Monthly Archives: October 2015

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Retail Industry Leaders Association and Retail Litigation Center launched 2015 Retail Law Conference in San Antonio, TX

General Counsel Discuss Ways To Keep Up With Pace Of Change In Retail

San Antonio, TX,  2015-10-30 — /EPR Retail News/ — Yesterday, the Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA), in partnership with the Retail Litigation Center (RLC), launched the 2015 Retail Law Conference in San Antonio, TX. Now in its sixth year, the Retail Law Conference offers education and networking opportunities for legal counsel across the retail industry.

Day one of the conference opened with a presentation from The Future Hunters’ Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Erica Orange, who shared insights into social, technological, economic, political, demographic and environmental trends and how they effect the role of retail general counsel. Among the topics discussed were how to identify trends and countertrends and observations about the speeding up of disruptive change and how retail general counsel adapt to that change.

“The general counsel plays a critical role within the retail enterprise. The pace of change in retail is dramatic and general counsel not only have a front-row seat to that change but also an obligation to manage risk,” said Deborah White, executive vice president and legal counsel for RILA, and president of the RLC. “The Retail Law Conference allows these leaders an opportunity to discuss these challenges, share best strategies, and connect with leading experts in the field.”

The first day concluded with a panel titled “Implications of Future Trends for Retail’s Legal Leaders,” moderated by Orange. The panel, which featured general counsel from QVC, Target, and Whole Foods Market, identified the need to build strong relationships with peers across the retail enterprise and to prioritize nimbleness in legal departments in order to keep up with change in the industry.

The three day conference will feature discussion around a range of retail issues, including cybersecurity, innovations in payment options, patents and federal and state regulations.

RILA is the trade association of the world’s largest and most innovative retail companies. RILA members include more than 200 retailers, product manufacturers, and service suppliers, which together account for more than $1.5 trillion in annual sales, millions of American jobs and more than 100,000 stores, manufacturing facilities and distribution centers domestically and abroad.

The Retail Litigation Center is a public policy organization that identifies and engages in legal proceedings which affect the retail industry.  The RLC, whose members include some of the country’s largest retailers, was formed to provide courts with retail industry perspectives on significant legal issues, and highlight the potential industry-wide consequences of legal principles that may be determined in pending cases.

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Brian Dodge
Executive Vice President, Communications and Strategic Initiatives
Phone: 703-600-2017
Email: brian.dodge@rila.org

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Record 24,392 registered attendees at 2015 NACS Show

ALEXANDRIA, VA, 2015-10-30 — /EPR Retail News/ — The 2015 NACS Show attracted a record 24,392 registered attendees, of which 9,038 were classified as buyers (retailers, convenience distributors). The total number of registered attendees, which includes Petroleum Equipment Institute (PEI) buyer registration, was 3.3% higher than last year and topped the previous attendance record set in 2004.

The 2015 NACS Show also attracted a record 2,490 international attendees representing 73 countries (another record), showcasing the event’s importance to the success of the global convenience and fuel retailing industry.

Expo Continues Growth
The 2015 NACS Show, which took place October 11–14 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, is one of the top 40 largest trade shows in the United States. The size of the NACS Show expo increased 2% over 2014, with 1,264 exhibiting companies. The record-setting 412,600 net-square-foot expo also featured 228 companies new to the NACS Show, of which 154 were part of the expo’s New Exhibitor Area.

Extending the value of the expo to both retailers and suppliers, the popular Cool New Products Preview Room showcased 311 products and services new to the convenience store industry. More than 1,800 visitors to the Preview Room averaged 16 product scans per person and 29,890 total product scans.

Sessions Attract Record Numbers
The NACS Show featured four days of general sessions featuring leadership experts and the popular NACS Ideas 2 Go program, a fast-paced video program of emerging concepts that redefine convenience. This was the first year that the event featured four days of general sessions. The Ideas 2 Go video is available for purchase online. The general sessions presentations by NACS President and CEO Henry Armour, 2014-15 NACS Chairman Steve Loehr and 2015-16 NACS Chairman Jack Kofdarali will be posted online in the coming weeks.

The NACS Show also offered 62 educational sessions that drew a total of 12,309 attendees, averaging 198 attendees per session. Reflecting the growing international opportunities offered at the NACS Show, the general sessions were translated into Portuguese, Spanish and Mandarin Chinese, and select educational sessions were translated into Portuguese and Spanish.

At the conclusion of the NACS Show, approximately 42 tons of leftover product from exhibitors was donated to the Three Square Food Bank, which provides food to southern Nevada residents in need.

“The NACS Show is truly the event of the year for the convenience store industry,” said 2015–16 NACS Chairman Jack Kofdarali. “Our industry is full of entrepreneurs and innovators who come to the NACS Show year after year to find that one idea that can change their business, turn a profit and make their customers excited to shop their stores. No other event provides knowledge, education, networking and new products like the NACS Show.”

New NACS Leadership Announced
The NACS Show is also a business meeting. Jack Kofdarali, president of Corona, California-based J&T Management Inc., was named the association’s 2015–16 chairman. Kofdarali also chairs the NACS Executive Committee, which provides strategic direction and financial oversight to the association.

The following NACS retail members serve on the NACS Executive Committee:

Vice Chairman-Treasurer: Peter Tedeschi, President and CEO at Rockland, Massachusetts-based Tedeschi Food Shops
Vice Chairman, Legislative: Joe Sheetz, President and CEO at Altoona, Pennsylvania-based Sheetz Inc.
Vice Chairman, Convention: Wendy Chronister, CEO of Chronister Oil Company (Qik-n-EZ) in Springfield, Illinois
Vice Chairman, Research: Kevin Smartt, CEO of Austin, Texas-based Kwik Chek Food Stores Inc.
Vice Chairman, Member Services: Rahim Budhwani, CEO at Hoover, Alabama-based 6040 LLC
Vice Chairman, International: Frank Gleeson, Managing Director at Dublin, Ireland-based Aramark Ireland
Vice Chairman: Tony Kenney, President at Enon, Ohio-based Speedway LLC
Also on the NACS Executive Committee are:

2014-15 NACS Chairman Steve Loehr, Vice President, Operations Support at La Crosse, Wisconsin-based Kwik Trip Inc.
2013-14 NACS Chairman Brad Call, Vice President of Adventure Culture at North Salt Lake City, Utah-based Maverik Inc.
NACS also named four new members to its Board of Directors:

Lisa Dell’Alba, president and CEO of Square One Markets (Bethlehem, PA)
Dee Dhaliwal, president of Dhaliwal & Associates (Pleasanton, CA)
Bill Kent, president and CEO of The Kent Companies dba Kent Kwik Convenience Stores (Midland, TX)
Victor Paterno, CEO of Philippine Seven Corp. dba 7-Eleven Convenience Store (Mandaluyong, Philippines)
On the supplier side, Kevin Martello, vice president of convenience at Dr Pepper Snapple Group, was named 2015–16 chairman of the NACS Supplier Board. In addition, Brad McGuinness, senior vice president of corporate R&D at Verifone Inc., was named chair-elect and will succeed Martello as 2016–17 chairman.

The 2016 NACS Show will take place October 18–21 in Atlanta at the Georgia World Congress Center. Highlights from the 2015 NACS Show and information on next year’s event can be found at nacsshow.com. NACS has a complete listing of 2016 events posted online.

NACS has held an annual meeting every year since its founding in 1961, but it wasn’t until 1976 that the meeting included a full-scale expo, which was part of the meeting every two or three years. The annual meeting became the annual NACS Show in 1993. The Petroleum Marketers Association of America (PMAA) has held its Fall Meeting as part of the NACS Show since in 1995 and PEI has held its annual meeting as part of the NACS Show since in 2002. Today, the NACS Show is rotated between three cities: Chicago, Las Vegas and Atlanta.

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Founded in 1961 as the National Association of Convenience Stores, NACS (nacsonline.com) is the international association for convenience and fuel retailing. The U.S. convenience store industry, with more than 152,700 stores across the country, posted $696.1 billion in total sales in 2014, of which $482.6 billion were motor fuels sales. NACS has 2,100 retail and 1,600 supplier member companies, which do business in nearly 50 countries.

SOURCE: NACS

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NACS welcomes legislation for national, uniform nutrition-disclosure standard for foodservice establishments introduced in U.S. Senate

WASHINGTON, 2015-10-30 — /EPR Retail News/ — The National Association of Convenience Stores (NACS) hailed legislation introduced today in the U.S. Senate, the Common Sense Nutrition Disclosure Act (S. 2217), as a thoughtful approach to providing the necessary flexibility and understanding of convenience store foodservice operations.

A provision included in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, signed into law in March 2010, calls for a national, uniform nutrition-disclosure standard for foodservice establishments. Regulations implementing this provision, finalized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in November 2014, create rigid requirements that pose an unreasonable burden on convenience stores. The FDA’s rules, set to take effect on December 1, 2016, do not recognize how convenience stores, grocery stores, delivery operations and other approaches to foodservice are different than restaurants. Further, the intent of law was designed for big chain restaurants with simple, standardized menus at all locations and Congress’s intent was to ensure those menus provide clear, understandable nutrition information.

The bipartisan legislation introduced today by U.S. Senators Roy Blunt (R-MO) and Angus King (I-ME) codifies a less burdensome approach to menu labeling. For those convenience stores that would be covered by federal menu-labeling requirements, the Common Sense Nutrition Disclosure Act provides more flexibility with compliance. The legislation also removes the potential for criminal penalties if a store or restaurant gives some customers larger servings than they expected. The Senate bill maintains but modifies FDA’s menu-labeling regulations to provide nutritional information to customers in a more practical format, and to protect small businesses from overly burdensome costs and penalties.

“Convenience stores and their foodservice offerings vary greatly—even those that are part of the same chain—based largely on their location and customer base. S. 2217 provides retailers with the flexibility they need to communicate calorie nutrition information, and provides needed protections from unnecessary potential felony penalties on retail employees,” said Lyle Beckwith, senior vice president of government relations at NACS. “This legislation would also allow FDA to meet the objectives of the menu-labeling law without unnecessarily burdening retailers and confusing customers.”

NACS has been actively engaged with the FDA during the regulatory process, ensuring that the agency understands the convenience store industry’s unique perspective on federal nutrition disclosure obligations.

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Founded in 1961 as the National Association of Convenience Stores, NACS (nacsonline.com) is the international association for convenience and fuel retailing. The U.S. convenience store industry, with more than 152,700 stores across the country, posted $696.1 billion in total sales in 2014, of which $482.6 billion were motor fuels sales. NACS has 2,100 retail and 1,600 supplier member companies, which do business in nearly 50 countries.

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Dunkin’ Donuts signs with three franchise groups to develop 13 new restaurants in North and South Carolina

LEADING COFFEE AND BAKERY CHAIN ON TRACK FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF 410 – 440 NET NEW DUNKIN’ DONUTS RESTAURANTS IN THE U.S. IN 2015

CANTON, MA, 2015-10-30 — /EPR Retail News/ — Dunkin’ Donuts, America’s all-day, everyday stop for coffee and baked goods, announced today the signing of multi-unit store development agreements with three franchise groups to develop 13 new restaurants in North and South Carolina over the next several years. The brand remains on track for the development of 410 – 440 net new Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants in the U.S. in 2015.

The three franchise groups and their development plans include:

  • Existing franchise group Kings Point Ventures, LLC, led by Alex Smigelski, Tom Carpenter and Tom Hughes, plans to develop eight new restaurants in Raleigh, N.C.  They have also purchased an existing multi-brand unit with sister brand Baskin-Robbins in Cary, N.C.  This team currently owns and operates one Dunkin’ Donuts location in Raleigh and nearly 40 other restaurants throughout New York, Pennsylvania and Connecticut. Their first restaurant under this development agreement is planned to open by year-end, and the remainder are planned to open by 2018.
  • Existing franchisees Donna and Vince Machi plan to develop one Dunkin’ Donuts restaurant in Charlotte, N.C that will open in 2016. They currently own and operate four Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants in New Jersey, and previously signed an agreement to develop three restaurants in West Charlotte. One of the restaurants is currently open, and an additional location will open before year-end.
  • Existing franchise group Coastal Franchising, led by George Ross, plans to develop four new Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants in Charleston, S.C. This group currently owns 37 restaurants, with a number of new locations expected to open in Raleigh, Charlotte and Wilmington.

