In-Store Media

Plano, Texas -- The Foundry Big & Tall Supply Co., a new specialty retail concept for big and tall men from J.C. Penney, on Thursday made its retail debut in the Dallas area. Approximately 10 stores are expected to open in the Dallas and Kansas City, Mo., markets by the end of May. The company plans to expand the concept nationwide to 100 stores by 2013, reaching a total of 300 stores over the next five years.

Redmond, Wash. -- Apparel retailer Rue21 has selected PlayNetwork to produce and program in-store music and messaging for 672 Rue21 retail sites in 44 states.

The rue21 stores will be the first to feature PlayNetwork’s new MC550 media player, which which enables businesses to securely deliver immersive entertainment programming featuring music, video, digital signage and branded messaging content.

New York City -- Oakley has opened a store in New York City’s Times Square. The shop features an Oakley Custom bar where customers can create their own renditions of Oakley eyewear and goggles. An on-site etching machine allows customers to personalize their designs with engraving.

FORT WORTH, Texas -- RadioShack announced that it is giving customers the chance to win the new eco-friendly Nissan Leaf simply by trading in their used electronics devices.

From April 17 to 23, customers can bring in eligible working products and accessories into any participating RadioShack store and enter to win a Nissan LEAF, the only 100% electric, zero-emissions vehicle available in the mass market. 

By John Bajorek, [email protected]

Merrimack, N.H. -- Brookstone has launched a new Quick-Response (QR) code program in 30 New York-area Brookstone stores, including locations in Rockefeller Center and JFK airport, to provide shoppers with reviews, videos and product information.

The program allows to shoppers will see black-and-white QR codes located next to products. By snapping an image with their smartphone QR application, consumers can quickly access real-time customer reviews and product videos and even shop a greater selection of similar products at Brookstone’s website.

AUSTIN, Texas -- Whole Foods Market announced that it is on track to stop selling all red-rated swordfish and tuna at its seafood counters nationwide by this Earth Day, April 22.

HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill.  -- Sears is looking to position itself as a beauty leader, by announcing Monday the installment of new cosmetics departments at more than 100 locations and Sears.com.

According to the company, these refreshed beauty departments will feature products from such brands as L'Oreal, Maybelline, Revlon, CoverGirl, Sally Hansen, Essie and Nicole by OPI. Additionally, beauty advisers staffing the departments will offer makeup tips and advice to customers who desire assistance in perfecting their look, Sears reported.