Consumer Affairs & Relations

New York City -- Lexlie Wexner, 73, the CEO and founder of Limited Brands, received a 2010 pay package nearly double the year before, according to an analysis by The Associated Press. The increase came as business improved for the parent of Victoria's Secret and Bath and Body Works.

Wexner's total compensation totaled $20.1 million, up from $10.4 million in 2009, because of a hefty increase in stock and option awards and a higher performance-based bonus.

INDIANAPOLIS -- Finish Line announced that Don Courtney will retire as president e-commerce, following a transition period. Courtney will remain in his current role throughout the transition as the company conducts a search for his successor. He will continue to report to Finish Line president and chief merchandising officer Sam Sato. The e-Commerce leadership team that reports to Courtney remains in place.

NEW YORK -- Concern about rising energy prices and higher medical costs has many Americans expecting to spend less in the months ahead, a recent Deloitte study revealed. Despite showing no signs of spending less in recent months, the Deloitte survey found that nearly three-quarters (74%) of Americans believe higher prices could slow their spending in the months ahead.  Deloitte's study also revealed that mobile and social connections are helping shoppers make savvier buying decisions in the wake of the recession.

WASHINGTON — While the calendar shift of Easter may have taken a toll on retailers' march performance, April sales should see a boost, as the National Retail Federation noted that consumers intend to spend more this year than in 2010.

New York City -- Tiffany & Co. CEO Michael Kowalski received a pay package worth nearly $7.1 million for 2010, a 13% increase over 2009, according to a report by the Associated Press.

A Securities and Exchange Commission filing on Friday showed that Michael J. Kowalski, 59, received a base salary of $958,957 and a performance-based bonus of nearly $1.6 million.
 
The bulk of his award came in the form of stock and option grants worth $4.4 million when they were granted.

MARYSVILLE, Ohio  -- The Scotts Miracle-Gro announced that Jim Lyski has been named EVP and chief marketing officer, reporting to ScottsMiracle-Gro president Barry Sanders.

New York City -- A judge ruled Thursday that a San Diego pro-gay marriage group can continue canvassing outside of Target stores in California, the Associated Press reported. However, protestors must stay 30 ft. away from store entrances and canvass at just one entrance at a time.

The retailer had sought an injunction barring the activists from every outlet in the state, alleging they harass customers by cornering them near store entrances to discuss gay marriage, solicit donations and collect signatures on petitions.

CINCINNATI -- Kroger announced that it has set a 2015 goal of sourcing 100% of its top 20 wild-caught seafood species from sources certified by the Marine Stewardship Council, in full assessment, or involved in a Fishery Improvement Project with World Wildlife Fund.