Daily Archives: July 15, 2016

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PERFUMES & COSMETICS: Benefit launches new Brow Collection

Paris, 2016-Jul-16 — /EPR Retail News/ — Benefit has been a trailblazer in beautiful brows since the brand’s beginnings in the 1970’s. The key to a great look, brows get magical treatment thanks to the Benefit Brow Collection, a complete range of new products from the cosmetics house.

Brows may be the biggest buzz in beauty today, but for Benefit, brows have been the most powerful way to transform your look since 1976. Founders Jean and Jane Ford started doing brows in their first makeup boutique in San Francisco, giving birth to the now famous BrowBar. Four decades later, there are over 1,800 BrowBar beauty lounges in over 40 countries, making Benefit the world’s leading brow authority.

The first brow products for customers to use at home were introduced back in 1980 and Benefit has never stopped innovating with better products to solve brow dilemmas. The fruit of three years of work to determine what customers really needed, the Brow Collection is a complete range of solutions for beautiful brows. The nine products in the collection are easy to use and matched to every individual. They join such hugely popular products as Gimme Brow, a volumizing fiber gel and applicator brush. The range of colors has also expanded from three to six natural shades. With custom-designed applicators, pencils and gel, the Benefit Brow Collection has the solution for every brow dilemma!

Contact:

LVMH Moët Hennessy – Louis Vuitton
22, avenue Montaigne, 75008 Paris – France
Tel: +33 (0)1 44 13 22 22
Fax: +33 (0)1 44 13 22 23

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Benefit Cosmetics
Benefit Cosmetics

 

Source: LVMH

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The Michaels Companies, Inc. announced the pricing of the previously disclosed secondary offering by certain of its stockholders

IRVING, Texas, 2016-Jul-16 — /EPR Retail News/ — The Michaels Companies, Inc. (NASDAQ:MIK) (the “Company”) today announced the pricing of the previously disclosed offering by certain of its stockholders (the “Selling Stockholders”) of 11 million shares of the Company’s common stock at a per-share price to the public of $27.85 pursuant to the Company’s shelf registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), of which the Company will purchase from the underwriter 1 million shares of such common stock.  The offering is expected to close on July 18, 2016, subject to customary closing conditions.

The Selling Stockholders will receive all of the net proceeds from this offering. No shares are being sold by the Company.

The Company’s per-share purchase price for the repurchased shares will be the same as the per-share purchase price payable by the underwriter to the Selling Stockholders.

Morgan Stanley is acting as underwriter for the offering.

A registration statement relating to these shares was filed with the SEC on July 9, 2015 and became effective upon filing. The offering of these shares will be made only by means of a prospectus. Before you invest, you should read the prospectus, the registration statement and the documents incorporated by reference in that registration statement, as well as the prospectus supplement related to this offering.  You may obtain these documents for free by visiting EDGAR on the SEC website at www.sec.gov.  When available, copies of the prospectus supplement and accompanying prospectus related to the offering may be obtained from Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC – Attn: Prospectus Department – 180 Varick Street, 2nd Floor – New York, NY 10014.

This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of, these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the registration or qualification under the securities laws of such state or jurisdiction.

About The Michaels Companies, Inc.:

The Michaels Companies, Inc. is North America’s largest specialty provider of arts, crafts, framing, floral, wall décor, and seasonal merchandise for the hobbyist and do-it-yourself home decorator. As of April 30, 2016, the Company owned and operated 1,352 stores in 49 states and Canada under the brands Michaels, Aaron Brothers, and Pat Catan’s.  The Michaels Companies, Inc. also owns Artistree, a manufacturer of high quality custom and specialty framing merchandise, and Darice, a premier wholesale distributor in the gift and decor industry.  The Michaels Companies, Inc. produces a number of exclusive private brands including Recollections®, Studio Decor™, Bead Landing®, Creatology®, Ashland®, Celebrate It®, ArtMinds®, Artist’s Loft®, Craft Smart®, Loops & Threads®, Make Market®, Foamies®, LockerLookz®, and Sticky Sticks®.

Forward-Looking Statements:

Certain information contained in this news release, particularly information regarding the completion of the offering and the repurchase by the Company, constitute forward-looking statements. The words “anticipate”, “assume”, “believe”, “continue”, “could”, “estimate”, “expect”, “forecast”, “future”, “guidance”, “imply”, “intend”, “may”, “outlook”, “plan”, “potential”, “predict”, “project”, and similar terms and phrases are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. The Company cannot assure investors that future developments affecting the Company will be those that it has anticipated. Actual results may differ materially from these expectations due to risks relating to the effect of economic uncertainty, market conditions and other risks and uncertainties identified under the heading “Risk Factors” included in the prospectus, the Company’s Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 17, 2016, which is available at www.sec.gov, and other filings that the Company may make with the SEC in the future. If one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or if any of the Company’s assumptions prove incorrect, the Company’s actual results may vary in material respects from those projected in these forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement made by the Company in this news release speaks only as of the date on which the Company makes it. Factors or events that could cause the Company’s actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for the Company to predict all of them. The Company does not undertake and specifically disclaims any obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by any applicable securities laws.

Investor Contact:

Kiley F. Rawlins, CFA
972.409.7404
Kiley.Rawlins@michaels.com

ICR, Inc.
Farah Soi
203.682.8200
Farah.Soi@icrinc.com

Anne Rakunas
Anne.Rakunas@icrinc.com

Financial Media Contact:

ICR, Inc.
Michael Fox
203.682.8200
Michaels@icrinc.com

Jessica Liddell
203.682.8208

Source: Michaels Stores, Inc.

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Certain of The Michaels Companies, Inc stockholders intend to offer for sale 11 million shares of the Company’s common stock

IRVING, Texas, 2016-Jul-16 — /EPR Retail News/ — The Michaels Companies, Inc. (NASDAQ:MIK) (the “Company”) today announced that certain of its stockholders (the “Selling Stockholders”) intend to offer for sale 11 million shares of the Company’s common stock pursuant to the Company’s shelf registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), of which the Company intends to purchase from the underwriter 1 million shares of such common stock.  In conjunction with this offering, the Company announced that it anticipates that its results for the second quarter of fiscal 2016 will be in the lower-to-middle range of the previously disclosed guidance.

The Selling Stockholders will receive all of the net proceeds from this offering. No shares are being sold by the Company.

The Company’s per-share purchase price for the repurchased shares will be the same as the per-share purchase price payable by the underwriter to the Selling Stockholders.

Morgan Stanley will act as underwriter for the offering.

A registration statement relating to these shares was filed with the SEC on July 9, 2015 and became effective upon filing. The offering of these shares will be made only by means of a prospectus. Before you invest, you should read the prospectus, the registration statement and the documents incorporated by reference in that registration statement, as well as the prospectus supplement related to this offering.  You may obtain these documents for free by visiting EDGAR on the SEC website at www.sec.gov.  When available, copies of the prospectus supplement and accompanying prospectus related to the offering may be obtained from Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC – Attn: Prospectus Department – 180 Varick Street, 2nd Floor – New York, NY 10014.

This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of, these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the registration or qualification under the securities laws of such state or jurisdiction.

About The Michaels Companies, Inc.:

The Michaels Companies, Inc. is North America’s largest specialty provider of arts, crafts, framing, floral, wall décor, and seasonal merchandise for the hobbyist and do-it-yourself home decorator. As of April 30, 2016, the Company owned and operated 1,352 stores in 49 states and Canada under the brands Michaels, Aaron Brothers, and Pat Catan’s.  The Michaels Companies, Inc. also owns Artistree, a manufacturer of high quality custom and specialty framing merchandise, and Darice, a premier wholesale distributor in the gift and decor industry.  The Michaels Companies, Inc. produces a number of exclusive private brands including Recollections®, Studio Decor™, Bead Landing®, Creatology®, Ashland®, Celebrate It®, ArtMinds®, Artist’s Loft®, Craft Smart®, Loops & Threads®, Make Market®, Foamies®, LockerLookz®, and Sticky Sticks®.

Forward-Looking Statements:

Certain information contained in this news release, particularly information regarding the completion of the offering and the repurchase by the Company, constitute forward-looking statements. The words “anticipate”, “assume”, “believe”, “continue”, “could”, “estimate”, “expect”, “forecast”, “future”, “guidance”, “imply”, “intend”, “may”, “outlook”, “plan”, “potential”, “predict”, “project”, and similar terms and phrases are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. The Company cannot assure investors that future developments affecting the Company will be those that it has anticipated. Actual results may differ materially from these expectations due to risks relating to the effect of economic uncertainty, market conditions and other risks and uncertainties identified under the heading “Risk Factors” included in the prospectus, the Company’s Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 17, 2016, which is available at www.sec.gov, and other filings that the Company may make with the SEC in the future. If one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or if any of the Company’s assumptions prove incorrect, the Company’s actual results may vary in material respects from those projected in these forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement made by the Company in this news release speaks only as of the date on which the Company makes it. Factors or events that could cause the Company’s actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for the Company to predict all of them. The Company does not undertake and specifically disclaims any obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by any applicable securities laws.

Investor Contact:

Kiley F. Rawlins, CFA
972.409.7404
Kiley.Rawlins@michaels.com

ICR, Inc.
Farah Soi
203.682.8200
Farah.Soi@icrinc.com

Anne Rakunas
Anne.Rakunas@icrinc.com

Financial Media Contact:

ICR, Inc.
Michael Fox
203.682.8200
Michaels@icrinc.com

Jessica Liddell
203.682.8208

Source: Michaels Stores, Inc.

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Groupe Casino Q2 2016: Group organic growth of +3.8%; market share gains in France

Paris, France, 2016-Jul-16 — /EPR Retail News/ —

In France, sales up +1.2% on an organic basis and +0.2% on a same-store basis

  • Géant Casino: +2.2%(1) growth (same-store and organic) and ongoing gains in market share
  • Leader Price: sales up +1.7% on an organic basis and +1.1% on a same-store basis
  • Supermarchés Casino: organic growth of +3.1% and same-store growth of +1.2%, and market share gains

In Latin America, food sales up +11.8% on an organic basis

  • Exito (excluding Brazil): acceleration in organic and same-store growth, led by good performances in Colombia, Uruguay and Argentina
  • GPA Food: sequential improvement in activity with organic growth of +11.4% and same-store growth of +6.3%
  • Via Varejo: positive sales on an organic basis (+0.3%) and same-store basis (+2.6%) after four consecutive quarters of declining revenues

E-commerce:

  • Cdiscount: organic growth of +10.6% and gross merchandise volume up +12.6%
  • Cnova Brazil: sharp decline in activity considering the high basis of comparison in Q2 2015 and the economic slowdown in Brazil

“Full results”  http://www.groupe-casino.fr/en/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2016/07/2016-13-07-PR-Q2-2016-Sales_v2.pdf

ANALYST AND INVESTOR CONTACTS:

Régine Gaggioli
Tel: +33 (0)1 53 65 64 17
rgaggioli@groupe-casino.fr
+33 (0)1 53 65 24 17
IR_casino@groupe-casino.fr

PRESS CONTACTS
Casino
Tél : +33 (0)1 53 65 24 78
Directiondelacommunication@groupe-casino.fr

IMAGE 7
Grégoire Lucas
Tél : +33 (0)1 53 70 74 84
Mob : +33 (0)6 71 60 02 02
glucas@image7.fr

Source: Casino group

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IKEA: voluntary recall of Safety Gate Extensions

CONSHOHOCKEN, PA, 2016-Jul-15 — /EPR Retail News/ — In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Safety Commission, IKEA announced on July 14, 2016 a voluntary recall of the PATRULL Safety Gate and extension, PATRULL KLÄMMA Safety Gate and extension, and PATRULL FAST Safety Gate.

