Retailer Campaigns

CINCINNATI — Ahead of Earth Day, a number of retailers have been touting their sustainable efforts. The latest example is Kroger, which has released a video highlighting some of its accomplishments and showcasing some of its future goals.

The video features both store associates and customers who speak about how much Kroger has already done--from reducing waste and plastic bag use--and what the company can do more of--from making it easier to find organic products to donating more fresh produce to charity.

AUSTIN — While 46% of consumers are more inclined to purchase a product if it is eco-friendly, nearly 60% are unwilling to pay more money for that eco-friendly product or service, according to new research.

BENTONVILLE, Ark. — Grilling is the theme of Sam's Club's annual "Spring Taste of Sam's Club" event, and the retailer is inviting members and non-members to sample some unexpected grilling options at its free event taking place Friday, April 27 to Sunday, April 29 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Denver -- Research results released Tuesday by The Integer Group and M/A/R/C Research found that, despite a shopping list being a tool to stay on budget and eliminate unnecessary purchases, nine out of 10 shoppers still buy items not on their list.

The shopper behavior study, called The Checkout, showed that 66% of those who purchase off-list items were motivated by a sale or promotion. Thirty percent said they found a coupon, and 23% wanted to pamper themselves.

Of the common areas hosted by a mall, the busiest has become the virtual one. Increasingly, consumers frequent mall websites to check out promotions at their favorite retailers. Website views are nothing new — but the escalation in mobile connectivity presents a revolutionary opportunity for retailers.

By Elizabeth Cogswell Baskin

Editor’s note: Launched in March 2010, Pinterest now ranks as the third most-visited social-networking site in the United States, according to a recent report by Experian Marketing Services. Pinterest, which lets its users “pin” photos and information onto virtual boards, ranks behind only Facebook and Twitter in terms of total visitors, according to the report. It also skews heavily female — about 60% of users are women.

JAKKS Pacific Inc., appointed Carmine Russo president of its international division with responsibility for growing international sales and overseeing marketing, advertising, promotions and distribution operations across all product divisions.
 

Fort Worth, Texas -- Trademark Property said Wednesday it has purchased two retail centers located directly across from La Palmera mall in Corpus Christi, Texas.

The 15.5-acre Staples Center, built in the 1980s, and the 3.8-acre Mt. Vernon Center, built in the 1940s, will undergo rebranding along with a major redesign and renovation, scheduled to begin late 2012 with completion slated for 2013.

The redeveloped center, to be named The Shops at La Palmera, will total approximately 200,000 sq. ft.