Duckwall-ALCO hires new head merchant

ABILENE, Kan. Duckwall-ALCO Stores announced today that Ronald Mapp will join the company as senior vp of merchandising effective later this month. He will be responsible for all merchandise functions and will report to Bruce Dale, president and ceo.

Ron comes to the company with over 30 years of specialty store experience, including executive positions at Michaels Stores and Jo-Ann Stores over the last 19 years.

``Ron is an outstanding merchant, but more importantly, he is an astute businessman,'' said Dale. ``He understands the processes and will be able to leverage our new technology to continue the positive changes in our merchandising strategy. Additionally, he will bring further depth to our senior management team. We are delighted to have him join our company.''