Corporate Governance

McAlister’s Deli to open new stores in Georgia, Florida
Alpharetta, Ga. - McAlister's Deli has signed three development agreements with new and existing franchisees to open restaurants in Southern Georgia and North, Central and Southwest Florida.

Existing franchisee DMAC 81 LLC, based in Summerville, South Carolina, plans to open several new restaurants between southern Georgia and northern Florida.
Braving the Currency Storm: What U.S. Brands Can Do
By Brian Ehrig

The U.S. dollar has risen by more than 20% against the other major currencies over the last year, buoyed by a respectable if not torrid economic recovery and sinking oil prices, among other factors. That could be a breath of fresh air for U.S. shoppers with a taste for imported goods. For global mega-brands like PVH, Microsoft and Coach, however, the implications are closer to a gathering storm.

F.A.O. Schwarz to close Fifth Avenue store amid rising rents

New York -- Surging rents in Manhattan have claimed another victim, and this time it's one of the city's most iconic retail establishments. F.A.O. Schwarz will close its legendary toy store on Fifth Avenue this summer, citing the high and rising costs of operating a store on one of the city's most pricey blocks of real estate. Toys "R" Us, which acquired F.A.O. Schwarz in 2009, said it will close the 45,000-sq.-ft.
Retail ‘Springs’ eternal at Downtown Disney

The Walt Disney World Resort is doubling the size of its retail operation and adding some hot new tenants as part of a major expansion and rebranding of the shopping, dining and entertainment area known as Downtown Disney.

Disney Springs is the new name Walt Disney World Resorts is going with for the expanding waterfront retail operation in the Orlando suburb of Lake Buena Vista. Fashion retailers Zara, Tommy Bahama, Lilly Pulitzer, UNIQLO and PANDORA are the latest to sign on as Downtown Disney continues its expansion into Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort.
New York City's F.A.O. Schwarz to close

Surging rents in Manhattan have claimed another victim, and this time it's one of the city's most iconic retail establishments.
Ascena goes shopping for career women

Ascena Retail Group may be looking to attract younger, more career-oriented shoppers with its $2.15 buyout of rival Ann Inc.
RH to build largest U.S. store in Las Vegas

The retailer formerly known as Restoration Hardware has hired a chief real estate officer to lead the latest installment of its evolution into a "design gallery": a 70,000-square-foot store in Las Vegas.
Jo-Ann Fabrics crafts a new kids' collection

Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores is teaming up with an A-list celebrity mom on a new line of craft kids for children.

The retailer has nabbed an exclusive partnership with Jennifer Garner on a new line of creative kits and projects for active kids. We Made It by Jennifer Garner will be available exclusively at Jo-Ann stores and Joann.com beginning in June.
Walgreens' Red Nose Day campaign a hit with shoppers

A British charity has brought its highly successful fundraising event across the pond, with a lot of help from Walgreens.
Accenture acquisition to expand digital consulting capabilities

Retailers are poised to benefit from a new deal between Accenture and Javelin Group, a UK-based retail strategy consulting and digital transformation services provider.

The acquisition will expand the capabilities of Accenture Strategy to help the world’s leading retailers and consumer brands accelerate their digital transformation. Terms of the acquisition were not disclosed, and completion of the acquisition is subject to regulatory approval and other customary closing conditions.
Big Lots to launch AKC pets line

Big Lots is looking to get a piece of the $1 billion pet products pie with a new and exclusive partnership with the American Kennel Club.

The retailer has announced that it plans to launch AKC®Select, an exclusive line of pet products featuring the American Kennel Club brand. This new premium line of merchandise, along with Big Lots' current pet product offerings, will provide dog owners with an exceptional value, the company said.
Report: Google to roll out 'Buy' buttons

Google Inc. is reportedly planning to start providing users with “Buy” buttons in their search results within the next few weeks.