“Our enthusiastic and dedicated franchisees contribute to our brand’s growth, which has helped solidify our position as one of the fastest growing brands by unit count in the quick-service restaurant industry,” said Grant Benson, CFE, vice president of global franchising and business development, Dunkin’ Brands. “We are thrilled that these existing franchisees haven chosen to expand in the Carolinas, and know these new restaurants will satisfy a growing consumer demand in the local communities they serve.”

Currently, there are over 370 Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants located throughout the Carolinas, and the company is continuing to recruit franchisees in Greensboro and Wilmington, N.C. To help fuel growth in North Carolina, special development incentives are available, which include reduced royalty fees for three years and up to $5,000 in local store marketing support for timely openings.*

In an effort to keep the brand fresh and competitive, Dunkin’ Donuts offers flexible concepts for any real estate format including free-standing restaurants, end caps, in-line sites, gas and convenience, travel plazas, universities, as well as other retail environments.

Dunkin’ Donuts’ new look includes four distinct restaurant design options for franchisees, each featuring variations in layout, color schemes, graphics, textures, furniture and/or lighting. The designs enhance the current restaurant appearance, environment and layout to serve people all day long. Unlike other quick-service restaurants, Dunkin’ Donuts allows franchisees to select individual elements from any of the four options, creating a restaurant design that reflects their personal tastes and preferences, and best serves their specific restaurant size and location.

Since the 1950s, Dunkin’ Donuts has been a daily ritual for millions of people and has offered guests delicious food, beverages and friendly service at a great value. Dunkin’ Donuts offerings include hot coffee, iced coffee, flavored coffees, lattes, macchiato, espresso, cappuccino, Dunkin’ Donuts K-Cup® pods, Coolatta® frozen drinks, donuts, muffins, bagels, breakfast and bakery sandwiches, and a DDSMART® menu featuring better-for-you items.

To learn more about Dunkin’ Donuts, visit www.DunkinDonuts.com or follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/DunkinDonuts) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/DunkinDonuts).

*Details available in the Dunkin’ Donuts Franchise Disclosure Document

About Dunkin’ Donuts
Founded in 1950, Dunkin’ Donuts is America’s favorite all-day, everyday stop for coffee and baked goods. Dunkin’ Donuts is a market leader in the hot regular/decaf/flavored coffee, iced coffee, donut, bagel and muffin categories. Dunkin’ Donuts has earned the No. 1 ranking for customer loyalty in the coffee category by Brand Keys for nine years running. The company has more than 11,400 restaurants in 39 countries worldwide. Based in Canton, Mass., Dunkin’ Donuts is part of the Dunkin’ Brands Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: DNKN) family of companies. For more information, visit www.DunkinDonuts.com.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Name: Jenna Kantrowitz
Phone: 954-893-9150
Email: jkantrowitz@fish-consulting.com

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X5 Retail Group announces cooperation agreement between Pyaterochka and mobile phone retailer Euroset

Moscow, 2015-10-30 — /EPR Retail News/ — X5 Retail Group, a leading Russian food retailer, announces the signing of a cooperation agreement between Pyaterochka and mobile phone retailer Euroset. The agreement involves the opening of 150 small-format Euroset outlets in Pyaterochka stores by late 2015, with 40 to be launched in Moscow and the Moscow region, 20 in St. Petersburg, and the rest in other regions where Pyaterochka operates.

Euroset outlets of up to 10 sq m each will be located near Pyaterochka’s checkout area and will enjoy a single rental rate regardless of the outlet size or the region of operations.

Euroset has developed an improved outlet concept with an optimised product offering and a stronger service awareness focus to best match the needs of Pyaterochka customers. The outlets’ main services will include SIM card sales, money transfers, utility, TV and internet bill payments, loan payments, as well as airline, rail and bus ticket sales.

This agreement with Pyaterochka will provide Euroset with a vast distribution network and access to its target audience, while also creating the opportunity for it to scale up its business in line with the growth Pyaterochka’s national food retail chain. Taking advantage of the complementary value propositions of Pyaterochka and Euroset, this partnership will boost traffic thanks to additional services available to customers.

Such cooperation agreements are part of Pyaterochka’s strategy for developing partnerships in high-value additional services segments, which, in addition to mobile phone stores, also include pharmacies, repairs and everyday service kiosks, children’s stores, bakeries and more. The main purpose of sublease agreements is to create a comprehensive product and service offering tailored to customers’ needs at each location. In line with this initiative, Pyaterochka is working to build a strong pool of major partners that provide high-quality, specialised goods or services.

Note to Editors:

X5 Retail Group N.V. (LSE: FIVE, Fitch – ‘BB’, Moody’s – ‘Ba3’, S&P – ‘BB-’) is a leading Russian food retailer. The Company operates several retail formats: the chain of proximity stores under the Pyaterochka brand, the supermarket chain under the Perekrestok brand, the hypermarket chain under the Karusel brand and Express convenience stores under various brands.

As of 30 September 2015, X5 had 6,512 Company-operated stores. It has the leading market position in both Moscow and St. Petersburg and a significant presence in the European part of Russia. Its store base includes 5,795 Pyaterochka proximity stores, 451 Perekrestok supermarkets, 84 Karusel hypermarkets and 182 convenience stores. The Company operates 34 DCs and 1,393 Company-owned trucks across the Russian Federation.

For the full year 2014, revenue totaled RUB 633,873 mln (USD 16,498 mln), EBITDA reached RUB 45,860 mln (USD 1,194 mln), and profit for the period amounted to RUB 12,691 mln (USD 330 mln). In 9M 2015, revenue totaled RUB 578,701 mln (USD 9,763 mln), EBITDA reached RUB 41,780 mln (USD 705 mln), and net income amounted to RUB 12,084 mln (USD 204 mln).

X5’s Shareholder structure is as follows: Alfa Group – 47.86%, founders of Pyaterochka – 14.43%, X5 Directors – 0.05%, treasury shares – 0.02%, free float – 37.64%.

For further details please contact:
Maxim Novikov
Head of Investor Relations
Tel.: +7 (495) 502-9783
e-mail: Maxim.Novikov@x5.ru

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Whole Foods Market’s Top Ten Holiday Wines launch in stores

Retailer’s experts curate exciting options to pair with seasonal dishes, all priced below $17 per bottle

AUSTIN, Texas, 2015-10-30 — /EPR Retail News/ — Whole Foods Market’s Top Ten Holiday Wines launch in stores today to take the guesswork out of gatherings and gifts this holiday season. Every bottle is priced between $9.99 and $16.99, and was selected by the retailer’s global team of experts to pair perfectly with seasonal flavors.

These distinctive, interesting and wallet-friendly wines were chosen to please a crowd, and most of them are hard to find anywhere else. The Apremont from Domaine Bernard et Cristophe Richel is a particularly rare and exciting variety that is hard to find in the U.S., yet offers broad appeal and over-delivers for the $14.99 price point.

“The Whole Foods Market wine team is on a mission to help customers find sensational wines that fit your budget and your interests. We tasted hundreds of options to curate these Top Ten Wines, bringing our shoppers foolproof bottles to make holiday entertaining easier,” said Doug Bell, global beverage buyer for Whole Foods Market. “As always, our holiday wines have options for everyone, from those looking for classic varietals like the Cave de Lugny Chardonnay to folks seeking adventurous choices like the Bula Montsant, a rich and balanced red.”

This collection of 10 wines and one bubbly were hand-picked by Whole Foods Market’s 11 regional wine buyers and two global buyers, Doug Bell and Devon Broglie, who is one of only 230 Master Sommeliers in the world. Visit wfm.com/wine for more information on these holiday wines from Whole Foods Market:

Domaine Bernard et Cristophe Richel, Apremont
Try a sip off the beaten path with this citrusy French White. Aromas of white flowers. Minerality and grapefruit notes.
Pairs with Mons Meule de Savoie cheese, seafood, oysters, fondue, charcuterie, ham, Hot Crab and Artichoke Dip.

Casas del Bosque, Sauvignon Blanc
Wafts of pear and jalapeño pepper. Fresh green melon flavors, grapefruit acidity. A nice plush heft in the body moves to a bright, clean finish.
Pairs with Vermont Creamery Bonne Bouche cheese, oysters, clams, pear and arugula salad, turkey and dressing, Hearty Turkey Noodle Soup.

Cave de Lugny, Chardonnay
Aromas of peach and apricot with a touch of citrus. Clean, crisp, nicely balanced with a just-sweet roundness. A food-loving wine!
Pairs with Mons Camembert cheese, seafood, chicken dishes, turkey, mushroom crepes, shrimp and grits, scalloped potatoes, Baked Camembert with Fresh Herbs.

The Stash, Pinot Noir
Ripe cherry and plum aromas. Stone fruit flavors then white pepper, blackberry, even hints of sassafras and cola. Mouthfilling yumminess.
Pairs with Cabot Clothbound Cheddar aged at Cellars at Jasper Hill, coq au vin, pork tenderloin, mushroom risotto, baby back ribs, squab, quail, turkey, Maple-Sage Cornish Hens with Roast Apples.

Squadra, Rosso
Wild herb and red berry aromas. Juicy ripe blackberry flavors, a touch of pepper and rustic minerality. The Sicilians know how to make a Red!
Pairs with Parmigiano Reggiano aged 24 months, pasta dishes with meat sauce, pork roast, beef rib roast, Roasted Leg of Lamb with Pomegranate Wine Sauce.

Michel Chapoutier, Marius Red Blend
A big, bold Red. Spicy black fruit aromas. A touch of earthiness. Hints of coffee and pepper balanced with a vanilla note. Full-bodied.
Pairs with Black Creek Vintage Cheddar aged 2 Years, hearty meats with sauce, chili, burgers, brisket sandwiches, wild mushroom lasagna, Homestyle Meatloaf.

Joel Gott, Grenache
Blackberry, strawberry, vanilla aromas. Blueberry and slight butterscotch flavors. Peppery acidity. Elegance for days.
Pairs with Petit Agour sheep’s milk cheese, lamb, venison, roasted veggies, Roasted Duck with Fig and Port Sauce.

Santa Julia Reserva, Mountain Blend
Aromas of red plum, violet and spice. Dark red fruit flavors, stewed berries and cobbler. Velvety mouthfeel. Full-bodied.
Pairs with Appleby’s Double Gloucester cheese, roast beef, brisket, Beef Tenderloin with Red Wine-Shallot Pan Sauce.

Sea Pines, Old Vine Petite Sirah
Deep plum and blueberry aromas. Warm spice notes. Generous roundness, silky tannins. Dark fruit flavors in the long finish. A rich, ripe California Red.
Pairs with Borough Market Stilton cheese, grilled meats, rich mushroom dishes, rosemary-roasted vegetables, coffee-rubbed meats, Garlic Roasted Beef Brisket.

Bula, Montsant
Attractive floral aromas. Layers of raspberry, rocky minerality and a subtle cherry sweetness. Richness in the finish, balanced by robust tannins.
Pairs with Mitica Mahón cheese, red meats, richer pasta dishes, pizza, paella, gumbo, Roasted Pimentón-Rubbed Pork Tenderloin with Romesco Sauce.

Madame Liberté, Brut
A bright golden bubbly, redolent with aromas of green apple, pear and a touch of toast. Baked apple flavors. Zippy acidity. Crisp and refreshing.
Pairs with Isigny Ste. Mère Bonhomme Brie, salmon, shellfish, brunch, cheese plates, Smoked Salmon Hash and Eggs.

Doug Bell
Global Beverage Buyer
Doug has acquired a rarefied view of the world of buying and selling wine from living in California wine country, traveling to every major wine region of the world, attending wine expositions, blending wines with winemakers, designing wine labels, sitting on wine panels, speaking at wine and beverage conferences, doing media interviews and connecting with our customers via social media and in stores.

Devon Broglie
Click for Hi-Resolution
Devon Broglie, MS
Master Sommelier and Associate Global Beverage Buyer
Devon became a Master Sommelier in 2011.

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Rite Aid October sales: same store sales increased 1.0 percent over the prior-year period

CAMP HILL, Pa., 2015-10-30 — /EPR Retail News/ — Rite Aid Corporation (NYSE: RAD) today announced sales results for October.

Monthly Sales
For the four weeks ended Oct. 24, 2015, same store sales increased 1.0 percent over the prior-year period. October front-end same store sales decreased 0.5 percent. Pharmacy same store sales, which included an approximate 249 basis points negative impact from new generic introductions, increased 1.7 percent. Prescription count at comparable stores increased 0.2 percent over the prior-year period.

