Chennai, India, 2017-Mar-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — Leading POS technology provider Millennium Soft-Tech India has bagged the “Highest Growth Partner Award for 2016” from the multinational conglomerate Honeywell India.
The award was presented to Millennium India, a pioneer in introducing Point of Sale (POS) technology products in India, at the recently held ‘REIMAGINE 2017 Leadership Forum’, an annual partner conference hosted by Honeywell Safety and Productivity Solutions, in New Delhi.
Honeywell India team presenting the award to Mr Bhaskar Venkatraman at the REIMAGINE 2017 Leadership Forum event held in New Delhi. Millennium Director V Nandakumar (second from right) also attended the event.
The event was held in an effort to unite top leaders from Honeywell’s strong network of channel partners and distributors in India.
Commenting on receiving the coveted award from world’s leading engineering giant, Bhaskar Venkatraman, the CEO and Director of Millennium India said: “It’s a great honour to receive from the technology major with whom we have more than a decade of successful association. Honeywell, with their innovative and customer-centric products, has played a key role in automating retail sector in India.”
“With diversified industrial automation products, Honeywell has broken into many applications simplifying several core operations. For Point Of Sale applications in particular, Honeywell has been offering wide array of technology products which have revolutionised several core industries like healthcare, automobile, hospitality, retail businesses, food and beverage, transport and logistics, to name a few. We look forward to have even more stronger ties with Honeywell in the years to come and would like to see the Brand becoming synonymous with every retail business,” he further said.
For retail and non-retail sectors focusing point of sale and other applications, Honeywell has been the leader in providing several innovative hardware products like area imager scanner, barcode scanner, barcode printer, POS hand held terminal, laser scanner and linear imager scanner.
The partner conclave was a unique opportunity for Honeywell India business leaders and its partners to make deeper connections within the business and new relationships among its broad partner network, a top Honeywell official said.
Round table discussions, industry presentations, and networking sessions were attended by key customers, partners, and top SPS India and global leaders at REIMAGINE 2017 Leadership Forum in India.
MUNICH, Germany, 2017-Mar-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — To survive in the fiercely competitive fashion market, retailers must be able to impress their customers. Customer loyalty has evolved along with technological advancements, products and their prices can be compared at any time, and only businesses who stand out will be able to secure sales and retain their customers.
However, modern technologies have not only shaped what’s now being demanded of fashion companies, but, when implemented properly, can strengthen customer relations. attune provides retailers with the technological foundation and real-time insights to facilitate a personalised and seamless shopping experience across all channels.
Nowadays, being able to differentiate between different types of shoppers is no longer enough. To engage with modern shoppers, data such as shopping history, location, behavioural patterns and style must be collected and leveraged at every possible touchpoint.
“The right offer or promotion at the right time will not only generate more sales, but will also help retain customers,” says Gerald Reiser, Regional Director, Europe of attune.
attune knows how to motivate customers to buy: “Upsell by offering a matching bag to go with the jacket that was recently purchased. Weeks before a sale, bargain hunters are sent a discount voucher for 20-30% off certain products, allowing for a higher margin before the markdowns begin. Customers who live further away receive offers to shop online. And vice versa, targeted promotions drive local customers to the store, increasing footfall and allowing shop assistants to make the sale.”
A prerequisite for a successful customer retention strategy is an efficient, integrated IT infrastructure that delivers real-time data, enabling fashion retailers to engage with each customer individually and increase their purchase frequency.
attune’s integrated solution offering to strengthen customer loyalty:
> SAP Fashion Management
> SAP Customer Activity Repository
> SAP Hybris Commerce
Get in touch at bahtiyar.can@attuneconsulting.com or visit www.attuneconsulting.com to schedule a demo of an integrated landscape consisting of the above solutions.
The Wendy’s Company recognizes employees for extraordinary community volunteerism and engagement
Wendy’s Restaurant Manager Matthew Esteves Named Community Ambassador of the Year
DUBLIN, Ohio, 2017-Mar-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — The Wendy’s Company proudly supports employee volunteerism through the Community Ambassador Grant Program. Each year, Wendy’s® employees are recognized for extraordinary community volunteerism and engagement with a $2,500 grant to the organization they support. The Community Ambassador of the Year is selected from this group and awarded an additional $10,000 for their organization. Matthew Esteves, a Wendy’s Restaurant Manager in Swansea, MA, has been named Wendy’s 2016 Community Ambassador of the Year for his leadership and long-term commitment to the Fall River National Little League in Fall River, MA.
“We were excited to see a record number of employees nominate organizations for a Community Ambassador Grant this year,” said Liliana Esposito, Chief Communications Officer. “Our founder Dave Thomas taught us to Do The Right Thing and Give Something Back, and it’s inspiring to hear how passionate our employees are about living these values in their lives outside of Wendy’s, as well.
Company employees from across the Wendy’s family – from restaurant team members to regional field offices to corporate employees – are eligible to apply for a grant benefitting an organization they support with their time, talents, and resources. Wendy’s is proud to recognize these 11 employees, from all areas of the Company, for their philanthropic efforts:
Matthew Esteves supporting Fall River National Little League, Fall River, MA (Community Ambassador of the Year) – Matthew played in the league as a child, began volunteering with the league in 2006 at age 16, and is currently the league President. The league helps children ages 4-12 learn about baseball while also having fun and learning valuable life lessons. Giving back is also a focus of the league, which hosts an annual Autism Awareness Tournament. All of the money raised from the tournament is donated to Community Autism Resources, a local organization that supports families with autistic children. Matthew is a Wendy’s Restaurant Manager in Swansea, MA.
Jonathan Gall supporting Camp Quality Illinois, Frankfort, IL – Jonathan has been involved with Camp Quality—a camp for children with cancer and other life threatening illnesses—for 21 years, both as a camper and as a camp volunteer. Camp Quality is 100% free of charge and gives children a week-long carefree camp experience. As a former camper, Jonathan volunteers as a camp companion and serves as an inspiring role model to kids battling illness. He also assists with fundraising events throughout the year. Jonathan is a Wendy’s Restaurant Manager in Naperville, IL.
Crista Miller supporting Ohio History Connection, Columbus, OH – Crista has been involved with the Ohio History Connection’s Ohio Village—a living history museum that provides a firsthand view of life in Ohio during the American Civil War—for more than six years and volunteers with the Village’s historical-educational experience. Crista began volunteering to celebrate her love of history and to put her sewing skills to good use by creating period clothing for the Village. When she’s not roleplaying, Crista participates in sewing workshops, Village Cleanup Days, and annual holiday events. Crista enjoys engaging with Ohio Village visitors while learning and exploring different parts of American history through interpretation. Crista is a Senior Customer Care Advocate at the Wendy’s Restaurant Support Center in Dublin, OH.
Dawn Schuler supporting Manorville Community Ambulance, Manorville, NY – Manorville Community Ambulance serves the residents of Manorville and surrounding areas 365 days a year, 24 hours a day. Dawn is an active member of the organization and volunteers by answering emergency calls and assisting with CPR, first aid, and drug abuse awareness classes for the community. She has received awards for being a top responder and was chosen as Probationary Member of the Year by New York State Senator Kenneth LaValle in 2016. Dawn is a Wendy’s Training Restaurant Manager in Lake Ronkonkoma, NY.
Joe Hippler supporting Easterseals Central and Southeast Ohio, Columbus, OH – Joe became involved with Easterseals Central and Southeast Ohio in 2013, is currently Vice President of the Board of Directors, and will be appointed President in 2018. He serves on several committees and enjoys volunteering at various fundraising events each year. Through his involvement with Easterseals, Joe has seen firsthand the impact the organization is having on children with special needs and believes that every child with a disability is extra special. Joe is the Vice President of Corporate Accounting & Financial Reporting at the Wendy’s Restaurant Support Center in Dublin, OH.
Bob VanVliet supporting Habitat for Humanity Mid-Ohio/Dublin Adopt-A-House Partnership, Columbus, OH – Bob started volunteering with Habitat for Humanity Mid-Ohio 18 years ago and has helped the partnership complete 19 homes for low-income families. While he spends time onsite during construction season, Bob also serves on the leadership team, coordinates volunteers, leads fundraising efforts, and conducts training sessions for other volunteers. Bob has worked for Wendy’s for 35 years and is currently a Project Manager for New Product Testing & Integration at the Wendy’s Restaurant Support Center in Dublin, OH.
