Daily Archives: July 27, 2017

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Fareva to take ownership of BCM, Walgreens Boots Alliance’s contract manufacturing business

DEERFIELD, Ill., 2017-Jul-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. (Nasdaq: WBA) today (25 July 2017 ) announces a binding offer from Fareva for a 10-year global agreement for the manufacture and supply of own beauty brands and private label products, including products for sale in the USA. The proposed agreement will create a partnership to provide Walgreens Boots Alliance with a core multinational manufacturing and development resource, enabling the company to accelerate its global product strategy.

Under the terms of the offer, Fareva will take ownership of BCM, Walgreens Boots Alliance’s contract manufacturing business, which operates factories in the UK, France and Germany.

Fareva manufactures in 11 countries, including the USA, and has significant research and development capabilities.

The proposed agreement, which is subject to Works Council consultation and regulatory approval, is expected to be completed by the end of calendar year 2017.

Notes to Editors:

About Walgreens Boots Alliance

Walgreens Boots Alliance (Nasdaq: WBA) is the first global pharmacy-led, health and wellbeing enterprise.

The company was created through the combination of Walgreens and Alliance Boots in December 2014, bringing together two leading companies with iconic brands, complementary geographic footprints, shared values and a heritage of trusted health care services through pharmaceutical wholesaling and community pharmacy care, dating back more than 100 years.

Walgreens Boots Alliance is the largest retail pharmacy, health and daily living destination across the USA and Europe. Walgreens Boots Alliance and the companies in which it has equity method investments together have a presence in more than 25* countries and employ more than 400,000* people. The company is a global leader in pharmacy-led, health and wellbeing retail and, together with the companies in which it has equity method investments, has over 13,200* stores in 11* countries as well as one of the largest global pharmaceutical wholesale and distribution networks, with over 390* distribution centers delivering to more than 230,000** pharmacies, doctors, health centers and hospitals each year in more than 20* countries. In addition, Walgreens Boots Alliance is one of the world’s largest purchasers of prescription drugs and many other health and wellbeing products.

The company’s portfolio of retail and business brands includes Walgreens, Duane Reade, Boots and Alliance Healthcare, as well as increasingly global health and beauty product brands such as No7, Botanics, Liz Earle and Soap & Glory.

In October 2016 Walgreens Boots Alliance received the United Nations Foundation Global Leadership Award for its commitment to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. The company also ranks No. 1 in the Food and Drug Stores industry of Fortune magazine’s 2017 list of the World’s Most Admired Companies.

More company information is available at www.walgreensbootsalliance.com.

* As of 31 August 2016, using publicly available information for AmerisourceBergen.
** For 12 months ending 31 August 2016, using publicly available information for AmerisourceBergen.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

All statements in this release that are not historical including, without limitation, those regarding the offer from Fareva for a 10-year global agreement, including the terms, timing, consummation and effects thereof, and any estimates of future financial and operating performance, are forward-looking statements made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “expect,” “pending,” “potential”, “likely,” “preliminary,” “would,” “could,” “should,” “can,” “will,” “project,” “intend,” “plan,” “goal,” “continue,” “synergy,” “on track,” “believe,” “seek,” “estimate,” “anticipate,” “may,” “possible,” “assume,” and variations of such words and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks, assumptions and uncertainties, including those associated with the terms, timing, consummation and effects of such proposed long term global supply agreement with Fareva, including the risk that the agreement may not be completed due to one or more closing conditions not being satisfied or waived, risks related to the ability to realize the anticipated benefits of the proposed agreement, outcome of legal and regulatory matters, the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstance that could give rise to the termination, cross-termination or modification of any of our contractual obligations, the amount of costs, fees, expenses and charges incurred in connection with strategic transactions, changes in management’s assumptions, the risks associated with governance and control matters, changes in market and regulatory conditions, and those described in Item 1A (Risk Factors) of our Form 10-K for the fiscal year ending 31 August 2016 and our Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarter ended 31 May 2017, each of which is incorporated herein by reference, and in other documents that we file or furnish with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Except to the extent required by law, we do not undertake, and expressly disclaim, any duty or obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statement after the date of this release, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions or otherwise.

Contact(s):
Media Relations:
USA
Michael Polzin
+1 847 315 2935

International
Laura Vergani
+44 (0) 20 7980 8585

Investor Relations:
Gerald Gradwell and Ashish Kohli
+1 847 315 2922

Source:  Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.

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Belk to open three new stores through the end of 2018

CHARLOTTE, N.C., 2017-Jul-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — Belk announced today (July 26, 2017) it will open three new stores through the end of 2018, part of a nearly $40 million investment in store remodels, capital improvements and new store openings in 2017. The regional retailer is dedicated to the customer experience and offering an appealing assortment of products in its “Modern. Southern. Style.” aesthetic.

Founded in 1888 by William Henry Belk in Monroe, North Carolina, Belk has kept family and community involvement at the top of its core values for its more than 125 years, which has instilled an unmistakable loyalty amongst customers.

“We really want to be an asset to the communities in which we operate,” said Lisa Harper, Belk CEO. “Our goal – and really, our hope – is to build lasting relationships with our customers and associates.”

The first of the new stores opening on October 11, 2017 are:

  • Evans, Georgia – located in the Mullins Colony shopping center at 4263 Washington Rd, Evans, Georgia 30809; and
  • Bowling Green, Kentucky – anchoring the Greenwood Mall at 2625 Scottsville Rd, Bowling Green, Kentucky 42104.

One additional store will open in 2018 in:

  • Hagerstown, Maryland – located in the Valley Mall at 17301 Valley Mall Rd, Hagerstown, Maryland 21740.

Belk’s intense focus on the customer experience will come to life in the new stores through a variety of ways, including a “buy online, pick up in store” service, phone charging stations and a service desk at the store entrance for quick, convenient access to services such as gift wrapping, returns and Belk Rewards Card payments.

In 2017, Belk also plans to remodel 12 existing stores across their 16-state footprint, an investment of nearly $10 million. An additional $15 million in funding will be used for capital improvements such as parking lots, paint and roofing.

The remodels, capital improvements and new stores continue Belk’s commitment to provide a premiere shopping experience to their customers.

Like all of the existing 292 Belk stores, the new locations and remodeled stores will offer a full range of national brands and private label fashion apparel – including Crown and Ivy, Kaari Blue, and New Directions – shoes and accessories for the entire family along with top name cosmetics, a wedding registry and a large selection of quality merchandise for the home.

“We’ve been successful in making a personal connection between our brand and our customers,” said Harper. “Our customers truly believe they know us and we are a part of their community; and they feel Belk is their store. We want to provide that level of personal connection in every community we enter.”

About Belk, Inc.

Belk, Inc., a private department store company based in Charlotte, N.C., is where Southern customers shop for their perfect Sunday dress, the Saturday night outfit, and where family and community matter most. But Belk is more than shopping – it’s where you find your own unique way to express who you are. It’s where Southern style lives. Shop Belk in 16 Southern states and on www.belk.com to find an assortment of national brands and private-label fashion, shoes and accessories for the entire family, along with top-name cosmetics, a wedding registry and southern style for the home.

CONTACT:

Andy Izquierdo
214-304-1534
Andy_Izquierdo@belk.com

Source: Belk, Inc.

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“Make room for life”: IKEA launches its 2018 IKEA U.S. catalog

CONSHOHOCKEN, PA, 2017-Jul-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — IKEA announced today (July 25, 2017) that the 2018 IKEA U.S. catalog, filled with new product offerings, home furnishing inspiration, and smart solutions for every area of the home, will be available to the public starting this August. With a particular focus on the living room, this year’s catalog is themed“Make room for life,” highlighting IKEA home furnishing solutions that enable people to live a better everyday life at home by helping them make room for the things they love.

The new catalog inspires consumers to look beyond the walls of their homes and create a comfortable space for the important things in their lives, whether it be family and friends or nature and relaxation.

“We are encouraging people to make space for their needs and dreams,” said Shideh Hashemi, Marketing Manager, IKEA U.S. “As homes rapidly change to fit our lifestyles, we want to inspire and enable people to make room for the things they love in life.”

