Apparel

For the first time, H&M shoppers will be able to purchase merchandise straight on the runway.   On March 2, H&M is launching its ‘See Now, Buy Now’ show, which enables customers to log onto its site and purchase items from its H&M Studio collection immediately following its presentation during Paris Fashion Week. Merchandise will also be available in select H&M stores.   

In its newest partnership, Target has joined up with BaubleBar, the online fast-fashion jewelry brand.   The two companies have come together for a new collection, called Sugarfix by BaubleBar, that will feature original designs and pieces inspired by the brand's most popular styles. The line will be available exclusively on Target.com and in some 900 Target stores beginning Jan. 31.  

The former CEO of the nation’s top plus-size apparel chains will soon head up a food retailer.   Just days after it was revealed that Linda Heasely had left her position as chief executive of Ascena Retail Group’s Lane Bryant and Catherine’s, Honey Baked Ham Company announced that it had appointed her as its new CEO, effective Feb. 6, 2017.  

Soaring customer expectations are creating an increasingly challenging environment for brands seeking engagement.   That’s according to the 22nd annual Brand Keys Customer Loyalty Engagement Index, which recognizes the brands that receive the highest loyalty and engagement assessments and surpass competitors for "delighting" customers.  

Abercrombie & Fitch is in cost-cutting mode.     The teen apparel retailer has let go 150 employees at its headquarters in New Albany, Ohio, Columbus Business First reported.    The retailer said the layoffs were part of its “ongoing cost reduction initiatives,” according to the report.  

Nordstrom Rack is bullish on Chicago.    The retailer announced plans to open a store at Mellody Farm in Vernon Hills, Ill. The property, which is being developed by Regency Centers, is located 30 miles north of downtown Chicago.   The approximately 30,000-sq.-ft. store, scheduled to open in fall 2018, will be the 15th Rack store in Chicagoland following the announcement of new locations in Kildeer, Ill., and Schererville, Ind., which are opening this spring.   

American consumers are ready to celebrate the Super Bowl, but they don’t plan on spending as much as they did last year.      Consumers will spend an average of $75 for a total of $14.1 billion as an estimated 188.5 million watch the Atlanta Falcons face the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LI on February 5, according to the National Retail Federation’s annual Super Bowl Spending Survey conducted by Prosper Insights & Analytics.  

Lululemon Athletica has opened a community-centric, European flagship on Regent Street in London. The two-level, 6,344-sq.-ft. store is the brand’s second largest in the world, second only to its New York flagship.    Designed by Dalziel & Pow, London, the new Lululemon combines the latest in technology with a locally-inspired design and community experiences. A palette of greys and marbles with hints of bronze help make for a soothing escape from the hustle and bustle of the city streets.