Daily Archives: October 6, 2017

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Avon and the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade mark 25 year legacy of raising breast cancer awareness

Avon Introduces Fundraising and Awareness Campaigns in time for Breast Cancer Awareness Month

New York, NY, 2017-Oct-06 — /EPR Retail News/ — New Avon LLC (“Avon”), the leading social selling company in North America, announced its efforts to build on its 25 year legacy of raising breast cancer awareness. With the help of its woman to woman network of Avon Representatives, Avon and the Avon Foundation for Women have contributed more than $800 million globally to breast cancer causes, educated 180 million about breast health, and funded more than 145 million people about breast health.

“Avon has a long-standing commitment to women and we are proud of our Avon Breast Cancer Promise to ensure every woman, every day is breast health aware,” said Scott White, Chief Executive Officer, New Avon LLC. “Connections and conversations between women are at the heart of Avon. Over the last 25 years, our Representatives have united as a force for good in raising awareness and funds for breast cancer. Each pink ribbon product sold, each brochure distributed, and every conversation can be a valuable trigger for women to take action for their own wellbeing.”

“There is still much work to be done in raising awareness of breast cancer, particularly its signs, risks and how to act on concerns about it,” said Dr. Paul Goss, Chairman of the Avon Foundation Scientific Advisory Board and Director of Breast Cancer Research at Massachusetts General Hospital. “Awareness is essential, since it increases the likelihood that breast cancer is detected at an early stage. Early detection is the most effective way of saving lives, it is crucial to tackling breast cancer.”

Avon and the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade work year round to make an impact in the fight against breast cancer. Among the initiatives launching in October for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, include:

“Shop for the Greater Goods,” an exclusive boutique featuring limited-edition Pink Hope fundraising products. Available through Avon Representatives, the collection offers unique products, including an official signature lipstick shade, Pure Pink, within the top-selling Avon True Color Perfectly Matte Lipstick line. Avon will donate 20% of net profits from these products – up to $1 million in 2017 – to the Avon Foundation for Women to support Avon Breast Cancer Crusade programs across the country.

Thousands of walkers, including many Avon Representatives and employees, will take part in the AVON 39 The Walk To End Breast Cancer as they walk 39 miles to raise awareness and funds in New York City on October 14 and 15. This is the seventh and final walk of the 2017 season which has raised more than $600 million dollars since its inception in 2003.

Launch of the new Avon Breast Cancer Crusade website which features the 8 Simple Steps to Check Yourself. The site also highlights the efforts the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade is making to improve breast cancer outcomes and reduce disparities in survival rates.

Funds raised from all Avon Breast Cancer initiatives go towards programs such as the Avon Access to Care Program, which has awarded more than 790 grants to 200 hospitals across the country through the end of 2016, totaling more than $235 million. Funding also supports seven Avon Comprehensive Breast Care Centers of Excellence, all located at major academic medical centers. Avon grants enable these Centers to develop new programs to reach and treat the underserved populations in the respective communities, providing them direct access to the cutting-edge advancements in treatment and care that are being developed at these same institutions.

To learn more about Avon, to purchase a product from the Shop for the Greater Goods, or to locate an Avon Representative, visit avon.com.

About New Avon LLC

New Avon LLC (“Avon”) is the leading social selling beauty company in North America, with independent sales Representatives throughout the United States, Puerto Rico and Canada. Avon’s product portfolio includes award-winning skincare, color cosmetics, fragrance and personal care products, featuring iconic brands such as ANEW, Avon Color, mark.by Avon, and Skin So Soft, as well as fashion and accessories. Avon has a 130 year history of empowering women through economic opportunity, and supporting the causes that matter most to women. Together, Avon and the Avon Foundation for Women have contributed over $1 billion globally toward eradicating breast cancer and domestic violence. Learn more about Avon and its products at www.avon.com.

About the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade

Since 1992, the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade has been working to improve breast cancer outcomes and reduce disparities in survival rates. The Crusade’s strategic grant making reflects: a holistic and place-based approach in high-need areas throughout the United States; a commitment to enabling access to medical advances and support services for breast cancer patients, particularly those from vulnerable populations; and a commitment to investing in research on the prevention, diagnostics, and treatment of breast cancer. In the U.S., the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade manages the Avon Foundation for Women’s breast cancer programs. The Avon Foundation for Women partners with affiliate Avon Foundations and Avon markets around the world for additional programming. In total, Avon and the Foundation have contributed more than $800 million to breast cancer programs around the world through 2015. To learn more, visit www.avonbcc.org.

Media Contacts:

For Corporate Communications:

Liz Micci
Glover Park Group
+1 (646) 495-2700
emicci@gpg.com

For Beauty & Representative PR:

Lisa DaCosta-Nunez
Public Relations
+1 (212) 282-6078
lisa.dacosta-nunez@avon.com

Source: Avon

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Stockmann’s plastic bag campaign raised EUR 20,000 for WWF’s activities to protect the Baltic Sea

Stockmann’s plastic bag campaign raised EUR 20,000 for WWF’s activities to protect the Baltic Sea

 

Helsinki, Finland, 2017-Oct-06 — /EPR Retail News/ — Stockmann’s plastic bag campaign during September was a success. In September, only about one in three department store customers decided to buy a single-use carrier bag, whereas before the majority of purchases were packed into new carrier bags. This change, which will benefit the environment, came about because Stockmann started charging its customers for carrier bags in all its departments as of 1 September 2017. Stockmann’s campaign that encouraged customers not to buy a carrier bag also contributed to the change.

During the campaign, Stockmann donated 5 cents towards the WWF’s activities to protect the Baltic Sea for each carrier bag that was not bought during September. During the month a total of 311 765 donations were registered. In some purchases, the donation was not registered, and because of this the amount donated was rounded up to ensure that donations were made for all carrier bags that were not purchased. The final amount that Stockmann will donate to the WWF’s activities to protect the Baltic Sea is EUR 20,000.

Paper bags have clearly increased in popularity since the beginning of September and part of the reason for this is that the smallest bag available in Stockmann’s new selection is a paper bag. The small bags made from thin plastic, of which over a million were handed out in the department stores each year, were removed from the selection and this has clearly reduced the consumption of plastic bags. Stockmann’s paper bags are made from FSC-certified wood.

The share of reusable carrier bags is still small, but consumption of these has grown since new and attractive options were introduced to the selection. For instance, the reusable bag made from renewable sugar cane that was launched in Stockmann Delicatessen in the spring has now established its place in the selection, and during the campaign, Globe Hope’s reusable Martti bag, which is sold in the store’s other departments, grew in popularity by 35% compared with the previous month.

We’d like to thank all our customers for participating in the campaign and in the discussions related to the subject.

Further information: 
Johanna Stenbäc
CSR Manager
tel. +358 46 876 1529

Source: Stockmann

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Levi Strauss to host Q3 2017 financial results conference call on Tuesday, October 10

SAN FRANCISCO, 2017-Oct-06 — /EPR Retail News/ — Levi Strauss & Co. (LS&Co.) will host a conference call to discuss the company’s financial results for the third quarter ended August 27, 2017. The call will be held on Tuesday, October 10, at 1:00 p.m. Pacific Time / 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time, and will be hosted by Chip Bergh, president and chief executive officer, and Harmit Singh, executive vice president and chief financial officer.

To access the live webcast, please visit https://engage.vevent.com/rt/levistraussao~66713492 or dial in to listen to the live call at: +1 800-891-4735 in the United States and Canada or +1 973-200-3066 internationally; I.D. No. 66713492.

A replay of the webcast will be available on http://www.levistrauss.com/investors/earnings-webcast approximately two hours after the event and archived on the site for one month. A telephone replay will be available until October 16, 2017, at +1 855-859-2056 in the United States and Canada or +1 404-537-3406 internationally; I.D. No. 66713492.

To access the company’s related press release on October 10, 2017, please visit:
http://www.levistrauss.com/news/press-releases.

About Levi Strauss & Co.
Levi Strauss & Co. is one of the world’s largest brand-name apparel companies and a global leader in jeanswear. The company designs and markets jeans, casual wear and related accessories for men, women and children under the Levi’s®, Dockers®, Signature by Levi Strauss & Co.™, and Denizen® brands. Its products are sold in more than 110 countries worldwide through a combination of chain retailers, department stores, online sites, and a global footprint of approximately 2,900 retail stores and shop-in-shops. Levi Strauss & Co.’s reported fiscal 2016 net revenues were $4.6 billion. For more information, go to http://levistrauss.com.

Investor Contact:
Edelita Tichepco
Levi Strauss & Co.
(800) 438-0349
Investor-relations@levi.com

Media Contact:
Amber McCasland
Levi Strauss & Co.
(415) 501-7777
newsmediarequests@levi.com

Source: Levi Strauss & Co.

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Barnes & Noble to host LEGO® build experience on Saturday, October 7 to celebrate The LEGO NINJAGO Movie

Fans Ages 5 and Up to Build Their Own LEGO NINJAGO Green Dragon, Inspired by the Feature Film

New York, NY, 2017-Oct-06 — /EPR Retail News/ — Barnes & Noble, Inc. (NYSE: BKS), the world’s largest bookseller, today (October 3, 2017) announced a LEGO® build experience on Saturday, October 7, in celebration of the recently released The LEGO NINJAGO Movie. Starting at 4 p.m. in stores nationwide, children ages 5 and up can build their own LEGO NINJAGO Green Dragon Mini Model to take home with them, while supplies last. Customers should visit the Barnes & Noble Store Locator or contact their local store for more details.

On October 7, young LEGO fans are invited to their local Barnes & Noble to build a LEGO NINJAGO Green Dragon Mini Model, inspired by the recently released animated feature film. In The LEGO NINJAGO Movie, the battle for NINJAGO City calls to action young Master Builder Lloyd, aka the Green Ninja, along with his friends, who are all secret ninja warriors. These secret ninja warriors, led by Master Wu, must defeat evil warlord Garmadon. Fans can build their own NINJAGO Green Dragon Mini Model to take home and play with to help protect NINJAGO City from Garmadon in stores nationwide, while supplies last. Fans who participate in the build event will receive a special Certificate of Achievement, while supplies last, to show off with their dragon.

“LEGO building experiences are some of our most popular in-store events,” said Kathleen Campisano, Vice President, Specialty, at Barnes & Noble. “We are excited to welcome so many young LEGO fans to our stores to build the NINJAGO Green Dragon Mini Model for free to celebrate the new movie. NINJAGO has captivated children for years and we are thrilled to help bring the movie to life in our stores.”

In addition to participating in the build event, customers are encouraged to check out Barnes & Noble’s robust offering of related merchandise from Warner Bros. Consumer Products’ global licensing and merchandising program, including a selection of toys. Featured toys include the Spinjitzu Training Dojo, NINJAGO City Chase, Water Strider and Temple of the Ultimate Ultimate Weapon. Customers should contact their local store for more details on what products will be available for purchase.

Customers are also encouraged to post pictures of themselves having fun at the event to their social media channels using the hashtag, #LEGONinjagoAtBN.

About Barnes & Noble

Barnes & Noble, Inc. (NYSE: BKS) is the world’s largest bookseller, and a leading retailer of content, digital media and educational products.  The Company operates 632 Barnes & Noble bookstores in 50 states, and one of the Web’s premier e-commerce sites, BN.com (www.bn.com).  The Nook Digital business offers a lineup of popular NOOK® tablets and eReaders and an expansive collection of digital reading and entertainment content through the NOOK Store®. The NOOK Store features more than 4.5 million digital books in the US (www.nook.com), plus periodicals and comics, and offers the ability to enjoy content across a wide array of popular devices through Free NOOK Reading Apps™ available for Android™, iOS® and Windows®.

General information on Barnes & Noble, Inc. can be obtained by visiting the Company’s corporate website at www.barnesandnobleinc.com.

Barnes & Noble®, Barnes & Noble Booksellers® and Barnes & Noble.com® are trademarks of Barnes & Noble, Inc. or its affiliates. NOOK® and the NOOK logos are trademarks of Nook Digital, LLC or its affiliates.

For more information on Barnes & Noble, follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Snapchat (bnsnaps), and like us on Facebook. For more information on NOOK, follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

All Contacts:

Mary Ellen Keating
Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications
Barnes & Noble, Inc.
(212) 633-3323
mkeating@bn.com

Alan McNamara
Senior Director, Corporate Communications
Barnes & Noble, Inc.
(212) 633-3379
amcnamara@bn.com

Source: Barnes & Noble, Inc.

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Klarna UK Consumer Survey: Retailers must develop emotional intelligence to win over new generation of online shoppers

Millennial generation three times more likely to feel excitement while adding items to their online basket, compared to older shoppers

Negative emotions also play a role in decision-making – with millennials more than five times as likely as over 55s to feel guilt at the point of payment

LONDON, 2017-Oct-06 — /EPR Retail News/ — Retailers must develop emotional intelligence (EQ) and alter their customer journey accordingly to nudge shoppers to a better online experience

A consumer research study recently put out by Klarna UK also shows that 16 – 34-year olds are more likely than older generations to be influenced by emotional factors when shopping online.

