News

HONG KONG — TV manufacturer TCL Multimedia Technology Holdings has entered into an agreement with Ikea for the development of its innovative concept of complete TV solutions that includes TV, sound system and furniture.

According to a TCL press release, the partnership will enable Ikea to offer customers designated electronic products integrated into furniture that are operated by only one remote controller, boasting the seamless blend of advanced technology and creative interior design.

BUFFALO GROVE, Ill. — Michaels Stores has become more energy-efficient, thanks to its rollout of a new series of systems from Siemens. The additional savings created by the new advanced-capability deployments are expected to bring total energy-related savings to more than 30%.

HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill. — In honor of Earth Day, Sears Holdings is currently offering several discounts and product promotions designed to help customers improve their environmental performance. These include up to 25% off all Energy Star qualified appliances at Sears plus up to 25% off all dryers plus extra 5% off all appliances with your Sears card through April 19.

Beth McGuire a senior group manager at Target was among a group of 25 “women to watch,” compiled by the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal as part of the publication’s annual Women in Business Awards. The business newspaper also recognized 25 female industry leaders. McGuire and the other honorees will be recognized at a May 23 luncheon and featured in a special edition of the publication dated May 25.

Whether employees at Target’s headquarters are able to hold meetings, work out, shoot baskets or have a cookout in a new downtown Minneapolis space is up for consideration on May 3 when the city’s zoning board of adjustment considers granting the retailer a variance.

Target and other retailers have fought unsuccessfully for years to level the e-commerce playing field in the United States by requiring Amazon.com and other online-only merchants to collect sales tax. Doing so would eliminate the Internet-pure-play retailers’ most significant competitive advantage, and for a glimpse of just how significant look no further than Canada.

Bentonville, Ark. -- Wal-Mart Stores’ efforts to reduce waste and boost recycling added $231 million to its bottom line last year, company CFO Charles Holley said at the chain’s 2012 Global Sustainability Milestone Meeting.

Other speakers at the event, which was web cast live, included Mike Duke, president and CEO, Walmart; Doug McMillon, president and CEO, Walmart International; and Bill Simon, president and CEO, Walmart U.S.
 

New York -- Tesco Plc will invest 1 billion pounds ($1.6 billion) to help turnaround its domestic operations. The chain will slow its international expansion as its concentrates on its home base.

Tesco, the United Kingdom’s largest retailer, will give a makeover to about 430 of its U.K. supermarkets, add more workers and expand its online offerings.

Deerfield, Ill. -- Walgreens named Reuben Slone senior VP supply chain management, effective May 16. He comes to Walgreens from OfficeMax, where he served as executive VP supply chain and general manager of services

Slone takes over supply chain management responsibility from Randy Lewis, who is transitioning to a new role with the chain. Lewis will continue to help advise on the company’s programs for people with disabilities and will play a critical role in several of Walgreens key strategic initiatives.

With its sleek all-white interiors and dramatic glass-steel storefront, Lord & Taylor’s store at Westchester’s Ridge Hill, Yonkers, N.Y., is its most contemporary to date.