Marketing Tactics

New York -- Importers and manufacturers who sell to America's major retailers are split as to whether they believe they will see growth and / or reductions in sales for the spring season, according to Capital Business Credit, a non-bank lender that services the retail sector.

OAK BROOK, Ill. — Ace Hardware has launched a new marketing campaign, Meet the Aces, designed to promote the hardware co-op/retailer’s personal service. 

The new campaign also reintroduces, for the first time in more than 15 years, the words of Ace’s iconic jingle, “Ace is the place with the helpful hardware man,” but changed slightly (from “man” to “folks”) to reflect all Ace associates.

Profits outpaced sales growth at General Mills during the third quarter ended February 24 and the company vowed to launch a promising slate of new products and increase store support during the current quarter.

New York — The Deloitte Consumer Spending Index remained steady in February primarily as a decline in initial unemployment claims and a rise in real average hourly earnings offset negative forces.

CAMP HILL, Pa. — Rite Aid has expanded its Easter and spring supplies at its stores in anticipation of the holiday and season, the retail pharmacy chain said Monday.

The 4,623-store chain said items at its stores included chocolate bunnies, marshmallow Peeps, SweeTarts, Ducks & Bunnies, Cadbury Eggs and other candy brands, as well as baskets and other accessories.

In addition, the company is selling such gardening supplies as planters, figurines, bird feeders, wind chimes and outdoor fountains and lighting, including solar-powered devices.

NEW YORK — Online retailer NoMoreRack has announced its plans to expand their business and online presence. NoMoreRack has received $12 million in new capital. They plan to use this investment money to increase their workforce and expand into foreign markets.

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Meijer has expanded its program that supports Michigan small businesses to feature 55 new Michigan-made grocery products in all its stores statewide, Meijer co-chairman Doug Meijer announced Tuesday.

HUDSON, Ohio — Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores announced that in 2012 the company’s year-end corporate giving total surpassed $5 million for the first time in the retailer’s history.

ST. PAUL, Minn. — 3M has introduced a new line of Post-It brand products designed for today's mobile workers and busy families.

The new Post-it Mobile Collection features a variety of compact and durable products specially designed to stick, insert and clip to the everyday items you carry. The Attach and Go Products work together, allowing you to customize a portable organization system that helps you Do More, Your Way.

ROCKFORD, Mich. — Wolverine Brand, the makers of authentic outdoor and work boots, shoes and apparel, is supporting The Wolverine Foundation, a non-profit organization comprised of wildlife scientists with a common interest in the wolverine. The brand's funding is vital to The Wolverine Foundation and supports continued research projects and awareness programs.