News

NEW YORK — According to survey results by Deloitte, 94% of Americans indicate they will remain cautious and keep their spending for food, beverage and household goods at its current level, despite an improving economy.

Deloitte's 2013 American Pantry Study found that 92% of Americans said they have become more resourceful, and 86% say they are getting more precise in what they buy — attitudes that have remained consistent in the three years Deloitte has conducted the study, and across income levels.

SAN FRANCISCO — Bed, Bath & Beyond will test the fitness waters in April and offer Fitmark bags at select California locations to see how well the high-end travel bags fare with customers. 

Bed, Bath & Beyond customers can find the bags in an entirely new category for the store, aimed at fitness enthusiasts.

HUDSON, Ohio — Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores has added The Ohio State University to its assortment of exclusively licensed collegiate fabrics.

“We are thrilled to offer fans of The Ohio State University this exclusive-to-Jo-Ann line of fleece and cotton fabrics,” said Susan Starcher, buyer of fleece, warm and licensed fabric for Jo-Ann. “Our customers love to show their school spirit, and no other retailer offers a more diverse selection of college and university fabrics than Jo-Ann.”

Minneapolis -- Target Corp. said Tuesday it will miss its first-quarter profit outlook as seasonal and weather-sensitive items underperformed.
 
The retailer also said it now expects same-store sales to be flat in the quarter.

Target’s quarterly results are slated to be reported on May 22.

BURLINGTON, Mass. — Crabtree & Evelyn, an international luxury brand known for its bath, body and home fragrance products, turned to Demandware to re-launch its U.S. e-commerce site, crabtree-evelyn.com. 

L’Oréal USA has named former Estée Lauder executive Angela Bennett as VP of La Roche-Posay. 

Bennett will be charged with expanding the global skincare brand’s national retail distribution with a focus on suncare and acne consumers as well as digital programs while increasing La Roche-Posay’s support of its partnering dermatologists and retailers. 

True Value president and CEO Lyle Heidemann plans to retire May 31.

John Hartmann has been appointed as the company’s new president and CEO, following the retirement of Heidemann. Heidemann will continue to serve True Value through the end of 2013 as an adviser.

HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill. — Kmart and Shop Your Way are teaming up with New York Times bestselling author Sandra Lee to support the Share Our Strength Bake Sale for No Kid Hungry campaign. The national fundraising initiative encourages people to host bake sales in their communities to help end childhood hunger in the United States.