Posted on October 6, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

England’s Women’s World Cup star Lucy Bronze becomes the new face of Sainsbury’s Active Kids campaign

LONDON, 2015-10-6 — /EPR Retail News/ — Lucy Bronze has been named the new face of Sainsbury’s Active Kids campaign, a star from the recent England’s Women’s World Cup squad. The Man City and England defender joins existing ambassadors Daniel Sturridge, Ellie Simmonds and Jonnie Peacock to help inspire children to be active and stay healthy.

Lucy follows the footsteps of David Beckham, Daniel Strurridge and Ellie Simmonds to front the campaign.
Sainsbury’s is one of the first UK corporate brands to sponsor an individual player from the 2015 Women’s World Cup squad.
Lucy kicked off her new role by surprising children at a Manchester primary school.

Lucy rose to national acclaim when she scored show-stopping goals, including her winning strike against Norway from outside of the penalty area for England in the recent FIFA Women’s World Cup in Canada.

Since her World Cup success she has continued to dominate the field for Man City and is now looking forward to drawing on the support from a growing fan base before competing in the Champion’s League for the first time next year.

Her new role for Sainsbury’s began a visit to Bowker Vale Primary School in Crumpsall, Manchester where she impressed the children with her ball skills and gave the young athletes some expert advice during a special coaching session. Bowker Vale Primary School was selected for the special appearance having collected the most Active Kids vouchers in the area over the last year.

Mark Given, from Sainsbury’s sponsorship, said: “Women’s football has been in the background for too long, and it was great to see the England team’s success at this year’s World Cup shine a light on some superb and inspirational players, such as Lucy. We look forward to Lucy joining our Active Kids ambassadors to encourage inclusive sport and healthy eating.”

Lucy Bronze, Sainsbury’s new Active Kids ambassador and player for Man City and England football clubs said: “There was great reaction to the Women’s World Cup and as well as being a fantastic experience, it has presented new opportunities for players like myself and it’s great to be working with Sainsbury’s as an Active Kids ambassador and following in the footsteps of other footballers like David Beckham and Daniel Sturridge. It was great to see children at Bowker Vale Primary School so excited to be playing football and the new Active Kids equipment was definitely a hit. I look forward to working with the other ambassadors to continue the success of Sainsbury’s Active Kids.”

Active Kids was launched in 2005 to inspire healthy and active lifestyles. Since the scheme began, Sainsbury’s has donated £160million worth of Active Kids equipment and experiences to schools and clubs across the UK.

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England’s Women’s World Cup star Lucy Bronze becomes the new face of Sainsbury’s Active Kids campaign

Posted on October 6, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

Lowe’s to donate $500,000 to American Red Cross Disaster Relief in response to the massive flooding in the Southeast

MOORESVILLE, N.C., 2015-10-6 — /EPR Retail News/ — In response to the massive flooding in the Southeast, Lowe’s announced today it will donate $500,000 to American Red Cross Disaster Relief. Lowe’s is working with its national nonprofit partners to provide both immediate and long-term support to local communities in the Southeast.

The donation to the Red Cross will help provide food, shelter and comfort to those impacted by this weekend’s historic rainfall. In addition, Lowe’s has activated its American Red Cross customer donation program in all 161 stores in the Carolinas to provide a convenient place for customers to make a donation. People can also make a contribution online via the Lowe’s American Red Cross Online Donation Site.

Lowe’s has shipped truckloads of emergency supplies to the affected area, and Lowe’s stores and national disaster relief partner, the First Response Team of America, have also been assisting with relief efforts.

“Our thoughts are with the thousands of residents, including Lowe’s employees, who’ve been affected by the widespread flooding,” said Joan Higginbotham, Lowe’s director of community relations. “Our Lowe’s Heroes are standing by to assist and will be lending a hand to help with recovery and rebuilding efforts.”

More than 40,000 people in South Carolina are without water after record flooding, and about 26,000 are without power. As many as 550 roads and highways remained closed.

Red Cross volunteers are working around the clock to help. By Monday afternoon, 35 Red Cross shelters were open and assisting residents in North Carolina and South Carolina. Nearly 400 Red Cross workers, 22 response vehicles and shelter supplies for 5,000 people have been mobilized to help in South Carolina.

As a member of the Red Cross’ Annual Disaster Giving Program, Lowe’s pledges donationson an ongoing basis in advance of disasters to help ensure the Red Cross can take immediate action. Individuals can team with Lowe’s and the American Red Cross to provide assistance by donating at Lowe’s American Red Cross Online Donation Site, by texting the word REDCROSS to 90999 or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Since partnering with the Red Cross in 1999, Lowe’s and its customers have contributed more than $25 million for disaster relief.

Donations to Red Cross Disaster Relief are used to help people affected by disasters big and small. Gifts enable the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from disasters.

ABOUT LOWE’S IN THE COMMUNITY
Lowe’s, a FORTUNE^® 50 home improvement company, has a 50-year legacy of supporting the communities it serves through programs that focus on K-12 public education and community improvement projects. Since 2007, Lowe’s and the Lowe’s Charitable and Educational Foundation together have contributed more than $225 million to these efforts, and for more than two decades Lowe’s Heroes employee volunteers have donated their time to make our communities better places to live. To learn more, visit Lowes.com/SocialResponsibility and LowesInTheCommunity.tumblr.com.

