Daily Archives: March 23, 2017

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Office Depot, Inc. announces partnership with Silverback Learning Solutions to help foster student and educator achievement

BOCA RATON, Fla., 2017-Mar-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — Office Depot, Inc. (NASDAQ:ODP), a leading global provider of office products, services, and solutions, today (March 20, 2017) announced a partnership with Silverback Learning Solutions, a pioneering K-12 education technology company, to bring districts and administrators personalized learning solutions that help foster student and educator achievement.

The unique partnership combines Office Depot, Inc.’s Committed to Learning™ initiative with Silverback Learning Solutions’ education software Mileposts™, Teacher Vitae and EdifyAssess, powered by Silverback Learning, which allow teachers and districts to personalize education learning plans while managing interventions and monitoring achievement.

Office Depot, Inc. works with school districts across the country to help implement innovative technology and educational tools that help meet the changing needs of students. Through this partnership, school districts and teachers have access to flexible solutions where they can customize individual plans for students and shift additional time spent on planning to teaching in the classroom.

“Silverback Learning Solutions’ pledge to personalized education aligns with Office Depot’s Commitment to Learning™,” said Becki Schwietz, senior director of growth strategies for Office Depot, Inc. “From our perspective, it’s an innovative approach to the direction of education in the future, and we are excited to be involved.”

Another benefit of the partnership that’s now available to school districts is an extensive professional learning program and personalized instruction based on real-time student data through Silverback’s Teacher Vitae and EdifyAssess.

“We are honored to partner with Office Depot on our personalized learning solutions to administrators and school districts,” said Dr. Jim Lewis, founder and CEO of Silverback Learning Solutions. “Through Office Depot Inc.’s Committed to Learning™, school districts will have a team of education experts ready to demonstrate, implement and execute our Silverback Learning Solutions software, while being supported every step of the way.”

Office Depot, Inc. collaborates with school districts and other educational institutions through the company’s Committed to Learning™ initiative, which offers educators access to a national team of curriculum and instruction experts across disciplines. Through the Committed to Learning™ initiative, the company partners with school districts to meet their strategic goals by providing instructional solutions and access to experts that enrich the learning experience in the areas of personalized learning, project-based learning and innovative learning spaces, culture and wellness, instructional resources, and supplies.

To learn more, visit www.officedepot.com/education or email us directly at committedtolearning@officedepot.com.

About Office Depot, Inc.

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

The company had annual sales of approximately $11 billion, employed approximately 38,000 associates, and served consumers and businesses in North America and abroad with approximately 1,400 retail stores, award-winning e-commerce sites and a dedicated business-to-business sales organization – with a global network of wholly owned operations, franchisees, licensees and alliance partners. The company operates under several banner brands including Office Depot, OfficeMax and Grand & Toy. The company’s portfolio of exclusive product brands include TUL, Foray, Brenton Studio, Ativa, WorkPro, Realspace and HighMark.

Office Depot, Inc.’s common stock is listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol “ODP.”

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

About Silverback Learning Solutions

Silverback Learning Solutions is founded by a former superintendent and continues to be enriched by educators. We deliver solutions focused on the individual learner, the classroom, and the district with personalized learning and growth at the core. Our award-winning company delivers a complete suite of products – Mileposts™, Teacher Vitae and EdifyAssess powered by Silverback. Students, teachers, administrators, and superintendents use Silverback solutions to drive intentional instruction for greater achievement and they are found in K – 12 schools and districts throughout the U.S. Please visit us at www.silverbacklearning.com

Contact:
Julianne Embry
561-438-1451
julianne.embry@officedepot.com

Edelman
Amanda Olson,
512-634-3661
amanda.olson1@edelman.com

Source: Office Depot, Inc.

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SPAR Hungary opens new hypermarket in Pest; creating 100 new jobs

Hungary, 2017-Mar-23 — /EPR Retail News/ —SPAR Hungary invested more than €12.8 million in the development of the new store, creating 100 new jobs.

Located in the county of Pest, the latest hypermarket is part of a new shopping centre which was designed using environmentally friendly technology and is located at a busy motorway intersection. As part of its overall investment, SPAR Hungary also renovated the surrounding roads and the sewage system. A playground of 200m² was also created next to the hypermarket. With these investments, SPAR has significantly contributed to the infrastructural development of Érd.

“We have a lot of plans for development in 2017,” said Márk Maczelka, Head of Communications at SPAR Hungary. “It is important to keep modernising and expanding our network of hypermarkets. In our experience, people living in the vicinity of Budapest value stores that are easily accessible, with many parking spaces and a good product range – this is why we decided to go ahead with the development in Érd.”

SPAR Hungary opened its first INTERSPAR store in 1995 in the town of Győr. The 32nd INTERSPAR opened in November 2014 in Szekszárd and now, shoppers have access to the 33rd INTERSPAR Hypermarket in Érd.

The INTERSPAR Hypermarket in the new shopping centre is based on a concept that has recently been carefully designed by Hungarian and international retail experts. It makes use of good quality materials and energy-saving solutions. After passing through the entrance of the store, a market-like fruit and vegetable section welcomes customers, who can then proceed through the fresh bakery area to the delicatessen counter. The hypermarket offers a total of more than 20,000 top quality products. A new cashier information system enables faster payment, in addition to the traditional cashiers.

The Érd INTERSPAR offers several helpful services to shoppers. An electric car charging station in the parking lot is one such new service, enabling any type of electric car to be charged within one to six hours. At a mobile charging point in the entrance of the store, customers can also charge their phones. The SPAR-to-Go restaurant awaits guests with grilled products, sandwiches and salads made from quality ingredients, and other dishes prepared onsite are also available to eat or to take away. A free wi-fi service is available throughout the store.

Energy-efficiency played a key role in the development of the hypermarket. LED lighting has been installed throughout the store, consuming much less energy than traditional bulbs. The building’s heating is supplied from waste heat generated during commercial cooling, and cooling is provided using a cutting-edge heat pump system. Doors have been added to the fridges to ensure environmentally friendly operation.

In addition to the INTERSPAR, the shopping centre also houses a shopping area of 1,200m², where a coffee shop, a post office, a chemist, an optician and a jewellery shop will also open. The underground and the open-air parking lots offer a total of 377 parking spaces. Moving walkways enable visitors to easily move from the first floor to the centre of the store, the SPAR-to-Go restaurant and the entrance of the shopping area. A bus stop has been set up at the main entrance of the building, and a bus waiting area is also available.

Contact:

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

Source: Spar International

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INTERSPAR Austria donates €92,000 to SOS Children’s Villages to help provide shelter and care for abandoned and orphaned children

Austria, 2017-Mar-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — INTERSPAR has been an important partner of the Austrian charity, SOS Children’s Villages, for 12 years. The company recently donated €92,000 to the organisation, which provides shelter and care for abandoned, destitute and orphaned children.

To raise this money, INTERSPAR ran a campaign called ‘Every move counts’, whereby one Euro was donated to SOS Children’s Villages for every kilometre travelled by foot or by bike. A drawing competition for children involving the INTERSPAR mascot, INGO, also attracted a great deal of interest and support.

“We will continue to partner with SOS Children’s Villages, which offers thousands of children and adolescents in Austria much needed support, security and care,” said Markus Kaser, Managing Director of INTERSPAR Austria, when he handed over the cheque to Christian Moser, Managing Director SOS Children’s Village.

Founded in 1949, SOS Children’s Villages is an independent, non-governmental organisation, which protects the interests of children who have been separated from their families. The organisation, which is present in 130 countries around the world, helps to match children and young adolescents with a new family.

Contact:

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

Source: Spar International

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Sheetz opens a fully-stocked beer cave at its store in Claysburg, Pa.

ALTOONA, Pa., 2017-Mar-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — Sheetz, one of America’s fastest-growing family-owned and operated convenience retailers for more than 60 years, today (March 20, 2017) announced the opening of a fully-stocked beer cave at its store located at 12604 Dunnings Highway in Claysburg, Pa.

“At Sheetz, we pride ourselves in giving our customers what they want, how they want it and when they want it, 24 hours a day and 365 days per year,” said Ryan Sheetz, AVP of Brand Strategy.  “Purchasing beer at Sheetz locations across Pennsylvania is something our customers have looked forward to for years and we are proud to bring that goal one step closer to reality.”

With the opening of the Claysburg beer cave, Sheetz now has nine stores in Pennsylvania which offer beer sales.  Additionally, wine is offered at six locations in the state and will soon be offered at the Claysburg location.  At each location which offers alcoholic beverages, Sheetz is committed to responsibly complying with all current laws and regulations, including the enforcement of a 100 percent proof-of-age policy.  Employees will ask for proper identifications, a valid driver’s license, passport or military identification card, from any customers wanting to purchase alcohol, regardless of age.  Each location also abides by time-of-day sales restrictions on alcohol.

Sheetz currently sells beer in the five other states located in the company’s footprint.

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 $6.9 billion in revenue and more than 17,500 employees. The company operates over 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).

For further information:
Nick Ruffner
nruffner@sheetz.com

SOURCE: Sheetz, Inc.