Total drugstore sales for the four-week period increased 1.4 percent to $2.086 billion compared to $2.058 billion for the same period last year. Prescription sales accounted for 70.7 percent of drugstore sales, and third party prescription sales represented 97.9 percent of pharmacy sales.

Year-to-Date
Same store sales for the 34-week period ended Oct. 24, 2015 increased 2.2 percent over the prior-year period. Front-end same store sales increased 0.3 percent while pharmacy same store sales increased 3.0 percent. Prescription count at comparable stores increased 0.6 percent over the prior-year period.

Total drugstore sales for the 34 weeks ended Oct. 24, 2015 increased 2.2 percent with sales of $17.350 billion compared to $16.982 billion for the same period last year. Prescription sales represented 69.5 percent of total drugstore sales, and third party prescription sales represented 97.8 percent of pharmacy sales.

Rite Aid is one of the nation’s largest drugstore chains. On Oct. 24, 2015, the company operated 4,561 stores compared to 4,571 stores in the like period a year ago. Information about Rite Aid, including corporate background and press releases, is available through the company’s website at http://www.riteaid.com.

Note that all sales data in this release is preliminary, unaudited and subject to revision.

Statements in this release that are not historical are forward-looking statements made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks, assumptions and uncertainties that are described in Item 1A (Risk Factors) of our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and in other documents that we file or furnish with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which you are encouraged to read. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those indicated or anticipated by such forward-looking statements. Accordingly, you are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date they are made. Rite Aid expressly disclaims any current intention to update publicly any forward-looking statement after the distribution of this release, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions or otherwise.

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Contact:

Investors: Matt Schroeder 717-214-8867 or investor@riteaid.com

Media: Susan Henderson 717-730-7766

SOURCE:  Rite Aid Corp.

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Darren Karst promoted to the combined role of senior executive VP and CFO and chief administrative officer Rite Aid Corporation

Company Also Names Jim Comitale as SVP, General Counsel and Secretary

CAMP HILL, Pa., 2015-10-30 — /EPR Retail News/ — Rite Aid Corporation (NYSE: RAD) today announced that Darren Karst has been promoted to the combined role of senior executive vice president and chief financial officer and chief administrative officer, effective immediately. He will continue to report to Rite Aid Chairman and CEO John T. Standley.

Karst, who joined Rite Aid in August, 2014 as the company’s executive vice president and chief financial officer, is assuming the CAO responsibilities currently held by Frank Vitrano, who will remain with the company as its chief strategic business development officer. In addition to Karst’s current responsibilities for all aspects of the company’s finance, accounting, treasury, tax, investor relations, legal, risk management, internal assurance and asset protection functions, he will now also be responsible for the company’s information technology, indirect procurement and operating efficiency functions.

The company also announced the appointment of Jim Comitale, currently assistant general counsel, to senior vice president, general counsel and secretary, reporting to Karst. He is succeeding Marc Strassler, who will continue to serve as Rite Aid’s corporate counsel.

Rite Aid Corporation is one of the nation’s leading drugstore chains with nearly 4,600 stores in 31 states and the District of Columbia and fiscal 2015 annual revenues of $26.5 billion. Information about Rite Aid, including corporate background and press releases, is available through the company’s website at www.riteaid.com.

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Contact:

Investors: Matt Schroeder 717-214-8867 or investor@riteaid.com

Media: Susan Henderson 717-730-7766

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Apple Q4 results: $51.5 billion revenue and $11.1 billion net profit

iPhone, Apple Watch & App Store Drive Revenue Growth of 22%

CUPERTINO, California, 2015-10-30 — /EPR Retail News/ — Apple® today announced financial results for its fiscal 2015 fourth quarter ended September 26, 2015. The Company posted quarterly revenue of $51.5 billion and quarterly net profit of $11.1 billion, or $1.96 per diluted share. These results compare to revenue of $42.1 billion and net profit of $8.5 billion, or $1.42 per diluted share, in the year-ago quarter. Gross margin was 39.9 percent compared to 38 percent in the year-ago quarter. International sales accounted for 62 percent of the quarter’s revenue.

The growth was fueled by record fourth quarter sales of iPhone®, the expanded availability of Apple Watch®, and all-time records for Mac® sales and revenue from services.

“Fiscal 2015 was Apple’s most successful year ever, with revenue growing 28% to nearly $234 billion. This continued success is the result of our commitment to making the best, most innovative products on earth, and it’s a testament to the tremendous execution by our teams,” said Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO. “We are heading into the holidays with our strongest product lineup yet, including iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus, Apple Watch with an expanded lineup of cases and bands, the new iPad Pro and the all-new Apple TV which begins shipping this week.”

“Apple’s record September quarter results drove earnings per share growth of 38% and operating cash flow of $13.5 billion,” said Luca Maestri, Apple’s CFO. “We returned $17 billion to our investors during the quarter through share repurchases and dividends, and we have now completed over $143 billion of our $200 billion capital return program.”

Apple is providing the following guidance for its fiscal 2016 first quarter:

  • revenue between $75.5 billion and $77.5 billion
  • gross margin between 39 percent and 40 percent
  • operating expenses between $6.3 billion and $6.4 billion
  • other income/(expense) of $400 million
  • tax rate of 26.2 percent

Apple’s board of directors has declared a cash dividend of $.52 per share of the Company’s common stock. The dividend is payable on November 12, 2015, to shareholders of record as of the close of business on November 9, 2015.

Apple will provide live streaming of its Q4 2015 financial results conference call beginning at 2:00 p.m. PDT on October 27, 2015 at www.apple.com/quicktime/qtv/earningsq415. This webcast will also be available for replay for approximately two weeks thereafter.

This press release contains forward-looking statements including without limitation those about the Company’s estimated revenue, gross margin, operating expenses, other income/(expense), and tax rate. These statements involve risks and uncertainties, and actual results may differ. Risks and uncertainties include without limitation the effect of competitive and economic factors, and the Company’s reaction to those factors, on consumer and business buying decisions with respect to the Company’s products; continued competitive pressures in the marketplace; the ability of the Company to deliver to the marketplace and stimulate customer demand for new programs, products, and technological innovations on a timely basis; the effect that product introductions and transitions, changes in product pricing or mix, and/or increases in component costs could have on the Company’s gross margin; the inventory risk associated with the Company’s need to order or commit to order product components in advance of customer orders; the continued availability on acceptable terms, or at all, of certain components and services essential to the Company’s business currently obtained by the Company from sole or limited sources; the effect that the Company’s dependency on manufacturing and logistics services provided by third parties may have on the quality, quantity or cost of products manufactured or services rendered; risks associated with the Company’s international operations; the Company’s reliance on third-party intellectual property and digital content; the potential impact of a finding that the Company has infringed on the intellectual property rights of others; the Company’s dependency on the performance of distributors, carriers and other resellers of the Company’s products; the effect that product and service quality problems could have on the Company’s sales and operating profits; the continued service and availability of key executives and employees; war, terrorism, public health issues, natural disasters, and other circumstances that could disrupt supply, delivery, or demand of products; and unfavorable results of legal proceedings. More information on potential factors that could affect the Company’s financial results is included from time to time in the “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” sections of the Company’s public reports filed with the SEC, including the Company’s Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 27, 2014, its Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarter ended December 27, 2014, its Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarter ended March 28, 2015, its Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarter ended June 27, 2015, and its Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 26, 2015 to be filed with the SEC. The Company assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements or information, which speak as of their respective dates.

Apple revolutionized personal technology with the introduction of the Macintosh in 1984. Today, Apple leads the world in innovation with iPhone, iPad, the Mac and Apple Watch. Apple’s three software platforms — iOS, OS X and watchOS — provide seamless experiences across all Apple devices and empower people with breakthrough services including the App Store, Apple Music, Apple Pay and iCloud. Apple’s 100,000 employees are dedicated to making the best products on earth, and to leaving the world better than we found it.

Press Contact:
Kristin Huguet
Apple
khuguet@apple.com
(408) 974-2414

Investor Relations Contacts:
Nancy Paxton
Apple
paxton1@apple.com
(408) 974-5420

Joan Hoover
Apple
hoover1@apple.com
(408) 974-4570

Apple, the Apple logo, iPhone, Apple Watch and Mac are trademarks of Apple. Other company and product names may be trademarks of their respective owners.

Apple Media Helpline (408) 974-2042 media.help@apple.com

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10 Taubman shopping centers across US host special family-friendly holiday experience to celebrate ‘The Peanuts Movie’

Exclusive, interactive Ice Palaces capture the magic of ‘The Peanuts Movie’ in theaters Nov. 6

BLOOMFIELD HILLS, Mich., 2015-10-30 — /EPR Retail News/ —  To celebrate the launch of The Peanuts Movie, in theaters everywhere on Friday, November 6, a special family-friendly holiday experience is being offered exclusively at 10 Taubman shopping centers across the U.S. from November 6 through December 24.

Developed in partnership with 20th Century Fox, the iconic Peanuts characters will take center stage within unique, interactive Ice Palaces at each participating mall. The indoor holiday displays will feature a 30-foot dome complete with falling snow, a light show and other activities for the entire family.

“These lovable characters are synonymous with the holidays and what better way to bring them to life than through this memorable experience,” said Glenda Cole, vice president, marketing and sponsorship for Taubman. “Every year our Ice Palaces provide so much joy to families across the country and we’re certain the entire Peanuts gang will bring smiles and laughter to all who visit this season.”

“Taubman has created amazing holiday experiences for families and kids, so it was only natural to have the gang from The Peanuts Movie take part to share in the joy of the season,” said Zachary Eller, Senior Vice President, Marketing Partnerships, 20th Century Fox. “The immersive Ice Palace program will allow Peanuts fans of all ages to interact in a whole new way with these beloved characters.”

In addition, kids can watch special scenes from the new movie, create and compare their icy handprint alongside Snoopy and Woodstock, have their photo taken with a life-size graphic of Snoopy and his dog house and much more.

Shopping centers will also offer the opportunity for families to visit with Santa Claus as part of the Ice Palace experience. Those who visit Santa will receive a complimentary gift.

From coast to coast this holiday season, 10 Taubman shopping centers will feature the exclusive Peanuts Ice Palaces, including:

 

ABOUT THE PEANUTS MOVIE
In THE PEANUTS MOVIE, Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus and the rest of the beloved “Peanuts” Gang make their big-screen debut, like they’ve never been seen before, in state of the art 3D animation. Charlie Brown, the world’s most beloved underdog, embarks upon an epic and heroic quest, while his best pal, the lovable beagle Snoopy, takes to the skies to pursue his arch-nemesis, the Red Baron. From the imagination of Charles M. Schulz and the creators of the ICE AGE films, THE PEANUTS MOVIE will prove that every underdog has his day. The film opens in theaters everywhere November 6, 2015. www.peanutsmovie.com

ABOUT 20th CENTURY FOX 
One of the world’s largest producers and distributors of motion pictures, 20th Century Fox produces, acquires and distributes motion pictures throughout the world. These motion pictures are produced or acquired by the following units of 20th Century Fox Film: Twentieth Century Fox, Fox 2000 Pictures, Fox Searchlight Pictures, Fox International Productions, and Twentieth Century Fox Animation.

ABOUT TAUBMAN
Taubman Centers, Inc. (NYSE: TCO) is an S&P MidCap 400 Real Estate Investment Trust engaged in the ownership, management and/or leasing of 23 regional, super-regional and outlet shopping centers in the U.S. and Asia. Taubman’s U.S.-owned properties are the most productive in the publicly held U.S. regional mall industry. Taubman is currently developing four properties in the U.S. and Asia totaling 4.1 million square feet. Taubman, with more than 60 years of experience in the shopping center industry, is headquartered in Bloomfield Hills, Mich., and Taubman Asia is headquartered in Hong Kong. www.taubman.com

CONTACT:
Amy Grundman
Taubman Strategic Communications|
248-258-7681agrundman@taubman.com

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Target now available to shoppers in more than 200 countries and territories

Through partnership with Borderfree, a Pitney Bowes company, Target will deliver to international consumers this holiday season

MINNEAPOLIS, 2015-10-30 — /EPR Retail News/ — Target Corporation (NYSE: TGT) announced today it has launched an international version of its website available to shoppers in more than 200 countries and territories. The new site, which Target recently began testing, also will allow U.S. customers to ship Target orders to family and friends around the world, just in time for this holiday season.

