Daily Archives: August 9, 2016

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The German e-commerce industry benefits from Georgia’s under-utilized .GE ccTLD

Ge-for-germany

Germany, 2016-Aug-09 — /EPR Retail News/ — The success of thousands of German businesses is in jeopardy, hindered by the oversubscribed domain extension .DE. Soon, there will be no domains left for new businesses to register.

As the country code top-level domain (ccTLD) for Germany, the .DE domain extension represents a booming online marketplace serving a domestic population of over 82 million. The third most popular top-level domain (after .COM and .TK) the .DE zone has very few short or dictionary word domains left available. In no time at all, those looking to register their business online will have to choose between obscure names, misspellings, or random word combinations to secure a domain in the .DE zone. Their customers will never find them.

This is a serious problem that has the power to halt the growth of the German e-commerce industry, but there is a small group of marketers working tirelessly to address it – and they’ve found a solution.

According to GlobalR.com, a domain registry specializing in .GE domains, the entire English-speaking world knows Deutschland as Germany. To them, .DE is irrelevant and Georgia’s .GE ccTLD is the obvious choice for native German businesses. With barely 30,000 registered domains in the .GE zone, this under-utilized ccTLD represents an unrivaled opportunity for German business owners, giving them their pick of domain names and a ccTLD the majority of consumers automatically associate with Germany.

It’s a solution Germany’s e-commerce industry has been quick to champion. The result has been a marked improvement in the .GE domain name registration procedure, with the process now automated and usually taking no longer than 48 hours. Add to that the competitive prices of .GE domains, almost limitless choice of names, and the development of bulk registration packages, and it’s little wonder pioneering businesses and startups all over the country are rushing to capitalize on the many lucrative opportunities available to owners of a .GE domain.

SOURCE: EuropaWire

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SpartanNash Company’s Board of Directors named to the Savoy MagazinePower 300: 2016 Most Influential Black Corporate Directors list

Byron Center, MI, , 2016-Aug-09 — /EPR Retail News/ — Two members of the SpartanNash Company’s Board of Directors have been named to the Savoy Magazine Power 300: 2016 Most Influential Black Corporate Directors listing. Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Hawthorne L. “Peet” Proctor and Yvonne R. Jackson have served as directors on the SpartanNash Board since its inception, following the Spartan Stores and Nash Finch Company merger in 2013. They are being recognized along with other African-American executives, influencers and achievers – including Richard Parsons, former CEO of Time Warner, and Gen. (Ret.) Colin L. Powell – on the Savoy Summer issue’s Power 300.

“We are fortunate to have such fantastic Corporate Directors who are an incredible resource to our Company and instrumental in SpartanNash achieving its vision to be a best in class business that feels local, where relationships matter,” said Dennis Eidson, SpartanNash President, CEO, and Chairman of the Board of Directors. Each director’s unique background and talents expand our perspective and foster our innovation. Yvonne and Peet’s inclusion on this elite list certainly makes that point. We are honored to have them on our Board and are pleased that their accomplishments have been recognized by their inclusion in Savoy Magazine 2016’s Most Influential Black Corporate Directors.”

Jackson was appointed to the Spartan Stores Board of Directors in October 2010 and continues to serve on the SpartanNash Board. She is the president and principal of BeecherJackson, Inc., a human resources management consulting firm she co-founded in 2006. With more than 30 years of experience in human resources, Jackson’s skills enable her to assist the SpartanNash Board in its deliberations regarding succession planning, compensation and benefits, change management, talent management, organizational management and diversity strategies.

Read Jackson’s full Savoy profile: http://savoynetwork.com/mibcd2016/yvonne-r-jackson/.

Proctor was appointed to the Nash Finch Board of Directors in 2007 and continues to serve on the SpartanNash Board. He draws on his extensive military career, including serving as the 46th Quartermaster General of the United States Army. SpartanNash’s MDV military division is the leading distributor to U.S. commissaries and exchanges in the world.

Proctor currently serves as managing partner of Proctor & Boone LLC, a business consulting organization, and senior logistics consultant in the Department of Defense Business Group of Intelligent Decisions, Inc., where he has worked since 2006. He is also chief executive officer of ProMar, Inc., a small business in Northern Virginia.

Read Proctor’s full Savoy profile: http://savoynetwork.com/mibcd2016/major-general-hawthorne-l-proctor/.

Savoy’s 2016 Most Influential Black Corporate Directors list includes 300 leading Black executives who are making or have made significant inroads within their companies to foster inclusion and to broaden the discussion about the importance of diversity on the bottom line.

The Savoy summer issue includes a cover story on Richard D. Parsons and a tribute to Muhammad Ali and is available on newsstands today.

About SpartanNash
SpartanNash (Nasdaq: SPTN) is a Fortune 400 company and the leading food distributor serving U.S. military commissaries and exchanges in the world, in terms of revenue. The Company’s core businesses include distributing food to military commissaries and exchanges and independent and corporate-owned retail stores located in 47 states and the District of Columbia, Europe, Cuba, Puerto Rico, Bahrain and Egypt. SpartanNash currently operates 160 supermarkets, primarily under the banners of Family Fare Supermarkets, Family Fresh Markets, D&W Fresh Markets, Econofoods and SunMart.

Contact:

Meredith Gremel
Vice President
Corporate Affairs & Communications
616-878-2830

Source: SpartanNash

 

 

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Staples donates $131,447 for school literacy projects listed on DonorsChoose.org in Los Angeles

Staples donates $131,447 for school literacy projects listed on DonorsChoose.org in Los Angeles
Staples donates $131,447 for school literacy projects listed on DonorsChoose.org in Los Angeles

 

LOS ANGELES, 2016-Aug-09 — /EPR Retail News/ — Staples, Inc. (NASDAQ: SPLS) announced that all music and arts projects, all college and career prep projects and all middle school and high school literacy projects posted on DonorsChoose.org in Los Angeles received full funding as part of Staples’ $1 million donation to DonorsChoose.org, a charity that has funded more than 700,000 classroom projects for teachers and has positively affected more than 18 million U.S. students.

As part of the Staples for Students program, Staples and Katy Perry continue to help teachers across the country this back-to-school season. Staples funded the balance of every music and arts project, college and career prep project and middle school and high school literacy projects listed on DonorsChoose.org in Los Angeles. With a donation of $131,447, Staples helped 121 teachers make more happen in local classrooms, impacting more than 15,500 students across 97 schools in the community.

For example, Mrs. Letford at New Academy Elementary School will receive new xylophones, ribbon bands and a new flute so her students can continue to express themselves through music and dance.

Katy Perry said, “When I teamed up with Staples in 2014, I learned firsthand how desperately teachers need our support, with many of them having to dig into their own pockets to provide simple tools that we would expect to already be available in our classrooms. So when Staples approached me again this year, I jumped at the opportunity because I saw the lasting effect our collaboration had on DonorsChoose.org and thousands of teachers and students. I believe in education as the foundation for a great life, so I want to make sure that students across the country are inspired by their teachers and are afforded opportunity to realize their dreams.”

Driven by insight from the Education Market Association that an estimated 99.5 percent of all public school teachers’ use their own money to equip their classrooms, Staples takes great pride in helping to alleviate some of the pressure placed upon teachers.

“We’re overjoyed to partner with Katy Perry again to highlight the impact teachers have on our children’s lives and the need to support classrooms,” said Frank P. Bifulco, Jr., executive vice president global marketing, Staples. “Knowing that teachers spend an average of more than $400 per year from their own pockets to better prepare their classrooms, Staples is committed to supporting DonorsChoose.org in order to help teachers and contribute to a fulfilling learning experience.”

Katy Perry and Staples have also collaborated to create a public service announcement that is currently airing nationwide, further increasing visibility around the need to celebrate and support teachers.

“We’re so thankful for the continued support from Staples and its loyal customers, as well as Katy Perry, which has helped bring classroom dreams to life for countless teachers and students nationwide,” said Charles Best, founder of DonorsChoose.org. “Staples’ million dollar donation to DonorsChoose.org will go a long way to helping educators across the country, like those supported today in Los Angeles.”

Donate in Stores or Snap to Help Local Teachers
Katy Perry has been helping Staples raise awareness of how easy it is to support teachers by making a $1 donation either in stores or online at www.StaplesForStudents.com, with proceeds funding DonorsChoose.org projects. Beginning in early August, every customer who donates in-store will receive a free, exclusive Katy Perry pencil, while supplies last.

Los Angeles residents can secure more donations for their local classrooms by using the Staples for Students Snapchat Geofilter. Beginning August 4th and running through August 6th, every use of the Staples for Students Snapchat Geofilter will trigger a $1 donation (up to $5,000) from Staples to be used towards Los Angeles classroom projects on DonorsChoose.org. The Geofilter will be available for use in the Staples store in the Baldwin Hills Crenshaw shopping plaza (located at 3701 W. Santa Rosalia Driver) and in the surrounding area.

Sponsored Geofilters allow brands to take part in Snaps sent between friends on Snapchat – a platform used by over 100 million people each day. When Snapchatters take a Snap in a certain area, they’ll be able to see a Geofilter and use it to explain where, when and why they took the Snap.

