Retail

New York City -- Borders Group said objections from creditors are irrelevant because the company’s liquidation means it will not carry on any contracts with business partners, Bloomberg reported.

Borders is due to seek court approval Thursday to liquidate its 399 remaining stores. The approximate 99 objections from creditors should be overruled, the company said in court papers, as it does not plan to keep or transfer any contracts or leases, the report said.
 

FRAMINGHAM, Mass. — Staples has announced the promotion of Christine Putur to CIO. In her new role, Putur will have global responsibility for information technology strategy and execution. Putur will report to John Mahoney, Staples vice chairman and CFO.

"Chris has demonstrated great leadership at Staples," said Mahoney. "She has deep knowledge of our customers and company with proven ability to align information systems to business goals. Chris will drive the IT organization as an important part of our success in the years to come."

By Karen VanBrunt, kvanbrunt@agilenceinc.com

PORT WASHINGTON — Consumer electronics are growing increasingly popular with children, as indicated by NPD's latest survey, which revealed that in the past year 78% of portable video game systems purchased, and 56% of portable digital media players (PDMP) purchased were given to the child. 

For households with kids ages 4 to 14, newer devices such as e-readers and media tablets were acquired at single-digit rates (8% and 5%, respectively) in the past year, slowly driving up the number of homes where kids have access to these devices. 

Huntington, N.Y. -- Oak Brook, Ill.-based Inland Private Capital Corp. announced Wednesday the $40.2 million sale of Huntington Square Plaza, a grocery-anchored shopping center located in Huntington, N.Y., on Long Island.

Toronto-based RioCan Holdings purchased the 116,221-sq.-ft. center, which Inland Private Capital Corp. offered to a group of private tenant-in-common investors in 2004.

FRAMINGHAM, Mass. — Staples announced that Rico Rodriguez, of TV's "Modern Family" will star in the retailer's new back-to-school campaign. 

"Staples is the top destination for back-to-school shopping with great deals all season long," said Jevin Eagle, EVP merchandising and marketing for Staples. "We have amazing deals and a huge selection of school supplies and technology for students."

Austin, Texas -- Jacksonville, Fla.-based Regency Centers said it has leased 15,000 sq. ft. of retail space in Austin, Texas, to six new tenants.

Pure Barre opened a 1,750-sq.-ft. studio at North Hills Town Center, bringing the center to 100% occupancy.

NEW YORK — Rising food prices and shrinking package sizes is a top concern for consumers, according to Deloitte's "2011 Consumer Food and Product Insight Survey."