The millennial emotional rollercoaster of the millennial customer journey

For the millennial generation – the largest group of online shoppers – the traditional linear customer journey is more akin to a rollercoaster, marked by highs and lows of emotion. According to Klarna UK’s consumer research, millennials experience higher levels of anxiety, impulsiveness and impatience than their older counterparts. Klarna UK’s consumer research shows two thirds (68 percent) of millennials reported feeling excitement when adding items to their online basket, compared to less than a quarter (24 percent) of people over 55.

The flip side of this excitement is lows caused by anxiety and guilt, with 52 percent of millennials saying that they worry that they can’t afford the purchase during checkout, compared to only 16 percent of over 55s. One in five millennials have abandoned a purchase because of worry about regretting it later.

Increasing merchant EQ

The extremes of emotion experienced by millennials must be navigated carefully so retailers can effectively guide this group through the purchase process.

Allowing shoppers to try before they buy is an easy way to build brand loyalty – findings from Klarna UK’s consumer research shows that 20 percent of millennials would feel less guilty if they were offered deferred payment options, and one in five would be more likely to complete a purchase if they knew they could spread the cost over time. It’s vital that merchants offer these choices at the checkout – so millennials can be reassured a transaction is achievable.

The buzz of the basket

The consumer research debunks the myth that items added to a basket show a clear intention to purchase. In fact a significant 89 percent of millennials use the basket as a tool to review costs, while more than three quarters often use their basket as a wish list, compared with only 29 percent of over 55s. Meanwhile, nearly three quarters (74 percent) admit to indulging in ‘buzz browsing’ – adding items to a basket with no clear intention to buy.

Crucially, 58 percent of millennials are more likely to complete a purchase if an online offer is going to expire, so tapping into this fear of missing out by offering time bound incentives and educating shoppers about pay after delivery or consumer finance options can encourage customers to complete their purchase. Simple website features such as showing stock levels and displaying expert advice from social influencers can all help retailers nudge this important group of consumers to checkout.

Luke Griffiths, UK General Manager, Klarna, said: “Our insight proves that the online customer journey is more complex than ever, with shoppers being driven by emotional factors. Retailers must develop EQ to deliver a positive online customer experience that smooths the highs and lows.

“Payment is still a sticking point for many consumers – with one in four feeling frustrated when the checkout doesn’t remember their details and one in four millennials saying that they are more likely to complete a purchase if one-click payments are in place. Competition in the marketplace is fierce, winners will be retailers that build shopper affinity by offering a fast, easy checkout with flexible payment options.”

And new analysis by the University of Reading, commissioned by KLARNA UK, offers advice for retailers on how to engage hearts as well as minds to reach today’s online shopper, while offering academic insight into future commerce trends.

Dr. Julia Vogt, assistant professor in Psychology at the University of Reading, commented: “Applying behavioural psychology can help us understand what consumers love and hate about online shopping. Emotional factors can cause hesitation in the process which can derail a purchase right up until the final payment. By understanding the role of heart as well as the head, retailers can create effective customer engagement strategies to nudge consumers to conversion.”

Visit www.klarna.com/uk/emotion to find more data and insight, including:

  • Analysis and advisory report for merchants – Emotional eCommerce – from Klarna UK and Reading University
  • Infographics on the generational and gender differences of online shoppers
  • Infographic on millennial emotions at each stage of the online buying journey
  • Animation summarising millennial shopping behaviour and advice for merchants

 

About Klarna

Klarna is Europe’s leading payments provider, that aims to make the payment process simple, smooth and safe for customers and merchants. The company, founded in 2005, was recently named as one of the top disrupter companies in the world by CNBC. Klarna works together with 70,000 merchants to offer payment solutions to more than 60 million users in Europe and North America. Klarna has 1,500 employees and is active in 18 countries.

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RBR Global ATM Market and Forecasts to 2022: Diebold Nixdorf named the largest manufacturer in the global ATM market

Company is the only manufacturer to have more than 1 million terminals worldwide

NORTH CANTON, Ohio, 2017-Oct-06 — /EPR Retail News/ — Diebold Nixdorf (NYSE: DBD), a world leader in driving connected commerce, has been named the largest manufacturer in the global automated teller machine (ATM) market, according to RBR’s “Global ATM Market and Forecasts to 2022.”  With a 32 percent share of the global market, Diebold Nixdorf is the only manufacturer to have more than 1 million of its ATMs installed worldwide, according to the research.

RBR is a strategic research and consulting firm widely recognized as the leading provider of strategic research and consulting services in the areas of banking and retail automation, cards and payments. “Global ATM Market and Forecasts to 2022” is a comprehensive analysis of the development and future of the global ATM and cash dispenser market and covers 180 countries in the Americas, Asia-Pacific, Central and Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa and Western Europe.

This ranking comes on the heels of RBR’s recent finding of Diebold Nixdorf as the global leader in ATM application software with nearly 30 percent market share, via the combined installations of its previously independent companies through 2015.

“Our ranking as the largest global ATM manufacturer by RBR is a great example of our company’s scale and proximity to customers – proving that we are wherever they are,” said Andy W. Mattes, president and chief executive officer, Diebold Nixdorf. “This position also gives us the largest foundation in the industry for selling software and services into our installed base, reinforcing us as the leader in services-led, software-enabled transactions driven by innovative hardware for consumers around the world. Our teams will continue developing connected commerce solutions that transform the industries we serve and improve our customers’ business.”

Globally, the number of ATMs grew by 3% to 3.3 million in 2016 and is expected to grow to more than 3.7 million by the end of 2022, according to the report. In addition, RBR’s forecast shows 2.2% annual growth in ATM shipments through the year 2022, with 80 percent of shipments expected to be replacements.

About Diebold Nixdorf 
Diebold Nixdorf, Incorporated (NYSE: DBD) is a world leader in enabling connected commerce for millions of consumers each day across the financial and retail industries. Its software-defined solutions bridge the physical and digital worlds of cash and consumer transactions conveniently, securely and efficiently. As an innovation partner for nearly all of the world’s top 100 financial institutions and a majority of the top 25 global retailers, Diebold Nixdorf delivers unparalleled services and technology that are essential to evolve in an ‘always on’ and changing consumer landscape.

Diebold Nixdorf has a presence in more than 130 countries with approximately 24,000 employees worldwide. The organization maintains corporate offices in North Canton, Ohio, USA and Paderborn, Germany. Visit www.DieboldNixdorf.com for more information.

Media Relations:
Renee Murphy
+1-330-490-5825
renee.murphy@dieboldnixdorf.com

Investor Relations:
Steve Virostek
+1-330-490-6319
steve.virostek@dieboldnixdorf.com

SOURCE: Diebold Nixdorf

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Diebold Nixdorf announces new addition and enhancements to its managed services portfolio

The new offerings better enable end-to-end lifecycle management for financial institutions and retailers

NORTH CANTON, Ohio, 2017-Oct-06 — /EPR Retail News/ — Managing automated teller machines (ATMs) or point-of-sale (POS) devices in-house can cost financial institutions and retailers 20 percent more than outsourcing to a managed services provider.1 Diebold Nixdorf (NYSE: DBD), a world leader in driving connected commerce, has expanded its managed services portfolio to include new mobility management services, as well as additional enhancements to its security and compliance and “as-a-service” offerings. With more than 150,000 self-service terminals supported around the globe, Diebold Nixdorf’s managed services expertise delivers improved operational efficiencies, reduced expenses and increased reliability of the entire connected commerce ecosystem for financial institutions and retailers.

A new addition to the company’s managed services portfolio, Diebold Nixdorf’s managed mobility services embrace the Internet of Things (IoT) to move beyond the POS device and self-service terminal to support all in-store or in-branch mobility devices, such as mobile self-scanners and peripherals, in a vendor agnostic manner. As retailers and financial institutions move toward a mobile-enabled consumer-centric experience, Diebold Nixdorf’s new managed mobility services use real-time business analytics to enable proactive decision-making and actionable insights that optimize business processes and enrich consumer experiences.

Additional enhancements to the company’s managed services portfolio include global, standardized offerings that provide:

  • ATM-as-a-Service: Building on the company’s existing self-service fleet management solutions, ATM-as-a-Service is a flexible, subscription-based package that includes the end-to-end management, maintenance and implementation of software-driven technology to support ATM availability and security. The ATM-as-a-service offering enables financial institutions to drive efficiencies and offer rich consumer experiences by minimizing demands on internal resources and using a trusted, global partner to ensure ATM availability and performance.
  • Data-Driven Insights: Financial institutions and retailers will benefit from an enhanced state-of-the-art web portal that connects all devices in a retailers’ or financial institutions’ network. This managed services delivery platform offers dashboards on health indexes, security updates, inventory management and more to improve operational efficiencies and increase security.
  • Security and Compliance Services: Diebold Nixdorf’s managed services portfolio has been expanded to address security threats increasingly occurring around the globe. The security and compliance offering provides multiple layers of protection for the self-service network by proactively managing fleet security and providing real-time access to security information to immediately resolve issues and prevent fraud attempts.

“These enhancements to Diebold Nixdorf’s managed services portfolio solidify our position as the industry’s leading provider of services-led, software-enabled solutions,” says Olaf Heyden, Diebold Nixdorf senior vice president, services. “Our global scale and expertise enables us to drive connected commerce and the future of consumer transactions through unparalleled services, best-in-class software and innovative technology.”

About Diebold Nixdorf
Diebold Nixdorf, Incorporated (NYSE: DBD) is a world leader in enabling connected commerce for millions of consumers each day across the financial and retail industries. Its software-defined solutions bridge the physical and digital worlds of cash and consumer transactions conveniently, securely and efficiently. As an innovation partner for nearly all of the world’s top 100 financial institutions and a majority of the top 25 global retailers, Diebold Nixdorf delivers unparalleled services and technology that are essential to evolve in an ‘always on’ and changing consumer landscape.

Diebold Nixdorf has a presence in more than 130 countries with approximately 24,000 employees worldwide. The organization is headquartered in North Canton, Ohio, USA and Paderborn, Germany. Shares are traded on the New York and Frankfurt Stock Exchanges under the symbol ‘DBD’. Visit www.DieboldNixdorf.com for more information.

1 Diebold Nixdorf proprietary calculations.

Media Relations:
Renee Murphy
+1-330-490-5825
renee.murphy@dieboldnixdorf.com

Investor Relations:
Steve Virostek
+1-330-490-6319
steve.virostek@dieboldnixdorf.com

SOURCE: Diebold Nixdorf

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Devon R. Watson appointed vice president, chief marketing officer of Diebold Nixdorf

Devon R. Watson appointed vice president, chief marketing officer of Diebold Nixdorf

 

NORTH CANTON, Ohio, 2017-Oct-06 — /EPR Retail News/ — Diebold Nixdorf (NYSE: DBD) today (Oct. 4, 2017) announced Devon R. Watson has been named vice president, chief marketing officer. In this newly created position Watson, an experienced strategy and business development leader, will lead the company’s global marketing operations and strategy, focusing on driving growth through industry thought leadership and effective customer-facing campaigns. Watson will report to Andy W. Mattes, president and chief executive officer.

“During the past five years with the company, Devon has become a very effective and passionate ambassador for Diebold Nixdorf and our efforts to bring to life our “connected commerce” message for our customers,” said Mattes.  “Given Devon’s experience in developing and growing businesses throughout his career — especially in software, which represents a big growth opportunity for our company — he is a perfect fit to take our marketing efforts to the next level.”

Watson joined Diebold, Incorporated in 2012 and has held a number of leadership roles in solution strategy and innovation. Most recently, he served as vice president, software strategy and operations. Prior to joining Diebold, Watson held go-to-market positions in software, cloud-based services and software-as-a-service (SaaS) companies.  Watson also co-founded a SaaS analytics start-up.

Watson is a native of Skaneateles, N.Y., and currently resides in North Canton, Ohio. He received a bachelor’s degree in management information systems from Clarkson University in Potsdam, N.Y.

About Diebold Nixdorf
Diebold Nixdorf, Incorporated is a world leader in enabling connected commerce for millions of consumers each day across the financial and retail industries. Its software-defined solutions bridge the physical and digital worlds of cash and consumer transactions conveniently, securely and efficiently. As an innovation partner for nearly all of the world’s top 100 financial institutions and a majority of the top 25 global retailers, Diebold Nixdorf delivers unparalleled services and technology that are essential to evolve in an ‘always on’ and changing consumer landscape.

Diebold Nixdorf has a presence in more than 130 countries with approximately 24,000 employees worldwide. The organization maintains corporate offices in North Canton, Ohio, USA and Paderborn, Germany. Shares are traded on the New York and Frankfurt Stock Exchanges under the symbol ‘DBD’. Visit www.DieboldNixdorf.com for more information.

