Supply Chain & Merchandising

Weaker results in its European, Saks Off 5th and Gilt operations contributed to lower fourth quarter sales for Hudson’s Bay Company   For the fourth quarter ended January 28, 2017, the company’s consolidated comparable sales decreased 1.2%. Specifically, DSG (Hudson’s Bay, Lord & Taylor and Home Outfitters) same-store sales increased 0.6%, and Saks Fifth Avenue comparable sales increased 0.1%.   

Walmart’s house brands are getting a new audience — millennials.   Jet.com, which caters to the cost-conscious Gen Y segment, has started offering private label brands — Great Value, Equate and Sam’s Choice — from its parent company, Walmart, according to Bloomberg.   

Lowe’s is the latest retailer making job cuts.   The home improvement retailer has laid off more than 500 full-time corporate employees company-wide — its latest effort to streamline the company and boost profitability, the Charlotte Observer reported.    

A disruptive retail climate and underperforming categories took their toll on HSN during the fourth quarter.   HSN’s net income was $43.5 million for the quarter, or 82 cents per share, ended December 31, 2016, compared to $59.7 million for the same period last year. This exceeded analysts’ estimates of 74 cents per share.  

Staying true to its recently announced growth plan, Dollar General is preparing to break ground on a new distribution center.   

Better inventory management and reduced promotions are helping to keep Chico’s FAS on the right financial path.   For the 13 weeks ended January 28, 2017, Chico’s reported net income of $13.5 million compared to a net loss of $21.1 million for the same period last year.   

TJX Cos. is preparing to debut a new retail banner.   Speaking on the chain’s quarterly call with analysts, TJX CEO Ernie Herrman said the company will open four home goods stores in the United States under a new nameplate this year, CNBC reported.   The new concept will allow TJX to enter new markets and sell products that it hasn't currently penetrated with its HomeGoods footprint, Herrman said, according to the report.     

It’s a record that most retailers are envious of, particularly in today’s competitive and disrupted marketplace.    TJX Cos. on Wednesday posted its 21st consecutive year of same-store sales increases, as well as better-than-expected income and revenue results for its fourth quarter. The off-price retailer also raised its quarterly dividend and announced a share repurchase program.