, Staples will purchase the electricity produced for the term of the contract.

Discount Stores

Report: Judge won’t upset verdict in Kmart case

Detroit ( January 21, 2010 ) A judge has upheld a civil verdict against Charles Conaway, the former head of Kmart Corp., who was found liable for misleading investors about the retailer’s health in 2001, according to the Associated Press.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Steven Pepe vacated some findings of fact Wednesday but otherwise didn’t upset the jury’s verdict.

Target to spend $1 billion on remodeling stores in 2010

Minneapolis ( January 21, 2010 ) Target will focus on updating existing stores rather than opening new ones this year. The discounter will spend $1 billion renovating 340 stores while opening fewer than 10 new locations.

The company said it plans to incorporate a variety of new merchandise initiatives in the remodeled stores, including expanded grocery offerings, enhanced layout, and an improved in-store experience in a variety of other merchandise areas including beauty, home, electronics and video games.

Kohl’s re-ups Britney Spears contract

Menomonee Falls, Wis. ( January 19, 2010 ) Iconix Brand Group announced Tuesday it has renewed its exclusive partnership with Britney Spears for its Candie’s brand, which is available only at Kohl’s Department Stores and Kohls.com.

Spears will appear in the Candie’s only at Kohl’s marketing campaigns throughout 2010.

Target denies rumors that it plans to sell India operations

Minneapolis ( January 18, 2010 ) Target Corp. Monday denied what it called the “irresponsible rumor” that it is engaged in any discussions, or has any plans, to sell its Target India operations, which employs about 2,100 people in Bangalore. The chain said it continues to more deeply integrate the work of its Bangalore teams with its U.S.-based teams, bringing the teams, sites and work even closer together.

Grocery Stores

Swiss Farms chooses new Microsoft Dynamics solution as it gears up for expansion

Redmond, Wash. ( January 21, 2010 ) Microsoft Corp. announced that Swiss Farms has selected Microsoft Dynamics AX for Retail to support its expansion and to integrate its point-of-sale data with back-office operations. The new Microsoft Dynamics AX for Retail solution links point-of-sale terminals with the Microsoft Dynamics AX comprehensive business-management solution.

Prior to the Microsoft solution, Swiss Farms, a drive-through grocery store retailer, utilized point-of-sale software that it had been using on disparate computer systems with a lack of integration and functionality.

Whole Foods customers give $1M toward Haitian relief

AUSTIN , Texas (Jan. 21) Whole Foods Market announced that its customers at 289 stores in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom have donated $1 million to several relief efforts in Haiti since Jan. 14.

“Whole Foods Market has seen first-hand the big hearts of its customers during difficult times like these and we are so amazed at their generosity,” said A.C Gallo, co-president and chief operating officer of Whole Foods Market. “We have made it easy for customers to give what they can at our registers to help deliver critical aid to the people of Haiti.”

Sunflower Farmer Market welcomes nutritional programs

Boulder, Colo. ( January 20, 2010 ) Sunflower Farmers Market has launched a nutrition label program, a microsite and new Web site.

The company’s “Smart Tags Program” is a color-coded nutrition labeling program developed by Sunflower’s registered dietician. Smart Tags can be found at all Sunflower Farmers Markets in every department.

Supervalu to consolidate Albertsons procurement

Minneapolis ( January 20, 2010 ) Supervalu plans to consolidate its five Albertsons meat and grocery procurement offices in the western United States into one regional department in Fullerton, Calif., according to the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal.

Produce procurement for those Albertsons distribution centers will be split between an office in Irvine, Calif., and W. Newell & Co., Supervalu subsidiary based in Champaign, Ill.

Fresh & Easy director leaves company

El Segundo, Calif. ( January 18, 2010 ) Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Market has announced that Jim Jensen, the chain’s director of fresh foods, has left the company.

A successor has not yet been named. Jensen had held the post since mid-2008, when he was promoted from his position as category manager for bakery.

Meijer debuts new store format

Grand Rapids, Mich. ( January 18, 2010 ) Meijer is opening the company’s first smaller format, grocery-focused store in the Chicago suburb of Niles on Tuesday.

The new location is about half the size of most Meijer supercenters at 102,000 sq. ft. The store is grocery and pharmacy focused, while still providing some general merchandise offerings. The location will be Meijer’s twelfth store in suburban Chicago.

Restaurant

Starbucks returns to growth, will open 100 U.S. locations in 2010

Seattle ( January 21, 2010 ) Starbucks has upped its outlook based on a strong first quarter. During the first quarter, the coffee retailer earned $241.5 million, compared with $64.3 million. And after nearly three years of retrenchment, the company is returning to a growth mode. It plans to open about 100 new U.S. locations during its current fiscal year, along with 200 international sites.

For the quarter, sales rose 4% to $2.72 billion from $2.62 billion last year, while same-store sales grew 4%. It marked the first time Starbucks has experienced an increase in comparable sales gain since 2007.

Starbucks same-store sales up in Q1

Seattle ( January 20, 2010 ) Starbucks reported revenue for its fiscal first quarter ended December 27, 2009, increased 4% to $2.7 billion. Same-store sales increased 4% driven by a 1% increase in traffic and a 4% increase in average ticket.

Solid same-store sales, combined with its continuing focus on controlling operating costs, drove significant operating margin improvement in both its U.S. and international business segments.

Report: Restaurant chains looking at solar thermal powered HVAC systems

New York City ( January 20, 2010 ) The system can easily replace any standard roof-top unit without making any changes to the installed ducting system. The company estimates that businesses can reduce their energy usage by 15% to 30% with the retrofit, according to the report. The new system also eliminates the need for chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) or other gaseous chemicals.

Taco Bell founder dies at age 86

San Bernardino, Calif. ( January 20, 2010 ) Glen W. Bell, Jr., founder of the Taco Bell fast-food chain, died Sunday at the age of 86.

No cause of death has been given for Bell, who suffered from Parkinson’s disease since 1985.

Sbarro launches major expansion in Japan

Melville, N.Y. ( January 19, 2010 ) Quick-serve Italian restaurateur Sbarro said Tuesday it has outlined an aggressive expansion plan in Japan that includes the opening of 1,250 units.

Sbarro has partnered with JCI in a joint venture/franchise agreement that will see the expansion plan executed over a 20-year period. As part of the agreement, Sbarro and JCI announced the opening of the first restaurant at the Aeon Mall in Hinode-Machi, Tokyo.

Electronics Stores

Best Buy promotes TV deals

MINNEAPOLIS (Jan. 20) Best Buy this week is promoting deals on televisions and other home theater products.

With the Super Bowl coming soon, Best Buy announced that, through Feb. 6, it is offering the Samsung 46-inch 1080p LED TV (Model: UN46B6000VF) for $1,599.99 — a savings of $900.00. And this week only, customers looking for a complete home theater make-over can purchase that Samsung 46-inch 1080p LED TV, along with a Samsung soundbar and WiFi Bluray player, Rocketfish HDMI cable, and Geek Squad installation for only $1,999.99 — a savings of more than $1,400.00. Both offers, as well as any TV over $999.00, are eligible for three-year financing, free delivery and free recycling.

Dollar Stores, Warehouse Club & Other Retailers

eBay Q4 income jumps with help from Skype unit, Paypal

San Jose, Calif. ( January 21, 2010 ) eBay reported that its fourth-quarter earnings rose as its PayPal payments business grew and holiday shoppers gravitated to its online auctions and “Buy It Now” offerings.

eBay reported a net income of $1.4 billion, compared with $367 million in the same quarter in 2008. Revenue for the quarter was $2.37 billion, up 16% from $2.04 billion in the year-earlier period.

Blockbuster expects worse-than-expected net loss

Dallas ( January 21, 2010 ) Blockbuster said it expects to report a net loss in the range of $183 million to $193 million for 2009 based on holiday season sales that were lower than expected.

CEO Jim Keyes said the company increased its inventory and advertising to drive traffic during the holidays but those efforts did not give it the boost it expected.

