Daily Archives: February 1, 2017

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Apranga Group announces 10.5% retail turnover increase in January 2017 compared to same month last year

Vilnius, Lithuania, 2017-Feb-01 — /EPR Retail News/ —  The retail turnover (including VAT) of the Apranga Group amounted to EUR 18.0 million in January 2017, and increased by 10.5% compared to January 2016.

In January 2017 the retail turnover of Apranga Group in Lithuania increased by 6.0% year-to-year, in Latvia increased by 10.3% and in Estonia increased by 29.6%.

Currently Apranga Group operates the chain of 183 stores covering an area of 83.6 thousand sq. m. Stores area increased by 5.9% during the year.

Shares of Apranga are listed on Baltic equity list on Nasdaq Vilnius Stock Exchange. Majority shareholder of Apranga Group is concern MG Baltic.

Rimantas Perveneckas
Apranga Group Director General
+370 5 2390801

Contact:
Saulius Bačauskas
APB Apranga Finance and Economics Director
Tel. +370 5 2390 808, +370 5 2390 843
Fax. +370 5 2390 800
E-mail: s.bacauskas@apranga.lt

Source: Apranga Group/globenewswire

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SPAR Hungary donated €512,000 to social responsibility causes in 2016

Hungary, 2017-Feb-01 — /EPR Retail News/ — SPAR Hungary donated more than 160 million HUF (approximately €512,000) to social responsibility causes in 2016. The first donation of this year went to the Hungarian Fire Fighters Association, which received 100 new LCD monitors to help with the training of new firemen.

“As a family-owned enterprise, SPAR lays great emphasis on supporting those in need and contributing to social responsibility initiatives. We provide a significant number of product donations and financial support to different organisations and communities,” explained Márk Maczelka, Head of Communications at SPAR Hungary.

Charitable causes in 2016

Last year, SPAR supported almost 100 organisations and institutions across the country active in the fields of culture, education, healthcare, social welfare and animal protection. One such organisation was the Hungarian Maltese Charity Service, a strategic partner of SPAR’s for several years, which received more than 61 million HUF for different charitable activities. Through the sale of donation cards sold in stores, at OMV petrol stations and online, more than 10 million HUF was collected to aid families living in extreme poverty, and out of the revenue collected from the sale of charity shopping bags, 4 million HUF was donated to the Hungarian Maltese Ambulance Service. In addition to this, customers of SPAR stores donated a record amount of food products in December, with 288.5 tonnes collected for the “Joy to Give” donation programme.

SPAR Hungary is also committed to supporting local businesses and national activities and is a key sponsor of the Budapest Wine Festival, which promotes Hungarian wines. Proceeds from the festival’s Charity Wine Auction go towards the Hungarian Maltese Charity Service.

Continuing the charitable trend in 2017

SPAR Hungary’s contribution to the Fire Fighters Association is in keeping with its support for various disaster management services. “We have formed a strategic partnership with the National Disaster Management Directorate. We have also assisted the work of the National Fire Prevention Committee and supported numerous disaster management events and organisations throughout the country,” added Mr Maczelka.

Contact:

SPAR International
Email: info@spar-international.com
Tel: +3120 626 6749

Source: Spar International

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Bartell Drugs expands its popular Amazon Prime Now one-hour online ordering and delivery service

SEATTLE, 2017-Feb-01 — /EPR Retail News/ — Bartell Drugs announced the expansion of its popular Amazon Prime Now one-hour online ordering and delivery service.

Bartells was the first drugstore to launch on Prime Now back in November 2016.The service allows Prime members in Seattle to easily shop thousands of health, beauty, grocery, snacks, local products and much more from Bartell Drugs and have those items conveniently delivered right to their door for free in two hours. This expansion gives even larger service coverage into additional Seattle and Eastside neighborhoods.

Prime members can simply log onto www.bartelldrugs.com/services/primenow/ to enter their zip code to see if they are within the designated deliver areas.

Bartell Drugs delivery is available in select zip codes. The service is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

About Bartell Drugs:

Family-owned since 1890, Seattle-based Bartell Drugs is proud of its more than 126-year history based here in the Northwest. Four generations of the Bartell family have continuously focused on the future – and how the drugstore chain could better serve its customers. Operating 65 locations in King, Snohomish and Pierce counties, it is the nation’s oldest family-owned drugstore chain. For more information on Bartell Drugs, visit www.bartelldrugs.com.

Media Contact:

Ric Brewer
Senior Communications Manager
Bartell Drugs
206-933-9416
ric.brewer@bartelldrugs.com

Source: Bartell Drugs

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Signet Jewelers Limited announces organizational changes

Expands Digital Expertise through Appointment of Brian A. Tilzer to Board of Directors

HAMILTON, Bermuda, 2017-Feb-01 — /EPR Retail News/ — Signet Jewelers Limited (NYSE:SIG), the world’s largest retailer of diamond jewelry, announced several organizational changes designed to enable execution of key business priorities including strengthening customer service, enhancing digital capabilities and driving profitable growth

Senior Organizational Changes Include:

  • Creating a new President & Chief Customer Officer role to sharpen Signet’s focus on delivering an exceptional and unified omni-channel customer experience across brick-and-mortar, mobile and digital retail platforms
  • Creating a new Chief Retail Insights and Strategy Officer role to consolidate and enhance retail analytics, consumer insights and strategy functions to drive strategy across the business
  • Consolidating responsibility for IT modernization, transformational initiatives and achieving operational efficiencies throughout Signet’s supply chain under the Chief Operations Officer
  • Announcing the retirement of two long-time executives: Ed Hrabak, Signet Chief Operations Officer; and Tryna Kochanek, EVP, North American Store Operations
  • Expanding Signet’s overall digital capabilities by adding a digital expert to Signet’s Board of Directors

Chief Executive Officer Mark Light said, “We continue to align our organization and priorities with our Vision 2020 strategy and the changing retail environment, characterized by evolving shopping habits and increasing customer expectations for an outstanding digital experience. We are investing and directing more resources to improve the overall customer omni-channel journey, re-emphasizing our commitment to the customer experience and enhancing our analytics function to ensure we are offering products and services that appeal to today’s and tomorrow’s customers. These changes and investments support the long-term growth of our business and build upon our competitive strengths and leading market position.”

Exceptional Customer Experience

The Company announced the promotion of Sebastian Hobbs, UK Managing Director, to the newly created role of President and Chief Customer Officer.

“We view this new role of President & CCO as critically important to the future success of our organization,” said CEO Mark Light. “As the world’s largest diamond jewelry retailer, Signet is committed to continually earning the trust of our customers and ensuring they have a world-class experience. Seb’s experience uniquely positions him to succeed in this newly created role which reflects the importance we place on the customer experience at Signet. We are confident Seb will provide the leadership necessary to provide our customers with a strong voice and build a highly attentive and responsive omni-channel organization.”

Mr. Hobbs will report directly to Signet’s CEO and have global responsibility for leading all three of Signet’s critical, customer-facing functions: Store Operations, Merchandising and Marketing, including the continued development of a best-in-class omni-channel experience. Mr. Hobbs’ experience includes nearly six years at Signet, along with broad retail General Management and Commercial executive experience, and successful leadership of the UK Division’s business.

Signet also announced that Emma Hayward will be promoted to Executive Director of the UK Division, reporting to Mr. Hobbs, who will continue to oversee UK operations in his role as President & CCO. Currently UK Store Operations Director, Ms. Hayward has more than 20 years of experience in increasing retail leadership responsibilities, including 12 years in a number of management roles leading store operations at Signet.

Mark Light added, “Emma Hayward will be promoted to Executive Director of the UK Division, reporting to Seb, who will continue to oversee UK operations. We believe her commitment and experience will ensure an unparalleled customer experience across our UK businesses.”

Ensuring Efficiency and Infrastructure Excellence

Bryan Morgan, EVP, Supply Chain Management and Repair, has been promoted to Signet’s new Chief Operations Officer reporting to CEO Mark Light.

“The ongoing modernization of Signet’s IT systems is critical to meeting increasing consumer demand and supporting an exceptional online shopping experience,” said Light. “Bryan will be responsible for working closely with our Chief Information Officer to deliver against our IT systems objectives.”

Mr. Morgan will also lead Signet’s transformational initiatives and operational efficiency objectives, in addition to his current responsibilities for the expansion and harmonization of Signet’s international distribution centers and logistics, implementing enhancements to customer repair procedures, and continuously improving the Company’s strategic procurement processes.

Leveraging Consumer Insights and Analytics

George Murray, Chief Merchandising and Marketing Officer, has been named to the new role of Chief Retail Insights and Strategy Officer, reporting to CEO Mark Light. The move reflects the increasing complexity and scope of the business and a greater emphasis on retail and consumer data to drive strategy across the business.

Mr. Murray will continue to play a key role on Signet’s Executive Committee. He will also focus on identifying strategic opportunities for future growth, building out a world-class retail analytics function and fully integrating our retail analytics capabilities with the Strategy team.

Expanding Digital Expertise on Signet’s Board of Directors

In a companion press release, Signet has announced that Brian A. Tilzer, currently Chief Digital Officer at CVS Health, has been appointed to the Signet Board of Directors.

“Brian’s deep experience from his digital and e-commerce roles at major retailers, combined with his current work developing a breakthrough customer experience through digital in an omni-channel environment, are perfectly aligned with our priorities, said Mark Light. “We are thrilled that Brian will be joining our Board, and we look forward to benefitting from his outstanding digital and retail expertise as we continue to enhance our omni-channel capabilities.”

Mr. Tilzer has more than 20 years of experience in strategic business development, operations and information technology, with a deep concentration in corporate and ecommerce strategy. Prior to joining CVS Health, Tilzer was the Senior Vice President of Global e-Commerce withStaples, where he developed and led several multi-channel digital innovation strategies. Tilzer holds a BA from Tufts University and an MBA from The Wharton School.