Ernie Beneventi supporting Peace Ranch, Caledon East, ON, Canada – Peace Ranch provides supportive housing and rehabilitative services for adults who have serious mental illness, enabling them to live and work in a rural community atmosphere. Ernie volunteers at the ranch by channeling his construction and woodworking skills to help build and maintain the residence and structures to support the animal farm. He has constructed and maintained items such as animal cages, organic farming supports and structures, post-harvest systems, and spice drying equipment. He also interacts with ranch clients and has passed on some of his construction skills and knowledge in the process. Ernie is a Construction Manager for Wendy’s Restaurants of Canada.
Bry Roth and Mackenzie Sullivan supporting Homeless Families Foundation, Columbus, OH – Bry and Mackenzie both support the Homeless Families Foundation as volunteer reading mentors for the Foundation’s Dowd Education Center’s after school program. They work with middle school students on reading skills and comprehension, and both have seen a significant jump in reading levels in the students they mentor. Bry and Mackenzie both work on the Communications team at the Wendy’s Restaurant Support Center in Dublin, OH.
Eva Rasnake supporting Wonder Lake Neighbors Food Pantry, Wonder Lake, IL – Eva approached Wonder Lake Neighbors Food Pantry about hosting a fundraiser at her Wendy’s restaurant and soon realized she also wanted to support the organization as a volunteer. She spends her free time fundraising, stocking shelves with donated food, and assisting pantry clients with their shopping. Eva has worked for Wendy’s since 1985 and is a Training Restaurant Manager in McHenry, IL.
Richard DiPippa supporting Mastic Beach Fire Department, Mastic Beach,NY – As the top responder for the past five years, Richard supports the Mastic Beach Fire Department as a certified interior firefighter and rescue diver. His talents were invaluable during Super Storm Sandy, as his team completed multiple water rescues to save local citizens and their pets. Richard also supports the department as a recruiter, trainer, and fire prevention educator. Richard is a Training Restaurant Manager in Islip, NY.
About The Wendy’s Company
The Wendy’s Company (NASDAQ: WEN) is the world’s third largest quick-service hamburger company. The Wendy’s system includes more than 6,500 franchise and Company restaurants in the United States and 30 countries and U.S. territories worldwide. For more information, visit www.aboutwendys.com.
SOURCE The Wendy’s Company
Elizabeth Drake, 614-764-3586, Elizabeth.Drake@wendys.com
Power Rangers Collection Now Available at buildabear.com, buildabear.co.uk and in U.S., Canada and U.K. Build-A-Bear Workshop Stores
ST. LOUIS, 2017-Mar-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — Build-A-Bear Workshop, Inc. (NYSE:BBW), an interactive destination where Guests can create personalized furry friends, and Saban Brands, creator of the 24-year Power Rangers franchise, today unveiled two new Make-Your-Own Power Rangers furry friends, as well as an exciting line of costumes, accessories and a sound chip, all based on the original, hit TV series, “Mighty Morphin Power Rangers.” This launch marks the first time Power Rangers furry friends have been offered at Build-A-Bear Workshop.
Starting today, a Make-Your-Own Power Rangers Red Ranger Bear and a Make-Your-Own Power Rangers Pink Ranger Bear are available at buildabear.com, buildabear.co.uk and in U.S., U.K. and Canada Build-A-Bear Workshop stores.
The complementary Power Rangers costume and accessory line was designed to fit classic Build-A-Bear Workshop furry friends and includes:
Power Rangers Red Ranger costume (U.S., U.K. and Canada stores; U.S. and U.K. web)
Power Rangers Pink Ranger costume (U.S., U.K. and Canada stores; U.S. and U.K. web)
Power Rangers Blue Ranger costume (U.S., U.K. and Canada stores; U.S. and U.K. web)
Power Rangers Black Ranger costume (U.S. and Canada stores; U.S. and U.K. web)
Power Rangers Yellow Ranger costume (U.S. and Canada stores; U.S. and U.K. web)
Power Rangers blaster (U.S., U.K. and Canada stores; U.S. and U.K. web)
Power Rangers pajamas, slippers and sleeping bag (U.S. and Canada stores; U.S. web)
Power Rangers “Theme Song” sound chip (Select U.S. and Canada stores; U.S. web)
“The Power Rangers franchise has resonated with fans of all ages around the world for 24 years largely in part because many people see themselves within at least one or all of the Rangers,” said Janet Hsu, chief executive officer, Saban Brands. “With Build-A-Bear Workshop, fans can now use their creativity to further identify and personalize their experience with the Power Rangers.”
“For more than two decades, the Power Rangers franchise has inspired imaginations and spurred creativity in children and young adults,” said Jennifer Kretchmar, chief product officer, Build-A-Bear Workshop. “As we celebrate our 20th year in business, the new Power Rangers collection at Build-A-Bear Workshop will allow original enthusiasts and the next generation of adventure-seeking fans to hug and play with the iconic rangers.”
The collection is launching just weeks ahead of Saban’s Power Rangers, Lionsgate’s highly-anticipated feature film releasing on March 24, 2017. To celebrate, Build-A-Bear Workshop stores will offer Mighty Morphin Power Rangers paper masks to Guests who visit U.S. and Canada locations from March 24 – 26, while supplies last. Guests can also visit buildabear.com/power-rangers/ to shop the entire collection, watch Power Rangers video clips and find downloadable coloring sheets and activities.
After the hit series “Mighty Morphin Power Rangers” launched in 1993, Saban’s “Power Rangers” quickly became a pop culture phenomenon. The series is one of the longest running and most-watched kids action series in television history, spanning more than 800+ episodes and 24 seasons of “Power Rangers.”
About Build-A-Bear
Celebrating 20 years of business in 2017, Build-A-Bear is a global brand kids love and parents trust that seeks to add a little more heart to life. Build-A-Bear Workshop has approximately 400 stores worldwide where Guests can create customizable furry friends, including company-owned stores in the United States, Canada, Denmark, Ireland, Puerto Rico, the United Kingdom and China, and franchise stores in Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, Mexico and the Middle East. The company was named to the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For® list for the ninth year in a row in 2017. Build-A-Bear Workshop, Inc. (NYSE:BBW) posted a total revenue of $364.2 million in fiscal 2016. For more information, visit buildabear.com.
About Saban Brands
Formed in 2010 as an affiliate of Saban Capital Group, Saban Brands (SB) acquires and develops a world-class portfolio of properties in the entertainment and lifestyle sectors. SB applies a global 360-degree management approach to growing and monetizing its brands through content, media, marketing, distribution, licensing and retail to markets worldwide andconsumers of all ages. Saban Brands Entertainment Group (SBEG) develops innovative branded content that resonates with consumers across all media platforms. SBEG’s growing entertainment portfolio of brands includes Power Rangers, Popples, Glitter Force, Cirque du Soleil Junior – Luna Petunia, La Banda and others in development. Saban Brands Lifestyle Group (SBLG) drives major expansion within the company’s diverse portfolio of fashion and lifestyle properties. SBLG’s portfolio currently includes Paul Frank, Macbeth, Mambo and Piping Hot. SB operates a global network of offices in Los Angeles, London and Sydney. For more information, visit www.sabanbrands.com.
About Saban’s Power Rangers
Saban’s Power Rangers franchise is the brainchild of Haim Saban, creator and producer of the original “Mighty Morphin Power Rangers” hit series that launched in 1993. Following its introduction, “Power Rangers” quickly became the most-watched children’s television program in the United States and remains one of the top-rated and longest running kids live-action series in television history. The series follows the adventures of a group of ordinary teens who morph into superheroes and save the world from evil. It is seen in more than 150 markets, translated into numerous languages and a favorite on many key international children’s programming blocks around the world. For more information, visit www.powerrangers.com.
ST. LOUIS, 2017-Mar-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — Build-A-Bear Workshop, Inc. (NYSE:BBW)—an interactive destination where Guests can make their own personalized furry friends—was just named to the 2017 Best Companies to Work Forlist, according to global research and consulting firm Great Place to Work® and Fortune. This is the ninth consecutive year the retailer has been recognized.
Build-A-Bear Workshop ranked No. 76 out of 100 companies, based on employee ratings of workplace culture, including the level of trust employees feel towards leaders, the pride they take in their jobs and the camaraderie they experience with co-workers. This year marks the 20th year in business for Build-A-Bear Workshop, as well as the 20th anniversary of the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For list. Great Place to Work research shows that list winners continue to beat industry rivals when it comes to talent retention and demonstrate higher levels of productivity than peers.
