Finance & Capital Management

Retail has historically been one of the most technically advanced industries, particularly in warehouses and the last mile. The industry is no stranger to automation as fast and efficient supply chains are the foundation of a strong retail operation in a competitive environment. Over the past few decades, increasing automation at the supply chain level has directly impacted both revenue and the bottom line.   

A German discount grocer has set its sights on becoming the third-largest American food retailer by store count, behind Walmart and Kroger.   

Gymboree has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.    The retailer announced the filing, which had been expected, on Monday morning. The chain said it has partnered with AlixPartners to assist with turnaround efforts.   

Dollar Tree has promoted a key executive as the discounter continues its rapid expansion.   The retailer, which plans to open 650 stores in 2017, has promoted Michael A. Witynski to president and COO of its Dollar Tree division. Witynski will be responsible for merchandising, marketing and store operations for Dollar Tree stores in the United States.    

It appears that L'Oreal has settled on a buyer for The Body Shop.   The French cosmetics giant is in exclusive talks to sell its Body Shop division to Brazilian make-up company Natura Cosmeticos, Bloomberg reported. The reported price: $1.1 billion,   Natura is the largest Brazilian cosmetics company.   The transaction would be subject to regulatory approval and would be expected to close later this year.    

A local landmark, which also happens to be one of KFC's most iconic locations, has reopened after a $2.2 million renovation.  

One of the world's largest retailers has appointed a new chief executive as its looks to catch up with the online revolution and shore up its home performance.   Carrefour has named Alexandre Bompard, 44, as its new chairman and CEO, effective July 18, ending an eight-month search. He succeeds Georges Plassat, who has served in the top position at the hypermarket retailer, which operates more than 11,900 stores in over 30 countries, since 2012.   

A new report suggests that Walgreens Boots Alliance’s acquisition of Rite Aid may be in jeopardy.    The Capital Forum reported that the Federal Trade Commission's staff are prepared to recommend that the agency file a lawsuit to stop the deal, according to Reuters. A source close to the deal told Reuters that FTC staff has asked companies and groups concerned about the deal for depositions and affidavits that could be used in a lawsuit aimed at stopping it.