News

The world’s largest social network is testing new e-commerce eatures, including a dedicated shopping section, Re/code reported. Facebook’s push comes as other social sites, including Twitter, are exploring social shopping.

Staples and Office Depot have agreed to a Federal Trade Commission decision to extend the review period for a possible $6.3 billion merger of the two companies.

The companies announced Monday that the FTC has agreed to issue its decision regarding this transaction by Dec. 8.

If you were to read an article about leaders in savvy energy and sustainability management programs and initiatives, who do you think that would be? Government? Manufacturing? Actually, it’s the retail industry, which has been a leader in energy efficiency investments since 2008.

Social commerce is finally here.

Various retailers and social media platforms have been experimenting with letting consumers make purchases directly from social networks for some time. But in the past few weeks a flurry of new and expanded social commerce options have been introduced.

Restoration Hardware has opened a new format that redefines the retail experience and has CEO Gary Friedman calling it the company’s finest work to date.

The retailer says its new brand,  RH Modern, aims to offer one of the most fully-integrated assortments of modern furnishings, lighting and décor under one brand in the world. The multi-channel business  debuts with its own 540-page magazine-catalog hybrid, a dedicated website, and a significant retail presence, including a standalone RH Modern store.

Leading off price retailer Ross Dress for Less has made good on its 2015 growth plans and reaffirmed its long-range targets for existing and newer formats.

On Monday, the company announced the opening of 19 Ross stores and seven dd’s Discounts stores across 14 different states in September and October. The new locations complete the retailer’s  2015 expansion plans to add a total of 90 stores during the year.

Amazon.com now allows sellers to promote products with keyword targeted ads and cloud-based e-commerce solutions provider ChannelAdvisor is ready to help sellers take advantage of the sponsored products feature.

ChannelAdvisor Corp. announced its support Monday for Amazon’s Advertising API (application programming interface), becoming the first e-commerce solution provider to offer this support.

Whole Foods Market has made a minority investment in a fast-growing California restaurant chain, according to Nation's Restaurant News.

As part of the deal, Whole Foods plans to test the opening of Mendocino Farms outlets in select market locations, according to the publication.

The Oakland Raiders professional football team needs to communicate more than plays and formations.

The Raiders operate 12 Raider Image retail stores throughout California, an online store and a corresponding fulfillment center. Effective voice and data communications are critical for streamlined coordination and ideal performance in these locations.

French home décor and lifestyle retailer Madura expands its global presence with a flagship in New York City’s Flatiron neighborhood.

The three-story, 3,000-sq.-ft. store features two 20-ft. walls that display the company’s signature decorative pillows, which come in a host of colors, designs and fabrications. Shoppers can browse through available pillow covers at an interactive station, the “pillow bar,” on the first floor.