Strategy

Washington, D.C. -- Retail industry sales (which exclude automobiles, gas stations, and restaurants) will increase 4.1% in 2014, up from the preliminary 3.7% growth seen in 2013, according to the National Retail Federation. The association’s 2014 economic forecast, released Thursday, calls for online sales to grow between 9% and 12%.

A number of factors contributed to NRF’s 2014 economic forecast, including:

Digital coupon marketplace RetailMeNot said that its investments are paying off, following a strong performance in the fourth quarter ended Dec. 31, 2013.

The company reported net revenues for the quarter of $78.5 million, an increase of 55% compared to $50.8 million the prior-year quarter. Organic net revenues, which exclude net revenues from acquired businesses not owned during both comparative periods, increased 50%.  

Belmont, Calif. -- SunEdison, a solar technology manufacturer and provider of solar energy services, announced the completion of a 306 kW DC (direct current) solar system for Whole Foods Market in Brooklyn, N.Y.

SunEdison designed the system using an innovative parking canopy structure that collects rainwater while protecting customers from the elements. The two companies have worked together since 2004 and have jointly deployed 1.5 MW (megawatts) of solar projects.

Sionic Mobile, an m-commerce company that provides mobile gifting, payments and rewards, has added William Mills, CEO of William Mills Agency, to its advisory board of directors. Mills has more than 30 years of financial marketing and branding expertise.

New York — Juice press has announced plans to open five new locations in New York City in the spring and summer of this year. The locations include Chinatown, Tribeca, Midtown, Bridgehampton and the World Financial Center.

The new locations will bring the juice press total to 19.

Atlanta – Supply chain technology provider Manhattan Associates Inc. both signed and expanded implementation agreements with a number of retail clients during fourth quarter 2013. New retail clients signed during the quarter include Arcadia Group, Body Central Stores, Desigual, and Woodcraft Supply.

In addition, Manhattan expanded relationships with existing retail customers such as Aldi, Belk, Cornerstone Brands, Devanlay SA (Lacoste), HEB Grocery, Phillips-Van Heusen, and Toys "R" Us.

As if the retail industry weren’t challenging enough, those operating stores in California are facing a growing number of lawsuits related to an operational consideration known as suitable seating.

Sidney, Neb. - Cabela’s Inc. has named Donna M. Milrod to its board of directors. Milrod has been the chief administrative officer of The Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation (DTCC) since October 2012, with responsibilities for DTCC’s finance, operations, regulatory relations, business continuity, vendor management, and security functions.