ABOUT AMERICAN RED CROSS:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

SOURCE Lowe’s Companies, Inc.

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Lowe’s to donate $500,000 to American Red Cross Disaster Relief in response to the massive flooding in the Southeast

Posted on October 6, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

CVS Health announces that it is opening Hearing and Optical Centers in select CVS/pharmacy stores

WOONSOCKET, R.I., 2015-10-6 — /EPR Retail News/ — CVS Health (NYSE: CVS) today announced that it is opening Hearing Centers in seven CVS/pharmacy stores in theDallas and Cleveland markets and will be providing optical services at CVS/pharmacy in five store locations around the Baltimore/Washington, D.C. market.

“Hearing and optical services are a great fit with the existing health offerings in our stores, including industry-leading pharmacy products and services, our MinuteClinic walk-in medical clinics and a comprehensive smoking cessation program,” said Andrew Sussman, M.D., president of CVS/minuteclinic and executive vice president & associate chief medical officer of CVS Health. “By expanding our retail health offerings into vision and hearing services, we are providing customers a convenient, single destination on their path to better health.”

“Over the past year, we have eliminated tobacco products from all of our stores, added healthy food options, and created a stronger connection between health and beauty,” said Judy Sansone, senior vice president of front store business and chief merchant of CVS Health. “Now, by taking these first steps into providing hearing and optical services, we continue to evolve our retail locations into a leading destination for convenient and accessible health services.”

The Hearing Centers at CVS/pharmacy, which will be open Tuesdays to Saturdays, are staffed by licensed audiologists and hearing instrument specialists who are able to assess hearing needs using computerized equipment in the centers’ soundproof booths. The centers will offer a variety of hearing aid products and custom ear plugs, as well as provide services such as free hearing screenings and free in-store hearing checks and cleanings. The Hearing Centers will also offer innovative noise simulation testing to demonstrate to patients the improvements that hearing aids can provide during different life experiences. Many insurance plans will be accepted for the hearing services available.

Experts say it takes an average of seven years for consumers to seek help from a professional for their hearing loss[1].The hearing services offered at CVS/pharmacy will help increase awareness and access for those with hearing needs and provide the opportunity to improve their quality of life by addressing their hearing needs sooner.

Optical service at CVS/pharmacy will be available seven days a week later this fall at select locations around the Baltimore/Washington, D.C. market. Services will include comprehensive eye exams by an optometrist three days a week for both walk-ins and appointments; prescriptions for glasses and contact lenses; access to more than 600 styles of frames and sunglasses from fashionable, popular brands for women, men and children; and free cleanings and adjustments. Many insurance plans will be accepted.

All eyeglasses will have a 90-day total-satisfaction guarantee, and can be returned for any reason during this period for a full refund. Glasses purchased for children up to age 14 will be covered by a one-year guarantee[2].

About CVS Health
CVS Health (NYSE: CVS) is a pharmacy innovation company helping people on their path to better health. Through its more than 7,800 retail drugstores, nearly 1,000 walk-in medical clinics, a leading pharmacy benefits manager with more than 70 million plan members, and expanding specialty pharmacy services, the Company enables people, businesses and communities to manage health in more affordable, effective ways. This unique integrated model increases access to quality care, delivers better health outcomes and lowers overall health care costs. Find more information about how CVS Health is shaping the future of health at www.cvshealth.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Stephanie Cunha
CVS/pharmacy
scunha@cvs.com
401-770-9354

[1] http://chchearing.org/facts-about-hearing-loss/;http://www.hearingloss.org/content/symptoms-hearing-loss

[2] Glasses that are damaged, broken or lost will be replaced at no charge, one time for one year from the original date of delivery.

SOURCE CVS Health

Posted on October 6, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

The Home Depot® announces the appointment of Linda R. Gooden to the company’s board of directors independent

ATLANTA, 2015-10-6 — /EPR Retail News/ — The Home Depot^®, the world’s largest home improvement retailer, today announced the appointment of Linda R. Gooden to the company’s board of directors. Gooden will serve on the company’s Audit andLeadership Development and Compensation Committees. Her appointment gives the company 12 directors, 11 of whom are independent.

Gooden, who retired in 2013 from Lockheed Martin Corporation as executive vice president, Information Systems & Global Solutions, has an extensive background in information technology, cybersecurity, operations and finance. As EVP, she expanded Lockheed’s IT capabilities beyond government customers to international and commercial markets. She also served as president of Lockheed’s Information Technology division from 1997 to 2006, which she grew into a multi-billion dollar business.

“I’m very pleased to welcome Linda to our board of directors,” said Craig Menear, chairman, CEO and president. “She brings a wealth of expertise in IT, strategic planning, risk management and general business.”

The Home Depot is the world’s largest home improvement specialty retailer, with 2,270 retail stores in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, 10 Canadian provinces and Mexico. In fiscal 2014, The Home Depot had sales of $83.2 billion and earnings of $6.3 billion. The Company employs more than 370,000 associates. The Home Depot’s stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: HD) and is included in the Dow Jones industrial average and Standard & Poor’s 500 index.

