News

7-Eleven waives franchise fee for select corporate stores
Dallas - Between now and June 30, 7-Eleven Inc. will waive the franchise fee on a select number of its U.S. stores available for franchise, a savings of up to $80,000. The more than 200 available stores are located in cities across the country.

During the last four years 7-Eleven has grown its store base by more than 1,300 units. Now that a 7-Eleven customer base has been established at these locations, the company is looking to transition these stores to franchise operations.
Obama urges public-private cooperation on cybersecurity
Describing cyberspace as the new "wild, wild West," President Barack Obama on Friday said that while everyone expects the government to be the sheriff, the private sector must do more to stop cyberattacks.

He also called for the passage of a single national standard requiring consumers to be notified within 30 days if their financial or personal data is stolen.

Starbucks launching subscription delivery service of high-end coffees

Seattle -- Starbucks Coffee Company is taking its coffee to an entirely new level as it continues to target consumers who are willing to pay for super-premium brews. The company said Tuesday it will offer online customers subscription delivery of its small-lot coffees.
Upscale retailers make landfall in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is home to many retailers’ most productive units and now Saks and Nordstrom are looking to get in on the action when they open their first locations next month in the island’s new Mall of San Juan.

The mall is set to open March 26, two and a half years after breaking ground, and will contain a 138,000-sq.-ft. Nordstrom and a 100,000-sq.-ft. Saks. The property also includes a hotel and a casino.
Going direct: VF shows retailers how to grow

After opening 75 stores in the fourth quarter and with expectations for 150 units this year brand powerhouse VF Corporation has emerged as one of the nation’s fastest growing retailers.

VF is best known for brands such as The North Face, Vans, Timberland, Wrangler, Lee and Nautica that are sold through other retailers. However, rapid store expansion in recent years has seen the direct-to-consumer business steadily account for a larger percentage of sales.
Wegman’s store puts own unique sizzle to Valentine’s Day promo

New York -- There’s a reason why shoppers love Wegman’s. A Valentine’s Day promotion spotted Friday, in a Buffalo-area store, featuring twin ribeye steaks, packaged ready-for-the-flame in a disposable, heart-shaped broiler pan is one small example as to why.
The Customer Service Advantage: Innovative Learning Solutions

By Michelle A. Thompson, Director, Learning, Home Depot University

How do you mold a large workforce with a significant part-time segment into experts in home improvement so customers get the answers they need every time they walk in the doors of The Home Depot?

It requires committed associates, strong leaders, and innovative learning solutions.
Williams-Sonoma toasts culinary Team USA

Williams-Sonoma is leveraging the brand equity of a renowned culinary competition, not to mention famed celebrity chef Thomas Keller, to attract more foodies to its stores.

The retailer has been hosting events at stores across the country celebrating Team USA after its medal win at the prestigious Bocuse d’Or International Culinary Competition in January.
Groupon reports strong holiday sales

Despite reporting a boost in fourth-quarter profits, Groupon says the impact of foreign exchange rates will affect first-quarter performance.

The e-commerce company posted fourth-quarter profit of 6 cents per share, up from 4 cents a share a year earlier. Revenue increased 20 percent to $925 million from $768 million.
Food Lion recognizes top talent

Rhonda Mauldin was selected from more than 1,100 Food Lion store managers for the retailer’s highest honor.

Mauldin, who is the store manager of the Food Lion located at 1004 W. Georgia Road in Simpsonville, S.C., is Food Lion’s 2014 Store Manager of the Year.