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SpartanNash announces the promotion of Bill Jacobs to VP, Treasury and Corporate Development

SpartanNash announces the promotion of Bill Jacobs to VP, Treasury and Corporate Development

 

Byron Center, MI, 2017-Mar-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — SpartanNash (Nasdaq: SPTN) announced today (Mar 22, 2017) that Bill Jacobs has been promoted to Vice President, Treasury and Corporate Development, effective immediately. Mr. Jacobs has been with SpartanNash for nearly 24 years, serving as the Company’s Treasurer since 2005.

In his new role, Mr. Jacobs will be responsible for the treasury function, capital markets, credit and corporate insurance and will support the ongoing merger and acquisition activities of SpartanNash.

He will report directly to Chris Meyers, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer.

“Throughout his career at SpartanNash, Bill has been a key member of the finance team, and his contributions to the Company’s bottom line have resulted in many efficiencies over the years,” Mr. Meyers said. “As we continue to seek out new opportunities, we look forward to the contributions Bill will make in his newly expanded role.”

Mr. Jacobs also held the title of Assistant Treasurer with the Company from 2002-05.

During his time at SpartanNash, he has led multiple capital markets projects that supported the Company’s growth strategy.

About SpartanNash

SpartanNash (Nasdaq: SPTN) is a Fortune 400 company whose core businesses include distributing grocery products to independent grocery retailers, national accounts, its corporate-owned retail stores and U.S. military commissaries. SpartanNash serves customer locations in 47 states and the District of Columbia, Europe, Cuba, Puerto Rico, Bahrain and Egypt. SpartanNash currently operates 154 supermarkets, primarily under the banners of Family Fare Supermarkets, Family Fresh Market, D&W Fresh Market and SunMart. Through its MDV military division, SpartanNash is the leading distributor of grocery products to military commissaries in the United States.

Contact:

Meredith Gremel
Vice President, Corporate Affairs and Communications
616.878.2830

Source: SpartanNash

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Rexall OneWalk to Conquer Cancer announces new route distances for the 2017 event

Participants in the Rexall OneWalk can now choose to complete 15KM, 25KM or 40KM distances to support Personalized Cancer Medicine at the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, one of the top 5 cancer research centres in the world.

TORONTO, 2017-Mar-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — In commemoration of 15 years of walking, the Rexall OneWalk to Conquer Cancer has announced new route distances for the 2017 event, offering participants the option to walk 15KM, 25KM or a marathon distance 40KM, in one day, for all cancers. In addition, event organizers announced Rexall as the returning title sponsor, supporting The Princess Margaret’s mission to conquer cancer in our lifetime.

“Every day, over 500 Canadians are diagnosed with cancer. With continued support from the OneWalk community, the generosity of our title sponsor Rexall and all our donors, our world-leading clinicians and researchers are able to continue to develop live-saving treatments to detect cancers earlier, diagnose with more precision, target treatment for each patient and support patients and their families throughout the cancer journey,” said Paul Alofs, President and CEO of The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation.

“This year, we are marking a milestone 15 years of walking to conquer cancer and we count on the community more than ever to get involved in this incredible event, which is offering participants new route distances to suit their fitness goals. A huge personal thank you to Rexall, which continues to help Canadians improve their overall health and wellness while also partnering with us to support cancer research and care. Through Rexall’s generous sponsorship, we are able to create a fantastic event experience from start to finish and direct dollars to our core programs,” added Alofs.

The Rexall OneWalk to Conquer Cancer is Canada’s single largest standalone cancer walk fundraiser. Since 2003, thousands of participants have been walking for Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, and have raised over $162 million, to support Personalized Cancer Medicine at The Princess Margaret, one of the top-five cancer research centres in the world. The Rexall OneWalk is a one-day journey through the streets of Toronto, with a start and finish line festival at the city’s iconic Nathan Phillips Square.

As the title sponsor since 2016, Rexall is vital in the overall success of OneWalk. Last year, Team Rexall was the biggest corporate fundraiser, with 159 passionate employees raising an incredible $161,532.

“Rexall is honoured to return as the title sponsor and to continue supporting The Princess Margaret’s mission of conquering cancer in our lifetime,” said Domenic Pilla, CEO McKesson Canada.

“Rexall is dedicated to providing exceptional patient care to every Canadian who visits our pharmacies, making this partnership with the world-leading clinicians and researchers at The Princess Margaret a very natural one,” Pilla added.

When a participant registers for the Rexall OneWalk, they can make it a very personal and powerful experience. Each participant can choose their preferred route distance and choose to designate their funds to the type of cancer research that matters most to them!

“Walking 40-kilometres in September is going to be no easy feat, but I’m eager to take on the physical challenge and am excited to learn new things about myself and others, like my friend and dedicated participant, who survived breast cancer,” said Sue Owen, a first-time Rexall OneWalk participant from Burlington.

“In 2015, my mother died of stage four stomach and liver cancers. She fell ill in August and by October, she was gone. I am passionate about continuing to improve education, research and treatment so we can save lives. It is my job is to be a leader and use the Rexall OneWalk as a platform for change. I want to show the community that we don’t have to sit still when tragedy happens,” Owen added.

For a limited time, participants can register for $25, half of the regular price, though the Rexall referral program.

To register for the Rexall OneWalk to Conquer Cancer visit www.onewalk.ca or call (416) 815-WALK (9255).

MEDIA CONTACT: 
Leviana Coccia
CauseForce Communications Manager
(416) 577-9255
lcoccia@causeforce.com

Source: Rexall

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Bartell Drugs introduces new Specialty Pharmacy service

SEATTLE, 2017-Mar-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — Bartell Drugs, America’s oldest family owned pharmacy, has launched a new Specialty Pharmacy service that personalizes healthcare for those experiencing conditions requiring specialized medications.

“Being diagnosed and entering treatment can be overwhelming,” states Bartell’s Clinical Programs Manager, Christina Ree. “Our Specialty Pharmacy program helps take the fear out of the process and replaces it with confidence.”

Some of the difficult to treat conditions may include cancer, hepatitis B and C, HIV, rheumatoid arthritis and a host of other medical conditions requiring very specialized medications and therapy regimens.

Specialty Pharmacy dispenses medications used to treat challenging and complex medical conditions. But it also helps patients see the benefits of their prescriptions.

“Specialty care is more than just dispensing medications,” says Ree. “Through this program, we help engage with patients to address all the issues relevant to their condition and take care of everything behind the scene so they can start and stay on therapy.”

Ree notes that this is really more of a partnership with patients, going the extra mile to help educate patients about potential drug interactions, side effects, scheduling prescription renewals, helping to connect them with payment assistance options, and other aspects of care.

Patient contact is made via in-person check-ins,  in addition to wellness calls by trained professionals who monitor patient progress and answer questions in the convenience of their home.

Bartell’s Specialty Pharmacy programs are available at all Bartell locations. Patients can check with their Bartell pharmacist to learn more about the program.

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 can better serve its customers. With exceptional customer service, locally made products and a focus on your overall wellbeing, Bartell Drugs is here to help. 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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CareClinic by Kaiser Permanente at Bartell Drugs opens in Des Moines, WA

SEATTLE, 2017-Mar-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — CareClinic by Kaiser Permanente at Bartell Drugs opened today (March 20, 2017) at 21615 Pacific Highway South, providing Des Moines residents with access to high-quality, convenient health care to get them well and on their way. This new location will provide treatment for minor illness and injuries, as well as preventive services from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., seven days a week.

“Patients come to our CareClinics for quality and convenient care,” said Kaiser Permanente clinician Michael Erickson, CareClinic chief. “We’ve proven that CareClinics live up to the promise of quickly diagnosing and treating common ailments. We get you in, taken care of and on your way for an affordable price.”

CareClinics are open to everyone – both Kaiser Permanente members and nonmembers – ages 2 and up. The cost is $75 per visit for those without health coverage. Led by Kaiser Permanente care teams, services include treatment for minor illnesses and injuries, and routine preventive care such as vaccinations.

Kaiser Permanente members who access the CareClinic can feel confident in knowing that their diagnosis and treatment plans are included in their secure electronic health record and shared with their care teams, allowing for a more coordinated care experience.

Kaiser Permanente and Bartell Drugs now operate 11 CareClinic locations and plan to add four more by the end of the year. These clinics help to further Kaiser Permanente’s mission to provide high-quality, affordable health care services and to improve the health of the communities it serves.

The four additional CareClinic locations planned for 2017 include:

  • Silver Lake (Everett) – April  2017
  • Gig Harbor –  June  2017
  • Snoqualmie – summer 2017
  • Redmond Town Center – summer 2017

“Bartell Drugs guests have told us they want the ability to get care and treatment as well as everyday necessities in one place,” said John Lewis, director of CareClinic Operations for Bartell Drugs. “That’s why we’re so excited to continue our expansion in order to offer our services to more communities around the region.”

For a complete list and more information on all the current CareClinics, visit care-clinic.org.

About Bartell Drugs

Family-owned since 1890, Seattle-based Bartell Drugs is proud of its more than 127-year history based here in the Northwest. Four generations of the Bartell family have continuously focused on the future — and how the drugstore chain can better serve its customers. With exceptional customer service, locally made products and a focus on your overall wellbeing, Bartell Drugs is here to help. 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.

