Marketing

DEERFIELD, Ill. — Walgreens on Monday named Steve Pemberton the company’s divisional VP of diversity and inclusion, becoming the company’s first chief diversity officer.

New York City -- A $15 billion share buyback program, unveiled earlier in June, will allow Wal-Mart Stores’ founder Sam Walton’s descendants to see their stake in the chain edge up above 50%.

After Walton died in 1992, family members retained a stake of around 38% from the mid-1990s to the mid-2000s. Starting in 2003, a series of big share buybacks began to push the family stake higher, to 43% in 2008 and now to 49%, according to the latest filings.

By Lindsey Lanzisero, [email protected] and Craig Rowley, [email protected]

NEW YORK — Phillips-Van Heusen announced that it has entered into a licensing agreement with Ram Pacific under which Ram Pacific will market and distribute apparel and accessories under PVH’s IZOD brand in Singapore, Indonesia, and Malaysia. The initial term of the license agreement runs through December 2015 and provides for a renewal at PVH’s option.

NEW YORK — New Balance has partnered with supermodel Heidi Klum for a new line of women's footwear to be sold exclusively on Amazon.com, beginning this month.

"We all need a good pair of sneakers whether its for running to the gym or running to the store," said Klum.  "I have extended my line with New Balance and designed a few stylish pairs of sneakers. Very exciting!"

HINGHAM, Mass. — Talbots reported that first quarter income from continuing operations was $0.9 million, or 1 cent per share, compared with last year’s loss from continuing operations of $7.1 million, or 12 cents per share.

Amsterdam -- Dutch retailer Koninklijke Ahold N.V. reported Tuesday that profit for the first quarter increased 6% to $423.84 million, citing a 6% sales rise and lowered operating costs for the improved performance.

Ahold generates more than half its sales in the United States through its Stop & Shop, Giant Carlisle and Giant Landover banners. In the Netherlands, it operates under the Albert Heijn banner.

The company didn't give any guidance or detail on its growth strategy.
 

The mixed-use project MarketStreet Lynnfield continues to forge ahead, as co-developers WS Development and National Development announced on June 6 that Whole Foods Market, Kings and Legal C Bar have signed leases to join the property.

Whole Foods will open a 45,000-sq.-ft. store at MarketStreet Lynnfield, which is located on Route 128/I-95 spanning Exits 42 and 43 in Lynnfield, Mass.