Daily Archives: November 13, 2015

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Plenty of high-quality, large, fresh turkeys available for preorder at Whole Foods Market stores or online

Outdoor access, strict standards make for plentiful supply of better birds this Thanksgiving

AUSTIN, Texas, 2015-11-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — Shoppers can find plenty of high-quality, large, fresh turkeys this year at Whole Foods Market. Thanksgiving options range from organic, kosher, heirloom, free-range and heritage, to hand-brined or pre-cooked, and are available for preorder at Whole Foods Market stores or online at shop.wholefoodsmarket.com.

“Our industry-leading standards and supplier planning allow us to ensure we meet the demand of our customers and prevent the effects of unpredictable seasonal shortages,” said Theo Weening, global meat buyer for Whole Foods Market. “We work closely with our suppliers as they raise birds to our standards, and we make early commitments to ensure they have a place to sell.”

Like all meat at Whole Foods Market, turkeys are raised to meet quality standards that require no antibiotics and no animal byproducts in their feed–ever. All Whole Foods Market turkeys come from farms that are certified under the 5-Step™ Animal Welfare Rating System, so shoppers can know exactly how turkeys were raised.

In addition to providing shoppers with a range of cuts of the highest quality meats, Whole Foods Market’s skilled butchers can answer any questions about prepping, cooking, and carving the perfect Thanksgiving turkey.

Theo Weening

Global Meat Buyer

Theo’s passion for quality meats; intricate knowledge of raising practices, cuts and preparation techniques; and his dedication to the art of a centuries-old craft has made him a highly-sought national expert.

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Plenty of high-quality, large, fresh turkeys available for preorder at Whole Foods Market stores or online

Plenty of high-quality, large, fresh turkeys available for preorder at Whole Foods Market stores or online

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Rite Aid the first U.S. drugstore chain to offer Harmonyx genetic testing

Tests help determine most effective medication therapy based on an individual’s genetic makeup 

Camp Hill, Pa., 2015-11-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — Rite Aid Corporation (NYSE: RAD) and Harmonyx, a leader in affordable and accessible genetic testing, announced today the availability of select genetic tests in all Rite Aid pharmacies except those in New York state. Rite Aid is the first U.S. drugstore chain to offer Harmonyx genetic testing.

The self-administered oral swab test will help patients determine the effectiveness of their prescription medication based on their genetic makeup. Currently, Rite Aid is offering genetic testing for three classes of medications including those used to manage cardiac conditions, cholesterol and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Rite Aid pharmacists are available to help patients and physicians determine if a particular test is medically appropriate.

“At Rite Aid, we are committed to offering our customers unique and innovative products, services and programs that meet their individual wellness needs, and personalized medication therapy through genetic testing is a perfect example of such a service,” said Jocelyn Konrad, Rite Aid executive vice president of pharmacy. “By offering Harmonyx genetic testing to our customers, we’re helping to ensure that the medication they are taking is the most effective medication to help them treat and manage their condition while avoiding unnecessary and potentially harmful side effects.”

Customers can purchase the testing kit at any Rite Aid (except those in New York). Once the customer’s cheek is swabbed, Rite Aid pharmacists return the sample to Harmonyx for processing. Harmonyx provides a state licensed physician to review each patient test and detailed results are returned to both the pharmacist and treating physician in as little as 24 hours once the laboratory receives the test. Rite Aid pharmacists are available to discuss the results with the patient and their physician to find the best medication choice based on the patient’s genetic makeup and other relevant clinical factors.

“Knowledge really is power so the more people who are aware of the availability and accessibility of these genetic tests, the greater the impact we can have on the health of our communities,” said Bob Bean, Harmonyx president and CEO. “With our tests now being at nearly 4,000 Rite Aid locations, we have an opportunity to make a true difference in the lives of people by making sure that the medication they are taking is the right therapy for them.”

To find the nearest Rite Aid pharmacy that offers Harmonyx testing, visit http://www.harmonyxdiagnostics.com.

Harmonyx Diagnostics is an innovative Memphis-based company that is changing the way medicine is prescribed in America. Founded in 2009, Harmonyx believes patients should have the power to pay for affordable genetic testing without the hurdles health insurance can cause. Harmonyx uses a fully automated genotyping system to deliver fast, easy and accurate results to qualified healthcare professionals, helping them determine the appropriate medication and dosing for each patient. Harmonyx is a CAP-accredited and CLIA-certified automated genetic testing laboratory. For more information, visit www.harmonyxdiagnostics.com.

