News

Sears Canada president leaving job
Sears Canada is losing another top executive who has been on the job for less than a year. The retailer announced that Carrie Kirkman is leaving her role as president and chief merchant to transition to an “advisory role.” In a statement, the company said Kirkman had been “brought aboard to focus on strategic brand partner development,” and that new brands will debut this fall. Kirkman will reportedly leave her post after July 30.
RILA taps Capitol Hill veteran to lead government affairs
The Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) has named Even Armstrong as VP of government affairs, effective Aug. 1. Armstrong will lead advocacy efforts related to workforce and employment issues before Congress and federal agencies, including the Department of Labor (DOL), the EEOC and NLRB.

Dollar General in 41-store acquisition

Dollar General has purchased 41 former Walmart Express locations across 11 states in a move designed to allow the discounter to expand its fresh meat and produce offerings. Dollar General said it expects to relocate 40 existing Dollar General stores into the purchased sites by October 2016. It will also enter one new market. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
Virtual reality to influence lease signings?

While a new report from CBRE extols the traffic-building virtues of Pokemon GO for retail locations designated as “gyms” or “stops,” it concludes that virtual and augmented reality will have a more immediate impact on lease-signings than product purchases.
Avison Young completes $14.4 million Georgia sale

Avison Young announced completion of the sale of Shoppes at Vickery Village, a 77,794sq.-ft., 11-building center in Cumming, Georgia. The real estate services firm reports that the purchase price was 20% more than the seller paid for the property only 18 months ago.
NRF ups retail sales forecast

Retailers should be cheered by the latest forecast from the National Retail Federation. With increases in consumer spending expected to remain solid during the remainder of the year, the NRF on Tuesday upped its forecast for retail sales in 2016 to 3.4%, from the 3.1% forecast earlier. Online and other non-store sales, which are included in the overall figure, are expected to increase 7% to 10% year-over-year rather than the 6% to 9% forecast earlier.
How NOT to sell online to British shoppers

Online retailers who hope to sell their goods to British consumers should take heed when it comes to listing the price. A survey by online translation agency revealed that 80% of the British consumer public refuses to buy from websites that do not post their prices in British pounds.
Forget ‘Art or Science.’ Workforce Management is About Profit

While consultants have argued for decades that workforce management (WFM) is a mixture of art and science, it is neither. It comes down to profit and applying practical – not over-engineered – workforce management practices that enable higher performing retail operations.
Under Armour to open big flagship in iconic building on Fifth Avenue

Under Armour on Tuesday reported a drop in profit for the second quarter, related to the closing of The Sports Authority. The athletic wear brand also revealed plans to plant its banner on prime real estate in Manhattan.
Retailers amping up store experience with bars, restaurants

More and more retailers are looking to make their stores more than just destinations to shop. In a trend that is gaining increased momentum, retailers across the board are adding bars and eateries to their stores, USA Today reported.