Daily Archives: November 5, 2016

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IKEA broke ground on its fifth Florida store; IKEA Jacksonville opens in Fall 2017

JACKSONVILLE, FL, 2016-Nov-05 — /EPR Retail News/ — With company representatives, Jacksonville Mayor Lenny Curry, Councilman Danny Becton, local officials and community leaders on-hand, IKEA, the world’s leading home furnishings retailer, today (11/03/2016) officially broke ground on its fifth Florida store. Until the future IKEA Jacksonville opens in Fall 2017, customers can shop at IKEA Orlando and IKEA Tampa or online at IKEA-USA.com. Two other IKEA stores are located in the South Florida cities of Sunrise and Sweetwater.

The 290,000-square-foot proposed IKEA store and its 950 parking spaces will be built on 25 acres along the northwestern corner of Interstate 295 and Gate Parkway, approximately 10 miles southeast of downtown Jacksonville. IKEA has contracted with Marcobay Construction, Inc. to build the project, and store plans reflect the same unique architectural design for which IKEA stores are known worldwide. In addition, IKEA will evaluate potential on-site power generation to complement its current U.S. goal of a renewable energy presence at nearly 90% of its U.S. locations.

“This location will help bring the unique IKEA family-friendly shopping experience closer to many Jacksonville-area customers who currently can only shop at IKEA stores elsewhere or online,” said Lars Petersson, IKEA U.S. president. “The store also will attract new customers from North Florida and Southern Georgia who value good design, good function and affordable prices, but have not had a chance yet to shop at IKEA.”

IKEA Jacksonville will feature nearly 10,000 exclusively designed items, 50 inspirational room-settings, three model home interiors, a supervised children’s play area, and a 325-seat restaurant serving Swedish specialties such as meatballs with lingonberries and salmon plates, as well as American dishes. Other family-friendly features include a ‘Children’s IKEA’ area in the Showroom, baby care rooms, play areas throughout the store, and preferred parking. In addition to the more than 500 jobs that are expected to be created during the construction phase, approximately 250 coworkers will join the IKEA family when the new store opens. IKEA Jacksonville also will provide significant annual sales and property tax revenue for local governments and schools.

Candidates interested in working at this employer of choice should begin looking online this spring at IKEA-USA.com, where they can apply for diverse positions available in home furnishings sales, interior decoration, customer service, safety and security, cashiers, maintenance, goods flow, receiving, warehouse and stock replenishment. Among its total coworkers, IKEA Jacksonville also will offer more than 50 food service opportunities in its Restaurant, Swedish Foodmarket, Café Bistro and coworker cafeteria.

Since its 1943 founding in Sweden, IKEA has offered home furnishings of good design and function at low prices so the majority of people can afford them. There are currently more than 380 IKEA stores in 48 countries, including 42 in the U.S. IKEA has been included in rankings of “Best Companies to Work For” and, as further investment in its coworkers, has raised its own minimum wage twice in two years. IKEA incorporates sustainability into day-to-day business and supports initiatives that benefit children and the environment. For more information see IKEA-USA.com, @IKEAUSA, @IKEAUSANews, or IKEAUSA on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram and Pinterest.

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

Source: IKEA

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IKEA to hire 140 additional coworkers for its relocated Burbank store scheduled to open Spring 2017

BURBANK, CA, 2016-Nov-05 — /EPR Retail News/ — IKEA, the world’s leading home furnishings retailer, today announced that recruitment of 140 additional coworkers is underway for its relocated Burbank store, on track to open Spring 2017 less than a mile from the current store. Candidates interested in working at the new IKEA Burbank should apply online at www.SeeACareerWithUs.com.

“We are thrilled that our move to a newer, roomier building allows us to offer 140 new jobs with limitless opportunity at a global company known for being a great place to work,” said Jeff O’Shaughnessy, store manager. “We believe it is as fun to work at IKEA as it is to shop at IKEA. So, we want coworkers to enjoy their job and contribute to the success of our new store.”

As the new IKEA Burbank progresses through the construction process, the store is looking to add 140 coworkers in a variety of positions including: home furnishings sales, customer service, cashiers, warehouse receiving, stock replenishment, and food service. Setting itself apart from other retailers, IKEA offers food service opportunities in its Restaurant, Swedish Foodmarket, Exit Bistro and coworker cafeteria; 35 more are needed for the new IKEA Burbank.Drawing from the company’s Swedish heritage, IKEA offers family-friendly initiatives and diverse workplace benefits including full medical/dental insurance to coworkers working 20 hours or more per week with eligibility for domestic partners and children. Other benefits include: vacation, paid maternity/paternity leave and paid time off for child adoption, tuition assistance, a bonus program, 401(k) matching, a pension plan, professional development, training and mentoring programs, free uniforms, and – of course – a discount for shopping at IKEA.