About Kaiser Permanente

Kaiser Permanente is committed to helping shape the future of health care. We are recognized as one of America’s leading health care providers and not-for-profit health plans. Founded in 1945, our mission is to provide high-quality, affordable health care services and to improve the health of our members and the communities we serve. We currently serve more than 11.3 million members in eight states and the District of Columbia. Care for members and patients is focused on their total health and guided by their personal physicians, specialists and team of caregivers. Our expert and caring medical teams are empowered and supported by industry-leading technology advances and tools for health promotion, disease prevention, state-of-the-art care delivery and world-class chronic disease management. Kaiser Permanente is dedicated to care innovations, clinical research, health education and the support of community health. For more information, go to: kp.org/share.

Contact:

Kaiser Permanente
Jackson Holtz
Holtz.j@ghc.org
206-448-2728

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

Source: Bartell Drugs

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Kroger appointments: Joe Grieshaber as president of Fred Meyer Stores and Dan De La Rosa as president of Columbus division

CINCINNATI, 2017-Mar-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) today (March 20, 2017) announced Joe Grieshaber has been named president of Fred Meyer Stores, replacing Jeff Burt, who resigned today to pursue other interests. Mr. Grieshaber has been serving as president of Kroger’s Columbus division.

Succeeding Mr. Grieshaber will be Dan De La Rosa, who has been promoted to serve as president of Kroger’s Columbus division. Mr. De La Rosa currently serves as vice president of merchandising for Fred Meyer Stores.

Joe Grieshaber Promoted to President of Fred Meyer Division

Joe Grieshaber will serve as president of the company’s Fred Meyer division, based in Portland, Ore., effective immediately. Fred Meyer Stores offers one-stop shopping at multi-department stores in Alaska, Idaho, Oregon and Washington.

“Joe is known throughout the retail industry as an exceptional leader who always brings out the best in his people and teams,” said Fred Morganthall, Kroger’s executive vice president of retail operations. “His depth of experience will help the Fred Meyer team build on their successes and continue to innovate and deliver a unique shopping experience for our customers.”

Mr. Grieshaber began his career with Kroger in 1983 as a store management trainee in Nashville, Tenn. He has served in a variety of leadership roles with Kroger, including meat merchandiser, district manager, and as vice president of merchandising for the Columbus division. In 2003, he was named group vice president of perishables merchandising and procurement, where he was responsible for fresh and natural foods throughout Kroger’s family of stores. He was promoted to president of Dillons in 2010, and was named to his current role in 2015.

Mr. Grieshaber and his wife, Vickie, have three grown daughters and five grandchildren.

Dan De La Rosa Promoted to President of Kroger’s Columbus Division

Dan De La Rosa will serve as president of Kroger’s Columbus division, which operates food stores primarily in central, northwest and southeast Ohio.

“Dan is a dynamic leader who combines a passion for people with strong experience in both merchandising and store operations,” said Fred Morganthall, Kroger’s executive vice president of retail operations. “Dan’s commitment to associate development and putting the customers first will help ensure the Columbus division’s continued success.”

Mr. De La Rosa joined the company as a clerk’s helper in the Ralphs division in 1980, where he served in a number of store operations and merchandising roles, including store director, director of Corporate Brands for both Ralphs and Food 4 Less, and district manager. Since 2007, Mr. De La Rosa has served in a variety of merchandising roles, including regional director of merchandising for the company’s western region. In 2013, he was promoted to vice president of meat and seafood merchandising for The Kroger Co., and in 2015 he was named to his current role as vice merchandising for Fred Meyer.

Mr. De La Rosa and his wife, Denise, have one grown daughter.

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.

Contact:

Keith Dailey
Director, Media Relations/Corporate Communications
Office: 513-762-1304
Cell: 513-257-4955
Email: keith.dailey@kroger.com

SOURCE: The Kroger Co.

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Colruyt Group launches the Xtra loyalty card

Halle, Belgium, 2017-Mar-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — Today ( March 20, 2017), Colruyt Group launched the Xtra loyalty card. This is a single loyalty card which, from April 4th, can be used by a massive 3.7 million customers in over 600 shops and collection points comprising Colruyt, OKay, Bio-Planet, Spar Colruyt Group, Collect&Go, Dreamland, Dreambaby and ColliShop. From autumn 2017, DATS 24 will be added to the list. For customers who like to stay mobile, an Xtra app is available. All Colruyt Group’s shops and webshops have their own promotions and offers and, to make it even easier for customers, with Xtra they will automatically and immediately have access to each chain’s respective deals. With the launch of Xtra, Colruyt Group wants to get to know its customers better and to target information, offers and product ranges and services more accurately.

Convenience: automatic and immediate benefit
First and foremost, Xtra is a handy loyalty card for Colruyt Group’s 9 chains and webshops. “With this unique service, we want to make life easier for our customers and, above all, offer them simplicity in a society which is complex enough already,” says COO Frans Colruyt. “Anybody who shops with Xtra in Colruyt Group’s 9 participating chains and webshops immediately and automatically enjoys the offers running in that particular chain or webshop at that moment. All discounts are clearly indicated on the receipt. Simplicity and transparency are the winning hand.”

Xtra: 1 card, 1 app and 1 password
The new card will be sent out to 3,700,000 customers in Belgium and Luxembourg  from April 4th and replaces the current Colruyt, OKay, Bio-Planet and Dreambaby loyalty cards. Switching is simplicity itself, customers can use the card immediately they receive it.

For customers who prefer to stay mobile, there’s also the Xtra app. This gives customers in the shops the same benefits as the Xtra card. With the Xtra app, customers always have their loyalty card in their pockets. In addition, they can link different mobile payment apps (like Bancontact, KBC or SEQR) to the Xtra app so that they can pay with them.

Finally, Xtra online provides more simplification and convenience. With the Xtra login, customers will have access to all webshops from now on with a single user name and password.

Customised information and benefits
Over the years, Colruyt Group has evolved into a close-knit group. Frank Colruyt continues, “With our different chains, we want to be alert to our customers’ needs.” Customers do indeed have different needs and requirements at different times of their lives, and with its different chains, Colruyt Group can provide an appropriate response to each stage. “This group card makes it both very clear that we are a close-knit family of companies, and that we have shared values and aspirations,” explains Frans Colruyt.

Via Xtra, Colruyt Group can tune its information, offers and (shop) ranges even more closely to the interests and needs of its customers at every stage of their lives. On the one hand, customers can manage their own personal data and indicate which folders or newsletters they want to receive via their Xtra login. Later, it will be possible to show a preference for certain products, brands, dietary habits, etc. “What’s important here is that customers remain in charge of their own data, so they can alter or remove it at any time,” adds Frans Colruyt.

On the other hand, customers will be served more efficiently with offers, folders and communications that are relevant to them because, via Xtra, Colruyt Group will have more insight into their needs and purchasing behaviour in the different chains. “Relevance is a very important concept to us here. Based on new insights we can, for example, adjust the range in our stores to respond better to local preferences and so provide the customer with a more suitable offer. In short, Xtra offers a lot of potential to get to know our customers better. It is yet another stage in our ambition to deepen the relationship with our customers and enter into more dialogue with them,” says Frans Colruyt.

Privacy 100% guaranteed
Colruyt Group thinks that it is extremely important that customer privacy is guaranteed at all times. The retailer therefore stresses that data about purchasing behaviour is 100% secure at all times. Frans Colruyt explains, “We keep data so that we can serve our customers better, with total transparency. So any use must adhere to this.”

The future
Colruyt Group has invested a lot of time and resources in developing its group loyalty card, associated app and login. It was a major operation, from integrating IT systems and databases to distributing the card to 3.7 million customers, as well as creating all the communication about it.

“We are extremely proud of this new milestone in the history of Colruyt Group. Over the next few years, we want to create a positive follow-up. In autumn 2017, customers with Xtra will also enjoy offers at DATS 24. In the long term, we can also include our Cru and ZEB shops in the mix,” concludes Frans Colruyt.

Contact:
Hanne Poppe
press@colruytgroup.com
+32 (0)2 363 55 45
+32 (0)473 92 45 10

Source: Colruyt Group

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Grösstes Angebot für Allergiker im Schweizer Detailhandel

BASEL, SWITZERLAND, 2017-Mar-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — Als führende Anbieterin im Schweizer Detailhandel bietet Coop die grösste Auswahl an Produkten für Personen mit Lebensmittelunverträglichkeiten. Bis Ende 2020 soll das Angebot nochmals deutlich vergrössert werden. Allein dieses Jahr werden über 70 weitere Produkte mit dem Schweizer Allergie-Gütesiegel ausgezeichnet. Seit kurzem werden nicht nur «Free-From»-Produkte, sondern auch andere Coop-Eigenmarken ohne Gluten oder Lactose entsprechend gekennzeichnet.

Über drei Millionen Menschen in der Schweiz sind von einer Allergie oder einer Intoleranz betroffen. Deshalb unterstreicht Coop als Partnerin des Nationalen Allergietages vom 23. März 2017 erneut ihr Engagement und ihre Kompetenz in diesem Bereich.

Bereits über 126 Artikel zertifiziert
Coop lässt immer mehr Produkte von Service Allergie Suisse, der unabhängigen Tochtergesellschaft der Stiftung aha! Allergiezentrum Schweiz, zertifizieren. Diese Produkte bieten einen Mehrwert an Sicherheit und Information. Gegenwärtig tragen über 126 Produkte im Lebensmittel-, Kosmetik- wie auch im Haushaltsbereich das Schweizer Allergie-Gütesiegel. Bis Ende 2017 werden über 200 Artikel mit dem Schweizer Allergie-Gütesiegel ausgezeichnet.

