Events

Some two decades ago Times Square underwent a radical transformation from New York City’s sin center to its version of Disneyland, a magnet of bright lights of wholesome fare that has become a must-stop for all tourists.  

Target is bringing back its retail accelerator program for a second round.   On the heels of the first Target + Techstars retail accelerator, the retailer said it has opened applications for a second round of the program yesterday, inviting retail-specific tech startups worldwide to apply for a chance to relocate to Minneapolis and embed themselves at Target.  

The larger solar rooftop array in the state of Washington is now completed — and it’s on top of an Ikea store.   Ikea has installed a solar array on the top its 244,000-sq.-ft. store currently under construction in Renton, Washington. It is scheduled to open in spring 2017.  

Zappos is hitting the road.   The online footwear retailer famous for its customer service is embarking on a year-long road show to show its gratitude to loyal customers nationwide. The event will feature merchandise, special events and one-of-a-kind experiences.   “At Zappos, we know there are real people behind each online transaction. And we wanted a way to celebrate and thank you for your loyalty — personally,” the company’s website said.  

United Airlines has taken over the windows of one of the nation’s most iconic department stores.   Saks Fifth Avenue on Wednesday unveiled United Airlines Polaris-themed windows at the retailer’s flagship store on Fifth Avenue in New York City.     

Voice-activated technology and connected devices are among the hot tech trends that caught the attention of Target executives at the annual Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.   Target posted the faves of some of its executives on a blog on its website. Here’s a sampling:   

The National Retail Federation is donating $1 (up to $10,000) to RetilROI for every unique session review on the NRF mobile app at the association’s annual “Big Show” in New York City.    RetailROI (the Retail Orphan Initiative) is a charity started by the retail community to help orphans and vulnerable children worldwide through clean water, education and computer learning projects.  

Neiman Marcus Group is not going public anytime soon.    In a filing on Friday, the luxury department store retailer said it would withdraw its initial public offering, having determined "that it is not in its best interests" to proceed with the initial public offering at the current time.