The locking mechanism can open unexpectedly, posing a fall hazard to children and other consumers.

Customers who have a PATRULL Safety Gate and extension, PATRULL KLÄMMA Safety Gate and extension or PATRULL FAST Safety Gate to immediately stop using them and return them back to any IKEA store for a full refund. Proof of purchase (receipt) is not required.

The PATRULL Safety Gate and extension, PATRULL KLÄMMA Safety Gate and extension, and PATRULL FAST Safety Gate were sold at IKEA stores nationwide and online at www.ikea-usa.com from August 1995 through June 2016 for between $10 and $60.

For more information click on the ‘Product Recall Information’ button or call IKEA Toll-free at (888) 966-4532.

We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. We appreciate your cooperation.

Contact:
Joseph Roth
U.S. Public Affairs
(610) 834-0180, ext. 6500

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IKEA: voluntary recall of Safety Gate Extensions
IKEA: voluntary recall of Safety Gate Extensions

Source: IKEA

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IKEA plans for biogas-powered fuel cell systems at four more of its California stores

CONSHOHOCKEN, PA , 2016-Jul-15 — /EPR Retail News/ — IKEA, the world’s leading home furnishings retailer, today announced it is furthering its renewable commitment with plans for biogas-powered fuel cell systems at four more of its California stores. A year ago, IKEA completed installation of such a project at IKEA Emeryville, one of the Swedish company’s two San Francisco-area stores. IKEA now plans to expand its fuel cell portfolio to 1.3 MW with a system at its other San Francisco-area store (in East Palo Alto), as well as three stores in Southern California (Costa Mesa, Covina and San Diego). Pending permits, the fuel cells will be installed, commissioned and operational by this Fall, 2016, complementing solar arrays already atop each of the four stores.

“Based on the success of the system installed last year in Emeryville, we are excited about further increasing our renewable portfolio with four more fuel cell projects,” explained IKEA U.S. president Lars Petersson. “Fuel cells represent another way we can contribute to our goal of generating renewable energy equal to the amount of power we consume worldwide.”

For the design, development and installation of these planned fuel cell systems, IKEA contracted with Sunnyvale-based Bloom Energy a provider of breakthrough solid oxide fuel cell technology generating clean, highly-efficient on-site power.

•Costa Mesa store – opened in 2003; store size: 308,000 SF on 24 acresFUEL CELL PROGRAM: 300 kW generating 2,497,651 kWh/yearEquivalent to reducing 1,315 tons of CO2, 278 cars’ emissions or powering 194 homes

•Covina store – opened in 2003; store size: 325,000 SF on 12.5 acresFUEL CELL PROGRAM: 200 kW generating 1,665,101 kWh/yearEquivalent to reducing 877 tons of CO2, 185 cars’ emissions or powering 130 homes

•East Palo Alto store – opened in 2003; store size: 290,000 SF on 10.5 acresFUEL CELL PROGRAM: 300 kW generating 2,497,651 kWh/yearEquivalent to reducing 1,315 tons of CO2, 278 cars’ emissions or powering 194 homes

•San Diego store – opened in 2000; store size: 198,000 SF on 10 acresFUEL CELL PROGRAM: 200 kW generating 1,665,101 kWh/yearEquivalent to reducing 877 tons of CO2, 185 cars’ emissions or powering 130 homes

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 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, no plastic bags in the check-out process, and selling only LED bulbs/fixtures. IKEA U.S. has installed electric vehicle charging stations at 14 locations and solar arrays at 90% of its locations, integrated two geothermal projects at two store locations and owns two wind farms.

Since its 1943 founding in Sweden, IKEA has offered home furnishings of good design and function at affordable prices. There are currently more than 380 IKEA stores in 48 countries, including 42 in the U.S. IKEA has been ranked among “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
U.S. Public Affairs
(610) 834-0180, ext. 6500

Source: IKEA

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Delhaize Group and Ahold expect their merger to complete before the end of July 2016

BRUSSELS, Belgium, 2016-Jul-15 — /EPR Retail News/ — In the context of the intended merger between Delhaize Group and Ahold, the companies have confirmed today that they expect the merger to complete before the end of July, subject to regulatory approval by the Federal Trade Commission of the United States.

In addition, Ahold today provided further details on its €1 billion capital repayment and reverse stock split, which had been announced on June 24, 2015 and approved by Ahold’s shareholders on March 14, 2016. Please refer to Ahold’s press release of today for further details.

On June 24, 2015, Ahold and Delhaize announced their intention to merge. The shareholders’ meetings of both companies approved the merger in March 2016.The Belgian Competition Authority (BCA) granted its conditional approval for the merger in March 2016. FTC clearance is the final regulatory approval requirement for the merger to complete.

Please visit www.delhaizegroup.com, www.ahold.com, or www.adcombined.com for more information.

Delhaize Group

Delhaize Group is a Belgian international food retailer present in seven countries on three continents. On March 31, 2016, Delhaize Group’s sales network consisted of 3 524 stores. In 2015, Delhaize Group recorded €24.4 billion ($27.1 billion) in revenues and €366 million ($407 million) net profit (Group share). At the end of 2015, Delhaize Group employed approximately 154 000 people. Delhaize Group’s stock is listed on NYSE Euronext Brussels (DELB) and the New York Stock Exchange (DEG).

This press release is available in English, French and Dutch. You can also find it on the website http://www.delhaizegroup.com. Questions can be sent to investor@delhaizegroup.com.

Contacts

Investor Relations: + 32 2 412 2151
Media Relations: + 32 2 412 8669

Source: Delhaize Group

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Ahold and Delhaize Group US subsidiaries to divest 86 stores in connection with US FTC pending review of their merger

Zaandam, the Netherlands, 2016-Jul-15 — /EPR Retail News/ — Ahold and Delhaize Group today announced that their United States subsidiaries have reached agreements with buyers to divest a total of 86 stores in a limited number of locations in which the companies’ U.S. subsidiaries both operate. These divestments are being made in connection with the United States Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) pending review of the proposed merger between the two companies. The divested stores are being sold to well established supermarket operators.

All of the purchase agreements are subject to FTC approval. The agreements are also subject to FTC clearance and formal completion of the Ahold and Delhaize Group merger, which the companies continue to expect before the end of July.

Ahold CEO Dick Boer said: “The combination of Ahold and Delhaize Group is a unique opportunity to deliver even more for customers, associates and local communities. Together, Ahold and Delhaize Group have been working hard to resolve the competition concerns raised by the FTC, and we are pleased to have found strong, well established buyers for the stores we are required to divest. We deeply appreciate the long-time support of our customers and associates in these locations and are confident that the new owners will continue to serve local communities well.”

The buyers of the 86 stores being divested are:

• New Albertson’s, Inc. (part of Albertsons Companies based in Idaho) purchasing 1 Giant Food store in Salisbury, Maryland;
• Big Y (based in Massachusetts), purchasing 8 Hannaford stores in eastern Massachusetts;
• Publix (based in Florida), purchasing 10 MARTIN’S stores in Richmond, Virginia;
• Saubel’s Markets (based in Pennsylvania) purchasing 1 Food Lion store in York, Pennsylvania;
• Supervalu (based in Minnesota), purchasing 22 Food Lion stores in Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia;
• Tops Markets (based in New York), purchasing 1 Stop & Shop store in Massachusetts as well as 3 Stop & Shop stores and 2 Hannaford stores in New York; and
• Weis Markets (based in Pennsylvania), purchasing 38 Food Lion stores in Delaware, Maryland and Virginia.

The divested stores are expected to be converted by the buyers to their new banners and re-opened as supermarkets after any remodeling planned by the buyers.

A full list of the locations being sold by both companies as part of this process is attached as an annex to this press release.

On June 24, 2015, Ahold and Delhaize announced their intention to merge, creating an international retailer with a portfolio of strong, trusted local brands, more than 6,500 stores and over 375,000 associates. These brands serve more than 50 million customers every week in Europe and the United States.

FTC clearance is the remaining regulatory approval requirement for the Ahold and Delhaize Group merger. In March of this year, the Belgian Competition Authority (BCA) granted its conditional approval for the merger. Also in March, shareholders of both companies approved the merger with an overwhelming majority.

Please visit www.ahold.com, www.delhaizegroup.com or www.adcombined.com for more information.

Press release including store list
Read all about the intended merger

Cautionary notice
This press release includes forward-looking statements, which do not refer to historical facts but refer to expectations based on management’s current views and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or events to differ materially from those included in such statements. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements as to the divestment of stores and the conversion of the relevant stores to new banners, subject to FTC approval and the intention of Ahold and Delhaize Group to complete their merger before the end of July, subject to FTC clearance. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from future results expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Many of these risks and uncertainties relate to factors that are beyond Ahold’s ability to control or estimate precisely, such as discussed in Ahold’s public filings and other disclosures. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date they are made. Koninklijke Ahold N.V. does not assume any obligation to update any public information or forward-looking statements in this release to reflect subsequent events or circumstances, except as may be required by law. Outside the Netherlands, Koninklijke Ahold N.V., being its registered name, presents itself under the name of “Royal Ahold” or simply “Ahold.”

Contact details:

Royal Ahold
Provincialeweg 11
1506 MA Zaandam
The Netherlands
Phone: +31 88 659 9111

Source: Ahold

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Dan Guglielmone appointed Executive VP, CFO & Treasurer at Federal Realty Investment Trust

ROCKVILLE, Md., 2016-Jul-15 — /EPR Retail News/ — Federal Realty Investment Trust is pleased to announce the appointment of Dan Guglielmone to the position of Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer, effective August 15, 2016. In this role, Mr. Guglielmone will be a member of the Firm’s Executive and Investment Committees and will be responsible for all capital markets activity along with east coast acquisitions. In addition, he will be responsible for the oversight of the accounting, financial reporting and investor relations functions. Dan will be based at Federal’s Headquarters in Rockville, Md.

Mr. Guglielmone comes from real estate powerhouse Vornado Realty Trust where he has served since 2003 as its Senior Vice President, Acquisitions and Capital Markets. Prior to his time at Vornado, Dan spent 10 years in Investment Banking in the Real Estate and Lodging Group at Salomon Smith Barney/Citigroup in New York. Mr. Guglielmone holds a Bachelors in Applied Economics from Cornell University and a Masters in Management with a Concentration in Finance from the Kellogg School at Northwestern University. He is an active member of the Real Estate Board of New York (REBNY) as well as the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) and was a member of the Toys “R” Us Board from 2013 through 2015.

“I couldn’t be more pleased that we were able to attract such a well-respected 25 year commercial real estate veteran to our senior ranks” said Donald C. Wood, Federal Realty’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “Dan’s breadth of experience from both investment banking at a top tier firm and one of the largest and most respected commercial real estate firms in the country, will complement both our existing team and the growing needs and expectations of our fast expanding platform over the next decade and beyond.”

About Federal Realty

Federal Realty is a recognized leader in the ownership, operation and redevelopment of high-quality retail based properties located primarily in major coastal markets from Washington, D.C. to Bostonas well as San Francisco and Los Angeles. Founded in 1962, our mission is to deliver long term, sustainable growth through investing in densely populated, affluent communities where retail demand exceeds supply. Our expertise includes creating urban, mixed-use neighborhoods like Santana Row in San Jose, California, Pike & Rose in North Bethesda, Maryland and Assembly Rowin Somerville, Massachusetts. These unique and vibrant environments that combine shopping, dining, living and working provide a destination experience valued by their respective communities.Federal Realty’s 96 properties include over 2,800 tenants, in approximately 22 million square feet, and over 1,800 residential units.

Federal Realty has paid quarterly dividends to its shareholders continuously since its founding in 1962, and has increased its dividend rate for 48 consecutive years, the longest record in the REIT industry. Federal Realty shares are traded on the NYSE under the symbol FRT. For additional information about Federal Realty and its properties, visit www.FederalRealty.com.