This year, IKEA was voted by coworkers as a Great Place to Work® on the ‘Fortune 20 Best Retail Workplaces’ list, received a 100% score on the Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s 2016 Corporate Equality Index, and was listed as #3 on Forbes’ list of “Happiest Retailers to Work For.” Previously, the company has been included in rankings of “Best Companies to Work For” and, as further investment in its coworkers, has raised its own minimum wage twice in two years.

IKEA BEGINS RECRUITMENT FOR RELOCATED BURBANK STORE
The organization puts career opportunity into the hands of the individual, encouraging coworkers to consider assignments within different functions, at other IKEA stores or even in other countries. IKEA prides itself on the fact an opportunity at IKEA truly can evolve into a career, potentially paving the way for a global experience as well. The company also places value and emphasis on coworkers’ personal lives and the importance of a work/life balance.

Under construction on 22 acres west of San Fernando Boulevard and south of Providencia Avenue, the future 456,000-square-foot new IKEA Burbank store, including 1,700 parking spaces, will feature nearly 10,000 exclusively designed items, 50 inspirational room-settings, three model home interiors, a supervised children’s play area, and a 600-seat restaurant serving Swedish specialties such as meatballs with lingonberries and salmon plates, as well as American dishes. Other family-friendly features include a ‘Children’s IKEA’ area in the Showroom, baby care rooms, play areas throughout the store, and preferred parking.

The New IKEA Burbank will generate even more tax revenue for state and local governments. When the new IKEA Burbank opens in Spring 2017, the future, roomier store will welcome the newly hired 140 coworkers to the IKEA family of 400 in Burbank, more than 14,000 in the United States and 155,000 globally. Until the new store opens, customers can continue to shop at the existing IKEA Burbank. (Nearby IKEA stores are in Carson, Costa Mesa and Covina.)

Since its 1943 founding in Sweden, IKEA has offered home furnishings of good design and function, at low prices so the majority of people can afford them. There are currently more than 380 IKEA stores in 48 countries, including 42 in the U.S. IKEA incorporates sustainability into day-to-day business and supports initiatives that benefit children and the environment. For more information see IKEA-USA.com, @IKEAUSANews, @IKEAUSA or IKEAUSA on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram and Pinterest.

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

Source: IKEA

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ALDI to support schools in creating healthier environments through Action for Healthy Kids® and National PTA Game On program

CHICAGO, 2016-Nov-05 — /EPR Retail News/ — Action for Healthy Kids® (AFHK) and National PTA have teamed up to support schools in creating healthier environments and help children and families develop healthy lifestyles. To kick off the program, 25 schools will receive Game On Grants for the 2016-2017 school year. The grants, funded by ALDI, aim to expand student access to inschool physical activity and healthy foods, improve knowledge and behaviors around exercise and nutrition, and provide funding and support to PTAs and other parent groups in engaging parents and families in these efforts both at school and at home.

“Parents are a powerful force for change in schools and can help bring together school staff and community partners to create healthier learning environments for students,” said Rob Bisceglie, CEO, Action for Healthy Kids. “The complementary missions of AFHK and National PTA, combined with the ALDI commitment to helping all families live healthier lives, makes our collaboration and these grants powerful tools, starting with these 25 deserving schools.”

Through its Game On program, AFHK provides schools with technical support to activate their grants, assistance with developing their school health teams and assessing their school health environment, as well as other tools and resources. Twenty-five schools in five states— California, Illinois, Kansas, Missouri and Texas—will each receive up to a $1,000 grant that will be used for a variety of wellness purposes including: • Nutrition education, school gardens, taste tests, and healthy classroom parties and celebrations that introduce students to the value of a healthy lifestyle; and • Funding for physical education, active indoor and outdoor recess, classroom energizers, walking and running clubs, and before- and after-school programs.

“Ensuring children have access to physical activity and nutritious foods in schools is critical to their success and to set the stage for a healthy lifestyle into adulthood,” said Laura Bay, president of National PTA. “PTA leaders, members and families play an important role in helping schools deliver physical activity programs and implement improved meal offerings. We are pleased to team up with Action for Healthy Kids and ALDI to equip PTAs and schools with resources to engage families and provide a healthier environment for students.”

