News

In the wake of acquiring Houston-based RediClinic, Rite Aid reported revenues of $6.6 billion for the fourth quarter ended March 1, resulting from a 2.2% lift primarily attributed to an increase in pharmacy same-store sales.

For the full year, Rite Aid reported $25.5 billion in revenues, up 0.5%.

Stein Mart said that its March sales were unfavorably impacted by the shift of pre-Easter selling from March to April this year, as well as cooler-than-normal temperatures in many parts of the country early in the month.

Stein Mart’s total sales for the five-week period ended April 5 were $136.3 million, compared to total sales of $135.4 million for the prior-year period. Comparable store sales increased 0.9%.

Patrick Byrne has relinquished his role as chairman of Overstock.com and Stormy Simon was named president of the online discount retailer.

Family Dollar plans to close 370 underperforming stores, cut jobs and lower prices on 1,000 basic items following a disappointing second quarter, which was adversely affected by the extra week in last year's quarter, severe weather, holiday promotions and a challenging consumer environment.

The company is also slowing its new store growth beginning in fiscal 2015 to bolster its return on investment. It now anticipates opening 350 to 400 new stores as opposed to approximately 525 stores in 2014.
 

Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores is teaming with the Cleveland Cavaliers for an unconventional promotion. The craft retailer will be distributing capes to fans at the second annual Superhero Night at the Cavs vs. Boston Celtics game Saturday, April 12 at 7:30 p.m. at Quicken Loans Arena.

Dole is bolstering its chopped salad line with two new All Natural Chopped Salad Kits. Dole All Natural Chopped Sunflower Crunch Salad Kit and Dole All Natural Chopped Sesame Asian Salad Kit are available at supermarkets across the country.

Major expansions at several U.S. distribution facilities in California and Kentucky increase UPS’ distribution capacity by roughly 460,000 square feet.

The largest expansion came at the UPS facility in the southern California town of Mira Loma near the Los Angeles Ontario Airport. The regional air hub gained 309,000 square feet of space to enhance its ability to allow retail and manufacturing customers to move shipment originating from Asia throughout the U.S. due to its proximity to transcontinental rail connection and major highways.

Whole Foods Market might as well declare bankruptcy now judging from widespread media coverage of Walmart’s decision to sell roughly 100 organic dry grocery items under the Wild Oats brand.

Sam’s Club is breaking new ground in the world of health screenings this weekend with the company’s first ever oral health screening.

To reinforce the basics of a good oral routine and general wellness, Sam’s Club is hosting free oral care and vital health screenings on Saturday, April 12 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at its 589 clubs which contain a pharmacy. The event features tests valued at up to $100 including a dental tablet test for plaque and tests for glucose levels, total cholesterol, blood pressure, body mass index and vision.

The newest jewel in Amazon’s content crown is leading digital comics provider comiXology.

Amazon reached an agreement to acquire comiXology for an undisclosed sum. The company was founded in 2007 offers an extensive library of digital comic book content from more than 75 top publishers as well as top independent creators. According to Amazon, comiXology revolutionized the digital comics reading experience with its immersive Guided View technology.