Retailer Campaigns

MINNEAPOLIS — Target is using the power of social media to help raise money for needy schools. The retailer has launched a campaign via its Facebook page that will enable fans to vote for schools they think deserve a share of Target's $5 million “Give With Target” initiative this fall. The two-part giving campaign provides $2.5 million in grants to in-need schools, as well as up to $2.5 million in Target GiftCards to local schools.

Plano, Texas -- J.C. Penney said Thursday it is once again tweaking its pricing structure, changing course just six months after introducing a three-tiered everyday pricing strategy.

NEW YORK — Actress Kate Hudson will serve as the face of Ann Taylor for the third consecutive season.

"We are thrilled to continue our collaboration with Kate – someone who leads a full life and who captures the spirit of the Ann Taylor woman. She truly represents our continued commitment to celebrating women of substance and style," said Brian Lynch, brand president of the Ann Taylor division of Ann Inc.

BOCA RATON, Fla. — Office Depot has revealed a new back-to-school advertising campaign featuring multi-faceted actor, comedian and host of "America’s Got Talent," Nick Cannon. The campaign showcases Office Depot’s technology and fashion assortment to help students “Be Ncredible” this school year.

BURNABY, B.C. — Best Buy Canada and its subsidiary Future Shop are taking the issue of online competition head on with revised price match and return policies in response to the changing nature of retail in Canada and commitment to customer service.

Lakewood, Colo. -- Outlet and value shopping center Colorado Mills announced the hiring of Deborah Celaya as director of marketing and business development.

In her new role, Celaya will be responsible for strategic marketing, business development, public relations, tenant relations, guest services and tourism.

Celaya most recently held a senior executive position at Race Partners, and has previously served as group VP for General Growth Properties.

MISSISSAUGA, Ontario — Walmart Canada has invited more than 550 kids and 350 parents to participate in the first-ever Great Big Toy Testing Event. Taking place on July 21, the event gives kids and parents the opportunity to interact with more than 100 toys and will help the retailer determine the top toy list for the 2012 holiday season.

MINNEAPOLIS — Fiber One has introduced new snack bars for kids.

Fiber One Chewy bars tout 110 calroies or less and 8 g or less of sugar and do not contain high-fructose corn syrup, Fiber One said. The bars are available in chocolate and strawberry PB&J varieties and are complete with a peanut butter or chocolate-flavored bottom.

By Eileen F. Mitchell, [email protected]

BENTONVILLE, Ark. — Classrooms by Walmart is the name of a new social media initiative the retailer launched Tuesday to simplify back-to-school shopping for millions of moms who view the season as an opportunity for a fresh start.