Winter Holidays

The nation’s leading retailers and consumer brands have joined forces to benefit America’s veterans thanks to an innovative program developed by Acosta Sales and Marketing.

Retailers can’t seem to get enough of partnerships these days…be it with hot designers, each other or television shows. Below is a quick recap of three new couplings that have the industry buzzing.

1. Nordstrom and Topshop: Looking to add more fashion sizzle to its offerings, Nordstrom has entered into a joint venture with Topshop, the British fast-fashion giant known for its runway-inspired threads and rock ‘n’ roll attitude.

Walmart and Target were both winners this week as Target announced a deal with Neiman Marcus that makes the distinction between it and Walmart even sharper.

The holiday hype has begun, and Target this week launched one of the first salvos, announcing an innovative partnership with 24 designers and the upscale department store chain Neiman Marcus.

MINNEAPOLIS and DALLAS — Target and Neiman Marcus have joined forces for a unique partnership that will bring a limited-edition holiday collection to both stores beginning Dec. 1. The collection will also be available online at Target.com and NeimanMarcus.com.

New York -- The retail industry is buzzing as a discounter giant and a luxury stalwart form an unprecedented partnership.

Target Corp. and Neiman Marcus Group announced Tuesday they have joined to market a joint holiday 2012 limited collection that ranges from fashion to sporting goods.

More than 50 products will be available at both stores and on their websites starting Dec. 1 until they sell out. The pair feels the partnership makes more sense than people might think.

NEW YORK — Banana Republic is launching a special holiday collection styled by Jacqueline Durran, the Acadmemy Award-nominated costume designer for Anna Karenina.

SAN DIEGO — Genius Brands International has named Sunscape Eyewear as an eyewear licensee for its Baby Genius brand.

The two-year agreement grants Sunscape rights to manufacture and distribute worldwide Baby Genius-themed eyewear for boys and girls ages 0 to 4 years featuring Baby Genius characters. Product categories include sunglasses, eyewear and eyewear accessories such as croakies and cases.

SECAUCUS, N.J. — Eric Bauer, COO of The Children's Place Retail Stores, has left the company effective June 19, the company announced Wednesday. Jane Elfers, president and CEO, will resume oversight of the company's supply chain, store operations, finance, information technology and real estate functions.

Commenting on Bauer's departure, Elfers said, "We thank Eric for his contributions and wish him well in his future endeavors."

New York -- Macy’s Herald Square has extended its shopping hours to make it easier for shoppers while the flagship undergoes its extensive, four-year renovation.

Starting Monday, the store opens at 9 a.m., instead of 10 a.m., Monday through Friday. The Saturday and Sunday schedule remains the same, 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. and 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., respectively.