Win a $50,000 Scholarship and Chance to Meet Katy Perry
Now through September 10, 2016, fans who spend $25 or more in any Staples store will receive a unique entry code on their receipt to enter the sweepstakes online at www.StaplesForStudents.com.

One grand prize winner will win a $50,000 scholarship plus a trip for two to Los Angeles to meet global pop music star, Katy Perry. Four first prize winners and one guest each will also win air travel to Los Angeles and accommodations for two nights to meet Katy Perry at the VIP Winners Celebration.

Entries must be submitted before September 10, 2016 at 11:59 PM ET. Entrants must be 13 years or older. Visit www.StaplesForStudents.com for official rules.

About Staples, Inc.
Staples retail stores and Staples.com help small business customers make more happen by providing a broad assortment of products, expanded business services and easy ways to shop, all backed with a lowest price guarantee. Staples offers businesses the convenience to shop and buy how and when they want – in store, online, via mobile or though social apps. Staples.com customers can either buy online and pick-up in store or ship for free from Staples.com with Staples Rewards minimum purchase. Expanded services also make it easy for businesses to succeed with in-store Business Centers featuring shipping services and products, copying, scanning, faxing and computer work stations, Tech Services, full-service Print & Marketing Services, Staples Merchant Services, small business lending and credit services.

Staples Business Advantage, the business-to-business division of Staples, Inc., helps mid-market, commercial and enterprise-sized customers make more happen by offering a curated assortment of products and services combined with deep expertise, best-in-class customer service, competitive pricing and state-of-the art-ecommerce site. Staples Business Advantage is the one-source solution for all things businesses need to succeed, including office supplies, facilities cleaning and maintenance, breakroom snacks and beverages, technology, furniture, interior design and Print & Marketing Services. Headquartered outside of Boston, Staples, Inc. operates throughout North and South America,Europe, Asia, Australia and New Zealand. More information about Staples (NASDAQ: SPLS) is available at www.staples.com.

About Staples for Students
Staples has a long history of supporting students, teachers and classrooms. Staples for Students is an ongoing program that helps students and teachers with the school supplies and essential items needed to achieve success in education. The Staples for Students campaign has included school supply drives, support for teachers in classrooms, donations for education projects, classroom initiatives such as Designed by Students, and the sale of products that give back to communities and classrooms in need.

About DonorsChoose.org
Founded in 2000, DonorsChoose.org makes it easy for anyone to help a classroom in need. Teachers at over 70 percent of all the public schools in America have created project requests, and more than 2 million people have donated over $425 million to projects that inspire them. Over 18 million students—most from low-income communities, and many in disaster-stricken areas—have received books, art supplies, field trips, technology, and other resources that they need to learn.

Contact:

Kristine Houston
508-253-8468
Kristine.Houston@Staples.com

Carrie McElwee
508-253-1405
Carrie.McElwee@Staples.com

Source: Staples, Inc.

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Staples’ Less List for School features school essentials with prices as low as 17 cents

Staples' Less List for School features school essentials with prices as low as 17 cents
Staples’ Less List for School features school essentials with prices as low as 17 cents

 

BOSTON, 2016-Aug-09 — /EPR Retail News/ — Staples, Inc. (NASDAQ:SPLS) offers school essentials with prices as low as 17 cents on the Less List for School.

The Staples Less List for School features season-long low prices on back-to-school essentials to offer customers even more savings. One Subject Notebooks (17¢, in-store only), Crayola Classic Markers, 10 pack (97¢, in-store only), Two Pocket Paper Folders (17¢), in-store only), Staples Yellow #2 Pencils, 12 pack (75¢), Staples Clear Gluesticks, 4 pack ($1)and Bic Round Stic Ballpoint Pens, 12 pack ($1) are just some of the low prices customers will find on the Less List for School (www.staples.com/lesslist).

In addition to the Less List for School, Staples offers Weekly School Steals, savings through Staples Rewards and low prices all season long, backed by the Staples 110% Lowest Price Guarantee.

Less List for School pricing valid through the back-to-school season.

For media information, visit Staples.com/btspr

About Staples, Inc.
Staples retail stores and Staples.com help small business customers make more happen by providing a broad assortment of products, expanded business services and easy ways to shop, all backed with a lowest price guarantee. Staples offers businesses the convenience to shop and buy how and when they want – in store, online, via mobile or though social apps. Staples.com customers can either buy online and pick-up in store or ship for free from Staples.com with Staples Rewards minimum purchase. Expanded services also make it easy for businesses to succeed with in-store Business Centers featuring shipping services and products, copying, scanning, faxing and computer work stations, Tech Services, full-service Print & Marketing Services, Staples Merchant Services, small business lending and credit services.

Contact:
Kristine Houston
508-253-8468
Kristine.Houston@Staples.com

Carrie McElwee
508-253-1405
Carrie.McElwee@Staples.com

Source: Staples, Inc.

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Staples features latest back-to-school trends at the lowest prices

Staples features latest back-to-school trends at the lowest prices
Staples features latest back-to-school trends at the lowest prices

 

FRAMINGHAM, Mass., 2016-Aug-09 — /EPR Retail News/ —  Celebrating 30 years of back-to-school experience, Staples, Inc. (NASDAQ: SPLS) makes easy back-to-school shopping happen with top brands and the latest trends at the lowest prices, period.

The new 2016 back-to-school trends range from runway-inspired metallic, tropical prints, bohemian vibe patterns and classic essentials that students can mix and match to create a personalized look. Staples is in stock all-season-long at the lowest prices backed by the Staples 110% Price Match Guarantee.

Building on its expertise, Staples has cultivated an assortment of products that covers everything on shoppers’ school lists.

For more top trends and photos throughout the season, visit http://flipbookie.com/StaplesTrends2016/index.html

For media information, visit Staples.com/btspr

About Staples, Inc.
Staples retail stores and Staples.com help small business customers make more happen by providing a broad assortment of products, expanded business services and easy ways to shop, all backed with a lowest price guarantee. Staples offers businesses the convenience to shop and buy how and when they want – in store, online, via mobile or though social apps. Staples.com customers can either buy online and pick-up in store or ship for free from Staples.com with Staples Rewards minimum purchase. Expanded services also make it easy for businesses to succeed with in-store Business Centers featuring shipping services and products, copying, scanning, faxing and computer work stations, Tech Services, full-service Print & Marketing Services, Staples Merchant Services, small business lending and credit services.

Contact:
Kristine Houston
508-253-8468
Kristine.Houston@Staples.com

Carrie McElwee
508-253-1405
Carrie.McElwee@Staples.com

Source: Staples, Inc.

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Moonbasa and ITA Partnership Provides New e-Platforms for U.S. Brands Interested in Selling to China

Los Angeles, CA, 2016-Aug-09 — /EPR Retail News/ — The International Trade Administration (ITA) has partnered with Moonbasa, a large China-based e-commerce company, to support a digital platform dedicated to U.S. brands interested in selling to the Chinese market. This will provide U.S. companies with an opportunity to open a web store on Moonbasa’s e-commerce platform, and also give them an opportunity to participate in a three-day online-to-off-line (o-to-o) experience at Moonbasa’s flagship digital store in Shanghai.

moonbasa image

According to Kim-Bang Nguyen, Director, Export Promotion and Strategic Business Alliances for the Office of Textiles and Apparel (OTEXA) at ITA, “China is a difficult market to penetrate, especially for small- and medium-size businesses. We believe Moonbasa, an e-commerce platform with a dedicated ‘U.S. Brand Mall’ and full-service commerce solutions, is an effective way for these businesses to create a new channel of distribution in China.”

Moonbasa is a China-based fashion-only e-commerce platform with an all-inclusive turnkey service. It launched a ‘U.S. Brand Mall’ last year supporting more than 25 small-to medium-sized U.S. brands. Such brands currently on the platform include Ocean Current, Taylor and Sage, Janet Chung, Band of Gypsies, and Halo. An o-to-o operation, Moonbasa is slated to open 15 more brand stores this year.

Moonbasa will be exhibiting at WWDMAGIC in the Las Vegas Convention Center August 15-17 in booth 73500 Central Hall, and welcomes U.S. fashion brands to learn about this opportunity. Brands can also contact Barbara Graff, bgraff@moonbasausa.com or Kim-Bang Nguyen, kim-bang.nguyen@trade.gov
for additional information.

Contact-Details:
moonbasa logo
Moonbasa/barbara graff,
2300 E. 11th st.,
p: 805-630-0585,
graff@moonbasausa.com,
www.us.moonbasa,com,
www.moonbasausa.com

SOURCE: EPR Network

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PVH Corp. announces the appointment of Raf Simons as Chief Creative Officer of Calvin Klein, Inc. brand

PVH Corp. announces the appointment of Raf Simons as Chief Creative Officer of Calvin Klein, Inc. brand
PVH Corp. announces the appointment of Raf Simons as Chief Creative Officer of Calvin Klein, Inc. brand

 

NEW YORK, 2016-Aug-09 — /EPR Retail News/ — Calvin Klein, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of PVH Corp. (NYSE:PVH), today (Aug. 2, 2016) announced the appointment of Raf Simons as Chief Creative Officer of the brand, effective immediately.

