Posted on October 9, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz addressed more than 200 people representing veterans service organizations

SEATTLE, 2015-10-9 — /EPR Retail News/ — At any given time in the past decade, less than 1 percent of the American population has been on active military duty. As a result, many who served in the Armed Forces recently feel like the general public doesn’t understand their sacrifice.

“I don’t think we’ve ever lived through a situation where the American people have been so disconnected from the military, their families and the unbelievable sacrifice they have pursued on our behalf. The question for all of us now is how do we bridge the divide between the military and civilians? That is the challenge of the day,” said Howard Schultz, Starbucks chairman and ceo. He addressed more than 200 people representing veterans service organizations, all branches of the Armed Forces and leaders from other companies at Starbucks headquarters in Seattle today (October 8, 2015).

Starbucks brought participants together for a day-long conference called The Muster — an Old English military term for the process of accounting for members of a unit, generally after a battle — to create a collective blueprint to help with the transition from military service to civilian careers.

The effort is a continuation of Starbucks commitment, announced two years ago, to hire 10,000 veterans and military spouses by the end of 2018. While building a pipeline of talent focused on veterans and active duty spouses, the company realized it can do more to bridge the divide between military and civilian populations.

Overcoming ‘simple indifference’

Former Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said the “divide” is not an indication of animosity toward veterans and those who serve. In fact, the U.S. military ranked as the highest-rated institution in a 2015 Gallup survey, with 72 percent of Americans expressing “a great deal” or “quite a lot” of confidence in the institution. That compares with an 8 percent confidence rating for Congress.

“The problem for the military today is simple indifference,” said Gates, who served as U.S. Secretary of Defense from 2006 to 2011. Currently, he’s president of the Boy Scouts of America and a Starbucks board member.

Gates called on companies, veterans service organizations, nonprofits and the military to unite their efforts toward the goal of redefining the post 9/11 veteran experience.

“At the heart of the all-volunteer force is a contract between the United States of America and those who serve,” said Gates. “It’s a promise that when young Americans step forward on their own to serve, they do so with an expectation that their country will do right by them when their deployment is done. That includes easing the transition from battlefield to homefront, from homefront to workplace and if we get this right, to a number of executive suites as well.”

Veterans aren’t ‘looking for a soft landing’

Throughout the event in Seattle, guest speakers noted that military men and women and their spouses are not looking for sympathy or handouts.

“Veterans don’t stop serving when they take off their uniforms. They just serve in a different capacity,” said Army Lt. Gen. Stephen Lanza, commander of I Corps and Joint Base Lewis-McChord. “They’re not looking for a soft landing; they’re looking for your support for a smooth takeoff.”

Hiring veterans is not a charitable act, he added. It is a business imperative.

“Veterans have all the attributes you want in an employee. They are committed to something greater than themselves. They understand diversity. They are able to accomplish a mission under the hardest of conditions. They are leaders,” said Lt. Gen. Lanza.

On Veterans Day, Starbucks will provide an update on progress being made hiring veterans, active-duty reservists and military spouses.

A pledge from Starbucks to hire, honor and strengthen veteran communities has produced several initiatives, including over the past two years: patriotic green aprons to spark conversations between veterans or military spouses and customers; Starbucks Military Family Stores, run primarily by veterans and military spouses; Armed Forces Network expansions to a include Starbucks partners (employees) in dozen of cities around the U.S.; and Military Mondays, a program in a Starbucks store where William & Mary law students and professors offer their expertise to resolve veterans’ disability-compensation challenges. Read more here: Paying Tribute and Creating Opportunity.

For more information on this news release, contact the Starbucks Newsroom.

SOURCE: Starbucks Corporation

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Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz addressed more than 200 people representing veterans service organizations

Posted on October 9, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

Carrefour opens 4 new supermarkets in Taiwan

TAIWAN, 2015-10-9 — /EPR Retail News/ — Carrefour Taiwan is continuing to grow and is expanding its multi-format store offering. 4 new supermarkets have just opened in the country: 2 in the centre of the country and 2 in the south. Carrefour Taiwan now has 18 supermarkets.

Located in the towns of Tainan and Taichung, these stores have sales areas that range from 500 to 720 m². Parking facilities for cars and scooters in particular provide easy access. Customers can now shop in a Carrefour hypermarket or a in a Market supermarket if they want to shop more quickly.

presse_france@carrefour.com

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Posted on October 9, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

Carrefour and the Avril collaborate within the framework of the @SolutionsCOP21 Diet and Climate working group in preparation for COP21

Boulogne-Billancourt, FRANCE, 2015-10-9 — /EPR Retail News/ — Because what we eat influences our climate, Carrefour and the Avril group have been working together within the framework of the @SolutionsCOP21 Diet and Climate working group in preparation for COP21.

Our shared aim?
Showcase our concrete solutions upstream of the farming sector to ensure that average global temperatures do not rise by more than 2°C.

A study has been conducted by consultancy firm BIPE in order to take stock of the current situation and analyse the causal relationships between what we eat and the climate, based on a set of recent scientific documents. This study is being presented today by Carrefour and the Avril group at a conference, in the presence of the WWF, the UNEP (United Nations Environment Programme), the AFD (French agency for development) and the Bon pour le climat (“Good for climate”) association. This presentation will be followed by a debate.

Carrefour and Avril are putting forward recommendations for farming practices that are listed here.

presse_france@carrefour.com

Posted on October 9, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

Leeds City Council, John Lewis and Hammerson sign Employment and Skills Charter

LONDON, 2015-10-9 — /EPR Retail News/ — Leeds City Council, John Lewis and Hammerson have signed an Employment and Skills Charter, marking their commitment to support Leeds residents to access more than 1,000 new employment opportunities as part of the £165 million Victoria Gate development.

The Charter sets out how the organisations will work collaboratively to ensure Leeds and its surrounding residents, including young people, have access to skills training, retail and hospitality jobs as well as additional construction employment opportunities being created by the development in the city centre.

A key commitment within the Charter is to help ensure skills, training and access are a top priority. Hammerson, Leeds City Council and John Lewis are therefore working closely with local colleges and universities, training providers as well as specialist agencies, to help achieve this goal. Their overall aim is to support Leeds city’s aspiration of becoming a world class destination that attracts and delights customers, residents and visitors.

The Victoria Gate scheme, which is on schedule to open in late 2016, will be anchored by a regional flagship John Lewis shop and will additionally feature a two-street covered arcade with more than 30 aspirational retailers and restaurants.

Councillor Judith Blake, Leader of Leeds City Council, said: ‘It is one of our top priorities as a council to ensure that everyone in the city shares the opportunities provided by economic development as we forge forward for the future. We work closely with developers and companies setting up in the city to ensure that employment for local people is high on their agenda and I am delighted that John Lewis and Hammerson are taking their responsibilities seriously.’

Robin Dobson, Development Retail Director at Hammerson, added: ‘At Hammerson, we are committed to creating long lasting employment, and training opportunities in Leeds. Signing of the Charter marks an important step in the development of Victoria Gate, and highlights the opportunities that the development will create for the local community and further afield. We’re delighted to be working in partnership with both John Lewis and Leeds City Council on delivering what we believe will become the North’s premier retail and leisure destination as well as the wider regeneration of the city.’

Andy Street, Managing Director of John Lewis, said: ‘We are committed to the local communities in which we operate, and by signing this Charter, it affirms our focus to provide local jobs for local people. We want to ensure that job opportunities created by our Victoria Gate shop are accessible to all Leeds residents and we look forward to welcoming new Partners into our business.’

Notes to editors
Hammerson – Work started in April 2014 on the new £150 million Victoria Gate retail development, which is due to open in late 2016. The development will house one of the largest John Lewis stores outside of London. The detailed designs also include a casino, a multi-storey car park for up to 800 cars, Victoria Gate arcade with 30 stores, restaurants, cafes and leisure space. The first phase will also deliver up to 1,000 retail and hospitality jobs and up to 1,000 construction employment opportunities on site during the construction phases of the scheme. Project developer, Hammerson, is working with construction contractor Sir Robert McAlpine and key partner Leeds City Council to deliver the scheme.

John Lewis – John Lewis operates 45 John Lewis shops across the UK (32 department stores, 11 John Lewis at home and shops at St Pancras International and Heathrow Terminal 2) as well as johnlewis.com. It is part of the John Lewis Partnership, the UK’s largest example of worker co-ownership and all 30,000 John Lewis staff are Partners in the business. John Lewis, ‘Best Clothing Retailer 2015’ , ‘Best Electricals Retailer 2015’ and ‘Best Homewares Retailer 2015’¹, typically stocks more than 350,000 separate lines in its department stores across fashion, home and technology. Johnlewis.com stocks over 280,000 products, and is consistently ranked one of the top online shopping destinations in the UK. John Lewis Insurance offers a range of comprehensive insurance products – home, car, wedding and event, travel and pet insurance and life cover – delivering the values of expertise, trust and customer service expected from the John Lewis brand.

¹ Verdict Consumer Satisfaction Awards 2015

Enquiries

For further information about Hammerson, please contact:
Emma Streets, Turn Key
Telephone: 0113 380 4671
Email: emma@turn-key.com

For further information about John Lewis please contact:
Emma Cole, Senior Communications Officer (Corporate & Brand)
Telephone: 020 7798 3829
Email: emma.l.cole@johnlewis.co.uk

For further information about Leeds City Council please contact:
Donna Cox
Telephone: 0113 224 3335
Email: Donna.Cox@leeds.gov.uk

Posted on October 9, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

John Lewis to open new department store in Cheltenham in 2017

LONDON, 2015-10-9 — /EPR Retail News/ — John Lewis has today announced plans to open a new department store in Cheltenham in 2017.

