Apparel

Abuse of liberal return policies and enterprising thieves will cost the retail industry $8.9 billion this year, including $2.9 billion during the holidays alone.

The National Retail Federation arrived at those massive numbers after surveying loss prevention executives at 60 member companies who estimated that 4.6% returns made during the holidays are fraudulent.

Stamford, Conn. -- Pitney Bowes Inc. said that leathergoods retailer Dooney & Bourke will use technology and shipping services from Pitney Bowes to help expand the global online reach of its handbags and accessories.

Dooney & Bourke will use Pitney Bowes’s e-commerce software and international shipping services to help offer a seamless and convenient cross-border purchasing and shipping experience to online shoppers to destinations in up to 90 countries worldwide.
 

EVANSVILLE, Ind. — Former Belk executive Carl Scibetta has been named the new EVP and GMM at Shoe Carnival. Scibetta will report to Cliff Sifford, the former GMM, who was recently appointed president and CEO of the company.

Hampstead, Md. -- JoS. A. Bank Clothiers announced the opening of its 600th store, in the Shops at Midtown Miami on North Miami Avenue in Miami. The company said it expects to open another 200 stores in the future as part of its long-term plan to grow the chain to approximately 800 stores, including 700 full-line stores and 100 factory stores in the United States.

Denton, Texas -- RED Development announced it will bring Dillard’s department store to Rayzor Ranch Town Center, the new, open-air retail and entertainment destination now under development in Denton, Texas.  

Dillard’s, being planned as a 126,000-sq.-ft. store, is the first anchor department store named for the new project since RED became an owner and assumed the management of the property in 2010.  

Delray Beach, Fla. -- Indianapolis-based Kite Realty Group announced that It'Sugar has leased 2,027 sq. ft. at Delray Marketplace located in Delray Beach, Fla.

Panama City Beach, Fla. -- The St. Joe Co., together with Casto and Strategic Retail Advisors, announced a joint venture to develop Pier Park North, a 390,000-sq.-ft. shopping center located across from Pier Park Lifestyle Center in Panama City Beach, Fla.

Confirmed retailers include Dick’s Sporting Goods, Michaels, Pier 1 Imports and Kirkland’s. Pier Park North anticipates opening in spring 2014.

From ultra-lux boutiques to fast-fashion emporiums, New York City saw an influx of new stores this past year. Here’s our list of the top new must-see stores in the city:

C. Wonder: The brand’s second Manhattan location is even more whimsical and colorful than the first. With decor that includes polka-dot horses, multicolored striped zebras and 6-ft. logo teddy bears, the 8,000-sq.-ft. store personifies C. Wonder’s fun, upbeat personality. (Shops at Columbus Circle, 18 Columbus Circle)