Einheitliches Kennzeichnungssystem für Coop-Eigenmarken
Dank der transparenten Deklaration von Allergenen auf der Verpackung bietet Coop ab sofort beste Orientierung für den sorglosen Einkauf: Zusätzlich finden sich nun nicht nur auf «Free-From»-Produkten, sondern auch auf anderen Coop-Eigenmarken wie Betty Bossi oder Naturaplan die Kennzeichnung «OHNE Lactose» oder «OHNE Gluten». Dadurch können die entsprechenden Produkte noch schneller im Regal gefunden werden.

Coop baut Leaderrolle weiter aus
Coop ist in der Schweiz bereits heute führend im allergenoptimierten Segment und bietet über 400 Produkte ohne Glute, Lactose und andere Allergene an. Jeder fünfte Coop-Kunde legt diese Artikel heute regelmässig in den Warenkorb. Im letzten Jahr hat Coop rund 160 Millionen Franken mit allergenoptimierten Produkten umgesetzt. «Ziel ist, den Umsatz bis 2020 auf 250 Millionen Franken zu erhöhen», erklärt Roland Frefel, Leiter Frischprodukte Coop.

Nebst dem grössten Sortiment bietet Coop Rezepte, Newsletter und viele weitere Dienstleistungen für Personen mit Nahrungsmittelunverträglichkeiten. Weitere Informationen finden Sie unter www.taten-statt-worte.ch.

Bilder zum Download

Kontaktpersonen:

Urs Meier
Leiter Medienstelle
Tel. +41 61 336 71 10

Ramón Gander
Mediensprecher
Tel. +41 61 336 71 67

Andrea Bergmann
Mediensprecherin
Tel. +41 61 336 67 37

Angela Wimmer
Mediensprecherin
Tel. +41 61 336 71 87

Source: Coop

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GESUNDE ENTWICKLUNG DER MIGROS BASEL

GESUNDE ENTWICKLUNG DER MIGROS BASEL

 

Basel, Switzerland, 2017-Mar-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — Im Jahr 2016 ist der Umsatz der Migros Basel im Kerngeschäft bei einer durchschnittlichen Minusteuerung von 0.6 Prozent real um 0.3 Prozent gewachsen. Obwohl leicht weniger Kunden zu verzeichnen waren, stieg der durchschnittliche Warenkorb. So konnte die Migros Basel trotz schwierigen Rahmenbedingungen signifikant Marktanteile gewinnen. Dies auch dank der konsequenten Fokussierung auf Mehrwerte.

Die Migros Basel hat sich im garstigen Marktumfeld gut gehalten und das Jahr 2016 mit einem Umsatz von 929.4 Millionen Franken abgeschlossen. Bei einer durchschnittlichen Minusteuerung von 0.6 Prozent konnte der Umsatz im Kerngeschäft real um 0.3 Prozent gesteigert und ein Gewinn von 19 Millionen Franken erwirtschaftet werden. Erfreulich ist auch der erneute Gewinn an Marktanteilen im Bereich Supermarkt. Dem leichten Umsatzrückgang der Supermärkte steht eine Minusteuerung von 0.3 Prozent gegenüber. Im Vergleich zum Vorjahr kauften leicht weniger Kunden in der Migros Basel ein. Der durchschnittliche Warenkorb hat sich dagegen um 20 Rappen erhöht. Über alle Fachmarktbereiche (Melectronics, Micasa, SportXX, Obi, Do it + Garden) resultierte ein Umsatzwachstum von real 4.0 Prozent, dies bei einer durchschnittlichen Minusteuerung von 4.3 Prozent.

Fokussierung auf Mehrwert-Themen
Das positive Ergebnis ist unter anderem auf die konsequente Ausrichtung der Sortimente auf die Kundebedürfnisse sowie die Fokussierung auf Mehrwert-Themen zurückzuführen. So wurde das „Aus der Region. Für die Region.“-Sortiment erweitert und die Anzahl der Produzenten erhöht. Mit neuen Formaten wie dem Abhol-Service PickMup oder Produktinnovationen wie Migros DAILY ging die Migros Basel weiter auf die Bedürfnisse der Kundschaft ein. Neben dem bewährten Bio-Sortiment, bei dem der Umsatz stark angestiegen ist, erfreut sich auch das Alnatura-Angebot einer hohen und steigenden Beliebtheit.

Die Migros Basel ist ihrer Strategie, bestehend aus der gelebten Kundennähe, der Frische, der Qualität der Produkte, dem besten Preis-Leistungs-Verhältnis sowie einladend modernen Läden, treu geblieben. Für die Revitalisierung von fünf Migros-Filialen, dem Do it + Garden Sternenhof, dem SportXX Paradies sowie der Fachmärkte im MParc Dreispitz wurden rund 36 Millionen Franken investiert. So verfügt die Migros Basel weiterhin über das jüngste Filialnetz der Schweiz. Ferner konzipierte die Migros Basel den Fitnesspark Heuwaage neu und sanierte das Familienrestaurant im Park im Grünen. Nach 40 Jahren wurden auch die Büroräumlichkeiten der Betriebszentrale in Münchenstein in eine moderne Bürolandschaft verwandelt.

Weitere Revitalisierungen geplant
Die Migros Basel konzentriert sich auch in Zukunft auf ihre Mehrwerte, setzt auf innovative Ideen und tätigt weiterhin Investitionen in ein modernes Filialnetz. So sind für das laufende Jahr unter anderem mit der Revitalisierung von zwei Migros-Partnern und der Migros Delémont (inkl. Restaurant) sowie dem Umzug der Migros Bahnhof ins Provisorium weitere wichtige Investitionsprojekte geplant. Bereits am 31. März wird im Rahmen der Fitnessstrategie an der Clarastrasse das dritte Migros Fitnesscenter eröffnet.

Contact:
Genossenschaft Migros Basel
Unternehmenskommunikation
Ruchfeldstrasse 15, Postfach 3643
4002 Basel
TEL: +41 58 575 55 13
E-MAIL: medien@migrosbasel.ch
WEB: www.migrosbasel.ch

Source: Migros

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Amazon launched its fastest and easiest way to shop: Alexa voice shopping through Prime Now

  • Alexa voice shopping adds Prime Now making it the fastest and easiest way to shop hands-free
  • Customers can now use their voice to shop tens of thousands of items through Prime Now with free two-hour delivery
  • Alexa, order wine! Also launching today, wine, beer and spirits available from Alexa through Prime Now in select cities

SEATTLE, 2017-Mar-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — Today (Mar. 21, 2017), Amazon launched its fastest and easiest way to shop: Alexa voice shopping through Prime Now. Tens of thousands of daily essentials are available for free two-hour delivery by simply asking Alexa to order from Prime Now. Alexa can order multiple items at once, make recommendations and will automatically choose the next available 2-hour delivery window. Whether customers are in the middle of a game night with friends and family, have their hands full with a baby or are too sick to get out of bed, Alexa makes it easy to get what they need right away through Prime Now without taking out a phone or logging into a computer. Just say, “Alexa, order tortilla chips from Prime Now” and pair with salsa and a videogame or ask “Alexa, order Nyquil from Prime Now” and add tissues and chicken noodle soup. The customer skips a trip to the store and the items arrive within the next available two-hour delivery window. Additionally, starting today, customers in select cities can use Alexa to voice order cold beer, wine and spirits from Prime Now with free two-hour delivery. To learn more, visit www.amazon.com/needitnow.

“Bringing Prime Now to Alexa voice shopping combines two of the most innovative shopping technologies available for an experience that our customers are going to wonder how they ever lived without,” said Assaf Ronen, Vice President of Voice Shopping. “We’re excited to offer the full Prime Now catalogue with Alexa, including tens of thousands of items, which allows you to refill everyday essentials you’ve just run out of like diapers or dish soap, or cater to unexpected guests with merlot and ice cream, all without ever leaving your house or even getting up from the couch.”

Alexa, order from Prime Now
Tens of thousands of daily essentials are now available to order with Alexa through Prime Now via the Amazon Echo, Echo Dot, Amazon Tap, Fire Tablet, and Fire TV. It’s as simple as saying, “Alexa, order [product] from Prime Now” — Alexa will recommend a product within the Prime Now catalogue and once confirmed add it to the customer’s order. Customers can add as many items as they want and Alexa can offer suggestions based on the other items in their current order. Once the minimum order amount is reached, Alexa will automatically choose the next available 2-hour delivery slot. Alexa voice shopping through Prime Now is available in more than 30 Prime Now eligible cities. To shop with Alexa through Prime Now, customers must be Prime members with a default payment and shipping address.

Alexa, order alcohol
Customers in select cities can use Alexa to get wine, beer and spirits delivered right to their door with free two-hour delivery through Prime Now. Customers can re-stock their party while watching the game, playing cards or dancing to their favorite song. Customers must be 21 or older to Alexa voice shop for alcohol through Prime Now, and show their I.D. upon delivery. Currently all alcohol delivery is available in Seattle, Washington and beer and wine are available in Columbus and Cincinnati, Ohio. For additional information on availability, please visit www.amazon.com/needitnow.