Investor Inquiries:

Leah Andress
Investor Relations Associate
301/998-8265
landress@federalrealty.com

Media Inquiries:

Andrea Simpson
Vice President, Marketing
617/684-1511
asimpson@federalrealty.com

SOURCE: Federal Realty Investment Trust

 

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Federal Realty Investment Trust closed its public offering of $250 million aggregate principal amount of 3.625% senior unsecured notes

ROCKVILLE, Md., 2016-Jul-15 — /EPR Retail News/ — Federal Realty Investment Trust (NYSE:FRT) today announced the closing of its public offering of $250 million aggregate principal amount of 3.625% senior unsecured notes due August 1, 2046. The notes were offered at 97.756% of the principal amount with a yield to maturity of 3.750%. Interest on the notes will be payable on February 1 and August 1 of each year, beginning February 1, 2017.

Federal Realty intends to use the net proceeds from this offering to pay down the outstanding balance under its revolving credit facility and for general corporate purposes.

“While we did not anticipate accessing the long term unsecured debt markets until late in 2016 or early 2017, the recent unprecedented strength in the U.S. Treasury market and the attractiveness of our credit caused us to opportunistically issue this very long term capital, on highly compelling financial terms, at this time,” said Donald C. Wood, Federal Realty’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “Although this transaction will be modestly dilutive to our earnings for the balance of 2016 (as we had been using our line of credit for operational funding purposes), the 2016 and 2017 spending requirements of our growing real estate platform will now be appropriately funded for the long term.”

This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or other jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or other jurisdiction.

About Federal Realty
Federal Realty is a recognized leader in the ownership, operation and redevelopment of high-quality retail based properties located primarily in major coastal markets from Washington, D.C. to Bostonas well as San Francisco and Los Angeles. Founded in 1962, our mission is to deliver long term, sustainable growth through investing in densely populated, affluent communities where retail demand exceeds supply. Our expertise includes creating urban, mixed-use neighborhoods like Santana Row in San Jose, California, Pike & Rose in North Bethesda, Maryland and Assembly Rowin Somerville, Massachusetts. These unique and vibrant environments that combine shopping, dining, living and working provide a destination experience valued by their respective communities.Federal Realty’s 96 properties include over 2,800 tenants, in approximately 22 million square feet, and over 1,800 residential units.

Federal Realty has paid quarterly dividends to its shareholders continuously since its founding in 1962, and has increased its dividend rate for 48 consecutive years, the longest record in the REIT industry. Federal Realty shares are traded on the NYSE under the symbol FRT.

Safe Harbor Language
Certain matters discussed within this press release may be deemed to be forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. Although Federal Realty believes the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, it can give no assurance that its expectations will be attained. These factors include, but are not limited to, the risk factors described in our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on February 9, 2016, and include the following:

  • risks that our tenants will not pay rent, may vacate early or may file for bankruptcy or that we may be unable to renew leases or re-let space at favorable rents as leases expire;
  • risks that we may not be able to proceed with or obtain necessary approvals for any redevelopment or renovation project, and that completion of anticipated or ongoing property redevelopments or renovation projects that we do pursue may cost more, take more time to complete, or fail to perform as expected;
  • risks that we are investing a significant amount in ground-up development projects that may be dependent on third parties to deliver critical aspects of certain projects, requires spending a substantial amount upfront in infrastructure, and assumes receipt of public funding which has been committed but not entirely funded;
  • risks normally associated with the real estate industry, including risks that occupancy levels at our properties and the amount of rent that we receive from our properties may be lower than expected, that new acquisitions may fail to perform as expected, that competition for acquisitions could result in increased prices for acquisitions, that costs associated with the periodic maintenance and repair or renovation of space, insurance and other operations may increase, that environmental issues may develop at our properties and result in unanticipated costs, and, because real estate is illiquid, that we may not be able to sell properties when appropriate;
  • risks that our growth will be limited if we cannot obtain additional capital;
  • risks associated with general economic conditions, including local economic conditions in our geographic markets;
  • risks of financing, such as our ability to consummate additional financings or obtain replacement financing on terms which are acceptable to us, our ability to meet existing financial covenants and the limitations imposed on our operations by those covenants, and the possibility of increases in interest rates that would result in increased interest expense; and
  • risks related to our status as a real estate investment trust, commonly referred to as a REIT, for federal income tax purposes, such as the existence of complex tax regulations relating to our status as a REIT, the effect of future changes in REIT requirements as a result of new legislation, and the adverse consequences of the failure to qualify as a REIT.

Given these uncertainties, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements that we make, including those in this press release. Except as may be required by law, we make no promise to update any of the forward-looking statements as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. You should carefully review the risks and risk factors included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 9, 2016.

Investor Inquiries:

Leah Andress
Investor Relations Associate
301/998-8265
landress@federalrealty.com

Media Inquiries:

Andrea Simpson
Vice President, Marketing
617/684-1511
asimpson@federalrealty.com

SOURCE: Federal Realty Investment Trust

 

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2016 Canada Beef Grey Cup Tour will bring the top prize in Canadian football to 14 Co-op locations across Western Canada

Saskatoon, SK, 2016-Jul-15 — /EPR Retail News/ — Summer is officially in full swing, which means two things — barbecue and football.

This month, you can celebrate both during the 2016 Canada Beef Grey Cup Tour, which will bring the top prize in Canadian football to 14 Co-op locations across Western Canada.

At events in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba, football fans will get the chance to snap a selfie with the Grey Cup, while also enjoying great-tasting Canadian beef and other festive activities. Donations collected for photos will benefit local and provincial charities.

The tour kicks off during the third week of July, so keep an eye out for your chance to visit with the Grey Cup and support your community.

Alberta

Date Community Location and time
July 17 Strathmore Strathmore Centre
11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Calgary Creekside Centre
4:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
July 18 Edmonton Town Centre
11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Fort Saskatchewan 99th Avenue
4:30 p.m. – 7:30 PM
July 19 Vermilion 51st Avenue
11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Saskatchewan

July 19 North Battleford Territorial Drive
4:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
July 20 Prince Albert 15th Street East
11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Saskatoon Circle Park Mall
4:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
July 21 Saskatoon Westview
11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Regina South Albert
5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
July 22 Yorkton Argyle Street
11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Manitoba

July 22 Dauphin 3rd Avenue NE
5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
July 23 Portage la Prairie Saskatchewan Avenue West
11:00 a.m – 1:00 p.m.
Winnipeg Southdale
4:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Contact:

Box 1050, Saskatoon, SK, S7K 3M9
Suite 101 – 503 Wellman Crescent, Saskatoon, SK, S7T 0J1
PHONE: 306.244.3311
FAX: 306.242.6685
CAREER INQUIRIES: careers@fcl.ca

Source: Coop

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Wegmans Food Markets to host hiring event at its seven Southeastern Pennsylvania stores on July 19

ROCHESTER, N.Y., 2016-Jul-15 — /EPR Retail News/ — Wegmans Food Markets is hosting a hiring event at its seven Southeastern Pennsylvania stores on July 19 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. The company is looking to fill several hundred openings for part-time and full-time positions throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania, including opportunities in service, perishable, culinary and hospitality, and merchandising.

“At a time when our stores continue to lead the industry, we are looking for talented individuals to help us remain the best,” said Kevin Lang, a 28-year Wegmans veteran and manager of the King of Prussia store. “It’s an exciting time to be part of Wegmans with endless opportunity for employees to grow their careers right alongside the company’s continued growth. We have multiple paths for career success and give our employees the freedom to explore any career area throughout the company.”

Interested candidates are encouraged to complete an online application prior to the event by visiting the Southeastern Pennsylvania Hiring Event landing page on www.wegmans.com/careers. Recruiters will review applications and contact candidates to schedule interviews at specific times during the event. Paper applications and walk-in interviews will also be accepted.

The hiring event will take place on Tuesday, July 19 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the following Wegmans stores:

  • Collegeville – 600 Commerce Drive, Collegeville, PA
  • Concordville – 100 Applied Bank Blvd, Glen Mills, PA
  • Downingtown – 1056 East Lancaster Ave, Downingtown, PA
  • King of Prussia – 1 Village Drive, King of Prussia, PA
  • Malvern – 50 Foundry Way, Malvern, PA
  • Montgomeryville – 500 Montgomery Mall, North Wales, PA
  • Warrington – 1405 Main Street, Warrington, PA

Candidates interested in exploring positions at multiple stores should visit just one location and mention which stores they are interested in working at during the interview process.

Well-known for its incredible customer service, Wegmans is also widely recognized as an exceptional employer. For 18 consecutive years it has ranked high on FORTUNE magazine’s list of “The 100 Best Companies to Work For,” placing fourth in 2016. Wegmans offers an array of benefits to employees, including access to flexible scheduling, competitive pay and benefits, career development and growth, and tuition assistance through the company’s employee scholarship program.

Founded in 1984, the Wegmans Employee Scholarship Program awards tuition assistance to employees who meet specific academic, employment and work-performance criteria. Part-time workers can receive up to $1,500 per year and full-time workers up to $2,200 per year for four years, with no restrictions on the course of study or post-college career path.

Wegmans Food Markets, Inc. is an 89-store supermarket chain with stores in New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Virginia, Maryland, and Massachusetts. The family-owned company, recognized as an industry leader and innovator, is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2016. Wegmans has been named one of the ‘100 Best Companies to Work For’ by FORTUNE magazine for 19 consecutive years, ranking #4 in 2016.

Contact Information:
Tracy Van Auker
Wegmans media relations coordinator
tracy.vanauker@wegmans.com
585-429-3826

Source: Wegmans Food Market

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Second 365 by Whole Foods Market opens on July 14 in Lake Oswego, Oregon

Lake Oswego, OR, 2016-Jul-15 — /EPR Retail News/ — The second 365 by Whole Foods Market location opens on Thursday, July 14, at 9 a.m. in Lake Oswego, Oregon, at 11 S. State St. in Oswego Village.

Open daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., the 36,000-square-foot store offers a thoughtful selection of grab-and-go prepared foods, grocery items, unique venues and retail innovations that streamline the shopping experience for customers who are seeking convenience and value on high quality products without artificial colors, sweeteners or preservatives.

“From the food offerings to the design, we’ve created a shopping experience at this store that delivers on the quality standards you’ve come to expect from Whole Foods Market in a fun new format that’s easy to navigate and focused on value in every department,” said Jeff Turnas, president, 365 by Whole Foods Market. “Whether you’re planning a quick in-and-out shop for a few items, stocking up for the week, catching up with a friend over a Paleo-friendly Seoul Bowl, you’ll find a blend of innovation and convenience here that’s unmatched.”

Grab-and-Go
In the large grab-and-go section, shoppers can find a range of healthy, prepared food options, priced by the container at small, medium and large. Shoppers can order hot dogs, bowls made with quinoa, rice and veggies as well as pizza from self-serve kiosks. Prepared foods items meet the same quality standards as all products sold in the store. Menu highlights:

  • Eclectic hot dogs like the vegan “Carrot Dog” made with a braised carrot, tamarind chutney slaw, cilantro and avocado
  • Pizza offerings like the vegan veggie made with Kite Hill ricotta and chicken bulgogi with sauce made from Bianco DiNapoli tomatoes
  • Hot and cold bars with global cuisines and rotating items like bibimbap and kimchee fried rice, chicken verde enchiladas and schichimi togorashi brussel sprouts
  • Soups include West African peanut, Tonkatsu chicken and vegatable soup, chicken Hlelem, and vegan coconut vegetable
  • Everyday items like brown rice, beans, tortillas and seasonal salads like cauliflower and radicchio

Veg
The store offers shoppers an expansive, 5,000-square-foot produce department, including “Veg Valley,” an enclosed area for chilled produce options.