Media Relations:
Mike Jacobsen
APR
+1-330-490-3796
michael.jacobsen@dieboldnixdorf.com

Investor Relations:
Steve Virostek
+1-330-490-6319
steve.virostek@dieboldnixdorf.com

SOURCE: Diebold Nixdorf

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Costa Coffee opens the doors of its first store in Vietnam located in Da Nang International Airport

  • Store located in Da Nang International Airport
  • Second new Costa Coffee market to open in partnership with Autogrill this year

London, 2017-Oct-06 — /EPR Retail News/ — Costa Coffee, the UK’s Favourite Coffee Shop Brand and the second largest coffee shop operator in the world, has opened the doors of its first store in Vietnam, in Da Nang International Airport. This is the second market opening with Costa Coffees newest global partner Autogrill.

South East Asia is an exciting market for Costa Coffee and this opening marks the start of an ambitious new store openings programme for the region. Last month Costa Coffee opened its first store in Jakarta in Soekarno–Hatta international airport, with a second store planned to open in Jakarta in the coming months.

The new opening has created a number of jobs in the market, with team training taking place in stores in the Philippines, creating an excellent opportunity to bring the brand to life and experience a working Costa Coffee store, with real customers and colleagues. This enabled the teams to pull on local knowledge for service style, develop inter-market relationships, and ensure that the true Costa experience has been brought to Vietnam for the launch.

The food and drink products available in Vietnam were created in line with those served in Jakarta, incorporating core Costa Coffee products as well as blended iced drinks and indulgent Frostinos, such as the Double Chocolate Cookie Mocha. The food range includes Costa classics such as salads, toasties and sandwiches, along side a mix of European and South East Asian decadent cakes, desserts and healthy treats.

Matt Kenley, Head of Costa Coffee South East Asia, said: “We are delighted to extend our global presence with our opening in Vietnam, a dynamic, desirable and thriving country with an established coffee culture. Costa is all about great people and great handcrafted coffee and in partnership with Autogrill we are confident that Costa Coffee will appeal to coffee lovers in Vietnam”

Founded in London by Italian brothers Sergio and Bruno Costa in 1971, Costa is now part of Whitbread PLC, which this year celebrates its 275th Anniversary as a great British business.

With over 2,200 coffee shops in the UK and more than 1,200 in 29 international markets we are the fastest growing coffee shop business in the UK and are proud to be the UK’s favourite coffee shop, having been awarded “Best Branded Coffee Shop Chain in the UK and Ireland” by Allegra Strategies for seven years running (2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014 & 2015 and 2016).

Looking after coffee growers is extremely important to us, which is why we established The Costa Foundation, a registered charity with the aim to relieve poverty, advance education and the health and environment of coffee-growing communities around the world. So far, The Costa Foundation has funded the building of 72 schools and improved the social and economic welfare of coffee-growing communities.

Source: Costa Coffee

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ENGLAND: B&M opens new store at Abbey Retail Park in Daventry

Hartlepool, United Kingdom, 2017-Oct-06 — /EPR Retail News/ — B&M continued its growth today (04 October 2017) as a new store was opened on Abbey Retail Park in Daventry.

The latest addition to B&M’s portfolio in the region comes as a huge boost to the local economy, creating 45 jobs for people from the area.

As part of the opening day celebrations, B&M colleagues invited local charity, Daventry Volunteers Centre, to be their VIP for the day, while local Mayor Councillor Lynne Taylor, was also in attendance.

The charity has been the heart of volunteering in Daventry for the last 25 years. They recruit volunteers for local charities and not-for-profit organisations, and also support local projects that help deliver better services to local people. These include the New St Café Project and Happy at Home Partnership.

They received £250 worth of B&M vouchers as a thank you for taking part and for all of their hard work in the local community.

The store manager, Sanjay Kakab, said: “The team from Daventry Volunteers Centre really stood out for us as they go the extra mile for the local community, we wanted to give them some VIP treatment as a thank you for all the hard work they do.

“We hope that our donation can help them to continue the great work they do.”

He also commented: “The new team have been working really hard to get the store ready for opening day and we can’t wait to get the doors open next Wednesday and show customers their new B&M Daventry.”

Contact:

email: press@bmstores.co.uk

Source: B&M

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Dunkin’ Donuts features frighteningly fun Halloween lineup this October

Dunkin’ Donuts features frighteningly fun Halloween lineup this October

 

  • New Spider Donut features a chocolate MUNCHKINS® donut hole treat on top, plus the Dunkin’ Dozen donuts get a Halloween makeover, including the Boston Scream, Witch’s Brew-Berry, Vampire’s Delight, Wicked Chocolate and more
  • Throughout October, guests can purchase any 10 MUNCHKINS® for the special price of $1.99
  • Dunkin’ Donuts brings back its annual in-store fundraising program, inviting guests to donate to the Joy in Childhood Foundation to bring joy to sick and hungry children

CANTON, MA, 2017-Oct-06 — /EPR Retail News/ — Halloween season begins today (October 3, 2017), and Dunkin’ Donuts is celebrating in a spooktacular and sweet new way by tricking out its classic donut treats. For the first time ever, many donuts at participating Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants throughout the country will be disguised for Halloween with wickedly festive new looks and names just for the month of October. Throughout the month, guests will also be able to purchase any 10 MUNCHKINS® for the special price of $1.99 at participating Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants.

At the front of the frighteningly fun Halloween lineup is the new creepy, crawly Spider Donut, a classic donut frosted with orange icing with a sweet-not-scary eight-legged donut creature on top, made from a glazed chocolate MUNCHKINS® donut hole treat with chocolate drizzle for the spider legs and orange drizzle for the eyes. The Boston Scream Donut, a spirited variation of Dunkin’s classic Boston Kreme Donut featuring an orange drizzle, also returns to the donut lineup.

Meanwhile, the rest of the Dunkin’ Dozen have received a Halloween makeover for ghosts and guests alike, including:

  • Scary Strawberry: A frightful version of a Strawberry Frosted Donut, with chocolate and orange sprinkles
  • Spooky Sprinkles: An eerie take on the Chocolate Frosted Donut, topped with chocolate and orange sprinkles
  • Purple Potion: Be sweet on Halloween spells with this Vanilla Frosted Donut featuring purple icing, topped with chocolate and orange sprinkles
  • Full Moon: You’ll howl for this Powdered Donut with orange-colored powdered sugar
  • Witch’s Brew-Berry: Our Glazed Blueberry Donut bewitched with a drizzle of purple icing
  • Nilla Nightmare: A Vanilla Creme Donut with orange-colored powdered sugar will haunt your dreams
  • Ghoulish Glazed: A monster-turned Glazed Donut
  • Vampire’s Delight: A spooktacular Jelly Donut
  • Wicked Chocolate: Something delicious this way comes with this Glazed Chocolate Donut
  • Owl Fashioned: An Old Fashioned Donut for a midnight treat
  • Choc-O-Lantern: The Double Chocolate Donut can be enjoyed while celebrating Halloween or carving a jack-o’-lantern

Many of Dunkin’s MUNCHKINS® will also be dressed up for Halloween season, including Jelly MUNCHKINS® “Vampire Bites,” “Full Moon MUNCHKINS®” featuring orange-colored powdered sugar, and more. All donuts and MUNCHKINS® will come in redesigned packaging, including an all-new 10 count MUNCHKINS® box. The new sturdier packaging featuring fun, colorful designs will be at participating Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants permanently.

Who better to help Dunkin’ Donuts welcome Halloween season than the legendary “Dancing Pumpkin Man?” The brand has partnered with the internet sensation for an encore performance. “Dancing Pumpkin Man” recently created content to celebrate the return of Dunkin’ Donuts’ pumpkin menu, and now will help unveil the full Halloween donut lineup in a sensational video now available on Dunkin’ Donuts’ social channels and on the Dunkin’ Donuts blog: https://news.dunkindonuts.com/blog/Halloween_DancingPumpkinMan.

Finally, beginning October 2, Dunkin’ Donuts will help bring joy to children whose lives are affected by sickness or hunger with the return of ”Community Cups”, its annual, in-store national fundraising program to benefit the Joy in Childhood Foundation, the charitable foundation supported by the Dunkin’ Donuts and Baskin-Robbins brands. Through November 19, Dunkin’ Donuts guests are invited to make a donation to the Foundation at participating Dunkin’ Donuts and Dunkin’ Donuts / Baskin-Robbins multi-brand restaurants nationwide. Participants will be given a paper icon showing that they gave joy, to sign and display at the restaurant or take home. As an additional thank you for guests’ support, the paper icon also includes a special coupon that can be redeemed for $1 off the purchase of a dozen donuts, which expires 12/31/17.

The “Community Cups” program supports the Joy in Childhood Foundation’s mission to provide the simple joys of childhood to sick and hungry kids. This is the fifth consecutive year that Dunkin’ Donuts and Baskin-Robbins has launched this fundraising initiative to support the Foundation. Since launching in 2006, the Joy in Childhood Foundation (formerly The Dunkin’ Donuts & Baskin-Robbins Community Foundation), has granted more than $14 million to hundreds of national and local charities across the country.

To learn more about Dunkin’ Donuts, visit www.DunkinDonuts.com, or subscribe to the Dunkin’ Donuts blog to receive notifications at https://news.dunkindonuts.com/blog.

About Dunkin’ Donuts

Founded in 1950, Dunkin’ Donuts is America’s favorite all-day, everyday stop for coffee and baked goods. Dunkin’ Donuts is a market leader in the hot regular/decaf/flavored coffee, iced coffee, donut, bagel and muffin categories. Dunkin’ Donuts has earned a No. 1 ranking for customer loyalty in the coffee category by Brand Keys for 11 years running. The company has more than 12,300 restaurants in 46 countries worldwide. Based in Canton, Mass., Dunkin’ Donuts is part of the Dunkin’ Brands Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: DNKN) family of companies. For more information, visit www.DunkinDonuts.com.

About the Joy in Childhood Foundation 
The Joy in Childhood Foundation, the charitable foundation supported by the Dunkin’ Donuts and Baskin-Robbins brands, provides the simple joys of childhood to sick and hungry kids. The Foundation brings together a wide range of stakeholders — including franchisees, crew members, employees, partners and guests — and partners with food banks, children’s hospitals, and nonprofit organizations directly committed to serving sick and hungry kids to fund joyful environments, joyful experiences and joyful expressions to ensure that children whose lives are compromised by hunger or sickness have the support and essential services to find joy in their daily lives. Since launching in 2006, the Joy in Childhood Foundation (formerly The Dunkin’ Donuts & Baskin-Robbins Community Foundation), has granted more than $14 million to hundreds of national and local charities across the country.

Contact:

Heather McIntyre
Dunkin’ Brands
781-737-5200
Heather.McIntyre@dunkinbrands.com

Source: Dunkin’ Donuts

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Baskin-Robbins unveils hauntingly delicious desserts this Halloween season

Baskin-Robbins unveils hauntingly delicious desserts this Halloween season

 

  • No tricks, just treats as Baskin-Robbins also offers several sweet deals in October,
  • including a Small Cappuccino Blast® for $2.99

CANTON, Mass., 2017-Oct-06 — /EPR Retail News/ — Baskin-Robbins, the world’s largest chain of specialty ice cream shops, is bringing hauntingly delicious desserts to its shops nationwide this Halloween season, including the new Fang-Tastic Monster Cake. Additionally, Baskin-Robbins is offering a range of frighteningly good deals over the course of October, including a Small Cappuccino Blast® for $2.99 all month long.

“Spooktacular” Treats

The newest addition to Baskin-Robbins’ ice cream cakes lineup, the Fang-Tastic Monster Cake, is a friendly and fuzzy monster cake that can be customized with a guest’s favorite ice cream and cake flavors. Guests are also invited to try Baskin-Robbins’ new Trick or Treat Polar Pizza® Ice Cream Treat, which features Made with SNICKERS® ice cream piled high with classic Halloween candies. Both treats can be pre-ordered for Halloween parties either in-store or online at www.baskinrobbins.com/onlineordering.

Baskin-Robbins is also getting into the Halloween spirit with its October Flavor of the Month, Candy Bar Mashup. This flavor features a monster mashup of SNICKERS®, MILKY WAY® and TWIX® bar pieces in chocolate ice cream with a caramel ribbon swirled throughout. Candy Bar Mashup can be enjoyed in a cup, cone or with candy toppings.

Finally, Baskin-Robbins is launching a new and improved Milkshake this month that’s creamier and more delicious than ever. Guests can enjoy any Baskin-Robbins ice cream flavor in their Milkshake, including classic favorite World Class® Chocolate, which features rich white chocolate flavored mousse ice cream swirled with milk chocolate flavored mousse ice cream.

Frighteningly Good Deals

Throughout the month of October, Baskin-Robbins will be offering guests several frighteningly good deals, including a Small Cappuccino Blast for $2.99 all month long. This delicious frozen coffee beverage is made with 100% Arabica coffee and ice cream blended together and topped with whipped cream and cinnamon. It can also be enjoyed with any Baskin-Robbins flavor, including seasonal favorites like Pumpkin Pie.

Starting this month, guests can also enjoy ice cream cakes starting at $12.99. Ice cream cake varieties starting at $12.99 include the ½ roll Celebration Party Cake, which is a festive cake featuring colorful streamers, and the ½ roll Rosette Cake, which is an elegant cake enrobed with either pink or blue rosettes. These two cakes serve 2-4 people and are perfect for everyday occasions.