Mr. Simons will lead the creative strategy of the Calvin Klein brand globally across the Calvin Klein Collection,Calvin Klein Platinum,Calvin Klein,Calvin Klein Jeans,Calvin Klein Underwear and Calvin Klein Home brands. As part of his role as Chief Creative Officer, Mr. Simons will oversee all aspects of Design,Global Marketing and Communications, and Visual Creative Services. Mr. Simons’ first collections will debut for the Fall 2017 season.

The appointment of Mr. Simons as Chief Creative Officer marks the implementation of Calvin Klein’s new global creative strategy, announced in April 2016, to unify all Calvin Klein brands under one creative vision. The strategy comes as part of a global evolution of the Calvin Klein brand, which began with the reacquisition of the Calvin Klein Jeans and Calvin Klein Underwear businesses in 2013. As Calvin Klein looks to grow the brand to $10 billion in global retail sales, this new leadership is intended to further strengthen the brand’s premium positioning worldwide and pave the way for future long-term global growth.

“The arrival of Raf Simons as Chief Creative Officer signifies a momentous new chapter for Calvin Klein,” said Steve Shiffman, CEO of Calvin Klein, Inc. “Not since Mr. Klein himself was at the company has it been led by one creative visionary, and I am confident that this decision will drive the Calvin Klein brand and have a significant impact on its future. Raf’s exceptional contributions have shaped and modernized fashion as we see it today and, under his direction, Calvin Klein will further solidify its position as a leading global lifestyle brand.”

As part of the creative strategy for the apparel and accessories business, Calvin Klein also announced the hire of Pieter Mulier as Creative Director, reporting directly to Mr. Simons. Mr. Mulier will be responsible for executing Mr. Simons’ creative and design vision for men’s and women’s ready to wear, as well as the bridge and better apparel lines and accessories. He will also manage all men’s and women’s design teams within the Calvin Klein brand, under Mr. Simons’ leadership.

Calvin Klein, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of PVH Corp. (NYSE:PVH), is one of the leading fashion design and marketing studios in the world. It designs and markets women’s and men’s designer collection apparel and a range of other products that are manufactured and marketed through an extensive network of licensing agreements and other arrangements worldwide. Product lines under the various Calvin Klein brands include women’s dresses and suits, men’s dress furnishings and tailored clothing, men’s and women’s sportswear and bridge and collection apparel, golf apparel, jeanswear, underwear, fragrances, eyewear, women’s performance apparel, hosiery, socks, footwear, swimwear, jewelry, watches, outerwear, handbags, small leather goods, and home furnishings (including furniture). For more information, please visit calvinklein.com.

With a heritage going back over 130 years, PVH Corp. has excelled at growing brands and businesses with rich American heritages, becoming one of the largest apparel companies in the world. We have over 30,000 associates operating in over 40 countries with over $8 billion in 2015 revenues. We own the iconic Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, Van Heusen, IZOD, ARROW, Speedo*, Warner’s and Olga brands and market a variety of goods under these and other nationally and internationally known owned and licensed brands.

*The Speedo brand is licensed for North America and the Caribbean in perpetuity from Speedo International, Ltd.

SAFE HARBOR STATEMENT UNDER THE PRIVATE SECURITIES LITIGATION REFORM ACT OF 1995: Forward-looking statements made in this release, including, without limitation, statements relating to the future plans, strategies, objectives, expectations and intentions of PVH Corp. and its subsidiaries (collectively, “PVH”) are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Investors are cautioned that such forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which cannot be predicted with accuracy, and some of which might not be anticipated, including (i) PVH’s plans, strategies, objectives, expectations and intentions are subject to change at any time at its discretion; and (ii) other risks and uncertainties indicated from time to time in PVH’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

The Company does not undertake any obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of the receipt of new information, future events or otherwise.
SOCIAL MEDIA: facebook.com/calvinklein; calvinklein.tumblr.com; google.com/+calvinklein;
youtube.com/calvinklein; twitter.com/calvinklein; instagram.com/calvinklein;
pinterest.com/calvinklein
snapchat: calvinklein
show yours. #mycalvins
brand handle: @calvinklein

Contacts:

Global Communications Office
Rod Manley
212-292-9795
EVP, Global Communications
rodmanley@ck.com

Alexandra Wagner
212-292-9794
VP, Corporate Communications
alexandrawagner@ck.com

EMEA Communications Office
Denise Zamarioni
+39 02 550 50 510
SVP Public Relations – EMEA
denisezamarioni@ck.com

PR CONSULTING
Pierre Rougier
pierre@prconsulting.net

Source: Source: Calvin Klein, Inc.

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Olga launches new line of intimate apparel, Olga Flirty

Olga launches new line of intimate apparel, Olga Flirty
Olga launches new line of intimate apparel, Olga Flirty

 

NEW YORK, 2016-Aug-09 — /EPR Retail News/ — PVH Corp. (NYSE: PVH), owner of Olga, a leading intimate apparel brand for curvy and fuller-busted women, introduces Olga Flirty, a collection of bras and panties featuring sexy details like lace and plunging necklines. Bras are available in sizes up to 46 bands and G and H cups, and panties are available up to size 4XL, marking the largest size range offering ever under the brand.The Flirty line launches this month nationwide in select Kohl’s and Macy’sstores and online. Women can join the conversation using #FearlesslyFlirty, as Olga helps women of all sizes feel confident, flaunt their curves and exude a flirty attitude.

“Traditionally, sexy and beautiful bras for full-busted women have been scarce and expensive,” said Les Hall, President of Core Intimates at PVH. “We drew from our decades of experience creating functional intimate apparel to design a collection with a fun, youthful aesthetic that today’s modern, body-positive woman is seeking.  Olga Flirty will give more women the styles they want to feel beautiful, confident and ‘fearlessly flirty’ – at an incredible value.”

The collection includes four bra styles – a balconette, deep plunge, deep plunge with lace and an unlined underwire – along with a coordinating panty. Suggested retail price is $45.00 for bras and $12.50 for the hipster panty.

About Olga
At Olga, we have over 70 years’ experience designing beautiful – and functional – intimate apparel for confident, modern women. We realize the Olga woman needs bras and panties that match her lifestyle – but more importantly, provide her with best in support, comfort, fit and beauty. We offer sizes ranging from 34C to 46H to turn women`s wardrobe needs into reality.

About PVH Corp.
With a heritage going back over 130 years, PVH Corp. has excelled at growing brands and businesses with rich American heritages, becoming one of the largest apparel companies in the world. We have over 30,000 associates operating in over 40 countries with over $8 billion in 2015 revenues. We own the iconic Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, Van Heusen, IZOD, ARROW, Speedo*, Warner’s and Olga brands and market a variety of goods under these and other nationally and internationally known owned and licensed brands.

*The Speedo brand is licensed for North America and the Caribbean in perpetuity from Speedo International, Ltd.

Press Contact:

Noelle Nocera
Kaplow Communications
(212) 221-1713, nnocera@kaplow.com

Investors Contact:

Dana Perlman
PVH
(212) 381-3502
danaperlman@pvh.com

SOURCE: PVH Corp.

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Office Depot declares quarterly cash dividend of $0.025 per share

BOCA RATON, Fla., 2016-Aug-09 — /EPR Retail News/ — Office Depot, Inc. (NASDAQ: ODP) announced that its Board of Directors declared a dividend of $0.025 per share ($0.10 per share on an annualized basis) on the common stock of the Company. The dividend is payable on September 15, 2016, to shareholders of record at the close of business on August 25, 2016.

Office Depot Chairman and CEO, Roland Smith, commented, “The initiation of a quarterly dividend reflects confidence in our ability to generate future cash flow, as well as our commitment to shareholder return. The annualized dividend of $0.10 per share represents an approximate 3% yield based on the $3.29 closing stock price on August 2, 2016.”

About Office Depot, Inc.
Office Depot, Inc. is a leading global provider of products, services, and solutions for every workplace – whether your workplace is an office, home, school or car.

Office Depot, Inc. is a resource and a catalyst to help customers work better. We are a single source for everything customers need to be more productive, including the latest technology, core office supplies, print and document services, business services, facilities products, furniture, and school essentials.

The Company has annual sales of approximately $14 billion, employs approximately 49,000 associates, and serves consumers and businesses in 59 countries with approximately 1,800 retail stores, award-winning e-commerce sites and a dedicated business-to-business sales organization – all delivered through a global network of wholly owned operations, franchisees, licensees and alliance partners. The Company operates under several banner brands including Office Depot, OfficeMax, Grand & Toy, and Viking. The company’s portfolio of exclusive product brands include TUL, Foray, Brenton Studio, Ativa, WorkPro, Realspace and HighMark.

Office Depot, Inc.’s common stock is listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol “ODP”. Additional press information can be found at:  http://news.officedepot.com .

FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS
This communication may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including but not limited to statements regarding the size and timing of future dividends. These statements or disclosures may discuss goals, intentions and expectations as to future trends, plans, events, results of operations or financial condition, or state other information relating to, among other things, Office Depot, based on current beliefs and assumptions made by, and information currently available to, management. Forward-looking statements generally will be accompanied by words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “plan,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “forecast,” “guidance,” “intend,” “may,” “possible,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “propose” or other similar words, phrases or expressions, or other variations of such words. These forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties, many of which are outside of Office Depot’s control. There can be no assurances that Office Depot will realize these expectations or that these beliefs will prove correct, and therefore investors and stockholders should not place undue reliance on such statements.

Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements are described in Office Depot’s Annual Reports on Form 10-K, as amended, and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Office Depot does not assume any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements.

All trademarks, service marks and trade names of Office Depot, Inc. and OfficeMax Incorporated used herein are trademarks or registered trademarks of Office Depot, Inc. and OfficeMax Incorporated, respectively. Any other product or company names mentioned herein are the trademarks of their respective owners.

Contact:

Richard Leland
561-438-3796
Investor Relations
Richard.Leland@officedepot.com

Karen Denning
630-438-7445
Media Relations
Karen.Denning@officedepot.com

Source: Office Depot, Inc.

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Office Depot to call its 9.75% Senior Secured Notes due 2019 for redemption on September 15, 2016

BOCA RATON, Fla, 2016-Aug-09 — /EPR Retail News/ — Office Depot, Inc. (NASDAQ: ODP) today announced it intends to call its 9.75% Senior Secured Notes due 2019 (the “Notes”) for redemption on September 15, 2016. The Notes will be redeemed for cash at a price equal to 104.875% of the principal amount of the Notes plus accrued and unpaid interest up to, but excluding, the redemption date (the “Redemption Price”). The aggregate principal outstanding of the Notes is $250,000,000.

From the redemption date forward, the Notes will no longer be deemed outstanding, interest will no longer accrue and holders will have no rights other than the right to receive the Redemption Price, without interest, upon surrender of the Notes. Payment of the Redemption Price will be made only upon presentation and surrender of the Notes to U.S. Bank, National Association, the trustee and paying agent, during its business hours at the address specified in the Notice of Redemption. The Notice of Redemption is expected to be mailed to holders of the Notes on or about August 10, 2016.

Questions regarding the Notice of Redemption should be directed to U.S. Bank, National Association, Bondholder Services at 1-800-934-6802 between the hours of 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM CST Monday through Friday, or visit their website at www.usbank.com/corporatetrust and click on the “Bondholder Information” link.

This press release is not an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities.

About Office Depot, Inc.
Office Depot, Inc. is a leading global provider of products, services, and solutions for every workplace – whether your workplace is an office, home, school or car.

Office Depot, Inc. is a resource and a catalyst to help customers work better. We are a single source for everything customers need to be more productive, including the latest technology, core office supplies, print and document services, business services, facilities products, furniture, and school essentials.

The Company has annual sales of approximately $14 billion, employs approximately 49,000 associates, and serves consumers and businesses in 59 countries with approximately 1,800 retail stores, award-winning e-commerce sites and a dedicated business-to-business sales organization – all delivered through a global network of wholly owned operations, franchisees, licensees and alliance partners. The Company operates under several banner brands including Office Depot, OfficeMax, Grand & Toy, and Viking. The company’s portfolio of exclusive product brands include TUL, Foray, Brenton Studio, Ativa, WorkPro, Realspace and HighMark.

Office Depot, Inc.’s common stock is listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol “ODP”. Additional press information can be found at:  http://news.officedepot.com .

All trademarks, service marks and trade names of Office Depot, Inc. and OfficeMax Incorporated used herein are trademarks or registered trademarks of Office Depot, Inc. and OfficeMax Incorporated, respectively. Any other product or company names mentioned herein are the trademarks of their respective owners.

Contact:

Richard Leland
561-438-3796
Investor Relations
Richard.Leland@officedepot.com

Karen Denning
630-438-7445
Media Relations
Karen.Denning@officedepot.com

Source: Office Depot, Inc.

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SPAR Installation & Assembly to provide furniture and equipment assembly services for ATGStores.com customers

WHITE PLAINS, N.Y., 2016-Aug-09 — /EPR Retail News/ — SPAR Group, Inc. (“SPAR”), a leading global supplier of merchandising and other retail services, is happy to announce that it will be partnering with leading online home furnishings company ATGStores.com, a Lowe’s company since 2011, to provide in-home, in-office and on-site assembly services of furniture and equipment to ATGStores.com customers through its SPAR Installation & Assembly division.

ATGStores.com customers will be able to either bundle the assembly service with their purchase or order it separately for items they already own. SPAR Assembly & Installation provides flexible scheduling within two days of delivery for most orders with service performed by professional, friendly, fully insured technicians.

The assembly service is another way for ATGStores.com to advance its position as an online home furnishings retailer that offers more personalized service options to pair with its curated product selection. Stated ATGStores.com president Michelle Newbery, “We want our customers to know ATGStores.com can provide everything they might need for their homes, from professional interior design consultation all the way through to assembly and installation. We’ve always been very proud of our product line, and now we have great services to complement it.”

Newbery went on to say that, “SPAR is a respected service provider in the furniture assembly industry and we’re excited to offer their expertise to our customers to help them take their projects from concept to completion.”

SPAR VP of Operations and Business Development Mike Florkowski voiced his excitement at helping ATGStores.com enhance the customer experience. “ATGStores.com has worked hard at developing a great online customer shopping experience. We understand the importance of continuing that experience with great service after the customer gets the product home, and are dedicated to doing so, as we have for over 25 years with a high level of customer satisfaction.”

About SPAR Group, Inc.
SPAR Group, Inc. is a diversified international merchandising and marketing services company and provides a broad array of services worldwide to help companies improve their sales, operating efficiency and profits at retail locations. SPAR provides merchandising and other marketing services to manufacturers, distributors and retailers worldwide, primarily in grocery, drug, big box, discount/dollar, office supercenter, warehouse/club, specialty, pet, department, and convenience/gas channels. Additional services include new store sets and remodels, price and compliance audits, fixture/display installation and service, furniture and equipment assembly in stores, offices and homes, assisted sales, product demonstrations, and Click & Collect services. SPAR provides these services in the U.S. and across the globe. SPAR started as a sales promotion analysis company in 1967, has been supplying merchandising and other retail services in the U.S. since 1979, and internationally since acquiring its first international subsidiary in Japan in 2001. SPAR currently does business in 9 countries that encompass approximately 50% of the total world population through its operations in the United States, Canada, China, Australia, India, Japan, Mexico, South Africa and Turkey. For more information, please visit SPAR Group’s website at www.sparinc.com.

About ATGStores.com
ATGStores.com, a Lowe’s company since 2011, offers high-touch customer care, a curated selection of high-quality home furnishings, interior design services and professional installation for a seamless shopping experience, from concept to completion. The company features more than one million products in a host of different categories, from lighting and furniture to hardware and decor.

To learn more, visit ATGStores.com or email questions to press@atgstores.com

For more information, contact: pressinquiries@sparinc.com

Source: SPAR Group, Inc.

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SpartanNash Company to announce its 2Q FY2016 financial results on August 17, 2016

Byron Center, MI, 2016-Aug-09 — /EPR Retail News/ — SpartanNash Company (the “Company”) (Nasdaq: SPTN) will announce its second quarter fiscal year 2016 financial results after the stock market close on Wednesday, August 17, 2016.

The Company will host a conference call to discuss these results with additional comments and details on Thursday, August 18, 2016 at 9:00 a.m. ET. The call will be broadcast live over the Internet hosted at SpartanNash’s website at www.spartannash.com/webcasts under the “Investor Relations” section and will remain available for replay on the Company’s website for approximately ten days.

About SpartanNash
SpartanNash (SPTN) is a Fortune 400 company and the leading distributor serving U.S. military commissaries and exchanges in the world, in terms of revenue. The Company’s core businesses include distributing grocery products to military commissaries and exchanges and independent and Company-owned retail stores located in 47 states and the District of Columbia, Europe, Cuba, Puerto Rico, Bahrain and Egypt. SpartanNash currently operates 160 supermarkets, primarily under the banners of Family Fare Supermarkets,Family Fresh Markets, D&W Fresh Markets, and Sun Mart.

Investor Contact:
Chris Meyers
616-878-8023
Executive Vice President & CFO

Media Contact:
Meredith Gremel
616-878-2830
Vice President Corporate Affairs and Communications

Source: SpartanNash

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SpartanNash Direct launches Your Dollars™ program to support local charities

Byron Center, MI, 2016-Aug-09 — /EPR Retail News/ — Store guests will soon have a new way to support their favorite local charities, schools and other nonprofit organizations through the SpartanNash program, Direct Your Dollars™. The receipt-based program makes it easier than ever for eligible nonprofit organizations to earn $1,000.

Direct Your Dollars launched on Aug. 1 in more than 160 SpartanNash-owned retail stores and fuel centers in nine states.

“Our Direct Your Dollars™ program is built on the concept of shopping with purpose, meaning our store guests can use their purchasing power to support their favorite nonprofits,” said Dennis Eidson, president and CEO of SpartanNash. “The Direct Your Dollars program allows local nonprofit organizations to turn receipts into dollars for computers, textbooks, field trips, athletic and band equipment, food and meal supplies and much more – just by shopping at any one of our retail stores. For many, it’s a familiar program with a new name, and we’re excited to expand our corporate responsibility to our communities through Direct Your Dollars.”

Direct Your Dollars™ replaces the Support Our Schools program offered in some of the company’s west stores and the Michigan-based Cash for Class program.

For store guests, earning money through the Direct Your Dollars program is as easy as 1, 2, 3.