“In working with Action for Healthy Kids over the years, we know firsthand the great work schools can do when supported with the right resources and people power,” said ALDI spokeswoman Liz Ruggles. “This new collaboration with Action for Healthy Kids and National PTA truly demonstrates what it means to bring schools, parents and community partners together to make a difference in the lives of children and families. We’re honored to be able to support families in the communities where we operate.”

For more information and a complete list of schools awarded Game On Grants for the 2016- 2017 school year, visit www.actionforhealthykids.org/ALDI.

About Action for Healthy Kids®

Action for Healthy Kids® is a nationwide grassroots network mobilizing school professionals, families and communities to take actions that improve school foods, nutrition education, physical activity and physical education for all students. Through funding opportunities, expert technical assistance, and our flagship program, Game On, Action for Healthy Kids supports schools in developing healthy environments where children thrive. To learn more about the ways our 100,000+ volunteer network is helping to make every kid healthy, active and ready to learn, visit us at www.ActionforHealthyKids.org, on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/act4healthykids) and on Twitter (https://twitter.com/Act4HlthyKids).

About National PTA

National PTA® comprises millions of families, students, teachers, administrators, and business and community leaders devoted to the educational success of children and the promotion of family engagement in schools. PTA is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit association that prides itself on being a powerful voice for all children, a relevant resource for families and communities, and a strong advocate for public education. Membership in PTA is open to anyone who wants to be involved and make a difference for the education, health, and welfare of children and youth.

About ALDI Inc.

A leader in the grocery retailing industry, ALDI operates nearly 1,600 US stores in 34 states. More than 32 million customers each month save up to 50 percent on their grocery bills, benefiting from the ALDI simple and streamlined approach to retailing. ALDI sells the most frequently purchased grocery and household items, primarily under its exclusive brands, which must meet or exceed the national name brands on taste and quality. ALDI is so confident in the quality of its products, the company offers a Double Guarantee: If for any reason a customer is not 100 percent satisfied with any ALDI food product, ALDI will gladly replace the product and refund the purchase price. ALDI was honored with the 2015 Supermarket News Retail Achievement Award, recognizing the company for its ongoing business expansion and product evolution. For more information about ALDI, visit aldi.us.

Contact:

Loren Coleman
Action for Healthy Kids
(312) 878-7672
lcoleman@ActionforHealthyKids.org

Source: ALDI Inc.

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RILA welcomes Christin Fernandez and Talana Lattimer to its communications and marketing team

Arlington , VA, 2016-Nov-05 — /EPR Retail News/ — Today (11/2/2016), the Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) announced the addition of two experienced professionals to its communications and marketing team, Christin Fernandez and Talana Lattimer.

“We are pleased to welcome Christin and Talana to RILA. They are both talented communication professionals with deep experience utilizing traditional and digital communications to advance organizational goals,” said Brian Dodge, RILA’s executive vice president for communications. “With their enthusiasm and experience, Talana and Christin will be a valuable addition to the RILA team.”

As Vice President for Communications, Christin Fernandez will serve as RILA’s primary media contact with responsibility for advancing RILA’s objectives to external audiences. Fernandez previously served as Director of Media Relations and Public Affairs at the National Restaurant Association. In that role, Fernandez led press and public communications strategy for several of the association’s priority initiatives, including food and environmental policy, tax and immigration reform, labor and workforce issues, commerce and entrepreneurship and industry reputation. Earlier in her career, Fernandez was a vice president at the public relations firm HDMK and a producer and assignment editor at the Fox News Channel.

Fernandez graduated from Lehigh University in 2007 with a degree in Journalism and Communications.

As Director of Digital Communications, Talana Lattimer will work with peers across the organization to develop strategic digital plans to achieve RILA’s goals and objectives. Previously, Lattimer spent four years with Americans for Safe Access (ASA), rising from Social Media Director to Operations Director. Among her responsibilities at ASA were the development and implementation of the organization’s marketing and public relations strategies. Prior to joining ASA, Lattimer was a Digital Media Coordinator for the Association for Career and Technical Education. Earlier in her career, Lattimer held positions with WHUT-TV, American Forum and the Terry McAuliffe for Governor Campaign.

Lattimer is a 2012 graduate of Howard University with a degree in Radio, TV and Film.

