Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores has reduced energy by switching to solid-state lighting in the parking lot at its Ohio headquarters and adjacent store. The energy-efficient LEDs have also had a positive impact on the overall appearance of the areas.


“We’re seeing an 80% lighting-system energy savings compared with our previous high-intensity discharge units,” said Debbie Mansfield, director, energy and facilities for Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores, Hudson, Ohio, which operates more than 751 stores nationwide.


New concepts remain the lifeblood of retail. A child- and mom-friendly apparel specialty store, two Canadian imports, an iconic 102-year-old brand and a Polish cosmetics giant are among the latest companies looking to make their mark on the nation’s retail scene. The five up-and-comers are profiled here.


TradeStone Software said Thursday that Hudson’s Bay Trading Co. has selected the company’s Merchandise Lifecycle Management solutions to unify the retailer’s design, sourcing, ordering and delivery of private-label and branded goods.

Hudson’s Bay Trading Co., parent company of Lord & Taylor and its namesake Canadian chain Hudson’s Bay Co., which operates more than 600 retail locations across its banners the Bay, Zellers, Home Outfitters and Fields.