  1. Shop any of SpartanNash’s corporate-owned stores.
  2. Turn in your store receipts to your favorite participating nonprofit organization – and encourage your family and friends to do the same.
  3. When the participating nonprofit collects $150,000 in eligible receipts, they can turn them in for a $1,000 check from SpartanNash.

Participating groups must have a valid 501(c)(3) determination to be eligible. Preschool and K-12 schools are eligible to participate, as well as school-sponsored groups and clubs. Faith-based and community service organizations can also participate in the Direct Your Dollars program.

A section titled “Direct Your Dollars” will be included on all receipts to make it easier for organizations to compute their Direct Your Dollars receipt totals. Some purchases are excluded from the Direct Your Dollars program, such as tobacco, postage, fuel, gift cards and lottery, and will not be included in the “Direct Your Dollars” tally.

Receipts from any SpartanNash-owned store – including Family Fare Supermarket, D&W Fresh Market, Family Fresh Market, Forest Hills Foods, VG’s, SunMart, Supermercado Nuestra Familia, Bag n Save, No Frills, Prairie Market, Pick N Save, Germantown Fresh Market, Dillonvalle IGA, Econofoods, Dan’s Supermarket and ValuLand – will be accepted and must total $150,000 before a check will be issued.

Organizations interested in participating in the Direct Your Dollars program can visit SpartanNash.com/DirectYourDollars for promotional materials, receipt submission forms and more.

About SpartanNash
SpartanNash (Nasdaq: SPTN) is a Fortune 400 company and the leading food distributor serving U.S. military commissaries and exchanges in the world, in terms of revenue. The Company’s core businesses include distributing food to military commissaries and exchanges and independent and corporate-owned retail stores located in 47 states and the District of Columbia, Europe, Cuba, Puerto Rico, Bahrain and Egypt. SpartanNash currently operates 160 supermarkets, primarily under the banners of Family Fare Supermarkets, Family Fresh Markets, D&W Fresh Markets, Econofoods, and SunMart.

Contact:

Meredith Gremel
Vice President
Corporate Affairs & Communications
616-878-2830

Source: SpartanNash

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McDonald’s Olympics Kids celebrated the spirit of friendship at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games Opening Ceremony

McDonald's Olympics Kids celebrated the spirit of friendship at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games Opening Ceremony
McDonald’s Olympics Kids celebrated the spirit of friendship at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games Opening Ceremony

 

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL, 2016-Aug-09 — /EPR Retail News/ — McDonald’s is honoring the spirit of friendship that is at the heart of the Olympic values by celebrating nearly 100 kids from around the world with a once-in-a-lifetime, and first-ever, opportunity to participate in an Opening Ceremony at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games. The McDonald’s Olympics Kids will walk in the Parade of Nations at Rio’s famed Maracanã Stadium in front of 80,000 live spectators and billions of television viewers worldwide.

McDonald’s Olympics Kids from 20 countries around the world, represent friendship and unity for children worldwide which are key values of the Olympic Games. The flag bearer of each of the 207 country athlete delegations will be accompanied by a McDonald’s Olympics Kid.

In addition to walking in the Parade of Nations, the McDonald’s Olympics Kids are experiencing Olympic events and enjoying activities around Rio. Nearly 100 kids, aged 8 to 12 years old, will be participating from 20 countries around the world, including: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, China, Costa Rica, France, Germany, Guadeloupe, Indonesia, Japan, Martinique, Mexico, Panama, Puerto Rico, South Korea, Thailand, U.K., and U.S. Each country held their own local promotion to select kids to represent their respective country.

The McDonald’s Olympics Kids from the U.S. and Canada were selected by Ronald McDonald House Charities as having overcome great adversity and McDonald’s is proud to celebrate these remarkable kids and their commitment to friendship.

Also joining the McDonald’s Olympics Kids program are children of Olympic gold medal winners who are McDonald’s Athlete Ambassadors for the Rio 2016 Games: son of gymnasts Bart Conner and Nadia Comaneci, daughter of swimmer Dara Torres, son and daughter of soccer player Julie Foudy, daughter of swimmer Susie O’Neill, son of judo athlete Tadahiro Nomura and daughter of volleyball player Dante Guimarães Santos do Amaral.

About McDonald’s and the Olympic Games
McDonald’s commitment to the Olympic Movement began in 1968, when the company airlifted hamburgers to U.S. athletes in Grenoble, France, after they reported being homesick for McDonald’s food. Since then, the company has served its menu of choice and variety to millions of athletes, their coaches, families and fans. Rio 2016 marks the 11th consecutive Games with McDonald’s as the Official Partner, serving Olympic athletes and fans at the Games.

About McDonald’s
McDonald’s is the world’s leading global foodservice retailer with approximately 35,000 locations serving customers in more than 100 countries each day. More than 80 percent of McDonald’s restaurants worldwide are owned and operated by independent local men and women. To learn more about the company, please visit www.aboutmcdonalds.com and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

CONTACTS:

David Zlotnik
McDonald’s
+1 847-502-0390
david.zlotnik@U.S.mcd.com
Twitter: @McDonaldsCorp

Lizzie Roscoe
McDonald’s
+1 630-272-6042
lizzie.roscoe@us.mcd.com
Twitter: @McDonaldsCorp

Source: McDonalds Corp.

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Amazon showcases its first ever branded air cargo plane during Seafair’s Air Show

SEATTLE, 2016-Aug-09 — /EPR Retail News/ — Amazon today (Aug. 5, 2016) is showcasing its first ever branded air cargo plane during Seafair’s Air Show, an annual community celebration taking place in Amazon’s hometown of Seattle. The Boeing 767-300, operated by Amazon’s air cargo provider Atlas Air, is flying in the Seafair Air Show to thousands of Seattle residents and Amazon employees.

“Creating an air transportation network is expanding our capacity to ensure great delivery speeds for our Prime members for years to come,” said Dave Clark, Amazon’s senior vice president of worldwide operations. “I cannot imagine a better way to celebrate the inaugural flight than in our hometown at Seafair alongside Amazon employees and Seattle residents.”

The airplane, named Amazon One, is one of 40 that Amazon has agreed to lease through air cargo partners Atlas Air and ATSG. There are currently 11 dedicated airplanes flying for Amazon as of today with additional airplanes rolling out over time. In an ode to its Prime members, Amazon’s first airplane in its dedicated fleet features a tail number made up of a Prime number.

In the last year, Amazon has launched several initiatives to ensure great delivery speeds and supply chain capacity for its customers, including Amazon Flex, the company’s mobile application that allows individuals to sign-up, be vetted and begin delivering for Amazon, a dedicated network of 4,000 trailers to increase trucking capacity and, now, the network of air cargo planes. These efforts join Amazon’s robust worldwide network of more than 125 fulfillment centers and over 20 sortation centers where the company uses high-end algorithms, robotics, machine learning and other technological innovations to increase delivery speeds for customers. Amazon is now bringing the same technological expertise to efforts in the transportation space to increase shipping capacity for its customers. View more video about Amazon One’s launch here.

About Amazon
Amazon is guided by four principles: customer obsession rather than competitor focus, passion for invention, commitment to operational excellence, and long-term thinking. Customer reviews, 1-Click shopping, personalized recommendations, Prime Fulfillment by Amazon, AWS, Kindle Direct Publishing, Kindle, Fire tablets, Fire TV, Amazon Echo, and Alexa are some of the products and services pioneered by Amazon. For more information, visit www.amazon.com/about.

Media Hotline:

206-266-7180
Amazon-pr@amazon.com
www.amazon.com/pr

Source: Amazon.com, Inc.

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Admiral range for men launches new Performance collection at Sainsbury’s

Admiral range for men launches new Performance collection at Sainsbury’s
Admiral range for men launches new Performance collection at Sainsbury’s

 

London, 2016-Aug-09 — /EPR Retail News/ — Sainsbury’s deal to sell the iconic Admiral casual menswear brand reached its first birthday last month. The capsule autumn/winter range was originally available in 100 Sainsbury’s stores but quickly expanded to 170 stores due to its fashion appeal and customer demand.

  • Admiral Performance launched this week
  • The Admiral menswear range is now sold in 170 stores, up from 100 at launch one year ago
  • Shift in shopping behaviour – men are buying more clothes for themselves

The Admiral range is also available online for home delivery or collection in over 700 stores nationwide, and fits well with the retailer’s strategy of growing its non-food business, maximising retail space and offering customers great choice across quality products that are also great value.Sainsbury’s is now set to launch a new Admiral range for men – the Admiral Performance collection.

Just in time for the Summer of Sport, Admiral Performance wear will appeal to men who want to embrace a healthier, more active lifestyle and look good while at the same time.It is a true performance range, using ultra stretch, lightweight fabrics that wick away sweat to keep wearers comfortable.  It is treated with an antibacterial finish and is designed to fit well and adjust to the body during high-intensity exercise.

James Brown, director of non-food at Sainsbury’s said, “The Admiral brand is associated with a sporty, on-trend casual look, and the success of our Admiral launch last year has paved the way for the brand’s development into more functional performance wear.  The activewear market is growing fast so we’re delighted to add Admiral Performance to our Admiral Gold and Admiral Retro collections.”