IKEA, the leader in life at home, understands that how we meet, socialize and live in our homes has changed, especially in the living room. It is now a fluid space that serves many purposes, but still with comfort at its core. For this reason, IKEA is developing smart, affordable home furnishing solutions that can be adapted and customized. From a media center that doubles as a storage unit to a modular sleep-sofa for a home full of visitors, IKEA designs multi-purpose solutions that enable consumers to create the living room that works best for them and meets their needs for everyday life at home.

U.S. consumers can access the new catalog in multiple ways:
•Printed Version (Available starting on Aug. 2, 2017) – Available at your local IKEA store.
•Digital Version (Available starting on Aug. 7, 2017) – Visit IKEAUScatalog.com to view the digital version of the catalog, where users can save their favorite products and create shopping lists.
•Catalog App for smartphones and tablets (iOS and Android; Available starting on Aug. 7, 2017) – Download the IKEA catalog app to access richer, deeper content including videos and an augmented reality feature that allows users to virtually place IKEA products in their own homes. With its new, more intuitive menu, users can find inspiration, ideas and tips with just one click.

NOTE FOR PRESS: Please visit our press site at IKEA-USA.com/2018catalog for downloadable information and assets, including the press kit, digital catalog, images, videos and more. For additional information, product loans or images, please contact us at Kathy.Boerner@Ketchum.com. Join the conversation via the hashtag #MakeRoomForLife.

About IKEA
Since its 1943 founding in Sweden, IKEA has offered home furnishings of good design and function at low prices so the majority of people can afford them. There are currently more than 390 IKEA stores in 48 countries, including 44 in the U.S. IKEA incorporates sustainability into day-to-day business and supports initiatives that benefit children and the environment. For more information see IKEA-USA.com, @IKEAUSANews, @IKEAUSA or IKEAUSA on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram and Pinterest.

Source: IKEA

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British Land supports National Literacy Trust’s Young Readers Programme for the sixth year

British Land supports National Literacy Trust’s Young Readers Programme for the sixth year

 

London, 2017-Jul-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — British Land has partnered with the National Literacy Trust for the sixth year to support its Young Readers Programme – an initiative which has helped more than 19,000 children under the age of 11 to read for fun in their spare time. The Young Readers Programme is celebrating its 20th birthday this year.

Every child that participates in the programme is guided on how to choose books that are of interest and at the right level to encourage an interest in reading outside the classroom. Children are then given the chance to use their new skills to select three new books to take home for free.

The programme has become an annual fixture in the British Land calendar and this year took place across a record 25 local and regional assets including Drake Circus, Plymouth; Meadowhall, Sheffield; Fort Kinnaird, Edinburgh and Old Market, Hereford.

A new addition to the programme is the ‘Young Reading Hero’ competition which identifies and rewards children under the age of 11 who use reading to positively benefit others. The competition is taking place for the second time this year across 15 Local and Regional centres.

A literacy-themed prize will be awarded to the winner at each of the 15 assets including £100 of National Book Tokens for their school, £50 of National Book Tokens for themselves, plus a copy of ‘My Brother is a Superhero’ by David Solomons – winner of last year’s Waterstones Children’s Book Prize.

Charles Maudsley, Head of Retail, Leisure and Residential for British Land, said: “The Young Readers Programme is a fantastic initiative to aid children’s development as well as boosting literacy levels across the country and we are delighted to support the programme for a sixth year. The programme has been running for 20 years now which is testament to the success and creativity of the scheme which continues to engage young children and drive a passion for reading. Literacy underpins the long-term wellbeing and prosperity of every community and I’m very proud to help support the communities we operate in.”

Jonathan Douglas, Director of the National Literacy Trust, said: “We know that reading for pleasure is one of the most effective ways to help children reach their full potential. Encouraging children to read for enjoyment is an important step towards boosting literacy levels. Our research shows that children who enjoy reading every day outside school are five times more likely to read above the expected level for their age than those who don’t. With the support of British Land, its retail centres and retailers across the UK, our Young Readers Programme has helped more than 19,000 children choose books to enjoy and keep. For many, these were the first books they had ever owned.”

Notes to Editors

About British Land
Our portfolio of high quality UK commercial property is focused on Retail around the UK and London Offices. We own or manage a portfolio valued at £19.1 billion (British Land share: £13.9 billion) as at 31 March 2017 making us one of Europe’s largest listed real estate investment companies.

Our strategy is to provide places which meet the needs of our customers and respond to changing lifestyles – Places People Prefer. We do this by creating great environments both inside and outside our buildings and use our scale and placemaking skills to enhance and enliven them. This expands their appeal to a broader range of occupiers, creating enduring demand and driving sustainable, long term performance.

Our Retail portfolio is focused on Regional and Local multi-let centres, and accounts for 48% of our portfolio. Our Offices portfolio comprises three office-led campuses in central London as well as high quality standalone buildings and accounts for 49% of our portfolio. Increasingly our focus is on providing a mix of uses and this is most evident at Canada Water, our 46 acre redevelopment opportunity where we have plans to create a new neighbourhood for London.

Sustainability is embedded throughout our business. Our places, which are designed to meet high sustainability standards, become part of local communities, provide opportunities for skills development and employment and promote wellbeing. Our industry-leading sustainability performance led to British Land being named a European Sector Leader in the 2016 Global Real Estate Sustainability Benchmark for the third year running.

In April 2016 British Land received the Queen’s Award for Enterprise: Sustainable Development, the UK’s highest accolade for business success for economic, social and environmental achievements over a period of five years.

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

Media Enquiries:
Jackie Janssen
Retail PR Manager
British Land
020 7467 3449

Emma Hammond
Senior Director
FTI Consulting
020 3727 1227

Source: British Land

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The Connecticut Food Bank received $195,460 donation from Price Rite and ShopRite

WALLINGFORD, CONN., 2017-Jul-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — The Connecticut Food Bank welcomed representatives from Price Rite and ShopRite stores to celebrate the food bank’s 20-year partnership with ShopRite and Price Rite — a relationship that has helped provide 8.4 million meals to hungry Connecticut residents.

The food bank honored the store owners and leadership teams with a celebration lunch on Thursday, July 20, at the Connecticut Food Bank Wallingford headquarters and distribution center.

“We saw July 20 as the perfect day to honor ShopRite and Price Rite as we celebrate our 20th year of fighting hunger together in Connecticut,” said Connecticut Food Bank CEO Bernie Beaudreau. “This is an opportunity for us to say thank you and for our friends from ShopRite and Price Rite to see where their donations go and how we can continue to help meet needs across the region.”

Beaudreau said combined ShopRite and Price Rite store and corporate donations to the Connecticut Food Bank since 1998 amounted to more than 1.22 million pounds of food and $4.3 million in funding. “These donations have provided 8.4 million meals for residents facing hunger in Connecticut,” Beaudreau added.

Thursday’s lunch included a formal recognition and an opportunity for the guests to tour the food bank. “We want our partners to know how much we appreciate their generosity and to see the care and efficiency with which we use their donations,” Beaudreau said.

About the Connecticut Food Bank:
The Connecticut Food Bank is committed to alleviating hunger in Connecticut by providing food resources, raising awareness of the challenges of hunger and advocating for people who need help meeting basic needs. The Connecticut Food Bank partners with the food industry, food growers, donors and volunteers to distribute nutritious food to people in need, which last year provided nearly 21 million meals. We distribute that food through a network of community based programs to six Connecticut counties – Fairfield, Litchfield, Middlesex, New Haven, New London and Windham counties – where more than 300,000 people struggle with hunger. Visit us on the web at www.ctfoodbank.org, like us on Facebook and follow @CTFoodBank on Twitter and Instagram.

Source:  Price Rite

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Stanley Black & Decker appoints Janet Link Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary

Stanley Black & Decker appoints Janet Link Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary

 

NEW BRITAIN, Conn., 2017-Jul-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — Stanley Black & Decker (NYSE: SWK) today (July 25, 2017) named Janet Link Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary. Link joins Stanley Black & Decker from J.C. Penney Company where she served as General Counsel. She succeeds Bruce Beatt who is retiring from the company after 17 years of service and nearly 40 years in the legal field. Link’s appointment is effective immediately and Beatt will remain with the company for a transition period extending through April 2018.

