Labor & Employment

Washington, D.C. -- The National Retail Federation welcomed President Obama’s recognition of the importance of the retail industry to job creation in Tuesday night’s State of the Union address, and pledged to work with the White House on initiatives to promote continuation of the nation’s economic recovery.

WASHINGTON — The largest retail trade association on Wednesday said that President Obama's State of the Union address recognized the industry's role in job creation.

The National Retail Federation said that the president's "continued support of 'commonsense safeguards,'" which included support of such proposals as swipe fee limits, "will help retailers innovate and support the consumer spending that is crucial to job creation."

Indianapolis  -- Simon Property Group will assume leasing, management, and marketing duties at The Shops at Montebello, in Rosemead, Calif., effective Feb. 1.

"We are pleased to take on the property management functions of this high-quality asset at the request of the institutional owner," said Rick Sokolov, Simon's president and COO.

WASHINGTON --The National Retail Federation announced that it welcomed the focus on job creation and the economy expected in President Obama’s State of the Union Address.

Washington, D.C. -- The Conference Board said Tuesday that its Consumer Confidence Index reached its highest level in eight months as Americans grew more optimistic about the job market.

The Index climbed to 60.6 this month, up from 53.3 in December. While that reading surpassed expectations, it still falls short of the 90 level that indicates a healthy consumer mindset.

The January figure was the highest since last May's 62.7, and hasn’t been above 90 since the recession began in December 2007.

York, Pa. -- The Bon-Ton Stores said Monday that it has extended president and CEO Bud Bergren's contract through Feb. 5, 2012, and has promoted Barbara Schrantz to COO.

Under the newly announced agreement, Bergren's contract will automatically renew annually, unless the board chooses otherwise. Schrantz will assume the role of COO on Jan. 30. She is currently executive VP sales promotion and marketing.

YORK, Pa. -- The Bon-Ton Stores announced its board of directors unanimously approved an amendment to Bud Bergren’s employment agreement, which states Bergren will continue to serve as president and CEO through Feb. 5, 2012. His term as president and CEO will automatically renew for successive periods of one year unless either the company or Bergren elects not to renew his term as president and CEO.

Columbus, Ohio -- DSW said Monday it has appointed Christopher Lanning as senior VP and general manager of the retailer’s Leased Business Division.

Lanning will be responsible for managing DSW's existing leased business client base and developing new account relationships. DSW currently operates 353 shoe departments in conjunction with leased business partners, which include Steinmart, Gordmans, Filene's Basement and Frugal Fannie's.