Sales & Marketing

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — Retail Velocity and SAP Applications have expanded their partnership to develop and launch the Velocity Demand Data Streaming Service, which will integrate data streams from retailers and distributors and show manufacturers the impact consumers have on the supply chain.

Menomonee Falls, Wis. -- Kohl’s Department Stores released its 2012 corporate social responsibility report, providing updates on the company’s programs and accomplishments in sustainability, community relations and social compliance. The company noted that, as of the end of fiscal 2012, it has achieved 752 Energy Star-certified locations, adding 75 stores in 2012 with a goal to reach 800 certified locations by 2015.

In other sustainability highlights, at the end of fiscal 2012:

TORONTO, Ontario — U.S.-based specialty retail apparel chain Express has completed its move to parity pricing, in an effort to grow its customer base in the Canadian market.

Consistent North American pricing for all apparel and accessories available at the retailer will ensure that shoppers throughout the United States and Canada can enjoy the same value and shopping experience. Online shoppers will also be able to take advantage of the parities, including an $8 shipping fee, as well as free shipping on all orders totaling more than $125. 

New York -- Ann Inc. said Monday it has already surpassed its 2015 emission goal by reducing its carbon footprint by 8% per square foot.

The parent of Ann Taylor and Loft has now upped its objective, setting a new goal of reducing emissions per square foot by 30% by 2015.

The to-date reductions in carbon emissions were achieved through the implementation of key programs ranging from the installation of in-store energy-efficient lighting to behavioral change campaigns for associates.

Camp Hill, Pa. -- Rite Aid Corp. said Monday it has redesigned Riteaid.com to a more personalized and engaging version.

Rite Aid worked with digital and healthcare communications firm Razorfish Healthware on the project.

“Today’s customer expects more from their online experience than ever before, so it’s critical that our website not only meets but exceeds their expectations,” said Ken Martindale, COO, Rite Aid.

New York -- A Monday report by Reuters said that J.C. Penney has begun selling the Martha Stewart “JCP Everyday” lines of home goods, without waiting for a decision from the New York court.

According to Reuters, Penney general merchandise manager Paul Rutenis testified in New York State Supreme Court on Monday that "as of today, those products are on the floor and online."

SAN ANTONIO, Texas — H-E-B, Pampers and Interactions have teamed up to offer an exclusive 60-stop H-E-B Baby “Little Texans Tour,” sponsored by Pampers. 

The tour aims to promote healthy families and the assortment of infant and baby products offered at H-E-B stores. 

PAWTUCKET, R.I. — Strength in the games category enabled Hasbro to increase first quarter revenues by 2% to $664 million compared to $649 million for the same period last year. 

First quarter revenues were negatively affected by $3 million due to the impact of foreign exchange and one less week in the reporting period. The first quarter 2013 was a 13-week period compared to the first quarter 2012, which was a 14-week period.