OPERATIONS / SUPPLY CHAIN

NRF turns up the heat on Obama’s overtime pay proposal
Washington, D.C. -- The National Retail Federation upped its criticism of President Obama’s proposal to extend overtime pay, saying it would turn “professionals into clock-watchers.”
Sears Hometown and Outlet Stores promotes COO to CEO
Hoffman Estates, Ill. – Sears Hometown and Outlet Stores Inc. has named William (Will) A. Powell as CEO and president. Powell succeeds W. Bruce Johnson, who as previously announced is stepping down as CEO and president.

Whole Foods Market in mea culpa

New York -- The top executives at Whole Foods Market have issued a mea culpa via social media in regards to an investigation that found instances of incorrectly priced products at their stores in New York City.
Aeropostale prepares for landing in India, Indonesia

New York – Aeropostale Inc. is expanding in Asia through new licensing agreements in India and Indonesia. The company plans to open stores in India through a licensing agreement with Arvind Lifestyle Brands Ltd., and in Indonesia through a licensing agreement with PT Mitra Adiperkasa TBK (MAP).
Top 10 Stories of the First Half of 2015

Having passed the calendar’s mid-point, we thought it would be interesting to take a look at the top 10 most-viewed stories of the year (to date) on Chainstoreage.com.
Macy’s to Trump: You’re fired

New York – Macy’s Inc. has dumped The Donald.
Men’s Wearhouse names PetSmart exec COO

Fremont, Calif. - The Men's Wearhouse has named Bruce K. Thorn, 48, executive VP and COO. Prior to joining Men's Wearhouse, Thorn served as executive VP, store operations, services and supply chain at PetSmart Inc.

Thorn had been employed by PetSmart since 2007 in various positions, assuming his most recent post in April 2014. Prior to joining PetSmart, Thorn served in various leadership roles with Gap, Cintas Corp., LESCO, Inc. and the U.S. Army.
Kroger on the hunt for a COO

Cincinnati -- Kroger now finds itself in need of a COO.

In an abrupt announcement, Kroger on Tuesday said president and COO Mike Ellis has retired after 40 years with the company. The grocer said a successor will be named at a later date.
Jo-Ann Fabric in exec hiring, promotion

Hudson, Ohio -- Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores announced a key hire in marketing, and a promotion in merchandising.

Jo-Ann has hired Amy Parker as senior VP, marketing & advertising. Most recently, Amy was the chief marketing officer for Pet Supplies Plus and prior, chief marketing officer for the home division at Sears Holdings.

Previously, she was with Michaels, Toys “R” Us, and several other multi-unit chains.
Retailers, restaurants to feel impact of overtime pay expansion

Washington, D.C. -- Retailers and restaurant owners can expect their labor costs to rise under a new proposal from the Obama administration.

On Tuesday, the Department of Labor unveiled a proposal whereby salaried workers who earn up to $50,440 a year would be eligible for time-and-a-half overtime wages when they work more than 40 hours per week. That is more than double the current threshold of $23,660, or $455 per week, established in 2004.