“We believe international consumers will love shopping the great brands, great prices and exclusive products that are synonymous with Target,” said Jason Goldberger, president of Target.com and Mobile. “Target.com already gets tens of millions of visitors every year from outside the U.S., and this test will give us even greater insight into how shoppers around the world engage with Target.”

At Intl.Target.com, both international and U.S. guests will be able to shop about half the assortment of Target.com, including apparel, beauty products, home décor, housewares, baby goods and toys. The prices will be the same as those offered in the U.S. on Target.com, and can be shown in nearly 60 different currencies. Countries where shipping from Target is now available include China, India, Canada, Mexico, European Union countries and more.

Target’s partner Borderfree, a Pitney Bowes Inc. (NYSE:PBI) company, is a market leader in global e-commerce that operates a technology and services platform that some of the world’s most iconic brands rely on to expand globally and transact with consumers worldwide.

“We are thrilled to deliver our global e-commerce capabilities to Target,” said Lila Snyder, president, Global Ecommerce for Pitney Bowes. “Our deep experience with cross-border shopping is foundational to our collaboration with Target.”

International consumers will now get to experience why Americans for decades have counted on Target for high-quality, on-trend merchandise at low prices. When international guests visit Target.com, they will be taken to Target’s new international website. Guests can then designate the country they would like to ship to and also choose their currency. Prices sitewide will be shown in the local currency, reflecting current conversion rates. The checkout page will be translated into the local language and the all-in price with shipping charges, duties and tariffs will be clearly shown and transparent for guests.

“International shipping marks another step toward Target being able to truly deliver for guests anytime, anywhere,” said Target’s Goldberger. “We look forward to getting feedback from our international guests so we can continue to test, learn and iterate to help ensure we provide a great value to our new international guests.”

About Target
Minneapolis-based Target Corporation (NYSE:TGT) serves guests at 1,805 stores and at Target.com. Since 1946, Target has given 5 percent of its profit to communities, that giving equals more than $4 million a week. For more information, visit Target.com/Pressroom. For a behind-the-scenes look at Target, visit Target.com/abullseyeview or follow @TargetNews on Twitter.

SOURCE: Target Brands, Inc.

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Target: expanded digital tools, free shipping and returns as well as new international shipping options this holiday season

Holiday guests will find new and expanded digital tools for convenient shopping, top gifts and entertaining items, and ways to save throughout the season

MINNEAPOLIS, 2015-10-30 — /EPR Retail News/ — Target Corporation (NYSE: TGT) today announced it will give guests a more convenient shopping experience this holiday season through new and expanded digital tools and resources, including free shipping and returns at Target.com, and new international shipping options. Target’s holiday shoppers also will find top gifts and décor, ways to save throughout the season, and a marketing campaign, The Holiday Odyssey, that will tell the tale of a larger-than-life holiday journey.

“Target is starting the season with momentum in our business, anchored by increased store traffic and strength in our signature categories of baby, kids, style and wellness. The work we’ve done throughout the past year puts us in a position to deliver the convenient services and differentiated product our guests count on from Target, especially during the holidays,” said Brian Cornell, Chairman of the Board and CEO, Target. “I’m confident that guests will find an easy, inspiring, and most importantly, seamless experience at Target no matter how they choose to shop.”

New and Enhanced Digital Tools and Resources

Target continues to enhance and introduce new digital tools and resources to make shopping more convenient.

  • Beginning Nov. 1 through Dec. 25, Target will bring back free shipping and returns, making it easy for guests to shop online. 
  • New this holiday season, Target will offer international shopping and shipping to more than 200 countries and territories. In partnership with Borderfree, Target.com will offer guests the ability to pay in almost 60 different currencies and have their orders shipped to themselves or to family and friends who live outside the U.S.   
  • Next week, Curbside pickup service will expand from 21 to 121 Target stores. The offering, which allows guests to complete their “Target run” without ever leaving the car, will now be in all Philadelphia and San Francisco Bay area stores, and in select stores in the New York-New Jersey and Chicago areas. 
  • Beginning next week, Target is expanding Instacart, the popular on-demand grocery delivery service from Minneapolis, where it was first piloted, to San Francisco. Guests can visit Instacart.com or the Instacart app to shop Target for select groceries, household, health and beauty, pet and baby products and receive the order in less than two hours.  
  • Kids and families will find new and more engaging functionality on the Target Kids’ Wish List app, including kid-friendly browse, search and scan abilities, as well as easier ways for parents to manage and share lists. Kids can send a letter to Santa, who will send a response in the app, and play the new Snow-N-Roll game within the experience.

Target’s Holiday Odyssey 

This year, Target will introduce The Holiday Odyssey, a season-long tale at the heart of the retailer’s holiday marketing campaign. It all starts with a digital storybook—narrated by Neil Patrick Harris, star of the stage and screen—and will come to life with moving pictures and digital interactions for families to enjoy together. Available for free at Target.com/adventure beginning Nov. 4, the story unfolds with three kids and the Target mascot, Bullseye, embarking on a holiday quest. A cast of characters from LEGO, Minions, Ninja Turtles, and more, join in on the holiday journey that conveys the wonder and inspiration of the season. Key moments from the story will be reflected in Target stores beginning Nov. 1, and via advertising, including 12 broadcast spots, beginning Nov. 4.

Target Wonderland

On Dec. 7, Target will unveil Target Wonderland, a 16,000 square foot retail spectacle in New York’s Meatpacking District. Free and open to the public beginning Dec. 9, Target Wonderland will be a playful and kinetic environment meant to captivate adults and kids alike by bringing elements of The Holiday Odyssey to life, such as the “S.S. Free Shipping” LEGO ship from the broadcast ads. The experience will include digitally-driven shopping, giving guests a peek at the future of retail, imagined by Target. 

Ways to Save and Top Products

In addition to a number of deep discounts each week, guests will find many ways to save all season long.

  • Throughout the holidays, Cartwheel will have more than 1,000 new deals with more than 350 deals at 25 percent off or more. Also, Cartwheel will again offer 50 percent off a different toy every day from Nov. 1 through Dec. 24. 
  • Target’s recently expanded Price Match Policy will be extended for the holiday season beyond the typical 14-day window. If a guest purchases a qualifying item at Target between Nov. 1 and Dec. 24, and then finds it for less at Target or Target.com, a local competitor’s printed ad or at select online retailers, Target will match that price. For more details, including terms and conditions, visit Target.com/morereasons.
  • As always, REDcard holders receive five percent off nearly all purchases, free shipping on Target.com, and an extra 30 days for returns. Target’s REDcard is available in both debit and credit with no annual fee.

Target has everything guests need for gift giving, decorating, entertaining, and dressing the entire family in style this holiday season including:

  • More than 450 Star Wars products including the Target exclusive BB-8 Droid.
  • Top toys, including STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) toys from Meccano andVex. 
  • Electronics gifts for all ages including an expanded assortment of drones, a full range of Apple watches, popular video games and top Toys to Life brands like LEGO Dimensions, Disney Infinity, Skylanders and Amiibo. 
  • UNICEF Kid Power Band, the world’s first “wearable-for-good ™.” The band encourages kids to get active and help save the lives of kids in need around the world.
  • Exclusive Threshold home décor and entertaining items featuring artisan details, real marble and wood, and a new collection of Nate Berkus at Target home décor.
  • Exclusive line of chic giftwrap and accessories from L.A. based stationer, Sugar Paper, to inspire and help guests pull together beautifully packaged gifts. 
  • American-made giftables from storied Minnesota-based Faribault Woolen Mills, including throws, blankets, pillows, scarves and ponchos.
  • Stylish apparel and accessories for the entire family featuring key seasonal trends like shimmer, shine, cozy layers and faux fur.
  • The Little Prince nursery collection, celebrating the timeless story through a giftable assortment of nursery and décor items. 
  • Affordable beauty products, including limited-edition brushes from Sonia Kashuk, gift sets from PIXI by Petra, and exclusive bath and body products from brands like Bubble and Charm, Savannah Bee and more.

About Target
Minneapolis-based Target Corporation (NYSE: TGT) serves guests at 1,805 stores and at Target.com. Since 1946, Target has given 5 percent of its profit to communities, that giving equals more than $4 million a week. For more information, visit Target.com/Pressroom. For a behind-the-scenes look at Target, visit Target.com/abullseyeview or follow @TargetNews on Twitter.

SOURCE: Target Brands, Inc.

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Target: expanded digital tools, free shipping and returns as well as new international shipping options this holiday season

Target: expanded digital tools, free shipping and returns as well as new international shipping options this holiday season

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Grand opening of Best Buy’s new technology development center in Seattle

SEATTLE, 2015-10-30 — /EPR Retail News/ — State and local officials joined Best Buy in celebrating the grand opening of the company’s new technology development center in Seattle on Thursday.

The office, first announced in February, is focused on mobile development, cloud engineering and the omnichannel customer experience. About 25 employees work there, and there’s room to grow to 100 employees over time.

Best Buy expects this office to drive breakthrough innovation at incredible scale, building on its rapid e-commerce growth in recent quarters. The Seattle team is working in partnership with the existing team at Best Buy’s headquarters in Minneapolis.

“Our customers are shopping both at our stores and online, and we want to create a connected experience,” said Bala Subramanian, senior vice president and chief technology officer for Best Buy. “I’m very happy to say the work is well under way. We are very, very excited about the work we do here and how quickly our team has been able to bring innovative ideas to life.”

Gov. Jay Inslee thanked Best Buy “for bringing more Blue Shirts” to Washington. “We’re the Evergreen State, but we’re also the cloud capital of the world,” he said. “This is yet more evidence that the world is beating a path to our door to come to the greatest intellectual center of talent to make these companies grow.”

Seattle Mayor Ed Murray offered a warm welcome: “This is a great company, and you’ve chosen a great city to start this new chapter,” he said.

“Congratulations to everyone on this exciting center. I look forward to seeing the growth in employment and jobs, and your vitality here in Seattle,” said Suzanne Dale Estey, president and CEO of the Economic Development Council of Seattle and King County, a public-private partnership founded in 1971 to expand and diversify the local economy.

Since the Seattle office opened in May, Best Buy has made a variety of enhancements to its mobile apps, including:

  • A new in-app, live-chat feature called BlueAssist that brings expert service to the palm of the shoppers’ hands with the simple touch of a button (or a simple shake of the phone while in the app), whether they’re in a store or at home on the couch.
  • A redesigned Geek Squad app that makes it easier for customers identify the services offered and how to use them.
  • A new iPad app that’s launching soon.

The grand opening event concluded with a “digital ribbon-cutting” done via a mobile app.

SOURCE: Best Buy

 

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Best Buy Seattle Tech Development Center Grand Opening 2015. Featuring: Governor Jay Inslee, Washington State. Mayor Ed Murray, Seattle, Washington. Suzanne Dale Estey, President and CEO of the Economic Development Council of Seattle and King County Bala Subramanian, Senior Vice President & Chief Technology Officer, Best Buy Visit: http://www.bestbuy.com

Bala Subramanian, senior vice president and chief technology officer for Best Buy, left, and Washington Gov. Jay Inslee in Seattle on Thursday.

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St. Jude Thanks and Giving® campaign underway now at Best Buy

Imagine hearing the words, “Your child has cancer.”

Minneapolis, MN, 2015-10-30 — /EPR Retail News/ — It’s something no family should have to experience, and a journey no child should have to endure. Unfortunately, each year thousands of children across the country spend part of their childhood fighting to have a future.

But when you hear the words, “St. Jude can help,” and learn about the life-saving work being done every day at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital® … you also hear there is hope.

With the St. Jude Thanks and Giving® campaign underway now at Best Buy, the company continues its partnership in helping St. Jude find cures for children fighting cancer by accepting donations at more than 1,400 Best Buy store locations and online.

Through Jan. 2, donations of $1, $5, $10 or any other amount are being accepted at the registers of every Best Buy store in the U.S. and Puerto Rico (as well as in Magnolia, Pacific Sales and Best Buy Mobile Specialty stores) and at BestBuy.com.

Thanks to the generosity of Best Buy customers who gave nearly $10 million to St. Jude during last year’s holiday season, families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food – because all a family should worry about is helping their child live.

