OPERATIONS / SUPPLY CHAIN

Wayne, N.J. -- The search is on for a new chief executive of Toys “R” Us with the announcement that Gerald L. Storch is stepping down as CEO of the company. The news comes just weeks after the world's largest dedicated toy retailer reported that its same-store U.S. sales fell 4.5% during the holiday season, and that its total sales fell 4.7%. 

Raleigh, N.C. -- Apple, Costco and The Container Store top the “2012 100 Best Retailers To Work For” list compiled by The Retail Life online retail community, which was developed by Headway Workforce Solutions. DSW and American Eagle outfitters round out the top five.

The list, derived from The Retail Life members, was based on a variety of criteria, such as: competitive salaries, employee reviews, company pride, organizational values and culture, socialization opportunities, and career advancement opportunities.

Palo Alto, Calif. -- The shopping app Shopkick on Wednesday announced that Nielsen ranked Shopkick No. 34 out of approximately 1 million apps in December 2012. While still trailing giants like Facebook, YouTube and Twitter overall, Shopkick dominated the shopping category during the holiday season, with more frequent and prolonged usage than all physical retailers' own apps including Starbucks, Walmart, Walgreens, Kroger and Safeway, the app developer noted.

New York — American Express has launched a new venture with Twitter, that could lead to a whole new category of shopping.

Foothill Ranch, Calif. — The Wet Seal announced that Barbara Cook, SVP store operations, has resigned from the company to accept a new professional opportunity. Cook will remain with the company until Feb. 20 to assist with transition of her responsibilities.

John Goodman, CEO of The Wet Seal, Inc., commented: “We thank Barbara for her service to the company since joining us in late 2011 and wish her all the best in her new role.”

Salt Lake City -- Overstock.com said Tuesday that chairman and CEO Patrick Byrne will take a leave of absence for medical reasons. Company president Jonathan Johnson will assume Byrne’s CEO duties during the leave, although Byrne will remain chairman of the board.

Byrne, in recent years, had undergone various procedures regarding cardiac issues that may stem from his earlier episodes of cancer, and his leave of absence is associated with these cardiac issues.

New York -- In a survey released Tuesday, Amazon.com topped America’s list of companies with great reputations, joined by Apple and Google in the top five.

The 2013 Harris Poll Reputation Quotient, which polls the general public about the reputations of the 60 most visible U.S. companies, put Amazon in the top spot for the first time, although it consistently has earned high rankings. Amazon edged out Apple, which ranked first last year and second in 2013.

Walt Disney Co., Google, and Johnson & Johnson completed the top five.

Chicago -- Claire’s Stores announced Tuesday that Sam’s Club EVP and chief merchandising officer Linda Hefner Filler has been named president of Claire’s North America, effective March 1.

Filler will report to CEO Jim Fielding and will be charged with implementing operational and strategic initiatives for Claire's in the U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.