“Being named to the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For list for nine consecutive years is an incredible honor in our 20th year in business,” said Sharon Price John, chief executive offer, Build-A-Bear Workshop. “Our associates create unforgettable experiences and help our Guests make memories every day. We are grateful for their contributions that have made Build-A-Bear Workshop an incredible place to work for nearly two decades.”
The Best Companies to Work For is one of a series of rankings by Great Place to Work® and Fortune based on employee survey feedback from Great Place to Work®-CertifiedTM organizations. Build-A-Bear Workshop also ranked as a best workplace on the following lists by Great Place to Work® and Fortune:the 2016 Best Workplaces for Women list (for the second consecutive year); the 2016 Best Workplaces in Retail list (for the second consecutive year); the 2016 Best Workplaces for Diversity (for the second consecutive year); the 2016 Best Workplaces for Millennials list (for the second consecutive year); the 2016 Best Workplaces for Flexibility list; and the 2015 Best Workplaces for Camaraderie list.
For more information about Build-A-Bear Workshop, visit buildabear.com and follow the brand on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram.
About Build-A-Bear
Celebrating 20 years of business in 2017, Build-A-Bear is a global brand kids love and parents trust that seeks to add a little more heart to life. Build-A-Bear Workshop has approximately 400 stores worldwide where Guests can create customizable furry friends, including company-owned stores in the United States, Canada, Denmark, Ireland, Puerto Rico, the United Kingdom and China, and franchise stores in Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, Mexico and the Middle East. The company was named to the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For® list for the ninth year in a row in 2017. Build-A-Bear Workshop, Inc. (NYSE:BBW) posted a total revenue of $364.2 million in fiscal 2016. For more information, visit buildabear.com.
About The Fortune 100 Best Companies To Work For®
To identify the 100 Best Companies to Work For®, each year Fortune partners with Great Place to Work to conduct the most extensive employee survey in corporate America. The ranking is based on feedback from more than 232,000 employees at Great Place to Work–Certified™ companies with more than 1,000 employees.
About Great Place to Work® Great Place to Work® is the global authority on high-trust, high-performance workplace cultures. Through proprietary assessment tools, advisory services, and certification programs, including Best Workplaces lists and workplace reviews, Great Place to Work provides the benchmarks, framework, and expertise needed to create, sustain, and recognize outstanding workplace cultures. In the United States, Great Place to Work produces the annual Fortune “100 Best Companies to Work For®” and a series of Great Place to Work Best Workplaces lists, including lists for Millennials, Women, Diversity, Small and Medium Companies and over a half dozen different industries. Great Place to Work® provides executive advisory and culture consulting services to businesses, non-profits, and government agencies in over 50 countries across six continents.
Follow Great Place to Work online at www.greatplacetowork.com and on Twitter at @GPTW_US.
St. Petersburg, Russia, 2017-Mar-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — Lenta, (LSE, MOEX: LNTA) one of the largest retail chains in Russia, is pleased to announce the opening of its fourteenth supermarket in St. Petersburg.
The new store is a Lenta small format supermarket located at 78 Geroev av., Sosnovyi Bor city, Leningrad region. The store has a total area of 710 sq.m with 407 sq.m of selling space and is open from 8.00 am till 11.00 pm, seven days a week. A broad product assortment of 3,600 SKUs has been selected specifically for residents of St. Petersburg and includes Lenta’s private labels and federal product ranges alongside local produce. The store has 4 cash registers. The property is leased by Lenta.
This opening in St. Petersburg is Lenta’s third supermarket opening in 2017 and brings the total number of Lenta stores to 195 hypermarkets in 78 cities across Russia and 52 supermarkets in Moscow, St. Petersburg, Novosibirsk and the Central region.
About Lenta
Lenta is the largest hypermarket chain in Russia (in terms of selling space) and the country’s fifth largest retail chain (in terms of 2015 sales). The Company was founded in 1993 in St. Petersburg. Lenta operates 195 hypermarkets in 78 cities across Russia and 52 supermarkets in Moscow, St. Petersburg, Novosibirsk and the Central region with a total of approximately 1,167,584 sq.m of selling space. The average Lenta hypermarket store has selling space of approximately 5,700 sq.m. The average Lenta supermarket store has selling space of approximately 900 sq.m. The Company operates seven owned distribution centres.
The Company’s price-led hypermarket formats are differentiated in terms of their promotion and pricing strategies as well as their local product assortment. The Company employed approximately 45,689 people as of 31 December 20161.
The Company’s management team combines a mix of local knowledge and international expertise coupled with extensive operational experience in Russia. Lenta’s largest shareholders include TPG Capital and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, both of which are committed to maintaining high standards of corporate governance. Lenta is listed on the London Stock Exchange and on the Moscow Exchange and trades under the ticker: ‘LNTA’.
A brief video summary on Lenta’s business and its Big Data initiative can be seen here.
SOURCE: Lenta
For further information please visit www.lentainvestor.com, or contact:
Lenta
Anna Meleshina,
Public Relations & Government Affairs Director
Tel: +7 812 363 28 53
E-mail: anna.meleshina@lenta.com
St. Petersburg, Russia, 2017-Mar-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — Lenta, (LSE, MOEX: LNTA) one of the largest retail chains in Russia, is pleased to announce the opening of its thirteenth supermarket in St. Petersburg.
The new store is a Lenta large format supermarket located at 77 bld.3 Yuritskogo av., Luga city, Leningrad region. The store has a total area of 1,491 sq.m with 980 sq.m of selling space and is open from 8.00 am till 11.00 pm, seven days a week. A broad product assortment of 6,900 SKUs has been selected specifically for residents of St. Petersburg and includes Lenta’s private labels and federal product ranges alongside local produce. The store has 70 parking spaces and 8 cash registers. The property is leased by Lenta.
This opening in St. Petersburg is Lenta’s second supermarket opening in 2017 and brings the total number of Lenta stores to 195 hypermarkets in 78 cities across Russia and 51 supermarkets in Moscow, St. Petersburg, Novosibirsk and the Central region.
About Lenta
Lenta is the largest hypermarket chain in Russia (in terms of selling space) and the country’s fifth largest retail chain (in terms of 2015 sales). The Company was founded in 1993 in St. Petersburg. Lenta operates 195 hypermarkets in 78 cities across Russia and 51 supermarkets in Moscow, St. Petersburg, Novosibirsk and the Central region with a total of approximately 1,167,177 sq.m of selling space. The average Lenta hypermarket store has selling space of approximately 5,700 sq.m. The average Lenta supermarket store has selling space of approximately 900 sq.m. The Company operates seven owned distribution centres.
The Company’s price-led hypermarket formats are differentiated in terms of their promotion and pricing strategies as well as their local product assortment. The Company employed approximately 45,689 people as of 31 December 20161.
The Company’s management team combines a mix of local knowledge and international expertise coupled with extensive operational experience in Russia. Lenta’s largest shareholders include TPG Capital and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, both of which are committed to maintaining high standards of corporate governance. Lenta is listed on the London Stock Exchange and on the Moscow Exchange and trades under the ticker: ‘LNTA’.
A brief video summary on Lenta’s business and its Big Data initiative can be seen here.
For further information please visit www.lentainvestor.com, or contact:
Lenta
Anna Meleshina,
Public Relations & Government Affairs Director
Tel: +7 812 363 28 53
E-mail: anna.meleshina@lenta.com
Retail Week Awards 2017: Shop Direct wins OC&C pureplay etailer of the year three times in a row ; CEO Alex Baldock crowned Clarity retail leader of the year
Liverpool,UK, 2017-Mar-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — Shop Direct last night (9 March 2017) became the first company to win the OC&C pureplay etailer of the year three times in a row at the Retail Week Awards 2017, the industry’s equivalent of the Oscars.
CEO Alex Baldock was also crowned the Clarity retail leader of the year to cap a great night for the UK’s second largest pureplay, which counts Very.co.uk and Littlewoods.com amongst its digital department store brands.
The Retail Week Awards 2017, which attracted over 1,600 attendees from across the industry, were judged by a panel of sector heavyweights including leaders from Debenhams, IKEA and Karen Millen.
They praised the company for doing ‘pioneering things’ and entering the digital era ‘in style, going further than almost any business’ as it scooped the award for best pureplay.
The judges also celebrated Baldock for ‘the tough choices’ he has made during Shop Direct’s transformation as he picked up the award for retail leader.
Alex Baldock said: “To have the strong, innovative and successful business we’re building recognised by our peers is a massive compliment.
“And to win best pureplay etailer for the third time in a row shows we’re becoming the world class digital retailer we’re striving to be.
“I’m honoured to be recognised as leader of the year, but it’s the strength of our entire team that’s driven our success. This is our award.