Funding provided to St. Jude also helps ensure it continues to lead the way the world understands, treats and defeats childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. Treatments developed at St. Jude have helped push the overall childhood cancer survival rate from 20 percent when the hospital opened in 1962 to more than 80 percent today – and St. Jude won’t stop until no child dies from cancer.

In this season of Thanks and Giving®, Best Buy is grateful for the generosity of customers helping St. Jude continue its life-saving mission: Finding cures. Saving children.®

SOURCE: Best Buy

 

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St. Jude Thanks and Giving® campaign underway now at Best Buy

St. Jude Thanks and Giving® campaign underway now at Best Buy

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Nachhaltigkeitswochen bei REWE und Nahkauf – Tüte spenden, Tafeln helfen

Nachhaltigkeitswochen bei REWE und Nahkauf – langjähriges Engagement

Köln, Germany, 2015-10-30 — /EPR Retail News/ — Eine immer größere Zahl an Menschen in Deutschland verfügen über so wenig Geld im Monat, dass sie sich nicht gesund und ausgewogen ernähren können. Ihnen helfen die Tafeln – und REWE unterstützt sie dabei: Lebensmittel im Wert von über einer Million Euro will das Handelsunternehmen gemeinsam mit den Kunden innerhalb von zwei Wochen (02.11 – 14.11.) spenden. Diese kommen bundesweit den über 900 lokalen Tafelorganisationen zugute.

Die Benefizaktion „Gemeinsam Teller füllen.“ ist Teil der REWE Nachhaltigkeitswochen, die die „soziale Verantwortung“ als zentrales Thema haben. Von Montag (02.11.) an rufen REWE und Nahkauf dazu auf, eine Tüte mit acht ja! Artikeln einzukaufen, um diese den örtlichen Tafeln zu spenden. Im Fokus der Aktion stehen Lebensmittel, die aufgrund ihrer langen Haltbarkeit eher selten gespendet werden: Spaghetti, Kartoffelpüree, Bockwürstchen, Weinsauerkraut, Tomatencremesuppe, Tee, Schokolade und Salzstangen. Die gepackten Lebensmittel sind zu einem Preis von 5 Euro im Markt erhältlich. Die Kundenspenden werden von REWE bundesweit um 40.000 Tüten mit Waren aufgestockt. Ehrenamtliche Tafel-Mitarbeiter holen anschließend die Lebensmittel ab und verteilen diese dann an Bedürftige – knapp ein Drittel davon sind Kinder und Jugendliche.

Die Tafeln und REWE verbindet eine langjährige Partnerschaft: Bereits seit 1996 geben die REWESupermärkte und Lager Lebensmittel, die nicht mehr verkauft, aber dennoch bedenkenlos verzehrt werden können, an die örtlichen Hilfsorganisationen kostenlos ab. Hinzu kommen finanzielle Spenden sowie die Organisation und Durchführung von Aktionen mit Beteiligung der Kunden. „Durch die Tafel-Aktionswochen haben unsere Kunden und REWE seit 2009 Lebensmittel im Wert von 6,6 Millionen Euro zusätzlich gespendet. Hilfe, die nach wie vor wichtig ist“, erklärt Lionel Souque, Vorstand der REWE Group und Vorsitzender der REWE Geschäftsführung. „Mit unserem Engagement geben wir jedem die Gelegenheit mit kleinem Aufwand wichtige Unterstützung zu leisten. Wir sind stolz, seit 19 Jahren Partner der Tafeln zu sein.“

„Wir sind sehr dankbar für die gute, langjährige Partnerschaft zwischen den Tafeln und REWE. In den vergangenen Monaten ist die Zahl der Menschen, die sich aus einer Notlage heraus hilfesuchend an die Tafeln wenden, um über 10 Prozent angewachsen. Denn für viele der Flüchtlinge, die in Deutschland Schutz suchen, sind die Tafeln eine erste Anlaufstelle. Diese steigende Herausforderung zeigt, wie unerlässlich das Engagement von starken Partnern wie REWE und seinen Kunden auch zukünftig sein wird. Wir bedanken uns bei jedem einzelnen Tüten-Spender“, sagt Jochen Brühl, Vorsitzender des Bundesverbandes Deutsche Tafel e.V.

Durch eine Vielzahl an Aktivitäten zeigt REWE ganzjährig soziale  Verantwortung. Sei es im Rahmen von Fairtrade- und UTZ-Produkten, der Unterstützung der heimischen Landwirtschaft durch den Ausbau regionaler und lokaler Sortimente oder durch Projekte, Sponsorings und Spendenaktionen zu Gunsten von Kindern und Jugendlichen, die Hilfe benötigen. Projekte des Naturschutzbund Deutschland (NABU) und dessen regionalen Vereinen standen im Mittelpunkt der vorangegangenen REWE Nachhaltigkeitswochen in 2015: Mit 400.000 Euro wurden Maßnahmen gefördert, die Bestände an  Streuobstwiesen sichern und wichtigen Lebensraum für Insekten schaffen.

Zudem hat REWE den „Deutschen Waldschutzfonds“ des NABU mit einem Beitrag für 120.000 Quadratmeter Wald unterstützt. Mit Hilfe des vom NABU initiierten Waldschutzfonds werden Waldflächen erworben, die sich zukünftig ohne menschlichen Eingriff entwickeln können. Unzählige Pflanzen-, Pilz- und Tierarten finden in diesen Wäldern eine Heimat.

Mit einem Umsatz von 16,9 Mrd. Euro (2014), mehr als 90.000 Mitarbeitern und weit über 3.000 REWE Märkten gehört die REWE Markt GmbH zu den führenden Unternehmen im deutschen Lebensmitteleinzelhandel. Die REWE Märkte werden als Filialen oder durch selbstständige REWE Kaufleute betrieben. REWE gehört zur genossenschaftlichen REWE Group, einer der führenden Handels- und Touristikkonzerne in Deutschland und Europa. Im Jahr 2014 erzielte das Unternehmen einen Gesamtaußenumsatz von über 51 Milliarden Euro. Die 1927 gegründete REWE Group ist mit ihren 330.000 Beschäftigten und 15.000 Märkten in 12 europäischen Ländern präsent. In Deutschland erwirtschafteten im Jahr 2014 rund 228.000 Mitarbeiter in rund 10.000 Märkten einen Umsatz von 37 Milliarden Euro.

Ansprechpartner:
Raimund Esser
Leiter Unternehmenskommunikation REWE Markt GmbH
Tel.: +49 221 149 1050
Mail: presse@rewe.de

SOURCE: REWE Group

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Nachhaltigkeitswochen bei REWE und Nahkauf – Tüte spenden, Tafeln helfen

Nachhaltigkeitswochen bei REWE und Nahkauf – Tüte spenden, Tafeln helfen

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12 Sozialprojekte aus unterschiedlichen BILLA Regionen mit dem internen Nachhaltigkeits-Award ausgezeichnet

Im Oktober wurden insgesamt 12 Sozialprojekte aus unterschiedlichen BILLA Regionen mit dem internen Nachhaltigkeits-Award ausgezeichnet. Zu den glücklichen Gewinnern zählt auch das Projekt von 10 Filialen aus Niederösterreich, die Waren an die, vom Roten Kreuz betreute, Team Österreich Tafel spendeten. Außerdem konnte dieses Nachhaltigkeitsprojekt auch das interne Mitarbeiter-Voting für sich entscheiden und spendete den Gewinn in Form von Waren ebenfalls an die Team Österreich Tafel.

Wiener Neudorf, Österreich, 2015-10-30 — /EPR Retail News/ — Seit Jahren setzt BILLA im Sinne der Nachhaltigkeit innovative Zeichen in den verschiedensten Bereichen. Ein besonders herausragendes Projekt ist die österreichweite BILLA Nachhaltigkeitsinitiative, die BILLA seit 2013 gemeinsam mit seinen Mitarbeitern realisiert. Unter dem Motto „Ideen für Morgen“ werden mit ganz konkreten Maßnahmen regionale Hilfsprojekte oder Sozialinitiativen unterstützt, aber auch nachhaltige Projekte in den Filialen umgesetzt. Vor wenigen Wochen wurden 12 Siegerprojekte mit dem BILLA Nachhaltigkeits-Award ausgezeichnet. Darunter war auch das Projekt von Regionalmanager Martin Marisch, bei dem insgesamt 10 niederösterreichische BILLA Filialen teilgenommen haben.

Warenspenden für die Team Österreich Tafel
Im vergangenen April starteten die 10 BILLA Filialen in Matzen, Angern an der March, Laa an der Thaya, Dürnkrut, Zistersdorf, Hohenau an der March, Poysdorf und drei Filialen in Mistelbach ihr Nachhaltigkeitsprojekt. Im Zuge des BILLA Nachhaltigkeits-Awards konnten Kunden für den Zeitraum einer Woche Waren aus dem gesamten Sortiment erwerben, die dann direkt an die Team Österreich Tafel Mistelbach, Zistersdorf und Gänserndorf gespendet wurden. Beworben wurde diese Aktion mit Plakaten in den Filialen. „Es war schön zu sehen, wie das Projekt unter den Kunden angenommen wurde und in diesem kurzen Zeitraum Waren im Wert von rund 1.000 Euro gespendet wurden“, erzählt BILLA Regionalmanager Martin Marisch gefragt nach dem Ergebnis des Projekts.

Nachhaltigkeits-Award und Sieger des Mitarbeiter-Votings
Anfang Oktober wurde die Spendenaktion der niederösterreichischen BILLA Filialen für ihr Engagement mit dem BILLA Nachhaltigkeits-Award ausgezeichnet. Zusätzlich zu dieser Ehrung konnte das Projekt auch beim internen Mitarbeiter-Voting überzeugen, was mit einem Gutschein im Wert von 1.000 Euro honoriert wurde. Dieser Betrag wurde dafür aufgewendet neuerlich Waren für die Team Österreich Tafel zu spenden. Vergangene Woche konnten so vor allem dringend benötigte Hygieneartikel an das Rote Kreuz übergeben werden.

Mit sozialem Engagement zum BILLA Nachhaltigkeits-Award
Neben den Nachhaltigen Wochen, bei denen BILLA jedes Jahr im September sein nachhaltiges Engagement in den Fokus stellt, werden auch die Mitarbeiter dazu angehalten sich sozial zu engagieren. Mit dem BILLA Nachhaltigkeits-Award werden daher jährlich regionale Projekte ausgezeichnet, die einen besonderen Einsatz in den Bereichen Soziales und Umwelt aufweisen. In der Vergangenheit konnten so schon einige nachhaltige Maßnahmen gefunden werden, die durch Innovationskraft und Effektivität dermaßen überzeugten, dass sie flächendeckend zum Einsatz kamen, darunter z.B. das Projekt „Lehrlinge führen die Filiale“ oder auch eine Zeitschaltuhr, die Strom sparen hilft. Im vergangenen Jahr hat die Kärntner Region den BILLA Nachhaltigkeits-Award für ihr Engagement für das SOS Kinderdorf Moosburg erhalten.

In der Region Menschen in Not helfen
Nach dem Motto „Verteilen statt Vernichten“ versorgt BILLA seit 2006 rund 160 nationale und regionale Einrichtungen mit Lebensmitteln, deren Mindesthaltbarkeitsdatum überschritten, die aber noch verzehrbar sind. Bereits 85 Prozent aller BILLA Filialen haben derartige Kooperationen mit sozialen Einrichtungen.

Bildtext zum übermittelten Bildmaterial:
Bild (1) (v.l.n.r.): Klaus Geer (Rotes Kreuz Zistersdorf), Rudolf Ruck (Rotes Kreuz Zistersdorf), Bernhard Seidl (Rotes Kreuz Gänserndorf), Maria Schrahvogl (Rotes Kreuz Gänserndorf), Martin Marisch (BILLA Regionalmanager), Hans Trischak (Rotes Kreuz Mistelbach) und Franz Lembacher (Rotes Kreuz Mistelbach) bei der Warenübergabe

Credits: BILLA AG/ Dusek, Abdruck zu PR-Zwecken honorarfrei.

