Sustainability

First it was sustainability, then came hunger and the affordability of quality food, women’s economic empowerment and now support of U.S. manufacturing. Walmart contends it has a responsibility to lead in these areas and others, but whether it is truly doing so is the subject of some debate.

Indianapolis — Simon Property Group has received recognition for its sustainable efforts.

First, SPG has been named to the 2013 CDP Global 500 Climate Disclosure Leadership Index (CDLI). The annual index highlights FTSE Global 500 companies that demonstrate leadership through disclosure of information regarding climate change and score within the top 10% of the five hundred companies assessed. This is SPG’s fifth CDLI award and its third due to top score on disclosure of green house gas emissions and energy use.

Ontario, Canada -- Staples Canada announced its sustainability achievements for the second quarter of 2013, including a 9% drop in energy consumption (over the year-ago period). The retailer continues to focus on its long-term commitment to growing the business in a sustainable manner, and reducing its impact on the environment.

Rock Hill, S.C. — Sam’s Club will open its new Rock Hill, S.C., club on Sep. 26. The grand opening will feature Greg Olsen, tight end for the Carolina Panthers, graffiti artist Reid Bramhall, face painting by Tony the Tiger and a book signing by TV chef and restaurateur Jami Deen.

Big Lots has joined the National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD) as full board members. 

NACD full board member companies range in size from large-cap to small-cap companies. Through their membership, these companies become part of a diverse director community and have the opportunity to share and gain insights about current and emerging issues and to take part in NACD's director education programs.

Columbus, Ohio – Big Lots, Inc. has joined the National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD) as full board members.

"We are honored to join the distinguished and diverse group of directors who comprise NACD's full board members," said Philip E. Mallott, chairman of the board at Big Lots. "The resources, insights, and connections NACD offers will be valuable assets to our company as we continue to strengthen our corporate governance practices."

East Pennsboro Township, Pa. – Rite Aid has reportedly been ordered to pay $12.3 million in a civil lawsuit accusing the retailer of illegally dumping hazardous waste from more than 600 stores in California. According to the Los Angeles Times, San Joaquin County Superior Court Judge Linda L. Lofthus handed down the ruling in a suit brought against Rite Aid by the district attorneys of San Joaquin, Los Angeles and Riverside counties.

Harker Heights, Texas — Sam’s Club will open its new Harker Heights, Texas location on Sept. 26 at 8 a.m. The grand opening will feature presentations by the mayor of Harker Heights and the president of the chamber of commerce president. Retired NFL player Ed “Too Tall” Jones will make an appearance from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

The new 136,000-sq.-ft. warehouse will bring 175 jobs to the community and feature a fresh bakery, a tire and battery center, a café and a fueling station.