Accessories

TJX has been on a growth and revenue spree of late, and now the off-price retailer is apparently looking to expand down under.

New York – Although overall back-to-school shopping is starting later in 2015 than the prior year, online back-to-school shoppers are getting an earlier start than their brick-and-mortar counterparts. According to a new trend report on back-to-school shopping from Internet marketing agency PM Digital, 30% of online shoppers will start buying back-to-school items at least two months before school starts, compared to 22% of overall shoppers.

Miami, Fla. -- Columbia Sportswear Company is expanding its new store concept.

The company has opened Performance Fishing Gear (PFG), in Miami’s The Falls. The 5,654 sq.-ft. store features the latest and greatest from the popular collection, along with an interactive knot-tying station and digital design elements.

Germantown, Tenn. - Trademark Property Co. has broken ground on the second phase of redevelopment at its Saddle Creek shopping center in Germantown, Tennessee, focusing on enhancements to the north side of the property. Combined with the initial phase, which is nearing completion, the redevelopment efforts will add approximately 25,000 sq. ft. of new retail space to the property.

Houston – Specialty retailer Charming Charlie is setting its sights beyond its North American store base. Charming Charlie opened the brand’s first locations outside of North America with two new retail stores in Dubai.   The stores, located at City Centre Mirdif and Ibn Battuta Mall, are operated by Apparel Group, Charming Charlie’s first international licensing partner, which has further growth planned for the brand in Qatar this year.   

Gymboree is launching a colorful new campaign aimed at increasing awareness of a cause near and dear to the heart of its core customers.

The retailer has started a new effort to raise money in Gymboree and Gymboree Outlet stores to fund arts and crafts requests made by teachers on DonorsChoose.org. The goal is to fulfill classroom requests in every county where there is a Gymboree retail location.

Francesca's is adding a retail industry veteran to its board.

The retailer has appointed Martyn Redgrave as a member of the board of directors. The appointment is effective immediately. Redgrave will serve on the audit committee and the nominating and corporate governance committee.

Dick's Sporting Goods is leaving no target market unaccounted for in its quest for growth and expansion.

The retailer is launching a new "fitness and lifestyle" boutique concept aimed at women called Chelsea Collective. The first two Chelsea Collective locations will open in August in Tysons Corner, Va., at Tysons Corner Center and Pittsburgh at Ross Park Mall. 

San Mateo, Calif. — Online membership shopping service ShopRunner is adding some well-known fashion brands to its mix.

ShopRunner has signed new partnership agreements with Alexis Bittar, Alice + Olivia, Bebe, Joie, Kooba and Lucky Brand.

The former head merchant for Staples has been named president and CEO of eBags Inc.

The eBags board of directors appointed Mike Edwards as president, CEO and member of the board of directors effective immediately. He also joins the company as a new investor.

Edwards most recently held the position of executive vice president of global merchandising for Staples Inc.