eCommerce

Grapevine, Texas -- GameStop on Thursday said it plans to open between 350 to 550 stores in its technology brands segment (whose banners include Simply Mac, Cricket and Spring Mobile, which sells post-paid AT&T services and wireless products through its 358 AT&T branded stores) while closing about 3%,  some  200, of its 6,000 GameStop video locations in 2015.

By Michael Wippler

We are or should be familiar with the Americans with Disabilities Act’s (“ADA”) requirements for accommodating the physically disabled. Wheelchair ramps, handicap stalls, handicap parking, lifts, and other items designed to assist the physically disabled are commonplace. However, the ADA is much broader than this, and the United States Department of Justice (“DOJ”) and the courts are focusing on making the internet more accessible for the visually impaired.

Mahwah, N.J. - Brian Lynch, a 35-year fashion and retail industry veteran, has been named president and CEO of Ascena Retail Group’s Justice brand, which is targeted at tween girls. Lynch most recently served as president of Ann Taylor brand. Previously, he held executive positions with Ann Inc.; Gap Inc.; Learningsmit Inc.; and The Walt Disney Co.

Lynch replaces Michael Rayden, who retired in January. Rayden had announced his retirement in October, and Ascena subsequently launched a search for his replacement.

Aldi's pace of growth is about to quicken now that its acquisition of Delhaize Group's Bottom Dollar Food store locations is complete.

The retailer announced it has completed its purchase of 66 real estate assets from the Delhaize Group. The transaction includes the land, buildings and leasehold improvements associated with Delhaize's recently retired Bottom Dollar Food operation.

Putting aside a worse than expected fourth quarter loss, regional discounter Fred’s could be on the cusp of more meaningful growth after assembling a roster of top executive talent under the leadership of CEO Jerry Shore and president Mike Bloom.

GameStop’s strongest growth in 2015 will have little to do with gaming as the company plans to open between 350 to 550 stores in technology brands segment while paring its GameStop store presence.

The company’s technology brands segment is comprised of 361 ATT&T brand stores, 63 Cricket branded stores that offer wireless products and services and 60 Simply Mac Stores. Meanwhile, the company has indicated it will close 3%, or nearly 200 of its approximately 6,000 traditional video game stores.

Vancouver -- Lululemon Athletica Inc. is apparently back on track, reporting better-than-expected results for the fourth quarter amid increased traffic. On the company’s quarterly conference call, executives said the retailer hopes to post double-digit square footage growth for the United States and Canada in its current fiscal year, in addition to continuing to grow its brand overseas.

Amazon is accelerating the expansion of its one-hour delivery servcie with a rollout of the program in Dallas.

The e-commerce giant started its Prime Now rapid delivery service in December in parts of Manhattan, and expanded to Baltimore and Miami this month.

The ultra-fast service initially launched as a benefit for Prime members.