Logistics

There’s been a shakeup at Bon-Ton Stores.   The department store retailer announced that Kathryn Bufano, president and CEO, will leave the company when her contract expires on August 25. She will be succeeded by William Tracy, currently the retailer’s COO. He will be Bon-Ton’s fourth chief executive since 2012.   

The free shipping wars seem to be heating up again.   In a posting on its website, Amazon said it has lowered its free shipping minimum for non-Prime members on eligible items to $25. Merchandise will be delivered in five to eight business days.   It’s the second time this year that Amazon has made it easier for shoppers to qualify for free shipping. In February, the online giant reduced its minimum order amount from $49 to $35.   

Things may not be bad as they first looked for Gander Mountain Company.   Although there is a banner on the bankrupt company’s website announcing that all of its stores are going out of business, its new owner says that’s not exactly the case.  

Target is planning to test a next-day delivery of essentials ordered online in the Minneapolis area.   Called Target Restock, the service will pilot this summer in the discounter’s hometown. Once the pilot is live, shoppers who have a Target REDcard will be eligible to visit a dedicated online experience to access thousands of household essentials.  

Gymboree Corp. is planning a significant reduction in its store fleet.   The retailer is looking to close hundreds of stores part of a restructuring under bankruptcy court protection, The Wall Street Journal reported. The final number of stores, however, has yet to be determined.  

Amazon is making new moves to support its expanding business in India.   Specifically, the online giant is adding seven new warehouses — a move that will provide employment to about 4,000 people, according to The Times of India.   Further, the company is planning to have 41 warehouses or fulfillment centers open by the end of June this year, the report said.  

Controlling physical assets — and adhering to compliance requirements — can become daunting as chains grow.   To streamline the process, Sephora is adding lease management software from Accurent. Specifically, the software will enable the beauty giant to manage leases for more than 400 locations in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico.  

The largest U.S. chain dedicated to recreational vehicles and a group of liquidations have come together to thrown a lifeline of sorts to outdoor retailer Gander Mountain.