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

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Contact:

Media: Ashley Flower 717-975-5718

SOURCE: Rite Aid Corp.

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Meijer Simply Give campaign to double match every customer’s $10 donation made Nov. 13-14

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., 2015-11-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — The Meijer Simply Give campaign this holiday season comes on the heels of the retailer’s most successful campaign ever, and will once again double match every customer’s $10 donation made Nov. 13-14 in an effort to restock the shelves of its food pantry partners.

The holiday campaign runs through Jan. 2, but the Grand Rapids, Mich.-based retailer plans to distribute a first installment donation to each of its participating food pantries before the holidays begin so the families they serve have the food they need.

“We are very appreciative of the generosity our customers and team members have shown this year, and we are looking forward to partnering with them again during the holiday Simply Give campaign to help feed our hungry neighbors,” Co-Chairman Hank Meijer said. “Hunger is a problem that continues to increase in all of our communities, and no one deserves to go without.”

Meijer began its Simply Give program in November 2008 as a way to help local food pantries throughout the Midwest achieve their missions of feeding hungry families. Since then, the program has generated more than $18 million for those partners to restock their shelves and feed hungry families. In fact, the fall campaign that ended in September was the most successful campaign in the program’s history, bringing in more than $3 million.

More importantly, those donations stay local, said Cathy Cooper, senior director of community partnerships and giving.

“We know how important it is to our customers that their generous donations remain in their local communities,” Cooper said. “That’s why each of our stores partner with a local food pantry during the Simply Give campaigns.”

During each Simply Give campaign, customers are encouraged to purchase $10 Meijer Food Pantry Donation Cards that are then converted into Meijer food-only gift cards and given to the food pantry selected by the store. The holiday campaign will run through Jan. 2.

Simply Give Double Match Days held Nov. 13-14 will stretch those donations even further: For every $10 donation card purchase, Meijer will give $20 to the program, resulting in a total $30 donation.

Customers can find the donation cards on fixtures near the checkout; they will also be near the Meijer Taste of Meijer in-store sampling stations Nov. 14.

To view a video that further explains the Simply Give program, and other Meijer hunger relief efforts, please visit http://newsroom.meijer.com/meijer-simply-give.

About Meijer Philanthropy:
Meijer is a family-owned retailer based in Grand Rapids, Mich. with a fundamental philosophy aimed at strengthening the communities it serves. Meijer proudly donates more than 6 percent of its net profit each year to charities throughout the Midwest. With hunger as a corporate philanthropic focus, Meijer partners with hundreds of food banks and pantries through its Simply Give and food rescue programs. Meijer also supports education, disaster relief, and health and wellness initiatives. For additional information on Meijer philanthropy, please visit www.meijercommunity.com. Follow Meijer on Twitter @twitter.com/Meijer and @twitter.com/MeijerPR or become a fan at www.facebook.com/meijer.

Contact: Christina Fecher, 616-735-7968, christina.fecher@meijer.com

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P&G former group president Melanie Healey elected to Target Corporation’s Board of Directors

MINNEAPOLIS, 2015-11-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — Target Corporation (NYSE: TGT) announced today its board of directors elected Melanie Healey, former group president, North America, of The Procter & Gamble Company (P&G, NYSE: PG), as a new director, effective immediately.

Ms. Healey, 54, spent more than 25 years at P&G. During her tenure, she worked in Brazil, Mexico, Venezuela and the United States, most recently as group president and advisor to the chairman and chief executive officer, from January 2015 until July 2015 and as group president, North America, from 2009 until December 2014. Her history at the company includes a variety of leadership roles in marketing and in the health and personal care businesses, including group president, global feminine and health care. Prior to P&G, Ms. Healey held positions at S.C. Johnson & Sons and Johnson & Johnson.

“Mel brings to Target’s board more than 30 years of CPG experience and a passion for improving the lives of consumers around the world. She has a track record of delivering growth, driving operational improvements and launching successful product innovations for globally recognized brands. She also has a history of building wellness brands, which will provide an important perspective as Target continues to elevate wellness as one of our signature categories,” said Brian Cornell, chairman and CEO of Target.

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

media contact

Dustee Jenkins
Public Relations
p: (612) 696-3400

John Hulbert
Investor Relations
p: (612) 761-6627

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Morrisons Campylobacter results for the whole of 2015 below the 7% FSA target

Bradford, England, 2015-11-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — Since 2013 we have been working hard to reduce Campylobacter levels in fresh chicken. We have introduced a Campylobacter reduction plan which, following independent tests has shown significant improvements year on year. Our results for the whole of 2015 are below the 7% FSA target.

