Consumer Affairs & Relations

CINCINNATI and BENTONVILLE, Ark. -- Walmart and Procter & Gamble's Family Movie Night initiative is celebrating one year, and the companies plan to continue their partnership with the addition of five more movies in 2011.

BOCA RATON, Fla. -- Office Depot announced that, from April 17 through April 23, it is inviting customers to trade in their used writing instruments regardless of brand to any of its retail stores nationwide. In exchange for ten pens, pencils or markers, customers will receive a coupon toward a new product from Newell Rubbermaid Office Products. The collected instruments will be sent to TerraCycle to be turned into new office supply products ranging from trash cans to desk organizers.

TOPEKA, Kan. -- Payless ShoeSource announced that Andrew Meyer has been named SVP and general merchandise manager for Payless' women's and accessories businesses, reporting to LuAnn Via, president and CEO of Payless.

GOODLETTSVILLE, Tenn. -- Dollar General have announced their partnership to increase awareness of autism and raise funds for autism research and advocacy during Autism Awareness Month in April.

“This disorder affects many of our customers and we are proud to help fund research for the cause,” said Rick Dreiling, chairman and CEO of Dollar General.

Atlanta -- The charitable arm of The Home Depot pledged $30 million over three years to address veterans' housing issues. The pledge starts with the donation of $3.1 million to Fisher House Foundation, The Mission Continues and Volunteers of America to repair and rehabilitate facilities and homes serving veterans.

Home Depot employees also will volunteer to help on projects for all three organizations.

New York City -- A report by the Associated Press revealed that Gap CEO Glenn Murphy received compensation worth nearly $6 million in 2010, an 18% increase from the year before.

Most of the increase came from a one-time bonus and stock awards. Murphy didn't receive any stock awards the year before.
 

BENTONVILLE, Ark. and HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill. -- Walmart and Sears Holdings have both announced their commitment to helping military members maintain employment when moving from one community to another.

Consumers are using credit more responsibly, according to the latest delinquency data released by Target. The percentage of accounts 60 days and 90 days past due in Target’s credit portfolio experienced meaningful declines during March, and are now at their lowest level in more than two years.