Finally, guests can make Halloween even more “fang-tastic” by stopping into Baskin-Robbins to enjoy its October “Celebrate 31” promotion. On October 31st at participating restaurants nationwide, guests can enjoy any regular or kids-sized scoop of ice cream for $1.50.* This promotion can be enjoyed on any Baskin-Robbins ice cream flavor.

“We know how much our guests look forward to Halloween each year, which is why we’re so excited to introduce several new treats to help them celebrate, including our new Fang-Tastic Monster Cake, Trick or Treat Polar Pizza® and Candy Bar Mashup ice cream,” said Carol Austin, Vice President of Marketing for Baskin-Robbins. “We hope our guests also take advantage of the sweet deals this month, including our $2.99 Small Cappuccino Blast offer and ‘Celebrate 31’ promotion on Halloween.”

For more information about Baskin-Robbins’ wide variety of premium ice cream flavors and frozen desserts, visit www.BaskinRobbins.com or follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/BaskinRobbins), Twitter (www.twitter.com/BaskinRobbins) or Instagram (www.instagram.com/BaskinRobbins).

®/™ SNICKERS, MILKY WAY and TWIX are registered trademarks of Mars, Inc. ©Mars, Incorporated. Used under license by Baskin-Robbins.

* Offer valid on October 31st. Participation may vary. Scoop offer good on every size scoop. All listed flavors are optional amongst Baskin-Robbins’ stores. Waffle cones and toppings are extra. Cannot be combined with other offers. Plus applicable tax.

About Baskin-Robbins

Named a top ice cream and frozen dessert franchise in the United States by Entrepreneur magazine’s 38th annual Franchise 500® ranking in 2017, Baskin-Robbins is the world’s largest chain of ice cream specialty shops. Baskin-Robbins creates and markets innovative, premium hard scoop ice cream, a full range of beverages, and a delicious lineup of desserts including custom ice cream cakes, the Polar Pizza® Ice Cream Treat and take-home ice cream quarts and pints, providing quality and value to consumers at more than 7,800 retail shops in 52 countries worldwide. Baskin-Robbins was founded in 1945 by two ice cream enthusiasts whose passion led to the creation of more than 1,300 ice cream flavors and a wide variety of delicious treats. Headquartered in Canton, Mass., Baskin-Robbins is part of the Dunkin’ Brands Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: DNKN) family of companies. For more information, visit www.BaskinRobbins.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Justin Drake
Phone: 781-737-5200
Email: press@dunkinbrands.com

Source: Baskin-Robbins

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Accenture Interactive recognized for innovation and artificial intelligence capabilities in transforming retail experiences

Report cites innovation and artificial intelligence capabilities as Accenture Interactive strengths for transforming retail experiences

NEW YORK, 2017-Oct-06 — /EPR Retail News/ — Accenture Interactive has been recognized as a Leader in the recently published “IDC MarketScape: Worldwide Retail Digital Marketing Technology Services 2017 Vendor Assessment*” report.

The report highlights Accenture Interactive’s deep industry expertise and its ability to deliver end-to-end digital marketing capabilities to clients to reinvent retail experiences. In making its assessment, the IDC MarketScape noted that “innovation and application of artificial intelligence to retail marketing, an imperative in our view, is an area in which Accenture Interactive excels.”

Accenture Interactive was recognized for its ability to help retailers align their digital marketing technology strategies to evolving competitive realities, as well as its strengths in innovation with a broad portfolio of patents and strong retail-oriented start-up ecosystem and business strategy consulting services. The report also noted Accenture Interactive’s diverse agency and analytics talent.

The report evaluated Accenture Interactive and six other service providers on criteria for successful delivery of services that help retailers digitally transform their omni-channel marketing technologies.

IDC MarketScape vendor analysis model is designed to provide an overview of the competitive fitness of ICT suppliers in a given market. The research methodology utilizes a rigorous scoring methodology based on both qualitative and quantitative criteria that results in a single graphical illustration of each vendor’s position within a given market. The Capabilities score measures vendor product, go-to-market and business execution in the short-term. The Strategy score measures alignment of vendor strategies with customer requirements in a 3-5-year timeframe. Vendor market share is represented by the size of the icons

“Retailers are at an inflection point with their customers and are increasingly focused on connected digital experiences to remain relevant under the pressure of changing shopping behaviors,” said Bob Markham, managing director, Accenture Interactive. “We are honored to be distinguished as a leader in helping retailers transform their digital marketing capabilities, while also being recognized for our unique blend of creative talent, retail consulting, and technology acumen to deliver exceptional customer experiences.”

“Accenture Interactive continues to lead when it comes to delivering innovative and connected experiences for clients. By marrying the deep industry expertise of Accenture with the breadth of experience capabilities, Accenture Interactive continues to be a key player in helping top retailers achieve their digital marketing and transformation goals,” said Greg Girard, program director, Worldwide Omni-Channel Retail Analytics Strategies, IDC Retail Insights.

“We recognized the fundamental shift in consumers’ retail behaviors and the disruption to the industry and took some bold steps to further strengthen our digital marketing and technology services capabilities,” said Jill Standish, senior managing director and head of Accenture’s global Retail practice. “We are focused on developing the digital content and commerce strategies and platforms our clients need to provide hyper-personalized brand and buying experiences to their customers to reach the next frontier of digital commerce.”

*doc # US42556916, May 2017

About Accenture Interactive
Accenture Interactive helps the world’s leading brands transform their customer experiences across the entire customer journey. Through our connected offerings in design, marketing, content and commerce, we create new ways to win in today’s experience-led economy. Accenture Interactive is ranked the world’s largest digital agency in the latest Ad Age Agency Report. To learn more, follow us @accentureACTIVE and visit www.accentureinteractive.com.

About Accenture
Accenture (NYSE: ACN) is a leading global professional services company, providing a broad range of services and solutions in strategy, consulting, digital, technology and operations. Combining unmatched experience and specialized skills across more than 40 industries and all business functions – underpinned by the world’s largest delivery network – Accenture works at the intersection of business and technology to help clients improve their performance and create sustainable value for their stakeholders. With approximately 425,000 people serving clients in more than 120 countries, Accenture drives innovation to improve the way the world works and lives. Visit us at www.accenture.com.

About IDC MarketScape
IDC MarketScape vendor analysis model is designed to provide an overview of the competitive fitness of ICT (information and communications technology) suppliers in a given market. The research methodology utilizes a rigorous scoring methodology based on both qualitative and quantitative criteria that results in a single graphical illustration of each vendor’s position within a given market. IDC MarketScape provides a clear framework in which the product and service offerings, capabilities and strategies, and current and future market success factors of IT and telecommunications vendors can be meaningfully compared. The framework also provides technology buyers with a 360-degree assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of current and prospective vendors.

Contact:

Kelly Coffed
Accenture
+1 404 219 3100
kelly.coffed@accenture.com

Source: Accenture

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NCR will host its 17th annual Innovation Conference on October 10-12, 2017 in Orlando, Florida

Financial services thought leaders, leading financial institutions and technology partners will converge on Orlando next week at NCR-hosted event

DULUTH, Ga., 2017-Oct-06 — /EPR Retail News/ — NCR Corporation (NYSE: NCR), a global leader in omni-channel solutions, will host its 17th annual Innovation Conference on October 10-12, 2017 at the Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin Resort in Orlando, Florida. Set to the theme of “Connected Experiences”, attendees will gain insights to deliver unparalleled customer experiences and create stronger connections with consumers, small businesses and peers, while solving real business challenges.

The three-day event will feature keynote presentations from JP Nicols, internationally recognized advisor on innovation, strategy and leadership for the future of financial services and managing director of Fintech Forge, and Mick Ebeling, a Muhammad Ali Humanitarian of the Year award winner and chief executive officer of Not Impossible, an organization that develops creative solutions to address real-world problems.

“Rapid change in consumer behavior is re-defining how enterprises build solutions for the future, and how they bridge digital and physical experiences,” Jose Resendiz, VP of Financial Services, NCR Corporation. “This year’s Innovation Conference will provide the venue for future-looking conversations with our customers on how NCR and NCR strategic partners can help them address the digital future to be ready to architect the experiences of tomorrow.”

Innovation Conference 2017 will include a collection of industry relevant sessions and panel discussions, an Innovation Hall showcasing the latest in banking technologies and solutions from NCR and partners, and Idea Tank, a pitch-style competition featuring NCR customers’ breakthrough ideas on how banks can improve end user experience.

In 2016, Rivermark Community Credit Union’s Seth Schaefer won Idea Tank with the idea for Simplified Member Authentication, a solution that would securely authenticate members or customers in every channel, whether it be at an Interactive Teller Machine (ITM), ATM, in-person branch transaction, over the telephone, or with a loan officer.

About NCR Corporation
NCR Corporation (NYSE: NCR) is a leader in omni-channel solutions, turning everyday interactions with businesses into exceptional experiences. With its software, hardware, and portfolio of services, NCR enables nearly 700 million transactions daily across retail, financial, travel, hospitality, telecom and technology, and small business. NCR solutions run the everyday transactions that make your life easier. NCR is headquartered in Duluth, Ga., with over 30,000 employees and does business in 180 countries. NCR is a trademark of NCR Corporation in the United States and other countries. NCR encourages investors to visit its web site which is updated regularly with financial and other important information about NCR.

Website: www.ncr.com
Twitter: @NCRCorporation
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ncrcorp
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/ncr-corporation
YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/ncrcorporation

Media Contacts:

Aaron Gould
NCR Corporation
212-589-8556
aaron.gould@ncr.com

Source: NCR Corporation

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NCR launches mobile POS solution designed for micro businesses: Ring Up by NCR Silver powered by Worldpay

Mobile payment reader and app join family of NCR Silver solutions built for every stage of business, marks NCR’s entrance in new market

DULUTH, Ga., 2017-Oct-06 — /EPR Retail News/ — NCR Corporation (NYSE: NCR), a global leader in omni-channel solutions, has launched Ring Up by NCR Silver, a mobile point-of-sale (POS) solution designed for the 3.7 million U.S. micro businesses* that need a simple way to manage the sales process and accept payments.

The launch marks NCR’s entrance into the rapidly growing U.S. micro merchant category.

Ring Up by NCR Silver offers a seamless way for businesses to professionally manage a sale and accept chip and swipe payments. It also saves merchants time by helping them set up a product catalog in advance, review total sales, send e-receipts and build marketing databases of opt-in customers.

Payment processing for Ring Up by NCR Silver is powered by Worldpay and includes a mobile reader that wirelessly connects to Android™ or iOS devices via the accompanying mobile app. No headset jack is needed.

Barely larger than a credit card in length, the Ring Up by NCR Silver mobile reader fits conveniently in a pocket or can be attached to an included lanyard for easy access on the go.

Thanks to Worldpay, U.S. based merchants will not have to go through the hassle of finding a payment processor. The relationship enables merchants to quickly start accepting the payments their customers want.

“We’re excited to continue our relationship with NCR and help micro businesses navigate an increasingly complex payments landscape,” said Jon Pollock, Chief Product Officer, Worldpay US. “With Worldpay’s processing power, these businesses can now offer customers a seamless payments experience that might have been previously out of reach.”

Ring Up by NCR Silver also offers privacy benefits differentiating it from competitive solutions, and offers customers live U.S.-based 24/7 service via chat, email, phone and text. In addition, they save time and money by enjoying access to payment data in near real time, eliminating costly manual entry errors and always receiving simple and transparent pricing. NCR and Worldpay’s longstanding relationship makes pricing competitive and includes a low processing and subscription rate.

“With the addition of Ring Up by NCR Silver, we can now support businesses through every phase, from startup to franchise,” said Chris Poelma, President and GM of NCR Silver. “Ring Up by NCR Silver is the stepping stone for micro merchants or service providers looking for a reliable technology partner to grow with. Once these businesses are ready to expand, NCR Silver will be there to help.”

The Ring Up by NCR Silver app is now available in the App Store® and the Google PlayTM store. For more information, visit www.getringup.com.

To learn more about Ring Up by NCR Silver and NCR Silver features, call 1-877-630-9711. NCR Silver technology runs in the cloud, uses consumer-friendly hardware, and works on Apple® and Android™ devices.

About NCR Corporation
NCR Corporation (NYSE: NCR) is a leader in omni-channel solutions, turning everyday interactions with businesses into exceptional experiences. With its software, hardware, and portfolio of services, NCR enables nearly 700 million transactions daily across retail, financial, travel, hospitality, telecom and technology, and small business. NCR solutions run the everyday transactions that make your life easier. NCR is headquartered in Duluth, Ga., with over 30,000 employees and does business in 180 countries. NCR is a trademark of NCR Corporation in the United States and other countries. NCR encourages investors to visit its web site which is updated regularly with financial and other important information about NCR.