Tiffany & Co. resumes buybacks

New York City ( January 21, 2010 ) Tiffany & Co. said Thursday it will start buying back some of its stock again in the wake of reporting better-than-expected holiday sales.

Tiffany had suspended stock repurchases in the 2008 third quarter in order to preserve cash. A buyback program that expires in January 2011 currently authorizes the repurchase of up to $402 million worth of stock.

Dollar Tree appoints new director

Chesapeake, Va. ( January 20, 2010 ) Dollar Tree has appointed Conrad Hall to its board of directors

Hall served as the president and CEO of media and marketing information services company Dominion Enterprises until his retirement last year.

Red Wing Shoe Co. partners with Buxton to analyze market expansion strategy

Fort Worth, Texas ( January 20, 2010 ) Red Wing Shoe Co. has formed a relationship with Buxton, a customer analytics firm, to assist with the company’s market expansion and analytics strategy.

“Aligning with Buxton provides Red Wing Shoe Co. the ability to understand who our customers are, where large concentrations of our customers live and where we might expand in the future,” said Jim Anderson, VP global business planning for Red Wing Shoe Co. “We now have access to household level segmentation which gives us the tools to refine our growth and business strategies.”

Coach Q2 profit up 11%

New York City ( January 20, 2010 ) Coach on Wednesday reported a better-than-expected 11% increase in its fiscal second-quarter profit after its North American same-store sales turned positive for the first time in more than a year.

Net income in the quarter, ended Dec. 26, rose to $241 million, from $216.9 million a year earlier. Sales increased to $1.07 billion from $960.3 million.

Costco to open new Maryland store

Issaquah, Wash. ( January 19, 2010 ) Costco Wholesale Corp. said late Monday it is in talks with officials in Maryland to locate a new store in the Montgomery County city of Wheaton, in Washington.

According to a report by the Puget Sound Business Journal, the retailer is discussing a $60 million project that would put the retailer in part of space formerly occupied by a Hecht’s department store.

Jo-Ann Stores names president and COO

Hudson, Ohio ( January 19, 2010 ) Jo-Ann Stores said Tuesday it has promoted Travis Smith to president and COO, effective Jan. 31.

Smith, currently COO, will retain his current responsibilities for overseeing the areas of marketing, merchandising, sourcing, inventory management, supply chain and store operations, according to the company. In addition, he will assume responsibility for information technology.

Shoe retailer upgrades to more energy-efficient POS terminals

Sunnyvale, Calif. ( January 19, 2010 ) Fujitsu announced that Genesco has successfully upgraded its point-of-sale infrastructure with the Fujitsu TeamPoS 3000 XL2 POS terminals in more than 1,000 stores.

More than 2,000 terminals were upgraded in Genesco’s Journeys, Journeys Kidz, Shi by Journeys stores and select Johnston & Murphy stores. Featuring the Intel Core2 Duo mobile processor, the systems offer Genesco increased reliability, significant energy savings and reduced maintenance costs, resulting in lower total cost of ownership, according to Fujitsu.

Cabela’s announces exec promotions

Sidney, Neb. ( January 19, 2010 ) Cabela’s reported Tuesday it has promoted six of its executive team.

The sporting goods retailer promoted Patrick A. Snyder to executive VP and chief marketing officer and charged him with overseeing the newly consolidated e-commerce and catalog businesses.

Nash Finch to write-down value of stores

Minneapolis ( January 18, 2010 ) Nash Finch Co. will likely report a non-cash goodwill impairment charge of about $69.9 million for its 2009 fiscal year, according to the Business Journal of Milwaukee.

The charge is related to the company’s retail business, which includes nine stores in Wisconsin. Nash Finch is appraising the value of that business and now expects a “significant portion of its retail goodwill will likely be written off.”

Golfsmith to expand in Kansas

Austin, Texas ( January 18, 2010 ) Golfsmith International Holdings will fill a 40,000-sq.-ft. space in Overland Park, Kan., that was vacated by bankrupt Circuit City Stores.

According to a local broker, Golfsmith was represented in the lease transaction by Carl LaSala of LaSala-Sonnenberg Commercial Realty Co. in Overland Park.

Phone apps rake in $6.2B

Austin , Texas ( January 18, 2010 ) Mobile phone users are expected to spend $6.2 billion downloading applications this year, up from $4.2 billion last year, according to a recent Gartner report.

The company also forecasts sales hitting about $29.5 billion by the end of 2013.

Borders Group sales drop 13.7% during holiday season

Ann Arbor, Mich. ( January 18, 2010 ) Borders Group reported a 13.7% drop in total sales for the 11-week holiday period ended Jan. 16, to $846.8 million.

The company called the results “disappointing” and said it is taking steps to manage cash flow and move away from low-margin, underperforming categories such as music and video.

Barbie Shanghai selected as Chain Store Age’s Retail Store of the Year

New York City ( January 18, 2010 ) A 36,000-sq.-ft. store located in Shanghai, China, and dedicated to one of America’s most iconic brands — Barbie — took top honors in Chain Store Age’s 28th annual Retail Store of the Year Design Competition.

In addition to winning the coveted Store of the Year Award, Barbie Shanghai took top honors in three individual categories — Attraction Retailing, Cashwrap and Fitting Room — and received an Honorable Mention in the Exterior category.

General

Retail sales expected to increase 1.2% in Q4

Chicago ( January 21, 2010 ) Retail sales and traffic for first quarter 2010 are expected to perform similarly to the 2009 holiday shopping season, providing a slight lift for retailers as the retail year begins, according to ShopperTrak.

Total U.S. foot traffic is expected to increase 1.8%, according to the company’s Retail Traffic Index, while its National Retail Sales Estimate is forecasting a 1.2% retail sales rise for the three-month period.

Week-over-week sales down 7.6%

Chicago ( January 20, 2010 ) ShopperTrak’s National Retail Sales Estimate reported that year-over-year retail sales rose a slight 0.8% for the week ending Jan. 16, while sales slipped 7.6% versus the previous week ending Jan. 9.

As expected, both yearly and weekly sales levels continued to slow last week following the late 2009 holiday spending rush.

Regency Centers’ Jefferson Square receives LEED Gold

La Quinta, Calif. ( January 20, 2010 ) Regency Centers announced that its Jefferson Square shopping center in La Quinta, Calif., received LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) for Core and Shell Gold certification by the U.S. Green Building Council.

The center, the first LEED-certified project in the city of La Quinta, is anchored by Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Market, slated to open in fall 2010, and a CVS/pharmacy, which is open for business.

NCR installing Blockbuster-branded DVD-rental kiosks in Gristedes

Duluth, Ga. ( January 20, 2010 ) NCR Corp. will install its Blockbuster Express-branded DVD-rental kiosks in 35 locations of Gristedes, a premiere New York City chain of small supermarkets. New Yorkers can already find Blockbuster Express kiosks in several Gristedes, with full deployment to be completed in January.

The Blockbuster Express-branded kiosk-rental experience from NCR offers consumers DVD rentals for $1 per night through conveniently located kiosks. Consumers can choose to return the DVD to any Blockbuster Express kiosk — not just where they rented the DVD.

Report makes recommendations for cutting energy in restaurants

New York City ( January 20, 2010 ) Water efficiency, use of green building materials and HVAC systems play a role in sustainability in the foodservice supply chain, according to the “Sustainability in the Food Service Environment” report by IFMA Foundation and Aramark.

Food preparation is the leading source of energy consumption in the industry, at 35%, followed by HVAC (28%), sanitation (18%), lighting (13%) and refrigeration (6%).

Lighting retrofit to provide Calif. beverage retailer with $1M in annual energy savings

Netanya, Israel ( January 19, 2010 ) Metrolight, manufacturer of electronic high-intensity discharge lighting solutions, together with West-Lite Supply Co., has successfully completed upgrading the lighting systems at 90 BevMo! Locations, providing the beverage retailer with almost $1 million in annual energy savings.

