Footwear

Francesca's is turning to a merchandising veteran of Kohl's and Macy's to take over as the specialty retailer's new chief merchant.

The company announced it has named Laurie Hummel to the position of executive VP/chief merchandising officer, effective Nov. 30. She will report to Michael W. Barnes, the chairman, president, and CEO. Hummel will lead all merchandising, product development and vendor related supply chain functions.

For most retailers, one store in Manhattan's Times Square is good enough. But not for Skechers.

Skechers USA has opened its second location in Times Square. The new outlet is located in the heart of the busy area, on what's known as the Bow Tie.

Skechers has surpassed its fundraising goal for special needs kids with an ever-popular event that appeals to its target market.

Walnut Creek, Calif. -- Macerich announced 45 retailers set to join Broadway Plaza in Walnut Creek, California. The center, anchored by Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus and Macy's, is undergoing a major renovation that will add 315,000 sq. ft. of new space, parking, new finishes and refreshed outdoor amenities.

Nike has brought its “community store” concept to California, opening a 19,000-sq.-ft.-plus location in East Los Angeles.

Cabela’s smaller stores are not as productive as the company would like, so the outdoor retailer is putting the brakes on new store growth while it focuses on productivity.

Cabela’s smaller stores are not as productive as the company would like so the outdoor retailer is tapping the brakes on growth while it focuses on productivity.
 
In conjunction with the release of disappointing third quarter results and a reduced full year profit forecast, Cabela’s said it was evaluating it store expansion schedule and currently expects to open seven stores next year and no more than that in 2017.

Little Rock, Ark. -- New England Development opened Outlets of Little Rock in Little Rock, Arkansas, on Oct. 16. The center welcomed thousands of area residents and visitors to shop at Arkansas’ only outlet center.

The newest destination for shopping in the region is home to first-to-market fashion retailers: Under Armour, Asics, Bass Factory Store, Brooks Brothers Factory Store, Cole Haan, Levi's Outlet Store, Lindt Chocolate Shop, Restoration Hardware and Skechers.

Sportsman's Warehouse is growing its store presence out West.

The retailer will open a store in Slidell, Louisiana, its first in the state, and another in Las Cruces, New Mexico.

The Louisiana store will be located in the Rouse Shopping Center, and is expected to open in early 2016.

The store in Las Cruces will be located on Telshore Boulevard and is expected to open in the summer of 2016.

Express is partnering with 17 specialty men’s apparel brands to launch a new e-commerce site.

The exclusive online-only shop will launch on express.com beginning October 2015 and will feature brands including Creative Recreation, Havaianas, Timex, Robert Mason and more. Product categories will include footwear, watches, bags & small leather accessories, electronics, small accessories & giftables and jewelry.