With a combined investment of over £30m from John Lewis, BlackRock and Cheltenham Borough Council, the proposal will see the Beechwood shopping centre in Cheltenham transformed into a John Lewis department store.

Creating up to 250 jobs and offering more than 115,000 square feet of selling space across two floors, the shop will showcase fashion, home and consumer electronics concepts in a contemporary setting.

Tim Harrison, Director of Store Development at John Lewis, said: ‘Cheltenham has long been a sought-after location for us and we’re delighted to be able to expand our reach to customers across the region for the first time. This new shop will provide more convenient access to our inspiring products and great service, and we’re looking forward to becoming part of the local community.’

John Benham, Vice President of Real Estate at Blackrock, said: ‘This development improves Cheltenham as a shopping destination, increasing footfall within the town centre and encouraging other retailers to the area. At the same time, this ensures the long term viability of the site, creating long-term returns for our investors by improving the building and securing a high quality brand as a tenant.’

Notes to editors
John Lewis – John Lewis operates 45 John Lewis shops across the UK (32 department stores, 11 John Lewis at home and shops at St Pancras International and Heathrow Terminal 2) as well as johnlewis.com. It is part of the John Lewis Partnership, the UK’s largest example of worker co-ownership and all 30,000 John Lewis staff are Partners in the business. John Lewis, ‘Best Clothing Retailer 2015’ , ‘Best Electricals Retailer 2015’ and ‘Best Homewares Retailer 2015’¹, typically stocks more than 350,000 separate lines in its department stores across fashion, home and technology. Johnlewis.com stocks over 280,000 products, and is consistently ranked one of the top online shopping destinations in the UK. John Lewis Insurance offers a range of comprehensive insurance products – home, car, wedding and event, travel and pet insurance and life cover – delivering the values of expertise, trust and customer service expected from the John Lewis brand.

¹ Verdict Consumer Satisfaction Awards 2015

Enquiries
For further information about BlackRock, please contact:
Gillian Lock, FTI Consulting, PR agency for Blackrock
Telephone: 0203727 1321
Email: gillian.lock@fticonsulting.com

For further information about John Lewis please contact:
Vikki Speed, Senior Communications Officer (Corporate & Brand)
Telephone: 020 7931 4921
Email: vikki.speed@johnlewis.co.uk

Posted on October 9, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

Dior inaugurates new store dedicated exclusively to men’s products in the Paris Golden Triangle district

PARIS, FRANCE, 2015-10-9 — /EPR Retail News/ — Dior is focusing the spotlight on men with the inauguration of a new store dedicated exclusively to men’s products, with a prestigious location in the Paris Golden Triangle district. Opened on October 2, the store at 24 rue François 1^er features the full range of collections designed by Dior Homme Creative Director Kris Van Assche.

The new Dior Homme flagship welcomes customers to a streamlined, sunny space spread over two floors. Dior gray, black leather, wood and stainless steel are subtly mixed, echoing the elegant spirit of Kris Van Assche’s collections. Customers have an extensive choice of chic looks and less formal pieces from the ready-to-wear, accessories and shoes designed by the Dior Homme Creative Director.

To bring clients an exclusive experience, the store has an in-house Dior Tailleur atelier and offers a range of personalized services, including special orders and a demi-mesure (semi-bespoke) salon.

SOURCE: LVMH

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Dior inaugurates new store dedicated exclusively to men’s products in the Paris Golden Triangle district

Posted on October 9, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

Sainsbury supports Seafood Week 2015, 9th-16th October

LONDON, 2015-10-9 — /EPR Retail News/ — Friday 9th October marks the start of Seafood week, and runs until Friday 16th October. So, o-fish-ially it’s on for 8 days but it would be a shame to not squeeze in two fish Fridays.

Seafood Week 2015 is run by Seafish – the UK authority on seafood to support a profitable, sustainable and socially responsible fishing industry – it’s all about encouraging more people, to eat more fish, more often. There are lots of health benefits to eating fish, and as fish and seafood is so versatile to prepare and cook there are lots of tasty ways to serve it up. We’re showing our support and encouraging our customers and colleagues to be involved through recipes and inspiration online.

Seafish has chosen to promote a different fish each day and we’ll be focusing on this through our twitter and facebook using #SeafoodWeek. So if it’s Mackerel or, even Haddock that takes your fancy we’ll be on hand to give you recipes or info about the daily species.

As the largest retailer of Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certified sustainable fish in the UK for the fourth year running, and our commitment that all the fish we sell will be independently certified as sustainable by 2020 we think it’s important to encourage consumers to eat fish more regularly, and to think more broadly than the ‘Big 5’ which are the top 5 fish that make up for 80% of sales in the UK, these are – Cod, Haddock, Salmon, Tuna and Prawns. That’s why over the last few years we’ve run our Switch the Fish campaign to encourage our customers to try lesser known species like Lemon Sole and Hake.

Here are a few recipes to get you started:

Day one – Quick and easy fish curry

Day two – Mussels with parsley and wine

Day three – Pan-fried mackerel with kale, beetroot and blood orange salad

Look out for our updates throughout the week and for more information visit www.seafoodweek.co.uk

Ally Dingwall, Aquaculture & Fisheries Manager

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Sainsbury supports Seafood Week 2015, 9th-16th October

Posted on October 9, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

IKEA plans to open a store in Jacksonville, Florida in Fall 2017

CONSHOHOCKEN, PA, 2015-10-9 — /EPR Retail News/ — IKEA, the world’s leading home furnishings retailer, today announced it is submitting plans to the City of Jacksonville, Florida for a store that would increase the Swedish company’s presence in the southeastern U.S. with a fifth store in the state. (There are currently IKEA stores in the Central Florida cities of Orlando and Tampa as well as the South Florida cities of Sunrise and Sweetwater.) Pending approvals, construction of IKEA Jacksonville could begin Summer 2016, with an opening in Fall 2017.

Located approximately 10 miles southeast of downtown Jacksonville, the 294,000-square-foot proposed IKEA store and its 1,200 parking spaces would be built on 25 acres along the northwestern corner of Interstate 295 and Gate Parkway. Store plans reflect the same unique architectural design for which IKEA stores are known worldwide. IKEA also will evaluate potential on-site power generation to complement its current U.S. renewable energy presence at nearly 90% of its U.S. locations.

“We are excited at the possibility of growing our southeastern U.S. presence with this proposed Jacksonville store,” said IKEA U.S. president Lars Petersson. “This proposed location in an emerging retail corridor would provide our already 110,000 Jacksonville-area customers their own store and introduce the unique IKEA shopping experience to other consumers throughout North Florida, Southern Georgia and beyond.”

IKEA Jacksonville would feature nearly 10,000 exclusively designed items, 50 inspirational room-settings, three model home interiors, a supervised children’s play area, and a 350-seat restaurant serving Swedish specialties such as meatballs with lingonberries and salmon plates, as well as American dishes. Other family-friendly features include a ‘Children’s IKEA’ area in the Showroom, baby care rooms, play areas throughout the store, and preferred parking. In addition to the more than 500 jobs that are expected to be created during the construction phase, approximately 250 coworkers would join the IKEA family when the new store opens. IKEA Jacksonville also would provide significant annual sales and property tax revenue for local governments and schools.

Drawing from its Swedish heritage and respect of nature, IKEA strives to minimize its operations’ carbon emissions because reducing its environmental impact makes good business sense. IKEA evaluates locations regularly for conservation opportunities, integrates innovative materials into product design, works to maintain sustainable resources, and flat-packs goods for efficient distribution. U.S. sustainable efforts include: recycling waste material; incorporating key measures into buildings with energy-efficient HVAC and lighting systems, recycled construction materials, warehouse skylights, and water-conserving restrooms; and operationally, eliminating plastic bags from the check-out process, phasing-out the sale of incandescent light bulbs, facilitating recycling compact fluorescent bulbs, and sells only LED bulbs. IKEA U.S. has installed electric vehicle charging stations at 13 locations, and has solar arrays at 90% of its locations, and owns two wind farms in the U.S.

Since its 1943 founding in Sweden, IKEA has offered home furnishings of good design and function at low prices so the majority of people can afford them. There are currently more than 370 IKEA stores in 48 countries, including 41 in the U.S. IKEA has been included in rankings of “Best Companies to Work For” and, as further investment in its coworkers, has raised its own minimum wage twice in two years. IKEA incorporates sustainability into day-to-day business and supports initiatives that benefit children and the environment. For more information see IKEA-USA.com, @IKEAUSANews, @IKEAUSA or IKEAUSA on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram and Pinterest.

Contact: Joseph Roth, Expansion Public Affairs
(610) 834-0180, x 6500

Posted on October 9, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

H&M supports increased wages in Cambodia

STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN, 2015-10-9 — /EPR Retail News/ — We support higher wages for garments workers and are positive to the recent raise that will be implemented 1 January 2016. While we don’t believe that buyers, such as H&M, should determine wage levels for textile workers, we are positive to the peaceful consultations that have taken place over the past months between the parties on the labor market as well as to wages having been revised annually for the second year running. This is an important step forward towards fair living wages.

H&M has, on several occasions, pushed for higher wages in the garment industry in Cambodia. In 2014, we sent a joint letter with several other brands urging the Cambodian government to ensure fair collective bargaining processes. We also expressed our support for increased wages in the country, including our willingness to incorporate higher wage costs in our sourcing prices where needed. H&M’s CEO has also met with the Cambodian Prime Minister to discuss the importance of annual minimum wage revisions and fair industrial relations.