  • A great selection of both organic and conventionally grown fruits and vegetables
  • An entire wall of bagged greens, salads and pre-prepped produce to help make eating more fruits and veggies easier
  • Many items sold by the each; customers can weigh and sticker their own items for convenience
  • Value priced floral selections at two price points: $5 and $10

Meat & Sea
Offers a wide variety of ready-to-cook items including chicken, meat, pork, seafood and marinated selections of high-quality meats from animals raised without antibiotics and added hormones. All items are packaged for convenience. Includes:

  • Sustainably sourced fresh fillets, value priced, vacuum-packed fish and shellfish, and steaks and marinated options
  • Selection of 100 percent grass-fed organic beef
  • 365 by Whole Foods Market has full knowledge and traceability of all seafood and strives to source local options that meet Whole Foods Market’s strict quality standards
  • All beef, chicken and pork are step-rated, using Global Animal Partnership’s 5-Step® Animal Welfare rating system, and adhere to Whole Foods Market’s stringent quality standards

Total Pantry (grocery, bakery, supplements and body care)
This department offers shoppers great value on high quality everyday pantry staples without any artificial colors, flavors, preservatives or hydrogenated oils.

  • Aisles are full of hundreds of favorite 365 Everyday Value™ products – from salty snacks to baking supplies, supplements and body care.
  • All bakery items are in line with Whole Foods Market quality standards, and made with cage-free eggs.

Beverage
Features an assortment of kombucha and cold pressed juices from Suja, Evolution Fresh, Temple Turmeric and REBBL, plus a curated collection of more than 400 wines, including eco-friendly and biodynamic options, a varied selection of special-occasion wines and fun beverages like sake and sangria. Highlights:

  • 365 by Whole Foods Market partnered with Banquet by Delectable, a smartphone app that scans wine labels and provides instant descriptions and ratings for customers seeking wine selections.
  • The wide selection of wine is value-oriented; the majority of bottles are priced at or below $20. Shoppers will also find a handful of popular higher-end champagne offerings like Veuve Clicquot, which were thoughtfully selected by buyers.
  • A large selection of chilled beer with an assortment of local craft beers, domestic favorites and unique imports.

Chilled and Frozen
An assortment of yogurt, eggs, milk, including non-dairy alternative milks and yogurts, like refrigerated rice soy, almond, coconut and flax; also many shelf-stable options: almond, soy, rice, quinoa and hemp.

  • A frozen section of goodies, from entrees to ice cream, pizzas and more
  • All eggs sold at 365 by Whole Foods Market are cage-free

‘Friends of 365’
The “Friends of 365” program allows innovative businesses and entrepreneurs that align with the mission and quality standards of Whole Foods Market to establish independent retail spaces inside the store. The new Lake Oswego store will feature two Oregon-based “Friends of 365” partners, with specially curated menus that will further enhance the store experience for shoppers.

  • Next Level Burger – A plant-based take on the classic American burger joint. Next Level Burger will be serving up plant-based burgers, fries, shakes, hot dogs and organic salads alongside craft soda, local beer and kombucha.
  • Canteen – A fresh and healthy café and juice bar will feature design elements from its flagship store in Portland, and will serve an innovative menu of organic juices and smoothies, as well as a few other select items

teaBOT
One of shoppers’ favorite stops in the store is the customizable tea station, teaBOT. It offers an efficient, self-serve kiosk, allowing customers to create personalized tea blends by choosing from a selection of 18 teas and herbal ingredients.

Store Design
The Lake Oswego store and subsequent locations are designed with convenience and efficiency in mind to create an easy flow and a streamlined customer experience.

  • Each 365 by Whole Foods Market store will feature a signature piece of art that reflects the community in which it opens. “Kale Oswego” is a colorful and textured piece of art by Sebastien Leon Agneessens.
  • There are limited printed signs, all price tags are digital and customers should be able to see the entire store from where they stand when they walk in
  • Additional amenities include home delivery via Instacart, free Wi-Fi available in seating areas throughout the store, a bike lock-up section and accessible parking

My 365 Rewards
Shoppers can take advantage of My 365 Rewards, a 100 percent digital loyalty program, offering personalized product recommendations, tailored content and special deals based on individual preferences.

  • “Gimme 10 Deals” provides 10 percent off products featured on the end caps and elsewhere throughout the store.
  • Digital punch cards offer “buy 10 and get one free” deals on favorite items such as rotisserie chicken, Driscoll’s berries, organicgirl greens, and Evolution Fresh juices.
  • Shoppers can sign up online and use their digital membership card or phone number at checkout to access their benefits.

Opening Day Deals & Happenings

On opening day (Thursday, July 14), the first 365 shoppers will receive a free reusable shopping bag. The first 100 shoppers will receive gift cards in varying amounts – from $5 to $365.

Grand opening deals include:

  • Kale – $1 for 2 bunches
  • Organic Blueberries – $5 for 2 pints
  • Organic Rainbow Carrots – $1 for a 2 lb. bag
  • Applegate Breakfast Sausage Links – $5 for 2 packages
  • 80 percent Lean Ground Beef – $3 for 1 lb. package

For details on what’s inside the store, as well as featured deals and everyday values in each aisle, click here, follow us on Facebook or @365bywholefoods on Instagram and Twitter.

Store Contact Information:

Ben Kloch
Store Team Leader
(ben.kloch@wholefoods.com)

365 by Whole Foods Market
11 S. State Street
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
Phone: (503) 782-4672

Press contact:

Ann Marie Ricard
annmarie.ricard@curatorpr.com

Susan Livingston
susan.livingston@wholefoods.com
425.457.0090 (mobile)

###

Second 365 by Whole Foods Market opens on July 14 in Lake Oswego, Oregon
Second 365 by Whole Foods Market opens on July 14 in Lake Oswego, Oregon

Source: Whole Foods Market

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Whole Foods Market Williamsburg to open on Tuesday, July 26, 2016

BROOKLYN, N.Y., 2016-Jul-15 — /EPR Retail News/ — Whole Foods Market Williamsburg (238 Bedford Ave.), the retailer’s second Brooklyn location, opening on Tuesday, July 26, 2016 is excited to announce eight unique dining options for shoppers. The upcoming Williamsburg store will be home to Brooklyn’s newest food hall featuring some of New York City’s best, most beloved and up-and-coming favorites to enhance shopper’s in-store and takeout dining experiences.

“In bringing Whole Foods Market to Williamsburg, we understand that local residents have high standards when it comes to great food, so we were excited to get really creative and ambitious in building out our in-store food hall,” said Daniel Lachs, culinary coordinator for Whole Foods Market’s Northeast region. “We worked very closely with each of the vendors to customize their menu and create special partnerships to provide our shoppers with a unique dining experience they simply can’t get anywhere else.”

  • N4: Paying homage to Williamsburg’s storied roots, N4 is a restaurant and tap room offering an all-natural take on a traditional Jewish delicatessen. As an exclusive to Whole Foods Market Williamsburg, N4 has collaborated with Red Hook Winery for an exclusive array of wines on draft. Additionally, the venue’s entire craft cocktail list features only New York state local liquors.
  • No. 7:  The critically-acclaimed No. 7 restaurant group will be introducing its first permanent outpost at a Whole Foods Market store, expanding on their current pop-up location at Whole Foods Market Third & 3rd in Gowanus, Brooklyn.
  • OddFellows Ice Cream Co.: A neighborhood favorite quickly ascending to the top of the ice cream ranks, OddFellows will be offering shoppers a rotating menu of its fresh, small batch and seasonal flavors served from its signature ice cream cart. Signature flavors include Caramel Chocolate Crisp, Oatmeal Cookie Dough, Banana Puddin’, Burnt Marshmallow, Dark Chocolate Chunk, Coconut Kaffir Lime, and more.
  • East Coast Poke: Bringing Hawaii’s finest cuisine to Whole Foods Market Williamsburg, this NYC-based restaurant will serve up fresh poke bowls showcasing sustainably sourced seafood.
  • Luke’s Lobster: A cozy, Maine-bred seafood shack committed to serving only sustainable and traceable seafood. The regional favorite will be parking their Luke’s Tail Cart for the first time at a retail location to sell grilled lobster tails paired with house-made seasonal dipping sauces.
  • Layered: A healthy indulgence option for shoppers made with Anita’s Coconut Yogurt featuring vegan and paleo parfait offerings with a variety of toppings perfect for breakfast or a snack.
  • Pizza: A Whole Foods Market store staple, Pizza will be offering an array of handmade pizzas made with dough from New York’s Terranova Bakery and local ingredients including basil from Gotham Greens, and more! Pizza will also be launching freshly baked Puccia sandwiches.
  • Kikka Sushi: Featured in more than 100 Whole Foods Market locations around the country, Kikka is known for fresh and sustainable sushi perfect for dining in or on-the-go shoppers.

In addition to the Food Hall offerings, Whole Foods Market Williamsburg will offer an expansive prepared foods department including salad bars, a hot food bar, a variety of in-house chef made seasonal options and more! For additional information and future announcements, please visit the store’s social media channels:

Facebook – facebook.com/wholefoodsbrooklyn
Twitter
Instagram @wfmbrooklyn

Contact:

Michael Sinatra
michael.sinatra@wholefoods.com
551.574.8031 (cell)

Jessica Ventura
jv@sharpthink.com
212.829.0002 ext.104

Source: Whole Foods Market

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SUPERVALU to acquire 22 Food Lion grocery stores that are being sold in connection with the merger between Ahold and Delhaize

MINNEAPOLIS, 2016-Jul-15 — /EPR Retail News/ — SUPERVALU INC. (NYSE:SVU) today announced it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire 22 Food Lion grocery stores that are being sold in connection with the merger between Ahold and Delhaize. The 22 Food Lion stores are located in northern West Virginia, western Maryland, south central Pennsylvania and northwestern Virginia. The acquired stores will be converted to SUPERVALU’s Shop ‘N Save format and at least initially be operated by SUPERVALU. SUPERVALU is in discussions with certain of its wholesale customers and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) on ways for its wholesale customers to have an interest in these stores going forward.

SUPERVALU supplies and supports nearly 100 independently-operated Shop ‘N Save stores located primarily in western Pennsylvania and West Virginia. These independently-operated stores are a key component of SUPERVALU’s wholesale business and the network of stores and owners is among the strongest in SUPERVALU’s wholesale business. The 22 acquired stores are expected to benefit from both the scale of the format and similar merchandising and marketing strategies. These stores are not part of SUPERVALU’s corporately-owned Shop ‘n Save retail banner comprised of 44 stores in the St. Louis, Missouri area.

“I’m pleased that SUPERVALU will acquire these stores, which should provide excellent opportunities for our wholesale customers, who were unable to buy them outright,” said SUPERVALU President and CEO Mark Gross. “The stores will operate under our Shop ‘N Save format, which we believe is a great format for us and our wholesale customers. This acquisition is another example of the work we’re doing to grow our business and to deliver creative solutions for our wholesale customers.”

The stores being acquired are conventional supermarkets that are approximately 35,000 square feet in size. As Shop ‘N Save stores, the plan will be to deliver a full-variety meat department, full-service delis and bakeries and an expanded produce department. Additionally, these 22 stores also will receive comprehensive marketing, advertising, and promotional support, including implementation of the Shop ‘N Save loyalty card program, and interactive website and mobile app. The 22 stores currently employ more than 1,200 full and part-time associates and, as part of the acquisition, SUPERVALU anticipates offering employment to substantially all interested employees.

The acquisition of the 22 stores is subject to customary closing conditions, including approval by the FTC, and is expected to be completed in a staggered closing process over the next 105 days.

A complete list of stores and locations follows below.

