Consumer Electronics

New York -- Apple has tapped Foster + Partners to refresh its store design, according to a report by Marketing.

The London-based architectural company has a history with Apple. It was hired by the late Steve Jobs to help design and create Apple’s new UFO-styled corporate headquarters, which is still under construction.

MIDDLEBURY, Conn. — Timex has launched of "I Am A Runner," the brand's new marketing campaign that celebrates every runner's unique personal story. Bringing to life the passion and motivation that unites all runners, regardless of skill level, "I Am A Runner" is an interactive initiative that provides a platform for consumers to share their running experiences and rewards them for sharing their stories.

BENTON HARBOR, Mich. — KitchenAid is partnering with Abt Electronics in Glenview, Ill. to kick off Earth Week and encourage the responsible disposal of unwanted small electric kitchen appliances. From April 18 through May 16, Abt customers will receive an instant rebate toward the purchase of a new KitchenAid small appliance when they bring in any brand of small electric kitchen appliances to the store.  

Chandler, Ariz. -- Simon Property Group announced Friday that it opened Phoenix Premium Outlets, the upscale outlet shopping center serving the Greater Phoenix and Scottsdale areas.   
 

New York -- Jewelry sales are expected to grow more than 11% in the second quarter and 9% overall this year, according to a new IBM Big Data-based forecast.

According to the analysis, improved consumer confidence, lower unemployment and enhanced stock dividends from fourth quarter 2012 have combined to leave people ready to start spending on luxury items again, like jewelry.

San Francisco -- Westfield San Francisco Centre will be home to the city’s first Microsoft retail store, slated to open on April 25.

Other mall additions include Samsonite, Color Me Mine ceramics studio, Amy’s Hallmark and pop-up store Celestine SF.

Whether you are a retail analyst or a casual observer, it can be all too easy to get lost in the negativity of recent store closings and retail bankruptcies.

San Francisco -- Jamestown said Wednesday it has acquired a real estate portfolio in downtown San Luis Obispo, Calif., comprised of 86% retail and 14% office space in open-air, multi-story settings.

The retail component, purchased from Copeland Properties, consists of seven assets, the most notable being Court Street Centre and Downtown Centre, and totals approximately 195,000 sq. ft. The portfolio also includes 28,000 sq. ft. of office space in three separate properties.