Distribution

New York - Imports to the U.S. were up in July from June, and there was a measurable year-over-year increase. According to a new report from supply chain research firm Panjiva, July 2014 showed levels of imports 2% higher than imports in July 2013.

New York -- Burger King Worldwide is in discussions to buy Canadian coffee and doughnut chain Tim Hortons. The two companies said in a joint statement on Monday that the new publicly listed entity would be based in Canada. The move comes as the White House is calling on Congress to take steps to prevent U.S. companies from moving outside the country (“tax inversions”).

The two restaurant companies are currently worth a combined total of about $18 billion, according to media reports.

Arlington, Va. -- The president of the Retail Industry Leaders Association, Sandy Kennedy, has sent a letter to the heads of the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) urging them to remain focused on securing a new, long-term contract in the immediate future to ensure stability at the west coast ports. The letter reflects the growing angst among the retail community over the lack of a new agreement.

Calgary, Alberta, Canada -- Sears Canada Inc. announced the opening of a new 240,000-sq.-ft. fulfillment center located in Calgary, Alberta.

Birmingham, Ala. -- Hibbett Sports profit in the second quarter declined 21% amid higher store operating, selling and administrative expenses. Net income for the 13-week period ended August 2, 2014, was $8.4 million compared with $10.5 million for the 13-week period ended August 3, 2013
  
Net sales for the quarter increased 4.1% to $193.9 million compared with $186.2 million for the 13-week period ended August 3, 2013. Same-store sales edged up 0.1%.
  

New York -- Toms, the footwear company best known for donating a pair of shoes to a child in need for every pair it sells, has sold a 50% stake in its company to private equity giant Bain Capital LLC. The investment will help Toms expand its distribution in Europe, Asia and in the United States, including increasing its store count from its current two locations.

The investment reportedly values Toms at about $625 million, including debt. Blake Mycoskie, who founded Toms in 2006, will retain a 50% stake and remain at the helm.

New York -- QSR sandwichchain Jersey Mike’s signed leases for two locations in Bergen County, New Jersey. Winick Realty Group NJ’s Gary Krauss acted as the brand’s exclusive broker in both transactions as Jersey Mike’s continues its aggressive expansion within its home state.

The sandwich shop leased 1,736 sq. ft. at 557 North Franklin Turnpike in Ramsey, New Jersey. The site, which formerly housed a TCBY, is expected to open by early September.

New York -- As analysts begin to speculate about the acquisition scenarios for Family Dollar – whether by Dollar Tree or Dollar General – one thing is clear: some store closures will occur.

According to a report by Wall Street Journal Online, a Dollar General takeover would close more stores than if Dollar Tree wins the bid. Dollar General said it is prepared to divest up to 700 of the combined company’s approximate 19,600 stores to satisfy antitrust regulators.