Marketing Tactics

BENTONVILLE, Ark. — Walmart is giving customers the chance to preview its Black Friday specials early. The company announced that customers can sign up at Walmart.com or Facebook.com/Walmart to receive an early preview of its specials on the widest assortment of top electronics, toys, apparel and more. 

Bentonville, Ark. -- Wal-Mart Stores said Wednesday it is offering an early previous of its Black Friday deals.

The retailer will begin previewing special deals on Wednesday, and will hold an early holiday sale beginning Nov. 5.

The Black Friday preview for specials in electronics, toys and apparel will be available to shoppers who sign up at Walmart.com or the store's Facebook page, according to the company.

Pittsburgh -- American Eagle Outfitters reported Wednesday that sales for the quarter ended Oct. 29 rose 11% to $832 million, compared with $752 million in the year-ago period.

Same-store sales increased 5% for the quarter, following a 1% rise for the same period last year.

By banner, American Eagle posted a 5% comp increase and Aerie comps surged 8%.

BENTONVILLE, Ark. — Sam's Club announced that it is making it easier for consumers to shop this holiday season with the launch of its holiday shopping site, SamsClub.com/gifts and an enhanced mobile app that together streamline on-the-go and at-home shopping.

MIRAMAR, Fla. — Russell Hobbs, the licensee of the Farberware brand, announced that it has launched an exclusive line of small kitchen appliances at Walmart.

Farberware's line of products includes a chic, programmable coffee and tea maker, a dual-function food processor and a powerhouse 10-speed blender. All have stainless steel finishes and unparalleled craftsmanship perfect for the home chef that is interested in high-quality, great-looking appliances at an affordable price, according the company. All items are priced at $59.88 each.

Atlanta -- Jones Lang LaSalle announced Tuesday that it has launched a comprehensive digital media program across its 98 million-sq.-ft. nationwide retail portfolio.

The firm is rolling out The Scoop customer loyalty program, the My Style social media program and new center-specific mobile apps to deliver up-to-the-minute information on fashion trends, retailer promotions and events.

Has anyone else noticed that the Christmas holiday “season” starts earlier and earlier each year? This year, Walmart had their Christmas displays out by mid-September and many retailers were touting holiday sales in October! I still remember when Black Friday was the “official” kick-off to the holiday shopping season and it was surprising to see Christmas decorations up in mid-November. I keep wondering what the real-world implications of this calendar shift might mean – if anything – for retailers’ overall holiday and end-of-year sales?

New York City -- New York & Co. said Tuesday it has launched its debut Facebook sweepstakes campaign, which it will promote through multiple social media outlets.

The promotion, which runs Nov. 1 – Nov. 16, utilizes email, in-store signage, Facebook and Twitter, and awards a sweepstakes winner a trip for two to New York City, as well as provides gift cards to runners up.