Über BILLA
BILLA und Österreich verbindet seit mehr als 60 Jahren eine einzigartige Erfolgsgeschichte: Als Pionier im heimischen Lebensmittelhandel sorgt BILLA dafür, dass in ganz Österreich täglich Lebensmittel und Produkte zu einem fairen Preis verfügbar sind. BILLA deckt damit als Nahversorger mit Hausverstand die ganze Range an Produkten ab: Das Angebot reicht von einer breiten Palette an Markenartikeln bis zu den erfolgreichen Eigenmarken, darunter die Ja! Natürlich Bio-Produkte, qualitativ hochwertige Produkte der BILLA Eigenmarke, bis hin zur Diskontlinie clever®. BILLA arbeitet ständig am Produktsortiment und Serviceangebot, um so den Bedürfnissen der Menschen in Österreich gerecht zu werden und diesen tagtäglich ein kulinarisches Erlebnis zu bieten.

BILLA gehört zur REWE International AG und ist Teil von einem der größten Lebensmittelhändler Europas. Nachhaltigkeit hat BILLA in seiner Unternehmensstrategie umfassend verankert: Heute sind rund 350 der mehr als 1.000 BILLA-Filialen in Österreich energieeffizient. Weitere zentrale Themen der BILLA-Unternehmensstrategie sind Gesundheit und die Förderung von verstärktem Ernährungsbewusstsein der Österreicherinnen und Österreicher. Der Verantwortung gegenüber seinen treuen Kunden, rund 18.400 Mitarbeitern und langjährigen Partnern wird BILLA auf vielfache Art und Weise gerecht.

»Wer nicht von gestern sein will, beschäftigt sich mit morgen«, sagt der Hausverstand

Mehr Infos unter: www.billa.at oder www.billashop.at Besuchen Sie uns auch auf Facebook unter https://www.facebook.com/billa.at

Rückfragehinweis: Team Media Relations REWE International AG, Industriezentrum NÖ-Süd, Straße 3, Objekt 16, A-2355 Wiener Neudorf Tel.: +43 2236 600 5265, E-Mail: mediarelations@rewe-group.at

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BILLA bringt iBeacons – die neue Welt des Einkaufens

Ab sofort können BILLA Kunden an insgesamt elf Standorten in Wien und Niederösterreich Shopping der neuen Generation erleben. Denn BILLA bietet im Zuge eines Pilotprojekts als erster Supermarkt Österreichs via BILLA App die Möglichkeit über das Smartphone Angebote und Informationen direkt in der Filiale zu erhalten.

iBeacons – die neue Welt des Einkaufens

WIEN, Österreich, 2015-10-30 — /EPR Retail News/ — BILLA beweist erneut Innovationsfreude und bringt im Zuge eines neuen Pilotprojekts bis vorerst Ende Jänner iBeacons in seine Filialen. iBeacons sind kleine Sender, die über Bluetooth mit anderen Geräten verbunden werden. Diese sind für geschlossene Räume konzipiert, da sie nur einen Senderadius von wenigen Metern haben. Bei BILLA kommunizieren die iBeacons nur mit Smartphones, auf denen die BILLA App installiert wurde und Bluetooth aktiviert ist. Sofern Sie in der App aktiv Ihre Zustimmung geben, dass Sie Informationen erhalten möchten, bekommen Sie über diese iBeacons Inhalte angezeigt, sobald Sie sich in der Filiale in der Nähe eines iBeacons befinden. So können Sie relevante, standortbezogene und topaktuelle Inhalte und Aktionen, wie zum Beispiel ein Rabattbon zu einem Produkt, in dessen Nähe Sie sich gerade aufhalten, direkt im Supermarkt erhalten.

iBeacons für Wien und Niederösterreich

Konkret können Sie sich ab sofort in folgenden Filialen über neue Einkaufserlebnisse freuen:

Herrnhuterhaus Neuer Markt 17, 1010 Wien
Ringstraßengalerien, Kärntner Ring 9-13, 1010 Wien
Praterstern, 1020 Wien
Rilkeplatz 1, 1040 Wien
Weyringergasse 31, 1040 Wien
Linke Wienzeile 18, 1060 Wien
Alser Straße 4, 1090 Wien
Brünnerstraße 219-221, 1210 Wien
Karl-Tornaygasse 38, 1230 Wien
SCS, 2334 Vösendorf
Hondastraße, 2355 Wr. Neudorf

Relevante Informationen direkt aufs Smartphone

Um iBeacon-Informationen zu erhalten, aktivieren Sie bitte Bluetooth auf Ihrem Smartphone. Weiters benötigt die BILLA App Zugriff auf Ihren aktuellen Standort sowie die Erlaubnis, Ihnen Nachrichten senden zu dürfen. Unter „Einstellungen“ im Menü Ihres iPhones oder den App-Einstellungen auf Ihrem Android-Smartphone können Sie diese Punkte aktivieren. Beim ersten Öffnen der BILLA App können Sie dieser erlauben, Ihnen iBeacon-Mitteilungen zu senden. Wenn Sie diese Option ändern möchten, können Sie dies unter „Einstellungen“ im Menü Ihrer BILLA App tun. Achten Sie darauf, dass das Betriebssystem Ihres Smartphones auf dem neuesten Stand und die BILLA App installiert und aktualisiert ist. Um alle Vorteile nutzen zu können, benötigen Sie auch eine aufrechte Internetverbindung (z.B. 3G).

iBeacon-Mitteilungen können auch ohne BILLA Vorteils-Club Karte empfangen werden. Um alle Vorteile nutzen zu können, empfehlen wir jedoch, mit einem aktivierten Vorteils-Club Konto in der BILLA App eingeloggt zu sein. Sollten Sie Ihre Vorteils-Club Karte noch nicht aktiviert haben, so können Sie HIER Ihren Aktivierungscode anfordern.

Sollten Sie sich dazu entscheiden keine iBeacon-Informationen mehr erhalten zu wollen, so können Sie jederzeit Ihre Zustimmung unter “Einstellungen” in der BILLA App widerrufen.

Falls Sie noch weitere Fragen zu iBeacons haben, zögern Sie nicht uns unter hotline@billa.at zu kontaktieren.

SOURCE: Billa AG

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BILLA bringt iBeacons - die neue Welt des Einkaufens

BILLA bringt iBeacons – die neue Welt des Einkaufens

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Indonesia: PT Matahari Putra Prima Tbk (MPPA) opened the 112th Hypermart outlet at Pentacity Mall Balikpapan

Lippo Village, Tangerang, INDONESIA, 2015-10-30 — /EPR Retail News/ — PT Matahari Putra Prima Tbk (MPPA), a multi-format modern retailer in Indonesia, which operates Hypermart, Foodmart and Boston Health & Beauty, today has opened the 112th Hypermart outlet at Pentacity Mall Balikpapan. The new outlet with a selling area of 3,200 m² is located in a super-block area that combines both residential and commercial buildings.

Hypermart Pentacity Mall is the 12th Hypermart outlet in Kalimantan and also become the 3rd outlet in the province of East Kalimantan. Balikpapan city rated among the businessmen as one of the highest potential investment destination. It is not surprising that there are many new investment developments in Balikpapan, including the projects of Pentacity development.

Director of Public Relations & Communications MPPA, Danny Kojongian stated, “The opening of the 112th store at Pentacity Balikpapan is part of Hypermart new stores expansion plan in 2015. Besides that, MPPA has also done some other renovations on Hypermart outlets to further strengthen the position of MPPA as a modern multi-format retailer in Indonesia.”

For further information, please contact:
Phoa Marchea Trenggono,
Investor Relations & Communications Officer
marchea.phoa@mppa.co.in

Danny Kojongian,
Director of Public Relations & Communications
danny.kojongian@hypermart.co.id

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Indonesia: PT Matahari Putra Prima Tbk (MPPA) opened the 112th Hypermart outlet at Pentacity Mall Balikpapan

Indonesia: PT Matahari Putra Prima Tbk (MPPA) opened the 112th Hypermart outlet at Pentacity Mall Balikpapan

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SM Partners Summit: brick-and-mortar malls will thrive despite explosion of digital formats

Pasay City, Philippines, 2015-10-30 — /EPR Retail News/ — Malls, which belong to the so-called “brick-and-mortar” businesses, will continue to “click” despite the evolving retail landscape which is enabled by the explosion of digital formats. Speakers attested to this during the recently held SM Partners Summit in line with SM Supermalls’ 30th Anniversary, with the theme, “Bricks Click” at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay.

Addressing retail partners at the summit, SM Prime Holdings President Hans T. Sy said that brick and mortar businesses like shopping centers are continuously challenged by “clicks” or online formats and social media.

“As you all know, much has happened since we opened our first mall thirty years ago – – the retail landscape has become more global and competitive, technology has forever changed the way we live and do things, and customer tastes have changed along with the times,” Sy said.

According to Sy, brick-and-mortar businesses like shopping malls have evolved with the times, surviving major and economic political shifts and changing the Filipino lifestyle.

In 1985, SM Founder Henry Sy,Sr. opened his first shopping mall, SM City North EDSA after seeing that suburbs in the United States were being built in the outskirts of big cities, with a shopping mall as the center. Sy believed that this would also happen in the Philippines.

“When we started building SM City North EDSA in 1983, people thought my father was crazy.  There was a political crisis; interest rates were as high as 45%, and the location of the mall was in the middle of nowhere.  They said that SM City would not succeed, but the mall was an instant success.  And the rest, as they say is history.  And that is why we are all here today after thirty years,” the younger Sy said.

Malling became more of a phenomenon when SM Megamall in Mandaluyong was built in 1991 amidst an energy crisis. Once again, the mall’s success affirmed the competitive business model that Mr. Sy developed.

SM soon opened SM City Cebu in November 1993, its first provincial mall, which was followed by an aggressive expansion program in key cities around the country.

In 2006, SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City was opened, SM’s premiere mall destination in the region. It soon introduced more upscale projects like SM Aura Premier in Taguig and expanded Megamall in 2014 with the Mega Fashion Hall.

“We have seen changing lifestyles in a world that is more global in perspective, and more technologically advanced and environmentally concerned. But together, we have changed the Filipino lifestyle forever,” Sy said.

Steven Tan, Senior Vice President of SM Supermalls said that today’s breed of shoppers are not the “shop and go” types. “Right now they’re very experimental. They really want the experience,” he said.

In order to cater to this new breed and to enhance the shopping experience, SM has introduced more international retail brands, more interesting food concepts as well as services geared towards enhancing wellness and providing greater convenience. These include spas, dental clinics, and waxing salons, to name a few.

“You have to make sure that your brands are competitive. There are still people who want to see and feel what they’re buying. You have to make sure that your malls are lifestyle centers. You have to be ready. Change is going to come. You just have to be fast and quick in evolving,” Tan said.

Catering to the changing preferences of shoppers, Tan said that SM has increased its food tenants over the years. “When I joined SM Supermalls some 11 years ago, the food ratio is 5% of the tenant mix. Right now, the food ratio is 30%, can you imagine that from a low of 5%,” Tan said.

As further proof that bricks do click, SM malls also introduced Cyberzone, the ultimate technology and lifestyle center which provides service centers and consumer electronics at a convenient location. It was in SM North Edsa where the “Cyberzone” was conceptualized and eventually became a standard in most SM malls. It is also home to more than 1,800 inline stores and kiosks.  It also features over 50 concept stores with international names like Apple Premium Resellers (Power Mac, iStudio, iStore), Samsung, Sony, LG, Lenovo, HP, Acer, and local players such as MyPhone, Cherry Mobile, Star Mobile, Cloudfone, and Halo Accessories. It also houses the largest collection of top IT brands in the country and is the venue for the most exclusive events in information technology.

Through its retail arm, SM is exploring e-commerce to provide its shoppers with more choices and convenience. Even with the onslaught of online formats, SM continues to enhance its lifestyle malls to provide shoppers a more exciting and educational experience.

Sy said that SM’s iconic malls will soon undergo changes to transform the malling experience to “a whole new level”. The Podium in Ortigas, which is a venture with SM Keppel Land, Inc., will elevate the lifestyle scene with premium retail and dining.  He also said that the SM Mall of Asia will break boundaries with an expansion plan that includes a rooftop botanical garden, a football field, a vast lifestyle area lit by a stuning sunset, a Galleon Museum and a theater for the performing arts.

“All in all, we plan to develop four to five new malls in the Philippines each year, with our long- term goal of having 100 malls around the country.  That sounds like an impossible dream, but with your support we know we will be able to achieve this,” Sy told retail partners.

Motivational speaker Francis Kong who was also a speaker at the SM Partners Summit also said that the “touch, try and feel” culture of Filipinos will never make the brick and mortar businesses “go away”. “Filipinos want an immersive experience. The malls provide a holistic experience. SM’s business is in the totality of the experience, that’s why you will continue to grow,” Kong said.