“We’ve had another fantastic 12 months, but we’ve only scratched the surface of what’s possible.
“Over the next 12 months, AI will start to change the game for us, from personalisation through to credit; V by Very will become a £200m brand, and we’re making a big investment in building a digital workplace fit for the future.
“It all adds up to another year of growth and innovation – and we can’t wait for what’s next.”
ABOUT SHOP DIRECT
Shop Direct is the UK’s second largest pureplay digital retailer, with annual sales of almost £1.9 billion. Our digital department store brands are Very.co.uk, Littlewoods.com, VeryExclusive.co.uk and LittlewoodsIreland.ie. We receive an average of more than 1.2 million website visits every day, with 68% of online sales completed on mobile devices.
We exist to make good things easily accessible to more people. With our department store range of famous brands, market-leading ecommerce and technology capabilities and unique financial services products offering flexible ways to pay, we’re well placed to deliver on that promise.
We sell more than 1,300 famous brands, including big name labels and our own exclusive brands. We have four million customers and deliver 49 million products every year. Our free click and collect service, Collect+, delivers to 5,800 stores across the country, increasing ease and convenience for customers.
For more information on Shop Direct, visit www.shopdirect.com or follow us on Twitter at @ShopDirect.
The Container Store Honored for 18th Consecutive Year on Fortune’s List of 100 Best Companies to Work For (Photo: Business Wire)
Retailer Sustains Position on Employer of Choice List for 18 Years in a Row
DALLAS, 2017-Mar-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — The Container Store® (NYSE:TCS), the nation’s originator and leading retailer of storage and organization products, announces its #49 ranking on Fortune’s annual list of 100 Best Companies to Work For. The announcement marks 18 consecutive years that the retailer has been included on the employer of choice list, which is based on employee ratings of their workplace culture, including the level of trust they feel towards leaders, the pride they take in their jobs and the camaraderie they experience amongst co-workers.
“Being included on this prestigious list is an honor and a tribute to our incredible employees who make our workplace special and productive,” said Melissa Reiff, CEO, The Container Store. “Taking excellent care of our customers – and all of our stakeholders – begins with taking care of our employees and providing an environment of inspiration, innovation and agility. I am very appreciative of the creative work our employees do every day to make our company progressive and customer centric. As we strive to create an even better place to work and to shop, we will continue to operate our business through the lens of our Foundation Principles and our commitment to conscious leadership in everything we do.”
As part of today’s announcement, Fortune also recognized the retailer for its 1 Great Person = 3 Good People Foundation Principle, which contributes to creating a culture that brings out the best in employees and makes them feel that everyone matters. They also mentioned that The Container Store offers health insurance for part-time employees, paid sabbaticals and 263 hours of training for full-time employees in their first year. Over the past year, Great Place to Work® and Fortunehave released additional top workplace lists in which the retailer was honored, including the Best Workplaces in Texasand Best Workplaces for Women. To find out more about the company’s unique employee first culture, approach to business and career opportunities, visit www.whatwestandfor.com or www.containerstore.com/careers.
The Container Store (NYSE: TCS) is the nation’s leading retailer of storage and organization products – a concept they originated in 1978. Today, with locations nationwide, the retailer offers more than 11,000 products designed to save space and time, a suite of custom closet systems and an array of digital shopping services. Visit www.containerstore.com for more information about store locations, the product collection and services offered. Visit www.containerstore.com/blog for real solutions from the really organized and www.whatwestandfor.com to learn more about the company’s unique culture.
About Great Place to Work:
Great Place to Work® is the global authority on high-trust, high-performance workplace cultures. Through proprietary assessment tools, advisory services, and certification programs, including Best Workplaces lists and workplace reviews, Great Place to Work provides the benchmarks, framework, and expertise needed to create, sustain, and recognize outstanding workplace cultures. In the United States, Great Place to Work produces the annual Fortune “100 Best Companies to Work For®” list and a series of Great Place to Work Best Workplaces lists including lists for Millennials, Women, Diversity, Small and Medium Companies and over a half dozen different industry lists. Great Place to Work provides executive advisory and culture consulting services to businesses, non-profits, and government agencies in over 50 countries across six continents.
Outdoor co-op is one of 12 companies to be included on annual top employer list since 1998
SEATTLE, 2017-Mar-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — For the 20th consecutive year, REI employees earned the co-op a spot on the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For list, according to global research and consulting firm Great Place to Work® and Fortune magazine. REI is ranked number 28 and is one of 12 companies to be included since the annual list began in 1998. This year, the co-op is one of four companies headquartered in Washington state to be recognized on the top employer list.
“This is an amazing honor and we are all very proud to be recognized for 20 straight years. Our placement on this list for the past two decades is a reflection of our employees throughout the country, so I want to thank all of them for making REI a great place to work,” said Jerry Stritzke, REI CEO and president. “At REI, we put our purpose above profits and I think that’s a huge reason why people love working here, stay here for a long time and do such great, impactful work. Our employees have had a passion for the outdoors since our founding in 1938, and that passion continues to unite and inspire us, giving each of us a strong sense of what matters most, no matter where we live or work.”
A Great Place to Work
The co-op’s more than 12,000 employees make REI a great place to work by being highly engaged with and committed to serving the outdoor community. Engagement scores routinely exceed 85 percent. Fully 93 percent of co-op employees believe in REI’s vision, based on the results of the Trust Index, a survey sent by the Great Places to Work Institute to a random sample of REI employees. REI’s combined pay and benefits lead the industry, and retail turnover is almost half the industry standard and retention of full-time employees is 90 percent.
REI is a purpose-led organization that prioritizes stewarding the outdoors and sustainability. Eighty-seven percent of all employees said in a recent survey they believe that REI is an environmentally responsible company, citing actions such as the co-op’s new LEED Platinum and Net Zero Energy distribution center, nearly flat energy use (+4.2%) since 2008 even though sales grew by nearly 70 percent, and the use of 100 percent renewable energy at all REI locations.
More than a Job: Joining the Co-op Community
REI looks for people who love the outdoors and want to align their skills and experience with the co-op’s core values: authenticity, quality, service, respect, integrity and balance. REI is currently seeking applicants for a number of positions at its headquarters, including information technology and merchandising roles. The retail team is looking to fill positions for at many locations, including new stores opening later this year. Interested candidates can visit http://rei.jobs/.
REI offers a number of unique perks and programs designed to help employees lead balanced lives and enjoy the outdoors:
Pay to go outdoors: Every single co-op employee receives paid time off to go outside and play—two Yay Days a year where they can participate in a favorite activity, learn something new or help create inspirational places through an outdoor stewardship project.
#OptOutside: Employees also receive an additional paid day off on Black Friday to spend time outdoors with family and friends. In 2016, thousands of employees chose to #OptOutside and more than 6 million people and more than 700 organizations joined the movement.
Commuting support: REI provides showers, towels, lockers and bicycle storage to commuters at most locations nationwide. The co-op also offers a 50% pre-tax subsidy on public transit expenses, parking subsidy and subsidized vanpooling and ride-sharing options.
Deals on gear: REI has discount programs for the gear sold in stores, making it easier for employees to try new gear and build experience to share with members. Employees can also receive up to $300 in REI private brands products for any outdoor activity, as long as it’s deemed a challenge for them.
Health and well-being: REI offers a benefit package to full- and part-time employees that covers the majority of medical plan costs and the full cost for basic life and disability coverage for employees averaging 20 hours or more per week.
About REI
REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of more than 6 million active members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. REI has 147 stores in 36 states. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI.com/REI-Garage or the free REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. You can take the trip of a lifetime with REI Adventures, a global leader in active adventure travel that runs 170 custom-designed itineraries on every continent. REI’s Outdoor School is run by professionally-trained, expert-instructors who teach beginner- to advanced-level courses about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to–and steward–the outdoor places that inspire us.
About The Fortune 100 Best Companies To Work For®
To identify the 100 Best Companies to Work For®, each year Fortune partners with Great Place to Work to conduct the most extensive employee survey in corporate America. The ranking is based on feedback from more than 276,000 employees at Great Place to Work–Certified™ companies with more than 1,000 employees.
About Great Place to Work® Great Place to Work® is the global authority on high-trust, high-performance workplace cultures. Through proprietary assessment tools, advisory services, and certification programs, including Best Workplaces lists and workplace reviews, Great Place to Work provides the benchmarks, framework, and expertise needed to create, sustain, and recognize outstanding workplace cultures. In the United States, Great Place to Work produces the annual Fortune “100 Best Companies to Work For®” and a series of Great Place to Work Best Workplaces lists, including lists for Millennials, Women, Diversity, Small and Medium Companies and over a half dozen different industries. Great Place to Work provides executive advisory and culture consulting services to businesses, non-profits, and government agencies in over 50 countries across six continents.
