Strategy

Safeway’s recently rolled out Just 4 U loyalty program has chairman and CEO Steve Burd optimistic about the grocer’s prospects for sales growth and market share gains. Read more in this special report.
 

BOISE, Idaho — Albertsons Market is implementing the Recall InfoLink product recall management platform into its pharmacy operation to help it streamline the process of managing recalls, the grocer confirmed on Friday.

Recall InfoLink is a patented, Web-based product recall management system designed to improve recall efficiency by providing standardized messages, automated communications, inventory tracking and reports for compliance efforts.

The nation’s leading arts and crafts retailer is looking for a new top executive after John Menzer resigned to focus on recovery from a stroke.

After Menzer suffered a stroke in April, Michaels created an office of the CEO comprised of Lew Klessel, interim COO and a managing director of Bain Capital, and Chuck Sonsteby, Michael’s chief administrative officer and CFO. The pair will continue to lead the company until Menzer’s successor is hired.

Niles, Ohio -- Kearney, Neb.-based teen retailer The Buckle said it has opened a new location at Eastwood Mall in Niles, Ohio.

The store, the company’s 21st in the state, celebrated its grand opening on July 16.
 

New Orleans -- Covington, La.-based Stirling Properties said that The Fresh Market will open a new store in New Orleans on July 25, marking the grocery retailer’s fourth store in the state.

“We are excited to open our store in New Orleans and to expand our reach in Louisiana,” said Craig Carlock, Fresh Market president and CEO. “We look forward to introducing The Fresh Market’s concept of quality perishables, excellent customer service and a unique atmosphere to an expanded customer base.”    

Springfield, Pa. -- Ulta Beauty said it will open at Springfield (Pa.) Mall in fall 2012.

The 10,328-sq.-ft. store will feature a full-service salon in addition to its customary offerings, and will join anchors Macy’s and Target along with more than 70 specialty retailers at the center.

Springfield Mall is owned by Pennsylvania Real Estate Investment Trust (PREIT) and Simon Property Group.
 

Katy, Texas -- Soma Intimates said it will open a new boutique at LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch, located in Katy, Texas.

The new store is slated to open July 23.

A joint venture of Houston-based Vista Equities Group and Denver-based Amstar Group, LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch is a mixed-use town center development located within the 7,600-acre master planned community of Cinco Ranch.

Phase I of LaCenterra opened March 1, 2007 with approximately 170,000 sq. ft.
 

Lakewood, Colo. -- Outlet and value shopping center Colorado Mills announced the hiring of Deborah Celaya as director of marketing and business development.

In her new role, Celaya will be responsible for strategic marketing, business development, public relations, tenant relations, guest services and tourism.

Celaya most recently held a senior executive position at Race Partners, and has previously served as group VP for General Growth Properties.

ABILENE, Kan. — Alco this week began offering products for sale on its website. The company has launched an e-commerce site that will offer more than 10,000 items. Features of the site include "24/7" online shopping in a secure, searchable web environment, plus delivery to home or place of business.

SAN JOSE, Calif. — Revenue at eBay soared 23% to $3.4 billion during the company's second quarter, thanks to strong performances in its Marketplaces and PayPal businesses.