Supply Chain & Merchandising

DSW puts best foot forward
Discount footwear retailer DSW topped analysts’ predictions for the second quarter fueled by an unexpected increase in same-store sales. Net income was $28.6 million, or 35 cents a share, in the quarter that ended July 29, compared with $25 million, or 30 cents a share, in second quarter 2016. Sales rose 3.3% to $680.4 million. Same-store sales edged up 0.6%, the first positive comp quarter since 2015. Analysts had expected same-store sales to fall 2%.
eBay exec to head up Macy's brand
In a move that reflects the increased prominence of digital in traditional retail operations, Macy's has hired a senior eBay executive as president of its namesake brand. Hal Lawton has been named president of Macy’s, effective Sept. 8, 2017. He will be responsible for all aspects of the Macy’s brand, including merchandising, marketing, stores, operations, technology, and consumer insights and analytics. Lawton will report to CEO Jeff Gennette, who previously held the role before becoming chief executive in March.

Analysis: DSW on sound footing for better growth

Overall, this is a solid set of results from DSW which shows the company is moving in the right direction. The 0.6% rise in comparable sales may not be spectacular, but given it is the first time in over two years that the measure has been positive, we see it as an encouraging sign.
Macy's consolidates merchandising ops, cuts 100 jobs

Macy's is streamlining its merchandising operations, expanding its exclusive products and putting increased emphasis on customer insights and data analytics as new CEO Jeff Gennette begins to make his mark on the ailing department store giant.
Key exec departs Francesca's Holdings

Francesca's Holdings Corp. is on the hunt for a new chief merchant. The apparel retailer announced that Laurie Hummel, executive VP and chief merchandising officer, has left the company. It did not provide a reason for her departure. Hummel joined Francesca's in November 2015. Previously, she served two years as senior VP and divisional merchandise manager at Kohl’s. Before that, she was with State Stores.
Milestone store opening for Dollar General

Dollar General is celebrating an important milestone. The discounter has opened its 14,000th retail location. The store is located in Dauphin, Pa. “Dollar General is excited to celebrate our company’s continued growth by celebrating our 14,000th store grand opening today,” said Todd Vasos, CEO, Dollar General. “For nearly 80 years, Dollar General has continually been focused on delivering everyday low prices, convenience and value to the communities we serve."
Center changes hands in ‘fast-growing’ Folsom

Citing favorable demographics and a steady income stream, Nazareth Enterprises acquired the Walmart Central Shopping Center in Folsom, California for $39.7 million. Besides Walmart, the 139,377-sq.-ft. center contains a 24-hour Fitness SuperSport Gym, the 99Cent Store, and Great Clips. It’s shadow-anchored by a Super Walmart.
Wal-Mart envisions ‘floating warehouse’

Amazon isn't the only retailer thinking about drones. Wal-Mart Stores has applied for a patent for a blimp-styled "floating warehouse" that could make deliveries directly to shoppers’ homes via drones, Bloomberg reported. The machine would fly at heights between 500 ft. and 1,000 ft. and be equipped with multiple launching bays. It would be operated autonomously or by a remote human pilot.
Walmart expands online grocery delivery via Uber

The nation's largest retailer continues to beef up its defenses against Amazon. Walmart is expanding its online grocery delivery pilot via Uber to Orlando and Dallas. The pilot is currently ongoing in Phoenix and Tampa, Fla. (The chain also runs its own grocery delivery service in Denver and San Jose, California.) Walmart announced the expansion just days prior to a scheduled vote by Whole Foods Market's shareholders on its pending acquisition by Amazon.
Regulatory Wrap-Up: Updates on paid leave, cybersecurity and trade

Wages

Supply Chain & Merchandising

DSW puts best foot forward

eBay exec to head up Macy's brand

Analysis: DSW on sound footing for better growth

Macy's consolidates merchandising ops, cuts 100 jobs

Key exec departs Francesca's Holdings

Milestone store opening for Dollar General

Center changes hands in ‘fast-growing’ Folsom

Wal-Mart envisions ‘floating warehouse’

Walmart expands online grocery delivery via Uber

Regulatory Wrap-Up: Updates on paid leave, cybersecurity and trade

Wages