SOURCE The Home Depot

Financial Community: Diane Dayhoff, Vice President, Investor Relations, 770-384-2666, diane_dayhoff@homedepot.com;
News Media: Stephen Holmes, Director, Corporate Communications, 770-384-5075, stephen_holmes@homedepot.com

Posted on October 6, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

Asda, Iceland, Morrisons and Waitrose to support the construction of new world class dementia research centre at UCL in London

LEEDS, England, 2015-10-6 — /EPR Retail News/ — Asda, Iceland, Morrisons and Waitrose have joined together in a unique partnership to support an initiative that will make medical history.

All four retailers have pledged funds from the new levy on single-use carrier bags to support the construction of a new world class dementia research centre at UCL in London, with the aim of meeting the G8 Group challenge, following a lead from David Cameron, to find a cure for dementia by 2025.

This £350 million project currently has a shortfall in funding of £100 million, and the cash generated by carrier bag sales in food retailers across Britain has the potential to bridge much of that gap.

In addition to committing funds from their own stores, the Chief Executives of Asda, Iceland, Morrisons and Waitrose are today writing to the CEOs of all other UK food retailers, urging them to lend their support either this year or in any of the next five years.

SOURCE: ASDA

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Posted on October 6, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

The National Retail Federation issues statement on completion of Trans-Pacific Partnership negotiations

WASHINGTON, 2015-10-6 — /EPR Retail News/ — The National Retail Federation today issued the following statement from Senior Vice President for Government Relations David French on completion of Trans-Pacific Partnership negotiations:

“Trade agreements are vital for American retailers large and small. They help merchants provide high-quality, low-cost goods to U.S. consumers, and provide new overseas market opportunities for American companies and workers. It’s taken hard work on the part of U.S. negotiators to conclude this agreement, and we congratulate United States Trade Representative Michael Froman and his team for achieving an agreement.”

“International trade supports millions of jobs in the retail industry, and that number will only grow with passage of TPP. NRF looks forward to reviewing the final agreement with our members to identify the benefits for retailers and their customers.”

NRF’s recent Trade Matters to American Retailers and Families report found that international trade supports 6.9 million U.S. jobs in the retail and restaurant industries alone. Passage of the TPP and the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership – the other major trade agreement currently being negotiated – could help eliminate nearly $6 billion in tariffs that drive up prices of many imported consumer goods.

NRF is the world’s largest retail trade association, representing discount and department stores, home goods and specialty stores, Main Street merchants, grocers, wholesalers, chain restaurants and Internet retailers from the United States and more than 45 countries. Retail is the nation’s largest private sector employer, supporting one in four U.S. jobs – 42 million working Americans. Contributing $2.6 trillion to annual GDP, retail is a daily barometer for the nation’s economy. NRF’s This is Retail campaign highlights the industry’s opportunities for life-long careers, how retailers strengthen communities, and the critical role that retail plays in driving innovation. NRF.com

press@nrf.com
(855) NRF-Press

SOURCE: National Retail Federation

Posted on October 6, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

Chipotle Mexican Grill announces the return of its popular Halloween fundraiser, Boorito

Customers are invited to add something “unnecessary” to their costumes to score a $3 burrito and to help raise $1 million for the Chipotle Cultivate Foundation

DENVER, 2015-10-6 — /EPR Retail News/ — Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE: CMG) announced today the return of its longstanding and popular Halloween fundraiser, Boorito. On Saturday, October 31 between 5pm and closing, Chipotle will offer $3 burritos, bowls, salads, and tacos to customers dressed in a costume with an, “unnecessary” addition. Proceeds from the fundraiser, up to $1 million, will benefit theChipotle Cultivate Foundation.

Boorito has become one of the company’s most iconic promotions and this year, to showcase the simplicity of their ingredients, Chipotle is asking Boorito participants to add an unnecessary addition to their costumes in order to redeem the $3 Boorito offer. This twist on the costume guidelines supports the company’s larger vision of serving only the highest quality ingredients versus the complex array of unnecessary additives and preservatives that are typically found in fast food.

Unlike a typical fast food restaurant menu that includes hundreds, if not thousands of additives, including chemicals, processing aids, artificial colors and artificial flavors, Chipotle serves a simple menu of food made with only 68 ingredients that are raised or grown with respect for farmers, the environment, animals and consumers. These high quality ingredients are then prepared using classic cooking techniques.

“We’ve always focused on sourcing the highest quality ingredients, and we are challenging our customers to learn about the unnecessary ingredients used in typical fast food by adding something ‘unnecessary’ to their costume,” said Mark Crumpacker, chief creative and development officer. “In exchange for adding an unnecessary item to their costume, we’ll donate $1 from their purchase to the Chipotle Cultivate Foundation to help in its efforts to create a better food future.”

In support of this year’s Boorito fundraiser, Chipotle has produced a companion short film in conjunction with New York-based studio, Piro, entitled “Endless Line.” The humorous film features a customer entering a fictitious fast food restaurant where she discovers what Chipotle would be like if it served traditional fast food rather than cooking by hand. It follows her as she orders from an endless line of workers, each adding a different artificial additive to her meal. Rather than accept her artificially flavored, colored, and processed meal, she questions where the “real” ingredient are. The short video concludes with the line: “Unnecessary additives are creepy.”

