Labor & Employment

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.

Morrisville, N.C. -- Lowe's Cos. announced Tuesday that it is laying off approximately 1,700 middle managers across the United States in an effort to cut costs as its profit trains rival The Home Depot. The retailer also plans to add 8,000 to 10,000 weekend sales assistants to improve staffing during its stores’ busiest times.

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.

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- DSW Inc. announced the appointment of Christopher Lanning as SVP general manager of the leased business division.  Lanning will be responsible for managing DSW's existing leased business client base and developing new account relationships.

Philadelphia -- A survey released Tuesday by management consultancy Hay Group, ranking the 20 best companies for in terms of leadership, said that both Walmart and McDonald’s made the sixth annual list, but incumbents Zappos and Ikea dropped out of the rankings.