Data & Analytics

Washington, D.C. -- The National Retail Federation calculated retail industry job gains at 15,200 in September, and 289,000 jobs year-over-year, a 2.4% increase over the same month last year and 2.0% higher than total private sector jobs over the past year.

More stores will be open on Thanksgiving, which is also the first full day of Hanukkah

Those who fail to plan, plan to fail. It's hard to believe that September is already here — time for retailers to attend to the holiday shopping season. We at ShopperTrak recommend the following ways to prepare for the coming busy months.

> Maximize opportunities during the shorter selling season. 

Pritzker Group Venture Capital, formerly New World Ventures, has invested $45 million in Chicago-based SMS Assist, a leading mobile and cloud-based facilities maintenance technology company.  
 

New York -- The majority of companies will be increasing their budget for mobile marketing over the coming year, according to research published by Econsultancy and BuyDesire. Seven out of every 10 companies have stated that they will spend more on mobile marketing in the next 12 months, as they seek to keep up with the mobile revolution.

Fort Worth, Texas - RadioShack Corporation reported a net loss of $112 million during the third quarter of fiscal 2013, compared to a net loss of $47 million in the year-ago period. It was the retailer’s seventh straight quarter posting a net loss. The company also named Paul Rutenis, formerly senior VP, general merchandising manager for the home division of J.C. Penney Company, as its new chief merchant.

Target is enlisting Jonna Mendez, a former CIA officer, who will serve as a “Kids’ Gift Detective.” Inspired by her years of CIA experience, Mendez will offer online tips and techniques via a video series at ABullseyeView.com where she works with popular mom bloggers.
 
In addition, Target will offer a dedicated kids’ gifts page on its website and will launch a digital gift catalog in early November.
 

Park City Group, a leading consumer goods supply chain technology provider, has appointed Gary Rocheleau as a senior adviser.  

Rocheleau, who has more than 40 years of experience, will be responsible for developing business solutions, consulting and expanding efforts in the retail channel.

Salt Lake City – Supply chain technology vendor Park City Group has named Gary Rocheleau, a 40-year retail industry veteran who most recently served as VP of retail marketing execution for Safeway subsidiary Vons Pavilions, as senior advisor.

Other previous roles Rocheleau has held include president of Grocery Works, Safeway’s home shopping and delivery company. He began his career with Lucky Stores, Inc., where he spent nearly 23 years and his last position was VP of grocery.