RILA is the trade association of the world’s largest and most innovative retail companies. RILA members include more than 200 retailers, product manufacturers, and service suppliers, which together account for more than $1.5 trillion in annual sales, millions of American jobs and more than 100,000 stores, manufacturing facilities and distribution centers domestically and abroad.

Contact:

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

Source: RILA

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Federated Co-operatives Limited and retail co-ops join in Farm Credit Canada’s annual food drive

Federated Co-operatives Limited and retail co-ops join in Farm Credit Canada's annual food drive
Federated Co-operatives Limited and retail co-ops join in Farm Credit Canada’s annual food drive

 

Saskatoon, SK, 2016-Nov-05 — /EPR Retail News/ — The Co-operative Retailing System has once again helped Farm Credit Canada (FCC) Drive Away Hunger.

This fall, Federated Co-operatives Limited (FCL) and retail co-ops across Western Canada were among the partners participating in FCC’s annual food drive.

The 2016 campaign has collected more than 6.7 million meals for food banks across the country, including more than 1.76 million in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba.

Working together

In Western Canada, retail co-ops partnered with local FCC offices to host Drive Away Hunger stops in 26 communities. The events featured barbecues, activities and opportunities for Co-op members and customers to make food donations.

FCL also provided $15,000 in Co-op Gift Cards to the campaign, which will be provided to local food banks in those communities.

“FCC Drive Away Hunger is about working with our partners, FCC offices and schools across Canada toward a common goal of reducing hunger in our communities,” said Michael Hoffort, FCC president and CEO, in a media release. “It draws an important connection between those who produce our food and those in need of a helping hand.

“I’m once again overwhelmed by the generous support of our customers and partners — we couldn’t have done this without them.”

Source: Coop

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Tractor Supply Company announces the appointment of Ram Krishnan to its Board of Directors

BRENTWOOD, TN, 2016-Nov-05 — /EPR Retail News/ — Tractor Supply Company (NASDAQ: TSCO), the largest rural lifestyle retail store chain in the United States, today (11/03/16 ) announced that Ram Krishnan has been appointed to the Company’s Board of Directors.

Mr. Krishnan is a recognized Fortune 500 executive with over 20 years of global marketing experience. His expertise in mobile, e-commerce, social and experiential marketing has led to the successful expansion of brands such as Frito-Lay, PepsiCo and General Motors. Mr. Krishnan currently serves as the Senior Vice President and Chief Customer Officer of Global Sales for PepsiCo.

Cynthia Jamison, Tractor Supply Company’s Chairman of the Board, stated, “Ram is a proven and innovative marketing veteran with an impressive track record of leadership success, and we are delighted that he will be joining the Tractor Supply Board of Directors. We are confident that Ram’s global marketing experience and business background will be valuable assets to the Tractor Supply team as we continue to focus on our long-term strategy.”

Mr. Krishnan commented, “Joining Tractor Supply’s Board is an exciting opportunity, as the Company continues to expand its highly-regarded brand, customer base, and impactful consumer connections. I look forward to serving Tractor Supply and contributing to the Company’s continued growth and success as the most dependable supplier of every-day products for the rural lifestyle.”

Prior to serving as Senior Vice President and Chief Customer Officer of Global Sales for PepsiCo, Mr. Krishnan served as Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of Frito-Lay, having previously held several management and leadership positions with Frito-Lay between 2006 and 2016. Prior to 2006, Mr. Krishnan served in management and consulting positions for General Motors.

About Tractor Supply Company

At September 24, 2016, Tractor Supply Company operated 1,575 stores in 49 states. The Company’s stores are focused on supplying the lifestyle needs of recreational farmers and ranchers and others who enjoy the rural lifestyle, as well as tradesmen and small businesses. Stores are located primarily in towns outlying major metropolitan markets and in rural communities. The Company offers the following comprehensive selection of merchandise: (1) equine, livestock, pet and small animal products, including items necessary for their health, care, growth and containment; (2) hardware, truck, towing and tool products; (3) seasonal products, including heating, lawn and garden items, power equipment, gifts and toys; (4) work/recreational clothing and footwear; and (5) maintenance products for agricultural and rural use.

Contact Information:

Anthony F. Crudele, Chief Financial Officer
Christine Skold, Vice President, Investor Relations and Corporate Communications
(615) 440-4000

Investors Contact:
John Rouleau/Rachel Schacter
ICR

Media Contact:
Alecia Pulman/Brittany Rae Fraser
ICR
(203) 682-8200

Source: Tractor Supply Company