Food Lion Stores Being Acquired by SUPERVALU

Store Address City ST Zip
761 East Wilson Boulevard Hagerstown MD 21740
22401 Jefferson Boulevard Smithburg MD 21783
18717 North Pointe Drive Hagerstown MD 21742
17718 Virginia Avenue Hagerstown MD 21740
18360 College Road Hagerstown MD 21740
4170 Philadelphia Avenue Chambersburg PA 17202
875 Lincoln Way West Chambersburg PA 17202
500 North Antrim Way Greencastle PA 17225
11105 Buchanan Trail Waynesboro PA 17268
707 Fort Collier Road Winchester VA 22601
2600 Valley Avenue Winchester VA 22601
249 Sunnyside Plaza Circle Winchester VA 22603
609 K East Main Street Purcellville VA 20132
260 Remount Road Front Royal VA 22630
409 North McNeil Road Berryville VA 22611
190 Delco Plaza Winchester VA 22602
380 Fairfax Pike Stephens City VA 22655
159 Grocery Avenue Winchester VA 22602
147 Roaring Lion Drive Hedgesville WV 25427
1140 Winchester Avenue Martinsburg WV 25401
50 Coast Guard Drive Kearneysville WV 25430
1317 Old Courthouse Square Martinsburg WV 25401

About SUPERVALU INC.
SUPERVALU INC. is one of the largest grocery wholesalers and retailers in the U.S. with annual sales of approximately $18 billion. SUPERVALU serves customers across the United States through a network of 3,588 stores composed of 1,796 independent stores serviced primarily by the Company’s food distribution business; 1,360 Save-A-Lot stores, of which 897 are operated by licensee owners; and 200 traditional retail grocery stores (store counts as of February 27, 2016). Headquartered in Minnesota, SUPERVALU has approximately 40,000 employees.

For more information about SUPERVALU visit www.supervalu.com.

CAUTIONARY STATEMENTS RELEVANT TO FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION FOR THE PURPOSE OF “SAFE HARBOR” PROVISIONS OF THE PRIVATE SECURITIES LITIGATION REFORM ACT OF 1995.

Except for the historical and factual information contained herein, the matters set forth in this news release, particularly those pertaining to SUPERVALU’s expectations, guidance, or future operating results, and other statements identified by words such as “estimates,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “projects,” “plans,” “intends,” “will” and similar expressions are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially, including uncertainties as to the timing of the acquisition and satisfaction of the closing conditions, including approval by the FTC, SUPERVALU’s ability to integrate the Food Lion stores into the Shop ‘N Save format and ability to reach agreement on ways for its wholesale customers to have an interest in these new stores, and the resulting business impacts of these new stores. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this news release. Unless legally required, SUPERVALU undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Contact:

For Investors:
Steve Bloomquist
952-828-4144
Steve.j.bloomquist@supervalu.com

For Media:
Jeff Swanson
952-903-1645
Jeffrey.s.swanson@supervalu.com

Source: SUPERVALU INC.

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Availability of industrial space in U.S. declined for 25th consecutive quarter as e-commerce continued to fuel warehouse demand – CBRE

Los Angeles, 2016-Jul-15 — /EPR Retail News/ — Availability of industrial space in the U.S. declined for the 25th consecutive quarter, the longest such streak on record, as e-commerce continued to fuel warehouse demand, according to CBRE Group, Inc.

Industrial availability declined to 8.8 percent in the second quarter, down 20 basis points (bps) from the first quarter, to its lowest level since the second quarter of 2001. Of 57 major U.S. markets tracked by CBRE, 37 registered declines in their availability rate in the second quarter, marking a slight gain from the 35 markets did so in the first.

Jeffrey Havsy, CBRE’s Chief Economist for the Americas, said robust demand from e-commerce users building out their North American distribution networks will continue to push increases in lease rates this year and spur additional construction. CBRE expects developers to complete construction of roughly the same amount of industrial space in the 57 markets this year as they did last year, when they delivered 150.5 million square feet. That tally, while robust, is nonetheless well short of the 10-year high of 213.5 million delivered in 2006. However, the planned pipeline is continuing to grow.

“While we’ve had some shocks to the global economy, the U.S. economy still is moving along at a slow and steady space, and that will sustain industrial demand,” Mr. Havsy said. “Retail sales have been above expectations, posting pretty strong gains in April and May. That will help both the retail and industrial sectors.”

E-commerce has pushed industrial availability to unusual lows as demand grows for facilities to handle uses such as same-day delivery fulfillment and reverse logistics. In addition, the U.S. dollar’s strength relative to other currencies should continue to increase U.S. imports, which in turn drive additional demand for industrial space.

Thirteen of the 57 markets tracked by CBRE posted increases in their availability of space, due mostly to delivery of newly constructed buildings not yet leased. Those that gained availability in comparison to a year earlier include Houston, Cincinnati, Denver, Minneapolis, California’s Inland Empire, South Central Pennsylvania, Cleveland and Honolulu.

Several registered significant declines in their availability rates from a year earlier, including West Palm Beach (down 290 bps), Newark (down 270 bps), Memphis (down 270 bps), Tampa (down 250 bps), Jacksonville (down 250 bps) and Detroit (down 250 bps).

Looking ahead, Mr. Havsy said, “We think demand will slow a little and supply will continue to ramp up. Vacancy will bottom out this year and then start to slowly rise. But industrial will remain one of the best performing asset classes in commercial real estate for a long time.”

The full report is available upon request.

About CBRE Group, Inc.
CBRE Group, Inc. (NYSE:CBG), a Fortune 500 and S&P 500 company headquartered in Los Angeles, is the world’s largest commercial real estate services and investment firm (in terms of 2015 revenue). The Company has more than 70,000 employees (excluding affiliates), and serves real estate owners, investors and occupiers through more than 400 offices (excluding affiliates) worldwide. CBRE offers strategic advice and execution for property sales and leasing; corporate services; property, facilities and project management; mortgage banking; appraisal and valuation; development services; investment management; and research and consulting. Please visit our website at www.cbre.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Robert McGrath
Senior Director, Global Media Relations
+1 212 9848267

Source: CBRE

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Nut free celebration cakes supplier The Just Love Food Company lands contract with the Co-op

MANCHESTER, England, 2016-Jul-15 — /EPR Retail News/ — A contract win with the Co-op is the icing on the cake for a Gwent-based cake maker supplying nut free celebration cakes.

Located in Blackwood, near Newport, The Just Love Food Company, is to supply over 80 Co-op food stores with tray bakes and celebration cakes after taking a “slice” of the Co-op contracts being offered as the community retailer works continues to introduce increasing ranges of locally sourced Welsh products in its food stores.

The Just Love Food Company first started selling cakes in 2010 after its founders, Mike and Karen Woods, discovered that two of their three children had nut allergies.

The contract win with the Co-op has contributed to the cake maker’s continued growth which has seen it increase its workforce by more than 10 percent in recent months to 55 employees.

Mike Woods, said: “When it came to birthdays and celebrations we always struggled as a family to find cakes on the market for children with nut allergies, and so we set up The Just Love Food Company to overcome this.

“Our work with the Co-op has opened up new and important markets, and initial sales have been far higher than forecast. We are working closely with the Co-op to satisfy the increasing demand that is being seen for locally produced, high quality produce. It’s a collaborative approach and we are pleased to see that our success together will deliver thousands of portions of our cakes into Welsh communities”

Danika Woods, 19, whose nut allergy – along with Rourke, now 16 – provided the inspiration behind the brand, now works for The Just Love Food Company, and said: “Having a nut allergy provides a very personal perspective which is baked into the cakes we design and make. It is easy for me to put myself into the shoes of consumers and it is why The Just Love Food Company goes to the lengths that it does to offer our nut free promise and reassurances for families.”

Matthew Speight, Managing Director for The Co-op in Wales, said: “The Co-op is committed to offering more locally sourced Welsh produce. The Just Love Food Company is a great example of endeavor and inspiration overcoming a challenging situation – we are delighted that by working closely together we can respond to changing consumer tastes and demand by offering these great locally produced Welsh products conveniently.”

Welsh businesses to win recent contracts with the Co-op include Franks Ice Cream, Penderyn Whiskey, condiment maker Krunchie Foods, Village Dairy and Edwards of Conwy.

Karen Woods of the Just Love Food Company will answer questions about their products or share her experiences of dealing with children with nut allergies with members of the community, people who would like to get in touch can do so by visiting www.justlovefoodcompany.com

Further Information:

Andrew Torr
The Co-op Press Office
Tel: 07702 505 551
Email: Andrew.torr@co-operative.coop

Source: Coop

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Co-op sells 298 smaller stores to McColl’s Retail Group plc (McColl’s) for £117m

MANCHESTER, England, 2016-Jul-15 — /EPR Retail News/ — The Co-op Group has today agreed the sale of 298 of its smaller Food stores as part of its strategy of refocusing its store estate on a convenience, own-brand led shopping experience.

The sale of the stores, which are 1,700 sq ft on average to McColl’s Retail Group plc (McColl’s) for £117m, is subject to approval from the CMA and McColl’s shareholders. All stores will continue to trade immediately after handover (expected from November 2016) and all colleagues will TUPE transfer to McColl’s.

Co-op Food has a clearly defined food strategy, focused on delivering a compelling and convenient shopping experience to millions of customers and members every day. The strategy, which saw the Co-op deliver like-for-like sales growth in its convenience estate of 4% in the year to April, will be further strengthened from this autumn when the Co-op’s new member offer goes live, rewarding Co-op members for the own-brand trade.

The sale proceeds will be re-invested to further deliver the Co-op’s strategy, which over the past 12 months has seen the Co-op become the most frequently visited food retailer in the UK. In the last two years The Co-op has opened close to 200 new stores and in 2016 is actively pursuing 100 new store acquisitions.

Steve Murrells, CEO of Co-op Food, said:
“The Co-op Food business continues to move forward with a clear momentum and purpose to deliver a compelling and convenient shopping experience for our millions of customers and members. “Today’s announcement is completely in line with our strategy, as these stores did not allow us to provide a sufficiently compelling own-brand offer for our members going forwards. The proceeds will be re-invested to drive sustainable growth for our members and I’m delighted that all 3,808 colleagues will transfer to McColl’s on the same terms and conditions.”

List of Co-op stores to be sold to McColl’s Retail Group plc (PDF)

Note to editors

About The Co-op Group:
The Co-op Group, one of the world’s largest consumer co-operatives, with interests across food, funerals, insurance, electrical and legal services, has a clear purpose of championing a better way of doing business for you and your communities. Owned by millions of UK consumers, The Co-operative Group operates a total of 3,750 outlets, with more than 70,000 colleagues and an annual turnover of approximately £10 billion.

New Membership benefits
A percentage (currently 5%) of the amount a member spends on Co-op own brand products and services will be credited to the member’s account and can be used as a discount against products and/or services when they trade with us in the future; and a percentage (currently 1%) of the amount a member spends on Co-op own brand products and services will be awarded to the member’s account for them to donate to a good cause of their choosing from a selection being supported by Co-op.

*Colleagues within a Co-op community will initially select three local charities for members to support with their 1% community benefit for a period of six months. After this Co-op members will be able to put forward charities and causes from their communities which they believe will benefit the local community. This will result in thousands of local causes benefitting.