Key Retirements

In addition to the new leadership position appointments, Signet is announcing the retirement of two long-time executives: Ed Hrabak, Signet Chief Operations Officer; and Tryna Kochanek, EVP, North American Store Operations. Each executive has committed to ensuring a smooth transition prior to departure.

“With a career spanning nearly 40 years, including 30 years at Signet in key Merchandising and executive leadership roles, Ed has earned a distinguished global reputation throughout the jewelry industry. As he steps down from his COO role, we want to recognize his values-driven leadership, which has been instrumental in our rapid profitable growth and performance excellence.”

Mr. Light continued, “We greatly value Tryna’s many contributions to our organization since she began her career at Signet 30 years ago. Tryna has taken on increasingly significant Store Operations leadership roles throughout her career and her dedication to developing team members and her commitment to measurable excellence had a tremendous impact on Signet’s growth and success.”

“We want to express our heartfelt appreciation for Ed’s and Tryna’s dedication and countless contributions to Signet over these past three decades and we wish them the very best in their retirements.”

About Signet and Safe Harbor Statement

Signet Jewelers Limited is the world’s largest retailer of diamond jewelry. Signet operates approximately 3,600 stores primarily under the name brands of Kay Jewelers, Zales, Jared The Galleria Of Jewelry, H.Samuel, Ernest Jones, Peoples and Piercing Pagoda. Further information on Signet is available at www.signetjewelers.com. See also www.kay.com, www.zales.com, www.jared.com, www.hsamuel.co.uk,www.ernestjones.co.uk, www.peoplesjewellers.com and www.pagoda.com.

This release contains statements which are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements, based upon management’s beliefs and expectations as well as on assumptions made by and data currently available to management, appear in a number of places throughout this document and include statements regarding, among other things, Signet’s results of operation, financial condition, liquidity, prospects, growth, strategies and the industry in which Signet operates. The use of the words “expects,” “intends,” “anticipates,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “believes,” “should,” “potential,” “may,” “forecast,” “objective,” “plan,” or “target,” and other similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to general economic conditions, to general economic conditions, regulatory changes following the United Kingdom’s announcement to exit from the European Union, a decline in consumer spending, the merchandising, pricing and inventory policies followed by Signet, the reputation of Signet and its brands, the level of competition in the jewelry sector, the cost and availability of diamonds, gold and other precious metals, regulations relating to customer credit, seasonality of Signet’s business, financial market risks, deterioration in customers’ financial condition, exchange rate fluctuations, changes in Signet’s credit rating, changes in consumer attitudes regarding jewelry, management of social, ethical and environmental risks, security breaches and other disruptions to Signet’s information technology infrastructure and databases, inadequacy in and disruptions to internal controls and systems, changes in assumptions used in making accounting estimates relating to items such as extended service plans and pensions, risks related to Signet being a Bermuda corporation, the impact of the acquisition of Zale Corporation on relationships, including with employees, suppliers, customers and competitors, and our ability to successfully integrate Zale Corporation’s operations and to realize synergies from the transaction.

For a discussion of these risks and other risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward looking statement, see the “Risk Factors” section of Signet’s Fiscal 2016 Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 24, 2016 and Part II, Item 1A of Form 10-Q filed November 29, 2016. Signet undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances, except as required by law.

Contact:

Investors:
James Grant
1-330-668-5412
VP Investor Relations

Media:
David Bouffard
1-330-668-5369
VP Corporate Affairs

Source: Signet Jewelers Limited

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Signet Jewelers Limited expands its board to 12 members with the appointment of Brian A. Tilzer

HAMILTON, Bermuda, 2017-Feb-01 — /EPR Retail News/ — Signet Jewelers Limited (NYSE:SIG), the world’s largest retailer of diamond jewelry, today (January 31, 2017) announced that the Signet Board of Directors has voted to expand the board to 12 members and has appointed Brian A. Tilzer to fill the newly created board position effective immediately. Mr. Tilzer currently serves as Chief Digital Officer at CVS Health and has more than 20 years of experience in strategic business development, operations and information technology, with a deep concentration in corporate and ecommerce strategy. Prior to joining CVS Health, Mr. Tilzer was the Senior Vice President of Global e-Commerce with Staples, where he developed and led several multi-channel digital innovation strategies.

“Brian brings to Signet deep, innovative digital and e-commerce experiences at major retailers,” said Chairman H. Todd Stitzer. “There is a valuable connection between Brian’s very specific experience and the strong growth opportunities ahead for Signet. Brian is a successful innovator in the digital space and we believe his knowledge and insight will make Brian a valuable addition to the Signet Board of Directors.”

In his role as Senior Vice President and Chief Digital Officer for CVS Health, Mr. Tilzer is responsible for developing and leading the teams driving CVS Health’s company wide digital innovation efforts. He is also focused on connecting current and future digital initiatives and ensuring that CVS Health continues to use the most innovative technology available to seamlessly meet customers’ needs.

Mr. Tilzer holds a BA from Tufts University, an MBA from The Wharton School, and is a member of the Mass Technology Leadership Council (MassTLC), a leading technology association and the premier network for tech executives, entrepreneurs, investors and policy leaders.

About Signet and Safe Harbor Statement:

Signet Jewelers Limited is the world’s largest retailer of diamond jewelry. Signet operates approximately 3,600 stores primarily under the name brands of Kay Jewelers, Zales, Jared The Galleria Of Jewelry, H.Samuel, Ernest Jones, Peoples and Piercing Pagoda. Further information on Signet is available at www.signetjewelers.com. See also www.kay.com, www.zales.com, www.jared.com, www.hsamuel.co.uk,www.ernestjones.co.uk, www.peoplesjewellers.com and www.pagoda.com.

This release contains statements which are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements, based upon management’s beliefs and expectations as well as on assumptions made by and data currently available to management, appear in a number of places throughout this document and include statements regarding, among other things, Signet’s results of operation, financial condition, liquidity, prospects, growth, strategies and the industry in which Signet operates. The use of the words “expects,” “intends,” “anticipates,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “believes,” “should,” “potential,” “may,” “forecast,” “objective,” “plan,” or “target,” and other similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to general economic conditions, to general economic conditions, regulatory changes following the United Kingdom’s announcement to exit from the European Union, a decline in consumer spending, the merchandising, pricing and inventory policies followed by Signet, the reputation of Signet and its brands, the level of competition in the jewelry sector, the cost and availability of diamonds, gold and other precious metals, regulations relating to customer credit, seasonality of Signet’s business, financial market risks, deterioration in customers’ financial condition, exchange rate fluctuations, changes in Signet’s credit rating, changes in consumer attitudes regarding jewelry, management of social, ethical and environmental risks, security breaches and other disruptions to Signet’s information technology infrastructure and databases, inadequacy in and disruptions to internal controls and systems, changes in assumptions used in making accounting estimates relating to items such as extended service plans and pensions, risks related to Signet being a Bermuda corporation, the impact of the acquisition of Zale Corporation on relationships, including with employees, suppliers, customers and competitors, and our ability to successfully integrate Zale Corporation’s operations and to realize synergies from the transaction.

For a discussion of these risks and other risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward looking statement, see the “Risk Factors” section of Signet’s Fiscal 2016 Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on March 24, 2016 and Part II, Item 1A of Form 10-Q filed November 29, 2016. Signet undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances, except as required by law.

Contact:

Investors:
James Grant
1-330-668-5412
VP Investor Relations

Media:
David Bouffard
1-330-668-5369
VP Corporate Affairs

Source: Signet Jewelers Limited

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Murieta Market by Raley’s now open to serve the Rancho Murieta community

Fair Oaks, CA, 2017-Feb-01 — /EPR Retail News/ — The Rancho Murieta community welcomed the opening of Murieta Market by Raley’s on January 14 in Murieta Plaza. The grocery store will serve residents until the permanent Bel Air Market opens by the end of 2017.

The process of opening a new store also resulted in large donations of goods to Sacramento Food Bank and Family Services and Consumnes River Elementary School. ““We are proud to support the communities in which we operate,” Said Becca Whitman, Raley’s Community Relations Manager. “We look forward to being good neighbors in Rancho Murieta.”

Donated Items included pencils, markers, coloring books, scissors, and more. “The school is always in dire need of these kinds of supplies,” said Becky Davis, Consumnes River Elementary School Interim Principal. “We are very thankful for this generous donation.”

For information about our stores, please contact:
Chelsea Minor
Director of PR and Public Affairs
CMinor1@raleys.com.

Source: Raleys

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The Home Depot® makes its first major investment in a wind-powered renewable energy project

ATLANTA, 2017-Feb-01 — /EPR Retail News/ — The Home Depot® today (Jan. 31, 2017) announced its first major investment in a wind-powered renewable energy project.

The energy purchased from the wind farm is enough to power 100 Home Depot stores for a year while also providing $150,000 in local community benefits.

The Los Mirasoles Wind Farm, owned and operated by EDP Renewables North America, is located in Hidalgo and Starr Counties, northeast of McAllen, Texas. Through a 20-year power purchase agreement (PPA), The Home Depot’s annual purchase of 50 megawatts (MW) is a fifth of the wind farm’s 250 MW capacity. The farm utilizes Vestas V110 2.0 MW wind turbines and produces enough power to provide more than 70,000 average U.S. homes with clean electricity each year.

The Home Depot partnered with EDP Renewables for the Texas development in 2016. EDP Renewables operates globally with 41 wind farms across North America.

As a part of its renewable energy initiative, The Home Depot’s goal is to procure 135 megawatts of various renewable energy sources, including solar and wind, by the end of 2020.

In addition to the wind farm, the company also procures energy from solar farms in Delaware and Massachusetts with a combined annual output of 14.5 million kilowatt hours (kWh). More than 150 stores and distribution centers utilize on-site fuel cells that produce roughly 85 percent of the electricity each store needs to operate.