We understand that campylobacter can be a concern when it comes to fresh chicken. However there are simple steps you can take to minimise the risk of food poisoning. Do not wash poultry, use separate utensils and surfaces for raw and cooked foods and ensuring poultry is thoroughly cooked.

At Morrisons we have listened to the concerns about high levels of campylobacter found on some fresh chickens and since 2013 we have made significant progress in tackling campylobacter throughout our supply chain.

The facts

Campylobacter is a common bacteria found on raw chicken

Campylobacter is destroyed if chicken is cooked thoroughly

As a bacteria, xampylobacter can be transferred on to any surface that raw chicken contacts

Food Standards Agency (FSA) advice is don’t wash raw chicken

Information about campylobacter and food safety can be found on the FSA website http://www.food.gov.uk/news-updates/campaigns/campylobacter

What we’ve achieved

We have worked with our suppliers to introduce a detailed Campylobacter Action Plan which has successfully reduced campylobacter levels on fresh chicken.

We have established our own monitoring program, carried out by an independent accredited laboratory, which has been in place since 2013. Our tests are based on a larger sample size than the FSA survey and results show levels of campylobacter steadily reducing.

As a result of our Campylobacter Action Plan we have seen a consistent reduction in campylobacter levels and significant year on year improvement. This year our results show that on average only 4.8% of chickens tested have the higher levels of contamination compared to the FSA retail target of 7%

We are working closely with the FSA and regularly provide updates on our own results and performance

What’s next?

While the results of our reduction programme are extremely encouraging we are not complacent and we will continue to work closely with the FSA and our suppliers to reduce the presence of campylobacter even further.

Morrisons Campylobacter Action Plan 2015

From the farm to your kitchen, we have studied the journey of fresh chicken and introduced range of measures to combat campylobacter.

At the farm

1. Every farm supplying Morrisons with chicken is audited to ensure improved levels of Bio-security are in place. The farms are audited frequently to ensure compliance and to drive continuous improvements. Additionally enhanced levels of Bio-security training for Farm and Catching teams have also been implemented across our supply base.

2. A program of improved modernised design is being implemented for farm buildings to enhance bio security – this is a long term continuous process

3. Morrisons is trialling financial incentives for farmers who keep their flocks free from Campylobacter.

4. Morrisons continue to investigate the effect of not thinning on a number of supplying farms (thinning is the selective removal of birds during the growing cycle) – the process of thinning potentially impacts on bio-security).

Processing

1. Morrisons is committed to only use suppliers with demonstrable Campylobacter reduction plans. One of our suppliers has invested £25m in recent months.

2. Morrisons has developed its own ‘Slaughterhouse Campylobacter Best Practice Standard’ and have audited all our whole bird suppliers against it. This systematically reviews evisceration and carcase washing standards in the slaughterhouse to drive continuous improvement across our supply base.

3. Process innovation is being implemented across our supply base for example:

  • a. Our major chicken supplier has just installed a Sonosteam system. This steam/ ultrasound system has been scientifically proven to significantly reduce Campylobacter levels.
  • b. In December our other main supplier is installing a secondary scalding process which has been scientifically proven to significantly reduce Campylobacter levels.
  • c. Our main supplier has installed UV equipment to further reduce the risk of Campylobacter being present on the whole bird packaging.

4. Morrisons are working with its key suppliers on other processing interventions including, Rapid Surface Chilling.

5. A programme of improvements has been driven in factory process flows and handling procedures, to better segregate product and sealed packs to minimise the possibility of the outside of our packs being cross contaminated with Campylobacter.

Packaging

1. Our robust Food Messaging on pack informs the customer:

  • Do not wash poultry
  • Store raw meat covered at the bottom of the fridge
  • Use separate utensils and surfaces for raw and cooked foods or wash thoroughly in between use
  • Wash hands after handling raw meat and poultry
  • Unwrap and dispose of packaging carefully

2. We have robust packaging on our poultry products to minimise the risks of cross contamination in store or at home

3. For customers who prefer not to directly handle the chicken we have introduced cook in the bag chickens across half of our range

Media contact
For all media enquiries call 0845 611 5111
Available 24 hours

SOURCE: Wm Morrison Supermarkets plc

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7‑Eleven to recruit 100 veterans and provide $2 million in discounts for Military Veterans Franchise Program by end of 2016

DALLAS, 2015-11-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — 7‑Eleven, Inc.,ranked among top military and veteran-friendly companies, wants to provide more franchise opportunities to qualified men and women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces The retailer has set a goal of recruiting 100 veterans and providing $2 million in discounts by the end of 2016.

