Labor & Employment

American Apparel Inc. is launching a restructuring plan aimed at cutting costs as the retailer looks to turn around its struggling business.

The retailer said it would be closing stores, cutting jobs and unveil a new fall line.

Los Angeles -- American Apparel on Monday announced it would close some stores as part of a $30 million cost-cutting initiative in its strategic turnaround plan. (American Apparel CEO Paula Schneider discussed the plan with CSA in a recent interview.) The embattled company also made two other revealing disclosures.

Lowe's says it is making an investment in its long-term financial strategy with its latest move on its finance team.

New York -- Let’s be clear about one thing: Paula Schneider is not changing the DNA of American Apparel. The apparel industry veteran, who took the reins of the troubled retail company in January 2015, is quite proud of the brand’s progressive spirit.

“We are a very inclusive brand,” Schneider told Chain Store Age. “One that gives everyone the opportunity to express themselves. You can see it in our clothes and in the causes we support.”

Rite Aid has named a 30-year company veteran to the newly created post of group VP of risk and controls.

New York -- Swedish fast-fashion giant H&M isn’t letting the strong U.S. dollar hurt its expansion plans.

The chain plans to open about 400 new stores in 2015-2016. It is expanding into five new markets: Taiwan, Peru, Macau, South Africa and India. Other plans include the launch of H&M Beauty this July, starting in about 900 stores and online. The company also hinted at the development of a mysterious new brand.

Katy, Texas – Academy Sports + Outdoors is hitting a landmark in its store count.

The sporting goods chain will open its 200th store in Tupelo, Mississippi on July 3.

The Tupelo store will be approximately 63,000-sq.-ft. and will bring 100 new jobs to the area. This will be the first location in Tupelo and the fifth store in Mississippi.

Sears Hometown and Outlet Stores has promoted its chief operating officer to CEO.

The board of directors has elected William (Will) A. Powell as the company’s chief executive officer and resident, effective immediately. Powell succeeds W. Bruce Johnson, who as previously announced is stepping down.