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Forget about online. The biggest threat to Macy’s and other department store retailers is coming from bricks-and-mortar.   Speaking at a recent conference in New York City, Macy's CFO Karen Hoguet said off-price retailers have proven a bigger long-term challenge to the company than the Internet, CNBC reported.

A fashion blog is reporting that Walmart will acquire an online fashion brand known for its eclectic and quirky styles.   Walmart’s Jet.com division will acquire Modcloth, reported CNBC, which cited the Jezebel fashion blog. The report comes on the heels of Walmart’s acquisition in February of online outdoor apparel brand Moosejaw.    

Starting soon, select J.C. Penney will be offering bathroom remodeling services.  

The Michaels Companies is making a move to further inspire its hobbyists online.    A new partnership with online destination Craftsy is giving Michaels’ shoppers access to on-demand classes. Specifically, Michaels will leverage Craftsy's growing video library of more than 1,300 on-demand lessons from expert instructors sharing their crafting experiences.  

CSA’s annual award program honors five growing brands

Innovation in retail means breaking down barriers, navigating a fiercely competitive marketplace and making connections with increasingly demanding customers. In this section, Chain Store Age profiles five retailers that are succeeding in both. They are the winners of CSA’s Breakout Retailers Awards.

In the wake of a disappointing quarter, Target Corp. is making long-term investments in its future.   The discounter plans to spend $7 billion in cash during the next three years as it lowers its prices and invests in its stores, with renovations planned for some 600 locations, reported CNBC.   "We can't capture that market share if we're presenting an old, tired store," Target CEO Brian Cornell said.  

As teen retailers deal with competition from online as well as off-price and fast-fashion brands, one teen retailer is flourishing — with aggressive store expansion plans.