We are the first fashion company to have developed a pioneering global strategy for a fair living wage, our Fair Living Wage Roadmap. The strategy involves not only buyers such as us but also suppliers, factory employees and governments. It has been drawn up in consultation with Global trade union, suppliers and non-profit organizations. On industrial level we continue our important dialogue with governments as well as our collaboration with other stakeholders in the textile industry. H&M is also part of the ACT group whose purpose is to push the development forward when it comes to living wages in garment producing countries. The ACT brands are working together with IndustriALL global union on a shared vision and strategy to improve wages in the garment industry through industry level collective bargaining, supported by world class manufacturing standards and responsible buying practices.

On the enterprise level we are working according to the Fair Wage Method by promoting a well-functioning dialogue between the employer and employees at the supplier factories, giving them the tools to create well-functioning pay structures in the factories. Here, the initial goal is that all our strategic suppliers should have pay structures allowing fair living wages in place by 2018.

GLOBAL MEDIA ENQUIRIES
Only press enquiries
Phone: +46 8 796 53 00
Email: mediarelations@hm.com

All other enquiries
H&M switchboard +46 8 796 55 00
Email info@hm.com

Head of Communications
Kristina Stenvinkel
+46 8 796 39 08

Head of Media Relations
Camilla Emilsson Falk
+46 8 796 39 95

Posted on October 9, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

Kimco Realty Corp. announces its transaction activity for the third quarter of 2015 totaled more than $245 million

NEW HYDE PARK, N.Y., 2015-10-9 — /EPR Retail News/ — Kimco Realty Corp. (NYSE:KIM) today announced that the company’s transaction activity for the third quarter of 2015 totaled more than $245 million. Subsequent to the third quarter, Kimco acquired the remaining 85% ownership interest in a Houston power center for a gross price of $64 million, and also completed the sale of its ownership interests in 19 shopping centers in Canada to RioCan Real Estate Investment Trust (TSX:REI.UN) for CAD $477 million.

Third Quarter Activity:

Acquisitions:

As previously announced, Kimco acquired the remaining 80% ownership interest in Montgomery Plaza, a 465,000-square-foot power center located in the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington MSA, from RioCan for $58.3 million based upon a gross value of $72.9 million.
The company also opportunistically acquired a parcel adjacent to its flagship Suburban Square (Ardmore, Pa.) shopping center for $1.9 million.

Subsequently in October, Kimco exited another institutional joint venture by acquiring a partner’s 85% ownership interest in Conroe Marketplace (Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land MSA), a 289,000-square-foot power center, for $54.4 million based on a gross value of $64.0 million. The 98-percent-leased shopping center is anchored by strong national tenants such as TJMaxx, Ross Dress for Less, Bed Bath and Beyond, Ashley Furniture HomeStore, PetSmart, Old Navy and Ulta.

In addition, the company purchased a 36-acre tract of land in Houston for $13.2 million. This parcel lies directly across from Kimco’s Grand Parkway Marketplace ground-up development project and will be part of a phase II extension of this project.

Dispositions:

Sold interests in 14 U.S. properties, totaling 1.6 million square feet, for a gross sales price of $141.6 million. In addition, the company sold 14 wholly owned net-leased restaurant properties for $17.3 million. The company’s share from these sales was $97.4 million.
Disposed of its 50% interest in Centre Jacques Cartier located in Montreal, Canada for a gross sales price of CAD $17.6 million. The company’s share from this sale was CAD $8.8 million.

Subsequently, on October 6, 2015, Kimco completed the sale of its ownership interests in 19 Canadian properties to RioCan at a pro-rata purchase price of CAD $477 million, including the assumption of CAD $127 million of existing mortgage debt. The company will receive approximately $220 million in proceeds, net of its pro-rata share of debt and the impact of currency and taxes, which will be used to further strengthen Kimco’s balance sheet and fund redevelopment activities.

The sale of these 19 Canadian properties to RioCan is part of a larger announced transaction in which RioCan and Kimco have agreed to unwind their Canadian joint venture. This includes RioCan acquiring Kimco’s ownership interests in 22 properties from the RioCan-Kimco joint venture for CAD $715 million in a two-step process. The initial step was the sale of Kimco’s interest in these 19 properties; the second step will be the sale of the remaining three properties, totaling CAD $238 million including the assumption of CAD $104 million of existing mortgage debt, expected to close in the first quarter of 2016.

ABOUT KIMCO

Kimco Realty Corp. (NYSE:KIM) is a real estate investment trust (REIT) headquartered in New Hyde Park, N.Y., that is North America’s largest publicly traded owner and operator of open-air shopping centers. As of June 30, 2015, the company owned interests in 727 shopping centers comprising 107 million square feet of leasable space across 39 states, Puerto Rico, Canada and Chile. Publicly traded on the NYSE since 1991, and included in the S&P 500 Index, the company has specialized in shopping center acquisitions, development and management for more than 50 years. For further information, please visitwww.kimcorealty.com, the company’s blog at blog.kimcorealty.com, or follow Kimco on Twitter at www.twitter.com/kimcorealty.

SAFE HARBOR STATEMENT

The statements in this release state the company’s and management’s intentions, beliefs, expectations or projections of the future and are forward-looking statements. It is important to note that the company’s actual results could differ materially from those projected in such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations include, but are not limited to, (i) general adverse economic and local real estate conditions, (ii) the inability of major tenants to continue paying their rent obligations due to bankruptcy, insolvency or a general downturn in their business, (iii) financing risks, such as the inability to obtain equity, debt or other sources of financing or refinancing on favorable terms to the company, (iv) the company’s ability to raise capital by selling its assets, (v) changes in governmental laws and regulations, (vi) the level and volatility of interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates and management’s ability to estimate the impact thereof, (vii) risks related to the company’s international operations, (viii) the availability of suitable acquisition, disposition, development and redevelopment opportunities, and risks related to acquisitions not performing in accordance with the company’s expectations, (ix) valuation and risks related to the company’s joint venture and preferred equity investments, (x) valuation of marketable securities and other investments, (xi) increases in operating costs, (xii) changes in the dividend policy for the company’s common stock, (xiii) the reduction in the company’s income in the event of multiple lease terminations by tenants or a failure by multiple tenants to occupy their premises in a shopping center, (xiv) impairment charges and (xv) unanticipated changes in the company’s intention or ability to prepay certain debt prior to maturity and/or hold certain securities until maturity. Additional information concerning factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those forward-looking statements is contained from time to time in the company’s SEC filings. Copies of each filing may be obtained from the company or the SEC.

The company refers you to the documents filed by the company from time to time with the SEC, specifically the section titled “Risk Factors” in the company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014, as it may be updated or supplemented in the company’s Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and the company’s other filings filed with the SEC, which discuss these and other factors that could adversely affect the company’s results.

Kimco Realty Corp.
David F. Bujnicki, 1-866-831-4297
Vice President, Investor Relations and Corporate Communications
dbujnicki@kimcorealty.com

Source: Kimco Realty Corporation

Posted on October 9, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

NACS: Convenience stores poised to capitalize on the growing trend of consumers seeking healthy products according to new Hudson Institute report

ALEXANDRIA, VA, 2015-10-9 — /EPR Retail News/ — Convenience stores are poised to capitalize on the growing trend of consumers seeking healthy, more convenient products, according to a new Hudson Institute report.

“Consumers’ desire for convenience is a growing trend and a notable convenience store opportunity,” according to “Health & Wellness Trends and Strategies for the Convenience Store Sector” a report commissioned by the National Association of Convenience Stores (NACS).

To grow sales, the 152,794 convenience store operators in the United States should look beyond simply meeting the needs of their traditional customers and embrace the growing customer segment that is demanding more and more better-for-you items that can be conveniently purchased, according to the report, authored by Hank Cardello, senior Fellow and director of the Hudson Institute’s Obesity Solutions Initiative, and Steve French, managing partner and co-owner of the Natural Marketing Institute (NMI).

Overall sales at convenience stores, including motor fuels, were $698 billion in 2014, roughly equal to sales at restaurants ($709 billion), and more than those at supermarkets ($638 billion).

Convenience store shoppers are consuming more healthy food items, such as vegetables, fruits and healthy snacks compared to a year ago, and 75% of convenience store customers say they are eating healthier than they used to, according to the Hudson Institute report.

In addition, the number of convenience store shoppers interested in healthy foods that can be eaten “on-the-go” has increased from 59% to 66% in the past seven years, and healthier snacking has become the norm.

Convenience retailers should place a focus on two primary consumer segments to grow sales: continuing to serve their traditional core consumer segment of “Eat, Drink & Be Merrys” and the growing segment characterized as “Fence Sitters,” who represent 38% of convenience store shoppers and typically spend more, yet are often unsure where they can find convenient, better-for-you options. Overall, 34% of Fence Sitters say that there is “no convenient locations nearby” to purchase healthy foods and 41% say “it is not convenient or easy to find” better-for-you products.

In particular, easy-to-access prepared foods present an opportunity for convenience stores with foodservice operations to capitalize on this customer’s desire to eat healthier more often. Foodservice sales are 19% of the industry’s $213.5 billion in in-store sales.

“Convenience stores have an opportunity to bridge this gap and own convenient foodservice—especially breakfast—when nutrition is considered most important and Fence Sitters are currently eating healthier options during this meal occasion in particular,” according to the report.

There also is considerable opportunity to grow sales through education—both by communicating the availability of better-for-you products and by highlighting how better-for-you “tastes great and is quick to prepare or can be eaten on the go.”

“By focusing on products and messaging that meet the need for healthier products—on-the-go, breakfast and kid-targeted convenience—convenience stores can drive significant, new growth in this emerging category,” the report concluded.

The insights in the report were based on the proprietary Health & Wellness Trends Database managed by the NMI, which has analyzed and compiled more than 80,000 consumer surveys since 2001.

The 10-page report is available for download.

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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.

