Labor & Employment

In a scenario that few could have predicted, Walmart has emerged as one of President Obama’s most reliable corporate allies, a partner that has backed the White House on more than a dozen initiatives, including Obamacare and climate change, bloomberg.com reported.  

Amazon announced plans to open a fulfillment center in Coppell, Texas. It will be the Internet giant’s eighth center in the Lone Star State.   “Our ability to expand Texas operations within three short years is the result of two things: incredible customers and an outstanding workforce in the state,” said Akash Chauhan, Amazon’s VP of North American operations.   

Michaels Cos. said increased spending cut into its bottom line in the second quarter. The chain lowered its same-stores outlook for the rest of the year, citing a “choppy” retail environment.    For the quarter ended July 30, the company posted a profit of $35.6 million, compared with $35.7 million in the year-ago period, amid spending to integrate recently-acquired arts and craft wholesaler Lamrite West and the timing of distribution expenses.  

The Michaels Companies, named Denise Paulonis as executive VP – CFO, effective Aug. 29. The appointment is part of the retailer’s previously announced CFO succession plan.   Paulonis, currently senior VP – finance, succeeds Chuck Sonsteby, vice chairman and CFO. He will continue to serve as vice chairman and will retain executive responsibility for the growth and integration of Lamrite West and the management of Aaron Brothers stores.    

Signet Jewelers Ltd. reported its first drop in same-store sales in six years in its second quarter as the company continues to deal with rumors that it swapped expensive diamonds for cheaper stones.   Signet, whose banners include Zale, Kay Jewelers and Jared, posted a 2.3% drop in same-store sales in the quarter ended July 30. Wall Street analysts had expected a slight increase.   Net sales fell 2.6% to $1.37 billion.  

The battle between bankrupt Aeropostale Inc. and Sycamore Partners has grown more heated.     Aeropostale and its junior creditors have come together in an effort to save the chain, but Sycamore isn’t having any part of it. The private equity firm has filed an objection that opposes the retailer’s second amended joint plan of reorganization. Sycamore believes that liquidation is the best option.  

Perfumania Holdings announced the appointment of Neal Montany as COO of the company, effective Aug. 29.   Montany will oversee the fragrance and beauty retailer’s operations, including IT, manufacturing, warehousing and facilities, logistics, loss prevention, purchasing and human resources.    

Let’s talk about pizza, shall we? A truly historic and transformative moment occurred in Cincinnati, Ohio early this month that changes the way college students can satisfy their late night munchies. Xavier University installed the nation’s first Pizza ATM. It’s open 24 hours a day, seven days a week and serves up fresh, restaurant-quality pizza cooked in minutes. The school’s dining service announced the occasion with a Tweet that reads, “One small step for pepperoni, one giant leap for pizzakind.”