“The Stanley Black & Decker team is appreciative of Bruce’s tireless devotion to the company’s success, and we wish him much enjoyment in his retirement,” said Stanley Black & Decker President & CEO Jim Loree. “We are thrilled that Janet is joining our team. Her seasoned legal background and expertise in the retail industry will be of significant value to our organization. In addition, we are confident Janet will continue stewarding the company’s focus on integrity in all our interactions, helping to ensure we maintain high standards of ethical conduct as we pursue our growth goals. Nothing could be more important to our company.”

Prior to J.C. Penney, Link held deputy general counsel positions at Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc., and CC Media Holdings, Inc. (now known as iHeartMedia). She began her legal career with a U.S. District Court clerkship in the Central District of California followed by a clerkship with the Honorable James R. Browning, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth District. She was also a partner at Latham & Watkins.

Link earned her bachelor’s from Yale University and her J.D. from Columbia University School of Law.

About Stanley Black & Decker

Stanley Black & Decker, an S&P 500 company, is a diversified global provider of hand tools, power tools and related accessories, electronic security solutions, healthcare solutions, engineered fastening systems, and more. Learn more at www.stanleyblackanddecker.com.

Investor Contacts:

Greg Waybright
Vice President, Investor Relations
greg.waybright@sbdinc.com
(860) 827-3833

Dennis Lange
Vice President, Investor Relations
(860) 827-3833
dennis.lange@sbdinc.com

Media Contacts:

Shannon Lapierre
Vice President, Communications
shannon.lapierre@sbdinc.com
(860) 827-3575

Tim Perra
Vice President, Public Affairs
tim.perra@sbdinc.com
(860) 826-3260

SOURCE: Stanley Black & Decker

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Wegmans to sample the season’s freshest and best ingredients on Saturday July 29th, 2017

ROCHESTER, NY, 2017-Jul-27 — /EPR Retail News/ —

WHAT: At this fun and interactive event, customers can stop by stations throughout the store to sample the season’s freshest and best ingredients – another way to live healthier, better lives through food! Learn about the local family farms that grow many of the products that Wegmans sells and try organic and Food You Feel Good About options.

WHEN: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday July 29th, 2017

WHERE: All Wegmans Food Markets stores – except Hanover, N.J. location

Visit Wegmans on Saturday, July 29th to taste the best ingredients of the summer season. Customers will learn about our organic options, Food You Feel Good About products and the items we carry from family farms near our stores. Enter a drawing to win dinner on us – a meal valued at over $30 featuring Angus burgers, veggie noodles and corn.

Samples will be offered in a variety of departments, some of the highlights include:

Produce Department: Zucchini Noodle Raw Salad and Crunchy Asian Veggie Noodle Salad

Meat Department: Food You Feel Good About Angus Beef Burgers

Cheese: Wegmans Intense 26-Month New York Cheddar Cheese

Bakery: Ultimate Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake

Grocery: Wegmans Organic Smooth Unsalted Almond Butter and Wegmans Organic Animal Cookies

Wegmans Food Markets, Inc. is a 93-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:
Jo Natale
Vice President of Media Relations
585-429-3627

Source: Wegmans Food Markets, Inc.

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PetSmart Charities survey reveals that more pets would be rescued if people received more information on how to adopt a pet

Good News is Respondents Are Quick to Cite Pet Adoption as the Solution and Report the Many Benefits of Having a Pet—Emotional, Physical and More

PHOENIX, 2017-Jul-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — American pet parents significantly underestimate the current pet homelessness issue facing the country, according to a new survey commissioned by PetSmart Charities, the leading funder of animal welfare in North America, and conducted by Wakefield Research.

When asked for their thoughts on the approximate number of pets that enter shelters each year in North America, 84 percent of survey respondents said they believe the answer is less than 1 million pets per year. Alarmingly, the actual number is closer to 6.5 million annually—a harsh reality that approximately two percent of survey respondents seem to grasp.

The good news is pet adoption is widely recognized as a solution to the pet homelessness issue, and an increasingly popular path when prospective pet parents decide to add a new four-legged member to their family. Ninety-six percent of those surveyed agreed that more pets would be rescued if people received more information on how to adopt a pet.

“This survey demonstrates the continuing need to educate current and prospective pet parents about how easy it is to adopt a pet, and the difference adoption can make to this issue that is so wide-spread across the U.S.,” said David Haworth, DVM, Ph.D., president of PetSmart Charities. “Programs like PetSmart Charities’ National Adoption Weekends are moving the needle by finding homes for as many as 20,000 pets in a single event. But there is more we can do. Through the Survey Companion Guide, we’re continuing to raise awareness of the pet homelessness issue and how we can work together to ensure every pet finds the forever family and home they deserve.”

Seventy percent of pet parents surveyed say they would look to an animal welfare agency as a key source of information about how to adopt a pet, and another 40 percent of those surveyed said they would also turn to their local pet store. One need only look at PetSmart’s successful in-store adoption program to see that survey respondents were right on both counts. Nearly two of every 10 pet adoptions in North America are facilitated at a PetSmart store. Since the early 1990s, PetSmart Charities has partnered with more than 3,000 animal welfare agencies to operate pet adoption space inside PetSmart stores, while also offering pet food and supplies for pets while they await adoption. Nearly all the 1,500-plus PetSmart stores feature adoption space at their stores, free to their adoption partners, creating a convenient, friendly environment where pets are connected with new forever families. Since the program began, PetSmart and PetSmart Charities have helped more than 7.5 million pets find homes.

Survey Shows Pets’ Positive Contribution to Human Health and Happiness
Today, pet parents are relying on their pets more than ever before through the good times and the bad. Among parents, 92percent of surveyed pet owners said their children frequently turn to their family pet when they are sad, upset or in need of comfort. And children aren’t the only ones relying on their pets. Among those employed, 64 percent of pet parents reported that giving up their pet would be worse than losing their jobs.

What’s more, 93 percent of people surveyed said they had experienced at least one health benefit from pet parenthood. Benefits cited include improved mood and decreased stress to increased physical activity, weight loss and enhanced work-life balance. In fact, the overwhelming majority of people surveyed (94 percent) agreed with the statement that pets are essential for people to maintain good mental and physical health.

“The results of the PetSmart Charities-commissioned survey speak volumes about the human-animal bond and the tremendous value pets bring to our everyday lives,” said Dr. Haworth. “Once they are adopted, not only do they provide unconditional love and support, but pets have also become irreplaceable members of our families and an essential part of our physical and emotional well-being.”

PetSmart Charities has created a quick and easy Survey Companion Guide showcasing strong reasons to adopt, and additional fun facts from the survey like what percentage of Americans would rather talk to their pet than a therapist during a difficult time. To learn more, click here to download the guide.

Survey Methodology

The PetSmart Charities-commissioned survey was conducted by Wakefield Research among 1,000 pet parents in the U.S. Respondents were randomly selected and completed the survey online between the dates of March 14-21, 2017.

About PetSmart Charities®

PetSmart Charities, Inc. is a nonprofit animal welfare organization with a mission to find lifelong, loving homes for all pets by supporting programs and thought leadership that bring people and pets together. In addition to finding homes for almost 500,000 shelter pets each year through its in-store adoption program in all PetSmart stores across the U.S. and Puerto Rico, PetSmart Charities provides funding to non-profits aligned with its mission through four key areas of grant support: Preventing Pet Homelessness; Helping Shelter Pets Thrive; Supporting the Bond Between People and Pets; and Emergency Relief and Disaster Support. Each year, millions of generous PetSmart shoppers help pets in need by donating to PetSmart Charities using the pin pads at checkout registers inside PetSmart stores. In turn, PetSmart Charities efficiently uses 90 cents of every dollar donated and has become the leading funder of animal welfare in North America, donating about $300 million to date. PetSmart Charities, a 501(c)(3) organization, has received the Four Star Rating from Charity Navigator, an independent organization that reports on the effectiveness, accountability and transparency of nonprofits, for the past 14 years in a row — placing it among the top one percent of charities rated by this organization. To learn more visit www.petsmartcharities.org
Follow PetSmart Charities on Twitter: @PetSmartChariTs
Find PetSmart Charities on Facebook: Facebook.com/PetSmartCharities
See PetSmart Charities on YouTube: YouTube.com/PetSmart CharitiesInc

About PetSmart Charities™ of Canada

PetSmart Charities of Canada is a registered Canadian charity with a mission to find lifelong, loving homes for all pets by supporting programs and thought leadership that bring people and pets together.  In addition to finding homes for more than 25,000 shelter pets each year through its in-store adoption program in all PetSmart stores, PetSmart Charities of Canada provides funding to registered charities aligned with its mission through four key areas of grant support: Preventing Pet Homelessness; Helping Shelter Pets Thrive; Supporting the Bond Between People and Pets; and Emergency Relief and Disaster Support. Each year, millions of generous PetSmart shoppers help pets in need by donating to PetSmart Charities of Canada using the pin pads at checkout registers inside PetSmart stores.  In turn, PetSmart Charities efficiently uses 89 cents of every dollar donated and has become a leading funder of animal welfare in Canada, donating nearly $12 million to date.  PetSmart Charities of Canada is a member of Imagine Canada, and a registered Canadian charity independent from PetSmart, Inc. To learn more, visit www.petsmartcharities.ca

Contact:
Virginia Hock
Golin for PetSmart
469-680-2611
vhock@golin.com

PetSmart Media Line:
623-587-2177

Source: PetSmart,  Inc.