Launched in the summer of 2009, 7‑Eleven’s program offers discounted franchise fees to retired or separated military veterans who have been honorably discharged from the service within the past five years. Qualified veterans who become first-time 7‑Eleven franchisees receive up to a 20-percent discount on the initial franchise fee for the first 7‑Eleven® store they franchise. This discount ranges from $1,000 to approximately $35,000, depending on the store.

“What better time to announce our intent to continue providing more opportunities in the coming year for those who served our country than around Veterans Day,” said Greg Franks, 7‑Eleven franchise systems vice president. “U.S. military veterans have the skills, focus and dedication to achieve great success as franchisees.”

Franks added, “We‘ve been successful in making it a little easier for veterans to achieve the American dream of owning their own business. In the past six years, 82 military vets have received $1.5 million in franchise-fee discounts. An additional 10 have started on the path to becoming franchisees.”

Just recently, 7‑Eleven franchised stores to three winners in the company’s Operation Take: Command program. Some 1,700 military veterans competed for a franchise fee-free 7‑Eleven store of their choice among available locations.

Mark Anthony Page assumed command of his Burleson, Texas, store in August; Salil Gautam franchised his pick in Norfolk, Va., in September, and Robert Kemna is expected to take control of a Miami 7‑Eleven store in December.

7‑Eleven has been recognized for its veteran-hiring practices and support of military families and was named among Top Military Friendly® Employers for 2016 by Victory Media and itsG.I. Jobs magazine. The retailer also has supported military-assistance organizations including Hire Heroes USA, the USO, Reserve Aid, Warrior Gateway and Operation Mend. The company has military veterans serving in every level from top management to field staff to store sales associates.

More information on the Military Veterans Franchise Program can be found at www.franchise.7‑Eleven.com.

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 10,700 7 Eleven® stores in North America. Globally, there are nearly 57,400 7 Eleven stores in 17 countries. 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
7‑Eleven, Inc.
972-828-7285
Margaret.Chabris@7-11.com

SOURCE: 7-Eleven, Inc.

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LVMH implements EUR 5 million internal carbon fund

PARIS, 2015-11-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — For the first time in its history LVMH announces the implementation of an internal carbon fund which is already estimated at over 5 million euros. The fund will be financed by contributions from each Maison, calculated using the greenhouse gas emissions generated by their activities, specifically in terms of  energy consumption in their production sites and stores. Examples of the projects that will be financed by this fund are investments in energy consumption reduction equipment (LED and cooling equipment) or the production of renewable energy on an international scale.

“The most beautiful materials  used in viticulture and oenology , the creation of perfumes and cosmetics, fashion and leather goods and jewellery which are the heart of our business, are all provided by nature. Environmental performance has been integrated into the growth strategy of all our Maisons in the same way as quality, innovation and creativity. Today respect for the environment is not only an imperative, it is also a lever that drives progress.”, commented Bernard Arnault, Chairman and CEO of LVMH.

The Maisons will each contribute 15/euros per tonne which is standard current practice. The price will be reviewed each year. The carbon fund will take effect in 2016.

The LVMH carbon fund is an additional step in the implementation of the LIFE programme (LVMH Initiatives For the Environment) which the Group created in 2013 in order to integrate the environment into the management processes of each Maison. It fits within all of the Group’s activities in relation to COP21, with which LVMH is one of the partners.

About LVMH
LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton is represented in Fashion and Leather Goods by a portfolio of brands that includes Louis Vuitton, Céline, Loewe, Kenzo, Givenchy, Thomas Pink, Fendi, Emilio Pucci, Donna Karan, Marc Jacobs, Berluti, Nicholas Kirkwood and Loro Piana. Its Wines and Spirits division includes Moët & Chandon, Dom Pérignon, Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin, Krug, Ruinart, Mercier, Château d’Yquem, Domaine du Clos des Lambrays, Château Cheval Blanc, Hennessy, Glenmorangie, Ardbeg, Wenjun, Belvedere, Chandon, Cloudy Bay, Terrazas de los Andes, Cheval des Andes, Cape Mentelle, Newton et Numanthia. LVMH is present in the Perfumes and Cosmetics sector with Parfums Christian Dior, Guerlain, Parfums Givenchy, Parfums Kenzo, Perfumes Loewe as well as other promising cosmetic companies (BeneFit Cosmetics, Make Up For Ever, Acqua di Parma and Fresh). LVMH is also active in selective retailing as well as in other activities through DFS, Sephora, Le Bon Marché, la Samaritaine and Royal Van Lent. LVMH’s Watches and Jewelry division comprises Bulgari, TAG Heuer, Chaumet, Dior Watches, Zenith, Fred, Hublot and De Beers Diamond Jewellers Ltd, a joint venture created with the world’s leading diamond group.