SOURCE: REI
Media Requests
For more information or to request an interview, please contact REI Public Affairs at
(253) 395-5958, prrequests@rei.com
CINCINNATI, 2017-Mar-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — The Kroger Co.’s (NYSE: KR) Board of Directors today declared a quarterly dividend of 12¢ per share to be paid on June 1, 2017 to shareholders of record as of the close of business on May 15, 2017.
Kroger today (3/9/2017) also announced an incremental $500 million share repurchase program, supplementing the current authorization, which has approximately $120 million remaining as of March 8, 2017.
“Kroger’s share repurchase authorization reflects our Board of Directors’ confidence in our long-term strategy and our ability to generate value for shareholders,” said Rodney McMullen, Kroger’s chairman and CEO. “We remain committed to delivering value to shareholders. Over the last four quarters, the company has returned more than $2.2 billion to shareholders through share buybacks and dividends combined.”
Kroger has delivered double-digit compound growth in its dividend since it was reinstated in 2006. The company expects, subject to board approval, to have an increasing dividend over time.
Every day, the Kroger Family of Companies makes a difference in the lives of eight and a half million customers and 443,000 associates who shop or serve in 2,796 retail food stores under a variety of local banner names in 35 states and the District of Columbia. Kroger and its subsidiaries operate an expanding ClickList offering – a personalized, order online, pick up at the store service – in addition to our 2,255 pharmacies, 784 convenience stores, 319 fine jewelry stores, 1,445 supermarket fuel centers and 38 food production plants in the United States. Kroger is recognized as one of America’s most generous companies for its support of more than 100 Feeding America food bank partners, breast cancer research and awareness, the military and their families, and more than 145,000 community organizations including schools. A leader in supplier diversity, Kroger is a proud member of the Billion Dollar Roundtable.
This press release contains a forward-looking statement, as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, about the future performance of the company. This statement is based on management’s assumptions and beliefs in light of the information currently available to it. Such statement is indicated by the word “expect.” Our ability to continue to increase our dividend over time, will be affected by our inability to generate free cash flow at the levels anticipated and our failure to generate expected operating results. This forward-looking statement is subject to uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially. We assume no obligation to update the information contained herein. Please refer to Kroger’s reports and filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission for a further discussion of these risks and uncertainties.
SOURCE The Kroger Co.
Kroger Family of Stores Media Contacts
The Kroger Co. – General Office
Keith Dailey
Director, Media Relations/Corporate Communications
Office: 513-762-1304
Cell: 513-257-4955
Email: keith.dailey@kroger.com
CINCINNATI, 2017-Mar-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) today announced that Mike Schlotman, Kroger’s executive vice president and CFO, will address investors at the Bank of America Merrill Lynch Consumer & Retail Tech Conference on Wednesday, March 15, 2017 at 1:50 p.m. (ET).
The presentation will be broadcast online at ir.kroger.com. Click on “Events, Presentations & Webcasts” to access the event. The presentation will be available in an archived format for one week following the conference.
Every day, the Kroger Family of Companies makes a difference in the lives of eight and a half million customers and 443,000 associates who shop or serve in 2,796 retail food stores under a variety of local banner names in 35 states and the District of Columbia. Kroger and its subsidiaries operate an expanding ClickList offering – a personalized, order online, pick up at the store service – in addition to our 2,255 pharmacies, 784 convenience stores, 319 fine jewelry stores, 1,445 supermarket fuel centers and 38 food production plants in the United States. Kroger is recognized as one of America’s most generous companies for its support of more than 100 Feeding America food bank partners, breast cancer research and awareness, the military and their families, and more than 145,000 community organizations including schools. A leader in supplier diversity, Kroger is a proud member of the Billion Dollar Roundtable.
SOURCE The Kroger Co.
Kroger Family of Stores Media Contacts
The Kroger Co. – General Office
Keith Dailey
Director, Media Relations/Corporate Communications
Office: 513-762-1304
Cell: 513-257-4955
Email: keith.dailey@kroger.com
LONDON, 2017-Mar-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — A specialty cake-making company from Wolverhampton is hoping for a rise in business after taking on its first commercial unit to cope with a demand for its tasty bakes.
Babbaloos Bakery, launched by friends Shelley Birch and Deborah Cox in 2015, is moving from Deborah’s home kitchen in Lanesfield, Wolverhampton, to a small unit at The Pensnett Estate, Kingswinford, after agreeing a three-year lease with LCP, which owns and manages the industrial estate.
Shelley, aged 32, who began baking with 34-year-old Deborah when they were both children, said they were thrilled to realise their dream of opening a cake business – three years after they started out making bespoke cake-toppers.
“We are bakers and best friends so to be doing it for a living is a dream come true,” said Shelley.
“It’s happened quicker than we’d imagined. We made just cake toppers but customers wanted the whole package and once we started to make bespoke novelty cakes, demand grew.
“It was in our five-year business plan to grow into a commercial premises but after just a year of trading, it was obvious that we would have to move now to continue to cope with demand. We’re excited to have our own unit and aim to grow the business over the next year or so.”
Paula James, industrial lettings manager at LCP, said: “The Pensnett Estate offers a huge range of premises for occupiers – from small start-up office spaces and industrial units of just 500 sq ft to large buildings of 20,000 sq ft and more. We are delighted to welcome our first bakery to the estate and we are looking forward to working with Shelley and Deborah, ensuring their new business premises are right for their needs.”
Babbaloos Bakery is already booked to attend 11 major food festivals this year and the pair are also hoping to book a further ten during 2017. It has been commissioned to make a cake for Cosford Museum and in March the pair are also entering for the first time Cake International, the renowned sugarcraft and baking show.
The Pensnett Estate is one of the largest secure business estates in Europe, and home to almost 200 businesses in over 2.4 million sq.ft of commercial property. Tenants include Sven Christiansen, Intralox, Midsteel Group, Glendenning Plastics, Bookers Cash & Carry and Dudley NHS.
Company to close Hungary facility, streamlining supply chain operations to support DN2020 business transformation plan
NORTH CANTON, Ohio and PADERBORN, Germany, 2017-Mar-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — Diebold Nixdorf, Incorporated (NYSE: DBD) today announced plans to close its manufacturing facility located near Budapest in Gyál, Hungary as part of the company’s recently announced DN2020 multiyear business transformation program. Production activities from the Hungary site will be integrated into other facilities in the company’s global manufacturing network.
Diebold, Incorporated opened the Hungary plant in 2006. It assembles and ships automated teller machines (ATMs) and related components, primarily for customers in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, and Latin America. Production and related operations at the facility will be phased out by the end of the third quarter in 2017. The Hungary facility currently employs approximately 150 people. Separation packages will be made available to support impacted employees.
“As with any project of this kind that impacts our people, these are difficult decisions,” said Juergen Wunram, senior vice president and chief operating officer, Diebold Nixdorf. “Closing the Hungary plant and consolidating production into larger and more scalable facilities will enable us to be more competitive, agile and efficient for our customers, and help ensure the future success of the company.”
Restructuring charges associated with this action include the cost of closing the facility, transferring equipment and impairing idle assets. These costs are fully reflected in the company’s previously disclosed guidance for 2017.
About Diebold Nixdorf
Diebold Nixdorf, Incorporated (NYSE:DBD) is a world leader in enabling connected commerce for millions of consumers each day across the financial and retail industries. Its software-defined solutions bridge the physical and digital worlds of cash and consumer transactions conveniently, securely and efficiently. As an innovation partner for nearly all of the world’s top 100 financial institutions and a majority of the top 25 global retailers, Diebold Nixdorf delivers unparalleled services and technology that are essential to evolve in an ‘always on’ and changing consumer landscape.
Diebold Nixdorf has a presence in more than 130 countries with approximately 25,000 employees worldwide. The organization maintains corporate offices in North Canton, Ohio, USA and Paderborn, Germany. Shares are traded on the New York and Frankfurt Stock Exchanges under the symbol ‘DBD’. Visit www.DieboldNixdorf.com for more information.