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Tesco extends its same day online grocery delivery service across the entire UK

Tesco extends its same day online grocery delivery service across the entire UK

 

CHESHUNT, England, 2017-Jul-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — Tesco has today (24 Jul 2017) announced it is extending its same day online grocery delivery service across the entire UK, making it the first retailer to offer nationwide same day grocery delivery.

Tesco launched same day grocery delivery in London and the South East in 2014 and is now extending the service to over 300 stores across the UK, covering over 99% of UK households. This is the biggest reach of any retailer in the UK, stretching from the Shetland Islands in Scotland to Cornwall in south-west England.

Customers can order by 1pm to have their shopping delivered from 7pm onwards and receive an unlimited number of items. The new service is priced between £3 and £8 but is free for a limited period to members of Tesco’s online delivery membership scheme, Delivery Saver.

Same day deliveries are proving increasingly popular with Tesco seeing an 18% growth in demand for the service so far this year.

Earlier this year Tesco also extended its Same Day Click+Collect service to 300 locations across the UK and today’s announcement means it is the only retailer to offer both Same Day grocery delivery and Click+Collect nationwide.

Adrian Letts, managing director of Tesco Online said:

“Customers tell us they like getting their shopping delivered quickly and conveniently, and with our same day delivery service they can now order by lunch to get their shopping delivered for their evening meal.

He adds:“We’ve seen the service grow in popularity since we launched it in London and the South East so we’re really excited to be rolling it out to customers nationwide.”

  • Nationwide rollout of same day delivery will be complete by the end of August.
  • Same Day Delivery is available seven days a week in London and the South East and six days a week (Monday to Saturday) across the rest of the UK.
  • Same day Flexi-saver home delivery slots are available from £3 and one hour slots from £4.
  • Order by 1 pm for delivery from 7 pm.
  • Tesco delivered its first online order back in 1984 when Jane Snowball from Gateshead ordered groceries to be delivered from her local store. Since then its online grocery service has evolved to offer a variety of options, including home delivery, Click and Collect and Delivery Saver – a loyalty scheme to help regular online customers save more. In June Tesco further enhanced its grocery delivery service by launching Tesco Now, which offers deliveries within an hour to customers in Central London.

Source: Tesco

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First Data elects Henrique De Castro to its Board of Directors

NEW YORK, 2017-Jul-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — First Data (NYSE: FDC) announced today (JULY 24, 2017) that its Board of Directors elected technology executive Henrique De Castro as a Director of First Data. The Board has also appointed De Castro to serve as a member of the Risk Committee. De Castro’s election expands First Data’s Board from eight members to nine.

“We are very pleased to have Henrique join First Data’s Board of Directors,” said First Data Chairman and CEO Frank Bisignano. “As First Data continues to innovate and expand its offerings to our millions of business owner clients and thousands of financial institution clients around the world, Henrique’s experience and vast knowledge of the global digital and mobile marketplace will be invaluable assets to our board,” Bisignano added.

De Castro, who has held senior leadership positions at Google Inc., Dell, and McKinsey & Company, most recently served as COO at Yahoo! Inc. While at Google from 2006 to 2012, De Castro served in roles including President of Global Media, Mobile & Platforms and President of Partner Business Worldwide. During his tenure, De Castro helped build the company’s Media, Mobile & Platforms Business into the world’s leading digital business. He also helped launch Google’s Media and Mobile operations in more than 40 countries and was instrumental in several of the company’s largest acquisitions. Earlier in his career, De Castro was Director of Sales and Business Development for Dell in Western Europe and served as a management consultant with McKinsey & Company.

“First Data has made enormous strides over the last several years and is poised for further growth as a world leader in commerce-enabling technology,” said De Castro. “I am honored to join First Data’s Board and work with Frank Bisignano and my colleagues as we help clients around the world grow their business and, in the process, increase shareholder value,” De Castro added.

De Castro also serves on the Board of Directors of Target Corporation and is an advisor to Cantor Fitzgerald. De Castro earned a Bachelor Degree in Business from the Instituto Superior de Economia e Gestão in Lisbon, Portugal and a Master of Business Administration degree from IMD in Lausanne, Switzerland.

About First Data

First Data (NYSE: FDC) is a global leader in commerce-enabling technology and solutions, serving approximately six million business locations and 4,000 financial institutions in more than 100 countries around the world. The company’s 24,000 owner-associates are dedicated to helping companies, from start-ups to the world’s largest corporations, conduct commerce every day by securing and processing more than 2,800 transactions per second and $2.2 trillion per year.

Contacts:

Mark Murphy
Public Relations
212-515-0280
Mark.Murphy@firstdata.com

Peter Poillon
Investor Relations
212-266-3565
Peter.Poillon@firstdata.com

Source: First Data

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Carrefour signs three-year extension of the “FIRE AND BUILDING SAFETY” agreement in Bangladesh

Bangladesh, 2017-Jul-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — The three-year extension of the “FIRE AND BUILDING SAFETY” agreement to improve safety conditions in textile factories in Bangladesh follows the general lines of the first agreement signed in 2013, while reinforcing certain points. The previous agreement resolved over 100,000 safety problems identified by inspections in 1,800 garment factories employing a total of over 2.5 million workers.

In 2013, following the Rana Plaza catastrophe, a five-year agreement was signed between entities placing orders for supply in the country and the main international unions under the aegis of the ILO. Today it comprises over 200 brands and aims to ensure worker safety in the factories through fire, electrical and structural inspections. Any nonconformities detected during inspections must be corrected and employees of the factories trained to ensure their safety through health and safety committees.

All of the active factories working with Carrefour were inspected and 87% of the improvement actions recommended have been implemented, compared with an average of 78% as regards the other members of the agreement. In addition, over half of these factories are involved in the process of raising awareness and training the “health and safety committees” provided for by the agreement.

The new agreement will complete the previous agreement’s compliance programme and in time, will see the Bangladeshi government take over the inspection system.

This commitment forms part of the action programme taken by Carrefour teams in Bangladesh to improve working conditions in the factories as well as environmental protection with the “Clean Water Project”.

Link to the agreement: http://bangladeshaccord.org/

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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SONIC® Drive-In introduces all-new Dunked Ultimate Chicken Sandwich

SONIC® Drive-In introduces all-new Dunked Ultimate Chicken Sandwich

 

OKLAHOMA CITY, 2017-Jul-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — SONIC® Drive-In (NASDAQ: SONC) is adding to its robust chicken lineup with the introduction of the all-new Dunked Ultimate Chicken Sandwich featuring an innovative blend of bold flavors to a guest favorite.

SONIC’s Dunked Ultimate Chicken Sandwich features a flavor-loaded, quality chicken sandwich “dunked” in rich, bold sauce over a premium all-white meat chicken fillet on a warm brioche bun. Slam-dunked in flavor, guests can choose from three premium sauces: Bourbon BBQ, a rich bourbon BBQ sauce with a smoky & sweet linger; Buffalo made with hot and spicy cayenne, red chili peppers and a touch of chipotle; and Garlic Parmesan with Parmesan cheese, roasted garlic and Italian herbs.