Contacts
Analysts / Investors :
Chris Hollis – LVMH
+33 1 44 13 21 22

Media :

France
Michel Calzaroni / Olivier Labesse / Sonia Fellmann / Hugues Schmitt
+33 1 40 70 11 89
DGM Conseil

UK
Hugh Morrison
+ 44.773.965 5492

Italy
Michele Calcaterra
+39 335 46 19 85

US
James Fingeroth / Molly Morse / Anntal Silver
+1 212 521 4800
Kekst and Company

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Digital Insight and CUneXus Solutions partner to resell CUneXus’ cplXpress product to Digital Insight financial institution customers

cplXpress to help Digital Insight increase engagement and maximize profitability of existing customer relationships

DULUTH, Ga., 2015-11-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — Digital Insight, an NCR company and leader in digital banking solutions and CUneXus Solutions, a financial services software development firm focused on data-driven consumer lending strategies, have partnered together to resell CUneXus’ cplXpress product to Digital Insight financial institution customers. By reselling cplXpress, Digital Insight is helping its financial institution customers increase loan volumes and engagement at every physical and digital touch point.

CUneXus’ cplXpress platform allows financial institutions to provide their customers with perpetual loan approval. This unique and timely solution utilizes advanced data analysis to completely bypass the loan application process, granting consumers ongoing insight into their personal borrowing power and immediate access to pre-approved loan offers.

“We’ve been long-term partners with Digital Insight and are excited to bring our cplXpress product to more financial institutions through this reseller agreement. We’re also proud to announce that cplXpress is now available through single sign-on (SSO) within Digital Insight’s online banking, desktop widget and mobile applications,” Dave Buerger, president of CUneXus Solutions. “Digital Insight clients can now offer their customers convenient, self-serve access to an assortment of preapproved loan offers within their online banking websites and mobile applications.”

As part of this new agreement, Digital Insight customers who utilize the cplXpress platform will be able to:

  • Streamline their client onboarding process
  • Choose on-premise or full-service hosted solutions
  • Provide more prominence to CUneXus loan offers via configurability options provided via the Digital Insight mobile banking app
  • Offer convenient “one-click” loan access, with no application form required
  • Drive significant consumer loan volumes and revenues from their online and mobile banking channels

“We’re always looking for ways to help financial institutions maximize the profitability of existing customer relationships, and with our new reseller agreement we’re delivering on that commitment,” said Jeff Hughes, general manager of Digital Insight and CTO of NCR Financial Services. “The sales and marketing automation within cplXpress provides financial institutions with access to a powerful, consumer lending strategy that helps cut costs, increase sales and enhance customer experience and satisfaction.”

“The CUneXus cplXpress solution enables our credit union to offer pre-screen pre-approvals on multiple loan types – when and where it’s most relevant for members,” said Ken Bloomfield, vice president of marketing and digital experience for Harborstone Credit Union. “Members win by having convenient access to loan pre-approvals by branch, phone, online, and mobile every day of the year. It’s available to them when they need it, and not by some pre-determined mailing cycle. This increases the convenience and overall trust from members and, in turn, creates loyalty to Harborstone.”

Digital Insight clients interested in this offering should contact their Digital Insight relationship manager.

About CUneXus Solutions
CUneXus Solutions develops leading edge financial technology software products and omni-channel marketing solutions that improve the efficiency of transactions between individuals and lending institutions. CUneXus and the cplXpress product line have been featured at Finovate, the Innotribe Startup Challenge, Bank Innovation, NetFinance Interactive, The World Council of Credit Unions and more. The company was also recognized as one of just ten startups to watch on KPMG’s global report of “The Best Fintech Innovators of 2014.”

About Digital Insight
Digital Insight, an NCR company, helps banks and credit unions achieve their goals and grow by offering innovative online and mobile banking solutions that make it easier for consumers and businesses to manage their money. Our proven banking innovations give financial institutions the flexibility and control to engage more, increase retention and cross-sell effectively.