He added, “Shopping for clothing in supermarkets has become firmly established, and our strategy of offering customers high street style at supermarket prices in an attractive, department store-style setting has helped us to increase our market share.  Eight million customers buy clothing from us and it’s heading towards a £1bn business.  We are now the sixth largest clothing retailer by volume, up from seventh place last year.”

John Carolan, head of menswear and childrenswear buying, said “The launch of Admiral last year was a real turning point.  It attracted men to have a look at what we offer, and they liked what they saw.  We also saw a ‘halo’ effect on the rest of the range, with Tu menswear increasing in market share. In fact, we are growing sales and market share across all our clothing areas.”

“Much of the interest in sportswear has been driven by the fact that it is so fashionable.  Our Admiral Performance wear is functional as well as on-trend, and it feeds in to the whole athleisure concept.  And of course, gym memberships are rising as more people take to the treadmill.”

Over the last few years there has been a radical shift in menswear retailing.  Gone are the days when the majority of menswear was bought by women – the ratio has now turned on its head, with 54% of Sainsbury’s menswear now bought by men for themselves, an increase of 23% over two years.

John added, “Men now take a real interest in the clothes they wear.  This is driven by social media and the internet which have given men the confidence to know what to buy to be fashionable and to look good.  It also helps that men can now buy Sainsbury’s clothing on a laptop, tablet or mobile phone and choose where they want it delivered.”

Contact:
Switchboard: 020 7695 6000

Source: Sainsbury

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Sainsbury’s proudly sponsored Leeds LGBT Pride Parade

Sainsbury’s proudly sponsored Leeds LGBT Pride Parade
Sainsbury’s proudly sponsored Leeds LGBT Pride Parade

 

London, 2016-Aug-09 — /EPR Retail News/ — This Sunday (7 August), over four hundred Sainsbury’s colleagues will turn out to support Leeds LGBT Pride Parade which begins at noon at the Sainsbury’s sponsored Parade Stage.

  • Hundreds of Sainsbury’s colleagues to attend
  • Guest appearance from Tom Rickels, Sainsbury’s colleague who appeared on ‘The Voice UK’

Tom Rickels, a Sainsbury’s fishmonger who appeared on this year’s series of ‘The Voice UK’ will be one of the opening acts performing live on the Parade Stage.

Talking about the event Tom said: “I’m incredibly proud to be singing at this event. It’s fantastic to know that I will be supported by over 400 Sainsbury’s colleagues who are coming to the event. That’s more than double the number who went last year and we’re looking forward to turning Leeds orange with our t-shirts.”

Jemma Kameen, Sainsbury’s Headingley Store Manager, has co-ordinated Sainsbury’s support for Leeds Pride, and was last year nominated for the Financial Times Outstanding LGBT Young Leader, and was shortlisted for the Yorkshire Women of Achievement Award.

Commenting on the event Jemma said: “We’re really proud to be sponsoring Leeds Pride again. This year’s event promises to be even bigger and better than last year.

“Sainsbury’s ambition is to be the most trusted retailer where people love to work and shop and being inclusive plays a really important part in this. We want to create an environment of equal opportunities in which we can all be the best we can be.”

Sainsbury’s will be releasing 49 bouquets of biodegradable rainbow balloons in memory of the 49 victims of the Orlando shootings.

Contact:
Switchboard: 020 7695 6000

Source: Sainsbury

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K-food stores report on its food wastage reduction programme

HELSINKI, 2016-Aug-09 — /EPR Retail News/ — K-food stores take food wastage and its reduction seriously. Around 90% of K-food stores cooperate with a local charity operator. In addition, Kesko takes part in a cooperation where biogas produced from biowaste collected from retail stores is utilised as energy. The objective of Kesko’s responsibility programme is to reduce the food wastage generated by K-food stores by 10% by 2020.

Numerous K-food retailers donate food for charity. Based on an inquiry among K-food retailers conducted in spring 2016, around 90% of K-food stores has cooperation with some local charity operator. Around 500 K-retailers answered the inquiry. Wastage food is donated to local charitable organisations, which distribute it as food aid to those in need.

It would be madness to throw away edible food. At my store, we started giving food to charity as many as 16 years ago. Every weekday morning, volunteers from the Espoonlahti parish collect food products approaching their sell-by dates from Seilori and distribute them to those in need, says K-supermarket Seilori’s retailer Heimo Välinen.

Kesko, Gasum, Myllyn Paras and Wursti have entered into a cooperation where biogas produced from biowaste collected from retail stores is utilized as energy in the manufacture of new Pirkka products. Recycling waste into biogas and utilizing this energy in the manufacturing of Pirkka products will help cut annual carbon dioxide emissions by 380 tonnes.

The trading sector has to operate responsibly and the cooperation with Gasum is one way of reducing the load on the environment. Thanks to the cooperation, our customers can make responsible choices by choosing Pirkka products manufactured using biogas, says K-supermarket Torpparinmäki retailer Teemu Tikkala.

Forecast based order system helps prevent wastage
The most effective wastage management tools are the forecasting and order systems of the trading sector which have been actively developed in recent years. The systems help retailers forecast demand more accurately than before which enables them to order the right quantities of food.

Moreover, efficient transport solutions help goods to be delivered on schedule and products to arrive fresh to stores. Wastage can also be cut by lowering the prices of items approaching their sell-by dates.

Store personnel are actively trained in food wastage management. The liberalisation of opening hours has also reduced wastage, says Kesko’s Sustainability Manager Timo Jäske.

As a member of the Finnish Grocery Trade Association the K-Group is also committed to a project with the Ministry of the Environment, the Ministry of Employment and the Economy, and Motiva to find ways to further reduce the amount of food and packaging waste generated by retail stores, says Jäske.

Engaging customers in wastage prevention
Reducing food wastage is important to K-food stores, because food wastage is a commercial loss. During the past decade, some K-food stores have succeeded in cutting the amount of food wastage by as much as 50%.

The trading sector alone is not responsible for reducing food wastage, all parties have to contribute. Both the agricultural industry, the food manufacturing industry, the trading sector and customers play a part and are responsible for reducing wastage, says retailer Välinen.

Approximately 18% of the total food wastage in the food chain is attributable to the trading sector. But around 35% of food wastage is generated by households. Kesko aims to engage households in the prevention of food wastage. The K-ruoka mobile app provides an easy way to make shopping lists, which helps plan your food shopping better. K‑ruoka.fi:, for its part, includes recipes for food waste.

Once again this autumn, K-food stores and Kesko will take part in the Consumer Association’s Wastage Week campaign running from 29 August to 4 September 2016. The aim of this fourth Wastage Week is to encourage participation in food wastage reduction and to increase the appreciation of food. Kesko will have a stand at the Wastage Festival culminating the campaign on 3 – 4 September and demonstrate how household food wastage is turned into tasty meals.

K-food retailers, with whom the Kesko grocery trade applies the chain business model, are responsible for customer satisfaction at more than 900 K-food stores. K-food store chains are K-citymarket, K-supermarket and K-Market. K-food stores are the most responsible in the world in their sector. Their strengths also include superior fresh food departments, competent service, the widest selections, Finnish products and Pirkka. K-food stores provide both high quality and affordable prices.

Further information:

Timo Jäske
Sustainability Manager
Kesko grocery trade
tel. +358 50 529 2028

Heimo Välinen
retailer, K-supermarket Seilori
tel. +358 400 506 699

Teemu Tikkala
retailer, K-supermarket Torpparinmäki
tel. +358 50 502 2060

Source: Kesko

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Sonic Corp. Board approves continuation of its quarterly cash dividend program

OKLAHOMA CITY, 2016-Aug-09 — /EPR Retail News/ — Sonic Corp. (NASDAQ:SONC), the nation’s largest chain of drive-in restaurants, today announced that its Board of Directors has approved the continuation of the Company’s quarterly cash dividend program. Beginning in the first fiscal quarter of 2017, the Company expects to declare a quarterly dividend of $0.14 per share of common stock, which represents an increase of 27% from the current quarterly dividend of $0.11 per share.

“Our multi-layered growth strategy continues to generate significant cash to drive shareholder value,” said Cliff Hudson, Sonic Corp. CEO. “Over the past three fiscal years, we have returned in excess of $370 million to shareholders through the combination of dividend payments and the repurchase of 13 million shares of our common stock, or approximately 23% of our outstanding shares. We believe the dividend program complements our repurchase program, providing an additional lever to deliver value to shareholders. We remain confident in the strength of the brand and in the ability of our business model to continue to drive strong future returns.”

The Company completed its fiscal 2016 share repurchase program in July, spending $126 million during the fiscal year to repurchase more than 4.4 million shares of its common stock. As previously announced, the Board of Directors has authorized an additional $155 million repurchase program through the end of fiscal 2017. Payment of a dividend of $0.11 per share is set for August 19, 2016 to shareholders of record as of the close of business on August 10, 2016.

Future declaration of quarterly dividends and the establishment of future record and payment dates are subject to the final determination of the company’s Board of Directors.

