Retail

Walmart continues its online buying spree, but this time the target is a Web domain.   ShoeBuy.com, which Walmart acquired in January, has acquired the shoes.com domain name and related intellectual property for $9 million, according to documents filed with the Supreme Court of British Columbia in Bankruptcy and Insolvency. In an unexpected move, the Canada-based Shoes.com shut down its online sites and brick-and-mortar operations in January.   

One way for U.S retail companies to win in 2017 is to look beyond their domestic borders for growth. As retail executives implement this year’s business plans, they should consider embracing cross-border e-commerce in China to grow now, and in the future.   China is the world’s largest and fastest-growing e-commerce market. Cross-border e-commerce is experiencing explosive growth due to Chinese consumers’ desire for lower prices and higher-quality products.   

CVS Pharmacy continues to make a concerted effort to transform its stores, with the goal of fostering a better customer experience.   The retailer on Wednesday officially unveiled a new store design to enhance the retail customer experience with a new assortment of healthier food, health-focused products and expanded beauty selections, paired with informational signage throughout the store to help customers discover new offerings. The retailer hosted an event at The Garage in New York City on Wednesday to showcase the enhancements firsthand.

Walmart wants its suppliers to join the retailer to reduce greenhouse gas emissions resulting from their operations and supply chains.  

Albertsons Companies has appointed Wayne Denningham, currently executive VP and COO, to the new role of president and COO for Albertsons Companies. Denningham will continue to lead store operations with added oversight of marketing & merchandising, supply chain, manufacturing, and integration, all of which will continue under their current leadership.  

Office Depot continues to make good on its promise to focus on its North American business.     The company announced it has reached an agreement to sell its business in Australia and New Zealand to Platinum Equity, a global private equity firm. The transaction is subject to regulatory approval in each country and is expected to close within the next several months.  

One of the fastest-growing regions in the nation--in both jobs and population — will be home to another retail-heavy mixed-use project.   RPS development and High Street Residential, a Trammel Crow unit, will be building 342,000 sq. ft. of retail and restaurant space encompassing 23 buildings in Allen, Texas, according to the Dallas Morning News.  

Orchestra is entering the United States, both online and off.    The 23-year-old French children’s and maternity fashion brand has launched its first English language website. The retailer will make its U.S. brick-and-mortar debut, opening newborn/children's clothing store at King of Prussia Mall, King of Prussia, Pa.