About NCR Corporation
NCR Corporation (NYSE: NCR) is the global leader in consumer transaction technologies, turning everyday interactions with businesses into exceptional experiences. With its software, hardware, and portfolio of services, NCR enables more than 550 million transactions daily across retail, financial, travel, hospitality, telecom and technology, and small business. NCR solutions run the everyday transactions that make your life easier.

NCR is headquartered in Duluth, Georgia with over 30,000 employees and does business in 180 countries. NCR is a trademark of NCR Corporation in the United States and other countries.

Suggested Links:

Gain more banking insights at Banking.com.
Follow Digital Insight on Twitter, like on Facebook or connect on LinkedIn.
Follow CUneXus Solutions on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Vimeo.

News Media Contacts:

Heather Almand
Digital Insight, an NCR company
770.349.1217
Heather.almand@digitalinsight.com

Roxanne Alaniz
Alaniz Marketing for CUneXus
415.892.5252
Roxanne@alanizmarketing.com

SOURCE: NCR

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Lindex: Sustainable Water Resources for cleaner textile production wins the prestigious 2015 Habit Fashion Award for Sustainability

The successful Swedish collaboration Sustainable Water Resources (SWAR) for cleaner textile production has won the prestigious 2015 Habit Fashion Award for Sustainability. Lindex is one of the initiators of the project together with fashion industry colleagues KappAhl, Indiska and Stockholm International Water Institute. SWAR was honored by the Habit of its impact in terms of efficient use of water, energy and chemicals in textile production in India.

Gothenburg, Sweden, 2015-11-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — In this project, for a more sustainable textile production, we have demonstrated the power of collaboration and shared learnings. Together with our suppliers and fashion industry colleagues, we have achieved fantastic results with simple means. And this is only the beginning, now we expand the project to more factories and countries, says Anna-Karin Dahlberg, Production Support Manager at Lindex.

Annually the SWAR factories saved over 360 million litres of water, equaling the needs of more than 3.5 million people. Through its parent network, Sweden Textile Water Initiative, the successful pilot programme has now scaled up across India and in China, Bangladesh, Turkey, and Ethiopia, expanding its impact to 120 factories supplying 20 major Swedish brands.

SWAR has enabled us to over-perform on almost all social, environmental and business metrics that we identified at the project start. In addition, it provided clear evidence and data through exact measurements of water consumption meters, project implementation sheets for each implemented projects, and testimonials provided by the factories. This kind of accurate intelligence is often very hard to secure when working across industry borders,” said Indiska, Lindex and KappAhl jointly.

The SWAR initiative puts the value of water at the heart of resource efficiency and sustainable development solutions. The approach combines achieving measurable results with building capacities and empowering people at brand headquarters, factory, and institutional levels. It is a market-¬driven approach that creates demand for sustainable water use in production, based on real risk mitigation, and supplies management solutions to meet that demand.

About Sustainable Water Resources (SWAR)
SWAR is a capacity building and technical support programme for 64 suppliers and sub-suppliers to Swedish brands Indiska, KappAhl and Lindex in India (Delhi NCR and Rajasthan). The programme was co-funded by the brands and the Swedish International Development Agency (Sida) and was implemented by Stockholm International Water Institute (SIWI)

More information about Sweden Textile Water Initiative (STWI) at www.stwi.se
More information about Stockholm International Water Institute (SIWI) at www.siwi.org

For more information, please contact:

Linda Skogsberg
Sustainability Communications Coordinator, Lindex
Phone: 46 (0) 31 739 51 58
E-mail: linda.skogsberg@lindex.com

 

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Lindex: Sustainable Water Resources for cleaner textile production wins the prestigious 2015 Habit Fashion Award for Sustainability

Lindex: Sustainable Water Resources for cleaner textile production wins the prestigious 2015 Habit Fashion Award for Sustainability

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Lindex opens its second store in London

Gothenburg, Sweden, 2015-11-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — Today (November 6, 2015) Lindex opens the doors to its second store in London. The fashion chain is unique in the UK market and the earlier establishment in Westfield, Stratford City has been a success with significant impact among customers, the fashion press and bloggers.

“We distinguish ourselves in many ways here in London and the response has been great. We have many returning customers and meet new ones each day. Our customers are particularly excited about Lindex Scandinavian design, the quality, our playful kids range and our service. We now look forward to opening in West London to reach even more customers” says Lena Provén, Country Manager, Lindex UK.

