Seasonal

MINNEAPOLIS — Target is once again bringing Black Friday to the summer, this year expanding the sale to two full days, July 20 to 21. Target will also hold its first-ever Summer Cyber Week sale from July 22 to 28, featuring daily deals on Target.com for must-have products such as electronics, apparel, baby gear and more.

Two U.S. toy companies have a shot at exclusive distribution with Meijer this holiday season thanks to a innovative contest announced Monday.

The retailer unveiled details of the Meijer Next Great Toymaker contest designed to give two small U.S. toymakers the chance to have their toy receive exclusive distribution on Meijer.com this holiday season.

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.

WAYNE, N.J. — FAO Schwarz, in honor of its 150th anniversary, has unveiled a walk-around gallery dedicated to Steiff, one of the most renowned European brands, whose signature products have been offered at FAO Schwarz for more than 100 years. "A Gallery of Classic Steiff Collectibles," is displayed prominently throughout the famed flagship location in New York City. The museum quality exhibit will run through early September and can be viewed online at FAO.com.

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.

After a weaker-than-expected showing in June, Target needs a solid performance in July to deliver on its second quarter sales and profit expectations.

June same-store sales increased a modest 2.1%, well below a 4.4% increase in May, but the deceleration didn’t cause the company to adjust its second quarter guidance. The company expects second quarter earnings adjusted to exclude expenses related to its entry in Canada to range from $1.04 to $1.14 and earnings that include the Canadian costs to range from 94 centers to $1.04.

Philadelphia -- Destination Maternity said its third-quarter revenue fell 5.3% to $138.8 million. Wall Street had expected $146.4 million. The retailer cut its third-quarter earnings forecast, citing weaker-than-expected sales.

Same-store sales fell 2.4%.
 

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.