Strategy

Atlanta -- Global Franchise Group announced Tuesday a master franchise agreement with Western Brands PVT for the opening of the first Marble Slab Creamery locations in the country of Pakistan.

The deal calls for the development of 10 Marble Slab Creamery stores in Pakistan over a 10-year period, with the 5,000 sq. ft. flagship store opening up in the major city of Lahore, Pakistan.

Marble Slab Creamery is managed by GFG Management, a subsidiary of Global Franchise Group.

SAN FRANCISCO — Williams-Sonoma reported that fourth-quarter EPS grew 15% to $1.34 and that quarterly revenue grew to $1.406 billion versus $1.268 billion in 2011 with comparable brand revenue growth of 4%.

Fiscal 2012 EPS grew 14% to $2.54. Net revenues for the year grew to $4.043 billion versus $3.721 billion in FY 11 with comparable brand revenue growth of 6.1%.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Anthea Jones has assumed the role of president at Bi-Lo. He will continue to serve as SVP operations. 

Jones comes to the position from the Bi-Lo side of the recent merger between regional supermarkets Bi-Lo and Winn-Dixie. He signed on with Bi-Lo in 1999 after 17 years at Food Lion. He also is the immediate past board chairman for the Global Market Development Center. 

Jones succeeds Michael Byars in the position. Randall Onstead continues as president and CEO of the combined company, Bi-Lo Holdings.

Boca Raton, Fla. -- Real estate development firm Fimiani Development said that it has named Lindsey Alexander and Meredith Housman as VPs of leasing for the company.
 
Alexander and Housman will work with Simon Property Company, Kite Realty Group, Kimco and Office Depot and will focus on landlord representation as well as tenant representation.

Alexander was previously with Woolbright Development and Housman with Equity One.

ST. PAUL, Minn. — 3M has introduced a new line of Post-It brand products designed for today's mobile workers and busy families.

The new Post-it Mobile Collection features a variety of compact and durable products specially designed to stick, insert and clip to the everyday items you carry. The Attach and Go Products work together, allowing you to customize a portable organization system that helps you Do More, Your Way.

McLean, Va. -- Recreational Equipment said that it will open a new REI store in the Tysons area of McLean, Va.

The 32,800-sq.-ft., two-story store is slated to open in August 2013.

“Tysons is the ultimate shopping hub in Northern Virginia,” said Ray Dinterman, REI retail director for the Mid-Atlantic district. “Our new store will join five other local REI stores and help us better outfit nearly 200,000 active members who paddle the Potomac and hike the Appalachian Trail."

NEW YORK — Online retailer NoMoreRack has announced its plans to expand their business and online presence. NoMoreRack has received $12 million in new capital. They plan to use this investment money to increase their workforce and expand into foreign markets.

Grand Rapids, Mich. — Meijer has expanded its program that supports Michigan small businesses to feature 55 new Michigan-made grocery products in all its stores statewide, Meijer co-chairman Doug Meijer announced Tuesday.