Proceeds from Boorito, up to $1 million, will benefit the Chipotle Cultivate Foundation. To date, Chipotle customers have raised more than$4 million through the Boorito fundraising program to support the foundation’s work. The Chipotle Cultivate Foundation provides resources and promotes good stewardship for farmers; promotes better livestock husbandry; encourages regenerative agriculture practices; and fosters food literacy, cooking education, and nutritious eating.

For more information about this year’s Boorito fundraiser, please visit www.chipotle.com/boorito.

ABOUT CHIPOTLE
Steve Ells, founder, chairman and co-CEO, started Chipotle with the idea that food served fast did not have to be a typical fast-food experience. Today, Chipotle continues to offer a focused menu of burritos, tacos, burrito bowls (a burrito without the tortilla) and salads made from fresh, high-quality raw ingredients, prepared using classic cooking methods and served in a distinctive atmosphere. Through our vision of Food With Integrity, Chipotle is seeking better food from using ingredients that are not only fresh, but that — where possible — are sustainably grown and raised responsibly with respect for the animals, the land and the farmers who produce the food. In order to achieve this vision, we focus on building a special people culture that is centered on creating teams of top performers empowered to achieve high standards. This people culture not only leads to a better dining experience for our customers, it also allows us to develop future leaders from within. Chipotle opened with a single restaurant in 1993 and operates more than 1,850 restaurants, including 17 Chipotle restaurants outside the U.S. and 11 ShopHouse Southeast Asian Kitchen restaurants, and is an investor in an entity that owns and operates three Pizzeria Locale restaurants. For more information, visit Chipotle.com.

ABOUT THE CHIPOTLE CULTIVATE FOUNDATION
Chipotle Mexican Grill established the Chipotle Cultivate Foundation in 2011 to extend its commitment to creating a more sustainable future. The foundation is committed to providing resources and promoting good stewardship for farmers; promoting better livestock husbandry; encouraging regenerative agriculture practices; and fostering better food literacy, cooking education, and nutritious eating. Since its inception, the foundation has contributed more than $3 million to likeminded organizations committed to cultivating a better world through food. Visit CultivateFoundation.org for more information.

Source: Chipotle Mexican Grill

Chipotle Mexican Grill
Chris Arnold, 303-222-5912
carnold@chipotle.com

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Chipotle says unnecessary additives are creepy for this year’s Boorito fundraiser. (Photo: Business Wire)

Posted on October 6, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

The Retail Industry Leaders Association responds to the conclusion of Trans-Pacific Partnership negotiations

Arlington , VA, 2015-10-6 — /EPR Retail News/ — The Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) issued the following statement in response to news that the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) negotiations have concluded and an agreement has been reached among the 12 participating Asia-Pacific nations, including the United States.

“Retailers welcome today’s news and applaud U.S. Trade Representative Michael Froman and U.S negotiators for their commitment to bolstering U.S. competitiveness around the world,” said RILA President Sandy Kennedy. “The TPP agreement is historic and will save American families hundreds of millions of dollars by providing American businesses with improved access to critical markets throughout the Pacific Rim. We look forward to supporting the agreement and working to ensure the benefits of the TPP agreement are understood as the agreement is ratified through Congress.”

Ms. Kennedy also serves as a member of the White House Advisory Committee for Trade Policy and Negotiations. She was first appointed to the position in 2010.

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.

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

Posted on October 6, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

Haggen files motions with and is seeking the approval of the bankruptcy court to establish global bid procedures

Bellingham, Wash., 2015-10-6 — /EPR Retail News/ — Haggen today announced that it has filed motions with and is seeking the approval of the bankruptcy court to establish procedures for ongoing sales. The motions present global bidding procedures, stalking horse package bid procedures and a schedule of stores being sold.

Haggen is seeking a court hearing on October 19, 2015 to hear the Company’s proposed global bid procedures. Parties interested in participating in the sale of stores need to submit an indication of interest by no later than October 26. The procedures provide for a deadline for submission of bids to purchase some or all of the assets on 5:00 p.m. ET on November 2, with an auction scheduled on November 9. The hearing to consider the results of the auction will be held on November 24. In the event no auction is conducted for a stalking horse package or if one of the stalking horse bidders is the successful bidder for its package after the auction and the contracts identified in the original bid have not changed, a sale hearing for those stores will be held on November 13 instead. All dates are tentative and subject to bankruptcy court approval.

Haggen previously requested approval to begin going out of business sales in the identified non-core locations and will exit operations during the last weeks of November. The sale process has been designed to be fair and transparent in order to derive the highest bid for the stores and to maximize value for the estate and creditors in an orderly process. The procedures will allow the sale auction(s) to be conducted in a controlled, fair and open fashion that will encourage participation of financially capable buyers.

Haggen also filed motions to approve two separate asset purchase agreements for stalking horse bidder packages. Gelson’s Markets signed an asset purchase agreement for 8 stores in California and Smart & Final LLC signed an agreement for 28 stores in California and Nevada. Both agreements are subject to bankruptcy court approval.

Sagent Advisors, LLC has been retained to coordinate the sale process for Haggen. Parties interested in learning more about the process can contact Sagent at (212) 904-9400.

