News

Tuesday Morning shrinks net loss in Q4
Dallas — Tuesday Morning reduced net loss to $4.2 million in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2015 from $7.4 million in the same period a year earlier. Reduced selling, general and administrative (SG&A) expenses helped the retailer cut its loss.

Net sales increased 0.2% to $213 from $212.6 million, impacted by the net closure of 41 stores in the current fiscal year. Same-store sales increased 3.6%, with negative impact from a reduced clearance program.
No home run for Hibbett Sports in Q2
Hibbett Sports Inc. says a shift in back-to-school tax-free weekends was to blame for softness in same store sales in the second quarter.

The sporting goods retailer says net sales for the 13-week period ended Aug. 1 increased 2.8% to $199.3 million compared with $193.9 million for the 13-week period ended Aug. 2, 2014. Same store sales decreased 1.1%. Net income was $7 million compared with $8.4 million for the 13-week period ended Aug. 2, 2014. Earnings per diluted share totaled 28 cents, compared with 32 cents for the 13-week period ended Aug. 2, 2014.

American Eagle marketing head steps down

Pittsburgh — Michael Leedy, chief marketing officer of American Eagle Outfitters Inc., will step down from his position effective Sept. 15, 2015. The company has an active search for a successor underway.

Leedy has committed to serve in an advisory role if needed to ensure a smooth transition. American Eagle did not comment on the reason for Leedy’s departure, and his LinkedIn profile still indicates he works there.
Ross Stores is another off-price winner

On the heels of another successful quarter from off-price rival TJX, Ross Stores Inc. also reported a spike in same store sales for the second quarter.

For the second quarter ended Aug. 1, Ross Stores says net earnings rose 8% to $259 million from $240 million the same quarter the prior fiscal year. Sales rose 9% to $2.97 billion from $2.73 billion, with same-store sales up 4%
Lands’ End launches omnichannel fall campaign

Dodgeville, Wis. — Lands’ End has announced a new omnichannel fall marketing campaign which includes a catalog strategy, complementary digital initiatives and an overall brand advertising campaign.

Lands’ End will kick off the new strategy with the introduction of different initiatives including two new lifestyle campaigns, Quality.Time and A Closer Look at the Land. Each will be featured online and in catalog format.
Gap to test 'fast fashion' in some stores

With another difficult fiscal quarter under its belt, the CEO of Gap Inc. says the retailer will begin testing fast fashion merchandise in select stores.
Completed merger creates third-largest U.S. specialty retailer

Mahwah, N.J. — Ann Inc. is no more.

Ascena Retail Group Inc. has completed its acquisition of Ann Inc., formerly called Ann Taylor. Shares of Ann Inc. will be delisted from the NYSE and trading ceased at the close of business on Friday, August 21st.
Toys"R"Us takes lemonade stand fundraising to new level

Toys“R”Us has collected a sizable amount of money for a cause near and dear to the hearts of toy-loving kids and parents worldwide -- mostly thanks to an innovative social media campaign.

The retailer says it raised $2.2 million during its fifth annual nationwide fundraising and awareness campaign benefiting Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF), a nonprofit organization dedicated to finding a cure for pediatric cancer.
Nordstrom enters haute couture space

Seattle — Nordstrom Inc. is entering the haute couture space with the introduction of SPACE, a new shop curated by Olivia Kim, director of creative projects. SPACE will offer products from emerging and advanced designers.
Sam's Club gets social with small business shoppers

Sam’s Club is taking its efforts to woo small business customers to social media.

The retailer is launching #SmallBizHelp, an interactive social media campaign that offers expert advice on starting and running a business.