eCommerce

New York City -- The California Supreme Court says merchants in the state can no longer ask credit-card customers for their ZIP codes, the Associated Press reported.

Department stores and shopping centers malls are gaining market share for the first time in three decades, according to consultants Customer Growth Partners, and this month most will report their best annual earnings in years -- if not ever.

“Department stores from Macy’s to Nordstrom, and mall operators from Macerich to Simon, have used the recession not just to cut costs, but to reinvent themselves,” said Craig Johnson, president, Customer Growth Partners, a consulting and research firm serving retail and other consumer industries.

WAYNE, N.J. -- Toys“R”Us has announced the launch of the first-ever collection of wood vehicles, track and playsets based on the popular Disney-Pixar movie, Cars, availableexclusively at Toys“R”Us stores around the world and online at Toysrus.com. The collection was created and designed by Toys“R”Us in collaboration with Disney Consumer Products.

Indianapolis -- MID Retail announced Urban Outfitters has selected MID Advanced Allocation Software to forecast and distribute merchandise for all store locations across its Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie, and Free People brands. The MID solution was designed to help multi-store, multi-sku retailers increase accuracy, efficiency and profitability. The system includes both pack and size optimization modules for accurate sku-level allocation and replenishment.

PLANO, Texas -- JCPenney has joined forces with teen and tween online community Stardoll.com for the launch of the first-ever, exclusive Stardoll brand of clothing and accessories.  This exciting, new brand will launch in 300 JCPenney stores and on jcp.com for the 2011 back-to-school season.

Stardoll.com is online community for girls that lets them create and dress their own personalized "MeDoll" avatars and use them to interact with other girls. 

NEW YORK -- Macy's has announced the launch of "Edie Rose Home," an exclusive tabletop collection designed by actress Rachel Bilson, now available at select Macy's stores nationwide and on macys.com. 

Austin, Texas -- Whole Foods Market’s first quarter net income surged 79% to $88.7 million, on an increase in customer visits and a rise in average transactions. The natural and organic foods grocer raised 2011 profit outlook on its strong results, which beat expectations.