Websites: www.ncr.com | www.ncrsilver.com | www.getringup.com
Twitter: @NCRSilver
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ncrsilver
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/ncr-corporation
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/NCRSilverPOS

About Worldpay
Worldpay is a leading payments company with global reach. We provide an extensive range of technology-led payment products and services to around 400,000 customers, enabling their businesses to grow and prosper. We manage the increasing complexity of the payments landscape for our customers, allowing them to accept the widest range of payment types around the world. Using our network and technology, we are able to process payments from geographies covering 99% of global GDP, across 146 countries and 126 currencies.  We help our customers to accept more than 300 different payment types.

For more information, visit http://www.worldpay.com/us

Apple, Apple Pay, iPhone, iPad and iPod touch are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

iOS is a trademark or registered trademark of Cisco in the U.S. and other countries and is used under license.

News Media Contacts:

Aaron Gould
NCR Corporation
212.589.8556
aaron.gould@ncr.com

Jackie Parker
Arketi Group, for NCR Corporation
404.929.0091, ext. 220
jparker@arketi.com

Payal Shukla
Walker Sands Communications, for Worldpay US
312.648.6006
payal.shukla@walkersands.com

Source: NCR Corporation

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RioCan REIT enters into agreement with Sears Canada for its locations at RioCan Oakville Place, Ontario and Garden City Shopping Centre in Manitoba

TORONTO, 2017-Oct-06 — /EPR Retail News/ — RioCan Real Estate Investment Trust(“RioCan”) (TSX:REI.UN) is pleased to announce that it has entered into agreements with Sears Canada Inc. (“Sears”), which received court approval on October 4, 2017. Sears is currently subject to restructuring proceedings under the Companies’ Creditors Arrangement Act (“CCAA”). RioCan and its co-owner Hudson Bay Company (“HBC”) have secured a surrender agreement with Sears for its location at RioCan Oakville Place, in Oakville, Ontario for a fee of $4 million (at 100%). In addition, at Garden City Shopping Centre in Winnipeg, Manitoba, RioCan and its co-owner Bayfield Realty Advisors (“Bayfield”) have entered into an agreement to purchase the freehold interest in the Sears location for a purchase price of $8 million (at 100%).

RioCan Oakville Place
RioCan and HBC have entered into an agreement with Sears to secure a lease surrender, for a fee of $4 million (at 100%). The property is co-owned through RioCan’s joint venture with HBC on a 50/50 basis. In the approximately 104,000 square feet formerly leased by Sears, RioCan has the option for a 40,000 square foot Saks Off Fifth, which it is considering among other alternatives. The partners are also in discussions with other national tenants to take the remainder of the space. The new leases when completed will provide significantly more rental income than what was generated previously through the lease arrangement with Sears. These new and exciting tenants will also serve to improve the appeal of RioCan Oakville Place and attract a wider range of shoppers.

Over the past three years, RioCan Oakville Place has undergone an extensive $40 million renovation that includes a modernization of the interior common areas and exterior improvements at the centre; renovation of the Hudson Bay store that anchors the site; replacement of the parking deck; and the introduction of fresh new retailers including Pusateri’s Fine Foods, Sephora, and Pandora.

RioCan’s Oakville Place is a two level regional mall containing approximately 470,000 square feet of gross leasable area situated on a 29 acre site, located adjacent to and directly off of Queen Elizabeth Way (“QEW”), the major highway running through Ontario’s “Golden Horseshoe”, in Oakville, Ontario. The mall is well connected to local transit infrastructure and within close proximity to the Oakville Go Train station. Oakville is a fast growingcommunity with a strong, diversified economic base, and possesses one of Canada’s highest income demographics with an average household income statistic that is well above the national average.

In connection with the lease surrender, the partners will now be free to pursue future intensification possibilities at the site as the agreement eliminates the development restrictions that were part of the Sears lease agreement. With few development locations available in Oakville, it represents a significant opportunity to create additional value on the site with the potential significant additional density.

Garden City Shopping Centre
RioCan and its co-owner Bayfield have entered into a firm agreement to acquire the freehold interest in the Sears location at Garden City Shopping Centre in Winnipeg, Manitoba at a purchase price of $8 million (at 100%). The partners own the site on a 30% RioCan 70% Bayfield basis. RioCan provides property and asset management services for the property.

Located in Winnipeg’s Garden City neighbourhood, the Garden City Shopping Centre is home to 85 retailers and includes major national tenants such as Canadian Tire, Winners, Dollarama, and Goodlife Fitness. The centre is currently undergoing a $9 million renovation by the partners that will incorporate an expanded food court dining area, larger bathrooms and additional comfort seating within the mall as well as improvements to the energy efficiency of the centre.

The former Sears location is approximately 92,500 square feet and by acquiring the site the partners will secure control over the entirety of the site and the access points to the shopping centre. In addition, it will simplify the ownership structure of the property should the partners seek redevelopment opportunities at the location.

ABOUT RIOCAN
RioCan is Canada’s largest real estate investment trust with a total enterprise value of approximately $13.9 billion as at June 30, 2017. RioCan owns, manages and develops retail-focused, increasingly mixed-use properties located in prime, high-density transit-oriented areas where Canadians want to shop, live and work. Our portfolio is comprised of 299 properties, including 15 development properties, with an aggregate net leasable area of approximately 45 million square feet. To learn more about how we deliver real vision on solid ground, visit www.riocan.com.

FORWARD LOOKING INFORMATION
This news release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. This information includes, but is not limited to, statements concerning the acquisition of the former Sears locations at Oakville Place and Garden City Shopping Centre, as well as statements with respect to management’s beliefs, plans, estimates, and intentions, and similar statements concerning anticipated future events or expectations that are not historical facts. Forward-looking information generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “may”, “will”, “would”, “expect”, “intend”, “estimate”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “plan”, or similar expressions suggesting future outcomes or events. Such forward-looking information reflects management’s current beliefs and is based on information currently available to management. All forward-looking information in this News Release is qualified by these cautionary statements.

Forward-looking information is not a guarantee of future events or performance and, by its nature, is based on RioCan’s current estimates and assumptions, which are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, as described under “Risks and Uncertainties” in RioCan’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis for the period ended June 30, 2017 (“MD&A”) and the Trust’s most recent Annual Information Form, and including that the transactions contemplated herein are completed, which could cause actual events or results to differ materially from the forward-looking information contained in this News Release. Although the forward looking information contained in this News Release is based upon what management believes are reasonable assumptions, there can be no assurance that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. Certain statements included in this News Release may be considered “financial outlook” for purposes of applicable securities laws, and such financial outlook may not be appropriate for purposes other than this News Release.

Except as required by applicable law, RioCan undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Information Contact:

RioCan Real Estate Investment Trust
Qi Tang
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
416-866-3033

Source: RioCan Real Estate Investment Trust

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Anna-Karin Dahlberg appointed Lindex new Corporate Sustainability Manager

Anna-Karin Dahlberg appointed Lindex new Corporate Sustainability Manager

 

Sweden, 2017-Oct-06 — /EPR Retail News/ — Anna-Karin Dahlberg has been assigned the role as Lindex new Corporate Sustainability Manager and will lead the sustainability work in all areas of the business.

It feels fantastic and I’m proud of how Lindex has managed to integrate sustainability in the entire business. We have come a long way and I look forward to further developing our sustainability work, says Anna-Karin Dahlberg.

After more than fifteen years at Lindex, in Sweden and abroad, Anna-Karin has long and substantial experience with Lindex and the company’s sustainability work. For the last three years, she has been responsible for the sustainability work in Lindex supply chain. Anna-Karin succeeds Lindex former sustainability manager Sara Winroth, who is now moving on to other challenges.

Lindex is committed to work with sustainability in all areas of the business, including a lifecycle perspective from design to when a garment is no longer used. Today, more than half of Lindex garments are made of more sustainable materials and the goal is to reach 80 % by 2020.

“We have come a long way with our sustainability work at Lindex, but we also have many challenges ahead of us. Sustainability is everyone’s responsibility and we must take ours, together with our partners, suppliers and customers. That way we can have a positive and sustainable development in society”, says Anna-Karin.

Source: Lindex

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INTERSPAR to build the most modern shopping centre in Austria at Steyr

INTERSPAR to build the most modern shopping centre in Austria at Steyr

 

Austria, 2017-Oct-06 — /EPR Retail News/ — The most modern INTERSPAR shopping centre in Austria will be built in Upper Austria’s district capital Steyr. Approval for the project was given by Mayor Gerald Hackl and Managing Director INTERSPAR Austria, Markus Kaser. Throughout the full year of construction, the INTERSPAR Hypermarket will remain open.

€21.1 million for the most modern INTERSPAR shopping centre
“In just over a year, the first customers will experience a new shopping paradise here,” said Markus Kaser, Managing Director INTERSPAR Austria. The building will be completely excavated and redesigned in two construction phases. The INTERSPAR Hypermarket and the majority of the shops will stay open during the entire renovation. Only the INTERSPAR restaurant is expected to be temporarily closed from spring to autumn 2018.

“We intend to provide a friendly, bright and pleasant shopping atmosphere, a place where, in addition to delicious food, customers can also purchase everything for their daily needs,” explained Mr Kaser.  At the time of the reopening in late 2018, about 200 people will join a modern workplace in the shopping centre.

Positive impulse for the region’s economy
“The €21 million investment in the redevelopment of the INTERSPAR Hypermarket highlights the status of our city as a shopping and trading centre for the entire region. At the same time, a success story continues, which began with the opening in 1999 and continued through a broad and high-quality offer as well as the perfect customer service,”  said Mayor Gerald Hackl.

Contact:

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

Source: Spar International

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SPAR UK Partner, A.F. Blakemore & Son raised £30,379 for children’s charity NSPCC

SPAR UK Partner, A.F. Blakemore & Son raised £30,379 for children’s charity NSPCC

 

UK, 2017-Oct-06 — /EPR Retail News/ — SPAR UK Partner, A.F. Blakemore & Son, has raised funds for a leading children’s charity and honoured SPAR retailers at their annual Retail Trade Show. This SPAR Partner is celebrating their 100-year anniversary this year with a diverse range of activities.

SPAR store St Fagans raises over £30,000 for the NSPCC

SPAR St. Fagans in Cardiff has raised £30,379 for the NSPCC, which is the leading children’s charity fighting to end child abuse in the UK and Channel islands. The funds were raised during a six-year partnership with the charity, through an array of fundraising events such as dress down days, raffles, book stalls and instore sale markets.

The store reached this figure after hosting a charity birthday party on 1 September in celebration of A.F. Blakemore & Son Ltd’s 100-year anniversary. The SPAR store manager, Allen Collett, said: “It is important to involve colleagues in the fundraising activities so that fundraising becomes a fun thing to do and not just another chore. After all, the better the event, the better the fun and the more money raised for the NSPCC.”

Since 2006, Blakemore Retail employees have raised more than £2.7 million for NSPCC services through fundraising activities.

SPAR Retail Show 2017: The Customer at Heart

The Customer at Heart was the key message from this year’s Blakemore Trade Partners SPAR Retail Show, which was attended by more than 1,100 guests. The  event took place at the Telford International Centre on 7 September and encompassed a Conference, Trade Show and Guild Dinner, focusing on how A F Blakemore and its retailers can best prioritise the needs of the shopper.

At the conference, representatives from A F Blakemore and SPAR retailers spoke about the importance of developing store formats to meet the needs of local shoppers, product development in the award-winning SPAR brand range and how the Blakemore Foundation can help retailers engage with their local communities. Blakemore Trade Partners Sales Director, Neil Mercer, explained: “We have always focused on a customer-first strategy, whether through store format developments, category management or marketing activities.”

SPAR Sleaford crowned Baldwin Trophy winners at SRS 2017

Hockmeyer Motors SPAR Sleaford were crowned best SPAR store in their region, thanks to Rachael Hockmeyer and Christian Slingby’s relentless focus on driving their retail business, and their incredible commitment to the local community. In addition to developing their business, such as refitting and refurbishing their store, great support has been given to numerous local organisations

Contact:

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

Source: Spar International

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SPAR Guangdong supports programmes for children in Dongguan Province

SPAR Guangdong supports programmes for children in Dongguan Province

 

Guangdong, China, 2017-Oct-06 — /EPR Retail News/ — SPAR Partners in China are very actively involved in community initiatives. Here, we share details of only two of the recently held programmes for children, focused on Dongguan Province.

SPAR Guangdong launched the Hazeline Jingxin Green Backpack Charitable event for children of migrant families jointly with Unilever Hazeline at the SPAR Guangdong New Migrants Happiness Garden. The goal is to work with organisations, social community partners and individual volunteers focused on both the physical and mental well-being of all children. The celebrity Yi Nengjing, as the founder of Jingxin Library Foundation, attended a series of events and spent a lovely day together with children to raise awareness around special needs and care for children from migrant families. This is the fourth year that Yi Nengjing is working together with SPAR Guangdong and Unilever to distribute free backpacks for children in need, each of them filled with eight or nine grade-specific books including The Wizard of Oz, Peter Pan, Fairy Tales by Andersen, and other great books for children.  SPAR Guangdong has provided financial support to SPAR Jiarong Happiness Garden since the establishment of first location at Gekeng Community in 2012. This programme encourages community, individual and business alike to come together for the good of migrant families in the city of Dongguan, provides a safe and warm place where children can do homework, reading books, have fun, try new activities, reach out psychological counselling, and enjoy band practice.