More to Prime
Tens of millions of Prime members around the world enjoy the many benefits of Prime. In the U.S. that includes unlimited access to award-winning movies and TV episodes with Prime Video; unlimited access to Prime Music, Audible Channels for Prime, Prime Reading, Prime Photos, Twitch Prime; early access to select Lightning Deals, one free pre-released book a month with Kindle First, and more. Prime was built on the foundation of unlimited fast, free shipping and today, members receive unlimited Free Two-Day Shipping on more than 50 million items, Prime FREE One-Day Shipping and Prime FREE Same-Day Delivery in more than 5,000 cities and towns, and two-hour delivery with Prime Now in more than 30 major cities. Start a free trial of Amazon Prime at amazon.com/prime.

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.

Media Hotline:

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

Source: Amazon, Inc.

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Carrefour Banque creates a new way of “consuming” banking services with the launch of C-zam

Boulogne-Billancourt, 2017-Mar-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — The first self-service current account that anyone can open, and which is not subject to income conditions.

Starting on 18 April 2017, consumers will have access to a completely new type of product:
• C-zam, the first self-service current account that anyone can open and activate online, and which is not subject to income conditions.
• The first account of its kind in France – where customers are increasingly connected and on the lookout for simple, fast, intuitive and effective solutions.
• This innovation is result of Carrefour Banque’s banking expertise and is based on a multi-format, multi-channel model.

With C-zam, Carrefour Banque has created a new way of “consuming” banking services – both in terms of its distribution mode and in the way it is used.
A major innovation which families can use to open an account for various purposes – such as managing a holiday kitty or a leisure budget, shopping or providing millennials with their first bank accounts.

According to a survey conducted by the ObSoCo* for Carrefour Banque, more than a third of all people in France have several current accounts. Two-thirds of people with several current accounts have one for their everyday expenses, and 20% have an account that they use as a kitty for financing specific projects (major purchases, travel, etc.).

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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Tesco announces changes to its Executive Committee and International Leadership team

CHESHUNT, England, 2017-Mar-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — Tesco has today (20 Mar 2017) announced changes to its Executive Committee and International Leadership team.

After 38 years of distinguished service to Tesco, Trevor Masters, CEO Tesco International, will leave the business at the end of May.

Trevor began his Tesco career as a teenage management trainee. Over the last four decades, he has served as Operations Director for the UK, a member of the Executive Committee and CEO of our International business. His contribution to Tesco has included growing our Extra format; building our JV businesses in India and China; and rationalising our international business over the last two years.

Following the completion of the sale of our Turkish business, we will be giving greater focus to the two parts of our international business. This includes creating two new roles leading Asia and Central Europe on our Executive Committee.

We are pleased to announce that from 1 April, Tony Hoggett will become Tesco’s CEO Asia and Matt Simister will become Tesco’s CEO Central Europe.

Tony Hoggett joined Tesco as a sixteen year old student in 1990. He managed a number of stores across northern England before being promoted to Stores Director. In 2007 Tony moved to China, where he led our business in the South. In 2010, Tony joined the Turkish Board as Chief Operating Officer. He returned to the UK in 2011 and joined the UK Leadership Team as Retail Director in 2014 before becoming UK Chief Operating Officer in 2016. Over the last three years, Tony has led the transformation of our service model and customer experience in the UK.

Matt joined Tesco in 1996 initially as a marketer, and subsequently worked extensively across different categories in our Product team. After three years as Commercial Director for our Czech and Slovak businesses, Matt returned to the UK to set up our Group Food capability, managing our regional fresh food and Tesco Brand sourcing, buying and inbound supply chains for the UK, ROI, Central Europe and Asia.  For the last two years, Matt has integrated these capabilities into the UK business, and led his team to an exceptional trading performance across Fresh Food and Commodities, as part of our UK ambition to become First for Fresh.

Dave Lewis, Tesco Group Chief Executive, said:

“I’d like to thank Trevor for everything he has done for our business over the last four decades. He has worked tirelessly to strengthen and simplify our international business, and we couldn’t have made the progress we have without him.

“Tony and Matt’s work has been at the heart of Tesco’s turnaround over the last two years and I’m delighted that they will join our Executive Committee. Their new roles will allow us to focus on the different opportunities presented in Asia and Central Europe and I’m looking forward to working even more closely with them both”.

Notes:

  • Over the last two years, Tesco’s Executive Team has been simplified from 16 roles down to 11
  • Other roles in Tesco’s International Leadership team will remain in place, reporting to Tony Hoggett (Asia) and Matt Simister (Central Europe)

We are a team of 480,000 in 11 markets dedicated to serving shoppers a little better every day.

For more information please contact the Tesco Press Office on 01707 918 701  

Source: Tesco

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EROSKI reúne a la flota atunera española con ISSF y AZTI para avanzar en la sostenibilidad del atún

EROSKI reúne a la flota atunera española con ISSF y AZTI para avanzar en la sostenibilidad del atún

 

  • Las últimas auditorías realizadas a todos los proveedores de atún de EROSKI constatan un alto cumplimiento de las medidas de conservación definidas por la Fundación Internacional para la Pesca Sostenible (ISSF)
  • Nuevos compromisos de EROSKI por la sostenibilidad del atún exigirán que todo el atún fresco y en conserva comercializado en sus tiendas deberá proceder de barcos con bandera de las Organizaciones Regionales de Pesca (ORPs)
  • Además, la cooperativa no aceptará atún procedente de países con tarjeta amarilla de la UE por incumplir las medidas aprobadas por las ORPs
  • En 2010 EROSKI fue el primer distribuidor español en unirse a la Iniciativa de Pesca Sostenible impulsada por WWF con el objetivo de conseguir que sus fuentes de pescado y marisco fuesen sostenibles y respetuosas con el medio ambiente y marino

ELORRIO,España, 2017-Mar-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — EROSKI ha reunido en su sede central en Elorrio (Bizkaia) a los representantes de la flota atunera española, las asociaciones sectoriales ANABAC y OPAGAC, la Fundación Internacional para la Pesca Sostenible (ISSF) y el centro tecnológico experto en investigación marina y alimentaria AZTI, además de importantes empresas pesqueras atuneras como Albacora, Garavilla, Calvo, Pevasa, Echebastar y Nicra7 para analizar la situación de los caladeros de atún a nivel mundial y las medidas que se están tomando para su sostenibilidad a medio y largo plazo. La base del encuentro radica en el objetivo de alinear políticas de compras con la principal flota pesquera europea, por su importancia al situarse al comienzo de toda la cadena.

En la reunión sectorial se ha hecho balance de la situación en la que se encuentra el atún claro (Yellowfin y Bigeye) en las zonas pesqueras mundiales más importantes. Asimismo, se ha debatido sobre la eficacia de las nuevas medidas impuestas en el océano Índico sobre la limitación de los dispositivos concentradores de pescado (FAD), del número de barcos de apoyo por embarcación y de la reducción de captura de atún claro del 15% respecto a 2014 en el océano Índico, zona principal de pesca de atún por parte de la flota atunera española.

Nuevo compromiso de EROSKI por la sostenibilidad del atún

Durante la jornada, EROSKI ha expuesto su Política de Pesca Sostenible y se ha comprometido a que todo el atún utilizado para la elaboración en conserva de cualquier marca comercializada en su red de tiendas deberá proceder exclusivamente de países y barcos con bandera de países miembro de las Organizaciones Regionales de Pesca (ORPs). Además, EROSKI no aceptará atún procesado, elaborado o pescado por barcos cuyos países figuren con tarjeta amarilla en la lista de la Unión Europea por incumplir reiteradamente las medidas aprobadas por las ORPs y por no establecer controles contra la pesca ilegal, no declarada y no regulada.

“EROSKI ofrece al consumidor nuevas alternativas para una alimentación más saludable y sostenible. Para ello, hay cosas que debemos hacer de forma distinta. Los once principios de nuestra política de pesca sostenible apuestan claramente por las flotas pesqueras responsables y comprometidas con la sostenibilidad de los caladeros y con los derechos humanos”, ha afirmado el director Comercial de EROSKI para Alimentos Frescos, Iñigo Arias.

El director general de OPAGAC (Organización de Productores Asociados de Grandes Atuneros Congeladores), Julio Morón, ha recordado que además de la sostenibilidad de los recursos atuneros, se deben abordar también las condiciones sociales a bordo de los barcos. Morón ha insistido en que “se deben promocionar las certificaciones internacionales que contemplen también las condiciones sociales acordadas en Naciones Unidas, determinando el salario mínimo y unas condiciones de trabajo dignas en el sector atunero”. En este contexto, Morón ha dado a conocer la nueva certificación recibida por los barcos asociados AENOR “Atún de Pesca Responsable” que es la primera certificación pesquera del mundo que incluye las condiciones aprobadas por Naciones Unidas a través de la OIT en 2007 con la firma del Convenio 188. También ha destacado que “en colaboración con la organización ecologista WWF, estamos implantando un Programa de Mejoría de la Pesquería (FIP) en los 40 barcos asociados a OPAGAC que pescan en los principales océanos y que busca establecer un estándar de sostenibilidad de la pesca de cerco en todas sus modalidades, incluyendo principalmente la pesca sostenible con dispositivos concentradores no enmallantes e incorporando ya los nuevos dispositivos biodegradables de última generación”.

