News

NEW YORK — The International Licensing Industry Merchandisers' Association has named Maura Regan, SVP, general manager for global consumer products at Sesame Workshop, chairperson of the board.  She had previously served as vice chairperson.

The board also announced the following changes:
 

• Rick Van Brimmer, director trademark and licensing services for The Ohio State University, was elected as LIMA’s vice chairman.  He formerly was a member of LIMA’s board.

By Michael Moores, [email protected]

MINNEAPOLIS — Target has donated $30,000 in monetary support and product to assist with Colorado wildfire relief efforts. A $17,500 cash donation was distributed among several American Red Cross chapters in Colorado in addition to $5,000 in product donations for essentials such as water and food. A separate donation of $7,500 in gift cards was given to other nonprofit organizations in the affected areas.

MATTHEWS, N.C. — Dollar stores continue to thrive in this consumer-conscious economy, and Family Dollar is no exception.

The dollar store chain reported a total sales increase of 9.6% to $2.36 billion for the third quarter, compared with $2.15 billion for the same period last year. Same-store sales rose 5%, helped by increased customer traffic and strong performances in the seasonal, electronics and consumables categories.

SAN DIEGO — Genius Brands International has named Sunscape Eyewear as an eyewear licensee for its Baby Genius brand.

The two-year agreement grants Sunscape rights to manufacture and distribute worldwide Baby Genius-themed eyewear for boys and girls ages 0 to 4 years featuring Baby Genius characters. Product categories include sunglasses, eyewear and eyewear accessories such as croakies and cases.

NEW YORK — With the Nordstrom name often associated with high fashion, it is surprising that the retailer does not already have a flagship in New York City. In 2018, however, that will all change when the first full-line Nordstrom's store opens in the Columbus Circle area of Manahttan.

The store is being built by Extell Development Company and will occupy 285,000 square feet.

Matthews, N.C. -- Family Dollar Stores Inc. reported Thursday that profit for the quarter ended May 26 rose 12.1% to $124.5 million, compared with $111.1 million in the year-ago period.

Sales increased 9.6% to $2.36 billion, just missing Wall Street’s forecasts of $2.37 billion in sales. Same-store sales climbed 5%.
   

The nation’s convenience stores continued to grow last year creating a peculiar blend of competitive challenges and sales opportunities for Sam’s Club.