Stores included in the asset purchase agreement with:

Gelson’s Markets

STORE METRO AREA

California

Carlsbad – El Camino Real Carlsbad

Del Mar – Via De La Valle, Del Mar

Ladera Ranch – Crown Valley Parkway Ladera Ranch

Laguna Beach – South Pacific Coast Hwy., Laguna Beach

La Jolla – Turquoise St San Diego

Rancho Mirage – Bob Hope Drive Rancho Mirage

Santa Monica – Lincoln Blvd Santa Monica

Thousand Oaks – Avenida De Los Arboles, Thousand Oaks

Smart & Final LLC

California

Atascadero – El Camino Real Atascadero

Carlsbad – Carlsbad Village Dr Carlsbad

Carpinteria – Linden Avenue Carpinteria

Chino Hills – Chino Hills Pkwy Chino Hills

Chula Vista – East H St Chula Vista

Corona Del Mar – Coast Highway Corona Del Mar

Coronado – B Ave Coronado

El Cajon – Camino Canada El Cajon

El Cajon – Fletcher Pkwy El Cajon

La Mesa – Avocado Avenue La Mesa

Newbury Park –Newbury Road Newbury Park

Palmdale – W Avenue N Palmdale

Paso Robles –Creston Road Paso Robles

Redondo Beach – N. Pacific Coast Hwy. Redondo Beach

San Diego – Tierra Santa Bl. San Diego

San Diego – Westview Pkwy San Diego

San Luis Obispo – Johnson Ave San Luis Obispo

San Pedro – W 25th St San Pedro

San Ysidro – W San Ysidro Blvd San Ysidro

Santa Barbara – State St. Santa Barbara

Santee –- Magnolia Ave. Santee

Simi Valley – Los Angeles Avenue Simi Valley

Torrance – Hawthorne Blvd Torrance

Trabuco Canyon – Plano Trabuco Rd. Trabuco Canyon

Ventura – Telegraph Road Ventura

Westlake Village – Lindero Canyon Rd Westlake Village

Yorba Linda – Yorba Linda Blvd. Yorba Linda

Nevada

Las Vegas – Village Center Circle Las Vegas

Media Contact
Deborah Pleva
press@haggen.com

Posted on October 6, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

Publix Super Markets collects money for American Red Cross disaster relief to assist areas in Carolinas affected by severe weather

LAKELAND, Fla., 2015-10-6 — /EPR Retail News/ — Today Publix Super Markets established a program to offer its customers and associates a way to directly assist those areas in the Carolinas affected by recent severe weather. Customers may donate any amount by adding it to their grocery totals when checking out at Publix registers. Collected money will be channeled through the American Red Cross for disaster relief. The program will continue for a few weeks, based on customer response.

In related efforts, the Bahamas was recently affected by Hurricane Joaquin. The Bahamas Red Cross Society fully activated their Emergency Operations Centre and is coordinating closely with the Government’s National Emergency Operations Centre (NEMO). The American Red Cross is monitoring these efforts, and the Red Cross Pan-American Disaster Relief Unit continues to provide support to the Bahamas Red Cross.

“Our customers and associates have trusted Publix to react quickly and help those affected by tragic circumstances,” said Maria Brous, director of media and community relations. “The catastrophic flooding has impacted our immediate operating area, and we are looking to provide assistance to our neighbors and to the communities we serve. In addition, Hurricane Joaquin left behind devastation to the Bahamas, which also hits close to home as we have many associates and their families from the islands. We continue to monitor the situation in the Bahamas with the American Red Cross and wait to hear if an appeal for assistance is requested.”

Publix is also coordinating truck load donations of water and shelf-stable food with the South Carolina Emergency Management Division as well as other nonprofit organizations.

In a separate donation, Publix Super Markets Charities is donating $100,000 to American Red Cross for relief efforts in the impacted areas.

SOURCE: Publix Asset Management Company

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Posted on October 6, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

Wegmans to open its fourth store in Massachusetts on October 11

WESTWOOD, MA, 2015-10-6 — /EPR Retail News/ — Ever think food shopping could be fun? Inspire you to try something new? Then stand by: The fourth Wegmans store in Massachusetts, at 169 University Avenue (near I 95) in Westwood, is opening its doors to the public at 7 a.m. this Sunday, October 11. That’s when 550 friendly, helpful employees will show you how the store helps you make great meals every day that are easy, healthy and affordable.

A family-owned company since its start in 1916, Wegmans and its mission have consistently stayed the same: to offer choice, quality and value and to be the very best at serving the needs of its customers.

No matter what your style of cooking, Wegmans has everything you need under one roof: Restaurant-quality prepared foods; best-quality ingredients for cooking from scratch; ready-to-cook entrees; deli meats for tomorrow’s lunch; specialty and artisan cheeses for entertaining, or fresh New England seafood. With 70,000 products, Wegmans has about twice the selection of most other supermarkets.

There’s good news on Wegmans’ prices, too: Prices for products families buy every week are lower than at other supermarkets, with many products available in both regular and Family Pack size for the best value.

When you love working with food and people, Wegmans is the place to be according to Westwood Store Manager Dave Orlovsky, who has been with the company for more than 25 years.

“It’s always exciting to watch customers walk into the store for the first time and see all we have to offer,” says Orlovsky. “Our team has been working for months in anticipation of opening day, and we’re ready to deliver on our promise of incredible customer service.”

Shoppers will first see the vibrant colors of the produce department as they enter the 122,000-square-foot store. Just beyond are other fresh food areas with an open-air market feel, like bakery, meat, seafood, and cheese. See something in Prepared Foods that you can hardly wait to eat? Buy it and enjoy it right away at the Market Café, with indoor and outdoor seating for nearly 300 people.

