News

Off-pricer to open 90 stores in 2017
Ross Stores continues to maintain an aggressive store expansion strategy. The retailer recently opened 23 Ross Dress for Less stores and five dd's Discounts stores across 15 different states in February and March. The new locations are part of the company's plans to add approximately 70 Ross stores and 20 dd's locations during 2017.
Four Keys to Cyber Security: Protecting restaurants and retailers from data breaches
Restaurants and retailers around the country continue to be plagued with the threat of cyber-attacks. Target, Eddie Bauer, Walmart, Wendy's, O'Charley's, are just a few of the major brands recently affected by data breaches, leaving millions of consumers' credit card information at risk.

Rural lifestyle chain promotes exec to finance chief

Coinciding with its management transition plan announced last summer, Tractor Supply Co. appointed Kurt Barton to senior VP, CFO and treasurer. Barton succeeds Anthony Crudele, who retired after serving as CFO for the past 11 years. Crudele and Barton have worked together over the last seven months to ensure a smooth transition of all responsibilities, according to the retailer.
Discounter in rapid EAS rollout

No retailer is immune to theft — even discounters. That’s why Dollar General has completed a speedy installation of an electronic article surveillance (EAS) solution from Checkpoint Systems chainwide. The discounter began its journey by testing EAS pedestals and deactivation systems in a limited number of stores to determine the benefits of how visible EAS tagging deters shoplifting and protects high-theft inventory.
Report: Aldi launches online in China

Aldi is ready to introduce its brand to price-sensitive Chinese shoppers. The German discount supermarket chain plans to start selling online in China this month, a move that will expose Chinese consumers to a selection of German wine, snacks and breakfast products, Reuters reported.
Big Lots holds steady; store of the future coming

Big Lots on Friday posted an unexpected decline in total revenue in its fourth quarter as a reduced store count cut into its sales. But the chain’s earnings topped the Street. The close-out retailer also boosted its dividend and initiated a new share buyback program.
Yeti, Austin

A cool store from a cooler (literally) and drinkwear company, Yeti’s first physical outpost celebrates the fast-growing brand, which is known for standing up to the harshest conditions.
Update on Amazon’s drive-through grocery store concept

Amazon’s drive-through grocery store in Seattle is beginning to come more into view. USA Today reported that Amazon has applied for a liquor license for the store, which the Internet giant has yet to comment on.
Pizza Hut’s newest ordering device: old-school high tops

There’s a new sneaker on the scene that promises to make a slam dunk — albeit not on the basketball court. Called “Pie Tops,” Pizza Hut’s new white-and-red trimmed kicks are more than a functional sneaker. Featuring geolocation technology that links to an app (separate from the chain’s mobile app), users can order a large two-topping pizza just by pressing a button embedded in the shoe’s tongue, according to Pizza Hut’s new 30-second commercial featuring retired NBA player, Grant Hill.
Saks Off 5th continues Canadian expansion

Saks Fifth Avenue is adding to its store fleet up north. On Thursday, March 9, Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th will open two new locations in the greater Toronto area, “This month marks our one year anniversary of entering the Canadian market, and we’re excited to continue our Canadian expansion with two new stores in the GTA,” said Jonathan Greller, president, Saks Off 5th and Gilt.
Walgreens names new CIO

Walgreens Boots Alliance had named a successor to chief information officer Abhi Dhar, who announced in February his intent to resign in order to pursue an entrepreneurial venture. The company has tapped Steve Turner, who currently serves as Walgreens VP service delivery and infrastructure, as VP and chief information officer, effective April 1.
Wet Seal brand to be revived?

Wet Seal was acquired at a bankruptcy auction by a firm that plans to rebuild the brand. Gordon Brothers announced it is acquiring the Wet Seal brand and its related intellectual property. The transaction is pending final court approval. The acquisition includes the other brands within the Wet Seal portfolio, including Arden B, Blink, Chic Boutique and several others.