The upgrade, the largest electronic HID retrofit project in California in 2009, was subsidized through several state utility rebate programs.

Report: Retailers may expand store-within-a-store concept initiatives

Sacramento, Calif. ( January 18, 2010 ) Store-within-a-store concepts are expected to grow this year as retailers report success with the collaborations.

For example, Sephora in-store shops in J.C. Penney and Peet’s Coffee & Tea shops inside Raley’s grocery stores may be helping the chains stand out from competition.

Centro Properties announces executive promotion

New York City ( January 18, 2010 ) Centro Properties Group announced that Edward Ciano has been promoted to VP property management, mid-Atlantic region.

Based in Conshohocken, Pa., Ciano oversees the property management group responsible for approximately 13.3 million sq. ft. of community and neighborhood shopping centers in six states, including Delaware; Maryland; New Jersey; New York; Pennsylvania and Virginia.

Retailers reach out to help Haiti

New York City ( January 15, 2010 ) The nation’s retailers, fashion brands and restaurant chains are reaching out in response to the devastating 7.0 magnitude earthquake that hit Haiti on Tuesday. The Walmart Foundation will give $500,000 in cash, and food kits worth $100,000 to help victims.

The Walmart Foundation said its donations will be given through the American Red Cross. The foundation also launched a Web site at walmartstores.com/haiti, where customers and employees can donate to nonprofits that are helping Haitian victims of the natural disaster.

Milan menswear trends AW10/11

Mpdclick brings you comprehensive coverage of the autumn/winter 10/11 runway season kicking off in grand style this week with the exciting Milan menswear shows. The highly anticipated event ended this Tuesday after an exciting four days of top class collections from an impressive lineup of designers and luxury labels. We poured over the latest fall looks with delight, relieved to note a mélange of the fashion capital’s most esteemed players have gone back to their Italian craftsmanship origins, presenting exquisite looks that scream high quality and high fashion. Amongst the dominant trends we spotted a re-interpretation of last season’s grunge revival vogue with plenty of unrefined layers, while a penchant for amour offers a tough male identity for fall. Military looks are given a rock ‘n’ roll slant with embellished ‘Sgt Pepper’ jackets and aviation shearlings teamed with ultra skinny jeans. Decadent shades of everglade green reinforce the underlying heritage theme.

 Visit www.mpdclick.com for full coverage of Milan Fashion Week

Textile inspiration for the fashion & interiors market

This month Mpdclick offers directional textile inspiration for the fashion and interiors market, plus interior materials for the A/W 11/12 season. Our exclusive forecast reports feature downloadable PDF boards and image galleries covering all three of our new trends; Synergy, Primal and Innovate. As part of Mpdclick’s growing home & interiors content, the reports follow our interior colour inspiration, published in December, with prints and graphics, products and kids’ interpretations soon to be released.

 Visit www.mpdclick.com to check out our home & interiors section for more inspirational trend reports, or for more information contact enquire@mudpie.co.uk

Fashion Trade Show Z Global Mart Extends the Exhibitor Free Trial Period to 120 days

The online international fashion trade show Z Global Mart extends the free trial period for exhibitors from 60 days to 120 days to accommodate exhibitors during this mid-season period. Join us in the new era of fashion.

The Fashion Industry's Virtual Trade Show

Fashion Industry Veteran, Ashley O’Rourke, is personally inviting Designers/Manufacturers/Sourcing/ Service Exhibitors to populate and become members of The Fashion Industry’s Virtual Trade Show. Exhibitors have their own Booth open 365 days a year, 24/7, for a yearly cost that’s less than the cost of attending just one 3 day trade show. Visit the site, see our mission video, take the tour, become a member, and prosper in the New World of Fashion.

Exhibitor Page

Site Features:

Affordable launching of lines and sourcing services worldwide
Promoting on a worldwide basis all the exhibitors as they become members through press releases, social media and fashion associations
Each Exhibitor has its own Professional Numbered Booth they control, Show-casing their existing, and to be delivered items
Exhibitors and Attendees handle their own transactions, including shipping (no % of sales fees)
Exhibitors and Attendees are screened
Fashion Industry’s Code of Ethics in place (exhibitors can’t see other exhibitors lines)
Fostering of New Talent (affordable launching of lines and Fashion Show for top 10)
Video Conferencing Capabilities for the all important “Face to Face” contact
Exhibitors post their photo, 3 +/- minute videos of their line, with full contact information
Professional mood shots and photos only and ability to look at detail
Membership in exclusive community through zglobalmart blog (share, mentor, promote)
Unique, Classy B2B site, incorporating Social Media features and ease of use qualities (not an off-price, close-out, liquidation site)
No Disruption to your business through travel and the cost associated with it, be it as an exhibitor or attendee
Links to Trade Publications, Associations, Networks, Government Agencies, Factoring Companies

Costs: All Exhibitors, Sourcing, and Attendees receive a 120 day free trial from sign up, then they can choose as follows:

Design Exhibitors: a) Month to month $500.00 cancellable; b) Yearly paid up-front $4,800 ($400 per month basis)

Sourcing Exhibitors: a) Month to month $149.00 cancellable; b) Yearly paid up-front $1,188 ($99 per month basis)

Attendees: a) FREE

ALL HAVE UNLIMITED ACCESS

120 Day Free Trial

Join Us Risk Free

Don’t be left behind, take advantage of the 120 day free trial.

Introducing Z Global Mart for Apparel Exhibitors

Our goal is to become the premiere On Line International Fashion Trade Show and hereby extend our invitation to the Exhibitors who exhibited with their booth at major trade shows. We went live on September 2, 2009 and are in the process of populating the site with design exhibitors and sourcing exhibitors, we expect to have in place around 100 exhibitors whithin the next 30 days or so. We’ve been interviewed by a reporter from Senken Newspaper, the largest fashion daily paper in Japan, and the big article was published on 11/16/09. We’re in the process of reaching an agreement with PTEA (Pakistan Textile Exporters Association) that does around $400 billion a year to bring their sourcing members to our site. We also just reached an accord with MUDPIE the famous Fashion Trends Company from London to exchange links, banners and cross promote one another. Mudpie, our exclusive fashion trends partner will shortly have a trends page on our site.

We all know that physical trade shows are important and are here to stay, however the costs are very high, the number of shows are too many, the cost of disruption to your business due to travel and time is high, and in these difficult times its very important to control costs which is why today’s entreprenuers have to cut back on the number of shows they attend and use other avenues to maximize return on investment with a global reach.

Its time for Z Global Mart your new international partner.

Please take a look at our site, it has two parts, the flash side that tells you who we are and what we’ve created for you, then once you take the tour (its free) you can see the ecommerce side with the exhibitor booths and all their features as outlined below, just go to http://www.zglobalmart.com

Top Retail News Z Global Mart Fashion Trade Show

TOP RETAIL NEWS
Z Global Mart Fashion Trade Show

The Fashion Industry's Virtual Trade Show

Departmental Stores

Macy’s sells St. Louis DC

New York City ( December 28, 2009 ) Macy’s has completed the sale of its St. Louis-based distribution facility for $2 million to 3728 Market Street LLC. The retailer in 2008 had shifted its distribution facility to Bridgeton, Mo.

Initially, Macy’s had asked for $12.7 million for the property. However, the building, which was put up for sale in late 2007, fell prey to the battered real estate market.

Drug Stores

China Nepstar makes board change

Shenzhen, China ( December 31, 2009 ) China Nepstar Chain Drugstore, the largest drugstore chain in China based on the number of directly operated stores, announced Thursday that Yongtu Long has resigned from the company’s board of directors.

Long, who cited personal reasons for resigning, had served as an independent director for two years. The resignation is effective immediately.

Report: Retailers expect increased sales, foot traffic from H1N1 vaccination

New York City ( December 30, 2009 ) Pharmacies, supermarkets and other retailers are gearing up to become the go-to provider for swine-flu vaccinations, in a bid to attract more customers and, in many cases, promote their in-store health clinics, according to the Wall Street Journal.