Wegmans Wine and Beer shop has more than 700 varieties of domestic and imported beer with ‘Craft Your Own’ six-packs, wines starting at $6, and weekly wine tastings to help customers find perfect pairings for their meals.

The Westwood store also includes a pharmacy. J.D. Power and Associates 2015 Pharmacy Study recently ranked Wegmans pharmacy “Highest in Customer Satisfaction Among Supermarket Pharmacies” nationwide.

On opening day, just before customers are welcomed in, employees will gather near the front of the store to do the Wegmans cheer at 6:55 a.m., a long-standing tradition for the family-owned company. The store will be open seven days a week, and regular hours of operation will be 6 a.m. to midnight.

Customers can visit www.wegmans.com/westwood for more store details and to sign up for a Wegmans Shoppers Club card. They can also download the Wegmans app to search for recipes, products and create a shopping list that can be sorted by aisle locations.

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Wegmans Food Markets, Inc. is an 87-store supermarket chain with stores in New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Virginia, Maryland, and Massachusetts. The family-owned company, founded in 1916, is recognized as an industry leader and innovator. Wegmans has been named one of the ‘100 Best Companies to Work For’ by FORTUNE magazine for 18 consecutive years, ranking #7 in 2015. The company also ranked #1 for Corporate Reputation, among the 100 ‘most-visible companies’ nationwide in the 2014 Harris Poll Reputation Quotient ® study.

Contact Information: Jo Natale, Wegmans vice president of media relations, 585-429-3627

Posted on October 6, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

Rite Aid ready to help customers prepare for the hair-raising holiday

Saturday Holiday Gives Shoppers Opportunity to Dress-Up the Halloween Season with Last Minute Needs

CAMP HILL, Pa., 2015-10-6 — /EPR Retail News/ — With nearly 4,600 convenient locations, Rite Aid is this year’s one-stop shop Halloween headquarters. From enchanting to frightful costumes, décor, candy and more, Rite Aid is ready to help customers prepare for the hair-raising holiday.

“Halloween falls on a Saturday giving shoppers the opportunity to make sure they have all their last minute needs to celebrate the holiday this year,” said Tony Montini, Rite Aid executive vice president of merchandising and supply chain. “Whether our customers need candy for trick-or-treaters, an accessory to complete a costume or festive novelties to liven a party, Rite Aid’s convenient locations make it a true one-stop shop for any Halloween essentials.”

Wellness+ with Plenti members can enjoy additional savings throughout the season and have the opportunity to earn Plenti points on select Halloween and fall items. New and existing wellness+ members can now sign up for wellness+ with Plenti at any Rite Aid store nationwide or www.riteaid.com/plenti. Points earned on featured items can be used for at least two years for savings at Rite Aid and certain Plenti partners including Exxon, Macy’s and Mobil.

Candy
Rite Aid shelves are stocked with an extensive selection of Halloween trick-or-treat candy classics like chocolate pumpkins, Kit-Kat, Reese’s, Twix, Snickers and M&M’s, all available in large variety bags. For around the house, fill the candy dish with Brach’s Candy Corn, a holiday staple. And don’t forget to pick up one of Rite Aid’s colorful ghost, jack o’ lantern and haunted house inspired trick-or-treat bags or plastic pumpkin to help children collect candy!

Costumes
From children to adults, Rite Aid has costumes and accessories for everyone with character favorites such as Star Wars, Avengers, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and classics including lady bugs, bumble bees, zombie and witches. New this year, an expanded selection of masks from choices including werewolves, carnival-inspired, skeletons and gorillas. To help accessorize, capes, witch hats, wigs, face paint, makeup and fake teeth are available in a variety of colors and styles to compliment any Halloween costume.

Perfect Party Potion
Hosting a party? Scare the goblins out of your guests by creating a frightful ambiance throughout the house with eerie candelabras, strobe lights, gory door covers, cobweb and caution tape. And don’t forget the Halloween-inspired plates and cups! Rite Aid also has an animated reaper, ideal for spooking trick-or-treaters as they follow the skull pathway markers that light the way

Harvest
Fall into the season with Rite Aid’s revamped selection of classic harvest décor. Choose from a variety of fall-inspired artificial pumpkins, gourds, owls, floral arrangements and scarecrows for table tops or outdoor. Greet guests with warm welcome wall art or door wreaths designed in leaves, sunflowers, foliage and berries.

#RiteAidMombies
Follow Rite Aid on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for helpful Halloween tips, tricks, DIY crafts, recipes and costume ideas that will save the day and prevent busy moms from turning into “mombies” this season. Enter for a chance to win a mombies Halloween care package on Facebook throughout the month of October. Or take a personality quiz on www.riteaid.com/halloween to find out which kind of “mombie” you are!

Rite Aid Corporation (NYSE: RAD) 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:

Media: Kristin Kellum 717-975-5713

Posted on October 6, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

Taubman shopping centers to showcase special family-friendly experience in celebration for the upcoming release of ‘The Peanuts Movie’

Exclusive Halloween-themed TV lounge celebrates the upcoming release of ‘The Peanuts Movie’ debuting in theaters nationwide on November 6

BLOOMFIELD HILLS, Mich., 2015-10-6 — /EPR Retail News/ — In celebration of the upcoming release of ‘The Peanuts Movie,’ a special family-friendly experience and first-hand look at the 3D movie is being offered exclusively at six Taubman shopping centers throughout the month of October. The movie will be in theaters nationwide on November 6.