El director general de ANABAC (Asociación Nacional de Armadores de Buques Atuneros Congeladores), Juan Pablo Rodríguez-Sahagún, ha valorado positivamente las medidas tomadas por las organizaciones regionales de pesca (ORPs) y ha insistido en que “ahora lo que hace falta es implementarlas, mejorando la capacidad de la ORPs para hacerlas cumplir”. Rodríguez-Sahagún ha apostado por “la opción de abastecerse de flotas abanderadas en la Unión Europea o países como Seychelles u otros bajo control europeo como la más recomendable en términos de seguridad alimentaria y sostenibilidad”.

El presidente del Consejo de ISSF (International Seafood Sustainability Foundation), Juan Corrales, ha apuntado como medida necesaria a tomar “la limitación del número de barcos, es decir, no construir más si no se desguaza uno antes”. Ha insistido asimismo en que la sostenibilidad tiene que abarcar a todas las pesquerías y “se debe basar en un férreo control de la actividad pesquera en la aplicación de las mejores prácticas y en unos estándares mínimos de las condiciones sociales de trabajo”.

Josu Santiago, responsable de la división de Investigación Marina de AZTI, ha expuesto los resultados de las últimas auditorías realizadas a los proveedores de atún de EROSKI en el cumplimiento de las resoluciones y medidas de conservación de la ISSF, constatando un alto nivel de cumplimiento. “Todos los buques cerqueros de gran escala implicados estaban registrados en el PVR, creado y verificado por la ISSF. El resto de los barcos implicados son fundamentalmente artesanales y operan con artes de caña y cacea y cumplen con las disposiciones de las ORPs correspondientes”.

EROSKI garantiza el origen sostenible de toda su gama de conservas de atún

“En EROSKI apostamos por la incorporación de garantías medioambientales a nuestra oferta al consumidor. Exigimos el etiquetado de cada lata de atún con indicaciones sobre la especie de pescado, la zona de captura y el método de pesca empleado. Incluimos también el enlace directo a la web de la Fundación ISSF donde se explica más en detalle lo que implica el cumplimiento de los principios de sostenibilidad de la ISSF” afirma el director comercial de EROSKI para alimentos frescos, Iñigo Arias.

La restricción de compra de especies sobreexplotadas como el “Patudo” (Thunnus Obesus), el establecimiento de condiciones para limitar las compras de pescado  procedente de zonas FAO donde el atún se encuentra sobrexplotado y alcanzar un 10% del volumen total el pescado sobre banco libre (pescado sin FADs), el pescado a caña o el pescado certificado “APR” (Atún de Pesca Responsable) por AENOR, FIP o MSC son algunos de los compromisos exigidos por EROSKI a sus proveedores con el fin de garantizar una explotación racional de los recursos marinos.

Asimismo, con el fin de garantizar la sostenibilidad de todo el atún en conserva comercializado en sus establecimientos, la cooperativa ha puesto en marcha un programa de auditorías externas realizadas por AZTI y MRAG Américas.

Doce principios en la Política de Pesca Sostenible de EROSKI

EROSKI está comprometida con una Política de Pesca Sostenible que recoge los principios en los que basa la comercialización de productos de pesca. Se apoya en doce principios:

  1. Sostenibilidad de su oferta comercial, lo que exige una revisión y actualización constante en función de los recursos pesqueros.
  2. No comercialización de productos procedentes de la pesca ilegal.
  3. Respeto de las tallas mínimas y proactividad para establecer tallas mínimas superiores a las establecidas por la normativa vigente.
  4. Apuesta por las artes de pesca sostenibles, como anzuelo para el pescado grande y cerco para el pescado pequeño. Concretamente, en cuanto al bonito fresco y en conserva que comercializa con su marca propia, se aprovisiona únicamente de bonito pescado con anzuelo.
  5. Apuesta por los productos sostenibles y certificados como MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) para pesca extractiva.
  6. Apuesta por las cofradías y proveedores locales más cercanos a sus tiendas con el objeto de minimizar el impacto ambiental y favorecer el desarrollo económico y social del entorno.
  7. Minimización del impacto ambiental en toda la cadena de suministro de la pesca, a través de la eficiencia logística, la mejora de la cadena de frío, las prácticas de la economía circular en la gestión de envases y embalajes y la valorización de residuos y subproductos, además de su compromiso con el desperdicio alimentario.
  8. Proveedores que cumplan y respeten los derechos fundamentales de los trabajadores de la Pesca según el Convenio 188 de la OIT sobre el trabajo en la pesca, y según nuestra SA8000 de Responsabilidad Social.
  9. Etiquetado y comunicación transparente con los consumidores, informando del arte de pesca y de la zona de pesca en todos los productos pesqueros.
  10. Escucha y colaboración con todo el sector pesquero y todos los sectores implicados.
  11. Información y formación de los consumidores en el ámbito de la pesca sostenible para sensibilizar y empoderar para la práctica de un consumo más responsable.
  12. Sistema de gobernanza, con medidas eficientes de control y auditoría que afiancen en EROSKI la práctica esta Política de Pesca Sostenible. Para ello, EROSKI cuenta además con un Consejo Asesor formado por la Unidad de Investigación Marina de AZTI, ISSF, OPAGAC y ANABAC.

En 2010 EROSKI fue el primer distribuidor español en unirse a la Iniciativa de Pesca Sostenible impulsada por WWF con el objetivo de conseguir que sus fuentes de pescado y marisco fuesen sostenibles y respetuosas con el medio ambiente.

En 2016 EROSKI se ha convertido en la primera cadena de distribución minorista en España que supera la auditoría de la organización internacional Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) para comercializar pescado fresco de caladeros sostenibles. Así, durante esta temporada 2017, cuando comience la campaña de Bonito del Norte fresco, EROSKI lo comercializará en sus pescaderías con sello azul de pesca sostenible ‘MSC’; al igual que actualmente está haciendo con la campaña de la anchoa del Cantábrico y el bacalao Skrei.

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

Source: Eroski

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Make Up For Ever opens new store in New York, the first US location to feature the Go Pro Makeup experience

Make Up For Ever opens new store in New York, the first US location to feature the Go Pro Makeup experience

 

Paris, 2017-Mar-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — Make Up For Ever has opened its new global flagship in New York, the first US location to feature the Go Pro Makeup experience. Go Pro Makeup is a unique live makeup tutorial for people of all skill levels, allowing them to learn new techniques and try out the brand’s products with guidance from a professional makeup artist.

Inspired by innovation and a desire to share professional makeup techniques since its founding in 1984, Make Up For Ever has introduced an exciting new in-store concept that brings guests a unique experience, guided by professional makeup artists. Recently launched in Paris, London and Singapore, the Go Pro Makeup bar has arrived in New York at the new Make Up For Ever global flagship.

Designed to bring guests highly-personalized service and inspire their creativity, the Go Pro Makeup bar features a moving belt on which sets of products are grouped to create a makeup skill – highlighting or contouring for example, or a specific look – in just five minutes. Guests select the makeup skill they want to learn, sit at one of the seven seats and follow the step-by-step instructions. Guided by a professional makeup artist, they also receive personalized advice. The Go Pro Makeup experience also includes makeup classes lasting around 20 minutes, enabling people to learn a new skill they can recreate at home.

With its new flagship Make Up For Ever shares its expertise and passion, creating a store where customers can learn and play in a relaxed, comfortable environment, empowering self-expression through makeup.

Contact:

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

Source: LVMH

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LVMH to acquire majority share in Maison Francis Kurkdjian

LVMH to acquire majority share in Maison Francis Kurkdjian

 

Paris, 2017-Mar-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — Motivated by a shared vision of French perfume making and the creativity that inspires it, LVMH and Maison Francis Kurkdjian have announced their association in order to jointly pursue the long-term development of the fragrance House. Under the agreement LVMH will acquire a majority share in Maison Francis Kurkdjian. Marc Chaya and Francis Kurkdjian will continue in their current roles as Chief Executive Officer and Creative Director, respectively, and will remain shareholders of the company.

Maison Francis Kurkdjian has since its founding in 2009 created contemporary fragrances characterized by excellence, savoir-faire and audacity. Consistent with the vision of the two founders, Maison Francis Kurkdjian is emblematic of a new generation of exclusive and atypical fragrance Houses. The House’s fragrance collection is conceived as a “fragrance wardrobe”. Committed to uncompromising quality in the unique tradition of French fine perfumery, the House at the same time proposes a contemporary vision of the art of creating and wearing perfume. Maison Francis Kurkdjian is currently present in 40 countries and in 2016 became a member of the Comité Colbert, the association that promotes French luxury and art de vivre around the world.

Internationally-renowned perfumer Francis Kurkdjian has designed visionary fragrances that meld exacting quality and contemporary flair for leading names in beauty and fashion. He has in particular collaborated with several LVMH Houses, including Acqua di Parma, Christian Dior, Guerlain and, most recently, Kenzo. For more than 20 years he has explored new creative territories in fragrances through his own bespoke fragrance atelier, collaborations with artists and pop-up installations. Francis Kurkdjian received the honorary title of Chevalier des Arts et Lettres in 2008. A former partner at Ernst & Young in Paris, Marc Chaya has been part of the perfumer-manager duo that has led Maison Francis Kurkdjian since they founded it in 2009.

The acquisition by LVMH of a majority interest in Maison Francis Kurkdjian will allow the fragrance House to pursue its growth, in particular in international markets, fully respecting its distinctive character, uncompromising quality standards and creative freedom.