For more on The Home Depot’s wind energy project, visit: https://corporate.homedepot.com/newsroom/texas-wind-farm-renewable-energy

The Home Depot is the world’s largest home improvement specialty retailer, with 2,278 retail stores in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, 10 Canadian provinces and Mexico. In fiscal 2015, The Home Depot had sales of $88.5 billion and earnings of $7.0 billion. The Company employs more than 385,000 associates. The Home Depot’s stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: HD) and is included in the Dow Jones industrial average and Standard & Poor’s 500 index.

Contact:

Email: investor_relations@homedepot.com
IR Coordinator: 770-384-2871

SOURCE: The Home Depot

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Macy’s celebrates Black History Month with special in-store events

Macy’s hosts BJ The Chicago Kid, Jay Ellis, Marcus Samuelsson, Crissle West and more at eight stores nationwide

NEW YORK, 2017-Feb-01 — /EPR Retail News/ — This February, Macy’s celebrates Black History Month by welcoming a host of stars from a variety of fields including fine art, music, literature, the culinary arts, and spoken word. Black culture has electrified the pulse of American life for generations, from music and fashion to film, television and activism. It has created a wave of change that has helped propel the country to new heights. This year, our celebrity guests will share how creative self-expression and a strong connection to their heritage have shaped their careers. As part of Macy’s Black History Month celebrations, Grammy-nominated artist BJ The Chicago Kid, “Insecure” actor Jay Ellis, award-winning Macy’s Culinary Council Chef Marcus Samuelsson, and “The Read” podcast host Crissle West will join other emerging stars in conversations focused on the influence and impact of black culture on all facets of American life.

“Macy’s is once again thrilled to celebrate the contributions African Americans have made to our nation with special events in our stores. Macy’s values the diversity of all of its customers and inclusion and respect are at the heart of our core values. We are happy to join with our associates and customers nationwide in honoring the legacy of African American achievement during Black History Month and beyond,” said Kristyn Doar-Page, Macy’s vice president of Diversity & Inclusion Strategies.

In New York City and Washington, D.C., writer and pop culture commentator Crissle West will moderate thought-provoking conversations with local artists. In Philadelphia and Atlanta, Chef Marcus Samuelsson will share stories from his new book, “The Red Rooster Cookbook: The Story of Food and Hustle in Harlem!” In Chicago, BJ The Chicago Kid and Jay Ellis will participate in an engaging panel discussion and talk with the audience.

Rapper, spoken-word poet, actor and activist Saul Williams serves as the national ambassador for Macy’s Black History Month Celebration. Exclusive video performances and interviews from Williams, hailed as the “poet laureate of hip-hop” by “CNN,” will be featured at www.macys.com/celebrate.

“I am very glad Macy’s is furthering the discourse around artistic self-expression in black culture. As a performer who uses words to bring attention to social justice causes, I feel it is paramount to stimulate engagement and awareness through our words and our art,” said Williams.

BJ The Chicago Kid is an R&B recording artist who recently delivered a soulful rendition of the national anthem preceding President Obama’s farewell address. His debut album, “In My Mind,” has been nominated for three 2017 Grammy Awards. He recently released a mixtape, “The Lost Files: Cuffing Season” and a new video for his homage to Marvin Gaye, “Uncle Marvin.”

Jay Ellis is a talented actor best known for his roles on HBO’s “Insecure” and BET’s “The Game.” His other credits include guest-starring roles on “Hart of Dixie,” “How I Met Your Mother,” “NCIS,” and “Grey’s Anatomy.”

“I am grateful to be among those Macy’s has selected to discuss the powerful impact artistic black voices are having on today’s American culture,” said Jay Ellis. “There couldn’t be a better time to come together to talk about the strides we have made and the road ahead.”

Marcus Samuelsson is the acclaimed chef behind Red Rooster Harlem, Ginny’s Supper Club, and Streetbird Rotisserie. He is a committed philanthropist and the youngest person to ever receive a three-star review from “The New York Times.” Samuelsson has won multiple James Beard Foundation Awards, including Best Chef: New York City, and was tasked with planning and executing the Obama Administration’s first State dinner. Samuelsson was also crowned champion of television shows “Top Chef Masters” and “Chopped All Stars,” and served as a mentor on ABC’s “The Taste”. In October of 2016, he released his newest book, “The Red Rooster Cookbook: The Story of Food and Hustle in Harlem!”

“I am thrilled to be celebrating Black History Month with Macy’s,” said Marcus Samuelsson. “I look forward to paying homage to black culture’s impact on the culinary arts and sharing some of my favorite bites and stories with guests in Philadelphia and Atlanta.”

Crissle West is a writer and the female co-host of the hit comedy podcast, “The Read,” a weekly show covering the latest in entertainment news. Crissle’s written work has been published in “ESSENCE” magazine and she has appeared on panels covering race, gender, and sexuality.

“I am really looking forward to engaging with young people and sharing stories of how black culture has influenced my personal and professional journey,” Crissle said.

At each of the Black History Month events, Macy’s customers will have an opportunity to meet and greet with event talent. For additional information on Macy’s Black History Month festivities, please visit macys.com/celebrate.

Macy’s Black History Month events will be held at the following stores:

Macy’s Herald Square (New York City) – Wednesday, Feb. 8 at 6 p.m.
Macy’s City Center (Philadelphia) – Thursday, Feb. 9 at 5:30 p.m.
Macy’s State Street (Chicago) – Wednesday, Feb. 15 at 5:30 p.m.
Macy’s Baldwin Hills (Los Angeles) – Thursday, Feb. 16 at 6:30 p.m.
Macy’s Lenox Square (Atlanta) – Thursday, Feb. 16 at 7 p.m.
Macy’s Lenox Square (Atlanta) – Friday, Feb. 17 at 7 p.m.
Macy’s Aventura (Aventura, FL) – Saturday, Feb. 18 at 2 p.m.
Macy’s Union Square (San Francisco) – Wednesday, Feb. 22 at 6 p.m.
Macy’s Metro Center (Washington, D.C.) – Thursday, Feb. 23 at 5:30 p.m.

About Macy’s

Macy’s, the largest retail brand of Macy’s, Inc. (NYSE:M), delivers fashion and affordable luxury to customers at approximately 670 locations in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and Guam, as well as to customers in the U.S. and more than 100 international destinations through its leading online store at macys.com. Via its stores, e-commerce site, mobile and social platforms, Macy’s offers distinctive assortments including the most desired family of exclusive and fashion brands for him, her and home. Macy’s is known for such epic events as Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks® and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade®, as well as spectacular fashion shows, culinary events, flower shows and celebrity appearances. Macy’s flagship stores — including Herald Square in New York City, Union Square in San Francisco, State Street in Chicago, and Dadeland in Miami and South Coast Plaza in southern California — are known internationally and are leading destinations for visitors. Building on a more than 150-year tradition, and with the collective support of customers and employees, Macy’s helps strengthen communities by supporting local and national charities giving more than $69 million each year to help make a difference in the lives of our customers.

For Macy’s media materials, including images and contacts, please visit our online pressroom at macys.com/pressroom.

Contact:
Emily Hawkins
646-429-7458
Emily.Hawkins@macys.com

Christine Olver Nealon
646-429-5713
Christine.Olver@macys.com

Source: Macy’s

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Amazon further invests in Kentucky with plans to build a centralized air hub to support its growing fleet of Prime Air cargo planes

A new centralized air hub at the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Airport (CVG) in Hebron will help the company meet demand from Amazon Prime members for fast, reliable delivery

SEATTLE, 2017-Feb-01 — /EPR Retail News/ — Amazon has been an active member of the business community in Kentucky for nearly 20 years, employing more than 10,000 people in full-time jobs across 11 fulfillment center locations. Today, the company announced it is creating new jobs and investing even further in Kentucky with plans to build a centralized air hub to support its growing fleet of Prime Air cargo planes. At the site when it opens, the company expects to create more than 2,000 new jobs.

“As we considered places for the long-term home for our air hub operations, Hebron quickly rose to the top of the list with a large, skilled workforce, centralized location with great connectivity to our nearby fulfillment locations, and an excellent quality of living for employees. We feel strongly that with these qualities as a place to do business, our investments will support Amazon and customers well into the future,” said Dave Clark, Amazon Senior Vice President of Worldwide Operations. “We couldn’t be more excited to add 2,000-plus Amazon employees to join the more than 10,000 who work with us today across our robust operations in Kentucky.”

Last year, Amazon entered into agreements with two carriers to lease 40 dedicated cargo airplanes to support Prime members with fast, free shipping. Today (Jan. 31, 2017), 16 of those planes are in service for Amazon customers with more planes rolling out over time. Amazon’s Prime Air hub at CVG will support Amazon’s dedicated fleet of Prime Air cargo planes by loading, unloading and sorting packages.

“Amazon’s Prime Air hub promises to revolutionize the fulfillment industry worldwide, and Kentucky is excited to partner with them as they embark on this disruptive, transformative and exciting venture,” said Gov. Bevin. “Kentucky’s ideal location, proven workforce and an already extensive shipping and logistics industry have been the backbone of our relationship with Amazon for nearly 20 years. This new project will pay dividends to both the company and our state, and we are truly grateful for the jobs and economic impact it will bring to the commonwealth.”

Full-time employees at Amazon receive highly-competitive pay, health insurance, disability insurance, retirement savings plans and company stock. The company also offers up to 20 weeks of paid leave and innovative benefits such as Leave Share and Ramp Back, which give new parents flexibility with their growing families. Amazon also offers hourly employees its Career Choice program which helps train employees for in-demand jobs at Amazon and other companies so that they can prepare for the future and take full advantage of the nation’s innovation economy. The program pre-pays 95% of tuition for courses in in-demand, high-wage fields, regardless of whether the skills are relevant to a future career at Amazon. Over 9,000 employees have participated in Career Choice and more are signing up every day.