The new store is a full concept store with fashion for women, children and lingerie. Opening with The Greatest Knits campaign, customers are offered a stylish autumn collection that will inspire their winter wardrobe.

The store concept highlights the brand’s Scandinavian heritage through the interior design, including natural materials, and an interesting mix of different textures and patterns.

The Lindex store opening has sparked interest in the British fashion press and among fashion bloggers. Yesterday an event was held in collaboration with Elle UK to present the latest fashion trends.

Store employees have been carefully selected to provide the service and inspiration required to deliver a world class fashion experience to every customer.

“Word has spread how positive and fun it is working at Lindex and requests to work in the store have been great. What makes us unique as an employer is that we work vision and values-driven. It gives employees opportunities to take the initiative to meet our customers and present our fashion in the best way, “says Lena.

For more information, contact:

Miriam Tjernström
Press Relations Manager, Lindex
Phone: 46 (0)31 739 50 60
E-mail: miriam.tjernstrom@lindex.com

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New Look Retail Group H1 FY16: Revenue up 5.9% to £756.0m

NEW LOOK RETAIL GROUP LIMITED (“New Look”) First Half Results for the 26 weeks ended 26 September 2015

LONDON, 2015-11-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — Strong First Half performance with significant progress made against strategic initiatives

Financial Highlights*

  • Revenue +5.9% to £756.0m (H1 FY15: £713.6m)
    • New Look Brand like-for-like sales +4.9%
    • UK like-for-like sales +4.7%
    • Own website sales +37.9%
    • Third Party E-commerce sales +47.2%
  • Adjusted EBITDA +5.1% to £121.7m (H1 FY15: £115.8m)
  • Underlying operating profit +10.9% to £94.8m (H1 FY15: £85.5m)
  • Profit before tax (adjusted for the non-recurring exceptional transaction and refinancing costs in Q1 FY16) +40.6% to £39.5m (H1 FY15: £28.1m)
  • Non-recurring exceptional transaction costs of £93.2m** relating to the Brait acquisition and refinancing, resulting in a statutory loss before tax of £53.7m

* from continuing operations
** consisting primarily of debt premium repayments due to the refinancing. New debt structure has resulted in annualised interest savings of over £30m

Operational Highlights

Following a strong Q1, we have delivered further growth in Q2 due to the continued successful execution of strategy:

  • Our Menswear offer is performing well, with further improvements in our product and the successful launch of our first standalone menswear stores.
  • Successful progress in China, with 52 stores open by the end of H1 FY16, and leases signed to take us to 85 stores by March 2016.
  • A further 34 stores now trading in the Concept format, taking us to a total of 385 stores. We continue to roll this format out across the remainder of the estate.
  • Convenience across all channels remains key to our customer proposition. Additional delivery options have driven own website sales and footfall into stores; 31% of our e-commerce customers use Click & Collect.

Anders Kristiansen, Chief Executive Officer, said:

“These excellent results show the strength of the New Look offer and the strategic progress we have made in our product, stores and website. Against an unpredictable consumer backdrop we are especially pleased to have seen further Q2 sales improvement and market share growth, on what were already strong Q1 figures.

“We have also seen a positive reaction to our Autumn/Winter collection and we have been delighted with the initial performance of our men’s standalone stores.

“Our Chinese stores continue to perform well as customers continue to react favourably to our fashion-forward offer. We remain on target to have 85 stores open in the country by year end.

“With the support of our new owners, Brait, we are planning to increase investment in our strategic initiatives to accelerate our growth.

“As for current trading, the sector has benefitted from the return to more normalised weather conditions compared to last year. We continue to manage the business prudently but the positive reaction to our current product offer gives us confidence as we head into Christmas.”

Tulchan Communications LLP
Lucy Legh
Will Smith
020 7353 4200

About New Look
Founded in 1969, New Look has grown from a single store to become a dynamic, international, multichannel retail brand with a unique value-fashion offer in apparel, footwear and accessories for women, men and teenage girls. New Look is the No. 2 value retailer for women’s clothing and accessories market in the UK (source: Kantar Worldpanel for year to September 2015). The New Look Group has over 800 stores across the globe in 21 countries, and our estate of 571 UK stores places New Look in immediate reach of the majority of the British population.

