Apparel

Target Corp. is doubling down on its efforts to distinguish itself with exclusive brands and to be a leader in two key categories.     The discounter revealed in a posting on its web site that it will launch three new apparel brands and one new home goods brand in its stores and online this fall.    

Specialty luxury retailer Barneys New York has been recognized for the lighting design at its new downtown flagship in New York City.  

West Marine Inc. is going private.   The retailer of boating gear, apparel and other waterlife-related products has agreed to be acquired by New York-based Monomoy Capital Partners for $12.97 per share. The deal has a total equity value of $338 million.  Following the close of the deal, West Marine will continue to be operated independently by the company's management team.  

Nike is opening up shop on Amazon.   The sportswear giant has entered into a pilot program with the online giant to sell a limited (at least initially) selection of footwear, apparel, and accessories on the online site. Nike products have long been available on Amazon, but only through unauthorized third party sellers. This will be the first time that Nike has sold directly on the Amazon.   

Its Macy’s and J.C. Penney’s continue to do business. In-line stores close, but new tenants quickly assume their spaces. Shoppers continue to arrive from as far as 75 miles away.   The Empire Mall in Sioux Falls isn’t exactly bucking trends. It’s merely an example of a core precept of retail which states that malls will survive where jobs and rooftops are rising, according to a report in the local Argus Leader.   

While Amazon expands its physical presence, Walmart Canada is taking its own swipe at the online giant — by moving in on its turf.   

Under Armour founder and CEO Kevin Plank is stepping back from his role as president.   The sporting goods company announced that retail veteran Patrik Frisk will become president and COO, effective July 10. He will have responsibility for the company's go-to-market strategy and the successful execution of its long-term growth plan and report directly to Kevin Plank, who has also held the title of president since 2010.  

Eager to improve customer service and security at the front end, Forever 21 is converting its point-of-sale (POS) fleet to a single solution.   Through a partnership with Toshiba Global Commerce Solutions, the fast-fashion retailer is adding the vendor’s hardware, equipment and services across all its corporate stores around the globe. The agreement makes Toshiba the chain’s single point of contact for all POS systems, peripherals and original equipment manufacturer (OEM) front and back office retail store technology.