“Adding three bold new sauces to our Ultimate Chicken Sandwich offers guests an incredible chicken sandwich experience,” said Scott Uehlein, vice president of product innovation and development for SONIC. “When combining our three sauces with fresh ingredients, like our smoky Bourbon BBQ with crisp, crinkle-cut pickles or our Buffalo sauce mixed with cayenne pepper topped with spicy jalapenos, it complements the all-white meat chicken fillet while giving guests flavors they can’t get anywhere else.”

Pair the new Dunked Ultimate Chicken Sandwich with a side of Tots and a Cherry Limeade and let your taste buds savor the superior chicken sandwich. The Dunked Ultimate Chicken Sandwich will be available only for a limited time so get your hands on one at a drive-in near you before they’re gone.

About SONIC®, America’s Drive-In®

SONIC, America’s Drive-In is the nation’s largest drive-in restaurant chain serving approximately 3 million customers every day. More than 90 percent of SONIC’s 3,500 drive-in locations are owned and operated by local business men and women. For 64 years, SONIC has delighted guests with signature menu items, 1.3 million drink combinations and friendly service by iconic Carhops. Since the 2009 launch of SONIC’s Limeades for Learning® campaign in partnership with DonorsChoose.org, SONIC has donated $8.4 million to public school teachers’ classrooms nationwide to fund essential learning materials and innovative teaching resources to inspire creativity and learning in their students. To learn more about Sonic Corp. (NASDAQ/NM: SONC), please visit sonicdrivein.com and please visit or follow us on Facebook and Twitter. To learn about SONIC’s Limeades for Learning initiative, please visit LimeadesforLearning.com.

Contact:

Matthew Young
512-542-2802
Matthew.Young@cohnwolfe.com

Source: SONIC Drive-In

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BAUSTART IN DER MIGROS SIRNACH

BAUSTART IN DER MIGROS SIRNACH

 

Gossau, Switzerland, 2017-Jul-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — Am 7. August 2017 starten in der Migros Sirnach die Umbauarbeiten. Die Filiale bleibt ab dem 5. August um 12 Uhr bis zum Ende der Bauzeit geschlossen. Die Wiedereröffnung wird von 21. bis 23. September mit attraktiven Angeboten für die Kundschaft gefeiert.

Nachhaltiges Bauen im Fokus

Beim Umbau wird im Migros-Supermarkt ausserdem die gesamte Haustechnik auf den neuesten Stand gebracht. Für einen ressourcenschonenderen Betrieb des Supermarkts sorgen künftig die Beleuchtung mit LED-Spots und -Röhren, die Verwendung von Kühlmöbeln der neuesten Generation und die Nutzung der Abwärme der gewerblichen Kälte im Heizkreislauf sowie bei der Nachwärmung der Lüftung. Wo immer möglich werden ökologische Baustoffe verwendet. Die Migros Ostschweiz setzt gemeinsam mit den beauftragten Unternehmen, die zum grossen Teil aus der Region stammen, alles daran, die Immissionen für die Anwohnerinnen und Anwohner möglichst klein zu halten und die Arbeiten so rücksichtsvoll wie möglich zu organisieren. Insgesamt wird die Migros Ostschweiz rund 3,5 Millionen Franken in die Revitalisierung investieren.

Während des Umbaus bleibt die Migros Sirnach geschlossen, als Alternativen bieten sich während dieser Zeit die Migros-Supermärkte in Münchwilen und Wil an.

Öffnungszeiten Migros Münchwilen (Wilerstrasse 3, Münchwilen)

Montag bis Freitag:   8 bis 20 Uhr
Samstag:    8 bis 18 Uhr

Öffnungszeiten Migros Wil (Obere Bahnhofstrasse 5, Wil)

Montag und Mittwoch bis Freitag: 8 bis 19 Uhr
Dienstag:     8 bis 20 Uhr
Samstag:     8 bis 17 Uhr

Kommunikation:

Silke Seichter
Genossenschaft Migros Ostschweiz
Industriestrasse 47
9201 Gossau
TEL: 071 493 24 50
FAX: 071 493 27 89
E-MAIL: silke.seichter@gmos.ch

Source: Migros

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AHOLD DELHAIZE SHARE BUYBACK UPDATE: 1,577,079 COMMON SHARES REPURCHASED IN THE PERIOD FROM JULY 17, 2017 UP TO AND INCLUDING JULY 21, 2017

Zaandam, the Netherlands, 2017-Jul-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — Ahold Delhaize has repurchased 1,577,079 of Ahold Delhaize common shares in the period from July 17, 2017 up to and including July 21, 2017. The shares were repurchased at an average price of €17.31 per share for a total consideration of €27.3 million. These repurchases were made as part of the €1 billion share buyback program announced on December 7, 2016.

The total number of shares repurchased under this program to date is 32,386,987 common shares for a total consideration of €620 million.

Download the share buyback transactions excel sheet for detailed individual transaction information under “Files to download” (on the right).

Visit www.aholddelhaize.com/en/investors/share-information/share-buy-back-programs for a complete overview of all Ahold Delhaize share buyback programs.

Contact:

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

Source: Ahold Delhaize

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Stanley Black & Decker opens new Breakthrough Innovation center in Boston

BOSTON, 2017-Jul-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — Stanley Black & Decker (NYSE: SWK) today (July 24, 2017) announced the opening of a new Breakthrough Innovation center in Boston dedicated to advancing technological innovation in the company’s Stanley Security business. The Stanley Security Futures Innovation Factory is the company’s 11th Innovation Center globally and will initially employ approximately 20 people in Boston’s Seaport District.

“We recognize that technological innovation is changing the world at an exponentially accelerating pace and that being at the forefront of disruption is essential to success,” said Jim Loree, Stanley Black & Decker’s president and CEO. “Today marks the opening of the company’s 11th breakthrough innovation center around the globe and this team in Boston will be dedicated to ensuring that we develop the most innovative solutions in the security space.”

“Stanely Black & Decker is a global leader in electronic security solutions, and I am proud to welcome the Stanley Security Futures Innovation Factory to the City of Boston,” said John F. Barros, Chief of Economic Development, City of Boston. “Boston’s innovation ecosystem of talent, concentration of technology companies, and collaborative entrepreneur community will help the Future Innovation Factory grow and thrive while Stanley Security tranforms the security technology industry.”

Stanley Security Futures Innovation Factory is focused on uncovering disruptive business models and exploring technologies to transform and secure our world. The team will specifically concentrate on automation, additive manufacturing and artificial intelligence in the Security space, as well as the rapid commercialization of breakthrough technologies.

On Monday, July 24th, the team officially opened their doors in a brand new space located at the Innovation and Design Building in the Seaport area, a center for startup activity and advanced research, adjacent to the innovation operations of technology and industrial leaders such as Autodesk and GE. Additionally, the space is located next to the MassChallenge Headquarters, a non-profit partner focused on start-up business acceleration. The STANLEY Security team will have the opportunity to catalyze ideas and tap into the MassChallenge and other resources for inspiration and collaboration.

Stanley Black & Decker operates the world’s second largest commercial electronic security business, a $2 billion business unit focused on advanced electronic safety, security and monitoring solutions, eco-friendly automatic doors, and sophisticated patient safety and asset tracking within the healthcare space.

About Stanley Black & Decker

Stanley Black & Decker, an S&P 500 and FORTUNE 500 company, is the world’s largest provider of tools and storage, the world’s second-largest commercial electronic security company, and a leading engineered fastening systems provider, with unique growth platforms in the Oil & Gas and Infrastructure industries. Well-known brands include: STANLEY, BLACK+DECKER, DEWALT, Craftsman, Porter-Cable, Bostitch, Facom, Mac Tools, Proto, Vidmar, Lista, and more. Learn more at http://www.stanleyblackanddecker.com.

