Retail

I’d like to try something a bit different for this week’s column: a market-specific conversation! I’ve tapped Dave Cheatham from Phoenix-based Velocity Retail Group, an X Team International Partner, to help me examine the recent ups and downs of the local retail market in Arizona — and what the lessons learned here mean for brick and mortar retailers nationwide.

New York -- RadioShack has secured a financial boost from GE Capital, securing a loan of about $835 million, according to Marketwatch.com.

The loan, backed by inventory and other existing assets, will help the chain refinance the company's outstanding bank debt and free up cash for its ongoing revamp, the report said.

Wayne, N.J. -- Toys “R” Us 2013 holiday marketing plans include  a new TV campaign that will feature a group of real-life children from local New York charities who think they’re going on a field trip, but actually are going to a Toys “R” Us store where they are given free rein.

Featured at the end of each TV commercial and throughout many of the company’s print and online marketing vehicles, is the hashtag, #WishinAccomplished.
 

Sports Authority is trying out a new store format in its first-ever store in Puerto Rico. The 35,000-sq.-ft. location in Ponce opened its doors Saturday, Oct. 19.

The company describes the new format as an intuitive one that allows consumers to easily find exactly what they need. Featuring specialty sport shops and a spacious layout, the store has been designed specifically to enhance the shopping experience.

New York -- Saks Fifth Avenue, in partnership with Stylewhile, has launched a new iPad App that allows users to fit clothing to their specific body type before purchase. Not only can users virtually 'try on' clothes, but they can also use the App to select various items from retailers to create and style complete looks with the touch of a button.

Bentonville, Ark. – Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. has reportedly named two new managers for its China business. According to Bloomberg, an internal corporate memo indicates Wal-Mart is naming Adrian Blake as senior VP of business development in China and Rob Bray as senior VP of real estate in China.

Tiffany & Co. is launching its enhanced Tiffany.com e-commerce site, which includes improved zoom capabilities and several expanded sections.
 
Blue Book, the company’s collection of couture jewels, is showcased with scenes from the Tiffany Workshop where they are created, as well as an expanded engagement section with a gemologist’s video and review of Tiffany’s quality standards.

New York – Tiffany & Co. is relaunching its Tiffany.com e-commerce site. The site includes enhanced zoom capabilities and several expanded sections.

Blue Book, the company’s collection of couture jewels, is showcased with scenes from the Tiffany Workshop where they are created, as well as an expanded engagement section with a gemologist’s video and review of Tiffany’s quality standards.