News

BATTLE CREEK, Mich. — The Kellogg Company displayed the benefits of a strong customer-loyalty program with a presentation of its Kellogg's Family Rewards program, developed by the company Aimia, at the Loyalty Expo in Orlando, Florida.

Twentieth Century Fox Consumer Products launched an e-commerce initiative involving brand specific shops for some of its most popular properties.

The online shops will roll out over the course of the year and are intended to offer a more engaging user experience for consumers. For example, the online shops for Fox properties such as New Girl, Glee, American Dad and Family Guy will feature product as well as the ability to view content and interact with the brands via social media.

CINCINNATI — Kroger on Tuesday announced the planned retirement of VP and pension investment officer, Rich Manka. His retirement is effective July 15.

"Throughout his career, Rich has been a trusted member of Kroger's leadership team," stated Mike Schlotman, Kroger's CFO. "Pension plan trustees and participants alike have benefited from his vast knowledge and influence on investment strategies and plan designs. We thank Rich for his contributions to our company and industry and wish him the very best."

Best Buy, Costco, Petco and four other retailers were among a group of 145 companies identified as the World’s Most Ethical companies by Ethisphere.

WOONSOCKET, R.I. — CVS/pharmacy has launched a first-of-its-kind interactive app, delivering a virtual 3-D digital drug store experience for customers using Apple iPads.

Regional department store operator Gordmans Stores reported disappointing fourth quarter sales and indicated 2013 is of to a slow start.

Sales for the 14 week fourth quarter ended February 2 increased 9.4% to $202.5 million, but the gain was driven entirely by an additional week in the reporting period and the opening of nine new stores in four new markets and two new states. Same stores sales declined 4.1%.

Westlake Ace Hardware is showing off a new, fresh design at its location in Bolivar, Missouri. The 17,845-sq.-ft. store has an organic and modern feel, with a wood and metal façade and polished concrete floors. Garage-style doors (kept open, weather permitting) and skylights allow natural light into the space. The format works to encourage browsing and helps make Westlake a preferred destination for project needs. (Westlake was designed by JGA, Southfield, Mich.)

Who needs a bank? Walmart and American Express have added a host of capabilities to the Bluebird financial service product they introduced last year as an alternative to debit and checking accounts.