Finance & Capital Management

Consumers spending outlook brightens in May
Consumer spending in May increased 4.2%, according to the latest SpendTrend report from First Data Corporation, with the retail sector enjoying renewed vigor.

First Data’s SpendTrend tracks same-store point-of-sale data by credit, signature debit, PIN debit, EBT, closed-loop prepaid cards and checks from nearly four million merchant locations serviced by First Data. The spending increase of 4.2%, compared to 4.1% in April.
First Data: Consumer spending grows 4.2% in May
Atlanta — Consumer spending in the United States grew 4.2% year-over-year in May 2014, compared to April’s 4.1% year-over-year growth. According to Spend Trend analysis from First Data Corp., spending growth was driven by May’s warm weather, which specifically spurred spending on travel and home improvement.

Board drama at Lululemon

Lululemon founder Chip Wilson has voted against the re-election of Michael Casey and RoAnn Costin to the company’s board of directors.

Wilson founded the company in 1998, and has seen it evolve through many business cycles, expanding it from a small storefront in Vancouver to an international brand with more than 250 stores.
Pep Boys does digital with tires under pressure

Automotive service is one thing Amazon.com can’t offer online, but Pep Boys has figured out how to digitally enable its business to drive solid growth.
Burlington Stores swings to Q1 profit, will open net 25 new stores

Burlington, N.J. — Burlington Stores Inc. had an all-around strong first quarter of fiscal 2014 that included a better-than-expected net income of %11.77 million, up from a net loss of $5.56 million in year-ago period. The retailer expects to open 25 net new stores during the fiscal year, including the opening of one new store and closing of one existing store in the second quarter.
Francesca’s profit drops 21%, 85 new stores planned

Houston — Francesca’s Holdings Corp. on Tuesday reported a 21% drop in profit during the first quarter of fiscal 2014, to $8.6 million from $10.9 million. Harsh winter weather and higher expenses related to its boutique business contributed to the decline in net income. The company also reduced its annual outlook.

Francesca’s plans to open 85 new stores during fiscal 2014, including 16 in the second quarter.
Ulta Beauty looks good as weather no worry

With an 8.7% same store sales increase, the addition of 21 new stores, a burgeoning digital business and surging first quarter profits, Ulta Beauty demonstrated why it is one of the retail industry’s most compelling growth stories.
RadioShack loss widens to $98 million; 200 stores to shutter

Fort Worth, Texas — RadioShack Corp. reported a widening net loss in the first quarter of its fiscal year 2015. The troubled retailer also confirmed plans to close up to 200 stores by the end of the year, based on location, area demographics, lease life and financial performance.

The retailer reported a net loss of $98.3 million, up from $28 million in the same quarter the prior fiscal year.
Martinez in new role at HSN

Maria Martinez was elevated to the role of chief human resources officer at HSN, Inc., a $3.4 billion interactive multichannel retailer.
Dunkin’ Donuts details California expansion

Canton, Mass. — Dunkin’ Donuts has filed for permits to open its first traditional restaurants in California. The new restaurants are planned for Downey, Long Beach, Modesto, Santa Monica and Whittier.

Finance & Capital Management

Consumers spending outlook brightens in May

First Data: Consumer spending grows 4.2% in May

Board drama at Lululemon

Pep Boys does digital with tires under pressure

Burlington Stores swings to Q1 profit, will open net 25 new stores

Francesca’s profit drops 21%, 85 new stores planned

Ulta Beauty looks good as weather no worry

RadioShack loss widens to $98 million; 200 stores to shutter

Martinez in new role at HSN

Dunkin’ Donuts details California expansion