About Sonic
SONIC, America’s Drive-In is the nation’s largest drive-in restaurant chain serving more than 3 million customers every day. Nearly 90 percent of SONIC’s 3,500 drive-in locations are owned and operated by local business men and women. Over more than 60 years, SONIC has delighted guests with signature menu items, more than 1.3 million drink combinations and friendly service by iconic Carhops. Since the 2009 launch of SONIC’s Limeades for Learning philanthropic campaign in partnership with DonorsChoose.org, SONIC has donated more than $6 million to public school teachers nationwide to fund essential learning materials and innovative teaching resources to inspire creativity and learning in today’s youth. To learn more about Sonic Corp. (NASDAQ/NM: SONC), please visit sonicdrivein.com and please visit or follow us on Facebook and Twitter. To learn more about SONIC’s Limeades for Learning initiative, please visit Limeadesforlearning.com.

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. Forward-looking statements reflect management’s expectations regarding future events and operating performance and speak only as of the date hereof. These forward-looking statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in, or underlying, these forward-looking statements are detailed in the company’s annual and quarterly report filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The company undertakes no obligation to publicly release revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unforeseen events, except as required to be reported under the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Contact:
Corey Horsch
Vice President, Investor Relations
and Treasurer
(405) 225-4800

Source: Sonic Corp.

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US Foods announces fall Food Fanatics Live™ tour schedule and launches latest issue of Food Fanatics magazine

Rosemont, Ill, 2016-Aug-09 — /EPR Retail News/ — Today (Aug 04, 2016 ), US Foods announced its fall Food Fanatics Live™ tour schedule, which will bring this one-of-a-kind culinary experience to ten new cities, including Cleveland, Denver, Memphis and Houston. This announcement coincides with the launch of the latest issue of Food Fanatics magazine which will soon be making its way into the hands of more than 130,000 chefs, restaurant owners and foodservice operators.

“More than 21,000 food and restaurant industry professionals attended a Food Fanatics LIVE event this year, taking with them inspiration, ideas and solutions for improving their business,” said Marshall Warkentin, senior vice president, Marketing, US Foods. “Whether it’s through the educational sessions and live demos at our events, working in the kitchen with our Food Fanatics Chefs or building off the ideas and insights in the Food Fanatics magazine, we have something to help all our customers inspire their menus, attract more diners and optimize their operations.”

Food Fanatics Live™
Beginning on August 10 in Daytona Beach, Fla, US Foods will bring its Food Fanatics Live™ event to ten new cities. Making a stop in Cleveland, St. Louis, Denver, Virginia, Memphis, Houston, Kansas City, Columbia and South Florida, the highly anticipated culinary showcase will feature live stage demos, industry leading technology solutions to help restaurant operators do everything from managing costs to placing orders, and US Foods’ Exclusive Brands products.  From Stock Yards® to Rykoff Sexton® and Metro Deli® to Chef’s Line®, attendees will discover fresh produce, the best equipment and supplies and more items to cover all of a restaurant’s front and back of the house needs.”

Every Food Fanatics Live™ event includes access to two key US Foods resources – the US Foods Restaurant Operations Consultants and the Food Fanatics Chefs. The Restaurant Operations Consultants are on-hand to talk about business solutions and the Food Fanatics Chefs can be found in the interactive kitchen showcasing the latest culinary trends and discussing how to keep menus fresh.

Attendees can download the new Food Fanatics Live app to view the stage schedule, scan QR codes at each booth, access recipes and product information, and enter to win prizes, post on social and more!  Registration for all events is now open on foodfanatics.com/events.

Food Fanatics Magazine
The fall edition of the Pearl Award winning magazine is available on August 15 and explores the most buzzworthy trends in the industry, such as the rise of meatless meals and the growing debate on tipping. Articles also highlight modern day culinary fusion, how better branding can help restaurants stand apart from the crowd and what a dream staff looks like in a restaurant and how readers can build theirs. All these articles and more can be found on the new and improved foodfanatics.com.

To learn more about the Food Fanatics events, chefs and magazine, visit foodfanatics.com. You can also join the Food Fanatics movement on social media. Like us on Facebook @usfoodfanatics, follow us on Twitter @foodfanatics and Instagram @food.fanatics and watch our chefs in action on YouTube.

About US Foods
US Foods is one of America’s great food companies and a leading foodservice distributor, partnering with approximately 250,000 chefs, restaurateurs and foodservice operators to help their businesses succeed. With nearly 25,000 employees and more than 60 locations, US Foods provides its customers with a broad and innovative food offering and a comprehensive suite of e-commerce, technology and business solutions. US Foods is headquartered in Rosemont, Ill. and generates approximately $23 billion in annual revenue. Discover more at www.usfoods.com.

Contact:

Lisa Lecas
Corporate Communications, US Foods
Office: 847-720-8243
Lisa.Lecas@usfoods.com

Source: US Foods

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NACS partners with REDTAIL to offer Background Check program

ALEXANDRIA, VA, 2016-Aug-09 — /EPR Retail News/ — NACS has partnered with REDTAIL to offer the NACS Background Check program. The REDTAIL program incorporates award-winning background screening services from SecurTest and patented iReviewNow technology, offering an FCRA-compliant and accurate background screening solution.

The NACS Background Check Program offers access to a unique background screening solution with benefits, including:

  • Compliance with FCRA and EEOC laws and regulations
  • Fast and easy-to-access results
  • Full transparency for the applicant, reducing the risk of potential costly litigation
  • Access to the most Accuratized® background reports

In 2015, the industry turnover rate for convenience store sales associates was 95%, according to NACS State of the Industry data. “It’s no surprise that hiring and retaining high performing employees is a serious challenge for the industry,” said Doug Spencer, NACS director of products and services. “One of the best ways to prevent turnover is to make the right hire—and that starts with a reputable, comprehensive background check.”

In 2012 and 2013, the REDTAIL and SecurTest solution was named the No. 1 background screening provider by HRO Today. REDTAIL and SecurTest solutions are used by many federal, state and local government agencies along with commercial employers and retailers.

There is a range of options to choose from—making it easy for retailers to find a solution that fits their needs. Packages can be purchased immediately begin the background screening process for a single applicant, or you can create a long-term, customizable solution by speaking with a REDTAIL representative. NACS members receive a special discounted rate.

Founded in 1961 as the National Association of Convenience Stores, NACS (nacsonline.com) is the international association for convenience and fuel retailing. The U.S. convenience store industry, with more than 154,000 stores across the country, conducts 160 million transactions a day, sells 80% of the fuel purchased in the country and had total sales of $575 billion in 2015. NACS has 2,100 retail and 1,700 supplier member companies, which do business in nearly 50 countries.

Contact:
(703) 684-3600 (phone)
(703) 836-4564 (fax)

Source: NACS

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FOCUS Brands announces commitment to sourcing ingredients that contain only cage free eggs

ATLANTA , 2016-Aug-09 — /EPR Retail News/ — In response to a growing consumer sentiment towards cage free eggs and the adoption of this policy by several other food service companies, FOCUS Brands is joining forces with others in the industry and announcing its commitment to sourcing ingredients that contain only cage free eggs.

While not a large user of eggs or food items with egg as an ingredient, FOCUS Brands will work with its suppliers to ensure that all of its restaurant menu items will contain only cage free eggs by 2026.

“In addition to industry trends and the growing consumer preference for cage free eggs in other channels such as grocery, today we are casting our vote with consumers and will work toward meeting these new supply standards.” said Rich Kamph, Senior Vice President of FOCUS Brands Global Supply Chain.

About FOCUS Brands Inc.
Atlanta-based FOCUS Brands Inc., through its affiliate brands, is the franchisor and operator of more than 5,000 ice cream shoppes, bakeries, restaurants and cafes in the United States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and 60 foreign countries under the brand names Carvel®, Cinnabon®, Schlotzsky’s®, Moe’s Southwest Grill®, Auntie Anne’s®and McAlister’s Deli®, as well as Seattle’s Best Coffee® on certain military bases and in certain international markets.  Please visit www.focusbrands.com to learn more.

Contact:

Karlie Lahm
FOCUS Brands Inc.
404-705-4411
klahm@focusbrands.com

Source: FOCUS Brands Inc.

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The Whole Foods Market opens store in Santa Clara, California with the most environmentally-advanced refrigeration system in the U.S.

Emeryville, Calif., 2016-Aug-09 — /EPR Retail News/ — The Whole Foods Market store in Santa Clara, California opened last week with the most environmentally-advanced grocery retail refrigeration system in the U.S.

The installation comes at a time when California is looking to significantly reduce emissions of all greenhouse gases, including hydro fluoro carbons (HFCs) used in refrigeration systems. These “super pollutants” are potent short-lived climate pollutants and represent the fastest growing source of greenhouse gas emissions globally. The system used in the Santa Clara store eliminates all direct greenhouse gas emissions from refrigeration, thereby preventing the more than 7,000 metric tons of CO2 equivalent that a typical supermarket emits every year, which is more than the entire annual electricity use of over 1,000 homes.

“This is one of the most significant steps in decades in the quest for more sustainable refrigeration systems,” said Liz Whiteley, Executive Director of the North American Sustainable Refrigeration Council, an environmental non-profit organization based in California that strives to create a more sustainable future through natural refrigerants.

