Retail

Cranford, N.J. -- Winick Realty Group N.J. has announced the formation of an investment sales division in the company’s Cranford, N.J., office. The new division will focus on a wide range of properties from ne-leased investment-grade properties to shopping centers throughout New Jersey.

“The investment sales market is red-hot right now, with a substantial amount of business that reaches pre-recession levels,” said Tyler Bennett, senior VP and founding partner of Winick Realty N.J.

Austin, Texas -- Research results released Thursday by coupon site Offers.com found that 67% of U.S. parents with school-aged children plan to spend more than $100 per child on back-to-school shopping this year.

NEW YORK — Japanese apparel retailer Uniqlo, a division of Fast Company, is expanding its U.S. footprint with the opening of 10 stores this fall in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and California.

The new locations, all in shopping centers, will bring the brand’s presence in the United States to a total of 17 sites.

Fresno, Calif. -- Three former Target employees have filed suit against Target Corp., alleging that the retailer discriminated against them for being Hispanic.

The trio, which filed the suit on June 24 in Yolo County, Calif., cited a training document that reminded Target store managers that not all Hispanics eat tacos and burritos, dance to salsa or wear sombreros. They also alleged that Woodland, Calif., warehouse workers used racial slurs when addressing Hispanic workers.
   

MARYSVILLE, Ohio — The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company has named Ivan Smith as EVP, general counsel and corporate secretary. The 10-year veteran of the company replaces former EVP Vincent Brockman, who resigned to "pursue other interests."

"Ivan possesses tremendous legal knowledge and experience and has been a strong leader throughout his career," said Jim Hagedorn, chairman and CEO. "His sound judgment and business acumen will serve ScottsMiracle-Gro well in the years to come."

Weymouth, Mass. -- Whole Foods Market has opened at Pleasant Shops in Weymouth, Mass., according to Federal Realty Investment Trust, one of the center’s joint venture owners.

The 40,000-sq.-ft. store, Whole Foods’ 23rd location in Massachusetts, will employ 140 full and part time workers.

By Niclas Qvist, Pricer

BRISBANE, Calif. — Global specialty retailer Bebe reported retail sales of $109 million for the fourth fiscal quarter ended July 6, a decrease of 8.5% compared to $119.1 million for the fiscal quarter ended June 30, 2012. 

Comparable store sales for the quarter decreased 7.1% compared to a decrease of 2.5% in the fourth fiscal quarter of the prior year. The decrease was primarily driven by the negative comparable store traffic during the quarter, with April being the most negative.