Supply Chain & Merchandising

Wells Fargo retail analyst Matt Nemer put several leading retailers to the test this week with an innovative approach to research. According to Barron’s, he went on a $5,000 shopping spree on the websites of some of the largest Internet-only and traditional retailers. He said Amazon.com offered the best shopping experience, and he rated the retailer at outperform. Walmart.com, was said to have higher prices than Amazon’s, but had strong customer service and didn’t showed up as well in searches.

Irwin Tools, a leading maker of hand tools and power tool accessories based in Huntersville, N.C., has named Ross Porter as its new president. Porter has held a variety of positions during his 18 years at Newell Rubbermaid, Irwin’s parent company. He most recently served as president of EMEA Transformation, where Porter led the company’s European transformation efforts, including implementation of a new European business model, integration and implementation of SAP enterprise system, and relocation of its European headquarters.

It was almost all good news for Advance Auto parts this week, as the company reported record fourth-quarter sales and profits. Fourth-quarter earnings per share increased 46% to 57 cents compared with 36 cents during the comparable period the prior year, and full-year profits rose to $3.95 from $2.83 the prior year.

Hingham, Mass. -- The Talbots said in a regulatory filing that key executive John Fiske is leaving the company.

Fiske, 46, was named the chief stores officer of the company in March 2009 after serving as a human resources executive. He was part of a management team that was put in place to improve business results.

Talbots has been struggling in its turnaround efforts. The company cut its guidance last month after a weak holiday shopping season. 

Those who believe the world is on the brink of collapse may want to head over to Sam’s Club.com where the retailer is offering a one-year emergency food supply kit for $949. The manufacturer, Augason Farms, notes in the product description that large numbers of Americans all over the country are becoming more aware of their need of emergency food storage. The pitch continues, “storing food for your family is one of the most prudent actions you will ever take to protect your loved ones.