Contact:

Tim Perra
Vice President of Public Affairs
860-826-3260
tim.perra@sbdinc.com

SOURCE: Stanley Black & Decker

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Matt Ryan, Didi Gregorius and C.J. McCollum join brand ambassador Kevin Love to form the first-ever Banana Republic Men’s Style Council

NEW STYLE AMBASSADORS MATT RYAN, DIDI GREGORIUS AND C.J. MCCOLLUM JOIN BRAND AMBASSADOR KEVIN LOVE TO SHOWCASE BANANA REPUBLIC MEN’S STYLE

NEW YORK, 2017-Jul-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — Banana Republic is proud to partner with pro football quarterback and 2016 NFL MVP Matt Ryan, pro baseball shortstop Didi Gregorius and pro basketball guard and 2015-16 NBA Most Improved Player C.J. McCollum. Ryan, Gregorius and McCollum join pro basketball power forward and Banana Republic brand ambassador, Kevin Love, to form the first-ever Banana Republic Men’s Style Council – a specially-selected group of male athletes who will showcase the brand’s versatile, quality and performance-driven menswear collections through a series of campaigns and engaging programs, including personal appearances.

“The Men’s Style Council showcases some of the most dynamic and stylish athletes in sports today who exemplify the spirit of the men’s collections we are designing at Banana Republic,” says Lexi Tawes, Banana Republic SVP of Global Merchandising & Digital. “Our customers admire the individual style of each accomplished player on and off the field and court. We are honored to work with these celebrated athletes and extend their personal style through our men’s collections as they make each look their own.”

For the first Men’s Style Council campaign, Love, Ryan, Gregorius, and McCollum will launch Banana Republic Rapid Movement Chino – the newest innovation in men’s pants, engineered with proprietary performance technology. The Rapid Movement Chino collection will be available in Banana Republic stores globally and online in late July 2017.

Designed for continuous all-day comfort, Banana Republic Rapid Movement Chinos are crafted with a LYCRA® dualFX® technology that is carefully engineered to resist stretching out. The dynamic fabric offers unprecedented movement and recovery for optimal comfort and fit retention during wear. Each pair is crafted from soft cotton fabrics and fortified with a special stain- and water-repelling finish, bringing together a strong combination of tailoring + performance, fit and polish. Rapid Movement Chino will be available in trusted Aiden, Emerson and Fulton fits, and a new Tapered fit for $98.00.

About Banana Republic

Banana Republic is a global apparel and accessories brand focused on delivering versatile, contemporary classics, designed for today with style that endures.  Through thoughtful design, Banana Republic provides a wardrobe of favorites to style and wear time and time again in new ways.  Banana Republic offers fragrances, clothing, eyewear, jewelry, shoes and handbags with detailed craftsmanship and luxurious materials. Founded in San Francisco, Banana Republic is located in about 750 company-operated and franchise retail locations worldwide.

Contact:
press@gap.com

Source: GAP Inc.

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NGA promotes Laura Strange to Vice President of Industry Relations, Communications, and Marketing

Arlington, VA, 2017-Jul-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — The National Grocers Association (NGA), the national trade association representing the independent supermarket industry, announced today (Jul 24, 2017) that Laura Strange has been promoted to Vice President of Industry Relations, Communications, and Marketing.

Previously Strange served as Senior Director of Industry Relations, Communications, and Marketing. Strange joined NGA in the fall of 2013, coming from Capitol Hill where she served as communications director for Representative Bob Latta (OH-5), a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee. Prior to working on Capitol Hill, she held positions in the government affairs department for Yahoo! Inc. and in the communications and marketing division for a state taxpayer trade association. Strange earned a Master’s degree in Public Relations from George Washington University and her undergraduate degree in Communications from the University of South Carolina.

Strange will continue in her role overseeing NGA’s communications, media relations, and marketing departments. She will also be responsible for developing and implementing NGA’s strategy on a broad range of important industry relations initiatives.

“Laura has been a key member of the NGA team since she joined our organization over three and half years ago. She has built our communications department into a well-oiled, sophisticated operation that is proactive and works every day to advance the good work of NGA and to tell the great story of our independent supermarket members,” said NGA president and CEO Peter J. Larkin. “Laura has also worked collaboratively to enhance NGA’s marketing efforts, helping to drive member and non-member engagement and produce results that benefit the organization. NGA is fortunate to have a talented team that comes to work each day committed to serving our members and the overall industry. Laura is a key part of our team and will continue to lead our efforts going forward.”

“Laura’s Capitol Hill background has been instrumental in helping to advance many of our public policy priorities through her relationships with reporters and her ability to tell our member’s story. She is a tireless advocate for NGA’s members and for the local, family-owned grocers who are truly the backbone of our organization. In addition, her willingness to accept new challenges and think outside of the box has helped NGA continue to grow each year and better serve its membership. In her new role, she will continue to be a great leader and advocate for our members and industry,” said Greg Ferrara, NGA senior vice president of government relations and public affairs.

Contact:

Tel: (703) 516-0700
Fax: (703) 516-0115

Source: NGA

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NGA presented Joe Williams with the Spirit of America Award at the Texas Retailers Forum

Arlington, VA, 2017-Jul-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — The National Grocers Association (NGA), the trade association representing the independent supermarket industry, proudly presented Joe Williams, former vice president for regulatory and member services of the Texas Retailers Association, with the NGA Spirit of America Award at the Texas Retailers Forum, held Sunday, July 23, 2017. The award is one of NGA’s top honors and recognizes individuals for their dedication and service to the independent supermarket industry.

“Joe is known as a steadfast advocate for Texas grocers with a long history of serving both the supermarket industry and consumers alike,” said Greg Ferrara, senior vice president of government relations and public affairs at NGA. “His legacy shines as a strong voice before regulators, one of the foremost advocates for the SNAP and WIC programs, and a mentor to the next generation of supermarket leaders.”

Williams served as the president of the Gulf Coast Retailers Association beginning in 1994 until it merged with the Texas Retailers Association in 2006. He now serves as a consultant at the association on issues impacting the supermarket industry and the Texas Retailers Education Fund.

The NGA Spirit of America Award, established in 1982, honors key industry and community figures that have provided leadership in the areas of community services and government relations on behalf of a free and independent food distribution system. NGA has given this award to over 550 individuals, including former Presidents George H. W. Bush and Gerald Ford, former Vice President Dan Quayle, former Speaker of the House Tom Foley, former U.S. Representatives Charlie Stenholm and Dick Armey, as well as other distinguished individuals serving in the grocery industry and the public interest.

Contact:

Tel: (703) 516-0700
Fax: (703) 516-0115

Source: NGA

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KappAhl CFO Anders Düring to leave the Group

Mölndal, Sweden, 2017-Jul-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — Anders Düring will leave his position as CFO and member of the KappAhl Group Management in favor of a position outside of KappAhl. The company has initiated a recruitment process to find his successor.

Anders Düring remains as CFO during his term of notice.

“I regret that Anders chooses to leave KappAhl but understand and respect his decision. Anders has had a constructive and important role in the change process that has taken place over the past years,” says Danny Feltmann, President and CEO of KappAhl.

This information is information that KappAhl AB is obliged to make public pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation. The information was submitted for publication, through the agency of President and CEO Danny Feltmann, at 08.45 pm CET on 24 July 2017.

KappAhl, founded in 1953 in Gothenburg, is one of the leading Nordic fashion chains with nearly 370 stores in Sweden, Norway, Finland and Poland as well as Shop Online. Our mission is to offer value-for-money fashion of our own design with wide appeal. More than half of the range is sustainability labelled. In 2015/2016 sales were SEK 4.7 billion and the number of employees was about 4,000 in nine countries. KappAhl has been listed on Nasdaq Stockholm since 2006. More information is available at www.kappahl.com

For further information:
Danny Feltmann
President & CEO
Tel 46 31 771 5661.

Source: KappAhl

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Whole Foods Market to host four-day sale on WTRMLN WTR beverages from National Watermelon Day, August 3

Whole Foods Market to host four-day sale on WTRMLN WTR beverages from National Watermelon Day, August 3

 

AUSTIN, Texas, 2017-Jul-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — On National Watermelon Day, August 3, Whole Foods Market is kicking off a four-day sale on WTRMLN WTR beverages. From August 3 through 6, customers can pick up two bottles of any flavor for $5, and select stores nationwide will be hosting sampling events.

WTRMLN WTR is a hydrating juiced watermelon drink that is packed with naturally occuring electrolytes and vitamins. It is made with fresh watermelons that are consciously grown, non-GMO, hand-skinned and cold-pressed. The brand also has a WTRMLN WTR BLNDS line that features other refreshing, functional ingredients, including GNGR, CHRRY and LME flavors.