Media Relations, Mike Jacobsen, APR, +1-330-490-3796, michael.jacobsen@dieboldnixdorf.com or Andreas Bruck, +49 151 1512 3018, andreas.bruck@dieboldnixdorf.com; Investor Relations, Steve Virostek, +1-330-490-6319, steve.virostek@dieboldnixdorf.com
The Bon-Ton Stores to host its Goodwill donation drive from Wednesday, March 15 through Saturday, April 1
Bon-Ton Family of Department Stores Accepting Clothing Donations for Goodwill® March 15 through April 1
MILWAUKEE, 2017-Mar-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. (NASDAQ: BONT), which operates Bon-Ton, Bergner’s, Boston Store, Carson’s, Elder-Beerman, Herberger’s and Younkers stores invites the community to participate in its Goodwill donation drive during the company’s semi-annual Goodwill Sale, which begins Wednesday, March 15 through Saturday, April 1. During the 18-day event, customers can drop off bags of donated goods during their visit to any Bon-Ton department store and receive coupons for up to 30 percent off on new fashions. It’s a great time to do some spring cleaning and put those items no longer needed in your closets to good use by donating them to Goodwill.
The community is encouraged to get involved by donating items such as ladies, kids and men’s clothing, accessories, shoes, luggage and household textiles. Customers’ donations, collected during the Bon-Ton Goodwill Sale, will be sold in Goodwill stores and the revenues will create employment training, skills development, education and job placement for people in local communities. In return for each and every item donated to Goodwill, Bon-Ton customers receive generous coupons for up to 30 percent on apparel and 15 percent on cosmetics and fragrances to use in-store and online. It’s the perfect time to save on the new spring fashion arrivals, designer brands, shoes, accessories, home décor, beauty brands and nearly everything in the store. The Goodwill Sale coupons can be used on regular and sale priced items making this event the best sale of the season.
“Donations are vital in helping local Goodwill organizations provide the job training and career related services such as résumé preparation and skills training that people need to find employment and build their careers,” said Kim Zimmer, chief marketing officer and senior vice president of global development of Goodwill Industries International. “Bon-Ton customers can take pride in knowing that their donations are fueling a social enterprise that is helping people earn jobs in their communities.”
Local Goodwill organizations and The Bon-Ton family of department stores have partnered for the Bon-Ton Goodwill Sale for 23 years. Customers eagerly anticipate the event, which represents the largest and longest-standing cause partnership and department store donation drive for Goodwill in the United States.
“March is the perfect time to refresh your wardrobe and home. By making a donation to Goodwill you not only receive discounts on new spring arrivals at Bon-Ton, you’re doing good for your community,” said Kathryn Bufano, president and chief executive officer of The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. “The Bon-Ton Goodwill Sale is one of our favorite events of the year because it demonstrates Bon-Ton’s commitment to our communities.”
In 2016, donations received during the Bon-Ton Goodwill Sale helped Goodwill provide 592,000 hours of job placement and training in local communities. Goodwill provides services such as career counseling, computer training, financial education, mock interviews, resume preparation, and job search advice among many other services. See Steve’s story about how he earned a job with help from Goodwill.
For customers who would like to contribute in a different way, they may make a $1 donation in-store or online to receive additional Goodwill Sale event coupons. The donations collected will benefit Goodwill’s employment placement and job training programs. For more information about the Bon-Ton Goodwill Sale and how to enter for a chance to win a $500 shopping spree, visit bonton.com/goodwill.
About The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc., with corporate headquarters in York, Pennsylvania and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, operates 263 stores, which includes 9 furniture galleries and four clearance centers, in 25 states in the Northeast, Midwest and upper Great Plains under the Bon-Ton, Bergner’s, Boston Store, Carson’s, Elder-Beerman, Herberger’s and Younkers nameplates. The stores offer a broad assortment of national and private brand fashion apparel and accessories for women, men and children, as well as cosmetics and home furnishings. The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. is an active and positive participant in the communities it serves. For further information, please visit thebontonstoresinc.com or the company’s web site at bonton.com. Join the conversation and be inspired by following Bon-Ton on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and the fashion, beauty and lifestyle blog, #LoveStyle.
ABOUT GOODWILL INDUSTRIES INTERNATIONAL Goodwill Industries International (GII) is a network of 163 community-based, autonomous organizations in the United States and Canada with a presence in 13 other countries. GII is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that is recognized by GuideStar with its Platinum Seal of Approval, the organization’s highest rating for charities. GII was also ranked by Enso as the #1 brand doing the most good in the world, and was the only nonprofit brand rated in Forbes’ 20 most inspiring companies for three consecutive years. Local Goodwill organizations are innovative and sustainable social enterprises that create job training programs, employment placement and other community-based programs by selling donated clothing and household items in more than 3,200 stores collectively and online at shopgoodwill.com®. Local Goodwill organizations also build revenue and create jobs by contracting with businesses and government to provide a wide range of commercial services, including packaging and assembly, food services preparation, and document imaging and shredding. Last year, local Goodwill organizations collectively placed 312,000 people in employment in the United States and Canada. In addition, more than 35 million people used computers and mobile devices to access Goodwill education, training, mentoring and online learning services to strengthen their skills. To learn more, visit goodwill.org.
For more information or to find a Goodwill location near you, use the online locator at Goodwill.org or call (800) GOODWILL. Follow us on Twitter: @GoodwillIntl and @GoodwillCapHill, and find us on Facebook: GoodwillIntl or Instagram: GoodwillIntl.
eBay’s branded podcast Open for Business returns for another season
San Jose, California, 2017-Mar-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — After a successful first season that saw eBay’s branded podcast rise to the top of the iTunes Charts, Open for Business is returning for another season full of real-life stories, lessons and advice for entrepreneurs and business owners.
Every entrepreneur, small business or startup must navigate hundreds of tough choices and questions when launching and growing a business. How do you bring a new product or service to market? How do you hire the right people? How do you stand out against the competition? And, what’s the best way to finance the whole pursuit?
At eBay, we live and breathe entrepreneurship. For over 20 years our marketplace has empowered millions of entrepreneurs around the world to pursue their passions. Every day we strive to provide our sellers with the tools and resources they need to grow their business. We believe real-world business advice can be an invaluable resource and one of the most important factors in determining success. It’s for this reason that eBay and Gimlet Creative partnered to create the Open for Business podcast.
Created for anyone interested in or already building a business from the ground up, the podcast brings together eBay sellers, notable business leaders and a diverse cast of characters across the entrepreneurship community. Each episode features candid conversations, stories of triumph and failure, and the valuable lessons learned along the way.
After the success of season 1, which included a stint as the No. 1 business podcast on iTunes, and the positive conversations it generated, we are pleased to announce season 2 of Open for Business.
Season 2 will take the same entertaining and behind-the-scenes approach to shed light on the issues no one tells you about, the situations you wish you knew how to handle, and the information you should know when starting or growing a business. Host John Henry, an entrepreneur himself, returns to ask new and seasoned business owners about a variety of issues that are top of mind in today’s competitive business landscape. We also dig into what can be tough conversation topics for any business owner, like how to recover from failure and how to evolve your business to stay on top.
The first of six episodes – How to Reinvent Your Business – will be available on Thursday, March 16 and will explore the stories of small business owners who have had to rethink and pivot their entire strategy due to challenges such as increased competition, loss of customers and other unforeseen obstacles.
You can subscribe and download the episodes on iTunes, Google Play or stream directly from our Open for Business page, where we’ll also be posting behind-the-scenes details and other interesting tips specific to selling on eBay.
This year we’re also excited to take Open for Business on the road, creating opportunities for listeners to give their entrepreneurial IQs a workout and connect with likeminded entrepreneurs. The first event will take place in Austin on March 13 during SXSW Interactive. Designed as an entrepreneurship bootcamp, the event will give attendees a chance to roll up their sleeves and tackle important business challenges – from marketing, to financing to culture and brand building – alongside founders, seasoned entrepreneurs and small business experts. We will also be live recording a fireside chat on workplace culture, which you can catch as a bonus episode later this season. If you’re in town, be sure to stop by. If not, we hope to be in a city near you soon.
Venice, Italy, 2017-Mar-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — In a beautiful old building in Venice, which used to house a movie theatre, a new DESPAR store has opened. The elegant supermarket with its high ceilings and renovated frescoes, makes for a truly unique shopping experience.
Aspiag Service, the SPAR licence holder for North-Eastern Italy, has invested over 2.5m Euros in renovating the building and fitting the store: “We are aware of the privilege and responsibility of being in this outstanding location,” said a spokesperson for the company.
