News

Verizon stresses supply chain IT security
New York – When it comes to supply chain security, most retailers are diligent about things like locking up warehouses and vehicles. But when it comes to securing technology used to manage supply chain operations, retailer diligence often trails off.
Kohl's donates $100K for flood relief
Kohl’s is joining Walmart and other retailers in stepping up to help with flood relief efforts in Texas and Oklahoma.

Kohl’s has announced it will be donating $100,000 to the American Red Cross, which is delivering much-needed emergency supplies and services in the impacted areas. In addition to a financial contribution, Kohl’s encourages its associates to volunteer in support of cleanup efforts through its Associates in Action volunteer program.

Wal-Mart to enact some raises in July

Bentonville, Ark. – Wal-Mart Stores Inc. is reportedly raising wages for some employees in specialized departments beginning in July. According to the Associated Press, managers of more complicated departments like automotive and electronics will have their pay range increased to $13 - $24.70 per hour, from $10.30 - $20.09 per hour.
Walmart Supplier News Q2 2015

Please click on the image for the latest edition of WSN.
Who is the Victim in Petty Theft?

The answer to the questions above may not be as obvious as one would think. Retailers not only suffer losses in the billions, but they also must spend millions in an effort to thwart this behavior. In the past, retailers could rely on the criminal justice system, but today’s limited resources have left retailers with only civil demand laws which are currently being scrutinized.
Lands' End to offer curated collections

As more retailers look to offer curated merchandise to shoppers, Lands' End has launched a new microsite allowing customers to shop products selected by "guest editors".
Justice still dragging down sales at Ascena

The struggling Justice brand and the West Coast port dispute held back Ascena Retail Group Inc. in the third quarter as the company awaits its acquisition of Ann Inc. to close later in 2015.
Office Depot introduces Apple Watch app

Boca Raton, Fla. - Office Depot Inc. is launching a new free Office Depot app for Apple Watch. Features include: voice-activated search for products, an ink and toner finder, and an Office Depot and OfficeMax retail store locator.

The new app also provides voice-activated product search, ink level checks of Wifi-enabled HP computers, and daily deals.
Cuban ballet coming to Saks windows in NYC

Saks Fifth Avenue will be soaring to new heights with an unprecedented promotional event at its flagship store in New York City this month.

Sixteen dancers from the Sarasota Cuban Ballet School in Florida will be performing live in the windows of the store on Fifth Avenue on June 6 and June 7.
Dollar General beats Q1 profits, misses sales; on track to open 730 stores

Goodlettsville, Tenn. – Dollar General Corp. beat Wall Street expectations for profit but missed on sales in the first quarter of fiscal 2015. Net income totaled $253 million, up 14% from $222 million the same period the prior year.

Higher initial inventory markups, improved inventory shrink rate and lower transportation costs helped boost net income. Net sales increased 9% to $4.92 billion, compared to $4.52 billion. Same-store sales increased 3.7%, resulting from increases in both customer traffic and average transaction amount.