“We’ve worked hard to ensure CVG is a great place to do business and we couldn’t be more pleased that Amazon recognized those efforts with plans to build a top-in-class air cargo hub at our airport,” said Candace S. McGraw, CEO of the CVG Airport. “A vibrant airport improves the economic vitality of the region and adding thousands of new jobs through establishing this hub at CVG will certainly be transformational for the local economy and local businesses.”

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 a network of air cargo planes. These efforts join Amazon’s robust worldwide network of 149 fulfillment centers and over 20 sortation centers where the company uses 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.

The company plans to offer job opportunities at any Amazon site across the U.S. to those involved in the package sortation that occurs today in Wilmington.

Amazon recently announced plans to create more than 100,000 jobs across the U.S. over the next 18 months. You can learn more about working at Amazon by visiting http://www.amazon.jobs. To view a video about Amazon launching its growing plane network, check out an About Amazon blog 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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Starbucks announces plans to hire 10,000 refugees around the world in 75 countries

Starbucks announces plans to hire 10,000 refugees around the world in 75 countries

 

Seattle, 2017-Feb-01 — /EPR Retail News/ — On January 29, Starbucks announced plans to hire 10,000 refugees around the world in the 75 countries where it does business over the next five years. This plan is an extension of Starbucks ongoing commitment to create pathways to meaningful employment for veterans, military spouses and opportunity youth.

10,000 Veteran and Military Spouse Hires by 2018

Starbucks has hired 8,800 veterans and military spouses toward a five-year goal to reach 10,000 by 2018. To kick start the effort back in 2013, Starbucks brought aboard dedicated military recruiters, established connections at more than 200 military bases across the globe, attended more than 500 military hiring fairs and sponsored 14 hiring summits.

Starbucks also operates 32 Military Family Stores near major military bases. These locations have been given the special designation as a place of welcoming and support for military communities around the country, serving as an important gathering place to reconnect veterans with their communities, support successful transitions and create career opportunities. Military Mondays, a partnership between Starbucks and community-based Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs), provides a space in local stores where pro bono legal support and other veteran and military spouse services are offered.

Starbucks offers Military Service Pay to eligible partners (employees) with up to 80 hours of pay each year when National Guard or Reserve service obligations take them away from their work with the company. A Military Allowance is also a benefit for eligible partners who are called to active duty. In addition, districts and groups within Starbucks contribute to the Adopt a Unit program to provide coffee to Armed Forces members deployed overseas.

Starbucks Armed Forces Network, an internal group with more than 14 chapters across the country, serves as an additional layer of support for veterans, veteran spouses and any Starbucks partner wanting to show support for veterans.

10,000 Opportunity Youth Hired Across the U.S.

Well past the midway mark on the veterans and military hiring front, Starbucks is also expanding its efforts to hire Opportunity Youth – 16- to 24-year-olds who are neither employed or in school; an estimated 5.4 million young Americans. In 2015, the company committed to hiring 10,000 opportunity youth by 2018 and has already met that goal. Since then, Starbucks has joined with nearly 50 leading U.S. companies to form the 100,000 Opportunities Initiative. The country’s largest employer-led coalition announced it passed its target of hiring 100,000 opportunity youth last summer – two years ahead of schedule. The coalition, formed in July 2015, is now aligning with the cross-sector goal of creating one million opportunities by 2021.

Investing in Low- to Medium-Income Communities

In tandem with the 100,000 Opportunity Youth Initiative, Starbucks has opened four stores with classroom and training space as part of its effort to support local economic development in diverse low- to-medium income communities across the U.S. Each of these stores creates 20 to 25 new jobs with benefits, partners with a local women- and minority-owned supplier and contractor, and works with local nonprofits to provide job-skills training to youth. The stores are located in Ferguson, Missouri; Phoenix, Arizona; the Jamaica neighborhood of Queens, New York; and the Englewood neighborhood in Chicago. Starbucks plans to expand the national initiative to five new communities in 2017, including neighborhoods in the Birmingham; Baltimore; Long Beach, California; Miami; and Seattle areas. The company is aiming to open in at least 15 communities by 2018.

Discover more stories about how Starbucks is Paying Tribute and Creating Opportunity for people who’ve served and sacrificed for the country.

See how Starbucks is Creating Opportunities and Connecting Communities.

Media contact:

Global
Phone: 206 318 7100
Email: press@starbucks.com

Source: Starbucks

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New Jersey Food Council appoints Richard Saker as its new Chairman of the Board

MONROE, NJ , 2017-Feb-01 — /EPR Retail News/ — At its Annual Membership Meeting last week, the New Jersey Food Council selected Richard Saker as its new Chairman of the Board with two one-year terms. Saker, who is Chairman, President and CEO of Saker Holdings Corporation and Saker ShopRites, Inc., will lead New Jersey’s largest food industry trade association.

Having previously served as NJFC Vice Chair, Saker, a resident of Middletown, was installed as Chairman by New Jersey Lieutenant Governor Kim Guadagno.  His ascension to the Chairmanship has historical significance, as his father, Joe Saker, was a founder and served as the first Chairman of the Board of NJFC in 1969.

NJFC President and CEO Linda Doherty remarked on the historical precedence of Saker’s chairmanship, which commemorates the first time a next generation family member has led the statewide trade association.

“The New Jersey Food Council was born in the living room of the Saker Family when Richard’s father Joe Saker and a group of supermarket pioneers recognized the need for the food retail industry to have one common and unified voice in Trenton,” said Doherty.  “Almost 50 years later, Richard carries his father’s legacy as he takes the helm as the nineteenth NJFC Chairman of the Board. Under Richard’s leadership, we are confident the Association will continue to grow and promote the interests of food retailers before state and federal government in this dynamic business environment.”

Richard Saker is owner and operator of 30 ShopRite Supermarkets, 29 pharmacies, 2 liquor stores, and Dearborn Market and Garden Center.  Saker ShopRites is one of the highest average volume per store supermarket chains in the country, employing nearly 9,000 associates.

Contact:

Karen O’Shea
Communications Specialist
Email: karen.oshea@wakefern.com
Phone: 732-906-5932
Fax: 732-906-5160

Karen Meleta
Vice President
Consumer and Corporate Communications
Email: Karen.meleta@wakefern.com
Phone: 732-906-5356

Source: Wakefern Food Corp.

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Perry Ellis International and Morel S.A. collaborate to expand luggage and travel accessory collection in international markets

MIAMI, 2017-Feb-01 — /EPR Retail News/ — Perry Ellis International announced today (Jan. 31, 2017) that it has entered into a license agreement with Morel S.A. to design and distribute men’s and women’s luggage, travel bags and back packs under the Perry Ellis® trademark in Central America, South America and the Caribbean.  The collection will be distributed in department stores and upscale specialty stores with a product launch in Fall 2017.

As a designer, Perry Ellis played with fashion convention simply by not taking it so seriously. Following only what felt right. In doing so, he redefined the fashion industry. Today, this philosophy continues to inspire the Perry Ellis brand which offers modern style with versatile trend right looks that reflect the way people want to work, play and live today.

“We are pleased to partner with Morel S.A. and believe this collaboration aligns with our strategic initiatives to expand the Perry Ellis brand in international markets,” commented George Feldenkreis, Executive Chairman of Perry Ellis International.

“We are very proud and excited to join the Perry Ellis family,” said Mr. Ilan Segman, General Manager of Morel S.A. “This Fall 17, we will be presenting a full luggage collection. The line will consist of a wide range of men’s and women’s luggage as well as fashion travel bags and back packs.”

For more information about Perry Ellis International, Inc. and the company’s entire portfolio of brands, please visit. www.PERY.com.

About Perry Ellis International

Perry Ellis International, Inc. is a leading designer, distributor and licensor of a broad line of high quality men’s and women’s apparel, accessories and fragrances. The Company’s collection of dress and casual shirts, golf sportswear, sweaters, dress pants, casual pants and shorts, jeans wear, active wear, dresses and men’s and women’s swimwear is available through all major levels of retail distribution. The Company, through its wholly owned subsidiaries, owns a portfolio of nationally and internationally recognized brands, including: Perry Ellis®, Original Penguin® by Munsingwear®, Laundry by Shelli Segal®, Rafaella®, Cubavera®, Ben Hogan®, Savane®, Grand Slam®, John Henry®,  Manhattan®, Axist®, Jantzen® and Farah®.  The Company enhances its roster of brands by licensing trademarks from third parties, including: Nike® and Jag® for swimwear, and Callaway®, PGA TOUR®, and Jack Nicklaus® for golf apparel. Additional information on the Company is available at http://www.pery.com.

About Morel S.A.
Morel S.A was founded in 1963 in Panama, as an importer-distributor of luggage and travel accessories for Latin America, Central America and the Caribbean Islands. With over five decades of experience in business management, import, export, design and manufacture of products, Morel is one of the most respected companies in Latin America. Morel S.A. is the official distributor for Barbie, Hot Wheels, Betty Boop, Wilson, Arena Milano, Joe Boxer, Paul Frank among other brands.

Contact:

Alberto Maduro
Alberto.Maduro@pery.com
305-873-1331

Ilan Segman
Ilan@morelsa.com
011-507-445-2222

Source: Perry Ellis International/globenewswire

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Perry Ellis International director Jane E. DeFlorio appointed to DDR’s Board of Directors

BEACHWOOD, Ohio, 2017-Feb-01 — /EPR Retail News/ — DDR Corp. (NYSE: DDR) today (Jan 31, 2017) announced that Jane E. DeFlorio, lead independent director of Perry Ellis International, Inc., has been appointed to the Company’s Board of Directors, effective immediately.

Ms. DeFlorio is a seasoned investment banker who has extensive experience advising mid- to large-cap retail and e-commerce clients on shareholder value creation strategies, mergers and acquisitions, capital structure, and product and market expansion initiatives. Ms. DeFlorio was a former managing director in the U.S. Retail and Consumer Investment Banking Group with Deutsche Bank Securities. Prior to her time at Deutsche Bank, Ms. DeFlorio served as an executive director in investment banking at UBS, where she advised a wide range of mid- to large-cap retail and consumer clients. Previously, she served as a vice president in investment banking at Morgan Stanley & Co., where she specialized in advising e-commerce companies.

