Events

WASHINGTON — Ongoing economic challenges and high gas prices won’t put a dent in shoppers spending intentions this Father’s Day, according to new research from the National Retail Federation.

Pittsburgh -- Dick’s Sporting Goods announced Tuesday that it will celebrate the grand opening of its tenth Alabama store, which opened at Jubilee Square in Daphne, Ala.

The chain’s celebration, spanning June 3-5, will feature appearances by college and professional football players and a professional bass angler, as well as a variety of giveaways.
 

ARLINGTON, Va. — The Food Marketing Institute announced that one of its former executives is rejoining the organization, while another will be retiring.

FMI announced last Friday that Patrick Davis has rejoined the organization as its VP state government relations, where he will serve as the principal liaison between FMI and state associations. Prior to rejoining FMI, Davis served as president and founder of Alliance Consulting.

New York City -- From a local cheese shop founded by a career changer, to a specialty supermarket that has expanded to more than 100 locations without sacrificing its commitment to quality and customer service,  the winners of the National Association for the Specialty Food Trade’s (NASFT) Outstanding Specialty Food Retailers of 2011 awards are a diverse group.

St. Paul, Minn. — Paster Enterprises announced that grocer Jim’s Market will open a 24,800-sq.-ft. location at Doddway Center, located in St. Paul. 

The new Jim’s Market will be the fourth location in the St. Paul area, and will take the place of current anchor tenant, R.C. Dick’s Foods. Jim’s Market will make significant renovations to the property during the coming months, including new flooring, an updated front entrance and upgrades to the deli section, frozen foods department and meat counter. 

Loveland, Colo. — McWhinney Enterprises announced that its Marketplace at Centerra power center in Loveland, Colo., will see the addition of Menchie’s and Buffalo Wild Wings this year.

Menchie’s is slated to open a new frozen yogurt shop at the end of May, and Buffalo Wild Wings has begun remodeling a former Black Eye Pea restaurant space with an anticipated opening date of August. 

MINNEAPOLIS — Target announced that it is partnering with soprano singer, Jackie Evancho, for the exclusive, deluxe edition of her first full-length studio album, “Dream With Me.” The deluxe edition, which includes four additional new songs, is currently available for pre-order at Target.com, and will be at Target stores nationwide beginning June 14.

Washington, D.C. — Tanger Factory Outlet Centers Inc. and The Peterson Cos. announced that they have entered into a joint venture agreement to develop, manage and lease Tanger Outlets at National Harbor.