Department Store

New York -- J.C. Penney on Thursday shot back at reports that its sales were weak in the late August and early September back-to-school season and said it was pleased with the progress of its turnaround efforts.

The company said it still expected positive comparable-store sales trends coming out of the third quarter and throughout the fourth, adding that its online sales continue to rise in double-digits over last year.

Chadds Ford, Pa. — Three more new retailers have signed leases at Glen Eagle Square. Gap’s national women’s athletic wear brand Athleta, took 5,100 sq. ft. Pet Valu leased 3,200 sq. ft. and Not Your Average Joes, a casual American-style restaurant will occupy more than 7,200 sq. ft.

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Big Lots has joined the National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD) as full board members. 

NACD full board member companies range in size from large-cap to small-cap companies. Through their membership, these companies become part of a diverse director community and have the opportunity to share and gain insights about current and emerging issues and to take part in NACD's director education programs.

Plano, Texas – J.C. Penney Co., Inc. will reportedly hire about 35,000 seasonal workers for the upcoming holiday season. According to Reuters, holiday workers will help perform tasks such as assisting customers and updating price signage.

J.C. Penney also hired about 35,000 seasonal employees during the 2011 holiday season. The retailer did not release holiday hiring figures last year.

Suffern, N.Y. -- Ascena Retail Group’s adjusted fiscal fourth-quarter profit exceeded Wall Street estimates, driven by strong same-store sales at its Lane Bryant division.

Looking ahead, the company, whose brands include Justice, Lane Bryant, Maurices, Dressbarn and Catherines, said it plans to open approximately 180 to 190 stores and close 115 to 125 stores.

Ascena’s net income jumped to $29.8 million for the quarter that ended July 27, compared with net income of $1.6 million in its fourth quarter last year.

A recovering housing market spells good news for the home and housewares, as seen in Bed Bath & Beyond’s second quarter results for the period ended Aug. 31.

The company reported net earnings of $1.16 per diluted share, or $249.3 million, for the quarter, an increase of 18.4% versus net earnings of $0.98 per diluted share, or $224.3 million, in the same quarter a year ago.  

Denton, Texas — Denim specialty retailer Buckle plans to open a store at Golden Triangle Mall on Oct.17. Golden Triangle, Denton’s only mall, features Macy’s, Dillard’s, J.C. Penney, Sears, Barnes & Noble and DSW Show Warehouse as anchors.

Cencor Realty Services manages the mall, and The Weitzman Group www.weitzmangroup.com is the exclusive leasing agent for the property.