3rd Summer Camp “Trip with Kids” jointly supported by SPAR Guangdong and Unilever was a great success. The Summer Camp was started at the headquarter of SPAR Guangdong, welcoming 40 children, combining those who had remained in countryside after their parents had moved to urban centres seeking employment and children in need from the Hengli Gekeng community service centre. At this very exciting five-day trip, children experience outdoor activities, taking a tour of Humen Opium War Museum, Shenzhen Window of the World Park, and enjoying all that fun activities and classes to keep them entertained. Most of the children visited places they had never seen before and experienced hands-on barbecue and how to set up canopy tents.

Contact:

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

Source: Spar International

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Office Depot to acquire IT services, products and solutions provider CompuCom Systems, Inc.

  • Adding Market-Leading Provider of World-Class IT Services with Approximately $1.1 Billion in Sales to Create a Powerful Omnichannel Tech Services Platform
  • Combines CompuCom’s Broad Set of Managed Technology Services with Access to Office Depot’s Extensive Customer Base and Last-Mile Advantage to Generate Substantial Growth Opportunities
  • Expects Over $40 Million in Estimated Annual Cost Synergies within Two Years; Acquisition to be Accretive in Year One
  • Attractive Free Cash Flow and Significant Financial Flexibility to Implement Office Depot’s New Strategy to Grow Recurring Business Services Revenue

BOCA RATON, Fla., 2017-Oct-06 — /EPR Retail News/ — Office Depot, Inc. (“Office Depot” or the “company”) (NASDAQ:ODP) today (October 3, 2017) announced it is pivoting the company from a traditional office products retailer to a broader business services and technology products platform. As the first step in this new strategic direction, the company has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire CompuCom Systems, Inc. (“CompuCom”), a market-leading provider of award-winning IT services, products and solutions that enable the digital workplace for enterprise, small and midsize businesses. The company also provided a preliminary estimate of third-quarter financial results and a lowered outlook for Office Depot’s stand-alone business for 2017.

“Technology is the office supply of the future,” said Gerry Smith, chief executive officer of Office Depot. “Today marks a significant milestone as we move to provide a unique business services platform for our current and future customers. Acquiring CompuCom is the first step in this new strategic direction. The combination of CompuCom’s enterprise IT services with our millions of customers and approximately 1,400 distribution points gives us the credibility and scale to build a sustainable platform and stand apart from the competition. The company will create value for shareholders from a diversified revenue base with a clear opportunity to grow higher value services and business-to-business revenues.”

Under the terms of the agreement, Office Depot will acquire CompuCom from Thomas H. Lee Partners, L.P. (“THL”), a premier private equity firm, for a total consideration of approximately $1 billion, which includes the repayment of CompuCom debt and issuance of new Office Depot shares. Following the transaction, THL will hold an equity position in Office Depot of approximately 8% of total shares outstanding.

Founded in 1987, CompuCom provides highly-rated managed IT services to businesses with over 5.1 million unique end users. CompuCom’s team of approximately 6,000 licensed technicians is the largest employee field technician workforce in North America, providing remote and onsite technology support. CompuCom procures, installs and manages the lifecycle of hardware and software for businesses, and offers IT support services including remote help desk, data centers and on-site IT professionals. CompuCom was positioned in the Leaders quadrant of Gartner’s® most recently released Magic Quadrant® for Managed Workplace Services, North America. CompuCom has established long-term relationships with hundreds of blue chip customers, including six of the top 10 Fortune 500 companies, and many small- and medium-sized businesses, including local franchises of national brands.

Compelling Market Opportunity

The combination represents a unique opportunity to bring world-class IT support services to all of Office Depot’s customers, particularly underserved small- and medium-sized businesses (SMBs).

  • $25 Billion Opportunity: Together, Office Depot and CompuCom will be positioned to capture market share in a $25 billion, highly fragmented market as the first company to provide a nationwide, comprehensive network of enterprise-level tech services and products.
  • Targeted Small and Medium Business Model: The combined company will have an unmatched position in serving SMB customers by providing end-to-end award-winning IT services through its approximately 6,000 salaried, certified technicians nationwide and top-tier cloud and data centers. This model will fit within Office Depot’s omnichannel platform, particularly its last-mile footprint that offers access to nearly six million SMBs within three miles of its approximately 1,400 stores.
  • Expect Increased Traffic and Services Revenue Improving Store Profitability: CompuCom’s established SMB offering, Tech-Zone, will be placed within Office Depot’s nationwide retail footprint, providing immediate scale and driving traffic into Office Depot stores. Added services revenue and increased foot traffic will improve per-store profitability.
  • Immediate Cross-Selling Opportunity with Minimal Overlap: Both Office Depot and CompuCom sales teams can capitalize on minimal customer overlap to quickly begin cross-selling a full suite of products and services, with an incentive structure focused on driving services revenue.
  • Continued Focus on Core Enterprise Business: CompuCom will be the technology services platform for Office Depot, expanding CompuCom’s reach and enabling further efficiency initiatives in its core enterprise business focused on automation and innovation.
  • Enhanced Management Expertise: Since the arrival of Gerry Smith, who brings in-depth expertise in the technology sector, the company has added several senior leaders, including chief marketing officer, Jerri DeVard, chief legal officer, N. David Bleisch and chief merchant and services officer, Janet Schijns, who collectively bring proven experience in services and demand generation, in order to unlock the full value of this combination.

“Together with Office Depot we can create a distinctive offering for our enterprise and SMB customers and accelerate our growth,” said Dan Stone, chief executive officer of CompuCom. “The workplace has truly moved to a digital environment with the average worker having over four connected devices. Office Depot’s established brand and large national footprint will help to drive the expansion of our offerings to more markets and build on our client-focused success to welcome new customers seeking high-quality technology services and solutions.”

“We strongly believe in the compelling opportunity to create value for shareholders in this combination and look forward to supporting Office Depot in this next chapter,” said Soren Oberg, managing director at Thomas H. Lee Partners. “Office Depot is an ideal partner for CompuCom, as their strengths are highly complementary and, together, they will have a strong foothold in the fragmented managed services market and greater opportunities for growth.”

Financial Impact

Stephen Hare, chief financial officer of Office Depot added: “With this acquisition, we immediately add CompuCom’s significant, recurring revenue stream and proven service offerings to our platform, allowing us to quickly build scale. Together we will build deeper relationships with our business customers and provide the solutions they need, while generating long-term, sustainable value for our shareholders.”

The acquisition of CompuCom is expected to accelerate Office Depot’s ability to enhance shareholder value and pursue topline growth. While Office Depot intends to provide greater detail surrounding the long-term financial impact of the transaction during its next earnings call in November, Office Depot expects to:

  • Add approximately $1.1 billion of revenue
  • Deliver expected cost synergies of over $40 million within two years
  • Realize substantial revenue synergies over time as a result of the opportunity for CompuCom to access Office Depot’s multi-channel customer base

Office Depot has a demonstrated track-record of success in integrating acquisitions and delivering synergies, including over $750 million in cost savings from the OfficeMax acquisition alone.

Office Depot will finance the acquisition with new debt and the issuance of approximately 45 million shares of its common stock to THL. Office Depot expects to refinance CompuCom’s existing debt with a new term loan of approximately $750 million. Following the close of the transaction, Office Depot expects to maintain substantial financial flexibility with low balance sheet leverage, strong liquidity, and positive free cash flow available for debt repayment, capital returns to shareholders and growth initiatives.

Office Depot remains committed to returning capital to shareholders including its current cash dividend plan. The existing share buyback plan authorized by the Board of Directors remains in place.

Preliminary Q3 Results and Full-Year Outlook (3)(6)

Office Depot expects to report its third-quarter 2017 financial results in November. Based on a preliminary assessment, the company expects to report(5):

  • Total reported sales decline between 7-8% for the quarter including store closures.
    • Between 5-6% decline in comparable retail store sales.
    • Between 5-6% decline in constant currency sales within the BSD.
  • Adjusted operating income(2) between $125-$135 million for the quarter.
  • Free cash flow(4) from continuing operations of approximately $200 million for the quarter.
  • Approximately $750 million in cash and cash equivalents and approximately $1 billion available under the Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, for total available liquidity of approximately $1.75 billion. Total debt of approximately $285 million excluding non-recourse debt.

Office Depot expects to provide an updated long-term outlook, including the impact of the CompuCom acquisition, with the announcement of its third-quarter 2017 financial results, however the company has lowered its outlook for 2017.

Adjusted operating income(2) for fiscal 2017 is now estimated to be between $400-$425 million, excluding the impact of this transaction, compared to the previous estimate of approximately $500 million. Depreciation and amortization for the year is still estimated at $150 million with capital expenditures totaling $125 million compared to the previous estimates of $150 million for capital expenditures. Our updated guidance is driven by a number of factors, including:

  • Three hurricanes in the U.S. and Puerto Rico, where a significant concentration of our retail and BSD customers are located, particularly in Texas, Florida and Puerto Rico.
  • Lower sales and store traffic during this year’s back to school period, which is typically a strong season for Office Depot.
  • Temporary higher supply chain costs arising primarily from transition issues related to planned consolidation of vendors and warehouses.
  • Professional fees and other costs related to developing our strategy and transition to a broader omnichannel business services platform.

“We have moved quickly to make the necessary management and operational changes to address these performance issues, while investing in our services platform to prepare for this transaction with CompuCom,” commented Gerry Smith.

“We are focused on building stable and recurring service offerings that leverage our omnichannel platform and deliver the solutions our customers need, and strongly believe it can unlock significant value to our shareholders as we position Office Depot for the future.”

Approval Process

This transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including required regulatory approvals. This transaction is not subject to a shareholder vote and is expected to close by the end of the year.

Advisors

Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC is serving as financial advisor to Office Depot. Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz is serving as legal counsel. Weil Gotshal & Manges LLP is serving as legal counsel to CompuCom.

Additional information regarding the CompuCom acquisition and accompanying presentation can be found on Office Depot’s website in the “Investor Relations” section.

(1) Source: Gartner “Magic Quadrant for Managed Workplace Services, North America” by Daniel Barros, Helen Huntley, Karen A. Hobert, January 30, 2017. Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in its research publications, and does not advise technology users to select only those vendors with the highest ratings or other designation. Gartner research publications consist of the opinions of Gartner’s research organization and should not be construed as statements of fact. Gartner disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this research, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.

(2) Adjusted amounts represent non-GAAP measures and exclude charges or credits not indicative of core operations and the tax effect of these items, which may include but not be limited to merger integration, restructuring, acquisition, asset impairments and executive transition costs.

(3) The company’s preliminary third quarter results and full-year outlook in this release include non-GAAP financial measures such as Adjusted Operating Income and free cash flow may exclude charges or credits not indicative of core operations. Office Depot is unable to provide preliminary results for comparable GAAP measures such as operating income, net income or net cash provided by operating income for the third quarter without unreasonable efforts because the exact amount of these charges or credits are not currently determinable until the closing procedures for the quarter is complete, but may be significant. Accordingly, the company is unable to provide reconciliations from GAAP to non-GAAP for these financial measures without unreasonable effort, although it is important to note that these charges or credits could be material to Office Depot’s third quarter results in accordance with GAAP.

(4) Free cash flow is defined as net cash provided by operating activities less capital expenditures. Capital expenditures exclude the purchase of the company’s previously leased head office.

(5) The estimates reflect Office Depot’s preliminary unaudited estimates and views on market trends observed year to date for 2017 and are based on information available as of the date hereof. Actual results and estimates may differ materially from the estimates and trends described above due to developments or other information that may arise between now and the time the financial results for the third quarter or fiscal year are finalized. These preliminary results should not be viewed as a substitute for our third quarter interim unaudited consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP.

(6) Management of Office Depot believes that the presentation of non-GAAP financial measures such as Adjusted Operating Income and free cash flow enhances the ability of its investors to analyze trends in its business and provides a means to compare periods that may be affected by various items that might obscure trends or developments in its business. Non-GAAP measures help to evaluate programs and activities that are intended to attract and satisfy customers, separate from expenses and credits directly associated with merger, restructuring, and certain similar items. Our measurement of these non-GAAP financial measures may be different from similarly titled financial measures used by others and therefore may not be comparable. These non-GAAP financial measures should not be considered superior to the GAAP measures, but only to clarify some information and assist the reader.

About Office Depot, Inc.

Office Depot, Inc. is a leading provider of office supplies, business products and services delivered through an omnichannel platform.

The company had 2016 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.”

Office Depot is a trademark of The Office Club, Inc. OfficeMax is a trademark of OMX, Inc. ©2017 Office Depot, Inc. All rights reserved. Any other product or company names mentioned herein are the trademarks of their respective owners.

About CompuCom

CompuCom Systems, Inc., a global company headquartered in North America, provides IT managed services, infrastructure solutions, consulting and products to Fortune 1000 companies committed to enhancing their end users’ experience. Founded in 1987, privately held CompuCom employs approximately 11,500 associates. For more information, visit www.compucom.com.