Posted on October 9, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

Publix VP of Fresh Product Business Development David Bridges announced his decision to retire

LAKELAND, Fla., 2015-10-9 — /EPR Retail News/ — Last month, David Bridges, Vice President of Fresh Product Business Development, announced his decision to retire Jan. 1, 2016, after 49 years of service to the company.

Bridges’s career began in 1966 at store #0011, Lakeland, Florida, as a front service clerk. By 1981, he was promoted to store manager and in 1987 he became a district manager. In 1994 he was promoted to Lakeland Division regional director and to Vice President of Retail Business Development in 2000. In 2001 Bridges was named Vice President of Fresh Product Business Development where he has served for the last 14 years.

Publix President Todd Jones said, “David has been a dedicated Publix associate and an integral part of the growth of our fresh and meals departments. He has a passion for providing premier service to his customers and for the training, development and advancement of his team. We will miss David and wish him well as he begins the next chapter of his life.”

Upon Bridges’s retirement, Atlanta Division Regional Director Chris Litz will be promoted to Vice President of Fresh Product Business Development.

Litz began his Publix career in 1987 at store #0123, in Sarasota, Florida as a stock clerk. He worked various positions before becoming a store manager in 1995 and Lakeland Division district manager in 2000. He was promoted to director of warehousing in 2007 and his current position in 2010.

“Chris’s experience in retail and support makes him an ideal candidate for this leadership position,” said CEO Ed Crenshaw. “His knowledge of both facets of our operations will continue to move our fresh retail business units forward.”

Chris and his wife, Debbie, will soon be relocating from Atlanta to Lakeland. Chris enjoys diving, boating and running.

At the same time, this position will realign to report to Senior Vice President Dave Bornmann. Bornmann currently has responsibility over grocery and customer service business development. The realignment will allow insight across center and perimeter store, as well as frontend operating area impacting the customer shopping experience.

Media Relations Contacts

SOURCE: Publix Asset Management Company

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Posted on October 9, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

Meijer expects 20% increase in shoppers taking advantage of early Halloween savings and hunting

Meijer sees increased interest as weekend Halloween won’t happen again until 2020

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., 2015-10-9 — /EPR Retail News/ — Midwestern retailer Meijer is seeing as much as a 20 percent increase in shoppers taking advantage of Halloween savings and hunting earlier for decorations, candy and costumes this year, according to Peter Whitsett, executive vice president of merchandising and marketing.

“The next time Halloween will be celebrated on the weekend won’t be until 2020, so we’re seeing enthusiastic shoppers making it more of seasonal experience by planning their trick-or-treating, haunted house visits and unforgettable parties throughout October,” Whitsett said. “We know that more parents are decorating their homes and even dressing up with their kids, so we look forward to providing everything families need for their weekend festivities.”

Meijer aggressively expanded its selection in kids licensed costumes, adult costume accessories and animated home decorations this year to help shoppers maximize their Halloween experience. Whitsett said that nearly half will decorate their home, more than two-thirds of all celebrants will wear a costume and more than 157 million people are planning to celebrate and throw or attend parties.

The average person will spend $75 this Halloween on indoor and outdoor décor, costumes and candy, and nearly 70 million people plan on passing out candy. Total spending on Halloween will reach $6.9 billion, according to the National Retail Federation.

Top costume trends for this season include:

Adults: Customizable costumes with hoodies, masks, hats, wigs and other accessories.
Boys: Star Wars, Teenage Ninja Mutant Turtles and superhero muscle costumes from the Avengers continue to be most popular. About 70 percent of all boys’ costumes purchased are licensed products.
Girls: Monster High continues to be popular, but My Little Pony, as well as Anna and Elsa from Frozen are still top costume choices.
Toddlers: Parents are most enthusiastic about dressing their toddlers up in Paw Patrol, Sesame Street andMinions character costumes.
Pets: With more and more consumers treating their pets as members of the family, Meijer expects to sell more than 80,000 pet outfits and accessories this year by featuring an expanded selection of Star Wars licensed costumes and a wider assortment of dog apparel.
Quick-and easy-costumes: Step-in or “bagged” costumes will provide customers with “no muss-no fuss” solutions this Halloween. Novelty costumes like Sharks, Bacon, Penguins, and Bananas are ever-popular for adults.
Do-It-Yourself costumes: DIY has grown in popularity beyond the Meijer craft aisles. More and more adults are piecing together costumes for kids and family, which is why Meijer continues to offer a wide assortment of wigs and individual costume accessories. Meijer sells more black nail polish and novelty make-up during Halloween than any other time throughout the year.

Additionally, Meijer is hosting a Halloween Pets Costume Sweepstakes on its Facebook page. Beginning Oct. 18,upload a photo of your pet in a Halloween costume for a chance to win one of three sweepstakes packages that feature a year’s worth of pet treats, Avanti greeting cards and free photo prints from Meijer Photo.

For additional Halloween trends at Meijer, please see the Halloween Fact Sheet on the Meijer Newsroom.

About Meijer:
Meijer is a Grand Rapids, Mich.-based retailer that operates 222 supercenters and grocery stores throughout Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky and Wisconsin. As a pioneer of the “one-stop shopping” concept, Meijer stores have evolved through the years to include expanded fresh produce and meat departments, as well as pharmacies, comprehensive apparel departments, garden centers and electronic offerings. For additional information on Meijer, please visit www.meijer.com. Follow Meijer on Twitter @twitter.com/meijer and @twitter.com/meijerPR or become a fan at www.facebook.com/meijer.

Contact: Joe Hirschmugl, 616-791-3943, joseph.hirschmugl@meijer.com

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Meijer expects 20% increase in shoppers taking advantage of early Halloween savings and hunting

Posted on October 9, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

Nachhaltigere Weihnachtssterne erstmalig im Sortiment von REWE, PENNY und toom

Bessere Bedingungen beim Anbau von Weihnachtssternen: Kontrollierter Einsatz von Pflanzenschutzmitteln, verbesserte Sozialstandards und Reduktion des Torfeinsatzes

Köln, Germany, 2015-10-9 — /EPR Retail News/ — Mit der Umstellung auf eine nachhaltigere Produktion von Weihnachtssternen widmet sich die REWE Group einer der beliebtesten Zimmerpflanzen in Deutschland. Rund 40 Millionen Weihnachtssterne (Poinsettien) gehen jährlich in Deutschland über die Ladentische, ungeachtet der teils prekären Produktionsbedingungen. Als eines der ersten Handelsunternehmen in Deutschland nimmt die REWE Group ab kommenden Montag (12.10.) erstmals Weihnachtssterne ins Sortiment auf, die sowohl sozial- als auch umweltverträglicher produziert wurden.

Die PRO PLANET-Weihnachtssterne bei REWE und der Baumarktkette toom tragen das Fairtrade-Siegel. Dieses Siegel schränkt den Gebrauch von Pflanzenschutzmitteln ein und verpflichtet die Produzenten, den Arbeitern mindestens den gesetzlichen Mindestlohn sowie zusätzliche Prämien zu bezahlen und geregelte Arbeitszeiten einzuhalten. Zusätzlich müssen sich alle Jungpflanzenbetriebe der PRO PLANET-Weihnachtssterne von dem niederländischen Umweltprogramm „Milieu Programma Sierteelt“ (MPS) zertifizieren lassen. Dadurch wird der umweltgerechte Einsatz von Wasser, Energie, Dünge- und Pflanzenschutzmitteln sichergestellt. Ab 2016 wird zudem der Einsatz von besonders bienengefährdenden Wirkstoffen verboten. Als Grundlage hierfür dient die Studie „Bye Bye Biene“ von Greenpeace. Darüber hinaus wird für den Anbau der Weihnachtssterne zum Schutz der Moore ein Substrat verwendet, das 30 Prozent weniger Torf enthält. Durch die Herstellung von Torf werden Moore häufig nachhaltig geschädigt und mit ihnen wichtige Lebensräume für Tiere und Pflanzen.

Bei den PRO PLANET-Weihnachtssternen von PENNY geht die REWE Group neue Wege: In einem Pilotprojekt zur Weihnachtssternproduktion wird ein torffreies Substrat eingesetzt, das unter anderem aus Kiefernrinde besteht. Eine Zertifizierung der Erzeuger nach GRASP (GLOBALG.A.P. Risk Assessment on Social Practice) wird zur Einhaltung von Sozialstandards eingesetzt. Außerdem wird in diesem Pilotprojekt der Einsatz von biologischen Mitteln als Alternative zu Chlormequat – das als Wachstumsregulator beim Anbau zum Einsatz kommt – untersucht.

Weitere Informationen zu PRO PLANET unter www.proplanet-label.com.

Die genossenschaftliche REWE Group ist 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.

Zu den Vertriebslinien zählen Super- und Verbrauchermärkte der Marken REWE, REWE CENTER, REWE CITY und BILLA, der Discounter PENNY sowie die Baumärkte von toom Baumarkt und B1 Discount Baumarkt. Hinzu kommen die Bio-Supermärkte (TEMMA), innovative Convenience-Märkte (REWE To Go), das Gastrokonzept „Oh Angie!“ und
E-Commerce-Aktivitäten REWE Lieferservice sowie Zooroyal und Weinfreunde. Zur Touristik gehören unter dem Dach der DER Touristik die Veranstalter ITS, Jahn Reisen und Travelix sowie Dertour, Meier’s Weltreisen und ADAC Reisen sowie die Geschäftsreisesparte FCm Travel Solutions und über 2.100 Reisebüros (u.a. DER Reisebüro, DERPART), die Hotelketten lti hotels, Club Calimera und PrimaSol Hotels und der Direktveranstalter clevertours.com.