Rite Aid, Kroger Co. and Walgreens are among the companies launching initiatives to promote the H1N1 vaccination and help boost sales and in-store traffic.

Drugstore.com to acquire Salu for $36 million

Bellevue, Wash. ( December 29, 2009 ) Online health and beauty retailer Drugstore.com announced late Monday it will purchase Salu, the operator of SkinStore.com, for $36 million.

According to Drugstore.com, the deal will make it one of the largest online beauty retailers. Salu’s SkinStore.com Web site sells skin care and beauty products, and the company also runs the spalook.com online store and distributes products in Australia.

Grocery Stores

Kroger cuts hours at some 24-hour locations

Cincinnati ( December 30, 2009 ) Ten 24-hour Kroger locations in Middle Tennessee will begin to close at night, effective next week, according to the Nashville Business Journal.

The move is a result of not having enough overnight sales to justify keeping them open, according to a Kroger spokeswoman. Hours may be extended in the future if traffic picks back up.

Sedano’s to expand in Central Fla.

Hialeah, Fla. ( December 30, 2009 ) Hispanic grocer Sedano’s plans to enter the Central Florida market next month, according to the Orlando Sentinal. The company, which is purchasing three Albertsons stores, plans to take possession of those stores in January and hopes to keep them open as it converts them.

Depending on how things go with the first three, Sedano’s may open more stores in Central Florida, the report said.

Whole Foods Market launches new giving effort

Austin, Texas ( December 29, 2009 ) Whole Foods Markets is launching a new cause-related campaign to leverage a new trend in online giving.

Whole Foods chief giving up chairman title

New York City ( December 28, 2009 ) The chief executive of Whole Foods Market is giving up his title of chairman, following years of petitioning by an activist shareholder to separate the two roles.

Co-founder and CEO John Mackey is voluntarily giving up his chairmanship, a position he has held since the company’s inception in 1978, according to a Thursday filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Mackey will remain on the board.

Restaurant

Panera’s Rosenthal cashes in

January 1, 2010, St. Louis Bread Co. founder Ken Rosenthal invested $150,000 and took out an SBA loan for another $150,000 to open his first bakery-cafe in Kirkwood in 1987. He has since sold the company, now known as Panera Bread Co., and become one of its largest franchisees with 76 locations in Ohio and Colorado. But few, including Rosenthal, could have predicted Panera’s growth to more than 1,300 restaurants across the country and annual corporate revenue of $1.3 billion.

That success made Panera the best-performing stock of the past decade among St. Louis-headquartered public companies. Its share price has risen 1,654 percent, from $3.88 a share on Dec. 31, 1999, to $67.95 a share on Dec. 28, 2009. Along the way, Panera has largely led the evolution of what has become known as the fast-casual restaurant category.

Outback Steakhouse makes $19M settlement

December 29, 2009, Outback Steakhouse will pay $19 million to settle a lawsuit the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission filed in Denver in 2006.

OSI Restaurant Partners LLC of Tampa, Fla., owns the restaurant chain.

Dollar Stores, Warehouse Club & Other Retailers

Borders names VP customer loyalty

Ann Arbor, Mich. ( December 31, 2009 ) Borders Group said Thursday it has appointed Dan Angus as VP customer loyalty, effective Jan. 4.

Angus will lead the company’s loyalty marketing programs and initiatives, including directing the development of customer relationship marketing strategies as well as enhancing and growing the Borders Rewards loyalty program, which currently has more than 35 million members.

Gander Mountain to delist stock from Nasdaq

St. Paul, Minn. ( December 30, 2009 ) Gander Mountain Co. announced its intent to withdraw its shares of common stock from listing on the Nasdaq Global Market.

A special committee of the company’s board of directors plans to cease the registration of its common stock with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The company expects that, as a result of this deregistration, its shares of common stock will cease to be listed on the Nasdaq Global Market.

Report: Citibank pulling out of credit-card deal with Zale

New York City ( December 28, 2009 ) Banking giant Citibank has notified Zale Corp. that it won’t renew its merchant services agreement with the jewelry retailer, according to the Dallas Business Journal.

This means Zale Corp. won’t receive financing from Citibank to provide customers with private-label credit cards, after the current agreement between the two companies ends in March 2011.

General

Inland buys Grafton Commons for $37 million

January 1, 2010, Continental Properties Co. closed on what’s likely to be the largest retail deal in 2009 when the Menomonee Falls development firm recently sold more than half of its Grafton Commons Shopping Center for $37 million to The Inland Real Estate Group of Cos. Inc.

Continental Properties developed the 389,000-square-foot Grafton Commons in 2007 for about $50 million. Inland Real Estate, Oak Brook, Ill., acquired 237,565 square feet of Grafton Commons retail space and more than 28 acres. Inland paid $155.75 per square foot for 15 stores at the regional mall.

Cafaro Co. announces senior retirements

Youngstown , Ohio ( December 31, 2009 ) The Cafaro Co. announced late Wednesday the retirement of president and CEO Anthony M. Cafaro, Sr. and VP John J. “Jay” Cafaro, effective immediately. The simultaneous retirements are part of an executive transition process that has been years in the making, said the company.

William A. Cafaro and Anthony Cafaro, Jr., will take over the day-to-day operations of the company. The two senior Cafaros will continue to consult and participate in special projects.

Online retail sales climb in November

Reston, Va. ( December 30, 2009 ) Visitors to retail e-commerce sites increased significantly in November from a month earlier as the holiday shopping season got under way, according to comScore.

Online spending also increased 10% to nearly $12.3 billion in November from a year earlier, when sales were very weak because of the recession, according to the research firm. Online spending on Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving and the traditional kickoff of the holiday shopping season, rose 11% from a year earlier, and Cyber Monday sales grew 5%. More than 50% of online purchases on Cyber Monday were made from work computers.

Dec. 26 second-biggest shopping day this holiday season

Chicago ( December 30, 2009 ) The day after Christmas was the second-biggest shopping day during the U.S. holiday season, with $7.9 billion spent, even though traffic in stores fell 6.6% from a year ago, ShopperTrak said on Wednesday. Only the day after Thanksgiving, or “Black Friday,” was busier in terms of traffic and sales, at $10.66 billion, the firm said.

Sales during the full week ended Dec. 26 rose an estimated 8.8%, while traffic at U.S. stores fell 1%, ShopperTrak said. Still, four of the top seven traffic days in the holiday season came last week, it said.

Report: Hacker pleads guilty to fraud case

Boston ( December 30, 2009 ) A computer hacker who helped orchestrate the theft of tens of millions of credit- and debit-card numbers from major retailers in one of the largest such thefts in U.S. history pleaded guilty Tuesday in the last of three cases brought by federal prosecutors, according to the Associated Press.

Albert Gonzalez, a one-time federal informant from Miami, faces a prison sentence of up to 25 years under the terms of separate plea agreements. He is tentatively scheduled for sentencing in March.

More employers to boost hiring in 2010

New York City ( December 29, 2009 ) A study released Tuesday by CareerBuilder found that 20% of employers plan to increase the number of full-time, permanent employees in 2010, up from 14% in 2009.

The CareerBuilder 2010 Job Forecast also showed that only 9% of surveyed employers planned to decrease headcount in 2010, down from 16% last year, while 61% don’t plan to change staff levels and 10% are unsure.

Survey: U.S. retail sales rise 2.3% during Christmas week

New York City ( December 29, 2009 ) A survey released Tuesday by the International Council of Shopping Centers and Goldman Sachs revealed that U.S. retail sales climbed 2.3% during Christmas week, even after a snowstorm on the East Coast hampered sales at the start of the period.

The gain for the week ended Dec. 26 means comp-store sales will still rise about 2% this month, according to ICSC and Goldman Sachs in an e-mailed statement.

Retailers shore up holiday profits on thin inventories

New York City ( December 29, 2009 ) Monday’s news that holiday spending rose 3.6% over last year has been followed by more positive tidings — but more for retailers than their customers.