The Peanuts TV Lounges will showcase The Peanuts Movie trailer and a 3D dog house, decorated just in time for Halloween by the lovable beagle Snoopy. Guests will also have an opportunity to choose which Peanuts character is their favorite by visiting each center’s Facebook page for a chance to win tickets to the movie and a $100 American Express gift card.

“Many of us grew up alongside these loveable characters, so we’re excited to provide this sneak peak of the new movie for individuals and families,” said Glenda Cole, vice president, marketing and sponsorship for Taubman. “The lounge will definitely bring laughter and smiles as the adventures of the Peanuts gang are brought to life.”

The Peanuts exhibit, developed in partnership with 20th Century Fox, will be featured at the following Taubman Shopping Centers:

Beverly Center
Dolphin Mall
Fair Oaks Mall
Great Lakes Crossing Outlets
International Plaza
Twelve Oaks Mall

Visit the Facebook pages for the six participating Taubman shopping centers for more information and official contest rules.

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.

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 22 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
248-258-7681
agrundman@taubman.com

Posted on October 6, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

CBL & Associates Properties and DreamWorks Animation bring the Ultimate Santa Adventure at Oak Park Mall; set to open on November 7

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn., 2015-10-6 — /EPR Retail News/ — CBL & Associates Properties, Inc. (NYSE:CBL) today announced that it will host the Ultimate Santa Adventure at Oak Park Mall – A DreamWorks DreamPlace is a captivating and interactive Santa adventure for the entire family that is set to open to the public on Saturday, November 7. DreamWorks Animation, the global family entertainment brand known for award-winning storytelling and industry leading innovation, has chosen Oak Park Mall in Overland Park, KS, part of the greater Kansas City market, as one of the premier locations around the world during the 2015 holiday season to feature this experience.

“We’re thrilled to work with DreamWorks Animation to bring this incredibly unique experience to our guests at Oak Park Mall,” said Stephen Lebovitz, President and CEO, CBL & Associates Properties, Inc. “The Santa experience is a longstanding tradition for many families and DreamPlace is unlike any Santa experience we’ve hosted previously – a true must-visit destination for the holiday season!”

Ultimate Santa Adventure – A DreamWorks DreamPlace is a first of its kind holiday experience that starts with Shrek and ends with Santa, seamlessly blending storytelling with cutting-edge technology. Appointments can be made through the web, allowing families to enjoy Oak Park Mall before or after embarking on an unforgettable adventure.

“Following a fantastic national launch during the 2014 holiday season, DreamPlace is back to turn the traditional mall holiday visit into something truly special with an immersive, interactive approach that draws on our signature brand of technology, storytelling, and of course, humor,” said DreamWorks Animation’s Head of Retail Development Paul Kurzawa. “Shrek and his friends are here to bring the holidays to life with an unparalleled experience which fans will absolutely love.”

Ultimate Santa Adventure – A DreamWorks DreamPlace opens on Saturday, November 7, at 10 am with a holiday kick-off party that will include entertainment and activities for the kids and special holiday treats. Reservations are strongly encouraged and can be made by visiting TheNewOakParkMall.com.

About Oak Park Mall
Oak Park Mall is conveniently located in Overland Park, Kansas, just off of Highway 69 at West 95th Street. The shopping center is the exclusive home in the Kansas City metro area to Nordstrom, Disney Store, Oakley, LUSH, Microsoft, Teavana, and more than 185 specialty stores, boutiques and eateries. Oak Park Mall also is home to Kansas City’s only American Girl store. Oak Park Mall is owned and managed by CBL & Associates Properties, Inc. Additional information can be found at TheNewOakParkMall.com.

About CBL & Associates Properties, Inc.
CBL is one of the largest and most active owners and developers of malls and shopping centers in the United States. CBL owns, holds interests in or manages 147 properties, including 90 regional malls/open-air centers. The properties are located in 30 states and total 84.0 million square feet including 6.5 million square feet of non-owned shopping centers managed for third parties. Headquartered in Chattanooga, TN, CBL has regional offices in Boston (Waltham), MA, Dallas (Irving), TX, and St. Louis, MO. Additional information can be found at cblproperties.com.

SOURCE: CBL & Associates Properties, Inc.

Posted on October 6, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

Aftrap voor de kaartverkoop van het Allerhande Kerstfestival

Zaandam, Nederland, 2015-10-6 — /EPR Retail News/ — Kerstkransjes begin oktober? Het was even Kerst op Utrecht Centraal Station vandaag. Albert Heijn gaf de aftrap voor de kaartverkoop van het Allerhande Kerstfestival dat op 11, 12 en 13 december plaatsvindt in het Spoorwegmuseum in Utrecht. Om alvast in de kerststemming te komen werden er cadeaus uitgedeeld: reizigers werden spontaan verrast met gratis toegangskaarten voor het festival. De kaartverkoop is landelijk gestart via www.allerhandekerstfestival.nl.

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UTRECHT – Allerhande Kerstfestival start kaartverkoop.