Ansprechpartner:
REWE Group-Unternehmenskommunikation
Tel.: +49 221 149 1050
Mail: presse@rewe-group.com

Posted on October 9, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

7‑Eleven revamps its Franchise recruitment website

DALLAS, 2015-10-9 — /EPR Retail News/ — 7‑Eleven has given its Franchise recruitment website a facelift to better reflect the ease of applying for one its store franchises.

In fact, the company branded its franchise process as “Franchisease” (http://franchise.7‑Eleven.com/franchise/home).

“We are emphasizing that it is easy for qualified candidates to apply for, own and grow their number of franchise stores in areas where we do business,” said Greg Franks, 7‑Eleven vice president of franchise systems. “The website’s look is more modern and simplified. It’s easier to navigate and has cleaner lines imagery and text.”

But the re-branding team did more than just update the look, the department did months of research on what makes a site appealing, and analyzed where webpage visitors landed and lingered, as well as what competitors were doing online.

“More importantly, we wanted to be mobile device-friendly,” said Franks. “We serve people who are on the go, connected 24/7 and want content delivered to their fingertips, and this includes being mobile-device friendly.”

Imagery is dominant on the pages. There is more interaction and even some animation. Social media is imbedded. There are more original content, blogs and franchisee profiles explaining the benefits of a 7‑Eleven franchise and showcasing the company’s technology and operations support.

The site is divided into three easily digested segments: the basic contract, the applicant’s experience and financial information.

Something that no other franchise company offers is “Franchising 101,” a description of what franchising is all about. It’s more of an education rather than a sales tool and includes a glossary of terms to help the novice understand, for example, what a “franchise disclosure document” is.

Franks said shortly after the new website was launched in late summer, the team saw the number of applications rise.

“We believe our new approach is paying off,” added Franks. “Visitors are staying longer on the pages and the bounce rate (exiting the site) has gone down.”

7‑Eleven, Inc. continues to grow and expects to have a net of approximately 200 stores added to its U.S. store count this year.

About 7‑Eleven, Inc.
7‑Eleven, Inc. is the premier name and largest chain in the convenience retailing industry. Based in Dallas, Texas, 7‑Eleven operates, franchises or licenses some 10,600 7‑Eleven® stores in North America. Globally, there are more than 57,200 7‑Eleven stores in 16 countries. 7‑Eleven has been honored by a number of companies and organizations recently. Accolades include: #1 on Entrepreneur magazine’s 2014 Top Global Franchise list; #2 on Franchise Times Top 200 Franchise Companies for 2013; #10 spot on Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500 list for 2015, and #3 in Forbes magazine’s Top 20 Franchises to Start. 7‑Eleven is No. 3 on Fast Company magazine’s 2013 list of the “World’s Top 10 Most Innovative Companies in Retail.” 7‑Eleven places among Top Veteran-Friendly Companies for 2014 by U.S. Veterans Magazine and is among GI Jobs magazine’s Top 100 Military Friendly Employers for 2014. Hispanic Magazine named 7‑Eleven among its Hispanic Corporate Top 100 Companies that provide the most opportunities to Hispanics. 7‑Eleven is franchising its stores in the U.S. and expanding through organic growth, acquisitions and its Business Conversion Program. Find out more online at www.7‑Eleven.com.

Contact:

Margaret Chabris
972-828-7285
Margaret.chabris@7-11.com

Posted on October 9, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

PENNY unterstützt Tafeln in Hannover und Bremen mit Pfandbon-Spenden

Ab sofort beteiligen sich 45 Märkte – Sammelboxen an den Rücknahmeautomaten

Köln, Germany, 2015-10-9 — /EPR Retail News/ — PENNY intensiviert seine Zusammenarbeit mit den Tafeln in Hannover und Bremen. Bisher unterstützen die Märkte die beiden Tafeln regelmäßig mit Lebensmitteln, die nicht mehr verkauft, aber dennoch bedenkenlos verzehrt werden können. Ab heute (09.10.) können sich auch PENNY-Kunden für die Tafeln engagieren, indem sie ihren Pfandbon spenden. Entsprechende Pfandbon-Sammelboxen wurden an den Rücknahmeautomaten von 45 PENNY-Märkten in Bremen (15) und Hannover (30) angebracht.

„Mit den Pfandboxen bieten wir unseren Kunden die Möglichkeit, bequem beim Einkauf zu spenden. Das Geld kommt unmittelbar und in vollem Umfang der Bremer und Hannöverschen Tafel zugute. Damit können dann soziale Einrichtungen unterstützt oder die Ausgabestellen mit Lebensmitteln beliefert werden“, erklärt Michael Herz, PENNY-Regionsleiter Lehrte, anlässlich des heutigen offiziellen Starts der Kooperation. Volle Einkaufsmeilen und pralle Einkaufstüten dürften nicht darüber hinwegtäuschen, dass immer mehr Menschen auf Unterstützung angewiesen sind. „Das können die Tafeln allein ohne Partner nicht dauerhaft leisten“, mahnt Herz. In Hannover ist die Citipost Kooperationspartner, um die Pfandbonboxen zu leeren. „Wir arbeiten seit Jahren eng und vertrauensvoll mit der Citipost zusammen. Nun haben wir unsere Kooperation auf ein soziales Engagement ausgedehnt“, so Herz.

PENNY erzielte 2014 allein in Deutschland mit 2.200 Filialen und 26.000 Mitarbeitern einen Umsatz von rund sieben Milliarden Euro. Im Ausland erwirtschaftete PENNY mit 1.370 Filialen und 18.200 Mitarbeitern einen Umsatz von über vier Milliarden Euro.

nsprechpartner:
Andreas Krämer
Pressesprecher PENNY
Tel: +49 221 149 1050
Mail: presse@rewe-group.com

SOURCE: REWE Group

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PENNY unterstützt Tafeln in Hannover und Bremen mit Pfandbon-Spenden

Posted on October 9, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

ICSC Foundation presents the Canadian Community Support Award to Bentall Kennedy for their charitable campaign at the North Hill Centre in Calgary

CSC Foundation honors outstanding social campaign at local Calgary centre

TORONTO, 2015-10-9 — /EPR Retail News/ — The International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) Foundation is proud to present the prestigious Canadian Community Support Award to Bentall Kennedy for their outstanding charitable campaign at the North Hill Centre, located in Calgary, Alberta.

Bentall Kennedy received accolade for their “Great Calgary Cake Off” competition, which provided the local community the opportunity to raise funds and awareness for a number of charities. Ten local teams, each representing a different charity, competed in a cake-decorating contest for the chance to win a $10,000 donation. The competition enlisted the community to vote to determine the winner, which heightened awareness for all participating charities. At the conclusion of the contest, the winning team’s charity, Cystric Fibrosis Canada, received the generous donation.

“This award recognition is a testament to the enthusiasm and hard work of the community that we are so proud to be a part of,” said Stephen J. Michniewicz, Senior Vice President, National Retail Operations, Bentall Kennedy (Canada) LP. “It is gratifying to see the dedication, ideas, and creativity of our team and North Hill Centre’s staff manifest into such a fulfilling event, especially on a limited budget. On behalf of the North Hill Centre ownership and Bentall Kennedy, we are proud of everyone involved in making the event a success.”

The Canadian Community Support Awards recognize and promote the most outstanding examples of social responsibility by shopping centers in the region. To commemorate this honor, the ICSC Foundation has donated $5,000 USD to Cystic Fibrosis Canada, Bentall Kennedy’s partnering charity.

“Our valuable partnership with North Hill Centre through the Great Calgary Cake Off event has been instrumental to our success in helping to fund cystic fibrosis (CF) clinics. The event helped us achieve new recognition and awareness from donors and volunteers who had never heard of cystic fibrosis before,” said Kristy Gill, Regional Executive Director Cystic Fibrosis Canada. “The ICSC Foundation’s generous contribution of $5,000 will help to support cystic fibrosis research and clinical care. These efforts bring hope to 150 children and their families that attend the specialized CF clinic at the Alberta Children’s Hospital.”

The ICSC Foundation presented the award to Bentall Kennedy during a ceremony at the Canadian Convention in Toronto. The Canadian Community Support Award winner, along with the winners of other international community support awards, are automatically entered into a global competition for the Albert Sussman International Community Support Award, which will be announced on May 22, 2016 at RECon in Las Vegas.

Want to learn more? Join the conversation on Twitter via @ICSC and #ICSCFoundation with the hashtag #MindfulMalls to recognize shopping centers that share a common vision of making a difference.

The ICSC Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the ICSC whose mission is to strengthen the global retail real estate industry by supporting students, professionals and the philanthropic work of shopping centers. For more information, visit www.icscfoundation.org.

Founded in 1957, ICSC is the global trade association of the shopping center industry. Its more than 70,000 members in over 100 countries include shopping center owners, developers, managers, investors, retailers, brokers, academics, and public officials. The shopping center industry is essential to economic development and opportunity. They are a significant job creator, driver of GDP, and critical revenue source for the communities they serve through the collection of sales taxes and the payment of property taxes. These taxes fund important municipal services like firefighters, police officers, school services, and infrastructure like roadways and parks. Shopping centers aren’t only fiscal engines however; they are integral to the social fabric of their communities by providing a central place to congregate with friends and family, discuss community matters, and participate in and encourage philanthropic endeavors. For more information about ICSC visit www.icsc.org and for the latest news from ICSC and the industry go to www.thecenterofshopping.com.

SOURCE: International Council of Shopping Centers

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ICSC Foundation presents the Canadian Community Support Award to Bentall Kennedy for their charitable campaign at the North Hill Centre in Calgary

Posted on October 9, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

Swedish ICA stores sales rose by 4.1% in September 2015 compared with the corresponding month last year

Solna, Sweden, 2015-10-9 — /EPR Retail News/ — Sales in the Swedish ICA stores rose by 4.1% in September 2015 compared with the corresponding month last year. Sales in like-for-like stores increased by 3.4%.