SOURCE: SM Investments Corporation

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SM Partners Summit: brick-and-mortar malls will thrive despite explosion of digital formats

SM Partners Summit: brick-and-mortar malls will thrive despite explosion of digital formats

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Advance Auto Parts, Inc. to report its 3rd quarter results before market open on Thursday, November 12, 2015

ROANOKE, Va., 2015-10-30 — /EPR Retail News/ — Advance Auto Parts, Inc. (NYSE: AAP), the largest automotive aftermarket parts provider in North America, serving both professional installer and do-it-yourself customers, will report its third quarter results before market open on Thursday, November 12, 2015. The Company will detail its results on a conference call scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. Eastern Time on Thursday, November 12, 2015, which will be made available concurrently on the Company’s website, www.AdvanceAutoParts.com. The call is also available by dialing (866) 908-1AAP. The pass code is Advance Auto Parts. A replay of the conference call will be available on the Advance website for one year.

About Advance Auto Parts
Headquartered in Roanoke, Va., Advance Auto Parts, Inc., the largest automotive aftermarket parts provider inNorth America, serves both professional installer and do-it-yourself customers. As of July 18, 2015, Advance operated 5,252 stores and 117 Worldpac branches and served approximately 1,300 independently owned Carquest branded stores in the United States, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Canada. Advance employs approximately 76,000 Team Members. Additional information about the Company, employment opportunities, customer services, and on-line shopping for parts, accessories and other offerings can be found on the Company’s website at www.AdvanceAutoParts.com.

Source: Advance Auto Parts, Inc.

Advance Auto Parts, Inc.
Media Contact
Laurie Stacy, 540-561-8452
laurie.stacy@advanceautoparts.com
or
Investor Contact
Zaheed Mawani, 919-573-3848
zaheed.mawani@advanceautoparts.com

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DICK’S Sporting Goods opens 4th store in New Mexico and 646th store nationwide on Friday, Nov 6

Special Appearance Saturday by Rod Smith

PITTSBURGH, 2015-10-30 — /EPR Retail News/ — DICK’S Sporting Goods (NYSE: DKS), the largest U.S.-based, full-line omni-channel sporting goods retailer, will be opening its fourth store in New Mexico and 646thstore nationwide on Friday, November 6th at Farmington Pavilion in Farmington, NM (5050 Main Street).

DICK’S three-day grand opening celebration will run through Sunday, November 8th. The store will open at 8:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday and 9:00 a.m. Sunday.

On Friday, the first 100 people in line will be eligible for a free Reebok Play Dry® T-Shirt. Guests who are in line at 7:45 a.m. on Friday will get a chance to open the DICK’S Sporting Goods Gift Locker.*

Former wide receiver Rod Smith** will make an in-store appearance from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Saturday.

Saturday and Sunday giveaways include a free Mystery Gift Card from $5 to $500 for the first 100 adults in line. Guests who are in line at 7:45 a.m. Saturday and 8:45 a.m. on Sunday will also get a chance to open the DICK’S Sporting Goods Gift Locker.*

“DICK’S Sporting Goods is excited to become a member of the Farmington community with the opening of our newest location,” said Lauren Hobart, Executive Vice President & Chief Marketing Officer, DICK’S Sporting Goods. “We look forward to serving the athletes and outdoor enthusiasts in Farmington and inspiring them to achieve their personal best.”

The new location will feature Nike and Under Armour shops, athletic and outdoor apparel and footwear and the latest gear for team sports, fitness, camping, hunting and fishing. More than 40 in-store services by DICK’S certified PROS in sports and outdoor specialties such as bike, golf and fishing will also be available.

Visit DICKS.com/Farmington for details and LIKE DICK’S Sporting Goods on Facebook for the latest information on local appearances, special events and brand activations.

*NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Purchase does not improve chance of winning. Limit one t-shirt, mystery gift card and/or gift locker combination per person, per day. Must be 18+ for gift card and gift locker promotions. See store or DICKS.com/Farmington for details and odds of winning.

**Wristband required for autograph.  Wristbands will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis on the day of event only.  Limit one per person. Visit DICKS.com/Farmington for details.

About DICK’S Sporting Goods, Inc.
Founded in 1948, DICK’S Sporting Goods, Inc. is a leading omni-channel sporting goods retailer offering an extensive assortment of authentic, high-quality sports equipment, apparel, footwear and accessories. As of August 1, 2015, the Company operated more than 615 DICK’S Sporting Goods locations, serving and inspiring athletes and outdoor enthusiasts to achieve their personal best through a blend of dedicated associates, in-store services and unique specialty shop-in-shops.  Headquartered in Pittsburgh, PA, DICK’S also owns and operates Golf Galaxy, Field & Stream, True Runner and Chelsea Collective specialty stores. For more information, visit the Press Room at DICKS.com.

Contact: DICK’S Sporting Goods – press@dcsg.com

SOURCE: DICK’S Sporting Goods

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DICK’S Sporting Goods to open its relocated store next week at Boulevard Mall in Amherst, NY

Celebration to Take Place on Saturday, November 7th  

PITTSBURGH, 2015-10-30 — /EPR Retail News/ — DICK’S Sporting Goods (NYSE: DKS), the largest U.S. based full-line omni-channel sporting goods retailer, will be opening its relocated store next week at Boulevard Mall in Amherst, NY (640 Alberta Drive).

DICK’S will be celebrating the Grand Re-Opening beginning at 9 a.m. on Saturday, November 7th. Customers are invited to participate in the festivities.

The store was originally located at 281 Meyer Road. Enhancements to the new location will include expanded Brand Shops, a Women’s Studio Apparel Department, a Soccer Shop, Lacrosse Shop and Baseball Shop. Customers can also experience a new, expanded footwear presentation, expanded assortment and enhanced service to meet their needs and make their shopping experience more convenient.

Other enhancements such as wider aisles and clearly identifiable destinations for the brands shops will greatly improve customers’ ability to navigate the store and an improved checkout experience.

Guests in line early on Sunday will receive a unique combination for a chance to open the DICK’S Sporting Goods Gift Locker at 8:45 a.m.*

“We’re pleased to be opening an expanded and enhanced DICK’S Sporting Goods in Amherst, which will enable us to better serve the needs of athletes in the community,” said Lauren Hobart, Executive Vice President & Chief Marketing Officer, DICK’S Sporting Goods.  “With our unsurpassed customer service and the best equipment in the industry, we look forward to continued success in the market and to welcoming customers to this new store.”

LIKE DICK’S Sporting Goods on Facebook at facebook.com/dickssportinggoods to learn about more local activations, special events and brand activations.

*NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Purchase does not improve chance of winning. Limit one gift locker combination per person. Must be 18+ for gift locker promotion. See store for details and odds of winning

About DICK’S Sporting Goods, Inc.
Founded in 1948, DICK’S Sporting Goods, Inc. is a leading omni-channel sporting goods retailer offering an extensive assortment of authentic, high-quality sports equipment, apparel, footwear and accessories. As of August 1, 2015, the Company operated more than 615 DICK’S Sporting Goods locations, serving and inspiring athletes and outdoor enthusiasts to achieve their personal best through a blend of dedicated associates, in-store services and unique specialty shop-in-shops.  Headquartered in Pittsburgh, PA, DICK’S also owns and operates Golf Galaxy, Field & Stream, True Runner and Chelsea Collective specialty stores. For more information, visit the Press Room at DICKS.com.

Contact: DICK’S Sporting Goods – press@dcsg.com

SOURCE: DICK’S Sporting Goods

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QVC launched its app for Apple TV

WEST CHESTER, Pa. and CHISWICK, UK, 2015-10-30 — /EPR Retail News/ — QVC, the global leader in video and ecommerce retail, has announced the launch of its app for Apple TV, offering QVC customers more ways to discover its unique, ever-changing curation of people, places and finds. Customers can also make purchases directly through Apple TV with just a click of the remote. QVC for Apple TV will be available in the U.S. immediately upon the release of the all-new Apple TV, with U.K. and Germany to follow in the coming weeks.

“As consumers continue to view television programming in new and diverse ways, we are excited to leverage the video and commerce capabilities of Apple’s TvOS to help our customers further engage with the QVC community,” said Alex Miller, senior vice president, digital commerce at QVC. “This new offering demonstrates our ongoing commitment to bringing the QVC experience to life on today’s most innovative platforms.”

After downloading the QVC app from the App Store for Apple TV, QVC customers will be able to view live programming on QVC as well as QVC PLUS®, the retailer’s second broadcast channel in the U.S. that offers unique live and pre-produced programming. From beloved hosts like David Venable of In the Kitchen with David®, to new and exciting brand launches such as H by Halston, customers will have access to all of their favorite programming, as well as special events and shows leading into the holiday season.

For a streamlined purchasing experience, a “speed buy” button shown directly on screen during programming will allow registered customers to instantly view product details and purchase the item being showcased with one click or tap of their finger, without having to enter their credit card and shipping information. Customers can also browse through the product carousel at the bottom of the screen to view additional details and purchase items previously featured on-air.

“With the all-new tvOS operating system, we were able to create an innovative, immersive shopping experience on Apple TV,” said Venkatesh Natarajan, vice president of IT commerce platforms at QVC. “QVC Apple TV will continue to evolve, offering new features and capabilities over time.”

Earlier this year, QVC introduced the QVC for Apple Watch® app concurrently with Apple Watch availability, enabling customers to view, with a quick glance at their wrist, QVC’s most popular content — the item currently on-air and the Today’s Special Value®, QVC’s best find of the day.

In 2014, QVC introduced Apple’s Touch IDTM sensor technology on the QVC app for iPhone®, giving customers the option to log in to their QVC accounts with the tap of a finger. QVC also introduced new second screen features on its QVC app for iPad®, enabling live broadcast viewing in the app and synchronizing product display in the app with the item being shown on air, establishing the iPad’s use as a companion device to live programming.

The QVC app for iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch and now Apple TV are available for free on the respective App stores. New Apple TV owners can download the QVC app from the App Store for Apple TV.

About QVC
QVC, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Liberty Interactive Corporation (NASDAQ: QVCA, QVCB), is the world’s leading video and ecommerce retailer. QVC is committed to providing its customers with thousands of the most innovative and contemporary beauty, fashion, jewelry and home products. Its programming is distributed to approximately 340 million homes worldwide through operations in theU.S., Japan, Germany, United Kingdom, Italy, France and a joint venture in China. Based in West Chester, Pa. and founded in 1986,QVC has evolved from a TV shopping company to a leading ecommerce and mobile commerce retailer. The company’s website, QVC.com, is ranked among the top general merchant Internet sites. QVC, Q, and the Q Ribbon Logo are registered service marks of ER Marks, Inc.

Media Inquiries:
484.701.1647
media.relations@qvc.com

SOURCE: QVC, Inc.

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Harris Teeter opens in Fort Mill, S.C. on November 13, 2015

Company to Celebrate Grand Opening with Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Fort Mill, S.C., 2015-10-30 — /EPR Retail News/ — Harris Teeter is proud to welcome customers to its Springfield Town Center Fuel Center on Friday, November 13, 2015 at 10 a.m. as the company celebrates its grand opening with a ribbon cutting ceremony.

Harris Teeter currently operates one Fuel Center in Charleston, S.C., which the Company took ownership of in 2013; however, this is the first Fuel Center Harris Teeter has built independently.

The Fuel Center is located in close proximity to the Springfield Town Center Harris Teeter which opened in March 2015.

Harris Teeter’s current fuel promotion – $10 off a $50 fuel gift card when purchasing $50 or more in groceries – will now include Harris Teeter Fuel Center gift cards in addition to the Shell and BP fuel gift cards which are currently part of the promotion.

Fast Facts

 Store Address Springfield Town Center
412 Mercantile Place
Fort Mill, S.C. 29715
Grand Opening Date Friday, November 13, 2015
Grand Opening Time 10 a.m., ribbon cutting, store open immediately following
Store Hours staffed daily from 6 a.m. – 10 p.m.; fuel available for purchase by debit/credit card 24 hours
Square Footage 240
Fuel Dispensers Seven
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Charleston, SC: Harris Teeter to welcome shoppers to its James Island Center location on Wed, Nov 11, 2015

Company to Celebrate Grand Opening with Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Charleston, S.C., 2015-10-30 — /EPR Retail News/ — Harris Teeter is proud to welcome shoppers to its James Island Center location on Wednesday, November 11, 2015 at 8 a.m. as the company celebrates its grand opening with a ribbon cutting ceremony. This will be Harris Teeter’s sixth location in Charleston, S.C.

