News

CVS Health Foundation grants to increase health access exceed goals, generate results
As part of a multi-year, $5 million commitment to increase access to health care in communities nationwide, the CVS Health Foundation on Tuesday released new data from programs supported through partnerships with the National Association of Free & Charitable Clinics and the National Association of Community Health Centers.

The Foundation also announced $1.5 million in new grants distributed to 46 community health centers and free clinics for 2016.
Court rules Puerto Rico can’t gouge Walmart
A court ruling struck down a provision adopted by Puerto Rico last year that tripled the tax revenue the debt-laden island extracted from Walmart, Reuters reported. [Reuters]

CityCenter enters into agreement to sell The Shops at Crystals in Las Vegas

Las Vegas -- CityCenter Holding -- a venture between MGM Resorts International and Infinity World Development Corp. -- announced that it has entered into an agreement with a venture led by Invesco Real Estate and Simon Property Group to acquire The Shops at Crystals in Las Vegas, for a purchase price of approximately $1.1 billion.
Destination Maternity gives turnaround update; loses CFO

Destination Maternity says its turnaround efforts are working to drive long-term growth despite a decrease in same-store sales during the fourth quarter.

The company said that for the fourth quarter ended Jan. 30, same-store sales decreased 3.5%. The retailer's net loss improved to $3.1 million compared to a net loss of $17 million in the prior year quarter. Net sales were $118.3 million, compared with $121.2 million for the comparable three month in 2015.
Baker Katz breaks ground on redevelopment totaling 33,000 sq. ft.

Atascocita, Texas -- Baker Katz, an X Team International partner and full-service commercial real estate brokerage firm specializing in retail tenant representation, investment sales, and project development and leasing, announced that it has broken ground on the redevelopment of two buildings totaling 33,000 sq. ft. on 4.5 acres of land located Atascocita, Texas.
Dunkin’ Brands exec appointments include digital, supply chain VPs

Dunkin' Brands Group Inc., the parent company of Dunkin' Donuts and Baskin-Robbins, has promoted five new VPs to its management team.

Sherrill Kaplan was promoted to VP, digital marketing & innovation for Dunkin' Donuts U.S. Kaplan joined Dunkin' Brands nearly five years ago and has played a lead role in the development and execution of the retailer’s digital strategy and the DD Perks rewards program.
Tech Bytes: Three Reasons Retailers Should Launch Their Own Social Platforms

Social retailing is nothing new, but more retailers are starting to experiment with launching their own proprietary social media offerings.
Sears Holdings names new chief administrative officer

Sears Holdings has named an expert in digital transformation to fill the newly created role of chief administrative officer.

The company has named James P. Andrew to fill the new position, which will be responsible for the company's corporate support functions, including financial planning and analysis, business finance, procurement, legal, and human resources.
Instacart in big expansion

Online delivery service Instacart is launching its first expansion of 2016 – and it’s a big one.

Instacart is now offering deliveries in as little as one hour from Whole Foods Market, Gelson’s Market, Stater Bros. Markets, Ralphs, Smart & Final, Costco (no membership needed), Petco, and H Mart to residents of Orange County, California. Whole Foods will offer delivery via Instacart at prices that are the same as shoppers find in-stores.
Study: Shoppers blame retailers for security breaches

When it comes to security breaches, consumers are clear about who they hold responsible.

According to a new study from retail services provider Interactions, “Security Hacks and the Lasting Impact on Retailers,” 75% of consumers believe that keeping shopper information safe is the retailer’s responsibility.