All WTRMLN WTR beverages are made with juice from “waste watermelons” that would otherwise be discarded because of blemishes or cosmetic defects that do not affect taste. By finding a home for these discarded melons, American farmers are able to turn a typical loss into a new revenue source.

Earlier this year, Whole Planet Foundation also partnered with WTRMLN WTR to alleviate poverty through microcredit in communities around the world that supply Whole Foods Market stores with products.

Contact:

SOmedia@wholefoods.com

Source:  Whole Foods Market

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JCPenney creates an easy and seamless customer shopping experience with the roll out of Apple Pay at stores nationwide

JCPenney creates an easy and seamless customer shopping experience with the roll out of Apple Pay at stores nationwide

 

JCPenney Credit Card and JCPenney Rewards Loyalty Program Among First to Seamlessly Integrate with Apple Pay

PLANO, Texas, 2017-Jul-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — As part of its focus on creating an easy and seamless customer shopping experience, JCPenney (NYSE:JCP) has rolled out Apple Pay, which is transforming mobile payments with an easy, secure and private way to pay, to all stores nationwide. The Company will also make its credit card available on Apple Pay, which allows credit card users to earn shopping points through JCPenney Rewards, the retailer’s customer loyalty program.

“With Apple Pay at JCPenney, we’re able to offer a faster, more seamless check out process by allowing our customers to pay for their purchases by simply holding their iPhone or Apple Watch near a point-of-sale terminal, rather than inserting a chip card,” said Therace Risch, chief information officer for JCPenney. “And with the added convenience of our credit card as a payment option via Apple Pay, we’re giving customers another compelling reason to join our credit card and loyalty programs.”

In store, Apple Pay works with iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus, iPhone 6s, iPhone 6s Plus, iPhone 6, iPhone 6 Plus, iPhone SE and Apple Watch. JCPenney point-of-sale registers now process all Apple Pay supported credit and debit bank cards, including the Company’s credit card and co-branded Mastercard, both issued by Synchrony Bank and available to use with Apple Pay. Customers simply add their JCPenney credit card as a payment option to Apple Pay using the Wallet or Apple Watch app on their iPhone. Plus, coming soon, customers with the JCPenney app on iPhone and iPad will have the option to complete their purchases using Apple Pay.

“We’re always looking for new ways to leverage innovative technology solutions to deliver convenient and secure mobile payments for our retail partners,” said Carol Juel, executive vice president and chief information officer, Synchrony Financial. “With the JCPenney credit card and the JCPenney Mastercard now ready to use with Apple Pay, the customer experience is taken to a whole new level.”

“Through our Mastercard Digital Enablement Service, we remain committed to helping merchants like JCPenney capitalize on mobile payments, ensuring the best experience for their customers and driving loyalty,” said Linda Kirkpatrick, executive vice president, U.S. Market Development, Mastercard.  “By enabling private label card offerings to be supported in a digital environment, we’re providing the choice consumers want while delivering the customer engagement retailers demand.”

When customers add a payment card to Apple Pay, the actual card numbers are neither stored on the device, nor on Apple servers. Instead, a unique device account number is assigned, encrypted and securely stored in the secure element on the Apple device. Each transaction is authorized with a one-time unique dynamic security code.

For more information on Apple Pay, visit: http://www.apple.com/apple-pay/

About JCPenney:
J. C. Penney Company, Inc. (NYSE:JCP), one of the nation’s largest apparel and home furnishings retailers, is on a mission to ensure every customer’s shopping experience is worth her time, money and effort. Whether shopping jcp.com or visiting one of over 1,000 store locations across the United States and Puerto Rico, she will discover a broad assortment of products from a leading portfolio of private, exclusive and national brands. Supporting this value proposition is the warrior spirit of over 100,000 JCPenney associates worldwide, who are focused on the Company’s three strategic priorities of strengthening private brands, becoming a world-class omnichannel retailer and increasing revenue per customer. For additional information, please visit jcp.com.

Media Relations:
(972) 431-3400
jcpnews@jcp.com
Follow @jcpnews on Twitter for the latest announcements and Company information.

Investor Relations:
(972) 431-5500
jcpinvestorrelations@jcpenney.com

Source:  J. C. Penney Company, Inc.

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Jeffrey Davis joins JCPenney as executive vice president and chief financial officer

PLANO, Texas, 2017-Jul-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — J. C. Penney Company, Inc. (NYSE: JCP) today (July 24, 2017) announced that Jeffrey Davis is joining the Company as executive vice president and chief financial officer, effective today. He will succeed Andrew Drexler, who has been serving as interim chief financial officer while the Company completed its search. Davis will report to Marvin R. Ellison, chairman and chief executive officer of JCPenney.

“On behalf of the board of directors and executive leadership, I’m pleased to welcome Jeff to JCPenney. He brings decades of finance, treasury and strategy experience from a host of leading companies, and will make an outstanding addition to our team,” said Ellison. “Jeff’s expertise will also be a tremendous asset to JCPenney as we continue to differentiate our business in a competitive retail climate and further strengthen our balance sheet moving forward.”

In his role, Davis will be responsible for all financial operations of the Company, including the oversight of finance teams at the JCPenney home office and shared services center in Salt Lake City. Among his primary objectives will be to continue the Company’s progress in identifying earnings growth opportunities, optimizing pricing, exercising SG&A discipline, managing inventory levels and deleveraging debt.

“JCPenney is a mainstay in American retailing, and I’m proud to have the opportunity to sustain its rich legacy alongside a group of dedicated associates committed to differentiating the Company from its traditional competitors,” said Davis. “I look forward to working with our teams in Plano and Salt Lake to continue strengthening the financial position of JCPenney, further propelling the Company’s momentum.”

Davis most recently served as chief financial officer at Darden Restaurants, overseeing finance and accounting, corporate reporting, tax, internal audit, treasury and investor relations. He also maintained oversight of Darden’s real estate acquisitions, as well as the company’s restaurant development.

Prior to Darden, Davis served as executive vice president and chief financial officer for Walmart U.S. stores. Upon joining Walmart in 2006, he served as vice president of finance for its U.S. specialty division before assuming positions of increasing responsibility, including senior vice president of finance and strategy, followed by a promotion to senior vice president and treasurer. Before Walmart, Davis held multiple finance-related positions with Lakeland Tours, McKesson Corporation and The Hillman Company.

About JCPenney:
J. C. Penney Company, Inc. (NYSE:JCP), one of the nation’s largest apparel and home furnishings retailers, is on a mission to ensure every customer’s shopping experience is worth her time, money and effort. Whether shopping jcp.com or visiting one of over 1,000 store locations across the United States and Puerto Rico, she will discover a broad assortment of products from a leading portfolio of private, exclusive and national brands.  Supporting this value proposition is the warrior spirit of over 100,000 JCPenney associates worldwide, who are focused on the Company’s three strategic priorities of strengthening private brands, becoming a world-class omnichannel retailer and increasing revenue per customer. For additional information, please visit jcp.com.

Forward-Looking Statements
This release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.  Words such as “expect” and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements, which include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the Company’s financial position, the revolving credit facility and interest expense.  Forward-looking statements are based only on the Company’s current assumptions and views of future events and financial performance. They are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are outside of the Company’s control that may cause the Company’s actual results to be materially different from planned or expected results. Those risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, general economic conditions, including inflation, recession, unemployment levels, consumer confidence and spending patterns, credit availability and debt levels, changes in store traffic trends, the cost of goods, more stringent or costly payment terms and/or the decision by a significant number of vendors not to sell us merchandise on a timely basis or at all, trade restrictions, the ability to monetize non-core assets on acceptable terms, the ability to implement our strategic plan including our omnichannel initiatives, customer acceptance of our strategies, our ability to attract, motivate and retain key executives and other associates, the impact of cost reduction initiatives, our ability to generate or maintain liquidity, implementation of new systems and platforms, changes in tariff, freight and shipping rates, changes in the cost of fuel and other energy and transportation costs, disruptions and congestion at ports through which we import goods, increases in wage and benefit costs, competition and retail industry consolidations, interest rate fluctuations, dollar and other currency valuations, the impact of weather conditions, risks associated with war, an act of terrorism or pandemic, the ability of the federal government to fund and conduct its operations, a systems failure and/or security breach that results in the theft, transfer or unauthorized disclosure of customer, employee or Company information, legal and regulatory proceedings and the Company’s ability to access the debt or equity markets on favorable terms or at all.  There can be no assurances that the Company will achieve expected results, and actual results may be materially less than expectations.  Please refer to the Company’s most recent Form 10-Q for a further discussion of risks and uncertainties. Investors should take such risks into account and should not rely on forward-looking statements when making investment decisions. Any forward-looking statement made by us in this press release is based only on information currently available to us and speaks only as of the date on which it is made.  We do not undertake to update these forward-looking statements as of any future date.