According to a Tuesday report by the Associated Press, retail profits will get a boost from inventories so low that merchants have had to restock shelves, a rare move this soon after Christmas.

Retail vacancy rate in Kansas City area rises from last year, report says

December 29, 2009, The metropolitan area’s retail vacancy rate has increased to 9.8 percent from 7.7 percent a year ago, according to the 2010 Kansas City Retail Report that Lane4 Property Group Inc. released Tuesday.

The report, which analyzes activity within nine retail submarkets, shows that Wyandotte County has been slammed hardest by the retail downturn. Its vacancy rate stands at 25.9 percent, compared with 17.3 percent a year ago.

Initial report shows U.S. retail holiday sales up 3.6%

New York City ( December 28, 2009 ) U.S. retailers posted a better performance during the 2009 holiday shopping season, with sales tracked by MasterCard Advisors’ SpendingPulse up 3.6%. The figures exclude gasoline and automobile sales, and reflect activity that SpendingPulse tracks in the MasterCard payments networks, as well as estimates for other payment forms such as cash and checks.

The increase was fueled by a 15.5% surge in online purchases, as well as a modest recovery in areas such as luxury spending and women’s apparel as tracked by SpendingPulse.

Z Global Mart Fashion Trade Show Welcomes Mudpie Fashion Trends Co. as its Exclusive Fashion Trends Provider

Z Global Mart is very proud to welcome Mudpie, the famous London fashion trend forecasting company, as its exclusive fashion trends provider and author on its Blog, The Buzz with their own page Mudpie Fashion Trends, and on its website where they will provide all content on the Trends Page, Z GLobal Mart.

Mudpie leads the industry in innovative fashion trend forecasting information with its range of trendbooks for the contemporary women’s, men’s, children’s, print & pattern and active wear industries and its online trend forecasting website www.mpdclick.com. Trend forecasting for the fashion industry – Fashion Design, Graphic Design, Colour trends, Fashion Journalism, Research and Development, Product Development, Supply Chain, Trend Seminars, Marketing, Management.

The Fashion Industry's Virtual Trade Show

Z Global Mart Fashion Trade Show Top Retail News

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Departmental Stores News

Sears to buy back up to $500 million shares

Hoffman Estates, Ill. ( December 17, 2009 ) Sears Holdings Corp. said Thursday that its board approved the repurchase of up to $500 million shares of its common stock.

The new buyback is in addition to $82 million of shares available under an existing repurchase program.

Macy’s to opens 12 stores 24/7 for holiday shopping

New York City ( December 15, 2009 ) For the fourth year running, Macy’s has selected 12 stores to operate on a round-the-clock schedule from Dec. 21 to Dec. 24 to accommodate holiday shoppers.

Additional stores will extend their hours to allow extra shopping time. According to the retailer, beginning on Dec. 21 at 7 a.m., it will open its doors at 12 select stores in the New York/New Jersey metro area, and the greater Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia metro areas for round-the-clock marathon shopping.

Drug Stores News

Rite Aid reports losses in Q3

CAMP HILL , Pa. (Dec. 17) Rite Aid on Thursday posted a net loss of $83.9 million on revenues of $6.4 billion for the third quarter ended Nov. 28. Revenues declined 1.8%, primarily as a result of store closings and a

decline in front-end same-store sales, the chain stated.

Same-store sales for the quarter decreased 0.5%, consisting of a 2.5% decrease on the front end. Both pharmacy same-store sales and the number of prescriptions filled continued to increase by 0.4% and 1.5%, respectively.

Walgreens announces plans for nationwide H1N1 distribution

DEERFIELD , Ill. (Dec. 16) One of the nation’s largest drug store chains will roll out its inoculation efforts to all 50 states by the end of December.

Walgreens announced Wednesday that it already offers the H1N1 vaccine at more than 1,500 Walgreens pharmacies and select Take Care Clinics in 27 states, as well as the District of Columbia. Walgreens and Take Care Clinics had been administering H1N1 vaccine in select markets to only those within the priority groups as outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, but as more states, public health departments and local governments now are lifting vaccination restrictions, Walgreens is able to offer H1N1 vaccine to anyone who wants a vaccination and who meets state age requirements, in 27 states.

Walgreens said it continues to work with government agencies in the 23 other U.S. states to receive and distribute H1N1 vaccine, and to serve as a strategic distribution partner in communities nationwide.

CVS/pharmacy, MinuteClinic expands H1N1 services

WOONSOCKET , R.I. (Dec. 16) CVS/pharmacy and its MinuteClinic locations are now offering H1N1 vaccine in 20 states and Washington, D.C., the company announced on Wednesday.

Currently, the vaccine is being offered at select CVS/pharmacy locations in Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Missouri, North Carolina, Texas and the District of Columbia and at MinuteClinic locations in Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Missouri, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas. CVS/pharmacy and MinuteClinic are working with other states and expect the availability of H1N1 vaccine will expand to other areas as supply becomes available.

CVS wins $1B in Texas pension fund contract

New York City ( December 14, 2009 ) CVS Caremark Corp. has won an extension on its contract with the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS), worth about $1 billion, to provide pharmacy benefits for two years, according to a Reuters report.

The contract, which begins Sept. 1, 2010 is valued at $480 million in 2011 and $518 million in 2012. It allows for as many as four optional one-year renewals, the report said.

Apparel Stores News

Former Limited exec joins Burlington Coat Factory board

BURLINGTON , N.J. (Dec. 17) Burlington Coat Factory announced the appointment of Jay Margolis to the company’s board of directors effective Dec. 15. Margolis most recently served as CEO of Limited Corp., where he oversaw operations of Limited Brands’ apparel division (Express and Limited Stores) and was responsible for revamping the product line as well as operations.

Prior to Limited, Margolis served as president, COO and director of Reebok International Ltd. and as CEO and chairman of the board of Esprit de Corporation, USA where he led growth strategies.

Dress Barn raises full year outlook

SUFFERN , N.Y. (Dec. 16) Dress Barn announced, during its Investor Day held at the Grand Hyatt in New York City, increased earnings guidance for its fiscal year ending July 31, 2010.

The company raises its diluted earnings per share guidance for fiscal 2010 in the range of $1.35 to $1.45 compared with its previous earnings guidance of $1.20 to $1.30 per diluted share. This fiscal 2010 increased earnings per share guidance is based on better than expected year to date performance at dressbarn, maurices and Justice stores and other various assumptions.

Jones names CMO

New York City ( December 16, 2009 ) Jones Apparel Group announced that Stacy Lastrina has been promoted to the position of chief marketing officer.

Lastrina, who previously served as executive VP marketing and creative services, will continue to report to Wesley R. Card, president and CEO, Jones Apparel Group.

Report: Saks to cut jobs at NYC flagship

New York City ( December 16, 2009 ) Saks has informed about 116 workers at its flagship Fifth Avenue store that they would lose their jobs by the end of January, the New York Post reported, citing sources.

The job cuts, which are in the cosmetics and fragrance department of the Manhattan store, are part of Saks’ move to let brands such as Chanel, Lancome and Clinique fully staff the counters themselves, the Post said.

Collective Brands makes executive appointment

Topeka, Kan. ( December 15, 2009 ) Collective Brands said Tuesday that it has named John D. Smith as senior VP and general manager of retail for Collective Brands’ performance and lifestyle group.

Smith joined the company in 2005. He previously worked at Target Corp., McKinsey & Co., IBM and General Electric.

Limited Brands CFO to join Progressive board

Mayfield Village, Ohio ( December 15, 2009 ) Auto insurer Progressive Corp. said Monday that Stuart Burgdoerfer, CFO of Limited Brands, has been selected to fill a vacancy on Progressive’s board.

Burgdoerfer, 46, will join the board for a term ending in April 2010.

Saks ends rights plan to prevent takeover

New York City ( December 15, 2009 ) Saks said late Monday that it was ending changes it made to its shareholders rights plan last year when it sought to prevent a potential hostile takeover by Mexican billionaire investor Carlos Slim Helu.

