Apparel

MISSISSAUGA, Ontario — Target has revealed its exclusive partnerships, own brands and limited collections that Canadian consumers can look forward to experiencing once the retailer opens its first stores in the country this spring.

Mississauga, Ontario -- Target officially unveiled its partners, owned brands and limited-time only collections that will be featured in its Canadian stores, which will  start opening in March/April 2013.

In addition to Target's ongoing partnerships, the Canadian stores will include an exclusive, limited-time only collaboration with Roots. The new Roots Outfitters collection for Target will offer fashion for women, men, boys, girls and toddlers, and will be available from March to June 2013.

Armonk, N.Y. -- Online fashion retailer Privalia said Friday it is working with IBM to boost its expanding online sales business through mobile and social channels.

Privalia organizes online flash sales, a phenomena that offers personalized, limited-time offers to consumers at attractive prices.

Footlocker COO Richard Johnson has joined the board of Maidenform Brands.

Johnson serves as EVP and COO at Footlocker, one of the nation’s leading retailers of athletic footwear, and has been with the company for 16 years.

"We are delighted to welcome Dick to our board of directors," said Maurice S. Reznik, Footlocker’s CEO. "Dick has demonstrated strong leadership at Foot Locker and his broad operating and international experience will serve Maidenform well."

PHILADELPHIA — Teen and tween retailer Five Below will open 60 stores this year, including its first-ever locations in Texas.

The retailer said it will open four to five stores in Austin, Texas, and 10 to 12 stores in Dallas by late summer, with the potential for more than 100 stars in the Lone Star Sate stores over time.

By Bradley W. Snyder, [email protected]

Boston -- Popular jewelry retailer Alex and Ani implemented a mobile point-of-sale application that all but eliminated customer lines and helped increase sales by 318% over the previous holiday season, Mobiquity announced.

NEW YORK — Actress Kate Hudson is extending her relationship with Ann Taylor by developing a capsule collection for the fashion retailer. In addition, Hudson will return as ambassador of its spring and summer 2013 campaigns.