Strategy

Neil Saunders, CEO of retail insights and consulting firm Conlumino, comments on J.C. Penney’s results for the third quarter in which sales came in under forecasts.   “After a good run of growth, J.C. Penney has faltered this quarter with both total and comparable sales slipping into negative territory. While the company is now overlapping some tougher prior year comparatives, this is nonetheless a disappointing outcome that takes the shine off some of the recent progress made under its recovery program.  

As the country continues to nurse its emotional Election Day hangover, businesses, including retailers, are contemplating what policies from President Elect Trump’s agenda will be tackled first in an effort to “Make America Great Again.”   

Nordstrom delivered a strong performance in its fiscal third quarter even as a hefty charge related to its Trunk Club business ate into its profit.   Total net sales rose 7.2% to a better-than-expected $3.5 billion from $3.2 billion a year ago, fueled by the shift of the company’s popular anniversary sale to the quarter. Same-store sales increased 2.4%, also more than expected. As it has done in recent past quarters, Nordstrom Rack outpaced the full-priced division, Net sales were up more than 10%, and same-store sales rose nearly 4%.

J. Jill Group Inc. is moving forward with plans for an initial public offering.   The Quincy, Massachusetts-based retailer has tapped Bank of America, Morgan Stanley, and Jefferies Group LLC as underwriters for a possible initial public offering, Reuters reported.     

Will President-elect Donald Trump be good for Kroger’s business? The retailer’s stock has enjoyed a sharp rise since Trump was named the 45th president. 

Alex and Ani has promoted Cindy DiPietrantonio to president of the company.           DiPietrantonio joined the jewelry and lifestyle brand in July 2016 as interim COO, and her transition to president has happened in “a very natural, organic way,” the company said.  

Today, many businesses make free shipping standard. Or, establish majorly moderate price points through which consumers can earn free shipping.    However, free shipping often comes with a price – literally and figuratively. And the truth is, many companies are not positioned to do “free” shipping all that well.   

Macy’s has signed an agreement that could lead to more downsizing of its valuable real estate portfolio. It also has entered into deals to sell one of its stores in San Francisco, and one in Portland, Oregon.