In her current role at Perry Ellis, Ms. DeFlorio serves on the audit, governance and investment committees of the board.  Ms. DeFlorio also serves on several non-profit boards, including as vice chair of the Board of Trustees and chair of the audit and risk committee at The New School University, and as a member of the board of governors at The Parsons School of Design. She earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Notre Dame, and an MBA from Harvard University.

“We are extremely pleased to have Jane join our board. Given her diverse background in finance and retail, Jane will be a valuable resource for both the board and management in this rapidly evolving retail environment,” said Tom August, president and chief executive officer of DDR.

Terrence R. Ahern, chairman of the board, added, “DDR is intently focused on assisting our tenants to provide the best retail experience for their customers.  One way we do this is by attracting persons with deep retailing expertise to both our board and management team.  Jane is exactly the type of retail professional to fill that role and we are excited for her to join us.”

About DDR Corp.

DDR is an owner and manager of 319 value-oriented shopping centers representing 106 million square feet in 35 states and Puerto Rico.  The Company’s assets are concentrated in high barrier-to-entry markets with stable population and high growth potential and its portfolio is actively managed to create long-term shareholder value. DDR is a self-administered and self-managed REIT operating as a fully integrated real estate company, and is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol DDR. Additional information about the Company is available at www.ddr.com.

Contact:

Toll-Free Phone: 877-CALL-DDR
Phone: 216-755-5500
Fax: 216-755-1500

SOURCE: DDR Corp.

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Athleta’s spring collection features more than 40 Fair Trade Certified styles

MORE THAN 40 STYLES NOW PROVIDE A PREMIUM TO PREDOMINANTLY FEMALE FACTORY WORKFORCE

SAN FRANCISCO, 2017-Feb-01 — /EPR Retail News/ — Athleta is introducing an assortment of styles created in a factory certified by Fair Trade USA, an organization dedicated to creating social and economic opportunities for factory workers around the world.

Athleta’s spring collection features more than 40 Fair Trade CertifiedTM styles and more styles will be added throughout the year. The offering is expected to approach 100 items by the end of 2017. The Fair Trade CertifiedTM pieces include the latest designs in some of Athleta’s most popular product lines such as the Sculptek Stealth collection and High Neck Chi tank as well as a range of additional tops and bottoms. The pieces are available in Athleta stores, through the Athleta catalog and online at Athleta.com.

Working with Fair Trade USA enables Athleta to enhance its commitment to empowering women by supporting the female-dominated workforce in the manufacturing facilities with which it sources. For every Fair Trade Certified™ product sold, factory workers directly earn an additional financial premium, which they collectively invest in the needs of their community. Previous investments, which are voted on and executed by the workers themselves, have included childcare, transportation, women’s health programs, and education – directly enhancing the lives of workers and their families. The debut styles are produced by a newly certified facility in Sri Lanka, supporting more than 2,100 workers of whom more than 80 percent are women.

“Supporting women in their ability to come together to reach their full potential is core to our brand,” said Nancy Green, president, Athleta. “Partnering with Fair Trade USA is an important and natural step in directly enabling the women who create Athleta clothes to positively affect their communities and families.”

For a product to earn Fair Trade certification, it must originate from a facility that operates according to the rigorous social, environmental and economic standards set in place by Fair Trade USA. The Fair Trade certification complements Gap Inc.’s Vendor Conduct standards. As part of the Gap Inc. portfolio of brands, Athleta products are manufactured by approved factories that are required to comply with the Gap Inc. Code of Vendor Conduct, which sets forth rigorous requirements for compliance with applicable laws, environmental standards, labor practices and working conditions to help ensure that factory workers are treated with dignity and respect.

“Fair Trade allows each of us to live our values through our everyday choices–through a simple purchase,” said Paul Rice, President & CEO of Fair Trade USA. “When you choose a Fair Trade Certified™ item from Athleta, you’re not just getting an amazing product; you’re also helping empower and improve the lives of the women who made it.”

ABOUT FAIR TRADE USA

Fair Trade USA is a nonprofit organization that promotes sustainable livelihoods for farmers and workers; protects fragile ecosystems; and builds strong, transparent supply chains through independent, third-party certification. Its trusted Fair Trade Certified™ label signifies that rigorous standards have been met in the production, trade and promotion of Fair Trade products from over 80 countries across the globe. Recognized as a leading social venture by the Clinton Global Initiative, the Skoll Foundation and Ashoka, Fair Trade USA also provides critical capacity-building programs at origin, and educates consumers about the power of their purchase. www.FairTradeUSA.org.

ABOUT ATHLETA

Athleta creates versatile premium performance apparel designed by women athletes to inspire a community of active, confident women and girls to reach their limitless potential. Founded in 1998, Athleta integrates performance and technical features across its collection to carry a woman through her life in motion – from yoga and training to about-town and travel. In 2016 the company launched Athleta Girl mirroring its signature performance in styles for the next generation. Based in Petaluma, CA and a Gap Inc. brand (NYSE:GPS), Athleta apparel is available at its 125+ retail stores across the country, through its catalog, and at www.athleta.com.

Investor information:

investor_relations@gap.com
650-952-4400

Source: Gap Inc.

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Banana Republic kicks off NYFW with Spring 2017 collection with Olivia Palermo pop-up shops

  • BANANA REPUBLIC LAUNCHES OLIVIA PALERMO SPRING 2017
  • POP-UPS AT FEBRUARY NYFW AND ANNOUNCES A FALL 2017
  • OLIVIA PALERMO CAPSULE COLLECTION TO DEBUT AT SEPTEMBER NYFW

NEW YORK, 2017-Feb-01 — /EPR Retail News/ — Banana Republic will shift the timing of its NYFW presentations to be customer-facing when the collections are in-store. It’s a natural evolution for the brand—among the first to offer See Now, Buy Now to customers a year ago—in service to customer demand for product as it’s shown.

On February 9, Banana Republic will celebrate its Spring 2017 collection with Olivia Palermo pop-up shops at select Banana Republic stores. As Banana Republic’s Global Style Ambassador, Palermo has curated a distinctive pop-up experience in top Banana Republic doors. The pop-ups will reflect Palermo’s iconic style from both an interiors and fashion perspective, including personal touches that make the experience unique to her sensibility. An assortment of Banana Republic and third-party product personally picked by Palermo will sit in the pop-up shops year-round.

To kick off NYFW on February 9, Banana Republic will host pop-up celebrations at three store locations – SoHo (New York, NY), The Grove (Los Angeles, CA) and Grant Street (San Francisco, CA). Fans can meet Palermo at the SoHo event on February 9, or tune into Banana Republic’s LIVE 360 at 6pm ET to join the party on bananarepublic.com. To top off February 9’s festivities, Banana Republic will be offering #BRSTYLERIDE – luxury lifts between select Banana Republic stores within New York, San Francisco and Los Angeles, courtesy of BMW. Customers can get a ride in style with proof of purchase or use of #BRSTYLERIDE on social media.

As a further build to their partnership, Palermo and Banana Republic will reveal a Fall 2017 capsule collection designed by Palermo and the Banana Republic design team at September NYFW. Supporting the brand’s goal to amplify awareness when collections hit stores, a private preview of the company’s Fall 2017 collections will be hosted for long-lead press during February NYFW, and will be kept under-wraps until it is available for customer purchase in September.

“I am so honored to evolve my partnership with Banana Republic with such a personal approach to both our pop-ups and capsule collection,” says Palermo. “We’re a great team and it’s truly been such a collaborative approach that reflects the synergy between my style and the brand.”

ABOUT BANANA REPUBLIC (@BananaRepublic)

Banana Republic is a global apparel and accessories brand focused on delivering versatile, contemporary classics, designed for today with style that endures. Through thoughtful design, Banana Republic provides a wardrobe of favorites to style and wear time and time again in new ways. Banana Republic offers fragrances, clothing, eyewear, jewelry, shoes and handbags with detailed craftsmanship and luxurious materials. Founded in San Francisco, Banana Republic is a division of leading global specialty retailer, Gap Inc. (NYSE: GPS). Customers may shop Banana Republic in more than 750 company-operated and franchise retail locations worldwide and online. For more information about Banana Republic, its products and stores, please visit BananaRepublic.com.

ABOUT OLIVIA PALERMO (@oliviapalermo)

Olivia Palermo has gained international recognition as one of fashion’s premier insiders with her work as a model, spokesperson and as the executive editor and creative director of OliviaPalermo.com – an award winning fashion and lifestyle website. Palermo has served as Guest Creative Director, Guest editor and Guest designer and spokesperson for brands. Palermo is currently the global style ambassador for Banana Republic.

Investor information:

investor_relations@gap.com
650-952-4400

Source: Gap Inc.

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Mochi ice cream make its debut at Whole Foods Market stores

Celebrated Japanese-American dessert now available at select U.S. stores

AUSTIN, Texas, 2017-Feb-01 — /EPR Retail News/ — Whole Foods Market is now offering mochi ice cream in some U.S. stores, including Wheaton, Illinois, Fremont, California, and its flagship store in Austin, Texas. The dessert is also available at all three 365 by Whole Foods Market™ stores.

Mochi ice cream is a popular Japanese-American dessert made by covering bite-sized balls of ice cream with a sweet Japanese rice dough.

“We offer a variety of seasonally-driven mochi ice cream flavors in roughly half of our stores, and it’s been a successful program that we plan on expanding,” said Andy Sasser, coordinator of culinary operations at Whole Foods Market.

Individual mochi ice creams are available in self-serve cases and shoppers can choose from a variety of flavors, including chocolate, mango and matcha green tea. Prices may vary slightly from store to store, but are around $2 per mochi.

