Cross-Merchandising

Pinterest is rolling out its “Buyable Pins” feature, which allow consumers to purchase items directly from Pinterest visual displays, to users of its iPhone and iPad apps. This gives retailers a new avenue to engage digital consumers, while e-commerce platforms like Amazon, eBay, Google and even Wal-Mart Marketplace have a new competitor.

Middleton, Wis. - American Girl is expanding south of the boarder.

The brand will make its debut in Mexico, opening in-store boutiques in department store El Palacio de Hierro’s locations in Interlomas and Perisur. The in-store shops, ranging in size from 1,500 sq. ft. to 2,000 sq. ft., open July 4.

Mexico marks the second international retail presence for American Girl, which opened its first Canadian store in October 2013.

New York – Aeropostale Inc. is expanding in Asia through new licensing agreements in India and Indonesia. The company plans to open stores in India through a licensing agreement with Arvind Lifestyle Brands Ltd., and in Indonesia through a licensing agreement with PT Mitra Adiperkasa TBK (MAP).

PetSmart is launching a promotion to bring panting pups and their owners into the store for heat relief this summer.

Minneapolis – Best Buy is putting a spotlight on the way technology is impacting home appliances.

The retailer is partnering with Samsung on a new in-store concept, “Samsung Open House,” a 20-sq.-ft. area inside Best Buy stores that feature the largest dedicated in-store branded display of Samsung appliances anywhere.

Scottsdale, Ariz. - Cold Stone Creamery is partnering with the Discovery Channel to promote its “Shark Week 2015” TV programming event through July 14. As part of the promotion, Cold Stone is holding a social media contest where one winner will win a trip for four to the Atlantis Paradise Island Resort in the Bahamas.

In the midst of its strongest growth in years, Meijer and its produce partners are touting the company’s $100 million locally grown commitment.

As retailers continue to benefit from surging sales in the candy aisle, Ikea is expanding its grocery offerings with European sweets.

The retailer announced it is venturing into the candy business by bringing over treats from Europe and installing in-store candy shops, which will offer Lördagsgodis "pick and mix sweets" at select stores across the country.

Bradenton, Fla. - Champs Sports is collaborating with Under Armour on an in-store concept.

Champs will debut The Armoury at its store in The Mall in Columbia in Columbia, Maryland.

Champs Sports is elevating its value proposition for shoppers by launching an Under Armour store-within-a-store.

The ARMOURY at Champs Sports will serve as a destination for legions of Under Armour brand enthusiasts, featuring all of Under Armour's best and most innovative footwear, apparel, and accessories.