“We share the same spirit of creativity, excellence and entrepreneurial drive as the LVMH Group. This rapprochement is built on a shared vision and we will continue to guide the future of our House as part of an exceptional Group,” says Marc Chaya, co-founder of Maison Francis Kurkdjian.

Contact:

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

Source: LVMH

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FMI and NRF to combine existing risk and safety signature events into one cross-industry gathering

ORLANDO, 2017-Mar-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — The Food Marketing Institute (FMI) and the National Retail Federation (NRF) will partner on PROTECT in 2018, according to a live joint announcement made today (March 21, 2017) at the Audit, Safety, Asset Protection Conference in Orlando. The two associations will combine their existing risk and safety signature events into one cross-industry gathering starting in 2018.

The association executives for each group offered the following statements about the future of their working relationship and meeting the specialized needs of loss prevention, risk and safety, organized retail crime investigators, risk management and retail operations professionals:

FMI President and CEO Leslie G. Sarasin said, “Respecting the changing grocery landscape and the intense consolidation our industry has witnessed over the last several years, our trade groups are making similar strategic decisions to maximize efficiencies and deliver greater value to the audiences we serve. Our partnership with NRF on PROTECT 2018 will afford our food retail members the opportunity to expand their horizons, network in a larger sphere and get at the root of what they seek to do best – mitigate risk.”

NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay said, “Securing retail brands, assets, people and profits is the essence of PROTECT’s brand promise. We are enthusiastic to amplify the sphere of influence of this gathering and ultimately help deliver the resources and information necessary to safeguard, prepare, protect and defend the nation’s commerce streams.”

More information about PROTECT in Dallas on June 11-18, 2018 will be forthcoming at this year’s PROTECT being held at the Gaylord in Washington DC June 26 -28.

About FMI
Food Marketing Institute proudly advocates on behalf of the food retail industry. FMI’s U.S. members operate nearly 40,000 retail food stores and 25,000 pharmacies, representing a combined annual sales volume of almost $770 billion. Through programs in public affairs, food safety, research, education and industry relations, FMI offers resources and provides valuable benefits to more than 1,225 food retail and wholesale member companies in the United States and around the world. FMI membership covers the spectrum of diverse venues where food is sold, including single owner grocery stores, large multi-store supermarket chains and mixed retail stores. For more information, visit www.fmi.org; for information regarding the FMI foundation, visit www.fmifoundation.org.

About NRF
NRF is the world’s largest retail trade association, representing discount and department stores, home goods and specialty stores, Main Street merchants, grocers, wholesalers, chain restaurants and Internet retailers from the United States and more than 45 countries. Retail is the nation’s largest private sector employer, supporting one in four U.S. jobs — 42 million working Americans. Contributing $2.6 trillion to annual GDP, retail is a daily barometer for the nation’s economy.

Contact:
Ana Serafin Smith
(202) 626-8189
press@nrf.com
(855) NRF-Press

Source: NRF

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RILA to host 2017 Retail Asset Protection Conference on April 9-12 in New Orleans, LA

Arlington , VA, 2017-Mar-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — ​For the first time, members of the media are invited to attend the 2017 Retail Asset Protection Conference, hosted by the Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) April 9-12 in New Orleans, LA.

The conference will bring together top global retail asset protection executives and industry experts for three days of discussions around the complex challenges facing retailers today. The program will focus on the latest trends and technologies transforming the industry and will cover the whole spectrum of asset protection including crimes against businesses, operational loss, workplace safety, business intelligence and analytics, and leadership and development.

In addition, the 2017 (R)Tech Asset Protection: Innovation Awards will be held at the conference, during which RILA will recognize innovative companies developing game-changing technology for the retail asset protection community. The Exhibit Hall will also be a forum for leading solution providers and retail technology companies to showcase industry innovations throughout the conference.

The conference sessions open to press are outlined here.

What: 2017 Retail Asset Protection Conference

Who:

  • Keynote speaker Richard Ashworth, president, pharmacy & retail operations, Walgreen Co.
  • Kimberly Overton, chief resource prosecutor, North Carolina Conference of District Attorneys
  • Aaron Miller, director, New Orleans Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness
  • Patrick Van Horne, co-author of Left to Bang
  • Matthew Rubin, retail strategy executive, Accenture
  • Hannah Ubl, research director, BridgeWorks
  • Closing keynote speaker Brandon Smith, The Workplace Therapist
  • Asset protection executives from leading retailers
  • Innovative retail technology companies
  •  RILA’s asset protection experts

When: April 9-12, 2017

Where: Hyatt Regency New Orleans, New Orleans, Louisiana

RSVP: Members of the media should contact Caroline Stec at caroline.stec@rila.org, (703) 600-2082 for details and to confirm participation.

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

Contact:

Christin Fernandez
Vice President, Communications
Phone: 703-600-2039
Email: christin.fernandez@rila.org

Source: RILA

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Riviana Foods Inc. recalls certain Ronzoni® Thin Spaghetti cartons that may contain an egg fettuccine product

Riviana Foods Inc. recalls certain Ronzoni® Thin Spaghetti cartons that may contain an egg fettuccine product

 

Houston, Texas, 2017-Mar-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — Riviana Foods Inc. is voluntarily recalling 610 cases of certain coded Ronzoni® Thin Spaghetti cartons that may contain an egg fettuccine product. The affected Ronzoni Thin Spaghetti cartons do not declare the allergen “egg”, which is an ingredient in the egg fettuccine product. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to egg run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products. The affected product was processed at a Riviana co-manufacturer’s facility on January 20, 2017.

The only product at issue can be identified by the manufacturing code and UPC number listed on the left end of the package as listed in the chart below.

Product Size Product Name Manufacturing Code Individual Package UPC
16 oz. each; Ronzoni Thin Spaghetti JAN 20 19 K 71300 000097

No other varieties and no other manufacturing codes are included in this recall.

At this time, Riviana has received no consumer communications about the affected product with this code date and no reports of illness or injury associated with this product.

Riviana has instructed distributors and retailers who purchased affected product from Riviana to segregate the recalled products from their inventories so that a Riviana sales representative may assist retailers in the disposition of the product.

Consumers should return the affected product to the store where they purchased it for a full refund. Consumers who may have questions or concerns should call Riviana’s toll free Consumer Relations number at 1-800-730-5957 between 9 am and 5 pm (Eastern).

Consumers Contact:

1-800-730-5957

Source: FDA

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EuroCan Manufacturing recalls Barnsdale Farms®, HoundsTooth® and Mac’s Choice® Pig Ears due to potential contamination of Salmonella

EuroCan Manufacturing recalls Barnsdale Farms®, HoundsTooth® and Mac’s Choice® Pig Ears due to potential contamination of Salmonella

 

New Hamburg, Ontario, 2017-Mar-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — EuroCan Manufacturing is voluntarily recalling Lot Number 84 consisting of it’s individually shrink-wrapped, 6-pack, 12-pack and 25-pack bags of Barnsdale Farms®, HoundsTooth® and Mac’s Choice® Pig Ears because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. Salmonella can affect animals eating the products and there is a risk to humans from handling contaminated pet products, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after having contact with the products or any surfaces exposed to these products.

Healthy people infected with Salmonella should monitor themselves for some or all of the following symptoms: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever. Rarely, Salmonella can result in more serious ailments, including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. Consumers exhibiting these signs after having contact with this product should contact their healthcare provider.

Pets with Salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Some pets will have only decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans. If your pet has consumed the recalled product and has these symptoms, please contact your veterinarian.

The pig ears were distributed throughout the United States and Canada. The pig ears were packaged as individually shrink-wrapped, 6-pack, 12-pack and 25-pack bags in the Barnsdale Farms®, Barnsdale Farms®-Select, Houndstooth® and Mac’s Choice® brands. The lot number being recalled is 84. No illnesses of any kind have been reported to date.

The potential for contamination was noted after routine testing revealed the presence of Salmonella in the product. The company has suspended distribution of the product while FDA and the company continue their investigation as to the source of the problem. Consumers who have purchased any of the above-described Barnsdale Farms® pig ears should return product to the place of purchase for a refund. Consumer with questions may contact the company Monday – Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Eastern Standard Time at (888) 290-7606.

Consumers Contact:

(888) 290-7606

Source: FDA

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Wegmans Food Markets to open stores in Hanover, NJ on July 23 and in Montvale, NJ on Sept. 24

Hiring and training are ongoing at both locations and a culinary recruitment event will be held Monday, March 27, from 2 to 6 p.m. 

ROCHESTER, NY, 2017-Mar-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — Wegmans Food Markets announced today (March 21, 2017) the grand opening dates for its two locations in Northern New Jersey. Wegmans Hanover, a 113,000 square-foot supermarket, will open in Hanover’s Mack-Cali campus at the intersection of I-287 and NJ Route 10 on Sunday, July 23. The company’s Montvale store, a 108,000 square-foot supermarket, will open at West Grand Avenue and Mercedes Drive on Sunday, Sept. 24.

Hiring and training are ongoing for both stores, which will each employ approximately 500 people. Wegmans Montvale is now accepting applications for 300 part-time customer service and culinary positions across every department. Select full-time openings remain at both locations for culinary line cooks, prepared foods, and departments like meat and seafood. Applicants are encouraged to apply online at www.wegmans.com/careers.