Contact:

Kristina Bradford
kristina.bradford@wholefoods.com
225.287.6958

Source: Whole Foods Market

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Whole Foods Market to open at the historic Hahne & Company building in Newark, NJ on Wednesday, March 1

Newark, NJ, 2017-Feb-01 — /EPR Retail News/ — Whole Foods Market is excited to announce the opening of its newest location in Newark, NJ situated in the recently renovated and historic Hahne & Company building at 633 Broad Street on Wednesday, March 1 at 9 AM. Whole Foods Market Newark will boast 29,000 square feet of space providing the Newark community access to the highest quality produce, meat, seafood, baked goods, body care, grocery offerings and healthy eating resources in the area. The store marks Whole Foods Market’s third location in Essex County and 17th overall in New Jersey.

The Newark store, in collaboration with the Whole Cities Foundation, aims to improve individual and community health through partnerships, education, and broader access to nutritious food. Local organizations were invited to apply for the Fresh, Healthy Food Access Grant. The foundation will offer funding between $5,000 and $15,000 to each selected organization and hopes to support projects in all five wards of Newark. Winners for each grant will be announced on the store’s opening day

Opening day will begin with the company’s traditional bread breaking ceremony at 8:45 AM, followed by a wide range of exciting giveaways, vendor samplings, sales and more!  For additional information and announcements about Whole Foods Market Newark, please visit the store on Instagram @wholefoodsessexnj.

PRESS CONTACTS:
Michael Sinatra
Whole Foods Market
Michael.Sinatra@wholefoods.com
551.574.8031

Beverly Basiga
Sharp Communications
bb@sharpthink.com
212.829.0002 x.113

Source: Whole Foods Market

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AHOLD UPDATES ON ITS SHARE BUYBACK PROGRAM FROM January 23, 2017 UP TO AND INCLUDING January 27, 2017

Zaandam, the Netherlands, 2017-Feb-01 — /EPR Retail News/ — Ahold Delhaize repurchased 1,213,909 of Ahold Delhaize common shares in the period from January 23, 2017 up to and including January 27, 2017. The shares were repurchased at an average price of €19.94 per share for a total consideration of € 24.2 million. These repurchases were made as part of the €1 billion share buyback program announced on December 7, 2016.

The total number of shares repurchased under this program to date is 3,540,266 common shares for a total consideration of €70.1 million.

Download the share buyback transactions excel sheet for detailed individual transaction information from www.aholddelhaize.com/en/investors/shareholders/share-buy-back-programs/

Contact:

Ellen van Ginkel
Director External Communications
media.relations@aholddelhaize.com
+31 88 6595134

Source: Ahold Delhaize

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The Meijer Simply Give program 2016 generated record breaking $7.8 million for food pantries throughout Midwest

The Meijer Simply Give program 2016 generated record breaking $7.8 million for food pantries throughout Midwest

 

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., 2017-Feb-01 — /EPR Retail News/ — The Meijer Simply Give program set a record in 2016 with $7.8 million for food pantries throughout the Midwest, bringing the program’s overall donation to more than $28 million since its inception in 2008.

The retailer’s most recent campaign – held during the holiday season – resulted in more than $2.3 million alone for hungry families.

“It’s inspiring to see friends and neighbors come together to take care of hungry families throughout the communities we serve,” Executive Chairman Hank Meijer said. “We cannot thank our customers, team members and food pantry partners enough for continuing to rise to the challenge to support this incredible program.”

The Grand Rapids, Mich.-based retailer began its Simply Give program in 2008 as a way to help local food pantries throughout the Midwest achieve their mission of feeding hungry families. It runs three times a year when food pantries need it the most: spring, fall and holiday.

During each Simply Give campaign, customers are encouraged to purchase a $10 Simply Give donation card upon checkout. Once purchased, the donation is converted into a Meijer Food-Only Gift Card and donated directly to the local food pantry selected by the store for that campaign.

“Hunger is a problem that occurs in all of our communities, which is why the funds generated from Simply Give stay local,” said Cathy Cooper, Senior Director of Community Partnerships and Giving. “The Simply Give program gives everyone a chance to work toward ensuring no one has to go without food.”

A video featuring a food pantry volunteer is available on the Meijer Newsroom at http://newsroom.meijer.com/multimedia/categories/philanthropy-community-news.

About Meijer:

Meijer is a Grand Rapids, Mich.-based retailer that operates 230 supercenters and grocery stores throughout Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky and Wisconsin. A privately-owned and family-operated company since 1934, Meijer has a fundamental philosophy aimed at strengthening the communities it serves and proudly donates more than 6 percent of its net profit each year to charities throughout the Midwest. With hunger as a corporate philanthropic focus, Meijer partners with hundreds of food banks and pantries through its Simply Give and food rescue programs. Meijer also supports education, disaster relief, and health and wellness initiatives. For additional information on Meijer philanthropy, please visit www.meijercommunity.com. Follow Meijer on Twitter @twitter.com/Meijer and @twitter.com/MeijerPR or become a fan at www.facebook.com/meijer.

Contact:

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

Source: Meijer

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Stater Bros. Markets among Top 20 companies in the U.S. with exceptional job security for its employees according to Forbes.com

SAN BERNARDINO, CALIFORNIA, 2017-Feb-01 — /EPR Retail News/ — Stater Bros. Markets was named among the Top 20 companies in the United States to offer exceptional job security for its employees according to a report recently published on Forbes.com.

Since 1936, Stater Bros. has proudly served generations of loyal customers.  In the highly competitive Southern California supermarket industry, Stater Bros. remains an iconic mainstay that continues to grow and operate more stores each year than the year before.  Similarly, the company continues to have more employees working for the company each year than the prior year.

“The Stater Bros. tradition centers on taking good care of our valued customers and the loyal members of our Stater Bros. ‘Family’. We offer extensive training and programs to improve and expand our ‘Family’ members’ skills while providing a positive work environment with good jobs, competitive pay and excellent benefits,” stated Pete Van Helden, President and CEO of Stater Bros. Markets.  “Stater Bros. acknowledges the success and continued growth of our company is credited to the great team effort and hard work of both past and present members of our entire Stater Bros. ‘Family’,” Van Helden concluded.

Stater Bros. recently announced the construction of five “Blue Ribbon” Supermarkets to serve the Southern California communities of Menifee, Norco, Rancho Cucamonga, Riverside and Tustin Ranch.

For information regarding career opportunities visit http://www.staterbros.com/careers/

Stater Bros. was founded in 1936 in Yucaipa, California, and has grown steadily through the years to become the largest privately owned Supermarket Chain in Southern California and the largest private employer in both San Bernardino County and Riverside County.  The Company currently operates 169 Supermarkets, and there are approximately 18,000 members of the Stater Bros. Supermarket Family.  For more information, visit staterbros.com.

Contact:

1.855.STATERS
1.855.782.8377

Source: STATER BROS. MARKETS

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7‑Eleven sponsors Tony Kanaan’s No. 10 Indy car in four races in the 2017 Verizon IndyCar Series

7‑Eleven Returns as Veteran INDYCAR Driver Tony Kanaan Sponsor

IRVING, TEXAS, 2017-Feb-01 — /EPR Retail News/ — 7‑Eleven, Inc. will join with Chip Ganassi Racing (CGR)to sponsor popular Verizon IndyCar Series driver Tony Kanaan 14 years after first backing him at the start of his record-breaking career. 7‑Eleven will be an associate sponsor for Kanaan’s No. 10 Indy car in four races in the 2017 Verizon IndyCar Series – St. Petersburg (March 12), Long Beach (April 9), Indianapolis 500 (May 28) and Texas Motor Speedway (June 10). The 7‑Eleven logo will appear on Kanaan’s racing suit throughout the season.

“It’s an unbelievable feeling to be back in the 7‑Eleven family,” said Kanaan. “7‑Eleven was my home for most of my career in INDYCAR and they were with me for 14 out of my 17 wins. It’s definitely special to have them with me to celebrate my 20th INDYCAR season and I’m looking forward to getting them to victory circle again like we did many times in the past.”

The driving force of this collaboration was the strong relationship between the retailer and the racecar driver. 7‑Eleven was Kanaan’s primary sponsor in 2003, his first full year as an INDYCAR driver, and continued through the 2010 season. Kanaan won the 2004 Verizon IndyCar Series Championship and would eventually earn the “Iron Man” title of racing. He is also the only INDYCAR driver to complete every lap of every race during a season, all 3,305 of them, and holds the record for most consecutive starts with 265.

The partnership provides an opportunity to use the enthusiasm around auto racing to connect with customers and fans in a meaningful way. Kanaan is as popular off the track as he is a winning driver while on it. In 2014, he won “Most Popular Driver,” an honor voted by racing fans and one 7‑Eleven President and CEO Joe DePinto recognized long ago.

“Tony has proven himself to be an enthusiastic brand ambassador, both for the sport of racing and for 7‑Eleven,” DePinto said. “Whenever he and the show car made a store appearance, crowds of customers would turn out to meet him. Tony would stay and sign photographs and talk to 7‑Eleven customers for hours. He is a winner in everything he does.”

Kanaan’s first appearance for 7‑Eleven this go-round will be at the 7‑Eleven Experience in Las Vegas, an annual conference for the company’s franchisees.  A show car with the 7‑Eleven logo will be featured at the event being held Feb. 1-2.

“We’re really excited to have 7‑Eleven joining the team for the 2017 season and it’s great to see them back in the sport. They have such a strong history with Tony and we’re just glad that we can be a part of bringing that relationship back into racing,” said CGR President Steve Lauletta. “It’s a huge milestone for Tony to be celebrating his 20th season in INDYCAR and I think 7‑Eleven is a perfect partner to come on board and be a part of the celebration.”

A few things have changed since 7‑Eleven first sponsored Kanaan more than a decade ago. For one thing, the popular driver stays in touch with his fans on social media with hundreds of thousands of followers on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. And instead of being the new kid on the block, Kanaan is now a veteran driver on the Verizon IndyCar Series circuit. Many of his fans now have families, and their children follow him as well.

