News

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.
Report: Amazon’s Elements brand offers invite-only vitamins
Amazon is once again expanding its commitment to private label. The online giant’s Elements line, which was originally launched as a baby products line, quietly introduced a vitamins and supplements category on Feb. 21 — the first addition to the Elements brand in years, according to TechCrunch.

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.
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.
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.
Penney adds cybersecurity expert to board

J.C. Penney Company has added a former senior advisor to the director of the U.S. National Security Agency (NSA), to its board of directors. Debora Plunkett is joining the Penney board. Possessing extensive experience in cybersecurity, information assurance and innovation in information security, Plunkett has a deep understanding of the data-driven and interconnected world of today, the retailer said.
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.
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.
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.
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.