Marketing

There is a new identity option for retailers eager to stand out in a competitive digital landscape.   The introduction of the 'dot-shopping' (.shopping) domain provides retailers with another way to brand themselves online. Launched by domain name provider Donuts Inc., the new digital names, also called "not-com" domains, can be used as a brand’s main e-commerce name. It can also point shoppers to a company’s existing online shopping web site, or a marketing or promotional site.  

There are few demographic segments that have generated as much discussion in the retail community as Millennials. A great deal of literal and virtual ink has been spilled discussing the importance of catering to this large and influential group of young adults. From their spending habits to their social and behavioral characteristics, addressing the priorities and preferences of Millennials is seen as critically important for any retailer that wants to remain competitive in today’s marketplace.  

Shoppers at select West Elm stores will soon have their very own listening rooms — with state-of-the art sound speakers.   The home furnishings retailer announced a partnership with Sonos to sell the company’s sound speakers and components in its U.S. stores and website, and to install “Sonos listening labs” in 16 West Elm stores. The listening rooms will be outfitted with West Elm’s signature modern furnishings and accessories and Sonos home sound system products.   

JLL has been selected to manage retail leasing for Woodmore Towne Center in Glenarden, Maryland, which is being expanded into a 245-acre mixed-use development.   Under construction at the location east of Washington D.C. off the Capital Beltway are 1,100 residential units, two hotels, and a million sq. ft. of office space. Expansion of the retail space, which has drawn Nordstrom Rack to the center, will bring it to a total of 800,000 sq. ft.  

Who says you can’t go home again?   Certainly not Gap Inc., which appointed Jamie Gersch as the senior VP, chief marketing officer of its Old Navy banner, reported adage.com. She replaces Ivan Wicksteed, who left the company in March. She will come aboard at the end of October.  

American Eagle continues to strengthen its management team to further drive its growth.   Bob Madore has been appointed executive VP and CFO, starting Oct. 28. In his new role, Madore will oversee all aspects of finance, merchandise planning and allocation, and investor relations. He will report to American Eagle’s CEO Jay Schottenstein.  

Farm-and-ranch industry leader Tractor Supply has always been interested in the pet business, and it even operates two standalone HomeTown Pet stores in Tennessee.

There is a leadership change underway at Stein Mart.   Dawn Robertson resigned from her position of CEO and company direc-tor. D. Hunt Hawkins, the chain’s president and COO, has been named interim CEO.