News

EDISON, N.J. — Bestselling author and daytime host Rachael Ray has launched a new line of seasoning grinders.

Rachael Ray Seasoning Grinders are available in 10 varieties in generous-sized bottles, ranging from single ingredients such as Pink Himalyan Salt to blends of nine to 12 spices, including Rockin’ Rainbow Peppercorn Blend, 24/7 Seasoning (everyday/all-purpose), Spice-it-Up Chili Seasoning, Buon Appetito Italian Seasoning, Bump Up Your Burger Seasoning, Seafood Seasoning, and Perfect Poultry Seasoning. 

Wilsonart International, a maker of laminate flooring, countertops and sinks, has named Kristen Manos as its new president. She replaces Bill Gaetano, who announced his retirement late last year. DiGaetano has been president of Wilsonart since 2005 and is a 33-year veteran of the Temple, Texas, company. 

BOCA RATON, Fla. — Office Depot is hoping to appeal to working women with a new desk accessories line. The See Jane Work line includes mix-and-match organizational products starting at just $3.99.

PLEASANTON, Calif. — Safeway is launching a first-of-its kind competition that could land one chef with a job with the Safeway Culinary Kitchens and his or recipe included in the Open Nature Skillet Meal line. The competition will culminate in a final cook-off at the Safeway Culinary Kitchens in Pleasanton, Calif., where chefs will cook their original, delicious and nutritious skillet meals.

Washington, D.C. -- The monthly Global Port Tracker report, released Wednesday by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates, said that import cargo volume at the nation’s major retail container ports is expected to be down 6.8% in February from the same month a year ago. However, volumes should show year-over-year increases through most of the remaining first half of 2012.

SEATTLE — A Tuesday report by the Seattle Times said that Eddie Bauer chief Neil Fiske, who joined the retailer in 2007 and led it through bankruptcy, will leave his post effective March 2.

The company has not given a reason for Fiske’s sudden departure. David Chamberlain, executive chairman, will serve as interim CEO until a permanent replacement is named. Fiske will remain with the company as a consultant to ensure a smooth transition.

NEW YORK — Gap Inc. is turning to the blogosphere for its new "Be Bright" global marketing campaign. The company announced that it has partnered with six fashion and lifestyle blogs to promote its spring collection.

New Albany, Ohio -- Margin squeezes and flagging same-store sales hurt Abercrombie & Fitch Co.’s fourth quarter profit dropped nearly 80% drop, to $19.6 million from $92.6 million a year earlier, amid margin squeezes and flat same-store sales.