Human Resources

Chillicothe, Ohio -- Petland has appointed former Walmart exec Tony Samples as VP of corporate stores. Samples will lead Petland's retail store division and oversee the company's merchandising and marketing efforts.  

"Tony brings extensive retail experience to Petland at a time when Petland is expanding its retail footprint," said Petland president and CEO Joe Watson.

Publix continues to be a blockbuster in its industry, as the grocery chain posted a 7.4% increase in profits in the fourth quarter.

The Florida-based retailer reported a profit of $453.3 million in the fourth quarter, compared to $422 million in 2013. Earnings per share for the fourth quarter increased to $0.58 for 2014, up from $0.54 per share in 2013. Publix reported net sales of $7.9 billion; same store sales increased 6.4%.

Roanoke, Va. -- Advance Auto Parts announced that Todd Greener has been appointed senior VP, supply chain.

Denver -- The Running Specialty Group (RSG), a division of The Finish Line, has expanded its presence in the New York City area with the addition of JackRabbit Sports, consisting of four locations. Additionally, JackRabbit owner and founder, Lee Silverman, will join RSG’s leadership team in Denver as senior VP of brand strategy.

Publix continues to be a blockbuster in its industry, as the grocery chain posted a 7.4% increase in profits in the fourth quarter.

The Florida-based retailer reported a profit of $453.3 million in the fourth quarter, compared to $422 million in 2013. Earnings per share for the fourth quarter increased to $0.58 for 2014, up from $0.54 per share in 2013. Publix reported net sales of $7.9 billion; same store sales increased 6.4%.

San Francisco  -- Gap Inc. is looking to add a little pink magic to its product design — and is bringing back a company veteran to do it. The retailer has named Wendi Goldman, creator of Victoria’s Secret “Pink” marketing/merchandising campaign, as executive VP of product design and development, effective March 16.

Old Navy navigated a big wave of sales during the holidays as Gap Inc. continued to try to revive its namesake Gap brand, with lackluster results.

The apparel retailing company reported that for the fourth quarter, same-store sales rose 11% and total sales rose 12% at Old Navy; company wide at Gap Inc, same store sales rose only 2%.

Los Angeles -- Commercial builder Bernards has appointed industry veteran Joseph Didone to the position of VP. In his role, Didone will provide executive-level oversight for complex Bernards projects.
 
Didone is a 27-year veteran of the construction industry. During his career, he has managed a number of high-profile construction projects, including the renovation of the Hollywood Bowl Museum.