In each of its stores, Harris Teeter strives to offer customers an excellent shopping experience, which begins with customer service and features high-quality products, variety and selection.  Harris Teeter also works to be a true community partner by supporting local schools and youth sports organizations, among other non-profit organizations.

Fast Facts

Store Address James Island Center
1739 Maybank Highway
Charleston, SC 29412
Grand Opening Date Wednesday, November 11, 2015
Grand Opening Time 8 a.m., ribbon cutting, store open immediately following
Store Hours open daily from 6 a.m. – midnight
Square Footage 43,000
Check-Out Lanes Seven checkouts and four express checkouts

Features and Departments
Full-service Butchers Market with Rancher Beef, HT Reserve Angus Beef and HT Naturals Beef • Full-service Fishermans Market • Shrimp Party Trays • Farmers Market Produce • Full-Service Floral and Custom Floral Arrangements •  Produce Party Trays • Gift Basket Program • Full-service Fresh Foods Market Deli/Bakery • Sushi • Self-Serve Olives • Salad Bar • International Cheeses • Chef Prepared Foods To Go  • Custom Cakes and Ice Cream Cakes • Hot Foods Bar • Sub Shop • Made to Order Sandwich Program  • Artisan Breads • Italian Meat Selection • Boar’s Head Meats and Cheeses  • Fresh Made Salads • Fresh Made Pizza • Home Meal Replacements • Organic, and Natural Foods  • Wine and Beer • International and Specialty Foods  • Gift Basket Program • Double Coupons • Club 60 Discount • Carryout Service • Parcel Pick-up •  USCAN • Western Union • Coinstar • Rug Doctor • Express Lane Online Shopping • Red Box DVD Rental Kiosk •  Starbucks •Sit-down eating area • ATM

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Harris Teeter continues its annual Harvest Feast Food Drive and Donation Card Campaign to aid local hunger-relief efforts

Company Accepting Monetary Donations at Registers, Conducting Food Drive in Lobbies

MATTHEWS, NC, 2015-10-30 — /EPR Retail News/ — Beginning Sunday, Nov. 1, 2015, Harris Teeter will continue its annual Harvest Feast Food Drive and Donation Card Campaign to aid local hunger-relief efforts. Throughout the entire month of November, Harris Teeter will collect non-perishable food items in the lobby of each location and sell $1, $5 and $20 donation cards at check-out to benefit its hunger-relief partners.

In November 2014, the Harvest Feast campaign collected $594,000, producing more than 5.94 million* meals for those facing hunger. The Company hopes to raise even more money during this year’s campaign as, according to Feeding America, one in every seven Americans struggle with hunger. Since 2005, this campaign has raised over $3.4 million.

“We are continuously overwhelmed by the generosity of our valued associates and shoppers who help us provide millions of meals to our community members-in-need each year,” said Danna Robinson, communication manager for Harris Teeter. “Fighting hunger is Harris Teeter’s number one giving priority, so we are proud to offer our associates and shoppers an easy way to fight local hunger by purchasing a donation card at our registers or taking advantage of our everyday low prices to purchase food for donation.”

This year, Harris Teeter is partnering with 19 agencies throughout its marketing areas. These agencies work year-round to fight hunger.  Both Harris Teeter’s food bank and food pantry partners are assigned stores within their service areas.

“It is important to remind our shoppers that every dollar or food item they donate at their Harris Teeter will go directly to serving hungry families within their community,” said Robinson.

The success of Harris Teeter’s Harvest Feast campaign hinges on the generosity of its loyal shoppers and valued associates. No donation is too big or small, and Harris Teeter hopes for continued participation again in 2015.

To learn more about the partners involved in Harvest Feast, please click here.

The company would also like to thank its media partners Comcast, Cox Cable and WBTV for assisting with promotion of the food drive and donation card campaign.

*Feeding America, 2014

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Harris Teeter continues its annual Harvest Feast Food Drive and Donation Card Campaign to aid local hunger-relief efforts

Harris Teeter continues its annual Harvest Feast Food Drive and Donation Card Campaign to aid local hunger-relief efforts

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San Francisco International Airport commenced Request for Proposals (RFP) process for Terminal 3 Pop-Up Retail Concession Program

SAN FRANCISCO,  2015-10-30 — /EPR Retail News/ — San Francisco International Airport has commenced the Request for Proposals (RFP) process for the Terminal 3 Pop-Up Retail Concession Program, and invites you to attend the informational conference scheduled for Tuesday, November 10, 2015, at 10:00 a.m. at the Terminal 2 Partnering Conference Room Number T2-2-205, at San Francisco International Airport. This is a time when staff will describe the selection process, discuss the program elements, minimum qualification requirements, address any questions relating to this program and receive comments from participants.

This opportunity is comprised of one retail location totaling approximately 304 square feet in post-security Terminal 3, Boarding Area E. The space will be move-in ready with fixtures provided, and will require minimal costs to start up. The successful proposer will be offered an agreement term of twelve months. This concession is intended for the nonexclusive sale of retail merchandise reflective of the Greater San Francisco Bay Area. Small and local businesses are encouraged to participate.

Additional information and related documents may be obtained online at Current Opportunities. For a hard copy of the RFP document or if you would like additional information about this concession opportunity, please contact Mr. Trevor Brumm at Revenue Development and Management, at 650.821.4500.

S-F-O

About San Francisco International Airport
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) offers non-stop flights to more than 39 international cities on 33 international carriers. The Bay Area’s largest airport connects non-stop with 77 cities in the U.S. on 13 domestic airlines. SFO is proud to offer upgraded free Wi-Fi with no advertising. For up-to-the-minute departure and arrival information, airport maps and details on shopping, dining, cultural exhibitions, ground transportation and more, visit www.flysfo.com. Follow us on www.twitter.com/flysfo and www.facebook.com/flysfo.

CONTACT: Doug Yakel
Public Information Officer
Communications & Marketing
San Francisco International Airport
650.821.4000
Doug.Yakel@flysfo.com
 

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DeLclima rides the wave of change in retailing thanks to advanced HVAC systems

DeLclima, riding the wave of change in retailing thanks to advanced HVAC systems, is the ideal partner for the biggest retail chains

Treviso, Italy, 2015-10-30 — /EPR Retail News/ — The world of retail is always testing new strategies to increase customer satisfaction and attract new ones. Until a few years ago, shoppers based their choices on store convenience, today statistics show that they are more and more interested in instore services and brand values. A growing number of stores are extending opening hours and organizing events, so transforming shopping malls into theatres. Another trend is the green values and ethics communication.

In this context, where the length of a customer’s visit is increased, it becomes essential on the one hand to ensure client comfort and on the other to contain the operating costs and the environmental impact of the structures, thus demonstrating the reality of the commitment to the environment. Anefficient, flexible, advanced and reliable air conditioning system helps to achieve all these goals.

In general cooling and heating represents between 44% and 48% of total energy use. By installing high efficiency heating and cooling systems, like DeLclima’s, retailers can reduce energy costs by up to 40% and reduce carbon emissions. There are several cases of big retailers chosing Delclima units to go in this direction.

Corio Group for the new shopping center Nave de Vero in Venice did not hesitate when choosing DeLclima chillers and heat pumps. With an area of ​​55,000 m2 and materials such as steel, glass, wood and stone, the shopping mall with a futuristic design every night turns into a theatre hosting events of all kinds. The decision to install DeLclima units along with a photovoltaic system in the parking area and solar panels on the roof, allowed Nave de Vero to cut energy consumption by 60%, as well as being the first shopping center in Italy to have received BREEAM certification ad interim.

Also Carrefour chose DeLclima but this time the purpose was to improve environmental sustainability. The French retailer, with 10,860 stores in 33 countries, is accompanying the new openings with the replacement of air-conditioning systems in Italian stores with the aim of reducing CO2 emissions and improving energy performance; in the last four months 20 stores in northern Italy installed DeLclima units (chillers, heat pumps and rooftop units).

Ikea, the Swedish chain with 276 stores all over the world, aside from offering convenient items, is committed to reducing their environmental impact, both in terms of its products and store management, with a sustainable energy policy. Again HVAC systems is an area of ​​great attention, not only to improve client comfort but also to minimize energy costs.

Ikea stores chose the advanced Delclima HVAC solutions and, by combining them with renewable energy sources, they have been able to ensure comfort and efficiency while minimizing CO2emissions.

Decathlon is also following a model of sustainable development starting from the selection of suppliers to the choice of installing efficient HVAC units in the newest stores. For these stores, Decathlon chose Delclima rooftop units with an advanced heat recovery system, which together with architectural and structural adaptations allowed for 40% energy savings.

This sample of projects gives an idea of ​​the growing attention paid by the big names in retail, and by the developers, architects, and designers specialized in this area, all of whom are committed to solutions that combine sustainability and efficiency.  These projects also demonstrates the popularity of DeLclima as the specialized manufacturer of technology for sustainable heating and cooling, putting them at the forefront in Europe and all over the world.

SOURCE: DeLclima S.p.A

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Metro Inc. to release its financial results for the 4Q 2015 on November 18, 2015

MONTREAL, 2015-10-29 — /EPR Retail News/ — Metro Inc.
will be releasing its financial results for the fourth quarter of 2015 on November 18, 2015. This release will be followed by a conference call at 11:00 a.m. EST.

Mr. Eric R. La Flèche, President & CEO and Mr. François Thibault, Senior Vice President & CFO will hold the conference call intended for investors and financial analysts to review the financial results. This conference call, expected to last approximately 60 minutes, will be followed by a question and answer period.

The analysts and institutional investors are invited to access the conference call, by dialing 647.427.7450 or 1.888.231.8191 or via the website by clicking here. The journalists as well as the public may access this conference via a listen mode only. A replay will be available approximately one hour after the call at 1.855.859.2056 (access code 66854986) or via the website by clicking here, until 23:59 EST on December 18, 2015.

Metro Inc.
With annual sales of over $11 billion and over 65,000 employees, METRO INC. is a leader in the food and pharmaceutical sectors in Quebec and Ontario, where it operates a network of more than 600 food stores under several banners including Metro, Metro Plus, Super C and Food Basics, as well as over 250 drugstores under the Brunet, The Pharmacy and Drug Basics banners.

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Source: Metro Inc.

Information:

Roberto Sbrugnera
Vice President, Treasury, Risk and Investor Relations
METRO INC.
514 643-1000

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Saudi Automotive Services Company (SASCO) announces the results of 34th Ordinary General Assembly Meeting

Retailing and Operation Division

Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, 2015-10-29 — /EPR Retail News/ — Saudi Automotive Services Company (SASCO) announces the results of the 34th Ordinary General Assembly Meeting (2nd Time), which held at 4:00 pm on Sunday, 25th of October, 2015 at SASCO Head office (Al-Ehsa Street Malaz – Riyadh) after completion of the quorum, where all meeting agenda were agreed as mentioned below: 

  • Elected of two additional members to engage the new two seats in the Board of Directors to complete the current session, which began on June 30, 2015 and ends on June 29, 2018, this after the Article (16) of the Article of Association was amended to become the number of the Board Members (9) members instead of (7) members (normal method of voting) as Follows:Mr. Suleiman Ali Alkhudair. 
    Mr. Fawaz Suliman Alrajhi. 

     

    It is worth mentioning that Mr. Suleiman Ali al-Khudair holds a bachelor’s degree in electronic science from the University of Arizona, USA, and has held several senior management positions in the private sector, and Mr. Fawaz Sulaiman Alrajhi holds a bachelor’s degree administrative and accounting information systems from King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals and a master’s degree in business administration from Stanford Business School (USA) and has worked in several leadership positions and participated in many of the boards of directors of companies in the private sector. 

     

  • Approved the amendment of Article II, paragraph (3/3) the rules of selection members of The Nominations & Compensations Committee, the duration of their membership, type of committee work and in particular formatting the Committee and the conditions of committee member, which states that “not be allowed members from the executive directors of the company or who are managing technical or administrative position in the company” to become after the adjustment “may be a member of the committee from executive directors in the company or who are managing technical or administrative position in the company” in order to activate the role of sub- committees of the Council and grant the possibility of participation for members from seniors executives in the company.

SOURCE: SASCO