In a statement, Saks CEO Steve Sadove said those steps — referred to in the finance community as a “poison pill” — were no longer necessary because of a change made last month to its revolving credit agreement, which raised a “change-of-control” threshold to 40% from 20%.

Wet Seal chairman retires

Foothill Ranch, Calif. ( December 14, 2009 ) The Wet Seal announced on Monday that chairman Alan Siegel has retired from the company’s board of directors due to personal commitments. The move is effective immediately.

Current board member Harold Kahn, who first joined the board in January 2005, has been named Siegel’s successor as chairman.

Home & Office Improvement Related News

Pier 1 returns to profitability in Q3Pier 1 returns to profitability in Q3

FORT WORTH , Texas (Dec. 17) Pier 1 Imports reported net income of $39 million, or 37 cents per share, for the third quarter, versus a net loss of $37 million, or 41 cents per share, for the same period last year. Without taking into account the effects of the unusual transactions and expenses that were recorded during the third quarter and are more thoroughly discussed below, net income would have been $2 million compared with a loss of $30 million last year.

Total sales for the third quarter increased to $327 million from $301 million in the year-ago quarter. Comparable-store sales during the quarter increased 13.7%.

HD Supply to lay off 350, consolidate 25 branches

Atlanta ( December 17, 2009 ) HD Supply plans to lay off 350 employees and consolidate 25 branches in its continuing effort to stem losses related to the decimated residential and commercial construction industry, according to an Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

Since fourth quarter 2008, the company and former Home Depot division has laid off 4,500 employees nationwide and closed or consolidated 210 branches. The company expects to incur $45 million in costs to reorganize its operations.

Lumber Liquidators names senior VP supply chain

Toano, Va. ( December 17, 2009 ) Lumber Liquidators announced that Glenn Sharpe has joined the company as senior VP supply chain, effective Dec. 14.

Sharpe will oversee the company’s supply chain and logistics operations and initiatives. Sharpe replaces Rick Boucher, who is leaving the company to pursue other interests.

Discount Stores News

Report: Walmart.com aims to dominate online world

New York City (Dec. 17) Walmart.com’s holiday sales are growing two or three times faster than Web sales overall, according to the Associated Press.

At that pace — and with 22% growth so far this year – Wal-Mart says it is coming closer to dominating the Web the way it does cities and towns across the United States. That would mean eventually dethroning online retail leader Amazon.com, whose sales hit $19.17 billion in the 2008 calendar year.

Meijer recognized for achievements in employee wellness

GRAND RAPIDS , Mich. (Dec. 16) A Midwest-based retailer has been awarded for its commitment to keeping employees healthy.

Citing Meijer’s commitment to encouraging healthy lifestyles within its ranks, the retailer was deemed a ‘Fit Friendly Company’ this past year by the American Heart Association. The company was also named one of the ‘Best Employers for Healthy Lifestyles’ by the National Business Group on Health, and was awarded the ‘Most Effective Plan Implementation’ honor by Consumer Directed Health Care Solutions magazine.

Grocery Stores News

Ahold USA to acquire 25 Ukrop’s Super Markets

AMSTERDAM , The Netherlands (Dec. 17) Ahold announced that Giant-Carlisle, a division of Ahold USA, will expand its presence in Virginia by acquiring 25 stores from Ukrop’s Super Markets.

The transaction includes 25 stores, inventory, equipment, lease agreements and one new store location. Furthermore, Giant-Carlisle will hire Ukrop’s store associates. The purchase price is approximately $140 million.

Kroger awards frequent shoppers with free minutes

CINCINNATI (Dec. 15) Kroger announced a first of its kind loyalty program that rewards frequent shoppers with free wireless service using the company’s own wireless phone service, branded i-wireless.

The free minutes rewards program enables customers to earn free airtime on their i-wireless phone, available exclusively at more than 2,200 Kroger stores nationwide, when they purchase groceries at the Kroger family of stores.

Arden Group names new CFO

Los Angeles ( December 15, 2009 ) Arden Group, the parent company of Southern California supermarket chain Gelson’s Markets, announced late Monday it has named Laura Neumann as its new CFO.

Neumann has worked for Arden for more than a decade, most recently as the company’s senior director of financial reporting and compliance. In the absence of a CFO, Neumann handled many of those duties as the principal financial officer of the company since July 2005.

Whole Foods Market offers online coupons

Austin, Texas ( December 14, 2009 ) Whole Foods Market has launched an online coupon program.

WholeFoodsMarket.com/coupons is an extension of its in-store circular, The Whole Deal, which features recipes and tips for saving money and planning meals.

Electronics Stores News

Best Buy appoints new board member

Minneapolis ( December 17, 2009 ) Best Buy Co. has appointed Lisa Caputo to its board of directors, effective immediately.

Caputo, who currently serves as executive VP global marketing and corporate affairs for Citigroup and chairman and CEO of Citi’s Women & Co., was appointed as a Class 1 director with a term expiring in June 2010.

Circuit City to shut down

(Jan. 16) Bankrupt electronics retailer Circuit City said Friday it will close its remaining 567 U.S. stores and sell all its merchandise.

The company said it has 34,000 employees.

Bang & Olufsen opens in Toronto

Toronto ( December 15, 2009 ) Bang & Olufsen, manufacturer of high-end audio and video products, has opened a state-of-the-art showroom in Toronto, Ontario.

The 4,000-sq.-ft. store, designed by Toronto-based interior designer and architect Johnson Chou, features two levels with a mezzanine, and is outfitted with classic and contemporary furniture to provide a true-to-life home-integration showcase.

Philips to host sustainable lighting seminar

Tupelo, Miss. ( December 15, 2009 ) The Philips Day-Brite Lighting Institute announced it will be holding a sustainable lighting design seminar at its LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified facility in Tupelo, Miss., on Jan. 28 and Jan. 29.

According to Philips, the seminar is designed for owners, facility or energy managers, architects, engineers, lighting designers, end-users and others in the lighting industry that are currently supporting energy initiatives that lead to more environmentally responsible projects.

Best Buy Q3 profit soars, but warns of disappointing Q4

Minneapolis ( December 15, 2009 ) Best Buy Co. said Tuesday its third-quarter profit more than quadrupled, but warned that profits will be lower than expected in the fourth quarter.

Profit for the quarter ended Nov. 28, rose to $227 million, from $52 million in the year-ago period, beating Wall Street estimates. Last year’s results included a charge related to the decline in value in its investment in U.K. retailer Carphone Warehouse.

Restaurant News

McDonald’s to offer free Internet access

Portland, Ore. ( December 16, 2009 ) McDonald’s Corp. plans to offer free wireless Internet access at most of its U.S. fast-food restaurants as a part of a move to become more of a destination spot.

The company has offered Internet access for about five years, but in mid-January it will lift the $2.95 fee it has charged for two hours of Internet access at 11,000 of its 14,000 U.S. locations. There will be no time limit after the fee is lifted.

Dunkin’ Brands names ATM vendor

Cherry Hill, N.J. ( December 15, 2009 ) Access to Money, one of the largest providers and non-bank operators of ATMs in the United States, has been selected by Dunkin’ Brands as one of only two approved vendors to offer ATM machines to its Dunkin’ Donuts network of franchisees.

The ATM program will be available to franchisees in New York and may expand to additional markets in 2010.

Report: Recovery in second half of 2010 for restaurants

New York City ( December 15, 2009 ) The restaurant industry will not begin recovery until the second half of 2010, according to a new forecast from The NPD Group.

Traffic and sales declines will slow during the year’s first half and will turn slightly positive starting in the third quarter, predicts NPD. “And it will take a year after that for the industry to return to where it was prior to the recession,” said Bonnie Riggs, the research group’s restaurant analyst and author of the report, “Restaurant Industry … What to Expect When Economic Recovery Begins.”

Applebee’s opens 2,000th location

New York City ( December 15, 2009 ) Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill and Bar on Monday opened its 2,000th restaurant, a milestone it had aspired to before being acquired in late 2007. The restaurant is located in the Harlem section of Manhattan.

