News

Germantown, Md. -- Children’s apparel brand Carter’s will undergo a major network upgrade to deliver stronger security, better performance, and in-store wireless connectivity to be provided by Hughes Network Systems, a global provider of broadband satellite networks and services, and managed network and application services.

HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill. -- Kmart announced that it is teaming up with comedian Steve Harvey for its Share the Word campaign celebrating Black History Month. According to the company, this year's installment of the Share the Word program was designed to spotlight the unique bonds found in black communities that have historically driven the progression of African-Americans.

Washington — U.S. consumer spending rose more than expected in December as Americans spent at the fastest pace in three years. The Commerce Department reported that spending rose 0.7% in December, the sixth straight monthly increase.

For all of 2010, consumers boosted spending 3.5%, the best performance since pre-recession 2007, when spending rose 5.2%. The government reported that consumer spending rose at a 4.4% rate in the final three months of 2010.

Target took the 21st spot out of a list of 46 retailers ranked for their customer service. Zappos.com took the top spot followed by Amazon.com and LL Bean. Walmart was ranked 27.

Other retailers in the top ten include Overstock.com (4), JCPenney (6) and Kohl's (7).

DEERFIELD, Ill. — Walgreens is continuing its Community Corner Initiative by showcasing products manufactured by African-American suppliers, in line with Black History Month.

On Feb. 1, Target will begin selling an exclusive edition of Ricky Martin's new album, "Musica Alma Sexo." According to Target's website, this edition has seven exclusive tracks, including two dance mixes, three unreleased songs and solo versions of the hit singles "Lo Mejor De Mi Vida Eres Tu" and "The Best Thing About Me is You." 

This is Martin's first new studio album in six years, and some big names including Natalia Jimenez, Joss Stone, Wisin y Yandel, and Claudia Leitte joined him on the album. 

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Looking to foray into online sales, Meijer is launching a new grocery service for its customers.

MeijerDoorstepGrocer.com will offer customers thousands of grocery and drug store items, many of them available in single-pack or smaller sizes. Meijer initially will offer about 5,000 items on its website. With no minimum order requirement for delivery, the company said, but for a limited time, customers have the opportunity to save on orders that exceed $100. Shipping costs start at $7.95.

MINNEAPOLIS -- Best Buy announced that it is helping consumers get ready for the Super Bowl by offering deals on Samsung products in stores and online through Feb. 5. 

Best Buy's deals include: