Sustainability

LOS ANGELES — Looking to offer a greener option for users of Styrofoam and noncompostable insulated cups, Repurpose Compostables has launched a new insulated hot cup that is 100% compostable.

One Cup requires no sleeve, uses 65% less carbon dioxide than a traditional cup and can be composted in 90 days, the company said. The insulated cups also feature Ingeo-based lining, which eliminates the need for "double cupping," to assure the beverage, and not the drinker's hands, stay hot.

LOS ANGELES - The makers of the Green Garmento laundry bag announced they have teamed up with Mike "The Situation" Sorrentino of "Jersey Shore" fame to promote their eco-friendly all-in-one reusable drycleaning and laundry bag. GTL now also means "Green The Laundry."

According to the company, the Green Garmento can be used as a hamper forsoiled clothes, a duffel bag for carrying the clothes to the laundry or drycleaner and a hanging garment bag to protect cleaned clothes.

Elizabeth, N.J. -- Columbus, Ohio-based Glimcher Realty Trust has announced plans for the largest single-roof top solar system in North America to be built on the roof of Jersey Gardens in Elizabeth, N.J.

ATLANTA — Newell Rubbermaid, whose portfolio includes the hair accessories brand Goody, has announced that its president and CEO, Mark Ketchum, will retire later this year.

An executive recruiting firm has been retained to conduct an outside search for Ketchum's replacement and also assist with the assessment of internal candidates, the company stated. To help ensure a smooth and transition, Ketchum plans to remain on the company¹s board through the spring of 2012.

Minneapolis -- Two leaders of Target have been appointed to the retailer's executive committee.

Tina Schiel, senior VP enterprise strategy and new business development, was promoted to executive VP stores and will join the executive committee, while Laysha Ward, who will retain her position as Target's community relations president and Target Foundation president, also will join the executive committee.

The National Retail Federation’s Annual Convention & Expo kicked off  at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center on Sunday, Jan. 9, with a lineup of power speakers and plenty of buzz. It is the 100th anniversary of  annual event, which attracts retailers from around the world.

This year, the four-day NRF show featured more than 600 exhibiting companies, new retail technology pavilions, and presentations from a stellar line-up of top-tier retailers. Total attendance was estimated at more than 18,500, with representatives from 70 countries.

EL SEGUNDO, Calif. - Mattel announced that it has appointed Bryan Stockton, Mattel’s president of international, to the new position of chief operating officer, effective immediately. Stockton will report to Robert Eckert, chairman and chief executive officer of Mattel, as will Mattel’s finance, legal and human resources functions.

The company also announced that Neil Friedman, president of Mattel brands, will be leaving the company in March 2011.

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Meijer last week announced its donation of 35 reconditioned semi-tractors to local food banks, academic organizations and law enforcement throughout the Midwest.

The donation is part of the chain's ongoing commitment to support the communities it serves, the company said.

Tempe, Ariz. -- Vestar’s Tempe Marketplace open-air shopping center, located in Tempe, Ariz., was recognized by the International Council of Shopping Centers with a Silver Sustainability Award in ICSC’s annual U.S. Design and Development Awards.

Designed to recognize outstanding projects for excellence in the creation of new retail projects, and in the expansion or redevelopment of existing projects, Tempe Marketplace was chosen for its sustainability, innovative design and development of the property since its build out.

Stratham, N.H. -- A Tuesday report by the Wall Street Journal said that outdoor gear retailer Timberland will expand its presence in mainland China from 110 stores currently to double that number.

According to the company’s president and CEO, Jeffrey Swartz, who was interviewed by WSJ, the retailer sees the potential to more than double its doors in the next three years.

Swartz said one way his company can connect with Chinese consumers is by highlighting its environmental credentials.