Mergers & Acquisitions

Harrys of London has a new owner with an interesting portfolio who wants to expand the brand.   The luxury footwear and accessories brand has been acquired by Charles S. Cohen, a New York real estate developer and media entrepreneur. Cohen, who acquired 100% interest in Harrys from Palladin Consumer Retail Partners, will assume the position of chairman. Palladin acquired a majority stake in Harrys in 2014.  

David’s Bridal has entered a brand new market.    David's Bridal has partnered with Diltex, a leading manufacturer and retailer of intimate apparel in Mexico, to open its first franchise location in Mexico City. The store opens on Saturday, May 20, 2017.   

The City of Angels has joined the growing list of cities that will feature an Amazon Books store.   Amazon submitted a building application to open a 5,227-sq.-ft. suite at the Westfield Century City mall in Los Angeles on May 9. The online retailer received initial plan check approval the same day, according to a record on the L.A. Department of Building and Safety website.  

Although Walmart is an old-school retailer, it is not afraid to learn new tricks and to shift its thinking. This youthful and innovative approach has helped it deliver another solid set of results in a highly competitive market.  

Yesway has expanded its store network.   The convenience store company announced it has acquired 35 Wes-T-Go and Chillerz stores in Abilene, Texas. The acquired stores will be added to Yesway’s existing portfolio of 38 locations currently operating in Iowa and Kansas.  

The Buckle is losing its finance chief.   The apparel retailer on Thursday said that Karen B. Rhoads, senior VP of finance and CFO, will retire later this summer. She will continue to serve as a member of the board. Rhodes joined the Buckle in 1980, and has served as CFO since 1991.     The retailer has hired an executive search firm to assist with the search for Rhoads’ replacement. Rhoads will remain in her role to support the search and to assist with the transition.  

An online start-up has turned to a traditional retailer to help grown its brand.    Target Corp. has entered into a partnership with Casper, an online brand credited with disrupting the mattress category. Target will start selling the brand’s mattresses and other products, including a few exclusive items, beginning on June 18.    

The Azarian Group has acquired The Livingston Town Center in Livingston, New Jersey in a $21.2 million trade arranged by Cushman Wakefield.   The 11-year-old lifestyle retail property houses a diverse mix of 28 restaurants and shops, including Fan Bistro, an upscale Asian spot, Restore Cold Pressed Juices, and Dentistry with a Smile. Fit 36 and Xtend Barre are scheduled to open there soon.    

Amazon may have its sights set on a new, multi-billion dollar market.   The online giant may be on the cusp of entering the pharmaceutical dispensing business, according to a report by CNBC. The company reportedly has hired a general manager whose role is said to be helping the online retailer explore how to hang a pharmacy shingle.  

Washington Prime Group and O’Connor Capital Partner announced the formation of a joint venture partnership in seven open-air retail centers. WPG will be the controlling partner with a 51% stake.   The seven properties are:   • Arbor Hills in Ann Arbor, Michigan;  • Classen Curve/Nichols Hills Plaza/The Triangle at Classen Curve in Oklahoma City;  • Gateway Center in Austin, Texas;  • Palms Crossing in McAllen, Texas;