Media Enquiries:

The Co-operative Group:
Russ Brady
07880 784442

Craig Brownsell
07843 648467

Tulchan Communications:
Susanna Voyle
07980 894 557

Jonathan Sibun
07779 999 683

Source: Coop

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Erklärung von REWE Group zur Rechtmäßigkeit der Ministererlaubnis

Koln, Deutschland, 2016-Jul-15 — /EPR Retail News/ — Die Zweifel an der Rechtmäßigkeit der Ministererlaubnis sind so schwerwiegend, dass das Gericht verfügt hat, dass keine unumkehrbaren Fakten bei der Übernahme von KaisersTengelmann geschaffen werden können. Das begrüßen wir sehr. Edeka und KaisersTengelmann haben bei diesem Fusionsvorhaben von Anfang an auf einen Weg der Konfrontation mit Wettbewerbshütern und Gewerkschaften gesetzt und eine Ministererlaubnis erzwingen wollen. Dass diese in Form und Inhalt zweifelhafte Ministererlaubnis nun nicht vollzogen werden kann, ist eine logische Folge dieser Brachialstrategie. Angesichts der vom OLG Düsseldorf angeführten Beschlussgründe, erwarten wir, dass auch die endgültige Entscheidung in der Hauptsache keine andere sein wird, weil sich die Fakten nicht mehr ändern.“

Für Rückfragen:
REWE Group-Unternehmenskommunikation
Tel: +49 221 149 1050
Fax: +49 221 138898
Mail: presse@rewe-group.com

Source: Rewe Group

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Erklärung von REWE Group Konzernsprecher Martin Brüning zur PK von Bundesminister Gabriel

Köln, Deutschland, 2016-Jul-15 — /EPR Retail News/ — Zur Behauptung von Bundesminister Gabriel, REWE sei durch Akteneinsicht über die Gespräche des Bundesministers mit dem Vorstandsvorsitzenden der EDEKA und dem Eigentümer von KaisersTengelmann informiert worden, stellt REWE Group Konzernsprecher Martin Brüning klar:

Die Aussage von Bundesminister Gabriel, REWE sei durch Akteneinsicht über die Gespräche des Bundesministers mit dem Vorstandsvorsitzenden der EDEKA und dem Eigentümer von KaisersTengelmann informiert worden, ist falsch. Durch einen Briefwechsel zwischen den die REWE Group vertretenden Anwälten und dem BMWi ist dokumentiert, dass

  • erstens die REWE Group am 21. Januar 2016 um vollständige Akteneinsicht gebeten hat, weil uns aufgefallen war, dass es keine Vermerke etc. zum Treffen des EDEKA Vorstandsvorsitzenden mit Bundesminister Gabriel am 1. Dezember 2015 in den Amtsakten gibt; schon zu diesem Zeitpunkt haben wir in Zweifel gezogen, dass es ohne diese Akteneinsicht ein faires und unbefangenes Verfahren gebe;
  • zweitens das BMWi mit Schreiben vom 22. Januar 2016 mitteilte, dass ein Vermerk zum Gespräch von Herrn Bundesminister Gabriel mit Herrn Mosa am 1. Dezember 2015 sowie weitere Korrespondenz mit den Anmeldern über die Nebenbestimmungen sowie Korrespondenz zu dieser Thematik nicht vorliegen und die von uns angeforderten Vermerke und Stellungnahmen, welche die Erstellung, Formulierung und Prüfung der vorgesehenen Bedingungen im Ministererlaubnisverfahren betreffen, der Entscheidungsvorbereitung dienen und während des laufenden Verfahrens der Akteneinsicht entzogen sind.
  • Schließlich ist noch wichtig klarzustellen, dass der Vorwurf des OLG gegen den Bundesminister nicht die Tatsache ist, dass er überhaupt Gespräche mit den Herren Mosa und Haub geführt hat, sondern dass diese nicht hinreichend aktenkundig und den übrigen Verfahrensbeteiligten zur Kenntnis gebracht wurden.

Ferner ist zu den Ausführungen von Bundesminister Gabriel aus Sicht der REWE Group festzuhalten:

Das Angebot der REWE zur Übernahme von Kaisers Tengelmann lag schon seit Sommer 2014 vor – also mehr als ein Jahr vor der Anhörung im BMWi. Dies hat REWE dem BMWi bereits im Sommer 2015 mitgeteilt. Auch durch die wiederholten und öffentlich manifestierten Aussagen der REWE Group war zu einem frühen Zeitpunkt klar, dass das REWE Angebot – insbesondere bei den für den Minister so wichtigen Elementen wie dem Erhalten der 16.000 Arbeitsplätze, der Beibehaltung von Mitbestimmung und Tarifbindung und dem Verzicht auf Privatisierungen der Märkte – weit über das Angebot von EDEKA hinausging. Das neuerliche formulierte verbindliche Angebot der REWE Group vom 30.11.2015 wurde auf ausdrücklichen Wunsch des BMWi erstellt und übersandt.  Klar ist auch: die von Bundesminister Gabriel formulierten Auflagen orientieren sich eindeutig am verbindlichen Angebot der REWE.

Auch die Wiederholung der Behauptung des BMWi, das Angebot der REWE würde auf dieselben kartellrechtlichen Bedenken stoßen und sei mithin keine Alternative, macht sie nicht richtiger. Das Bundeskartellamt hat nie eine Prüfung der Übernahme durch REWE vorgenommen. Das OLG hat in seinem Beschluss zudem zutreffend festgestellt, dass die Erforderlichkeit einer Ministererlaubnis nicht gegeben ist, wenn – wie hier mit REWE – ein geeigneter alternativer Erwerber zur Verfügung steht, „bei dem alleine schon angesichts seiner signifikant geringeren Marktbedeutung aller Voraussicht nach weniger gravierende Wettbewerbsnachteile zu erwarten sind“. Gleiches hat die Monopolkommission entgegen der Aussage des Bundesministers im August 2015 bereits festgestellt. Es bleibt also fraglich, auf welche Fakten das BMWi seine Einschätzung stützt.

Für Rückfragen:
REWE Group-Unternehmenskommunikation
Tel: +49 221 149 1050
Fax: +49 221 138898
Mail: presse@rewe-group.com

Source: Rewe Group

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Frozen Shrimp Scampi products recalled by Michael Angelo’s Gourmet Foods, Inc.

WASHINGTON, 2016-Jul-15 — /EPR Retail News/ — Michael Angelo’s Gourmet Foods, Inc., an Austin, Texas establishment, is recalling approximately 4,225 pounds of frozen shrimp scampi products due to misbranding and undeclared allergens, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The products may be mislabeled and contain chicken, as well as egg and soy, known allergens, which are not declared on the product label.

The following products are subject to recall: [View Label (PDF Only)]

  • 26-oz. boxes, containing plastic trays, labeled, “Michael Angelo’s Uncompromisingly Italian-Style Shrimp Scampi with Linguini Pasta in a Fresh Heirloom Garlic-Butter Sauce” with a packaging date of May 7, 2016, “BEST IF USED BY” date of May 7, 2017 and UPC code 0 37363 98377 0.

Due to a packaging error, products are labeled as, “Michael Angelo’s Uncompromisingly Italian-Style Shrimp Scampi with Linguini Pasta in a Fresh Heirloom Garlic-Butter Sauce;” however, the packages may contain a chicken piccata product, which contains chicken, egg and soy, ingredients not declared on the label. The products subject to recall do not bear the USDA mark of inspection, as shrimp products are regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These items were shipped to distributors in the Southeastern U.S.

The problem was discovered after the firm received a customer complaint.

There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products. Anyone concerned about an injury, illness or allergic reaction should contact a healthcare provider.

Consumers who have purchased these products are urged not to consume them. These products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase.

FSIS routinely conducts recall effectiveness checks to verify recalling firms notify their customers of the recall and that steps are taken to make certain that the product is no longer available to consumers. When available, the retail distribution list(s) will be posted on the FSIS website at www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls.

Consumers with questions about the recall can contact the firm’s consumer hotline, at 1 (877) 482-5426. Media with questions about the recall can contact Richard Price, Vice President of Operations, Michael Angelo’s Gourmet Foods, Inc., at (512) 218-3514.

Consumers with food safety questions can “Ask Karen,” the FSIS virtual representative available 24 hours a day at AskKaren.gov or via smartphone at m.askkaren.gov. The toll-free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline 1-888-MPHotline (1-888-674-6854) is available in English and Spanish and can be reached from l0 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Eastern Time) Monday through Friday. Recorded food safety messages are available 24 hours a day. The online Electronic Consumer Complaint Monitoring System can be accessed 24 hours a day at: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/reportproblem.

USDA Recall Classifications
Class I This is a health hazard situation where there is a reasonable probability that the use of the product will cause serious, adverse health consequences or death.
Class II This is a health hazard situation where there is a remote probability of adverse health consequences from the use of the product.
Class III This is a situation where the use of the product will not cause adverse health consequences.

Contact: 
Congressional and Public Affairs
Sarah R. Lichtman
(202) 720-9113
Press@fsis.usda.gov

Source: USDA

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Travel retail and restaurateur Paradies Lagardère adds authentic gelato purveyor Pino Gelato at the Long Beach Airport (LGB)

ATLANTA , 2016-Jul-15 — /EPR Retail News/ — Paradies Lagardère, the travel retail and restaurateur leader in North America, has added authentic gelato purveyor Pino Gelato at the Long Beach Airport (LGB). Pino Gelato, named the Top-Rated Dessert and Ice Cream Shop by TripAdvisor in 2015, is a welcome addition to the dining options at LGB. The airport has earned awards for its dining offerings, which are all managed by Paradies Lagardère, and includes Long Beach Marchè and local favorites 4th Street Vine and Sweet Jill’s Bakery.

Quote:
“We’re excited to partner with Pino Gelato to open a new location in Long Beach Airport. Paradies Lagardère is proud of the delicious, high-quality dining options offered at the Long Beach Airport, and the popular Pino Gelato will fit in well. We strive to ensure that travelers have a number of food options available to them, including options that offer a quick treat or snack,” said Bill Casey, senior vice president, Food and Beverage, Paradies Lagardère.

Additional details:
Creating delicious gelato for more than 10 years, Pino Gelato has a nationwide presence with nine airport locations. From fresh whole fruits to premium chocolate and real espresso, each ingredient is chosen for its freshness and quality. Pino Gelato’s authentic Italian gelato is an artistic expression of flavor and quality served with a smile.

High-end restaurants, quick-serve restaurants, bars and coffee shops are all a part of Paradies Lagardère’s Food and Beverage concepts. Brands have been tailored to entice travelers with the same familiar quality, variety, taste, and atmosphere as their favorite “at home” dining spots, while maintaining the highest levels of quality and service.

Paradies Lagardère was recently awarded three prestigious awards for excellence in Food and Beverage. Airport Revenue News awarded the company an ARN Award for Best Chef-Driven, Local or Regional Restaurant for Bar Symon in the Pittsburgh International Airport. The USA Today 10 Best Reader’s Choice Awards also awarded Paradies Lagardère the Best Airport Bar Wait Staff for its Bar Symon Restaurant in the Pittsburgh International Airport, and recognized Long Beach Airport, where Paradies Lagardère manages the full restaurant program, as its Best Airport for Dining.

Contact:

2849 Paces Ferry Road,
Overlook 1, Suite 400,
Atlanta, Georgia, 30339
Phone:  404-344-7905

Source: Paradies Lagardère

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International Commissary Corporation: voluntary recall of Marie Callender’s 7oz & 14oz Cheese Biscuit Mix

San Jose, CA., 2016-Jul-15 — /EPR Retail News/ — International Commissary Corporation (ICC) has issued a voluntary recall of certain lots of two retail products: Marie Callender’s 7oz & 14oz Cheese Biscuit Mix. The 7 oz recalled product has Best By dates of 3/22/17 and 5/17/17 and was sold in retail stores in the following states – AL, CA, WA, UT, and TX. The 14 oz recalled product has a Best Buy date of 6/17/17 and was sold only in Stockton, CA.

Most strains of E. coli are harmless, however, others can make you sick. E. coli O121 is a potentially deadly bacterium that can cause bloody diarrhea and dehydration. People who experience these symptoms should seek emergency medical care immediately. The very young, seniors, and those with compromised immune systems are the most susceptible to food borne illness. Anyone diagnosed by a physician as having an illness related to E. coli O121 should contact state and local public health authorities.