H1 FY16 Results

SOURCE: New Look Group Limited

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Kmart launches The Giving Hat™ to raise funds in the fight against childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases

Retailer collaborates with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital® for inspirational and fashionable addition to the St. Jude Thanks and Giving® fundraising campaign this holiday season

HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill., 2015-11-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — In collaboration with St. Jude, Kmart has introduced The Giving Hat™ – a new way to draw attention, heighten awareness and raise funds in the fight against childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. The Giving Hat™ is a stylish winter knit hat, one-size-fits-all and available in three versions embroidered with messages inspired by St. Jude patients and their families: “Smile,” “Laugh A Lot,” and “Give Thanks.”

Since 2006, Kmart Shop Your Way members, customers and associates have embodied the holiday spirit with their generous support of the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital® Thanks and Giving® campaign – making Kmart the hospital’s No. 1 supporter with more than $76.7 million raised.

One dollar from the sale of each $5 hat will be added to the millions of dollars Kmart stores are raising this holiday season for St. Jude.* The Giving Hat™ is available exclusively at all Kmart stores and online at Kmart.com/StJude while supplies last.

“I’ve seen first-hand the courage of St. Jude patients, and the passion of the doctors, nurses, scientists, and staff,” saidAlasdair James, Kmart President and Chief Member Officer. “They are deeply committed to defeating childhood cancer and other diseases. The Giving Hat™ is another way we can let the families of St. Jude know we support them and are thinking of them this holiday season. Even small gestures can have an amazing impact.”

St. Jude and Kmart collaborated on a moving digital video to celebrate the launch of the hat, featuring several celebrities, including longtime Kmart ambassador and St. Jude supporter Jaclyn Smith. The video launched today on Kmart’s YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/3tYnrnmPk7I.

Make a difference:

  • Shoppers can join the conversation and spread the word on social media by sharing a photo wearing the hat with the hashtag, #TheGivingHat.
  • Tweet This: Help fight childhood cancer by buying @Kmart #TheGivingHat. $1 from each hat sold will be donated to @StJude. http://bit.ly/1jSbPXx

“Kmart continues to be a leader for our St. Jude Thanks and Giving® campaign and we are grateful for their unwavering commitment to the children of St. Jude,” said Marlo Thomas, National Outreach Director for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. “The incredible support of their customers and associates allows us to keep my father’s founding promise that no family ever pays St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food because we believe all a family should worry about is helping their child live.”

In addition to The Giving Hat™, Kmart also offers an adorable holiday bear ornament. With each St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital ornament purchased, Kmart will donate $1 to help St. Jude’s lifesaving mission**. Customers can also donate directly to St. Jude via a link at Kmart.com/StJude.

*Kmart will donate $1 from the sale of The Giving Hat to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital between 11/8/15 – 12/31/15 with a minimum guaranteed donation of $50,000 to St. Jude. 

**Through December 24, 2015, Kmart is donating $1.00 from the in­ store or online purchase of each qualifying bear ornament to St. Jude, with a minimum donation of $50,000.

About Kmart
Kmart, a wholly owned subsidiary of Sears Holdings Corporation (NASDAQ: SHLD), is a mass merchandising company and part of Shop Your Way, a social shopping experience where members have the ability to earn points and receive benefits across a wide variety of physical and digital formats through shopyourway.com. Kmart offers customers quality products through a portfolio of exclusive brands that include Jaclyn Smith, Joe Boxer, Route 66 and Smart Sense. For more information visit the company’s website at www.kmart.com | Sears Holdings Corporation website at www.searsholdings.com | Facebook: www.facebook.com/kmart.

About St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is leading the way the world understands, treats and defeats childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. It is the only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center devoted solely to children. Treatments invented at St. Jude have helped push the overall childhood cancer survival rate from 20 percent to 80 percent since the hospital opened more than 50 years ago. St. Jude is working to drive the overall survival rate for childhood cancer to 90 percent, and we won’t stop until no child dies from cancer. St. Jude freely shares the discoveries it makes, and every child saved at St. Jude means doctors and scientists worldwide can use that knowledge to save thousands more children. Families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food – because all a family should worry about is helping their child live.  Join the St. Jude mission by visiting stjude.org or following St. Jude on facebook.com/stjude and twitter.com/stjude.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Brian Hanover
Kmart PR
847-286-6080
brian.hanover@searshc.com

Mary Ann Schoppman
Zeno Group for Kmart
312-527-2742
MaryAnn.Schoppman@zenogroup.com

SOURCE Kmart

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Kmart launches The Giving Hat™ to raise funds in the fight against childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases

Kmart launches The Giving Hat™ to raise funds in the fight against childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases