Retail

Los Angeles — Hong Kong is by far the world’s most expensive city for global retailers. Even so, prime rents in major global markets such as New York, Paris and London continue to break records, according to new research from global property advisor CBRE Group.

Seattle – Holiday markdowns and costs associated with growing its Nordstrom Rack outlet brand and planned entry into Canada had a negative impact on net earnings at Nordstrom Inc. during fourth quarter 2013. Fourth quarter net earnings slipped 6% compared to the same quarter the prior year, to $268 million from $284 million.

Net earnings for the full fiscal year remained almost flat, slightly rising to $735 million from $734 million. Both earnings figures fell short of Wall Street expectations.

Banana Republic will unveil an omnichannel marketing campaign called “True Outfitters” in March 2014.

Styled by Jessica Diehl and shot by Mikael Jansson, the campaign was developed with Laird+Partners, Banana Republic's advertising agency. The campaign will appear in March and April publications, supplemented by outdoor, online and direct mail. Digital portions include a dedicated website and a special YouTube event on March 2.

Indianapolis — Four new retailers have leased space at Brea Mall in Brea, California, according to Simon Property Group, the mall’s owner. Starbucks Coffee Company, Kiehl’s Since 1851, Kelley’s Kookies and Shoe Palace plan to open their doors this spring and summer.

Starbucks will debut this spring as a standalone kiosk with tables and chairs for café-style seating.

San Francisco -- Banana Republic is releasing an omni-channel spring 2014 marketing campaign called “True Outfitters” in March 2014. Styled by Jessica Diehl and shot by Mikael Jansson, the campaign was developed with Laird+Partners, Banana Republic's advertising agency.

The campaign will appear in March and April publications, supplemented by outdoor, online and direct mail. Digital portions include a dedicated website and a special YouTube event on March 2.

By Hedgie Bartol, Business Development Manager Retail, Axis Communications

Hoffman Estates, Calif. - Sears Hometown and Outlet Stores, Inc. has opened a new Sears Home Appliance Showroom store in Vallejo, Calif. The new store is hosting its grand opening celebration Feb. 28-March 1, and was the 20th Sears Home Appliance Showroom Store to open in 2013.

Seattle – Amazom.com is reportedly seeking to strike deals with about 10 major retailers, including Abercrombie & Fitch, Neiman Marcus, J. Crew, Ralph Lauren, and Lord & Taylor, to sell their goods via listings on its e-commerce site.