ICC was notified by a supplier that an ingredient contains flour which was recalled by General Mills because it may be contaminated with E. coli O121. No other Marie Callender Cheese Biscuit Mix Best By dates are affected. Food Safety is our highest priority and we have taken this action out of an abundance of caution, to protect public health. We are unaware of any illnesses to date from the recalled Marie Callender Cheese Biscuit Mix products.

Consumers who have purchased any of the recalled products are urged to throw them away. Retailers who received the recalled products are being contacted. FDA and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) warn that consumers should refrain from consuming any raw products made with flour. This recall is being made with the knowledge of FDA.

“The quality of Marie Callender’s products and the safety of our customers are the upmost important issues said Kevin Greene, VP of Sales At ICC, we care deeply about people, our consumers, our employees and our supplier partners. We are working with our retail customers and the FDA to ensure any affected product is removed from the marketplace immediately. We thank you for your patience, and appreciate your continued trust that we will do the right thing for our consumers. Consumers and media with questions can contact Joanna Fraire at 408-792-3123, Monday through Friday, from 9 AM to 4 PM Pacific or at Joanna@commissary.com

Contact:

Media:
Joanna Fraire
Joanna@commissary.com
408-792-3123

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International Commissary Corporation: voluntary recall of Marie Callender's 7oz & 14oz Cheese Biscuit Mix
International Commissary Corporation: voluntary recall of Marie Callender’s 7oz & 14oz Cheese Biscuit Mix

 

Source: USDA

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Topco announces management appointments

ELK GROVE VILLAGE, ILL., 2016-Jul-15 — /EPR Retail News/ — Topco Associates, LLC announced the appointment of two officers. Anjani Bhargava has joined the company as Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO). Danell O’Neill has been promoted to Vice President, Corporate Communications.

As Topco’s CHRO, Bhargava will have overall responsibility for the company’s Human Resources function, which includes developing and implementing Topco’s human capital strategy through comprehensive initiatives and programs. Bhargava will report directly to Topco’s President and CEO, Randy Skoda. “The most valuable part of Topco is our people. Moving our business forward begins with this intellectual capital, and Anjani brings thought leadership, a collaborative style and a hands-on approach to achieving results through people and processes,” Skoda said. “I look forward to Anjani’s leadership across our Human Resources initiatives as we continue to develop a world-class human capital strategy that further advances Topco’s mission of helping drive value for our membership.”

Bhargava comes to Topco with extensive experience working with senior executives on leadership effectiveness, talent management, organization design and building strategic human resources functions at companies such as Best Buy, Biogen, Con Agra, CDW, McDonalds and Xerox. Prior to her consulting work, Bhargava held a key leadership position at Lenovo where she led the Global Organization Development, Talent Management, Culture and Human Resources M&A functions. She also held senior Human Resources roles at Pepsi and Motorola. Bhargava has an undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of California, Riverside and her advanced training in Organizational Psychology from Northern Illinois University.

In the newly created role of Vice President, Corporate Communications, Danell O’Neill will continue to manage messaging that promotes and enhances Topco’s brand reputation for all stakeholders across all channels. A key pillar of this role will include the development and implementation of an integrated strategic communications plan that is aligned to the organization’s strategic planning process. This plan will advance the company’s brand identity, broaden awareness of its programs and priorities, and increase the visibility of its programs across key stakeholder audiences. “Under Danell’s leadership, the role of communications within Topco has become an invaluable asset that has helped to advance our position with relevant constituents, driving broader awareness, understanding and support for the organization. The need for strong communications remains critical as Topco continues to evolve its work with the membership,” said Skoda.

O’Neil joined Topco in 2013 after leading Topco’s Corporate Communications functions as a consultant for more than a year. Prior to joining Topco, O’Neill was a managing partner of a consulting company. She also held communications roles at Honeywell, Accenture and The Nielsen Company where she was Vice President of Corporate Communications.

ABOUT TOPCO ASSOCIATES LLC
Topco Associates LLC is a $15.3 billion, privately held company that provides aggregation, innovation and knowledge management solutions for its leading food industry member-owners and customers, including grocery retailers, wholesalers and food service suppliers. Topco leverages the collective volume, knowledge and commitment of these companies to create a competitive advantage in the marketplace by reducing costs and offering winning business building capabilities. For more information, please visit www.topco.com.

Media Contact:
Adam Schoor
Manager, Corporate Communications
847-745-2396
aschoor@topco.com

Source: Topco

 

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Gordy’s to host its 12th Annual Feed My People Live Charity Auction on August 5, 2016

Eau Claire, WI, 2016-Jul-15 — /EPR Retail News/ — Gordy’s 12th Annual Feed My People Live Charity Auction is scheduled for August 5, 2016. With over 1000 Live Auction Items, a Special Guest Appearance by Former Packers: Gilbert Brown and Tyrone Williams, plus our Gordy’s “Meat Guy” finishing a 100 mile ultra marathon to raise money for the Food Bank, this is a great way to get involved in a local community event and give back. See you on Friday!

What: 12th Annual Feed My People Live Charity Auction
When: Friday,August 5, 2016
Time: 9am Registration, 10am Auction Begins
Where: Gordy’s Market, 3310 E. Hamilton Ave, Eau Claire, WI
Why: All Proceeds Benefit the Feed My People Food Bank

Feed My People Live Auction Facts:
– The Feed My People Auction has helped raise almost $425,000 in the last 11 years for the Food Bank
– With every $1, Feed My People is able to provide $10 worth of food
– With every $1, Feed My People is able to provide 6 lbs. of food

Donate to Mike, Gordy’s “Meat Guy,” who is running 100 miles starting Thursday, August 4 at Gordy’s Market Rice Lake and ending at the Feed My People Live Auction at Gordy’s Market Hamilton on Friday, August 5 to raise awareness of the Feed My People Food Bank’s work and auction. All proceeds will be donated directly to the food bank!

You can donate here: http://ow.ly/9bo0302dw7p

Stay Tuned for a List of Auction Items to Start Planning Your Bids

Want to donate to this community event? Send us an email at katyp@gordysinc.com. Items have ranged from electronics, furniture, appliances, cash donations and more.

A HUGE Thank You to All Who Donated to the Live Auction!

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Gordy’s to host its 12th Annual Feed My People Live Charity Auction on August 5, 2016
Gordy’s to host its 12th Annual Feed My People Live Charity Auction on August 5, 2016

 

Source: Gordy’s

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Alibaba Group in collaboration with SAIC launches the first YunOS-enabled mass produced internet car OS’Car

Hangzhou, 2016-Jul-15 — /EPR Retail News/ — Alibaba Group (NYSE:BABA) today announced the launch of OS’Car, the first YunOS-enabled, mass produced internet car, in collaboration with SAIC Motor Corp. Alibaba unveiled “YunOS for cars”, a smart operating system tailored for the automotive industry, which marks a milestone for Alibaba’s Internet of Things (IoT) strategy and underlines the potential of internet-connected lifestyles.

“Humans have made machines more intelligent in the past few decades. What we hope to achieve in the coming decades is to inject machines with human wisdom. Just as software programs have made the phone smarter today, YunOS will make cars an even more indispensable part of human life in the future society. Today marks the dawn of that new era. We feel proud and privileged to be playing a part in driving that change.” said Jack Ma, Executive Chairman of Alibaba Group.

“We believe cars will be the next wave of access point to the internet, and the integration of our data-driven intelligent operating system to create a smart car is an important milestone as we enter the era of IoT. Working together with SAIC, Alibaba will transform the car from a mode of transportation into a new platform for smart living through the seamless use of big data, internet and cloud computing. We hope to truly elevate the experience of driving and allow consumers a new lifestyle to be enjoyed via their vehicles,” said Daniel Zhang, Chief Executive Officer of Alibaba Group.

Equipped with YunOS, the OS’Car RX5 is the first “Internet-connected Car” of its kind in mass production, co-developed after two years of intensive study and collaboration between the two pioneers in the e-commerce and the automobile industries. Unlike traditional automobiles, this new car will be supported by a cloud-based platform that enables data streaming, modeling and reporting, providing the ultimate driving experience with innovative features.

“What we are creating is not ‘internet in the car’, but a ‘car on the internet’. This is a significant milestone in the automobile industry. Smart operating systems become the second engine of cars, while data is the new fuel,” said Dr. Wang Jian, Chairman of Technology Steering Committee of Alibaba Group. “Going forward, cars will become an important platform for internet services and smart hardware innovation. We will be embracing a world where everything is closely connected.”

With cloud-based data, YunOS provides OS’Car RX5 drivers with a series of innovative features:

    • An intelligent map which enables instant and precise location by sub-meter, location tracking without WIFI or GPS, automatic change in map zoom size based on the car speed.
    • The car is able to take direct commands through smart voice control, creating a more natural and safer driving environment. Audio is the primary mode for controlling the system.
    • Equipped with up to four detachable action cameras, it enables video recordings of the journey and 360-degree in-car selfies. The selfies can be shared instantly with friends via the connected smart phone.
    • As the first car with an “Internet ID”, OS’Car can recognize the driver through connected smart phones or smart watches. It also enables personalized internet services such as greetings, preferred music and destinations.
    • Three integrated screens- a large touch screen, LED dashboard and an intelligent rear-view mirror – result in safer driving.
    • OS’Car RX5 uses an open platform, for different smart  hardware and services which will enable the introduction of additional premium and creative driving experiences for users.

Furthermore, the OS’Car RX5 adopts a new generation of design language, using advanced fuel technology, more powerful accelerator, lower oil consumption and have a shorter braking distance.

The OS’Car RX5 is currently available for sale from RMB 99,800 to RMB 186,800. The OS’Car RX5 will be simultaneously launched on the SAIC Tmall flagship store today and presented at the Alibaba Automobile Festival from July 20 to 31, 2016.

For more details about “YunOS for car”, please visit www.yunos.com.

About YunOS
YunOS is the smart operating system developed by Alibaba Group. It incorporates Alibaba’s expertise in big data, cloud services and operating systems for smart devices. YunOS is operated on smartphones, set-top boxes, internet TVs, home appliances, automobile devices, and smart wearables.

Contact:

Alibaba (China) Co., Ltd:

969 West Wen Yi Road
Yu Hang District
Hangzhou 311121
China
Tel: (+86) 571-8502-2088
Fax: (+86) 571-8526-9066

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Alibaba Group in collaboration with SAIC launches the first YunOS-enabled mass produced internet car OS'Car
Alibaba Group in collaboration with SAIC launches the first YunOS-enabled mass produced internet car OS’Car

 

Source: Alibaba Group

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Dunkin’ Donuts to serve 100% espresso beans sourced from Rainforest Alliance Certified™ farms by the end of this year

Dunkin’ Donuts espresso beverages in U.S. and 16 international markets to be made with 100% Rainforest Alliance Certified™ espresso beans by end of 2016

Rainforest Alliance works around the world to support long-term sustainability and the quality of life for farmers, their families and their communities

CANTON, MA, 2016-Jul-15 — /EPR Retail News/ — As a coffee leader, Dunkin’ Donuts is committed to sustainable sourcing, incorporating certified products in its coffee portfolio and helping to make a positive impact on farming communities worldwide. Today, the brand announced that it will continue to fulfill this commitment by expanding its current work with the Rainforest Alliance to have all Dunkin’ Donuts’ espresso beverages served at Dunkin’ Donuts U.S. restaurants and in approximately 16 international markets made with 100% espresso beans sourced from Rainforest Alliance Certified™ farms by the end of this year.

The Rainforest Alliance is an international nonprofit organization that works to conserve biodiversity and ensure sustainable livelihoods so that the planet and people prosper together. Rainforest Alliance certification helps to protect wildlife; safeguard soils and waterways; and improve quality of life for workers, their families and local communities.