“Applebee’s continues to grow in this tough economic environment,” Mike Archer, president of Applebee’s Services, said in a release. “As we open our 2,000th restaurant, we have a lot of momentum behind our brand, with new menu offerings, solid marketing improvements and a fiercer-than-ever commitment to be the number one casual dining choice in neighborhoods across America and the world.”

Other Retailers News

Sally Beauty Holdings purchases Sinelco Group

Denton, Texas ( December 17, 2009 ) Beauty supplies retailer and distributor Sally Beauty Holdings on Thursday said it purchased beauty products distributor Sinelco Group NV for approximately 25.5 million euros ($37.1 million) in cash, expanding its overseas presence.

Sinelco, based in Belgium, serves more than 1,500 customers in 35 countries through a product catalog, Web site and sales offices in Belgium, France and Italy.

Blockbuster launches iPhone app

DALLAS (Dec. 17) Blockbuster has launched a new application for the iPhone and iPod touch.

The new app enables customers to browse Blockbuster’s catalog of movies and television shows, check to see if the movie they want is in stock at their local participating Blockbuster store, build and manage an

online rental queue and locate their nearest Blockbuster store.

Toys”R”Us extends holiday store hours

WAYNE , N.J. (Dec. 16) Toys”R”Us announced that with nearly one week left until Christmas, it is extending store hours and its free shipping service.

Toys”R”Us stores across the country will open earlier and close later than ever before, the company announced, enabling customers to shop before work and after kids’ bedtime. Toys”R”Us locations will be open from 7 a.m. to midnight Dec. 16 and 17. Beginning Dec. 18 through Dec. 23, Toys”R”Us stores will remain open from 6 a.m. to midnight (some until 1 a.m.). On Christmas Eve, stores will be open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.

7-Eleven acquires New England Pantry

Dallas ( December 16, 2009 ) 7-Eleven announced the acquisition of New England Pantry, a company that operates 58 convenience stores under the White Hen Pantry brand, from affiliates of Sanders Morris Harris Group, a Houston-based wealth-management firm. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. The acquisition significantly expands 7-Eleven’s presence in the greater Boston area, bringing the number of outlets 7-Eleven operates and franchises to more than 170.

“This acquisition significantly strengthens our convenience offering in greater Boston,” said Bob Cozens, VP for 7-Eleven’s Northeast Division. “White Hen Pantry has a 40-year history of providing good customer service and high-quality products to consumers in the Boston area and we want to continue that tradition.”

eBay to open first mobile boutique

Los Angeles ( December 16, 2009 ) eBay is gearing up to open its first-ever eBay boutique on wheels. The mobile eBay store will debut on Thursday and be open for only two days. It will feature gift items for shoppers available to buy and take home on the spot.

The location is expected to include interactive shopping kiosks, personal shoppers and trend experts.

Cabela’s secures second amendment to credit facility

Sidney, Neb. ( December 16, 2009 ) Cabela’s said Tuesday it has completed a second change to its revolving credit facility that allows it to transfer up to $225 million of capital to its bank unit, World’s Foremost Bank, in 2010.

The retailer also can now contribute $25 million in capital to the bank in any fiscal year. To secure the amendment, Cabela’s paid a fee of 50 basis points of the revolving commitment amount. The credit facility expires June 30, 2012.

Price Chopper seeks to buy 22 Penn Traffic locations

New York City ( December 16, 2009 ) Price Chopper Supermarkets is offering $54 million in cash to acquire 22 of Penn Traffic’s locations, according to a filing in bankruptcy court yesterday.

Penn Traffic said it was seeking court approval to conduct the transaction as a private sale, rather than subject the stores to an auction. Conducting the transaction as a private sale is a condition of Price Chopper’s offer, according to the filing.

Staples offers last-minute Christmas deals

FRAMINGHAM , Mass. (Dec. 15) Staples announced that it will extend store hours on Dec. 23 and 24 to help customers pick up those last minute gifts.

In addition, Staples said that, during the week of Dec. 20, it will offer great deals on technology gifts and stocking stuffers. Customers can also visit Staples’ Holiday Center at www.staples.com/holidaysavings to find an expanded assortment of holiday gifts and great deals on top products.

TekservePOS raises donations through Amazing Retail Race event

Hoffman Estates, Ill. ( December 15, 2009 ) POS solution-provider TekservePOS announced that the kick-off event to its annual conference raised $12,000 in merchandise to benefit a Chicago-area charity.

TekservePOS launched tekSessions 2009, the company’s annual Retail Technology Conference, with a version of television show The Amazing Race. Teams made up of retailers, vendors and company employees raced through Chicago’s Woodfield Mall, purchased specific items on a list and finished at an undisclosed location.

PetSmart promotes supply chain exec

Phoenix ( December 15, 2009 ) PetSmart said Monday it has promoted Bruce Thorn to senior VP, supply chain.

Thorn will report to Joe O’Leary, senior VP, merchandising and supply chain.

PriceSmart founder Sol Price dies

San Diego ( December 14, 2009 ) Sol Price, a pioneer in warehouse marketing and founder of PriceSmart, has died. He was 93.

Price founded Price Club in the 1970s and left the company after it merged with Costco Wholesale Corp. in 1993.

General News

Survey: Online sales up in Nov., industry health down 0.9%

Redwood City, Calif. ( December 17, 2009 ) Total e-commerce revenue in November rose 4.4%, fueled by sales of promoted goods, according to MyBuys’ E-commerce Wellness Index, which measures the overall health of U.S. e-commerce and tracks key trends among retailers. MyBuys is a provider of personalized recommendations for retailers.

Within the month, total revenues from products sold at list price decreased by 3.4%, while total revenues from promoted items increased by 120%. The depth of discounts also increased slightly to just over 26% in November 2009, up from a discount level of 24% last year.

Specialty retail gift-card redemptions up

Atlanta ( December 16, 2009 ) Gift-card redemptions in specialty retail stores grew 12.3% last week, a significant year-over-year increase, according to First Data Corp., a provider of e-commerce and payment processing.

First Data’s Holiday Gift Card Performance Report compared gift-card sales for the week ending Dec. 13 with the same period in 2008.

Survey: Consumers still have lots of holiday shopping to do

Washington, D.C. ( December 16, 2009 ) Though the Christmas countdown is in its final stages, it seems shoppers still have plenty of shopping left to do. According to NRF’s 2009 Holiday Consumer Intentions and Actions Survey, conducted by BIGresearch, the average person had completed 46.7% of their holiday shopping by the second week of December, less than the 47.1% completed by this time last year. This is the lowest percentage since 2004, when the average person had completed 46.3% of their shopping by the same period.

“Retailers know the final lap counts the most and are planning to emphasize promotions and discounts to bring in last-minute shoppers,” said Tracy Mullin, President and CEO, NRF.

Report: Holiday online spending up 4%

New York City ( December 16, 2009 ) Holiday e-commerce spending for the first 43 days of the November –December 2009 holiday season totaled nearly $21 billion, marking a 4% increase versus the corresponding days last year, according to comScore.

The most recent week ending Dec. 13 reached $4.74 billion in spending, ranking as the heaviest online spending week on record. The previous high of $4.70 billion occurred during the week ending December 16, 2007.

Report: Year-over-year and weekly sales rise up

Chicago ( December 16, 2009 ) ShopperTrak’s National Retail Sales Estimate (NRSE) Wednesday reported that year-over-year GAFO retail sales rose 1.1% for the week ending Dec. 12, while sales increased a strong 18.2% versus the previous week ending Dec. 5.

GAFO retail sales showed improvement last week as holiday promotions resurfaced more prevalently following the post Black Friday weekend spending lull. Additionally, ShopperTrak reported late gift buying for Chanukah most likely helped boost sales late last week.