	September 2015			January – September 2015
Store sales, excl. VAT	SEKm	Change all stores	Change like-for-like	SEKm	Change all stores	Change like-for-like
Maxi ICA Stormarknad	2,537	6.9%	4.2%	24,121	5.9%	3.6%
ICA Kvantum	2,065	4.0%	4.2%	19,372	4.6%	3.5%
ICA Supermarket	2,621	2.6%	2.3%	24,678	2.1%	2.4%
ICA Nära	1,280	2.2%	2.7%	12,182	2.2%	2.6%
Total	8,503	4.1%	3.4%	80,353	3.8%	3.0%

In September 2015, sales in the Swedish ICA stores totalled SEK 8,503 million excluding VAT, which is an increase of 4.1% compared with the same month in the previous year. Sales in January-September 2015 amounted to SEK 80,353 million, an increase of 3.8% compared with the previous year.

At 30 September 2015, the number of ICA stores in Sweden was 1,304.

Store sales for October will be published on 9 November 2015 at 08.45 CET. To see all publication dates in 2015, please visit ICA Gruppen’s website http://www.icagruppen.se/en/investors/calendar.

For more information
ICA Gruppen press service, telephone: +46 10 422 52 52

ICA Gruppen discloses the information provided herein pursuant to the Securities Market Act and/or the Financial Instruments Trading Act. The information was submitted for publication at 08.45 CET on Thursday, 8 October 2015.

Posted on October 9, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

Sports Direct International plc enters into sale and purchase agreement with Sandra Minor to purchase shares in Warrnambool

Shirebrook, United Kingdom, 2015-10-9 — /EPR Retail News/ — Sports Direct International plc (“Sports Direct” or the “Group”), the UK’s leading sports retailer, announces that it has entered into: (i) a sale and purchase agreement with Sandra Minor (a minority shareholder in Warrnambool) to purchase shares in Warrnambool which, following completion of that purchase will result in Sports Direct owning just over 50% of Warrnambool (the Purchase Agreement); and (ii) a conditional put and call option agreement (the Option Agreement) with Mark Heaton, Hugh Heaton, John O’Neill, Warrnambool and Katipo Limited in relation to the remaining shares in Warrnambool which are not already owned by Sports Direct (Sports Direct currently holds 50% of the issued share capital of Warrnambool).

Warrnambool is the holding company of Heatons, a retail business which specialises in retailing men’s, women’s and children’s clothing together with homewares, with 44 stores in the Republic of Ireland and ten stores in Northern Ireland. 27 of the 44 stores in the Republic of Ireland incorporate a dedicated “SportsWorld” section within the store and each of the ten stores in Northern Ireland either incorporates a “Sports Direct” branded section or is located immediately adjacent to a “Sports Direct” outlet which forms part of the premises. In addition, Warrnambool owns and operates a further five standalone “Sports Direct” branded stores in Northern Ireland.

The total cash consideration payable under the Purchase Agreement and the conditional Option Agreement is €47.5m, which will be funded from the Group’s operating cashflow and existing bank facilities. The Purchase Agreement and the conditional Option Agreement are both conditional upon merger clearance from the Irish Competition and Consumer Protection Commission being obtained. If such merger clearance is obtained, completion of the purchase of shares from Sandra Minor under the Purchase Agreement will take place shortly thereafter. The options are exercisable at various times during a period commencing after such merger clearance has been obtained and ending on 2 July 2017.

For the year ended 30 April 2015, Warrnambool had consolidated revenue of €219.3 million, gross assets of €158.0 million, EBITDA of €17.2 million and profit before tax of €10.0 million.

Dave Forsey, Chief Executive Officer of Sports Direct, commented: “We look forward to accelerating investment into the existing store portfolio and strengthening the Heatons and Sports Direct brands across Ireland”.

For further information, please contact:

Sports Direct International plc
T. 0344 245 9200
Dave Forsey, Chief Executive Officer
Matt Pearson, Acting Chief Financial Officer

Powerscourt
T. 0207 250 1446
Rory Godson
Peter Ogden
Nick Brown

Notes to Editors

Sports Direct is the UK’s leading sports retailer by revenue and operating profit, with approximately 400 stores across the UK. The Group provides an unrivalled range of products, offering exceptional quality and unbeatable value, from a wide variety of third-party and Group-owned brands, both in-store and online. Sports Direct now operates in 20 countries in Europe.

For more information please visit: www.sportsdirectplc.com

Posted on October 9, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

MANGO opens new megastore at London’s popular Victoria Street

The brand now has 69 retail outlets in the United Kingdom with this new 1,000 m2 store

Barcelona, 2015-10-9 — /EPR Retail News/ — MANGO is consolidating its presence in the United Kingdom with the opening of a new store. London is the location for the store, which has a surface area of almost 1,000 m2 distributed on two floors.

The premises, located in London’s popular Victoria Street, stocks two of the brand’s lines (MANGO and MANGO Kids) and represents the 69th MANGO retail outlet since it arrived in the capital in 1999.

As well as London, other English cities such as Manchester and Birmingham already have a megastore, bringing to 4 the total number of megastores in the country.

MANGO opened its first store on Barcelona’s Passeig de Gràcia in 1984, and now has over 2,700 stores in 108 countries. MANGO closed the 2014 financial year with a Consolidated Group turnover for the MANGO-MNG Holding of 2.017 billion euros, representing a 9% increase on 2013, and an EBITDA of 223 million euros.

CONTACTS
PR INTERNATIONAL
PR
Spain
press@mango.com
T. +34 938 602 222

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MANGO opens new megastore at London’s popular Victoria Street

MANGO store – Victoria

Posted on October 9, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

MANGO Man presents Zinédine Zidane as the face of the new Autumn/Winter 2015 campaign #zidaneformango during Paris Fashion Week

PARIS, 2015-10-9 — /EPR Retail News/ — MANGO Man presents the French superstar Zinédine Zidane as the face of the new Autumn/Winter 2015 campaign #zidaneformango during Paris Fashion Week.

The firm have invited numerous media to the mythical Pin Up stadium in Paris. Zidane posed for all of them in his characteristic informal and friendly manner, dealing with questions on his latest collaboration with MANGO Man.

For this season, the Spanish firm has opted for essential tones such as beige, camel, toast and khaki, in addition to indigo blue and a range of greys. The key garments include parkas, Brit-style check shirts and a wide range of knitwear-structured garments, together with jogging-style trousers.

Talking about the collection, Zinédine Zidane said: I don’t want to sound repetitive, but I really liked the winter collection. It is simple, with a good cut and it offers many combinations, just the way I like it. I hope that it shows because I think the models chosen really suit me.

MANGO Man was founded in 2008 and now has 290 retail outlets in 52 countries, including Spain, France, Germany and Russia.

CONTACTS
PR INTERNATIONAL
PR
Spain
press@mango.com
T. +34 938 602 222
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Zidane for MANGO

Posted on October 9, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

Reasor’s received Retail Brand Extension Marketer of the Year Award from Certified Angus Beef® brand

Tahlequah, OK, 2015-10-9 — /EPR Retail News/ — The Certified Angus Beef ^® brand salutes Reasor’s stores for offering and creatively marketing great-tasting beef. Reasor’s received the brand’s Retail Brand Extension Marketer of the Year Award on Sept. 25 because it gives customers the ultimate choice of high-quality beef with the Certified Angus Beef ^® brand, as well as the brand’s Prime cuts in the service case and the brand’s Natural beef in select stores. Customers also enjoy Certified Angus Beef^® brand deli meats and hot food items, which offer convenience, too.

“Reasor’s is intent on delivering solutions to customers and the beef they crave,” says John Stika, the Certified Angus Beef ^® brand’s president. “We’re proud to align with their focus for helping consumers enjoy great-tasting beef from our family ranchers to your family table.”

The retailer also earned a Top Five Sales Volume Retailer award, moving up one spot in the worldwide ranking. Visit your local Reasor’s for the best in beef, the Certified Angus Beef^® brand.

SOURCE: Reasor’s

Posted on October 9, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

OFS and the Schnucks Food Safety team partnership makes “Meat Rescue” program a daily reality

“Every third meal provided by Operation Food Search to low-income individuals is due to direct charitable donations from Schnucks”

ST. LOUIS, 2015-10-9 — /EPR Retail News/ — For more than 30 years, Schnuck Markets, Inc. has helped Operation Food Search (OFS) feed hungry residents of the St. Louis area by providing food donations as well as financial contributions. Over this three-decade partnership, meat protein donations were rare due to food safety concerns. Thanks to a committed partnership between OFS and the Schnucks Food Safety team over the course of the past five years, “Meat Rescue” today is a daily reality. Working closely with OFS member agencies, Schnucks and OFS have developed a system to safeguard proper food handling of meat donations, allowing those in need to receive the nutritional benefits of a meat-based main course. Initially piloted in two stores in 2010, meat recovery is now taking place in nearly every Schnucks location and has served as a model program to others.

“Over the past six months, Schnucks has donated more than 500,000 pounds of meat protein in addition to bakery, produce, dairy and other items,” says Sunny Schaefer, OFS Executive Director. “This totals a staggering 11 million pounds of food annually, or the equivalent of 6,250,000 meals to nourish hungry children and adults. In fact, every third meal provided by Operation Food Search to low-income individuals is due to direct charitable donations from Schnucks.”

These donations align with one of Schnucks’ highest community relations priorities: providing hunger relief to residents within the communities it serves. “We partner with key hunger relief organizations across our five-state area through our year-round, and often daily, donations of food,” says Joanie Taylor, Schnucks director of consumer affairs and community relations. “‘The Meat Rescue program is one of the first in the nation, and because of its success, it is now being replicated by hunger relief agencies and grocers across the county,” Taylor adds.

