Labor & Employment

Loehmann’s adds e-commerce veteran
In an effort to bolster its online presence, Loehmann’s has appointed a digital retail expert to join its advisory board. Tony D'Annibale, president of Jessica's Brands, will work with the board and the management team during the Loehmann’s re-launch as an online retailer.
Food industry finds new friend in high place
Few people in the food industry know the name Denzel McGuire, but that’s about to change as she just became the industry’s best friend in the nation’s capital.

McGuire has been named EVP of government relations at the Grocery Manufacturers Association, which is a big deal considering the food industry is under relentless pressure and regulatory scrutiny. GMA needs a strong voice and a connected presence in the nation’s capital to represent the interests of its members and McGuire fits the bill on both fronts, according to GMA President and CEO Pam Bailey.

Lowe’s plans 3 new Canadian stores

Mooresville, N.C. – Lowe’s Companies Inc. will open three new stores in Canada, starting with a 94,500-sq.-ft. store in Lethbridge, Alberta in spring 2015. Lowe’s also plans to open an 86,000-sq.-ft. store in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan and a 75,000-sq.-ft. store in Saulte Ste. Marie, Ontario.
Destination Maternity adds investor to board

Destination Maternity has appointed the managing partner of investment firm Voce Capital to the company's board of directors.

"As a long-term investor in Destination Maternity, we look forward to bringing additional shareholder perspective to the board and continuing to work constructively with the company to help enhance its value," J. Daniel Plants of Voce Capital said.
Employers tolerating Cyber Monday distraction

Cyber Monday may just as well be an official holiday considering findings of a new study that show how little work actually gets done.
Fred’s turns red in Q3, will close 47 stores

Memphis, Tenn. – Fred’s Inc. swung to a net loss of $10.4 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2014, compared to net income of $7.3 million in the same quarter a year earlier. Costs associated with closing five underperforming stores in the third quarter, and an anticipated 47 stores in the fourth quarter, contributed to the loss, which exceeded Wall Street projections. However Fred’s beat the Street with third quarter sales of$476.2 million, up 3% from $460.5 million. Same-store sales rose 0.3%.
Tiffany’s same store sales sparkle

Tiffany & Co. reported a better-than-expected increase in same-store sales, mainly due to strong demand for high-end fashion jewelry in North and South America.
Retail Forecast 2015

Recent trends bode well for consumer spending

Blue skies and cool breezes. That’s the economic forecast as the calendar turns for a new year.
Charming Charlie coming to the Big Apple; names Victoria’s Secret exec as head of merchandising

New York - The fast-growing accessories retailer Charming Charlie is entering the New York City market in spring 2015.
Retail Rap: Holi-delays?

Loehmann’s adds e-commerce veteran

Food industry finds new friend in high place

Lowe’s plans 3 new Canadian stores

Destination Maternity adds investor to board

Employers tolerating Cyber Monday distraction

Fred’s turns red in Q3, will close 47 stores

Tiffany’s same store sales sparkle

Retail Forecast 2015

Charming Charlie coming to the Big Apple; names Victoria’s Secret exec as head of merchandising

Retail Rap: Holi-delays?