Strategy

CINCINNATI — Kroger on Tuesday announced the planned retirement of VP and pension investment officer, Rich Manka. His retirement is effective July 15.

"Throughout his career, Rich has been a trusted member of Kroger's leadership team," stated Mike Schlotman, Kroger's CFO. "Pension plan trustees and participants alike have benefited from his vast knowledge and influence on investment strategies and plan designs. We thank Rich for his contributions to our company and industry and wish him the very best."

New York -- Kleinfeld Bridal, the iconic New York bridal retailer and star of the hit reality show “Say Yes to the Dress,” will open a 20,000-sq.-ft. salon in Hudson’s Bay’s flagship location in downtown Toronto in early 2014. The Hudson’s Bay Company has exclusive rights to the brand in Canada.

Minneapolis -- Supervalu announced plans to eliminate about 1,100 positions nationwide, or about 3% of its national workforce. The reductions include both current positions and open jobs that will not be filled.

The news comes less than a week after Supervalu completed the sale of five of its grocery banners, including Albertson’s and Shaws/Star Markets. The company said the sale of the five chains means that the remaining business will need "significantly fewer" corporate and store support roles and functions.

New York -- Walmart plans to test the use of in-store lockers to hold goods ordered on its website until shoppers can pick them up, Reuters reported.

Neil Ashe, president and CEO of the discounter’s global e-commerce division, discussed the test, which will get underway this summer in about 12 locations, On Tuesday at the chain’s e-commerce media day. The event was held at its global e-commerce offices in San Bruno, Calif. Ashe also said that Wal-Mart is set to surpass $9 billion in annual online sales this year.

PANAMA CITY — U.S.-based Vitamin Shoppe has opened its first international franchised Vitamin Shoppe store in Panama City, via franchisee, Reprico. The retailer operates more than 600 retail locations across the United States.

"Our grandparents were pioneers in Pharmacy in Panama," said Marta Ferrer, director retail Stores for Reprico. "We are excited to open a store that can help people feel better and live healthier with the best quality products."

As part of a multi-phase revitalization of The Wilder Cos.’ Wayside property in Burlington, Mass., the company announced that Ethan Allen and Starbucks, along with Potbelly Sandwich Shop, will open in high-visibility locations.

BOSTON — Wayfair.com, an online retailer of home products and furnishings, announced five executive leadership promotions Monday.

Ed Macri was named SVP business intelligence and marketing, and John Mulliken was named SVP strategic initiatives. Additional executive promotions include Dave Raymond to VP operations process improvement, Laura Scott to VP supplier operations and Jeff Steeves to VP arketing.

New York -- Saks Fifth Avenue announced Monday that John Cruz has been named SVP and director of the New York City flagship store, effective April 29.

Cruz currently serves as VP and general manager of the company’s Beverly Hills store. He has worked at the NYC store before – as general manager 2005-2007 and VP and GM 2007-2010.

Cruz replaces Suzanne Stemper-Johnson, who is leaving Saks to pursue other interests.