Marketing Tactics

FAIRFIELD, Conn. — Stop & Shop has expanded its A+ School Rewards program and is introducing healthy store tours for kids.

The A+ School Rewards program — which allows customers to designate the points they earn for every dollar spent at Stop & Shop to the school or schools of their choice by registering their Stop & Shop card at StopAndShop.com — increase its contribution to help fund schools with a commitment of $2.5 million.

Bentonville, Ark. -- Wal-Mart Stores will introduce a holiday layaway plan effective Oct. 17 through Dec. 16. The program has a minimum layaway purchase of $50, and requires a 10% down payment. If the program is successful, Wal-Mart said it may extend it throughout the year.

When Wal-Mart phased out its previous layaway offer in September 2006, such programs had fallen out of popularity. But Sears and some merchants brought back layaways as the recession cut into spending.

ORANGE, Calif. — Naturade on Wednesday announced the mass-market introduction of HealthSmart, a doctor-formulated daily protein shake mix that will serve as a comprehensive source of nutrition for active adults. 

Endorsed by baseball hall of famer George Brett, HealthSmart contains 18 g of whey, soy, pea and rice protein isolates, and is fortified with omega 3s and antioxidants for heart health, probiotics and fiber for healthy digestion, and 24 vitamins and minerals.

MOSCOW — Gap Inc. announced that it has opened its first Banana Republic store in Russia through its franchise channel. The company also announced that it will open its first Gap store in Serbia on Friday. This store will represent the company’s 200th franchise store globally.

PHOENIX — PetSmart has the announced the launch of a new collection from Martha Stewart Pets. The collection features innovative, cat-friendly feeding bowls and mats, a well-designed bed and a range of fun, stimulating toys made exclusively for PetSmart stores and PetSmart.com, the company reported.

LEXINGTON, Mass. — Stride Rite Children's Group announced the launch of the Sesame Street by Stride Rite Collection. 

The collection utilizes Stride Rite's branded Scientifically Tested Everyday Proven (STEP) System, which helps customers find age-appropriate footwear for their children.

PLEASANTON, Calif. — Safeway announced that it has raised $10.4 million during a five-week campaign to help the Muscular Dystrophy Association develop treatments and assist people coping with neuromuscular diseases.

Chicago -- General Growth Properties, along with more than 130 of its malls, is encouraging employees and local residents in communities across the country to join them as they take pause to commemorate the 10-year anniversary of September 11.