“The 7‑Eleven car was a staple in the Verizon IndyCar Series for years and most of my fans still come to me and talk about how great of a run we had together,” said Kanaan. “It’s natural for me to be excited that we are reuniting forces now at Chip Ganassi Racing.”

Kanaan’s favorite 7‑Eleven products? Coffee, great for long drives, sports drinks and better-for-you items like protein bars and fresh fruit.

About 7‑Eleven, Inc.

7‑Eleven, Inc. is the premier name and largest chain in the convenience-retailing industry. Based in Irving, Texas, 7‑Eleven® operates, franchises or licenses more than 61,000 stores in 17 countries, including 10,900 in North America. Known for its iconic brands such as Slurpee®, Big Bite® and Big Gulp®, 7‑Eleven has expanded into high-quality salads, side dishes, cut fruit and protein boxes, as well as pizza, chicken wings, cheeseburgers and hot chicken sandwiches. 7‑Eleven offers customers industry-leading private brand products under the 7-Select® brand including healthy options, decadent treats and everyday favorites, at an outstanding value. Customers also count on 7‑Eleven for payment services, self-service lockers and other convenient services. Find out more online at www.7‑Eleven.com, via the 7Rewards® customer loyalty platform on the 7‑Eleven mobile app, or on social media at Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Contact:

7‑Eleven, Inc.
Corporate Communications
media@7-11.com

Source: 7‑Eleven, Inc.

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Carrefour Express “Urban Life” opens in Milan

Carrefour Express “Urban Life” opens in Milan

 

Milan, 2017-Feb-01 — /EPR Retail News/ — The first revolutionary concept, Carrefour Express “Urban Life”, is now operating in Milan, which is not just a local supermarket, but also includes a “dining area for a tasty breakfast, a rich or light lunch break, to eat right there or to take home or to the office, a lounge bar to enjoy an appetizer together with one of the more than 200 Italian and international beers, a coworking space where you can work in comfort or just spend some time relaxing in peace.

The new concept store, located in Milan, at Corso Garibaldi 49, in the heart of Milan’s nightlife, offers more than 120 m2 of space on two floors. An innovative proposal that meets the changing needs of customers in bustling cities like Milan, where there is an increasingly strong need to combine pleasure, work and socializing.

Carrefour Express has actually redesigned and transformed the supermarket shelves into new areas, such as the cafe area, with a wide selection of desserts for a snack or for breakfast, or the gourmet deli department, with the option to order pizza, the Tokyo Street area, where the sushi is prepared fresh every day, or the artisanal ice cream counter. There are not only ready-made meals for quick take-away service, but also a rich gourmet offering, with constantly changing recipes that are suitable for all tastes, whether traditional or international, that you can enjoy in the dedicated dining area.

For those who don’t mind waiting in line for a little while, do not miss the salad bar and the juice corner, where the best seasonal products are prepared fresh every day, including fruit salads, yogurt, vegetable salads, soups, juices and smoothies. Customers can also create their own salads and plates to suit their needs and tastes.

But the absolute innovation is definitely the lounge bar with sofas, where Happy Hour is served every evening from 6 to 9 pm in the real Milanese tradition.
Keeping the region in mind, which is a characteristic that has always distinguished Carrefour Express, is also highlighted with the more than 100 products produced in Italy, which are made available to customers so they can taste the best of the Italian gourmet world.

For all request about the Carrefour Group (sales, financial results, governance, international,…), please contact the Carrefour Group media relations office:

. By phone:

Switchboard: +33 (0)1 41 04 26 00

For journalists: +33 (0)1 41 04 26 17

. By e-mail: presse_groupe@

Source: Carrefour Group

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Prime Now adds New Seasons Market to its growing selection of local stores in Seattle

  • Starting today in Seattle, Prime Now offers one- and two-hour delivery of thousands of fresh, local grocery products including wine and beer from New Seasons Market
  • Prime Now more than doubles its service reach for Bartell Drugs delivery

SEATTLE, 2017-Feb-01 — /EPR Retail News/ — Amazon Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN) announced today (Jan. 31, 2017) that Prime Now customers in Seattle can now shop thousands of fresh, organic and local products from New Seasons Market. Prime members will find organic produce and meats from the region’s best producers, delicious made-from-scratch foods, freshly baked organic, non-GMO breads and much more from New Seasons Market on Prime Now and have those items arrive at your doorstep with free two-hour delivery. Prime members can also order from a wide array of beer and wine for delivery from Prime Now in neighborhoods far beyond New Seasons Markets’ Mercer Island store including Bellevue, Issaquah, Laurelhurst, Renton and West Seattle.

“We’re excited to expand our relationship with New Seasons Market to Seattle and share their incredible selection of organic and local grocery items including wine and beer with our customers,” said Simoina Vasen, director of Amazon Prime Now. “Our growing selection from a variety of local stores makes Prime Now the one-stop destination for customers to get all their shopping needs delivered to their doorstep for free in just two hours.”

“Our customers love the convenience of getting all their grocery favorites from Diet Coke to more unique items like Page Tangerines from New Seasons in one quick delivery from Prime Now,” says Wendy Collie CEO of New Seasons Market. “We are thrilled to offer this service to introduce our selection to our growing customer base here in Seattle.”

In Seattle, Prime Now offers tens of thousands of items from Amazon, PCC Natural Markets, Uwajimaya, New Seasons Market, All The Best Pet Care, Bartell Drugs and popular local restaurants. Prime members can order everything on their grocery list from PCC’s made-daily, prepared foods and organic, local produce to Uwajimaya’s huge selection of Eastern-inspired products from cuts of meats to Asian snacks. Similarly, All The Best Pet Care affords customers the convenience of heavy pet food delivery, toys, pet beds and more. Customers can also shop thousands of health, beauty, grocery, snacks, local products and much more from Bartell Drugs. Prime Now has more than doubled its service reach for Bartell Drugs to include neighborhoods such as Everett, Greenwood and downtown Seattle as well as expanded delivery from All The Best Pet Care.

Prime Now is available in neighborhoods spanning Everett to Normandy Park to Issaquah. With Prime Now, one-hour delivery is $7.99 and two-hour delivery is free. New Seasons Market is available through Prime Now from 8 a.m. – 10 p.m. seven days a week.

Learn more about Amazon Prime Now at www.amazon.com/primenow.

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. Learn more about Amazon Prime Now, Shop, or Download the App at www.primenow.com.

About New Seasons Market

New Seasons Market is a West Coast neighborhood grocer with a people-first culture that builds and sustains relationships for the greater good. A champion of the regional food economy, it partners with farmers, ranchers and producers to deliver the best of the region and pairs local, organic favorites with grocery classics to offer customers choice, value and flexibility. The world’s first certified B Corp grocery store using the power of business for good, New Seasons started with a single store in Portland, Ore., in 2000 when three families and 50 friends united over shared values. Together with its 4,069 plus welcoming staff members, New Seasons offers a unique retail experience in which communities come together to realize the potential of a healthy, sustainable food system. New Seasons has 20 neighborhood stores in Washington, Oregon and California, as well as five New Leaf Community Market locations in Northern California, and commits 10 percent of its after-tax profits back to the communities it serves.

Media Hotline:

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

Source: Amazon.com, Inc.

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MELECTRONICS FRAUENFELD PASSAGE WIRD UMGEBAUT

Gossau, Switzerland, 2017-Feb-01 — /EPR Retail News/ — Ab dem 10. Februar wird der melectronics-Fachmarkt in der Passage Frauenfeld umgebaut. Die Filiale wird während einem Monat nach neuem Ladenbaukonzept komplett umgestaltet. Für die Umbauzeit wird ein Provisorium eingerichtet.

Das neue melectronics-Ladenbaukonzept hält auch in der melectronics-Filiale Passage Frauenfeld Einzug. Ab dem 10. Februar wird die Filiale im 1. Obergeschoss modernisiert. Nach rund einem Monat Umbauzeit ist die Eröffnung auf Anfang März geplant. Im Zentrum des neuen Konzepts steht die Verknüpfung mit dem Online-Shop melectronics.ch.

Provisorium im Erdgeschoss

Während des Umbaus muss die Kundschaft der Passage nicht auf die melectronics-Sortimente verzichten. Bis zur Eröffnung des umgebauten Fachmarkts wird auf knapp 120 m2 ein Provisorium im Erdgeschoss des Einkaufszentrums eingerichtet.

Source: Migros

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Sainsbury’s kicks off this year’s Active Kids programme to encourage children to eat well and exercise more

Sainsbury’s kicks off this year’s Active Kids programme to encourage children to eat well and exercise more

 

London, 2017-Feb-01 — /EPR Retail News/ — Skipping meals (19%) and cutting out food groups (43%) are both factors which 11-14 year olds believe can contribute towards leading a healthy lifestyle. In addition, when looking at how to make their lifestyles healthier, they do not consider limiting the amount of fast food (21%), fried food (58%) or sweets and chocolate (23%) they eat.

  • While 84% of 11-14yrs olds believe being healthy is important and 69% think they are already healthy, their lifestyle choices indicate that in reality they are not doing enough to stay healthy
  • Over one fifth refer to social media, YouTube stars and bloggers to find information on healthy eating
  • 41% of kids believe they should ‘probably do more’ when it comes to exercise
  • 43% of kids think that cutting out a food group will lead to a healthy lifestyle

The findings come from a Sainsbury’s report which launched today (31 January 2017) in line with the start of this year’s Active Kids programme, in a bid to encourage children to eat well and exercise more.

