Legislative, Regulatory & Legal

Finding the right balance between providing consumers targeted and offers while still respecting their privacy is ongoing battle for mobile marketers. Now, the The Federal Trade Commission, the nation’s chief privacy agency, has issued a staff report recommending ways that key players in the rapidly expanding mobile marketplace can better inform consumers about their data practices.

North Bergen, N.J. -- The Vitamin Shoppe said Monday it was notified by the FTC that it has been cleared to acquire Super Supplements, with a targeted closing date of Feb. 15.

In December, the vitamin retailer had announced it would purchase the assets of Super Supplements, a specialty retailer of vitamin, mineral and supplements, for $50 million.  

Super Supplements operates 31 stores in Washington, Oregon and Idaho, and expands Vitamin Shoppe's presence in the Pacific Northwest where it currently operates 17 stores.  

Foothills Ranch, Calif. -- The Wet Seal Inc. on Friday announced that its COO is resigning as the struggling retailer initiates a corporate workforce reduction as part of a broader cost-saving initiative. In other moves, it will shutter two poor-performing Arden B stores.

The struggling chain, which also authorized a $25 million stock buyback program, said president and COO Ken Seipel resigned effective immediately. His position will not be filled. Instead, Seipel's duties will be shared between CEO John Goodman and CFO Steve Benrubi.

Rite Aid on Thursday announced the appointment of Yong Choe as VP federal affairs and public policy.

Choe previously served as director of business outreach and member services for the Republican Study Committee, chaired by Rep. Jim Jordan of Ohio, and worked in various roles in the government affairs division of the National Association of Chain Drug Stores between 2003 and 2010. In his new position, he will report to EVP pharmacy Robert Thompson.

WASHINGTON — U.S. commissaries could face severe cuts if Congress fails reach a budget, leaving many military families without the benefits they rely on to make ends meet, according to the Coalition to Save Our Military Shopping Benefits.

WASHINGTON — The National Retail Federation took aim at President Obama and Congress for not doing enough to improve the jobs situation and boost the economy.

TORONTO — The Home Depot Canada has joined other Canadian retailers in complying with the government's planned phase out of the penny.

However, the retailer noted that many Canadians were unaware of the phase-out, and wanted to ensure its customers that it is doing its best to inform them of the change. As of Feb. 4, the penny will no longer be in circulation. 

WASHINGTON  — The Grocery Manufacturers Association has promoted Sean McBride to EVP communications and membership services, effective Jan. 1. The announcement was made by GMA president and CEO Pamela Bailey. McBride previously served as senior vice president of communications and marketing.