In addition to daily donations of food, OFS benefited from more than $800,000 in proceeds from the Schnucks 75^th Anniversary Gala in 2014. OFS used the funds to purchase a new refrigerated box truck and to increase the impact of its nutrition education outreach that assists low-income individuals in learning how to prepare healthy, affordable meals.

Operation Food Search was established in 1981 to address the growing problem of hunger and has since become the largest distributor of free food resources in the bi-state area. Each month, the organization distributes nearly three million pounds of food and household items at no cost to 250 member agencies in the City of St. Louis and in 26 Missouri and Illinois counties. These community partners in turn feed 190,000 people in need each month, nearly one-third of whom are children. For every dollar donated by individuals, corporations, foundations and organizations, OFS provides $22 worth of food and nutrition services to assist the hungry.

Founded in St. Louis in 1939, Schnuck Markets, Inc. is a third-generation, family-owned grocery/pharmacy retailer committed to nourishing people’s lives. The company takes pride in its community partnerships and gives in kind and cash donations to more than 500 not-for-profit organizations each year. Schnucks currently operates 98 stores in Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin and Iowa. Privately held, Schnucks employs nearly 15,000 teammates and is headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri. Follow Schnucks on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Schnucks.

Media Contact:

Paul Simon
314-994-403
psimon@schnucks.com

SOURCE: Schnucks

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Posted on October 9, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

Smart & Final Stores LLC to acquire 28 store leases and related assets from affiliates of Haggen Holdings, LLC for $56 million

COMMERCE, Calif., 2015-10-9 — /EPR Retail News/ — Smart & Final Stores, Inc. (the “Company”) (NYSE:SFS) today announced that its subsidiary, Smart & Final Stores LLC, has entered into an agreement to acquire 28 store leases and related assets from affiliates of Haggen Holdings, LLC ( “Haggen”) for a cash purchase price of $56 million, subject to certain adjustments (the “Transaction”). The Company has agreed to be a “Stalking Horse Bidder” in a court-supervised sale of certain of Haggen’s assets, and will be entitled to certain break-up fees and expense reimbursement should an alternate higher bid ultimately be approved.

If the Company is approved as the successful bidder in the auction for Haggen’s assets, the Transaction is expected to close during the Company’s fiscal fourth quarter 2015, subject to bankruptcy court and other customary approvals.

If completed, the Transaction will result in Smart & Final assuming the leases and acquiring certain associated assets of 27 closed stores in central and southern California and one closed store in Las Vegas, Nevada, which most recently have been operated as “Haggen” banner stores. The Company plans to convert these stores to its Smart & Final Extra! store format, including investment in store fixtures and equipment, decor and signage and infrastructure upgrades. The Company intends to fund the Transaction and related investment from existing cash and availability under credit facilities.

The timing of the conversion process will vary on a store by store basis and is expected to start during the Company’s fiscal fourth quarter of 2015 and to be completed during the Company’s second quarter of 2016. The newly converted Extra! stores will reflect Smart & Final’s distinctive operational footprint and store layout as well as unique, high-quality merchandise offering tailored to both household and business customers.

Smart & Final currently operates 270 stores under the Smart & Final and Cash & Carry store banners. If completed, the Transaction would expand Smart & Final’s footprint in theCalifornia and Nevada markets and build upon its history of delivering quality products with exceptional value and shopping convenience to customers in the neighborhoods they serve.

About Smart & Final
Smart & Final Stores, Inc. (NYSE: SFS), is a value and quality-oriented food and everyday staples retailer that serves household and business customers. The Company is headquartered in Commerce (near Los Angeles), California, where it was founded over 140 years ago. As of October 4, 2015, the Company operated 270 grocery and foodservice stores under the “Smart & Final”, “Smart & Final Extra!” and “Cash & Carry Smart Foodservice” banners in California, Oregon, Washington, Arizona, Nevada, and Idaho, with an additional 16 stores in northern Mexico operated through a joint venture.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements contained in this release that are not historical information contain forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties and actual results may differ materially from those projected or implied. Further, certain forward-looking statements are based on assumptions of future events which may not prove to be accurate. These forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, including the terms “may,” “should,” “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “could,” “intends,” “target,” “projects,” “contemplates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “potential” or “continue” or, in each case, their negative, or other variations or comparable terminology. The Company derives many of its forward-looking statements from its operating budgets and forecasts, which are based upon many detailed assumptions. While the Company believes that its assumptions are reasonable, it is difficult to predict the impact of known factors and, of course, it is impossible to anticipate all factors that could affect actual results. These factors are discussed in the “Risk Factors,” “Special Note Concerning Forward-Looking Statements,” “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” and “Business” sections and elsewhere in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

You should keep in mind that any forward-looking statement made by the Company herein, or elsewhere, speaks only as of the date on which made. New risks and uncertainties come up from time to time, and it is impossible for the Company to predict these events or how they may affect it. The Company has no obligation to update any forward-looking statements after the date hereof, except as required by federal securities laws.

SOURCE: Smart & Final Stores, Inc.

Posted on October 9, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

BJ’s Restaurants announces the opening of its new restaurant in Canton, Ohio

HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif., 2015-10-9 — /EPR Retail News/ — BJ’s Restaurants, Inc.(NASDAQ:BJRI) today announced the opening of its new restaurant in Canton, Ohio, on Monday, October 5, 2015. The new BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse® is located at the regional shopping area called The Strip at Portage Road and Strip Avenue NW. The restaurant is approximately 7,300 square feet, seats approximately 225 guests and features BJ’s extensive menu, including BJ’s signature deep-dish pizza, award-winning handcrafted beer and famous Pizookie® dessert. BJ’s unique, contemporary décor provides the perfect environment for all dining occasions. Hours of operation are from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 midnight Sunday through Thursday, and 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday.

“We are excited to open our sixth restaurant in the state of Ohio,” commented Greg Trojan, President and CEO. “The new Canton BJ’s is our first restaurant in northeast Ohio, where we expect to add additional restaurants over the next several years. With our two planned upcoming openings in Akron, Ohio and Longview, Texas, we will achieve our stated goal of 16 new restaurants in fiscal 2015.”

BJ’s Restaurants, Inc. currently owns and operates 169 casual dining restaurants under the BJ’s Restaurant & Brewery®, BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse®, BJ’s Pizza & Grill® and BJ’s Grill® brand names. BJ’s Restaurants offer an innovative and broad menu featuring award-winning, signature deep-dish pizza complemented with generously portioned salads, appetizers, sandwiches, soups, pastas, entrees and desserts, including the Pizookie® dessert. The Company operates several microbrewery restaurants in addition to using independent third party brewers to produce and distribute BJ’s critically acclaimed craft beers. The Company’s restaurants are located in the 22 states of Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Indiana, Kansas,Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia and Washington. Visit BJ’s Restaurants, Inc. on the Web at http://www.bjsrestaurants.com.

Certain statements in the preceding paragraphs and all other statements that are not purely historical constitute “forward-looking” statements for purposes of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and are intended to be covered by the safe harbors created thereby. The “forward-looking” statements contained in this press release are based on current assumptions and expectations and BJ’s Restaurants, Inc. undertakes no obligation to update or alter its “forward-looking” statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Investors are referred to the full discussion of risks and uncertainties associated with forward-looking statements contained in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its recent reports on Forms 10-K, 10-Q and 8-K.

For further information, please contact Greg Levin of BJ’s Restaurants, Inc. at (714) 500-2400 or JCIR at (212) 835-8500 or at bjri@jcir.com.

SOURCE: BJ’s Restaurants, Inc.

Posted on October 9, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

Colruyt opens revamped store at Herbettelaan in Anderlecht after a few months of renovation work

Renovated Colruyt Anderlecht (Herbettelaan) reopens on 7 October

Halle, Belgium, 2015-10-9 — /EPR Retail News/ — On Wednesday 7 October, the revamped Colruyt store opens at Herbettelaan in Anderlecht after a few months of renovation work. The store was expanded, revamped into a new-generation Colruyt store and it received a brand-new butcher’s department.

New-generation store

“Colruyt regularly renovates its stores to make them more efficient and to make shopping for customers more pleasant“, store manager Didier Delfosse explains. “For instance, at the fresh market we replaced the plastic flaps with an air curtain. When making renovations, we always aim at simplicity and the lowest costs, as our customers expect from us.”

Larger fresh market and new butcher’s department

The store was enlarged by one fifth. Didier Delfosse: “This allowed us to enlarge the fresh market, add three check-out points and make the aisles wider. As a result, customers can shop more smoothly. And in the basement car park, they can find room for their car thanks to extra parking places.”

Colruyt Anderlecht (Herbettelaan) also has a brand-new butcher’s department. Head butcher Olivier Quarin: “Our customers have a nice overview of the range of meat, cold cuts and salads. And they can see our butchers at work in an open workshop. Customers can easily talk to them if they have questions or special orders.”

Collect&Go: Colruyt shops for the customer

The Collect&Go pick-up point at Anderlecht has been enlarged and is located in the store’s basement car park. “Collect&Go is the handy service of Colruyt to shop for the customers”, the store manager explains. “They send us their shopping list online or with their smartphone, and we have their products ready at the pick-up point on the day and at the time of their choice. This is a handy service, and they save time!”

Special open evening

From Wednesday 7 October, store manager Didier Delfosse, head butcher Olivier Quarin and their 64 employees will be on hand to welcome their customers at the new Colruyt Anderlecht (Herbettelaan).