About Thomas H. Lee Partners, L.P.

Thomas H. Lee Partners, L.P. (“THL”) is a premier private equity firm investing in middle market growth companies, headquartered in North America, exclusively in four industry sectors: Business & Financial Services, Consumer & Retail, Healthcare, and Media, Information Services & Technology. Using the firm’s deep domain expertise and the internal operating capabilities of its Strategic Resource Group, THL seeks to create deal sourcing advantages, and to accelerate growth and improve operations in its portfolio companies in partnership with management teams.

Since its founding in 1974, THL has raised over $22 billion of equity capital, acquired over 140 portfolio companies and completed over 360 add-on acquisitions which collectively represent a combined enterprise value at the time of acquisition of over $200 billion.

This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities. The securities offered and sold in the private placement have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or any state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration, or an applicable exemption from registration under the Securities Act and applicable state securities laws.

FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

This communication may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements or disclosures may discuss goals, intentions and expectations as to future trends, plans, events, results of operations, cash flow or financial condition, or state other information relating to, among other things, Office Depot, based on current beliefs and assumptions made by, and information currently available to, management. Forward-looking statements generally will be accompanied by words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “plan,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “forecast,” “guidance,” “outlook,” “intend,” “may,” “possible,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “propose” or other similar words, phrases or expressions, or other variations of such words. These forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties, many of which are outside of Office Depot’s control. There can be no assurances that Office Depot will realize these expectations or that these beliefs will prove correct, and therefore investors and stockholders should not place undue reliance on such statements.

Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements include, among other things, the ability to consummate the transaction between Office Depot and CompuCom pursuant to the terms and in accordance with the timing described in this press release, the risk that Office Depot may not be able to realize the anticipated benefits of the transaction due to unforeseen liabilities, future capital expenditures, expenses, indebtedness and the unanticipated loss of key customers or the inability to achieve expected revenues, synergies, cost savings or financial performance after the completion of the transaction with CompuCom, the risk that the refinancing of CompuCom’s outstanding debt is not obtained on favorable terms, uncertainty of the expected financial performance of Office Depot following the completion of the transaction, impact of weather events on Office Depot’s business, impacts and risks related to the termination of the attempted Staples acquisition, disruption in key business activities or any impact on Office Depot’s relationships with third parties as a result of the announcement of the termination of the Staples Merger Agreement; unanticipated changes in the markets for Office Depot’s business segments; the inability to realize expected benefits from the disposition of the European and other international operations; fluctuations in currency exchange rates, unanticipated downturns in business relationships with customers or terms with the company’s suppliers; competitive pressures on Office Depot’s sales and pricing; increases in the cost of material, energy and other production costs, or unexpected costs that cannot be recouped in product pricing; the introduction of competing technology products and services; unexpected technical or marketing difficulties; unexpected claims, charges, litigation, dispute resolutions or settlement expenses; new laws, tariffs and governmental regulations. The foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. Investors and stockholders should carefully consider the foregoing factors and the other risks and uncertainties described in Office Depot’s Annual Report on Form 10-K, as amended, and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Office Depot does not assume any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements.

Contact:
Richard Leland
561-438-3796
Investor Relations
Richard.Leland@officedepot.com 

AnneMarie Mathews
305-733-9744
Media Relations
AnneMarie.Mathews@officedepot.com

Source: Office Depot, Inc.

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Lowe’s Canada opens new Lowe’s Big Box model store in B.C.

Second new Lowe’s model opens today in B.C.

Boucherville, QC, 2017-Oct-06 — /EPR Retail News/ — Lowe’s Canada opened today (October 5, 2017) its second store under the new model of Lowe’s stores in Canada which offers an enhanced shopping experience. The store, located at 850 Langford Parkway, was converted from the former RONA Home and Garden. It was designed by taking the best of Lowe’s and RONA’s offering to create the new model of Lowe’s stores. The first converted store was in Edmonton North, Alberta.

“As we are actively pursuing the evolution of Lowe’s Big Box in Canada, we are happy to offer the Langford community a new shopping experience by taking the best of what both Lowe’s and RONA banners have to offer to create a new Lowe’s Big Box model,” says Guy Beaumier, Interim Executive Vice President, Lowe’s Canada Big Box Retail. “We spared no efforts in order to provide our customers enhanced offers in product, pricing, services and financing, including new features for our Contractor clientele.”

The store underwent an extensive 16-week physical transformation from the former RONA which involved construction, departmental sequencing of new racking and re-merchandising, branding and IT conversion, as well as a significant investment in our people with extensive training that is focused on new product knowledge and customer service

New Retail Experience

The new Langford Lowe’s will offer an enhanced retail experience including:

  • A wider assortment of Seasonal products such as Patio, Holiday and Halloween including the latest fashion trends
  • The introduction of entirely new product categories including Appliances, Lowe’s private labels, and top brands such as John Deere, Husqvarna, and Cub Cadet.
  • A broader selection of Fashion Plumbing products such as tubs, showers, toilets, vanities, sinks and faucets with the introduction of high profile brands such as Kohler and Grohe
  • Floor displays featuring the latest fashions in wood flooring and tiles with larger displays allowing customers to better visualize their projects and better experience the texture of flooring products.
  • Access to more than 100,000 products on www.lowes.ca.

Enhanced Contractor Experience

The new Langford location marks an enhanced shopping experience for Commercial customers, including:

  • The introduction of the Contractor Rewards Program (i.e. loyalty and pricing program)
  • Access to a drive through lumber yard where contractors can load their vehicles directly to save time, as well as have access to a broader lumber assortment.
  • The Langford store is the second Lowe’s store in Canada to introduce charge accounts that will allow Commercial customers to make purchases at any RONA Corporate store in Western Canada, as well as in new model Lowe’s stores. Customers will receive only ‘one’ monthly invoice for all purchases made from these stores.
  • Introduction of corporately owned and operated delivery truck to provide a more personalized level of service for deliveries to Contractors.
  • Enhanced assortment in key contractor categories including lumber, building materials, millwork, tools, hardware, etc

The new Langford Lowe’s marks the company’s 58th store in Canada under the Lowe’s banner and the banner’s second Lowe’s location in the Victoria market. The store represents a local investment in excess of $7.8 million and created 30 new jobs – in total the store employs 135 permanent positions with an additional 30 seasonal roles.

The store offers about 40,000 products in-stock to meet customers’ home improvement needs, and features retail offering space totaling 140,036 square feet, including 73,349 square feet of retail sales space, an adjacent Garden Centre of 28,315 square feet, a covered lumberyard of 24,155 square feet, and an additional outdoor drive thru lumberyard of 14,217 square feet.

Today, local dignitaries and Lowe’s executives joined employees from the store to celebrate the grand opening through an official board cutting ceremony and community grant presentation. Lowe’s donated $5,000 to Habitat for Humanity Victoria to support the Central Saanich Project beginning this Fall.

Grand Opening Events

Grand opening activities for the new store will continue throughout Monday where customers can enjoy free sessions, giveaways and contests including:

  • Children’s Workshop for families on Saturday, October 7th at 10:00 a.m.
  • Interactive autograph signing and Q&A session with HGTV’s Bryan Baeumler on Saturday, October 7th from 10am-12pm.
  • Giveaways including: Rayovac 6V Floating Flashlight + Rayovac Ready AA 8-Pack Batteries (first 75 customers only on Thursday); Sylvania A19 LED 60-Watt Light Bulb (first 1,000 customers Friday only); free Lowe’s $25 gift card (first 200 customers Saturday only) and a Bosch 32 pc. Screwdriver Bit Set (first 200 customers Sunday only).
  • Customers can also enter to win 1 of 4 Grand Prizes.
  • Contractor exclusive VIP event on Monday, October 9th from 12:00-2:00 p.m. There will be a draw to win 1 of 3 $250 Lowe’s gift cards and Contractors can fill out a ballot to win 1 of 4 Tool prizes. To register, Contractors can call the store at (250) 478-6680 and ask to speak with the Contractor Specialist to request an invite.

About Lowe’s Canada

Lowe’s Companies, Inc. (NYSE: LOW) is a FORTUNE® 50 home improvement company serving more than 17 million customers a week in the United States, Canada and Mexico. With fiscal year 2016 sales of $65.0 billion, Lowe’s and its related businesses operate or service more than 2,370 home improvement and hardware stores and employ over 290,000 people. Based in Boucherville, Quebec, Lowe’s Canadian business, together with its wholly owned subsidiary, RONA inc., operates or services more than 600 corporate and independent affiliate dealer stores in a number of complementary formats under different banners. These include Lowe’s, RONA, Réno-Dépôt, Marcil, Dick’s Lumber and Ace. In Canada, the companies have more than 25,000 employees, in addition to nearly 5,000 employees in the stores of RONA’s independent affiliate dealers. For more information, visit Lowes.ca.

For more information, please contact:

Valérie Gonzalo
Media Relations
Lowe’s Canada – RONA
Tel 514.626.6976
media@rona.ca

Source: Lowe’s Companies, Inc.

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Pantene Care Beyond Hair Tour at the ShopRite kicks off; people can donate their hair to benefit women with cancer

Keasbey, NJ, 2017-Oct-06 — /EPR Retail News/ — ShopRite is partnering with Pantene® for its Care Beyond Hair Tour, exclusively at ShopRite, to donate hair and raise funds for Pantene Beautiful Lengths Fund, a program created in partnership with the American Cancer Society to provide free, real-hair wigs to women who have lost their hair due to cancer treatment. From Oct. 3 – Nov. 16, the Care Beyond Hair Tour will make stops at close to 40 ShopRite stores throughout New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania, offering a way for people to share their strength and donate their hair to the Beautiful Lengths Fund.

Each tour stop will feature a pop-up styling station staffed with an onsite beautician, allowing girls, women and men to donate their hair for the creation of real-hair wigs that will be distributed to women battling cancer, with the goal of 200 haircuts to create 25 wigs. For every hair donation, Pantene will pledge an additional $50 to the Pantene Beautiful Lengths Fund, up to $10,000.

Campaign ambassador Tiki Barber officially kicked off the Pantene Care Beyond Hair Tour at the ShopRite of Greater Morristown on Tuesday, Oct. 3, sharing his personal experiences in dealing with his mother’s breast cancer battle and encouraging donations to the campaign.

“We are honored to partner with Pantene for the Care Beyond Hair Tour,” said Cathy Magistrelli, vice president of health and beauty care at ShopRite. “ShopRite is committed to giving back and supporting key causes, and we understand the great physical and emotional toll cancer takes on women battling the disease. With support from our generous customers and great team of associates, we hope that we can make a difference through this campaign to create real-hair wigs for people fighting cancer.

The Beautiful Lengths Fund was started in 2006 with the goal of making it simple and possible for women everywhere to share their hair with women who have lost theirs during cancer treatment. Since the program’s inception, 46,000 real-hair wigs have been donated to the national American Cancer Society Wig Bank, helping serve those in need every single day. ShopRite customers who donated their hair at the ShopRite of Greater Morristown posed for a photo, right, with retired football player and star running back Tiki Barber.

“We’re so thankful to ShopRite for its support of the Pantene Beautiful Lengths Fund through our partnership for Care Beyond Hair” said Robert Stetts, marketing manager with P&G. “This program allows us to help women going through grueling cancer treatments to feel a little bit more like themselves every day and inspire the confidence needed to keep fighting. We are so grateful to our generous donors who continue to make the creation of these wigs possible, and we look forward to successful campaign for a great cause.”

For more information about the Care Beyond Hair Tour, including a full list of participating ShopRite stores, and the date and time of each event and hair donation requirements, please visit ShopRite.com/CareBeyondHair.

For those unable to donate hair but still interested in supporting the cause, The Pantene Beautiful Lengths Fund, created in 2014 in partnership with The Greater Cincinnati Foundation, accepts monetary donations, allowing anyone to support the Pantene Beautiful Lengths program. Contributions made to the Pantene Beautiful Lengths Fund go directly to helping create free, real-hair wigs for women battling cancer. To make a monetary donation, go to www.gcfdn.org/pantene.

About ShopRite
ShopRite is the registered trademark of Wakefern Food Corp., a retailer-owned cooperative based in Keasbey, NJ, and the largest supermarket cooperative in the United States. With more than 270 ShopRite supermarkets located throughout New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Delaware and Maryland, ShopRite serves more than six million customers each week. A long-time supporter of key community efforts, ShopRite is dedicated to fighting hunger in the communities it serves. Through its ShopRite Partners In Caring program, ShopRite has donated $40 million to 2,000 worthy charities and food banks since the program began in 1999. As a title sponsor of the LPGA’s ShopRite Classic, ShopRite has raised more than $30 million for local organizations, hospitals and community groups. For more information, please visit www.shoprite.com.

Source: ShopRite

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Bloomingdale’s hosts Pink Campaign in support of breast cancer awareness and treatment this month of October

New York, NY, 2017-Oct-06 — /EPR Retail News/ — For the 13th year, Bloomingdale’s continues its commitment to support breast cancer awareness and treatment during the month of October. This year, the retailer again invites shoppers to participate in the cause with exclusive products and events promoting good health and wellness in support of the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF), The Carey Foundation and the Marisa Acocella Marchetto Foundation.