Survey: Walmart holiday ads tops with consumers

New York City ( December 15, 2009 ) Walmart has overtaken Target as the company with shoppers’ favorite holiday commercial, according to a Retail Advertising and Marketing Association survey. Target, which claimed the second spot this year, has topped the list since 2005, the first year of the survey, which was conducted by BIGresearch.

Other big news came from Gap, Hallmark and Old Navy, with Gap (No. 4) resurfacing on the list for the first time since 2006; Hallmark (No. 9) making the list for the first time; and Old Navy (No. 6) climbing three spots from last year’s ranking. Other companies in the Top 10 included: Best Buy (No. 3); Macy’s (No. 5); Kmart (No. 7); Sears (No. 8); and Kohl’s (No. 10).

Hacker pleads guilty in Hannaford breach

Newark, N.J. ( December 15, 2009 ) Albert Gonzalez, suspect in the data-theft case surrounding Hannaford Bros. supermarket chain, has pled guilty in U.S. District Court in Newark, N.J.

Gonzalez pled guilty to hacking into the computers of Heartland Payment Systems, Hannaford, 7-Eleven and two other unnamed national retailers.

Mall operator CBL names CEO

Chattanooga, Tenn. ( December 14, 2009 ) Mall operator CBL & Associates Properties has promoted Stephen D. Lebovitz to CEO.

Lebovitz will continue to serve as president of the company, succeeding his father Charles B. Lebovitz, who will continue with CBL as executive chairman and will continue to serve in the company’s operations and leadership.

Survey: Electronics top category this holiday season

Charleston, S.C. ( December 14, 2009 ) Robust sales of electronics is a bright spot this holiday shopping season as consumers rush to cash in on bargains, especially on flat-panel TV sets, according to the Christmas Retail Survey conducted by America’s Research Group (ARG) and UBS.

In fact, for the first time in over 25 years, electronics are virtually tied with toys as the top Christmas gift item, the survey found. When asked to name the gift item they were buying most often, 30.0% of consumers this year said “electronics,” while 30.8% said “toys.” The same question received a very different answer last year with only 23.7% naming “electronics” and 33.8% “toys.”

Report: Online spending expected to be big on ‘Green Monday’

Reston, Va. ( December 14, 2009 ) Dec.14 represents the best chance for an individual day to reach $900 million in spending this season, according to comScore.

“Monday, Dec. 14 – otherwise known as Green Monday – is likely to produce our heaviest online spending total for the season and represents our best opportunity to finally surpass that elusive $900 million spending threshold,” said comScore chairman Gian Fulgoni. “The early part of this upcoming week should bring us the heaviest online spending days of the season before consumers refocus their attention on brick-and-mortar retail locations to finish up their holiday shopping.”

Consumer Reports Index: Retail outlook up for December

Yonkers, N.Y. ( December 14, 2009 ) Despite lackluster retail numbers since August 2009, consumers have increased their retail spending markedly in November and the outlook for planned purchasing in December is strong, according to the Consumer Reports Index, December 2009 report.

The Consumer Reports Past 30-Day Retail Index (purchases made in November) has risen 24%, climbing to 11.2 from 9.0 last month. The outlook for planned purchases in the next 30 days is at 12.2, up from 9.0 the prior month, an increase of 36%. The major gains in retail spending are led by personal electronics, major electronics and small appliance purchasing.

Nov. retail sales gains a positive sign

Arlington, Va. ( December 11, 2009 ) Retail sales were up slightly in November for the fourth consecutive month as store traffic was enough to offset smaller basket sizes, said the Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA).

High unemployment and job insecurity continued to dampen consumer spending as cost conscious consumers sought out extreme value purchases.

Z Global Mart The Fashion Industry’s Virtual Trade Show

Fashion Trade Show welcomes Amanda Uprichard women’s line Z Global Mart Booth 104

Amanda Uprichard uses luxurious silks to create modern day classics. Feminine, sweet and colorful, Amanda Uprichard collections showcase what it means to be a lady.

New York City fashion designer Amanda Uprichard first made her mark as a musician, then as the founder of hip SoHo clothing boutique Living Doll.Gorgeous colors and sumptuous fabrics define Amanda Uprichard’s designs capture the essence of the modern romantic. Amanda Uprichard designer clothing has been seen on Sex and the City, and is a favorite among stars like Hilary Duff.

We at Z Global Mart are very excited to have such a prestigious designer join us as we help build booths for numerous designers.

Introducing Z Global Mart for Apparel Exhibitors

Our goal is to become the premiere On Line International Fashion Trade Show and hereby extend our invitation to the Exhibitors who exhibited with their booth at major trade shows. We went live on September 2, 2009 and are in the process of populating the site with design exhibitors and sourcing exhibitors, we expect to have in place around 100 exhibitors whithin the next 30 days or so. We’ve been interviewed by a reporter from Senken Newspaper, the largest fashion daily paper in Japan, and the big article was published on 11/16/09. We’re in the process of reaching an agreement with PTEA (Pakistan Textile Exporters Association) that does around $400 billion a year to bring their sourcing members to our site. We also just reached an accord with MUDPIE the famous Fashion Trends Company from London to exchange links, banners and cross promote one another.

We all know that physical trade shows are important and are here to stay, however the costs are very high, the number of shows are too many, the cost of disruption to your business due to travel and time is high, and in these difficult times its very important to control costs which is why today’s entreprenuers have to cut back on the number of shows they attend and use other avenues to maximize return on investment with a global reach. Its time for Z Global Mart your new international partner.

Please take a look at our site, it has two parts, the flash side that tells you who we are and what we’ve created for you, then once you take the tour (its free) you can see the ecommerce side with the exhibitor booths and all their features as outlined below, just go to http://www.zglobalmart.com

THE FASHION INDUSTRY’S VIRTUAL TRADE SHOW®

By

Z GlobalMart

The Fashion Industry’s Virtual Trade Show by ZGlobalMart is a B2B site for women’s apparel, men’s clothing, youth and juniors trendy getup, apparel accessories, and sourcing companies. ZGlobalMart is essentially an international fashion trade show happening on the Internet, bringing together fashion designers, sourcing companies, manufacturers, reps, distributors, importers, exporters, wholesalers from all over the world, all showcasing trade show collections, available inventory, and sourcing/services for wholesale apparel and clothing buyers, retail clothing and apparel stores, clothing and apparel boutiques, department store buyers, independent clothing and apparel retailers on a scale never before seen, open 365 days 24/7. Join us in the New Era of Fashion.

Site Features:

Affordable launching of lines and sourcing services worldwide
Promoting on a worldwide basis all the exhibitors as they become members through press releases, social media and fashion associations
Each Exhibitor has its own Professional Numbered Booth they control, Show-casing their existing, and to be delivered items
Exhibitors and Attendees handle their own transactions, including shipping (no % of sales fees)
Exhibitors and Attendees are screened
Fashion Industry’s Code of Ethics in place (exhibitors can’t see other exhibitors lines)
Fostering of New Talent (affordable launching of lines and Fashion Show for top 10)
Video Conferencing Capabilities for the all important “Face to Face” contact
Exhibitors post their photo, 3 +/- minute videos of their line, with full contact information
Professional mood shots and photos only and ability to look at detail
Membership in exclusive community through zglobalmart blog (share, mentor, promote)
Unique, Classy B2B site, incorporating Social Media features and ease of use qualities (not an off-price, close-out, liquidation site)
No Disruption to your business through travel and the cost associated with it, be it as an exhibitor or attendee
Links to Trade Publications, Associations, Networks, Government Agencies, Factoring Companies

Costs: All Exhibitors, Sourcing, and Attendees receive a 60 day free trial from sign up, then they can choose as follows:

Design Exhibitors: a) Month to month $500.00 cancellable; b) Yearly paid up-front $4,800 ($400 per month basis)

Sourcing Exhibitors: a) Month to month $149.00 cancellable; b) Yearly paid up-front $1,188 ($99 per month basis)

Attendees: a) FREE

ALL HAVE UNLIMITED ACCESS
We look forward to your feedback and hope to have you join us in the new era of fashion

Z Global Mart