Didier Delfosse: “The evening before, on Tuesday evening 6 October from 5 to 8 p.m., everyone is invited for a preview of the renovations. During this special open evening, customers will be offered snacks and a drink. Everyone is most welcome!”

For more information, please contact:

– Fabrice Rosier (regional manager) at 02 360 10 40

– Jan Derom (press officer Colruyt Group) at 0473 92 45 10

Practical information:

Colruyt Anderlecht

Maurice Herbettelaan 57
1070 Anderlecht

Opening times:

Mon-Sat: 8.30 – 20.00
Fri: 8.30 – 21.00

Open evening:
Tuesday 6 October from 17.00 to 20.00

Contact
Jan Derom
press@colruytgroup.com
+32 (0)2 363 55 45
+32 (0)473 92 45 10

SOURCE: Colruyt Group

Posted on October 9, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

Colruyt opens newly renovated Avelgem Colruyt store

New Colruyt Avelgem opens on 7 October

Halle, Belgium, 2015-10-9 — /EPR Retail News/ — On Wednesday 7 October the renovated Avelgem Colruyt store will open its doors after a few months of renovation work. The old store was demolished and a new-generation Colruyt store was built instead. In this new store, Colruyt will also test an electronic price labels system.

New-generation store

Colruyt Avelgem has been revamped into a new-generation store. Store manager Charon Haezebrouck: “Colruyt regularly renovates its stores to make them more efficient and to make shopping for customers more pleasant. At the fresh market for instance, we replaced the plastic flaps with an air curtain, the employees wear comfortable working clothes, etc. When making renovations, we always aim at simplicity and the lowest costs, as our customers expect from us.”

New butcher’s department

The new store is 2,100 m² large. Customers can find a vast range of food and non-food products in all the departments.

For fresh quality meat, they can visit the brand-new butcher’s department. Head butcher Thierry Vanthorre: “Our customers have a nice overview of the range of meat, cold cuts and salads. And they can see the butchers at work in an open workshop. Customers can easily talk to them if they have questions or special orders.”

Electronic price labels

In the new store, Colruyt tests new, electronic price labels with which prices can be adapted automatically. “We had been looking for electronic price labels with which we could display our Red Prices in red”, the store manager explains. “And we found them. With this system we can display the reduced prices even more quickly. And we can work more efficiently. We can thus save a lot of costs, which means we can continue to guarantee the lowest prices.”

Collect&Go: Colruyt shops for the customer

The Collect&Go pick-up point is now located at the store, so no longer on the car park where it was while the store was closed. Store manager Charon Haezebrouck: “Collect&Go is the handy Colruyt service where we shop for our customers. They send us their shopping list over the Internet or using their smartphones, and we have their products ready at the pick-up point on the day and time of their choice. It’s a handy service, and they save time!”

Special open evening

From Wednesday 7 October, store manager Charon Haezebrouck, head butcher Thierry Vanthorre and their 54 employees – 6 more than before – will be on hand to welcome customers at the new Colruyt Avelgem store.

Charon Haezebrouck: “The evening before, on Tuesday evening 6 October from 5 to 8 p.m., everyone is invited for a preview of the renovations. During this special open evening, customers will be offered snacks and a drink. Everyone is most welcome!”

For more information, please contact:

– Yves Demoor (regional manager) at 02 360 10 40

– Jan Derom (press officer Colruyt Group) at 0473 92 45 10

Practical information:

Colruyt Avelgem

Doorniksesteenweg 272
8580 Avelgem

Opening times:

Mon-Sat: 8.30 – 20.00
Fr: 8.30 – 21.00

Open evening:
Tuesday 6 October from 17.00 to 20.00

Contact
Jan Derom
press@colruytgroup.com
+32 (0)2 363 55 45
+32 (0)473 92 45 10

SOURCE: Colruyt Group

Posted on October 9, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

Conad ha distribuito sinora 250 milioni di shopper in Mater-Bi, pari a 4.300 tonnellate di plastica biodegradabile

Bologna, Italia, 2015-10-9 — /EPR Retail News/ — Dopo i segnali di ripresa dei consumi che vengono dal carrello della spesa, anche la plastica degli imballaggi registra dati positivi per ciò che riguarda la raccolta differenziata.

Conad ha distribuito sinora 250 milioni di shopper in Mater-Bi, pari a 4.300 tonnellate di plastica biodegradabile. In una ricerca condotta tra i propri clienti, è emerso che 8 su 10 si dichiarano non disposti a tornare all’utilizzo dei vecchi shopper in plastica tradizionale e 1 su 3 li riutilizza abitualmente in occasione di una nuova spesa. I dati vengono presentati nel convegno “Consumatori consapevoli e eco-friendly: dai sacchetti di plastica alle borse riutilizzabili” in programma oggi 7 ottobre a Roma, a Palazzo Santa Chiara.

7.306 comuni hanno da tempo avviato la raccolta differenziata – la produzione di imballaggi ha raggiunto lo scorso anno i 2,1 milioni di tonnellate, in crescita dell’1,9 per cento rispetto all’anno precedente –, raccolta che coinvolge 57 milioni di abitanti, il 96 per cento della popolazione. La raccolta differenziata ha prodotto benefici all’ambiente: evitata l’emissione in atmosfera di 388 mila tonnellate di CO2, risparmiati 8 mila GWh di energia, ridotto di 27 milioni di m3 il conferimento in discarica (fonte: Corepla 2014). Di imballaggi in plastica ne sono state raccolte 846 mila tonnellate, l’8 per cento in più rispetto al 2013 (13,9 kg a testa).

Conad – che ha iniziato a sostituire gli shopper in plastica un anno prima che, nel 2011, entrasse in vigore la legge – sta spingendo sull’uso di borse in plastica riciclata e in cotone e per il ri-uso degli shopper, oltre che di shopper in carta e scatole ripiegate in cartone certificati Fsc, il sistema di certificazione internazionale specifico per i prodotti derivati dal legno delle foreste. «Trattiamo questi prodotti, componente del nostro forte legame con il territorio, come veri e propri prodotti a marchio, destinati a ricevere tutte le attenzioni e i controlli che riserviamo agli alimentari e al non food che portano la nostra firma», annota il direttore marketing canali distributivi Conad Alberto Moretti. «Nel 2014 abbiamo emesso 516 milioni di scontrini e distribuito 250 milioni di shopper monouso biodegradabili. Oltre il 50 per cento dei nostri clienti si serve di una delle nostre borse riutilizzabili o sta riutilizzando uno shopper biodegradabile. Visto che in media un cliente fa la spesa nei punti di vendita Conad 68 volte all’anno, se si servisse sempre di una borsa riutilizzabile, potrebbe risparmiare all’ambiente 1,2 kg di plastica, per quanto biodegradabile, visto che ogni shopper pesa 17 grammi. Ovvero 4.250 tonnellate di plastica, con un risparmio di circa 10 mila tonnellate di CO2».

Dati importanti nell’ottica della salvaguardia dell’ambiente, in cui l’Italia segna un primato: l’entrata in vigore della legge che regola il divieto della vendita di shopper in plastica tradizionale è stata “adottata” dal Parlamento Europeo quale direttiva per gli Stati membri al fine di ridurre il consumo degli imballaggi in plastica. Un divieto che trova d’accordo l’89 per cento delle persone, mentre il 90 per cento si dice d’accordo con la legge che consolida abitudini virtuose, non meno di quanto è accaduto con la raccolta differenziata.

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Posted on October 9, 2015 by EPR Retail News Editors

Topaz to introduce Ireland’s newest fresh, urban food concept, Rocket’s to 40 forecourts nationwide

45 new jobs to be created as part of an 11.4 million investment

Dublin, Ireland, 2015-10-9 — /EPR Retail News/ — Topaz, Ireland’s largest fuel and convenience brand, has announced a €11.4 million investment which will see them introduce Ireland’s newest fresh, urban food concept, Rocket’s to 40 forecourts nationwide. The rollout, which will take place over a seven year period, will result in the creation of 45 direct jobs in 2015.

The first Rocket’s at Topaz concept has been launched at Topaz in Douglas, Co. Cork and sites at Dublin Port and Brennanstown, Co Wicklow will be serving the best in fresh quality food to Topaz customers before the end of 2015. A further 15 outlets will be rolled out throughout 2016.

Rocket’s is a new fast casual way to enjoy the best hamburgers around.

The concept has been designed with forecourts in mind and will offer Topaz customers the most innovative forecourt dining experience in Ireland.

With an emphasis on the best quality fresh ingredients, all hamburgers are made using 100% natural, freshly ground Irish beef. The new offering will also serve up unique and portable, freshly-made salads, hotdogs, tenders and milkshakes. All menu options are freshly made-to-order with a speedy service guaranteed.

Emmet O’Neill Topaz CEO, commented: “This year has been a big year for Topaz with the roll out of our Re.Store concept across Irealnd – the addition of Rocket’s will further set us apart. We had been looking for the perfect fast casual offer and we’ve found it! Rocket’s is bang on trend and exactley where we want to drive our business. The creation of 45 new jobs is all part of our continued plan for growth.”

Niall Fortune, Owner at Eddie Rocket’s commented: “We are delighted to be able to bring our food to customers all around Ireland with Topaz, and we are very excited to have opened the first location at the Topaz Service Station, Douglas Co. Cork last week. As Ireland’s largest convenience and fuel retailer, Topaz is the perfect fir for us to bring our food offering to consumers throughout the country. Since Rocket’s launch last year, we have learned a great deal about the casual dining customer and have perfected our speed of service, portability of food and the overall taste experience to bring Topaz customers an unrivalled food offering.”

SOURCE: Topaz Energy Group Limited

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Topaz to introduce Ireland’s newest fresh, urban food concept, Rocket’s to 40 forecourts nationwide