Sainsbury’s polled 2,000 11-14 year olds to find out more about their attitudes towards health, nutrition and fitness, and the findings revealed that 84% of young people do believe that being healthy is important and 69% also think their lifestyle is healthy. These youngsters know it’s important to maintain a balanced diet (95%), eat their 5-a-day (95%), have an hour of exercise a day (93%), get enough sleep (91%) and drink 6-8 glasses of water (87%). However, despite this, 11-14 year olds rarely put this into practice, with the most concerning results including:

  • Nearly three quarters (75%) do not limit the amount of sweets or chocolate they eat
  • Over half (58%) will only occasionally or never limit their intake of fried food
  • Over a quarter of children (27%) have a fizzy drink with their evening meal

The research also found that over one fifth (21%) of young people refer to social media, YouTube stars, bloggers and online forums to find information on healthy eating. As vloggers, Instagrammers and other social media “stars” are often not qualified experts in nutrition and their advice is not monitored, it can be potentially misleading or simply wrong. It is therefore not surprising that so many young people are skipping meals, eating fast food and cutting out food groups, and those statistics increase significantly when it comes to social media users (from 43% to 50% when looking at whether cutting out a food group can lead to a healthy lifestyle).

Furthermore, when it comes to exercise the report found that surprisingly 81% of those polled enjoy being active with girls being motivated by looking good (31%) and boys by celebrities and sports stars (28%). However, despite the positive attitude, 28% do not exercise for an hour or more a day outside of their compulsory sessions at school and find barriers such as bad weather (43%) and not being good at sport (26%) stop them doing more.

Rachel Carrington, Sainsbury’s Active Kids Manager, said “The 11-14 year old period is the time when children make the transition from primary to secondary school and have more freedom to make their own decisions about what they eat and the exercise they do. We commissioned this report to delve into the current issues surrounding young people’s health and fitness so we can continue to evolve our Active Kids programme to address the pressure points facing children and young teens today. Our ambition is to equip young people with the knowledge and support to make changes that allow them to eat well and live well both now and in the future. It’s clear from the findings that we must find solutions to ensure these trends do not become the new normal in society.”

The Sainsbury’s Active Kids voucher collection scheme, now in its thirteenth year, kicks off this month and is a long standing programme which donates millions of pounds worth of equipment and experiences to UK schools and kids’ clubs. So far the scheme has invested £170 million and recruited ambassadors from the world of health and fitness such as footballer Daniel Sturridge and Paralympian Jonnie Peacock, to promote a healthier way of life.

Talking about the programme, England and Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge said: “Encouraging children to participate in sport and to educate them about eating well is a real passion of mine. I helped in the kitchen from a young age and my dad and uncles were professional footballers so they taught me about the nutrition required for a professional athlete to perform at their best.”

As part of Sainsbury’s’ role to promote healthy living the brand will be working with businesses and public organisations to empower young people. From giving a greater availability of sports and facilities outside of school to ensuring responsible product promotion and clearer labelling and portion size guidelines, there is plenty that can be done help shift the dial when it comes to children’s current and future state of health.

Press Enquiries:
press_office@sainsburys.co.uk
020 7695 7295.

Source: Sainsbury

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EROSKI paga 12,8 millones de euros en intereses a los inversores en aportaciones y obligaciones subordinadas

EROSKI paga 12,8 millones de euros en intereses a los inversores en aportaciones y obligaciones subordinadas

 

  • El abono a los titulares de Aportaciones Financieras Subordinadas (AFS) se realizará hoy, 31 de enero, y el abono a los titulares de Obligaciones Subordinadas el 1 de febrero
  • Un inversor que haya adquirido AFS en 2002 ha percibido, en concepto de intereses, un 73% sobre el importe de su inversión y un 82% si acudió al canje por Obligaciones Subordinadas
  • Los intereses para el presente ejercicio quedan fijados en el 2,9% para las emisiones de AFS entre 2002 y 2004 y para las Obligaciones Subordinadas, y en el 2,4% para la emisión de AFS del 2007

ELORRIO,España, 2017-Feb-01 — /EPR Retail News/ — EROSKI procederá a abonar hoy, 31 de enero, los intereses anuales correspondientes a las Aportaciones Financieras Subordinadas (AFS) con una retribución a un tipo del 3,022% para las emisiones del 2002 y 2004, y del 2,522% para la emisión de 2007. Mañana, 1 de febrero, EROSKI abonará los intereses anuales correspondientes a las Obligaciones Subordinadas, retribuidas a un tipo del 3,022%. En total, serán 12,8 millones de euros los que EROSKI abonará en concepto de intereses a los tenedores de sus títulos de inversión.

Desde que EROSKI lanzara su primera emisión de AFS en 2002 para financiar su crecimiento, la cooperativa ha cumplido puntualmente con su compromiso de retribución anual de intereses, abonando ya un total de 345 millones de euros a sus inversores. La retribución de AFS y Obligaciones Subordinadas, que no está condicionada a los resultados económicos de la cooperativa, está referenciada al Euribor más un diferencial de 3 puntos para las emisiones de AFS entre 2002 y 2004 y para las Obligaciones Subordinadas, y un diferencial de 2,5% para la emisión de AFS del 2007.

Contando con este abono, un inversor que haya adquirido AFS en 2002, ha percibido ya un 73% sobre el importe de su inversión inicial en concepto de intereses y un 82% si acudió al canje por Obligaciones Subordinadas con vencimiento realizado hace un año. Un inversor con AFS desde 2004 ha cobrado ya el 61% en intereses o el 70% si acudió al canje, mientras que el de 2007 ha ingresado el 39% del valor de su inversión o el 47% si acudió al canje.

“Los titulares de Aportaciones han visto remunerada anualmente siempre su inversión según su valor nominal, independientemente de su cotización en el mercado financiero” ha puntualizado Jose Ramón Anduaga, Director Económico-Financiero de EROSKI. La retribución anual de las AFS está referenciada al valor nominal del título, al que no pueden imputarse pérdidas.

Para el año 2017, el interés queda fijado en un tipo del 2,9% (-0,100% + 3% de diferencial) para las emisiones de AFS entre 2002 y 2004 y para las Obligaciones Subordinadas, y del 2,4% (-0,100% + 2,5% de diferencial) para las emisiones de AFS del 2007, que serán abonados el próximo año.

Datos de contacto con el Departamento de Comunicación:
944 158 642
comunicacion@eroski.es

Source: Eroski

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British Land secures 83 per cent occupancy at 7 Clarges Street its prime commercial development in Mayfair

London, 2017-Feb-01 — /EPR Retail News/ — British Land announces today (31 JAN 2017) that the office space at 7 Clarges Street, its 51,000 sq ft prime commercial development in Mayfair, is 83 per cent let, having secured terms with Capula Investment Management, Quantum Pacific and Fortress Investment Group.

Capula Investment Management will occupy 23,700 sq ft across three floors whilst US-based global investment firm Fortress has leased the fourth floor (8,200 sq ft). Both deals are for a period of ten years.

Tim Roberts, Head of Offices and Residential, British Land, said: “The interest we’ve seen in 7 Clarges Street and these transactions evidence occupiers’ continuing appetite to make long term commitments for the best buildings in London’s key financial and cultural districts.

“Securing 83 per cent occupancy at 7 Clarges Street, just four months after its launch in September, is testament to the design and quality of the workspace and the appeal of the location.”

7 Clarges Street encompasses six floors of flexible triple-aspect office space, with employees able to enjoy natural light through floor-to-ceiling windows. Located within a five-minute walk of Green Park station, 7 Clarges Street benefits from strong transport links across London, with Crossrail also due to arrive at nearby Bond Street in 2018.

7 Clarges Street is the office element of a wider mixed-use development by British Land which also includes Clarges Mayfair, a luxury residential address of 34 new homes on the edge of Green Park. Due for completion later this year, 23 apartments at Clarges Mayfair have now been sold, some at record-breaking values. The remaining 11 apartments will be marketed on completion of the development.

CBRE advised British Land on 7 Clarges Street. Simon Garfield Property advised Capula Investment Management, DeVono advised Quantum Pacific and Colliers advised Fortress.

Notes to Editors

About British Land
We are one of Europe’s largest publicly listed real estate companies. We own, manage, develop and finance a portfolio of high quality UK commercial property, focused on Retail and London Offices and Residential. We own or manage total assets of £19.0 billion (British Land share is £13.9 billion) as valued at 30 September 2016. Our properties are home to over 1,200 different organisations ranging from international brands to local start-ups.

Our strategy is to create Places People Prefer. It is based on long term trends and creates a portfolio suited to current and future needs which are aligned to modern lifestyles. We employ our placemaking skills, and increasingly our mixed-use expertise to expand the appeal to a broader range of occupiers and drive long term performance.

Retail accounts for 49% of our portfolio. We create outstanding places for modern consumer lifestyles, places to shop, eat and be entertained. Comprising over 20 million sq ft of Retail and Leisure space across regional and local multi-let destinations, superstores, department stores and leisure assets, the Retail portfolio is modern, flexible and adaptable to a wide range of formats.

Office and Residential accounts for 49% of our portfolio. It comprises 7.6 million sq ft of well-connected office-led campuses and ‘campus-lite’ clusters of high quality buildings. Office campuses include Regent’s Place and Paddington Central in the West End and Broadgate (50% share) in the City. Other assets include The Leadenhall Building, York House, 10 Portman Square and Marble Arch House and our residential assets are at Clarges Mayfair, The Hempel Collection and Aldgate Place.

Two per cent of our portfolio is at Canada Water – a 46 acre redevelopment opportunity in our medium term pipeline to create a new mixed-use urban centre for London.

Sustainability is embedded throughout our business. Our places become part of their local communities and promote health, improve productivity and increase enjoyment. We protect asset value and generate income from energy generation and efficiency, materials innovation and flood risk reduction, and develop skills and opportunities to help local people and businesses grow.

In April 2016 c received the Queen’s Award for Enterprise: Sustainable Development, the UK’s highest accolade for business success for economic, social and environmental benefits achievements over the last five years.

Further details can be found on the British Land website at www.britishland.com.

Enquiries:

Investor Relations:
Jonathan Rae
British Land
020 7467 2938

Media Relations:
Sian Disson
FTI Consulting
020 3727 1747

Source: British Land