Findings in the Sustainable Agriculture Network (SAN) / Rainforest Alliance Impacts Report, released early this year, show that Rainforest Alliance certification benefits small-scale producers. Smallholder farms applying the agronomic practices outlined in the SAN Standard were found to increase productivity and profitability, improve environmental quality and health, and had increased access to training. In addition, certification helps to improve working conditions and access to medical care and schools for their children.

Espresso beans from Rainforest Alliance Certified farms are the latest in several recent introductions of products by Dunkin’ Brands, parent company of Dunkin’ Donuts and Baskin-Robbins, that carry the Rainforest Alliance Certified seal. In the U.S. and select international markets, Dunkin’ Donuts serves 30% Rainforest Alliance Certified Dark Roast Coffee, and 30% Rainforest Alliance Certified Iced Green Tea is available in select U.S. markets. In 2015, Dunkin’ Donuts offered 30% Rainforest Alliance Certified Colombian Packaged Coffee, the brand’s first-ever single-origin packaged coffee, for a limited time. Internationally, Baskin-Robbins launched Lemon Black Tea Sorbet and Raspberry Black Tea Sorbet, each made with 50% Rainforest Alliance Certified black tea, as limited time offers in 2014.

Additionally, since 2010, Dunkin’ Brands has granted more than $260,000 to the Rainforest Alliance to fund projects on coffee and tea farms in Colombia, Guatemala, Ethiopia and India. With these funds, the Rainforest Alliance has provided technical assistance and training programs to coffee and tea farmers seeking to improve the sustainability and productivity of their farms. The grants have also helped certify more than 4,000 coffee farms, which now abide by comprehensive economic, social and environmental criteria developed by SAN, and provide training for farmers to assist them in better adapting to climate change.

According to Christine Riley Miller, Dunkin’ Brands Senior Director of Corporate Social Responsibility, “Dunkin’ Donuts is committed to responsibly serving our guests, franchisees, communities and the interests of our planet. Rainforest Alliance encompasses the economic, social and environmental aspects of sustainability to help farmers, particularly small-scale farmers, achieve an increase in profitability and productivity. We are excited to grow our work with the Rainforest Alliance, and going forward we hope to continue to increase the number of certified items — both coffee and other products — we make available to our guests.”

“We’re proud to be working with a company that shares our vision for a future where people and the planet can prosper together,” said Alex Morgan, Director of Markets Transformation for the Rainforest Alliance. “By prioritizing sustainably sourced coffee, Dunkin’ Donuts is renewing their commitment to being environmentally, socially, and economically responsible.”

To learn more about Dunkin’ Donuts, visit www.DunkinDonuts.com or follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/DunkinDonuts), Instagram (www.instagram.com/DunkinDonuts) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/DunkinDonuts). To download and read Dunkin’ Brands’ Corporate Social Responsibility Report, Broadening Our Horizons, please visit http://dun.kn/CSR2014Report.

For more information on the work of the Rainforest Alliance visit www.rainforest-alliance.org or follow them on Facebook (www.facebook.com/RainforestAlliance), Instagram (www.instagram.com/rainforestalliance), Twitter (www.twitter.com/rnfrstalliance) and LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/company/rainforest-alliance).

About Dunkin’ Donuts
Founded in 1950, Dunkin’ Donuts is America’s favorite all-day, everyday stop for coffee and baked goods. Dunkin’ Donuts is a market leader in the hot regular/decaf/flavored coffee, iced coffee, donut, bagel and muffin categories. Dunkin’ Donuts has earned a No. 1 ranking for customer loyalty in the coffee category by Brand Keys for 10 years running. The company has more than 11,800 restaurants in 44 countries worldwide. Based in Canton, Mass., Dunkin’ Donuts is part of the Dunkin’ Brands Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: DNKN) family of companies. For more information, visit www.DunkinDonuts.com.

About the Rainforest Alliance
The Rainforest Alliance is an international nonprofit organization that works around the world to conserve forests and natural resources while advancing sustainable livelihoods. Rainforest Alliance collaborates with foresters, farmers, businesses and workers to build healthy communities, protect habitat, and rebalance the Earth, working towards the vision of a world where planet and people prosper together.  To learn more about the Rainforest Alliance, visit www.rainforest-alliance.org.

If you are member of the press, you may contact the Dunkin’ Brands Global Media Relations Office by email with your detailed inquiry and deadline at press@dunkinbrands.com. A member of the team will respond to your inquiry as soon as possible.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Lindsay Cronin
Phone: 781-737-5200
Email:lindsay.cronin@dunkinbrands.com

Source: Dunkin Donuts

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PRIX DU ROMAN FNAC 2016

La Fnac révèle les 30 romans en lice pour le Prix du Roman Fnac 2016

Paris, 2016-Jul-15 — /EPR Retail News/ — Cette année, la Fnac célèbre la 15e édition de son Prix du Roman Fnac. Premier temps fort de la rentrée littéraire, la remise du Prix le 1er septembre donnera également cette année le coup d’envoi du premier Forum Fnac Livres (du 2 au 4 septembre au Carreau du Temple à Paris).

Cette année encore, 400 adhérents et 400 libraires de la Fnac ont pu découvrir sur épreuves les parutions de la rentrée littéraire 2016 et désigner en toute liberté leurs 30 romans favoris, reflet des œuvres phares de l’automne.

Les finalistes de cette sélection seront dévoilés fin août et le grand lauréat de cette édition sera connu le jeudi 1er septembre. Le Prix du Roman Fnac lui sera remis lors de l’inauguration du premier Forum Fnac Livres au Carreau du Temple de Paris par son invité d’honneur, l’écrivain américain Jonathan Franzen.

Qui parmi cette sélection succèdera à Laurent Binet et son roman « La septième fonction du langage » ?

LA SÉLECTION DES 30 ROMANS DE LA RENTRÉE LITTÉRAIRE FNAC :

– Un paquebot dans les arbres, Valentine Goby, éd. Actes Sud
– 14 juillet, Eric Vuillard, éd. Actes Sud
– Ecoutez nos défaites, Laurent Gaudé, éd. Actes Sud
– Sur cette terre comme au ciel, Davide Enia, éd. Albin Michel
– Possédées, Frédéric Gros, éd. Albin Michel
– Le bal mécanique, Yannick Grannec, éd. Anne Carrière
– La tentation d’être heureux, Lorenzo Marone, éd. Belfond
– Voici venir les rêveurs, Imbolo Mbue, éd. Belfond
– Derniers feux sur Sunset, Stewart O’ Nan, éd. de l’Olivier
– Continuer, Laurent Mauvignier, éd. de Minuit
– Le jour se lève et ce n’est pas le tien, Frédéric Couderc, éd. Héloïse d’Ormesson
– Le jardin arc-en-ciel, Ito Ogawa, éd. Philippe Picquier
– Repose-toi sur moi, Serge Joncourt, éd. Flammarion
– Tropique de la violence, natacha Appanah, éd. Gallimard
– Ada, Antoine Bello, éd. Gallimard
– Chanson douce, Leila Slimani, éd. Gallimard
– Petit pays, Gaël Faye, éd. Grasset
– Police, Hugo Boris, éd. Grasset
– Dieu n’habite pas La Havane, Yasmina Khadra, éd. Julliard
– Anguille sous roche, Ali Zamir, éd. Le Tripode
– Désorientale, Negar Djavadi, éd. Liana Levi
– Watership down, Richard Adams, éd. Monsieur Toussaint Louverture
– Les mots entre mes mains, Guinevere Glasfurd, éd. Préludes
– Le Grand Jeu, Céline Minard, éd. Rivages
– J’ai longtemps eu peur de la nuit, Yasmine Ghata, éd. Robert Laffont
– L’archipel d’une autre vie, Andrei Makine, éd. Seuil
– Cannibales, Régis Jauffret, éd. Seuil
– Eclipses japonaises, Eric Faye, éd. Seuil
– Au commencement du 7e jour, Luc Lang, éd. Stock
– Le garçon, Marcus Malte, éd. Zulma

CONTACTS PRESSE :
FNAC
AUDREY BOUCHARD
01 55 21 59 25 // audrey.bouchard@fnac.com

FORUM FNAC LIVRES :
AGENCE ANNE & ARNAUD

ANNE VAUDOYER
06 63 04 00 62
anne@anneetarnaud.com

ARNAUD LABORY
06 22 53 05 98
arnaud@anneetarnaud.com

Source: Fnac

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NCR Corporation to release its second quarter 2016 financial results on Tuesday, July 26, 2016

Duluth, Ga., 2016-Jul-15 — /EPR Retail News/ — NCR Corporation (NYSE: NCR) will release its second quarter 2016 financial results after the market close on Tuesday, July 26, 2016. A conference call is scheduled at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) on the same day.

Participants should plan to access the call 15 minutes prior to the start time to ensure a smooth connection. Details are as follows:

Conference Call Dial In Numbers: 

888-211-4434 (US/Canada)  |  +1 913-312-0665 (International)

Passcode:  9398034

Time:  4:30 pm EDT

Date: July 26, 2016

The live conference call, replay and slides will also be available at http://investor.ncr.com/.

To listen to a replay of this conference call, please register here using the passcode: 9398034.

For any difficulties accessing the conference call, please contact Mary Burke from NCR at (678) 808-7643.

About NCR
NCR Corporation (NYSE: NCR) is a leader in omni-channel solutions, 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, Ga., 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.  All other trademarks or registered trademarks are property of their respective owners.

NCR encourages investors to visit its website, which is updated regularly with financial and other important information about NCR.

Website: www.ncr.com
Twitter: @NCRCorporation
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ncrcorp
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/ncr-corporation
YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/ncrcorporation

Investor Contact:

Gavin Bell
NCR Corporation
212.589.8468
gavin.bell@ncr.com

Media Contact:

Scott Sykes
NCR Corporation
212.589.8428
scott.sykes@ncr.com

Source: NCR

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NCR Corporation among nominees for the German Design Award 2017

DULUTH, Ga., 2016-Jul-15 — /EPR Retail News/ — NCR Corporation (NYSE: NCR), the global leader in consumer transaction technologies, is among the nominees for the prestigious German Design Award 2017. The German Design Council has deemed NCR’s SelfServ 91 in the cantilever deployment as worthy for one of their prestigious design award for its combination of the look and feel of today’s consumer electronics with modern banking service while at the same time allowing barrier free access.

The German Design Council is one of the world’s leading centers of expertise on design. With its German Design Award it honors innovative products, their manufacturers and designers who have made pioneering contributions to the German and international design landscape.

The competition is only open to entries that have been nominated by the German Design Councils’ expert committee. Those nominated for the German Design Award have already managed to successfully set themselves apart from the masses and are subsequently entitled to compete with the finest in the field of product design. Therefore, the nomination in itself already is a distinction.

“The design of ATMs has evolved continuously since their invention, but the fundamental construction and build hasn’t been questioned”, explained Harald Heinz, Area Sales Leader Financial Services at NCR in the DACH region. “Our NCR SelfServ 91 cantilever sets a new benchmark in the design and we are proud that this now has been acknowledged with this nomination. It proves that the continuous improvements of our product design resonates with current consumer trends and that our systems are real eye-catchers in every branch.”

In the cantilever design the customer interfaces are placed at a 90° angle from the wall opening up a variety of interior design options for banks. Furthermore, wheelchair users can drive underneath and use it as easily as all other customers.

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

Website: www.ncr.com
Twitter: @NCRCorporation
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ncrcorp
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/ncr-corporation
YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/ncrcorporation

News Media Contacts:

Ortrud Wenzel
NCR Corporation
+49 821 405 8191
ortrud.wenzel@ncr.com

Source: NCR