Posted on October 6, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

Field & Stream to open its fifth store in Pennsylvania and 19th store nationwide on October 15 at Capital City Mall in Camp Hill, PA

Event Includes Special Appearances, Hunt, Cast & Pitch Youth Challenge

PITTSBURGH, 2015-10-6 — /EPR Retail News/ — Field & Stream, a specialty retail concept carrying the best brands to meet the evolving needs of hunters, anglers and outdoor enthusiasts, will be opening its fifth store in Pennsylvania and 19th store nationwide on Thursday, October 15th at Capital City Mall in Camp Hill, PA (3500 Capital City Mall Drive).

The four-day grand opening celebration will run through Sunday, October 18th. The store will open at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, 9:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday and 10:00 a.m. Sunday. An official ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place on Thursday at 9:45 a.m.

Several special guests will make in-store appearances during the Grand Opening, including Troy and Jacob Landry** as seen on the Swamp People® television series from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday.

“Field & Stream provides the products and experts needed to carry on the traditions shared by outdoor enthusiasts of all ages,” said Jack Barnes, General Merchandise Manager, Field & Stream. “Our Camp Hill location will carry a complete assortment of gear from the most-trusted brands in the business.”

Children ages 6 to 15 are invited to participate in the Field & Stream Hunt, Cast & Pitch Youth Challenge on Sunday, October 18th from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Participants will test their skills in archery, casting and tent building. For more information, visit fieldandstreamshop.com.

Customers can also get tips from professional anglers at the 4,000-gallon Field & Stream bass tank throughout the weekend.

Guests who are in line at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, 8:45 a.m. Friday and Saturday and 9:45 a.m. on Sunday will have a chance to open the Field & Stream Locked and Loaded Prize Safe.*

For details on additional appearances, door-busters, giveaways and grand opening festivities, visit fieldandstreamshop.com.

**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. See store for details.

*NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Purchase does not improve chance of winning. Limit one prize safe combination per person, per day. Must be 18+ for prize safe promotions. See store or fieldandstreamshop.com for details and odds of winning.

About Field & Stream Specialty Store
Named for the iconic brand that for more than 140 years has been synonymous with outdoor experiences, the Field & Stream store offers a vast assortment of outdoor equipment, accessories and services in hunting, fishing, archery, camping and more. The store carries a wide variety of top national outdoor brands, including Remington, Sitka, Sage, Shimano and Yeti and provides top of the line in-store services. The Field & Stream trademark is owned by American Sports Licensing Inc., and is not associated with Field & Stream Magazine. For more information, visit FieldandStreamShop.com.

Contact: Field & Stream – press@dcsg.com

Posted on October 6, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

DICK’S Sporting Goods to open its 24th store in Texas on Oct 16 at Sunrise Mall in Brownsville, TX

Special Appearance Saturday by Darren Woodson

PITTSBURGH, 2015-10-6 — /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 24th store in Texas and 636th store nationwide on Friday, October 16th at Sunrise Mall in Brownsville, TX (2370 North Expressway).

DICK’S three-day grand opening celebration will run through Sunday, October 18th. 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 7:45am on Friday will get a chance to open the DICK’S Sporting Goods Gift Locker.*

Former Dallas safety Darren Woodson** will make an in-store appearance from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 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.*

“We’re excited to be joining Brownsville with the opening of our newest location,” said Lauren Hobart, Executive Vice President & Chief Marketing Officer, DICK’S Sporting Goods. “We look forward to offering the finest quality products and highest level of customer service to the Brownsville community.”

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/Brownsville 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/Brownsville 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/Brownsville 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

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Posted on October 6, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

DICK’S Sporting Goods to open its 6th store in New Hampshire on Oct 16 at The Mall at Rockingham Park in Salem, NH

Special Appearance Saturday by Troy Brown

PITTSBURGH, 2015-10-6 — /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 sixth store in New Hampshire and 635th store nationwide on Friday, October 16th at The Mall at Rockingham Park in Salem, NH (77 Rockingham Boulevard).

DICK’S three-day grand opening celebration will run through Sunday, October 18th. The store will open at 8:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday and 9:00 a.m. Sunday.

Former wide receiver Troy Brown** will make an in-store appearance from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday.

“DICK’S Sporting Goods is excited to become a bigger member of the Salem 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 and inspiring them to achieve their personal best.”

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

**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/SalemNH for details.

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

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Posted on October 6, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

DICK’S Sporting Goods to open its 30th store in Virginia on Oct 16 at Battlefield Shopping Center in Leesburg, VA

Special Appearance Saturday by Darrell Green

PITTSBURGH, 2015-10-6 — /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 30th store in Virginia and 634th store nationwide on Friday, October 16th at Battlefield Shopping Center in Leesburg, VA (1079 Edwards Ferry Road).

DICK’S three-day grand opening celebration will run through Sunday, October 18th. The store will open at 8:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday and 9:00 a.m. Sunday.

Former Washington defensive back Darrell Green** will make an in-store appearance from 12:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday.

“We look forward to opening our new DICK’S Sporting Goods in Leesburg and becoming a bigger part of the community,” said Lauren Hobart, Executive Vice President & Chief Marketing Officer, DICK’S Sporting Goods. “We want to serve athletes of all ages in Leesburg by providing the equipment they need to help them excel.”

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

**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/Leesburg for details.

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

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