Whole Foods Market’s Hydrocarbon/CO2 Cascade System reduces the environmental impacts of refrigerants to near-zero, while greatly improving energy efficiency.  It uses propane, a natural refrigerant, to condense CO2 – the most eco-friendly refrigerant available – with a climate impact that is thousands of times less than typical HFCs. The CO2 is then piped through refrigeration systems to keep products cool. With high heat carrying properties, the use of CO2 reduces both the amount of refrigerant needed and the energy required to run refrigeration systems. Simultaneously, a heat reclaim system captures the heat generated by the system, and uses it to preheat water for the store’s later use, while also supplementing space heating. This allows the store to greatly reduce the amount of natural gas burned to heat water.

“Ultimately, the system uses the least possible amount of the most climate-friendly refrigerants in a format that both reduces the energy it takes to operate it and re-uses the heat its operation generates,” said Tristam Coffin, Sustainable Facilities Coordinator for Whole Foods Market Northern California. “There is precedent for this type of system in North America and Europe, but this is the first installation of the technology in the U.S. It’s a natural fit for Whole Foods Market to help design and launch it in California because we’ve invested in environmental advancements as an ongoing business practice.”

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recently banned the use of some common refrigerants such as R-404A and R-507A for new installations and retrofits, due to their climate impact. Also, in July the parties to the Montreal Protocol met to negotiate a worldwide plan to eliminate the use of other harmful refrigerant gases over time. California has been at the forefront of efforts to reduce refrigeration emissions, with rules in place that are being adopted nationally, and proposed efforts to further reduce emissions from these sources, in line with Governor Jerry Brown’s directive for the state to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions 40% below 1990 levels by 2030.

“Cutting emissions of potent short-lived climate pollutants is one of the most important and immediate steps we need to take to address climate change, while we continue our rapid transition to clean energy, clean fuels, and zero emission vehicles,” said Ryan McCarthy, Science and Technology Policy Advisor at the California Air Resources Board.  “Whole Foods is showing the path forward for this industry, and that fighting climate change is good for business.”

Whole Foods Market’s other environmental initiatives in Santa Clara and across the U.S. include: recycling construction waste, using reclaimed building materials, and sourcing wood from Forest Stewardship Council-certified sources. The company uses LED fixtures throughout the store to reduce energy load. In addition to occupancy sensors and sophisticated daylighting controls, the lighting system allows the local electric utility to dim sales floor lighting by 50% or switch off accent lighting during peak demand. Whole Foods Market also uses “no VOC” paint for better air quality, avoids floor finishes and, to the extent possible, ensures finishes come from recycled materials and are Greenguard certified.

Contact:

Beth Krauss
beth.krauss@wholefoods.com
510.428.7400

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The Whole Foods Market opens store in Santa Clara, California with the most environmentally-advanced refrigeration system in the U.S.
The Whole Foods Market opens store in Santa Clara, California with the most environmentally-advanced refrigeration system in the U.S.

 

Source: Whole Foods Market

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Co-op research reveals the average Brit now spends £19 on wine EVERY week

MANCHESTER, England, 2016-Aug-09 — /EPR Retail News/ — Brits are a nation of self-proclaimed “wine buffs” – with 88 per cent now claiming to be a true aficionado of vino, according to new research.

New research by Co-op has revealed 38 percent now believe they know their Sangiovese from their Syrah, going so far as to declare themselves “extremely knowledgeable” about wine.

And according to the study, the average Brit now spends £19 on wine EVERY week (£988 a year) – and is prepared to pay up to £11 pounds on a decent bottle.

However, almost half (41 percent) admitted they spend more on a bottle to take to a friend’s house in a bid to impress them with their wine knowledge.

Co-op has seen demand for fine wines surge in the last year, with sales of top claret Chateau Senejac soaring by 45%* on a like for like basis. Champagne has also seen a similar trend, with sales of Co-op’s own-label bottle increasing by 36% in the last 12 months.

When asked which countries produce the best wine – 33 percent of Brits still think the French make the best, followed by Italy (13 percent), Australia (13 percent) and Spain (8 percent).

The report also showed that 30 percent of Brits try to impress friends with their wine knowledge, with 7 out of 10 of those polled saying they are more interested in the subject now than they were 10 years ago.

Wine buyer for Co-op, Ben Cahill said:
“The survey has produced some really interesting insights into how we’ve become more interested in wine as a nation.”

“We’re certainly seeing this in store as shoppers take more time to choose their wine purchases, with price not always being the top factor. Instead where the wine comes from, quality, grape varieties and label design are just as important.”

“Figures show that more wine aficionados are making the switch to Co-op for their purchases than ever before, with figures highlighting that we are the top destination for last minute purchases – thanks to an increased availability of high-end wines and the introduction of more diverse and interesting bottles from some of the best winemakers from across the world.”

34 percent of people say their love of wine started after trying new wines on holiday, while nearly a third (27 percent) learnt from friends – and a further 21 percent say they have learnt about wines from TV cooking shows.

Over a quarter (28 percent) say they have bought an expensive bottle of wine to impress other guests at a dinner party, while 25 percent admit they have researched the wine they are serving to friends in a bid to impress.

Ben continued:
“Our love for good food has made wine pairing a crucial element of dinner party planning – especially if you want to impress, so it’s unsurprising Brits are embracing the concept of quality wines.” Meanwhile an unashamed one in ten Brits (11 percent) say they drink wine to look more sophisticated than they actually are.

Londoners are most likely to consider themselves wine buffs (32 percent), followed by the people of Birmingham (27 percent), Edinburgh (27 percent) and Leeds (26 percent).

Liverpudlians are the least likely to consider themselves knowledgeable about vino with just 18 percent describing themselves as wine lovers.

51 percent of Brits determine a good wine by the country of origin, while 45 percent of us judge the quality of wine by the price.

For any non-media enquiries please contact our main switchboard on 0161 834 1212. If you’re a customer with an enquiry, please call 0800 068 6727 or email us your enquiry

Source: Coop

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Paradies Lagardère opens Tampa Bay Times store in Tampa International Airport

ATLANTA, 2016-Aug-09 — /EPR Retail News/ — Paradies Lagardère, the North American travel retail and restaurateur leader, and the Tampa International Airport today hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the opening of a Tampa Bay Times-branded store in Airside E.

Founded in 1884, Tampa Bay Times is Florida’s largest newspaper and has won 10 Pulitzer Prizes and numerous other awards. Passengers will stay informed through large HD screens showcasing Tampa Bay Times’ website, which receives more than two million unique users monthly. The store will also offer various products, including snacks and beverages, as well as basic travel essentials and a large variety of products, souvenirs and gifts that represent Tampa and the regional area.

Quote:
“We’re thrilled to debut the Tampa Bay Times at the Tampa International Airport,” said Gregg Paradies, president and CEO of Paradies Lagardère. “Not only is it a great complement to the airport, but passengers visiting the airport will find everything they need in this store, as well as experience the Tampa Bay Times brand, which has had an amazing presence regionally and beyond for more than 130 years.”

Additional details:
Paradies Lagardère specializes in three key airport concessions areas: Travel Essentials, Specialty Retail and Food and Beverage. Within Travel Essentials and Specialty Retail, we offer a diverse mix of categories including fashion, luxury, electronics, convenience, sports, luggage, jewelry, and souvenirs. We also deliver high-end restaurants, quick-serve and casual restaurants, and quality bars, including local, national and international brands that provide travelers delicious dining options.

Paradies Lagardère delivers the very best solutions – a favorite local concept or a highly-desirable international brand – that exceeds expectations for our airport partners and travelers.

Contact:

Nicole V. Linton
Marketing Communications Manager
P: 404 494 3419
M: 470 455 1843
Email Nicole

Source: Paradies Lagardère

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The Danish Olympic team graced the opening ceremmony in Rio in style wearing JACK & JONES and VERO MODA outfits

The Danish Olympic team graced the opening ceremmony in Rio in style wearing JACK & JONES and VERO MODA outfits
The Danish Olympic team graced the opening ceremmony in Rio in style wearing JACK & JONES and VERO MODA outfits

 

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, 2016-Aug-09 — /EPR Retail News/ — Last night (05 august 2016), as the Danish Olympic team entered the Estadio do Maracanã in Rio, they did so in style wearing JACK & JONES and VERO MODA outfits.

At the opening ceremony, flagbearer and tennis star Caroline Wozniacki looked stunning, as she led the biggest Danish team of athletes since 1996 onto the world stage.

The Danish men were dressed in a stylish blue tailored suit by JACK & JONES Premium with a crisp red and white striped tee underneath to signal Denmark, while still keeping the formality level of an opening ceremony.

The women were dressed in a delicate red VERO MODA dress with a small jacket over the top to match the men’s blazers. The two outfits were further brought together by a unique Danish Rio 2016 emblem on the chest of each of the jackets.

As the athletes prepared in the Olympic village yesterday, employees from BESTSELLER helped out with the final touches and styling of the clothes before the big opening ceremony event., making sure that each athlete looked their very best.

ABOUT THE OLYMPIC PARTNERSHIP
BESTSELLER and its brands VERO MODA and JACK & JONES are proud sponsors of the Danish Olympic and Paralympic athletes. The partnership includes an entire wardrobe for the athletes including opening ceremony wear, casual wear, red and white “Denmark” wear, medal suits and formal reception wear.

Contact:

E-mail: contact@bestseller.com
Phone: + 45 99 42 32 00

Source: Bestseller

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