Strategy

Plano, Texas -- J.C. Penney reported a better-than-expected increase in third-quarter profit Friday, crediting controlled costs and positive response to its newest exclusive brands, which include Liz Claiborne and MNG by Mango, and its Sephora in-store cosmetic boutiques.

The chain posted a profit of $44 million in the period ended Oct. 30, compared with $27 million a year ago. Total sales increased 0.2% to $4.19 billion, up from $4.18 billion in the third quarter last year. Same-store sales rose 1.9%.

Miramar Beach, Fla. -- New Balance announced that it opened its first factory store in Northwest Florida at Silver Sands Factory Stores on Thursday.

The 4,825-sq.-ft. store offers New Balance shoes and apparel for women, men and children. New Balance Factory Store is located near Swarovski at the east part of the center.

“We chose Silver Sands because we wanted to open in a high-performing center that has a great portfolio of brands,” said Stephen Dix, general manager of retail operations for New Balance.

Northbrook, Ill. -- Pine Tree Commercial Realty announced it has acquired Loch Leven Plaza in the Orlando, Fla. suburbs, expanding Pine Tree’s portfolio to include the state of Florida.

The company purchased the Publix-anchored shopping center in Mt. Dora, Fla., on Nov. 5. Pine Tree will be handling the property management and leasing for the center.

Publix occupies 54,340 sq. ft. at the new plaza and opened last May. The center, which was completed in March, is 99% leased.

Santa Barbara, Calif. -- Investec announced it has raised $130 million for acquisition of grocery- and drug-anchored centers located in the coastal region of California.

Portland, Texas  -- Hibbit Sports has opened a 4,000-sq.-ft. store at Northshore Plaza, in Portland, Texas.

The shopping center is owned by New York City-based Centro Properties Group.

New York City -- A report released Thursday said that Barnes & Noble has launched a test of store-in-store toy boutiques at a few select locations, in order to boost sales and fill shelf space.

According to a report by Reuters, the retailer has opened five 3,000-sq.-ft. play areas over the last week, featuring educational toys and games.