Strategy

Norwalk, Conn. -- WhenToManage announced that its suite of retail operations solutions, including point-of-sale intelligence, labor scheduling and inventory management tools, is now being deployed by Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, an international franchiser, confectionery manufacturer and retail operator.

Andrea Freeman has joined lease-to-own retailer Aaron’s as VP of marketing.

NEWTON, Mass. — Former Reebok and New Balance executive Chris Cohen has been named VP of sales at Topo Athletic.

Founded in December 2012, Topo is a brand focused on designing innovative athletic gear that amplifies the natural mechanics of the human body. In his new role, Cohen will lead North American sales and sales operations for Topo.

Austin, Texas -- Accruent, a leading provider of real estate and facilities software, announced that it has acquired Expesite, Columbus, Ohio, a provides a suite of SaaS solutions highlighted by VisionPM, its design and construction project management product.

Oak Brook, Ill. -- Inland Diversified Real Estate Trust announced Monday the acquisition of a majority interest a portfolio of six grocery/home-improvement-anchored retail properties located in Las Vegas.

The properties were acquired in a joint venture between a subsidiary of Inland Diversified and affiliates of the seller Territory Inc.; the joint venture valued the portfolio at about $296 million.

West Des Moines, Iowa -- Convenience-store operator Kum & Go. opened 43 stores in nine states — more than double its previous record of 21 new stores in 2009 — in 2012, for a total of 430 stores in 11 states. The company plans to continue its growth strategy in the coming years.

“We’re not letting up,” president and CEO Kyle J. Krause said. “Our growth plan for the next five years is just as aggressive.”

NEW YORK — The breakup of Supervalu to private equity firm Cerberus Capital Management could be announced as soon as Thursday when Supervalu shares third-quarter results with analysts, according to a report in the Wall Street Journal published Friday.

Bloomberg also reported that a deal between Cerberus and Supervalu was imminent. According to that Bloomberg report, Cerberus would lead an investment of around $500 million in equity.

ARLINGTON, Va. — The Retail Industry Leaders Association has made changes to its top staff. Former Toys “R” Us and Babies “R” Us executive Garth Gasse has joined the association as director of retail operations, asset protection. Lisa LaBruno has been promoted to SVP for retail operations.