Sustainability instore and product offer
The new store in Venice makes use of equipment with a low environmental footprint. For example, the lighting is 100% LED and downlights have been installed directly on the store’s shelving, in order to preserve the building’s features and frescoes. The heat generated by the cooling units is fully reused for heating the store and producing hot water. Special units treat any steam and fumes generated instore, thus preventing odours and emissions. Doors on the refrigerated units and wall cabinets allow for energy savings and limit any humidity or cold air release into the store. From an aesthetic point of view, the low wooden shelving allows customers to fully appreciate the beauty of the room without any obstructions.
Within the sales surface of 580m2, the store has an assortment of 8,700 SKUs, comprised almost exclusively of food items. It is equipped with seven checkouts, four of which are self-scanning stations, although when necessary, these can easily be turned into staffed checkouts, ensuring great standards of customer service.
The store has long opening hours, from 8 am to 9 pm, seven days a week, to meet customer demand. The store employs 41 people – a larger team than other similarly sized stores due to the longer opening hours.
The product range has been specifically adapted to suit local residents, providing a complete assortment for daily shopping needs. Thanks to its large choice of Food-to-Go products, it also caters for the needs of tourists, passers-by and students.
The coming months will see the launch of a home delivery service. At present, it is already possible to make reservations for items from the deli and bakery departments, introducing convenient solutions.
Investing in local community restorations
A building that was in a state of decay, DESPAR Nordest saw the potential it had and did all that was necessary to rescue it. The renovation process was supervised throughout by the Directorate for Architectural Heritage of Venice. All of the solutions developed for the store’s shelving, lighting and other systems had to be installed in such a way that the walls and their paintings would remain fully intact.
DESPAR Italia has previous experience of opening stores in historic buildings in the cities of Trento, Verona and Vicenza. The most recent example is the EUROSPAR store, which opened in 2014 in Trento in a building from the Renaissance era, Palazzo Nogarola Guarenti. Then too, the company invested about three million Euros and committed itself to protecting and preserving the works of art in the building.
SPAR South Africa helps customers stay in shape with new exercise programme, My Home Gym
Amsterdam, The Netherlands, 2017-Mar-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — As part of its commitment to promoting an active and healthy lifestyle, SPAR South Africa has launched an exciting new exercise programme, My Home Gym, which is helping customers stay in shape.
An eight-week long programme, SPAR’s My Home Gym can be followed in the comfort of one’s own home. It has been designed by a registered biokineticist and is based on three sessions per week with cardio days in between. Participants are encouraged to continue after the eight weeks have finished, building the training into their regular exercise routine.
Videos, which outline the programme and demonstrate each exercise, can be downloaded from SPAR South Africa’s website. There are also printable guides to assist with stretching, warming-up and cardio routines, as well as weekly calendars for planning. Best of all, it’s completely free!
“A healthy lifestyle is all things in moderation,” says SPAR South Africa Food Safety Manager & Dietitian, Lauren Wilson.
“We want our customers and our employees to focus on healthy eating and exercise but we understand that with busy work and family schedules, keeping this up can be tough. Not many people can afford the cost of being a member of a gym, let alone a personal trainer. That’s why we have partnered with professional biokineticist, Joe Xaba, who has helped us put together an exercise programme that can be followed at home, at your own pace.
“The videos show each exercise’s technique, explained in detail by Joe and demonstrated by our host, Lelo. Once you’ve seen how to execute each exercise correctly, you can start the programme.”
The exercise campaign is the latest addition to SPAR South Africa’s programme of promoting an active lifestyle. The SPAR Partner also organises a series of road races in cities around the country, which promote women’s running and is the main sponsor of the South African Netball team and the KwaZulu-Natal soccer club, AmaZulu.
Take a look at the SPAR South Africa website for more information on My Home Gym and start your eight-week exercise programme today.
ALTOONA, Pa., 2017-Mar-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — Sheetz, one of America’s fastest growing family-owned and operated convenience store chains, is pleased to announce that it is one of the 2017 Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For, according to global research and consulting firm Great Place to Work® and Fortune Magazine. This list, now in its 20th year, recognizes companies that have exceptional workplace cultures.
Sheetz, which ranked 87th, was selected among hundreds of companies across the nation vying for a place on the 2017 list, and the ranking improved on Sheetz’s 2016 standing by ten positions. Applicant companies opt to participate in the selection process, which includes an employee survey and an in-depth questionnaire regarding their programs and employee practices. Great Place to Work® then evaluates each application using its unique methodology based on five dimensions, including credibility, respect, fairness, pride and camaraderie.
“Sheetz is committed to investing in its people, rewarding employees, and attracting the best talent for the job, whether it’s in the distribution centers, kitchens, corporate office, or one of our store locations. We strive to create a great working environment where our employees feel valued and have all the resources they need,” said Sheetz, Inc. President/CEO Joe Sheetz. “We do this by providing all of our employees with the opportunity to grow; instilling a culture of respect; and ensuring that all employees understand the importance of their job and the role they play in the larger company. We are a family-owned business and are very proud of the culture and environment we have created and nurtured at Sheetz.”
In 2016, Sheetz announced both plans to hire 8,000 employees companywide as well as the investment of more than $15 million to increase employee wages. Sheetz reaffirmed its commitment to employees when the company announced that salaried employees will earn a minimum base salary of $47,500 despite a federal judge’s injunction in November 2016, which prevented the FLSA minimum wage regulation from going into effect on December 1, 2016.
Headquarters in Altoona, Pa.
Operates 540+ store locations in six states
Serving 1.5 million customers per day
Family owned – 65th anniversary in 2017
40 new and rebuilt stores in 2017
On the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For list in 2014/2016/2017
Listed in 2016 as a Fortune Best Workplace for Women (Top 12)
Selected by Fortune in 2016 as a Best Workplace for Millennials (Top 35)
Named by Fortune in 2016 as one of the Best Workplaces in Retail (Top 10)
Named one of the Best Places to Work in Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, Ohio and North Carolina
Convenience Store Chain of the Year/Convenience Retailer of the Year
Locations in six states: Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, Ohio and Maryland
Total yearly sales of more than $5.6 billion
More than 17,500 employees
Employee bonuses paid in 2016: More than $53 million
Corporate Charities Supported
Sheetz For the Kidz™, a charitable organization operated by Sheetz employees, provided more than $1.6 million in 2016 to ensure approximately 8,800 children in need have gifts at Christmas. Through this program, Sheetz for the Kidz™ has helped more than 100,000 children since 1992 raising $22.9 million.
Through Make-A-Wish, Sheetz For the Kidz™ sponsored 48 family trips to Walt Disney World each year. Since 2005, Sheetz has been able to grant more than 450 wishes!
Special Olympics: In 2017, with the help of its generous customers, Sheetz will donate more than $650,000 to the Special Olympics. Sheetz was Pennsylvania’s largest contributor as well as an inductee into the Special Olympics Hall of Fame.
In addition, Sheetz donates millions of dollars in cash and products to worthwhile community endeavors each year.
TheFuture
In fiscal year 2018, Sheetz is projected to operate 600 stores with projected capital investment (including new and rebuilt unit growth) of eight percent annually.
“Congratulations to the 2017 100 Best,” said Michael C. Bush, CEO of Great Place to Work. “These leading companies are at the vanguard of a new business frontier, where organizations know they have to develop the full human potential of all their employees. They are working to build Great Places to Work for all, which are better for business, better for people and better for the world.”
Organizations named on the list see many benefits that include better financial performance, less employee turnover, higher levels of customer satisfaction and loyalty, more innovative and creative thinking, higher productivity and enhanced public perception.
About Sheetz, Inc.
Established in 1952 in Altoona, Pennsylvania, Sheetz, Inc. is one of America’s fastest-growing family-owned and operated convenience store chains, with more than $5.6 billion in revenue and more than 17,500 employees. The company operates more than 540 store locations throughout Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Virginia, Maryland, Ohio and North Carolina. Sheetz provides an award-winning menu of M•T•O® sandwiches and salads, which are ordered through unique touch-screen order point terminals. All Sheetz convenience stores are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Recognized by Fortune as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For, Top 12 Best places to work for Women and Top 35 Best Workplaces for Millennials, Sheetz is committed to offering employees sustainable careers built on an inspiring culture and community engagement. For more information, visit www.sheetz.com or follow us on Twitter (@sheetz), Facebook (www.facebook.com/sheetz) and Instagram (www.instagram.com/sheetz).
