Strategy

By Gary Glick, partner, Cox, Castle & Nicholson LLP

CITY OF COMMERCE, Calif. — 99 Cents Only Stores reported that net sales for the third quarter increased $35.6 million, or 8.8%, to $439.5 million for the third quarter of fiscal 2013 compared to $403.9 million for the third quarter of fiscal 2012. Same-store sales increased 4.3%.  

Indianapolis -- H.H. Gregg announced that it has launched a “Price Match Guarantee” to ensure that its customers receive the lowest advertised prices on merchandise both in stores and online, for up to 30 days after the date of purchase.

WOONSOCKET, R.I. — CVS Caremark executives expressed optimism Wednesday morning as the company posted record fourth-quarter results, raised its 2013 guidance and continues to work to leverage its distinctive business model to help people on their path to better health amid a rapidly changing healthcare environment.

Business-to-consumer e-commerce sales in 2012 grew 21.1% to top $1 trillion for the first time, according to new global estimates by research firm, eMarketer. 

The firm predicts that 2013 will be even better, with e-commerce sales up 18.3% to $1.298 trillion worldwide, on the strength of the Asia-Pacific market. 

Atlanta -- The Home Depot plans to hire more than 80,000 temporary workers to help customers this spring, some 10,000 more than it hired last year.
   
The move comes as the housing rebound spurs spending on remodeling and landscaping.
 

Washington -- President Obama has selected Sally Jewell, president and CEO of Recreational Equipment Inc., to lead the Interior Department, White House officials said Wednesday.

Jewell, a former banker and Mobile Oil Corp. executive, is an outdoors enthusiast and conservation advocate. She joined the board of REI in 1996, and was appointed COO in 2000. In 2005, she was named CEO. The outdoor retailer expanded significantly under her leadership, and now generates some $2 billion in annual revenues.

BENTONVILLE, Ark. — Walmart and Mother Nature Network are inviting people to use Twitter to express their green ideas for the chance to win a $100 Walmart gift card.