Mergers & Acquisitions

Online retailing is changing the game for pet parents.   Specifically, 40% of pet owners are opting to buy pet products online, up from 37% the previous year, and notably higher than results from 2014, according to U.S. Pet Market Outlook, 2017-2018. The report, from research firm Packaged Facts, highlights mergers and acquisitions, retail channel trends, and pet owner demographics and spending habits.  

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.  

CBRE has widened its footprint in South Florida by buying the business assets of the Brenner Real Estate Group, which has offices in Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, and Melbourne.   Founded by Scott Brenner in 1987, the company provides leasing brokerage, investment sales, and property management services through more than 20 associates.  

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.   

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.