“For 20 consecutive years, Wegmans has ranked high on FORTUNE magazine’s list of ‘The 100 Best Companies to Work For,’ recently placing second,” said Wegmans Human Resources Manager Ruth Ann Virgil. “We proudly attribute that recognition to putting our employees first, offering competitive pay and benefits, flexible scheduling for work-life balance, career growth, and college tuition assistance through our employee scholarship program.”

Wegmans will host a culinary recruitment event on Monday, March 27, from 2 to 6 p.m. at the following employment office locations:

Wegmans Hanover
6 Century Dr.
Parsippany, NJ 07054
973-490-2500

Wegmans Montvale
50 Chestnut Ridge Rd.
Suite 108
Montvale, NJ 07645
201-391-0100

“Above all, we’re looking for people who are passionate about food and helping our customers enjoy great meals. Wegmans is the ideal place for a culinary career because of the stunning variety of restaurant-quality prepared foods we offer. If someone is eager to learn, our executive chefs and first-class training programs teach all the skills needed to be successful,” said Virgil.

Both stores will feature The Burger Bar by Wegmans, a family-friendly, casual restaurant counter that serves delicious burgers, fresh salads, flavorful sandwiches, specialty milkshakes, soup, and sides. In addition to the supermarkets, space will be leased to a third-party owner at each location for a wine, beer, and spirits shop.

Wegmans broll

Images available for download

Wegmans Food Markets, Inc. is a 92-store supermarket chain with stores in New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Virginia, Maryland, and Massachusetts. The family-owned company, recognized as an industry leader and innovator, celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2016. Wegmans has been named one of the ‘100 Best Companies to Work For’ by FORTUNE magazine for 20 consecutive years, ranking #2 in 2017.

Press Contact:
Valerie Fox
Media Relations Coordinator
585-720-5713
valerie.fox@wegmans.com

Source: Wegmans Food Markets, Inc.

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Starbucks teams up with French fashion house Paul & Joe for spring merchandise collection

Starbucks teams up with French fashion house Paul & Joe for spring merchandise collection

 

Seattle, 2017-Mar-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — This is what happens when a fashion house meets a coffeehouse.

Starbucks has collaborated with acclaimed French fashion house Paul & Joe to offer a curated collection of exclusive designer merchandise to celebrate the spring season. Designed exclusively for Starbucks and available only for a limited time, the 2017 Paul & Joe + Starbucks® Designer Collection will be offered at Starbucks stores throughout Asia.

The merchandise features Paul & Joe Founder Sophie Méchaly’s beloved cat Gipsy, her inspiration and the symbol of the fashion house. Pastel colors and images of cherry blossoms and butterflies help round out the designs.

“The cherry blossoms represent my favorite season in Japan,” said Méchaly. “I really enjoy the landscape in Asia. It’s like a true fairytale.”

In 2016, Starbucks Taiwan collaborated with Paul & Joe to create a merchandise collection to celebrate its 20th anniversary. Due to the collection’s popularity, Starbucks worked with Paul & Joe again in 2017 to design merchandise for broader distribution.

“This partnership with Starbucks is ideal as Paul & Joe is more than just a fashion brand. Our brand represents individuality and sophistication while maintaining a sense of fun, which our customers love,” said Méchaly.

“We are thrilled to be introducing this collection, the latest in a series of Starbucks partnerships with leading designers to inspire and delight our customers as they express their passion for fashion,” said Michele Waits, Starbucks vice president of Marketing and Category for the China and Asia Pacific Region.

The 2017 Paul & Joe + Starbucks® Designer Collection includes:

Paul & Joe + Starbucks® Double Walled Mugs

This 12-ounce, double wall, new bone China ceramic mug has a plastic lid and features the Paul & Joe iconic cat design, falling cherry blossom petals and butterfly artwork.

Paul & Joe + Starbucks® Tote

A cotton tote bag featuring the Paul & Joe iconic cat design and falling cherry blossom petals artwork.

Paul & Joe + Starbucks® Tumbler

This 16-ounce stainless steel tumbler with plastic lid features the Paul & Joe ionic cat design and falling cherry blossom petals artwork.

MEDIA CONTACT:

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

SOURCE: Starbucks Corporation

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John Lewis appoints Julie Blake as Branch Manager for its first ever shop in Oxford

London, 2017-Mar-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — John Lewis has taken the next step toward opening its first ever shop in Oxford today ( 16 March 2017) by announcing the appointment of long-standing Partner Julie Blake as Branch Manager.

Julie will be responsible for the overall success of the 120,000 sq ft shop, which represents an £18m investment in Oxford by John Lewis. As branch manager of John Lewis Oxford, Julie will lead around 300 local Partners (staff), including sales assistants and specialist advisers.

Julie has been with John Lewis for over 30 years, having started as an A-level management trainee at the retailer’s Reading department store. She later went on to spend time as General Manager, Selling at John Lewis’ flagship Oxford Street store, where she was responsible for seven selling floors as well as the PR, Marketing and Visual Merchandising for the branch. Julie has been at the helm of many John Lewis shops, undertaking the role of Branch Manager at John Lewis Watford, John Lewis Solihull and most recently, John Lewis At Home in Newbury.

Commenting on her new role, Julie Blake, Branch Manager at John Lewis Oxford said: ‘As someone who works in the surrounding area, I’ve been following the plans for John Lewis Oxford very closely. I am beyond excited to be appointed Branch Manager for our first Oxford shop and to play a role at Westgate Oxford, which is set to become a spectacular retail and leisure landmark in this iconic city. I began my own career with this business and I can’t wait to start building a fantastic team of new Partners to deliver the outstanding customer service that John Lewis is known for.’

John Lewis Oxford will begin accepting job applications for Section Managers in April and other roles to follow. John Lewis Oxford will open alongside other shops at the £440m Westgate Oxford development on 24 October 2017.

Notes to editors

John Lewis – John Lewis operates 48 John Lewis shops across the UK (34 department stores, 12 John Lewis at home and shops at St Pancras International and Heathrow Terminal 2) as well as johnlewis.com. It is part of the John Lewis Partnership, the UK’s largest example of worker co-ownership and all 30,000 John Lewis staff are Partners in the business.

John Lewis stocks more than 350,000 separate lines in its department store and  johnlewis.com across fashion, home and technology, and was named  ‘Best In-Store Experience’, ‘Best Clothing Retailer,’ ‘Best Electricals Retailer,’ ‘Best Furniture Retailer,’ ‘Best Homewares Retailer’ and ‘Best Click & Collect Retailer’ in the 2016 Verdict Customer Satisfaction awards.

Johnlewis.com is consistently ranked one of the top online shopping destinations in the UK. John Lewis Insurance offers a range of comprehensive insurance products – home, car, wedding and event, travel and pet insurance and life cover – delivering the values of expertise, trust and customer service expected from the John Lewis brand.

You can follow John Lewis on the following social media channels:
www.johnlewis.com/twitter
www.johnlewis.com/facebook
www.johnlewis.com/youtube.

Contact:

Elli Share
Communications Officer Corporate
Telephone: 020 7798 3145
Email: elli.share@johnlewis.co.uk

Source: John Lewis

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Bulgari expands its exclusively “made in Italy” manufacturing network with a new jewelry manufacturing facility in Valenza, Italy

Bulgari expands its exclusively “made in Italy” manufacturing network with a new jewelry manufacturing facility in Valenza, Italy

 

Paris, 2017-Mar-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — Bulgari inaugurated its new jewelry manufacturing facility in Valenza, Italy, on March 17. Bridging tradition and innovation, the 14,000-square-meter site expands Bulgari’s exclusively “made in Italy” manufacturing network.

Bulgari has continually amazed, innovated and renewed its creativity since its founding in Rome in 1884. The storied Maison bridges tradition and future once again with the inauguration of a new jewelry manufacturing facility in Valenza, Italy, a cradle of goldsmithing. The launch of the new 14,000-square-meter site will lead to the creation of 300 new jobs by 2020.

The Valenza site joins the network of Italian manufacturing facilities where Bulgari products are crafted by Italian artisans: high jewelry in Rome, accessories in Florence, perfumes in Lodi and silk in Como. Only watches are made outside Italy, in Switzerland, where they bear the prestigious Swiss Made label.

The new Manifattura Bulgari spans two buildings. The Cascina dell’Orefice is where the first goldsmiths worked in Valenza in the early 19th century.  Featuring a new wing encased entirely in glass, the completely renovated building has been dubbed the Glass House,. The second building houses production operations on three floors around a 600-square-meter interior courtyard, inspired by a Roman domus and bathing the interior in natural daylight. “This new facility is a perfect fusion of past and present, bringing together a love of beauty and the artisanal savoir-faire that has made Italy the world leader in jewelry and goldsmithing,” says Jean-Christophe Babin, Chief Executive Officer of Bulgari.

Designed by Open Project, an architecture and engineering firm specialized in integrated management of complex building systems, the Manifattura Bulgari seamlessly integrates the surrounding environment. It has been constructed using innovative technologies, materials with low environmental impact and an emphasis on sustainability. The project aims to earn certification to LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), the world’s most demanding sustainable building standard.

This ambitious project also includes the new Bulgari Jewellery Academy, where all new employees will learn time-honored jewelry making skills. The first class counts 21 young jewelry artisans and has capacity for 42 students.

Contact:

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

Source: LVMH

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