Mass Merchant

Walmart and Africa’s leading retailer Massmart Holdings Limited are in talks that could lead to a $4.4 billion deal, the companies announced early Monday. The nonbinding proposal outlined by the companies envisions an all cash deal in which Walmart would pay 148 South African Rand, or roughly $21 per share, to acquire Massmart’s outstanding shares.

Walmart announced that it will add solar-generating systems to another 20 to 30 sites in California and Arizona, and the majority of these locations will feature new lighter, lower-cost thin film solar technology. The new solar power systems will be designed, installed, owned and maintained by SolarCity, Foster City, Calif.

"Developing and incorporating new renewable energy sources, like thin film, reduces energy price risk and aligns very well with our commitment to solving business challenges through technology," said Kim Saylors Laster, Walmart VP energy.

MINNEAPOLIS - Target announced it will carry the Apple iPad in 1,743 Target stores nationwide beginning Oct. 3. Target said it will offer a range of iPad models, including the 16GB Wi-Fi model starting at $499.99, the 32GB and 64GB Wi-Fi and the Wi-Fi+3G models.

“Target is very excited to offer the revolutionary iPad to our guests nationwide,” said Mark Schindele, SVP merchandising for Target. “We are committed to providing our guests with the best products and we think iPad will be at the top of our guests’ holiday shopping lists.”