Sales & Marketing

Los Angeles -- CBRE Group released research findings on Tuesday that showed Hong Kong’s continued top position as the world’s most expensive global retail market, recording prime rents nearly 150% higher than New York City.

London ranked third, with prime rental rates 400% lower than Hong Kong’s.

Omaha, Neb. -- Apparel and home-décor retailer Gordmans said Tuesday it has appointed Geoffrey Ayoub as senior VP planning, allocation and analysis.

Ayoub joins Gordmans from EDCON, a South African-based retailer operating over 1,000 stores in multiple retail formats throughout five countries. At EDCON, he served as chief planning officer responsible for all aspects of merchandise planning, allocation, replenishment and merchandise analysis.

FREMONT, Calif. — Men’s Wearhouse has launched a revamped version of its e-commerce site which features upgrades and personalized features that improve the overall online shopping experience, from browsing to buying.

ST. LOUIS — Aisle411, a mobile retail navigation service, has expanded its mobile shopping and searchable store maps smartphone app’s e-footprint. Consumers can now use the app at more than 12,000 retail stores nationwide. 

PHILADELPHIA — Teen discounter Five Below increased its first quarter profit forecast as sales for the period increased 33% to $95.6 million and same store sales advanced 4.2%.

Goodlettsville, Tenn. – Dollar General plans to hire 10,000 new employees this month. As part of the effort, the discount retailer will host a nationwide career fair at 170 locations in 40 states on May 18.

ELIZABETH, N.J. — Century 21 is opening a new concept store at the Outlet Collection Jersey Gardens in Elizabeth, N.J. The retailer hopes a smaller footprint will offer shoppers an “elevated shopping experience” with a highly edited assortment of fashion and accessories for men and women.

By Liz Moughan, Kronos Incorporated

Sometimes uncertainty causes us to put off things we should do now.

This is true when it comes to retailers and their preparation for complying with the Affordable Care Act (ACA). In fact, 56% of organizations reported that they hesitated to initiate any changes in 2012, preferring instead to wait until the Supreme Court decision and the 2012 elections before they took any major actions.