Media Relations:
(972) 431-3400
jcpnews@jcp.com
Follow @jcpnews on Twitter for the latest announcements and Company information.

Investor Relations:
(972) 431-5500
jcpinvestorrelations@jcpenney.com

Source:  J. C. Penney Company, Inc.

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New Jersey Department of Agriculture Secretary Douglas H. Fisher visits ShopRite as part of his Jersey Fresh tour

New Jersey Department of Agriculture Secretary Douglas H. Fisher visits ShopRite as part of his Jersey Fresh tour

 

TRENTON, 2017-Jul-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — New Jersey Department of Agriculture Secretary Douglas H. Fisher on Friday completed Part One of his Jersey Fresh tour to highlight the many varieties of produce now available at the peak of growing season. Secretary Fisher visited the ShopRite of Greater Morristown in Morris County on Thursday and then visited Larchmont Farms in Salem County on Friday.

“We are at the height of Jersey Fresh season and our farmers are providing outstanding product to consumers,” Secretary Fisher said. “The partnerships with ShopRite and other supermarkets help us deliver outstanding quality fruits and vegetables throughout the state.

Like all of the 140 ShopRite stores in New Jersey, the ShopRite of Greater Morristown features a wide range of Jersey Fresh fruits and vegetables. They include blueberries, peppers, sweet corn, cucumbers, spinach, lettuce, peaches and others. Many of those items come from Tranquillity Farms in Sussex County, which supplies more than 20 supermarkets with its more than 800 acres of produce.

“We are really proud of our partnership with the Jersey Fresh growers who provide our stores with delicious fresh fruits and vegetables. Our family owned and operated ShopRite stores have a long tradition of working with local family farms and food producers, and our partnership with Jersey Fresh is a natural extension of this commitment,” said Nicholas Sumas, a third-generation grocer and Chief Marketing Officer of Village Super Market, Inc., which owns the ShopRite of Greater Morristown. “Customers have become increasingly interested in sourcing their food locally and supporting neighborhood businesses, so we’re expanding our Locally Grown program by working hand-in-hand with family farms to provide even more locally grown and sourced foods.”

Fisher also visited the ShopRite of Parsipanny Thursday, above, to sample produce and talk with staff at the store.

Plenty of fresh peaches are available and one of the places to find them is Larchmont Farms in Upper Pittsgrove. Larchmont Farms is a twelfth-generation farm owned by Tom Dunn and Charles and Keith Haines. It is located on more than 900 acres and has a reputation for delivering high quality peaches and other fruits.

“We are having a wonderful year with peaches,” said Keith Haines. “We have a very good supply and they are also tasting great. The weather has been just right for us and that’s always a key element in growing any crop.”

Larchmont Farms is also environmentally friendly, with the entire farm running on solar power and all of its fruit is packed into boxes that were made from 100 percent recycled paper.

“Larchmont Farms is a great example of why it’s important to support our local farmers. They take pride in what they do in order to grow the best quality produce,” noted Fisher.

New Jersey is one of the nation’s top growers of peaches, ranking sixth in the U.S. in production value in 2016 at $28.4 million. The 2017 New Jersey peach crop is projected to produce between 55 and 60 million pounds of peaches on 5,500 acres, according to the New Jersey Peach Promotion Council.

The peach season is well underway throughout the state. The first peach variety of New Jersey’s season is Sentry, followed by the Gala, Flavorcrest, Loring and Red Haven varieties. Next is the John Boy season followed by the Crest Haven, Gloria, Jersey Queen and Fayette varieties. The Encore and Laurol varieties wrap up the state’s peach season in mid- to late-September. White peaches are expected to begin shipping around the end of July and continue through mid-September.

Look for Jersey Fresh peaches in your local supermarkets, farmers markets and roadside stands. You can find what is available and where to buy Jersey Fresh items at www.jerseyfresh.nj.gov.

To learn more about the New Jersey Department of Agriculture, find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/NJDeptofAgriculture and www.facebook.com/JerseyFreshOfficial or Twitter @NJDA1 and @JerseyFreshNJDA.

Source: ShopRite

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Perry Ellis International adds boy’s flip flops and slippers into its Perry Ellis men’s and boy’s casual footwear line

MIAMI, 2017-Jul-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — Perry Ellis International (Nasdaq:PERY) announced today (July 24, 2017) it is rounding out its license agreement with ACI International by further extending the men’s and boy’s casual footwear line into boy’s flip flops and slippers under the Perry Ellis® trademark in the U.S. and Canada. The license complements the Company’s interest in showcasing its diverse portfolio of brands to customers of all ages in new and exciting ways.

The Perry Ellis collection will be distributed in department stores and family footwear chains with a product launch in Spring 2018.

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

“We are pleased to expand our collaboration with ACI International.  We currently have a license agreement with them for Perry Ellis men’s and boy’s dress, casual and sport footwear categories.  This new license rounds out the total footwear business,” commented George Feldenkreis, Executive Chairman of Perry Ellis International.

“We have worked closely with the team at Perry Ellis over these past 10 years to build together a very successful dress and casual footwear business for men and boys.  We are excited to now have the opportunity to work on other important categories with flip flops and slippers,” said Steve Jackson, CEO of ACI International.

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

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

About ACI International
Headquartered in Los Angeles, ACI International has been a leading manufacturer, distributer and marketer of men’s women’s and children’s footwear brands for over 40 years.  Focused on building footwear brands for long-term growth and stability, ACI International successfully designs and markets athletic as well as casual/fashion brands throughout all channels of retail distribution.  Visit www.acifootwear.com for more information.

Contact:

Maria Folyk-Kushneir
maria.folyk-kushneir@pery.com
212-536-5718

Steven Jackson
sjackson@aciint.com
1-800-421-0720

Source:  Perry Ellis International, Inc. /globenewswire

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Price Chopper/Market 32 May Round Up Your Change campaign raised $58,644.21 for the American Cancer Society

Schenectady, NY, 2017-Jul-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — During the month of May, Price Chopper/Market 32 led another successful Round Up Your Change campaign for the American Cancer Society (ACS) and raised $58,644.21. By rounding up total purchases to the next dollar at checkout, customers and teammates were able to increase donations from last year’s campaign by nearly 45%. A $5,000 corporate donation from The Golub Corporation increased the grand total to $63,644.21.

“The Round Up Your Change campaign emphasizes the importance of every donation,” said Mona Golub, vice president of public relations and consumer services. “These many donations of less than a dollar make a change in the lives of those affected by cancer.”

ACS focuses is on conducting research, sharing expert information, supporting patients, and spreading the word about prevention. The organization raises nearly all of its money through individual donations and is deeply committed to reporting to the millions of people who support the cause each year. The donations given to the American Cancer Society are spent on funding program services and supporting services. For more information, visit www.cancer.org.

About The Golub Corporation:

Based in Schenectady, NY, the Golub Corporation owns and operates 136 Price Chopper and Market 32 grocery stores in New York, Vermont, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts and New Hampshire. The American owned, family-managed company prides itself on longstanding traditions of innovative food merchandising, leadership in community service, and cooperative employee relations. Golub’s 20,000 teammates collectively own more than 44% of the company’s privately held stock, making it one of the nation’s largest privately held corporations that is predominantly employee-owned. For additional information, visit www.pricechopper.com

Contact:
Mona Golub
Price Chopper
518-379-1480

Jonathan Pierce, APR
Pierce Communications
518-221-1186

Source: Price Chopper