About Great Place to Work® Great Place to Work® is the global authority on high-trust, high-performance workplace cultures. Through proprietary assessment tools, advisory services, and certification programs, including Best Workplaces lists and workplace reviews, Great Place to Work provides the benchmarks, framework, and expertise needed to create, sustain, and recognize outstanding workplace cultures. In the United States, Great Place to Work produces the annual Fortune “100 Best Companies to Work For®” and a series of Great Place to Work Best Workplaces lists, including lists for Millennials, Women, Diversity, Small and Medium Companies and over a half dozen different industries. Great Place to Work® provides executive advisory and culture consulting services to businesses, non-profits, and government agencies in over 50 countries across six continents.
Nugget Markets claims a spot on FORTUNE Magazine’s “100 Best Companies to Work For” list for the 12th time
Woodland, CA, 2017-Mar-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — Already known as an extraordinary grocery experience, local, family-owned and -operated Nugget Markets just proved once again that it’s also an extraordinary place to work. For the 12th time in as many years, the local grocer has claimed a spot on FORTUNE Magazine’s “100 Best Companies to Work For” list. Consistently placing in the top 37 companies, Nugget Markets came in at #30 this year.
“Our associates make all the difference,” said CEO and President, Eric Stille. “At Nugget Markets, it’s not just a job. Our environment is like a family that has fun, and we all come together to create something very special.”
Now in its 90th year, Nugget Markets has built a strong reputation for extraordinary quality and service, both within the community and its own walls. In one of the anonymous surveys that went into this year’s ranking, an associate likened Nugget Markets to “the Disneyland of grocery stores,” where managers feel like “just another friend at work.”
Along with a fun, family culture, generous benefits have helped earn Nugget Markets a place on FORTUNE’s list for more than a decade. The industry-leading benefits include a 4% 401k match and zero health premiums for full and part-time associates. In addition, the company has never had a layoff in its 90-year history. For more information about Nugget Markets’ ranking, read the Great Place to Work review.
Family owned and operated since 1926, Nugget Markets is a full-line grocery store in Northern California that provides high-quality perishables and organics, chef-prepared foods, specialty grocery items and conventional goods in a European marketplace setting. The Nugget Market, Inc. family of stores includes 12 Nugget Markets in Northern California, Fork Lift by Nugget Markets in Cameron Park, Food 4 Less Woodland and their most recent additions, Sonoma Market and Glen Ellen Village Market in the Sonoma Valley.
METHODOLOGY
To identify the 100 Best Companies to Work For, each year Fortune partners with Great Place to Work to conduct the most extensive employee survey in corporate America. Each company’s score is based on Trust Index survey feedback from a random sample of employees. People anonymously assess their workplace, including the quality of their leaders, support for their personal and professional lives, and their relationships with colleagues. Survey results are compared with peer organizations of like size and complexity and are highly reliable statistically. In addition, Great Place to Work scores a Culture Audit management questionnaire from each company, which reports details such as compensation and benefits, hiring practices, recognition, training, and diversity programs.
SOURCE: Nugget Markets, Inc.
Press Contact
Kate Stille
VP of Marketing and Communications
Nugget Market, Inc.
Mobile: (530) 219-1573
Office: (530) 669-3350
Raley’s eCart offers time saving convenience with “shop online, pick-up at store” option
Fair Oaks, CA, 2017-Mar-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — Raley’s, parent company to Nob Hills Foods, has expanded their eCart program to many of their Bay Area stores. The enhanced system improves upon the current online order and curbside pickup solutions across all existing eCommerce-enabled locations.
The platform is part of Raley’s commitment to making customers’ lives easier by delivering a personalized, time-saving shopping experience. eCart allows shoppers in 95 stores to order groceries online and pick up curbside at a local Raley’s, Bel Air Market or Nob Hill Foods.
Last year, in partnership with Unata, Raley’s re-launched both a new eCommerce website and an improved mobile application. The program features an enhanced user interface that allows customers to move seamlessly between a mobile device and a desktop computer.
“The way Raley’s delivers groceries is evolving and expanding. Our new eCart locations will better serve our Bay Area customers by providing a personalized online shopping experience,” said Keith Knopf, Raley’s President & Chief Operating Officer. “Our system distinguishes us from the competition because it provides the same level of value and quality products our customers have come to expect, but in an online experience.”
eCart is a natural extension of Raley’s commitment to world class customer service: shoppers have the ability to specify produce preferences which are hand selected by a Raley’s ecommerce personal shopper. They also can save: the first three orders for all customers are free and the shopper fee is waived for any orders of $150 or more. Payment is conveniently accepted at a customer’s car or online.
Bay Area stores with improved E-Cart services include:
Raley’s in Fremont, Pleasanton, Santa Rosa, Napa, San Pablo, Ukiah, Petaluma, Fairfield, Antioch, Brentwood, Rohnert Park, and Benicia.
Nob Hill Foods in Gilroy, Morgan Hill, Hollister, Salinas, Campbell, Watsonville, Scotts Valley, Redwood City, San Ramon, Alameda, Mountain View, San Jose, Martinez, and Napa.
BASEL, SWITZERLAND, 2017-Mar-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — Mit einer einmaligen Aktion bringt Coop passionierte Grillfreunde ein gutes Stück näher an die kulinarischen Künste von Jamie Oliver. Denn dafür braucht es vor allem die richtigen und hochwertigen Grillutensilien, die Coop ab 13. März 2017 mit bis zu 87 % Rabatt in der Trophy-Sammelaktion anbietet. Erstmals können Sammelmarken auch digital mittels Supercard-App gesammelt werden.
Wie gewohnt erhalten Coop-Kundinnen und -Kunden pro 10 Franken Einkaufswert eine Sammelmarke. Mit je einer vollen Sammelkarte mit 25 Marken können nebst dem Jamie-Oliver-BBQ-Grill hochwertige Tranchier- und Steakmesser sowie edles Grillbesteck zum einmaligen Trophy-Vorzugspreis gekauft werden.
Top-Angebot für grosse Auswahl mit bis zu 87 % Rabatt
Wer gerne grilliert, weiss es schon lange: Für köstliche Grilladen benötigt man nicht nur beste Zutaten, sondern auch zuverlässiges Grill-Equipment. Den Trophy-Sammlerinnen und Sammlern stehen ab 13. März hochwertige Edelstahl-Messer unter 10 Franken, zwei BBQ Holzkohlegrills, edles Grillbesteck sowie vielseitig verwendbare Servierplatten und Terrakottaschüsseln von Jamie Oliver zur Auswahl. Die insgesamt 16 Produkte sind mit bis zu 87 % Rabatt erhältlich.
Coop bringt Sammelmarken aufs Smartphone
Erstmals haben Coop-Kundinnen und -Kunden die Möglichkeit, mittels Supercard-App an der Sammelaktion teilzunehmen. Pro 10 Franken Einkaufswert werden die Sammelmarken automatisch digital gutgeschrieben. Und so funktioniert’s: In der Supercard-App oder unter www.supercard.ch/digitale-sammelpaesse teilnehmen, bei 25 Sammelmarken digitalen Bon aktivieren, Supercard an der Kasse vorzeigen und die Wunschprämie zum Trophy-Preis beziehen.
Miles & More-Meilen für Vielflieger
Mit den Trophy-Marken können auch bei dieser Sammelaktion wieder Miles & More-Flugmeilen bezogen werden. Die Bons können in jedem Coop-Supermarkt, Coop-City-Warenhaus und bei Coop-Bau+Hobby mit einer vollen Karte plus einer Zuzahlung von CHF 34.90 bezogen werden. Wer den Bon im Internet einlöst, nimmt automatisch an einer Verlosung von fünf mal zwei Swiss-Europa-Flügen teil.
Sammelaktion läuft bis Mitte August
Coop-Kundinnen und -Kunden erhalten die Sammelmarken wie gewohnt in Coop-Supermärkten, Coop-City-Warenhäusern, Coop Restaurants und Coop-Bau+Hobby-Baumärkten sowie für jede Bestellung im Online-Supermarkt Coop@home und im Online-Shop von Mondovino. Trophy-Marken können bis Samstag, den 29. Juli 2017 gesammelt und volle Sammelkarten bis Samstag, den 12. August 2017 in den Coop-Verkaufsstellen eingelöst werden. Die Produkte sind erhältlich, solange der Vorrat reicht.
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“With diversified industrial automation products, Honeywell has broken into many applications simplifying several core operations. For Point Of Sale applications in particular, Honeywell has been offering wide array of technology products which have revolutionised several core industries like healthcare, automobile, hospitality, retail businesses, food and beverage, transport and logistics, to name a few. We look forward to have even more stronger ties with Honeywell in the years to come and would like to see the Brand becoming synonymous with every retail business,” he further said.
