Retail

National Retail Federation SVP for government relations David French spoke to Fox News' Stuart Varney about D.C.’s decision to pass a living wage bill requiring non-union, big box retailers to pay their employees $12.60 per hour. As a result of the bill's passing, Walmart has scrapped plans to open three stores in the District. While defenders of the bill point out that the living wage is a fair one given cost of living and the still challeneging economic climate, Varney says the District, via its council members, is turning down 2,000 jobs and French agrees.

NEW YORK — Macy's is launching its latest Parisian-inspired fashion brand, Maison Jules, atop a limited-edition bicycle — so to speak — in collaboration with Martone Cycling Company.

Twinkies fans devastated by the news that their Hostess snack cake was to be no more have been waiting for its comeback Monday, July 15. Walmart wants those folks to know that they don't need to wait until Monday to treat themselves.

“Twinkies Watch” is officially on at the retailer. Starting today, the new Hostess Twinkies will be available at select Walmart stores nationwide. All domestic U.S. stores will be fully stocked by 12:01 a.m. Sunday, July 14, and stores in Hawaii and Alaska in the coming weeks.
 

Walmart increased promotional activity in June with nearly a 50% increase in circular pages and 80% increase in ad blocks, according to the latest data from ECRM Analytics. The surge in promotional activity was notable given the behavior of key competitors who were less aggressive. Click here for more.

STAMFORD, Conn. — GE Capital Retail Bank’s second annual Major Purchase Shopper Study has found that a growing number of consumers extensively research and compare prices and financing offers before making major purchases.

NEWBURYPORT, Mass. — Foodservice Industry veteran Mike Pennella has agreed to serve as an adviser to the board Dianne's Fine Desserts' board of directors.

LOS ANGELES — Specialty sporting goods retailer Sport Chalet is teaming up with California Triathlon, a statewide network of triathlon clubs in California, as part of its strategy to position itself as a one-stop shopping destination for triathletes.

The partnership drives foot traffic into Sport Chalet's brick-and-mortar stores by encouraging members of the various participating triathlon clubs to turn to the retailer for the equipment and gear they need.

A Walmart employee in Canada was fired this week after confronting a customer who left a dog in a truck, according to a television report out of Ontario.