“Each year Bloomingdale’s feels privileged to unveil our Pink Campaign in support of our longstanding partners the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, The Carey Foundation and the Marissa Acocella Marchetto Foundation and this year is no different,” said Tony Spring, Bloomingdale’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “Alongside our loyal shoppers we provide support to these crucial organizations making substantial progress toward discovering a cure and improving the lives of breast cancer fighters, survivors and their families.”

COLLAB FOR A CURE

Donald Robertson x Bloomingdale’s – For the third consecutive year, Bloomingdale’s has partnered with world renowned career artist Donald Robertson for this year’s Breast Cancer Awareness campaign. To support the cause, Bloomingdale’s worked with Robertson to customize a S¿well waterbottle with a signature design titled “Karma in Bloom”. The water bottle is sold exclusively at Bloomingdale’s stores and online for $35 with $19 from each sale donated to the BCRF. Robertson’s artwork will also cover the Third Avenue façade of the Bloomingdale’s 59th Street store throughout the month of October.

SHOP PINK

Give Pink, Get More – Bloomingdale’s card holders will have the opportunity to opt into this annual feel-good program. Enroll in the program by charging a $15 fee on your Bloomingdale’s Credit Card, 100% of which will fund research, support and awareness programs for our charity partners. From 9/27-10/31, spend $250 or more in store at Bloomingdale’s or on bloomingdales.com using your Bloomingdale’s Credit Card and based on the amount you spend, you’ll be mailed a gift card worth up to $250 to use at any Bloomingdale’s location or online.

The Little Pink Card – It’s the gift card that keeps on giving! Bloomingdale¿s donates 10% of the value on your Little Pink Card, plus 10% of purchases made with this card above the original amount, to Bloomingdale’s charity partners. Donations will be on cards purchased 9/14 ¿ 10/31 and redeemed in stores by 12/31.

CELEBRATE PINK

Pink Yoga – Shoppers are invited to their nearest Bloomingdale’s location on Saturday, October 7th to kick off Bloomingdale’s Pink Campaign with a morning yoga class in partnership with Spiritual Gangster. The yoga classes will be taught by notable yoga instructors from around the country. A reservation fee of $10 will benefit the Marisa Acocella Marchetto Foundation and The Carey Foundation which support survivors and their families with cancer related costs such as transportation, child care and proper treatment. Attendees will receive a branded yoga mat and Pink gift bag just for attending. To reserve a mat, visit bloomingdalesyoga.eventbrite.com.

POWER IN PINK

Last year, Bloomingdale’s donated more than $1.4 million to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, The Carey Foundation and the Marisa Acocella Marchetto Foundation. The retailer is proud to continue supporting their exciting new initiatives. Through a BCRF grant, Bloomingdale’s helps fund five researchers focused on breast cancer prevention and treatment- Dr.Joan S. Brugge, Professor of Cell Biology and Director of the Ludwig Center at Harvard Medical School, Dr.Andrew J Dannenberg, Professor of Medicine at Weill Cornell Medical College and Director of Weill Cornell Cancer Center, Dr.Titia de Lange, Professor and the Head of Laboratory of Cell Biology and Genetics at The Rockefeller University, Dr.Marc Lippman Professor of Medicine, Deputy Director of Sylvester Cancer Center at the University of Miami and Dr.Michael Press, Professor of Pathology and Chair of Cancer Research at University of Southern California.

Bloomingdale’s also supports the work of the Carey Foundation and the Marisa Acocella Marchetto Foundation. The Carey Foundation is a nonprofit that raises funds for women, men and their families to ease the financial burdens that come with a breast cancer diagnosis. The Tutu Project releases grants twice a year to create lasting bonds between its initiative and like-minded organizations. The Marisa Acocella Marchetto Foundation is a non-profit that funds treatments and services for uninsured and underinsured women with breast cancer. The Marisa Acocella Empowerment Program, made possible through a grant from Bloomingdale’s, funds innovative holistic care, cold-capping services, nutrition classes and more.

THE FLAGSHIP GOES PINK

The Bloomingdale’s 59th Street flagship will honor Breast Cancer Awareness throughout the month of October. The Lexington Avenue façade of the building will be lit in pink as a beacon of support to breast cancer awareness. To celebrate the fifth anniversary of the Tutu Project, the Lexington Avenue windows will display of a retrospective of Bob Carey’s photographs from throughout the years. A gallery of his work will also be on display in the arcade area. Throughout the month, the flagship will also host events to raise awareness and funds for the cause.

Customer Service: 1-800-777-0000

Source: Bloomingdale

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Bloomingdale’s launches new makeup and skincare boutique Glowhaus

New York, NY, 2017-Oct-06 — /EPR Retail News/ — Bloomingdale’s is bringing a new beauty space to their shoppers with the launch of Glowhaus. This new makeup and skincare boutique, packed with niche beauty brands, will open hard-shops in five Bloomingdale’s locations including Roosevelt Field (NY), San Francisco (CA), Sherman Oaks (CA), Soho (NY) and South Coast Plaza (CA) on August 30th. Beauty lovers across the country can also experience the obsession-worthy makeup and skincare finds that Glowhaus has to offer by visiting the online shop at bloomingdales.com/glowhaus.

Glowhaus is a space for the beauty-obsessed shopper to browse, discover and play. The shop is a beauty happy place that gives customers access to the top trending looks and latest must-have products- from makeup to masks. The brand-agnostic staff will offer guidance to those who need it but give space to those who prefer to browse on their own.

“We are thrilled to launch Glowhaus at Bloomingdale’s,” says Stacie Borteck, Bloomingdale’s Vice President and DMM of Cosmetics. “This beauty space not only brings a new round-up of trend-setting vendors and products to our customer but also gives her a new environment to shop, discover and play.”

Glowhaus brings over 30 new brands and around 800 products to the Bloomingdale’s girl. This includes some of the best products from brands she already loves to amazing finds from new ones she needs to know. Everything in the shop is under $100. The price point and vendor offering caters to the millennial minded shopper. Over half of the assortment is dominated by color from brands like Beauty Blender, Context Skin, CoverFX, Flirt!, Kosas, Lash Star Beauty, Lime Crime, NudeStix, RMS Beauty, Rouge Bunny Rouge, Suva Beauty and The BrowGal. Bloomingdale’s is also introducing their own line of eye palettes, only available at Glowhaus. Skincare brands like Frank Body, GlamGlow, Grown Alchemist, Mario Badescu, Saturday Skin and Supergoop also have a large presence. A special section of the shop called ¿Grab and Glow¿ is home to novelty beauty products and tools from brands like Bio-Republic, Ciate, Kaprielle, Deborah Lippman, Lano, LIT Cosmetics, Makeup Drop, Makeup Eraser, Patchology, Preheels, Sigma Beauty, Tweeezerman, Vamp Stamp and Winky Lux. Haircare products from Drybar and fragrances from Bon Perfumeur are also be available in the shops.

The majority of the Glowhaus shops live on the retailers’ women’s ready-to-wear floors adjacent to the clothing brands that align with the shopping habits of the millennial minded customer. This location gives the Glowhaus girl a fresh environment to shop cosmetics in and encourages a cross-shopping experience, allowing her to truly create a head to toe look. Product is housed in a playful, open sell environment that makes it easy for shoppers to try on products and customize their own looks while mixing and matching brands. Each shop features a play station made up of a large table surrounded by chairs with suspended mirrors. This play area allows the shopper to mix products from her favorite brands and try them on herself or with the help of a Glowhaus make-up artist. Grab and Glow stations are stocked with mini best sellers and one-sku wonders. These are items that are trending on social media and in some cases, products that the Bloomingdale’s girl can’t find anywhere else. The station will continually be refreshed with of-the-moment items rotating in and out. A portion of the shop is also dedicated to gift sets from a variety of vendors. The focal point is a giant feature wall which highlights products that are best in glow using compelling video content and focusing on a new trend each month starting with metallic lips and moving on to pops of color and highlighter layering. Glowhaus will also have an outpost on the cosmetics floor featuring key products from a variety of brands, giving customers a sneak peek of what they can find upstairs.

Glowhaus associates are extremely knowledgeable about the wide-scope of products and brands offered in the shop. They are fun, vibrant and true sources of inspiration, appealing to a millennial minded customer. The brand agnostic associates will be dedicated to meeting the individual needs of shoppers and will focus on providing the level of service and engagement that the customer is looking for. Glowhaus shops will be equipped with technology to enable and enhance the customer experience. Sellers will use iPads to access product information about each vendor and a video screen will feature trend tutorials.

In addition to having an in-store presence, Glowhaus also lives on bloomingdales.com. The Glowhaus digital hub, which fully launches in October, will be packed with rich imagery and engaging content. The site will have a mood-board feel and all of the images and videos will be filtered into categories. The mix of content will include featured looks created by models and influencers, product shots and mood videos.

To give customers a taste of the exciting and sought-after brands that Glowhaus has to offer, the shop will launch a choice sampling program. For every $50 spent in Glowhaus, customers can choose 1 out of 4 deluxe samples. Samples options will change each season so the Bloomingdale¿s girl can continue to discover new brands and products.

Throughout the year, Glowhaus will be home to engaging, multi-branded events. The first event kicks off on Saturday, September 9 with the Glowhaus ReTreat. Shoppers will get their first taste of the Glowhaus experience with mini-treatments from the brands, special gifts with purchase and Instagram-worthy treats.

Customer Service: 1-800-777-0000

Source: Bloomingdale

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McDonald’s brings back limited-edition Szechuan Sauce and poster to select restaurants on Saturday, October 7 ONLY

Limited-edition poster and sauce will come to select restaurants on Saturday, October 7 only

OAK BROOK, IL, 2017-Oct-06 — /EPR Retail News/ — After listening to customers’ enthusiasm for Szechuan Sauce over the past few months, McDonald’s (NYSE: MCD) has revealed the final addition to its gig-style poster lineup designed by artists from Delicious Design League. For the most obsauced fans, McDonald’s even produced small batches of Szechuan Sauce dipping packets. The savory and slightly sweet sauce with hints of soy, ginger, garlic, and slight vinegar notes will be available, along with limited-edition posters, at participating restaurants on Saturday, October 7.

Last week, McDonald’s unveiled nine limited-edition, dipping sauce-themed posters to introduce the new Buttermilk Crispy Tenders made with 100 percent white meat chicken and no artificial flavors, colors or preservatives, seasoned, battered and breaded to perfection. Each custom, screen-printed poster allows customers to showcase their sauce passions for Creamy Ranch, Honey, Honey Mustard, Hot Mustard, Spicy Buffalo, Sriracha Mac Sauce, Sweet ‘n Sour, Tangy Barbeque and the new Signature Sauce. However, the collection wouldn’t be complete without the restaurant’s most talked about sauce, Szechuan Sauce.

“Guys, we did it. After returning with the Szechuan Sauce from the always-1998 dimension, C-1998M, we did some science and now we have a bit more sauce! Technology is amazing. But delivering for our customers is even better,” said McDonald’s Chef Michael Haracz. “I can’t wait for fans to taste the savory, sweet flavor of Szechuan Sauce paired with our new Buttermilk Crispy Tenders. It’s a great moment for McDonald’s and our fans that I’m definitely not taking for granite.”

Customers will have the chance to receive their favorite limited-edition sauce poster, including a Szechuan Sauce poster, with the purchase of Buttermilk Crispy Tenders at participating McDonald’s restaurants on Saturday, October 7, beginning at 2 p.m. local time while supplies last. Select restaurants will also have limited quantities of Szechuan Sauce dipping packets while supplies last. Limited-edition stickers of the poster designs will also be available when the collectible posters and sauces run out.

A full list of the nearly 1,000 participating McDonald’s restaurants and more details surrounding the posters and Szechuan Sauce giveaway on Saturday, October 7 can be found at www.buttermilkcrispytenders.com.

Fans are encouraged to show their sauce love using #ButtermilkCrispyTenders.
Buttermilk Crispy Tenders became available nationwide at participating McDonald’s restaurants on September 27 and are sold for $3.79-$3.99 for a 4-piece serving.

About McDonald’s USA
McDonald’s USA, LLC, serves a variety of menu options made with quality ingredients to more than 25 million customers every day. Nearly 90 percent of McDonald’s 14,000 U.S. restaurants are independently owned and operated by businessmen and women. Customers can now log online for free at approximately 11,500 participating Wi-Fi enabled McDonald’s U.S. restaurants. For more information, visit www.mcdonalds.com, or follow us on Twitter @McDonalds and Facebook www.facebook.com/McDonaldsUS/.

Source: McDonald’s USA

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Ben & Jerry’s to implement worker-driven Milk with Dignity Program in its Northeast dairy supply chain

Ben & Jerry’s to implement worker-driven Milk with Dignity Program in its Northeast dairy supply chain

 

Burlington, VT, 2017-Oct-06 — /EPR Retail News/ — Ben & Jerry’s and Migrant Justice have reached an historic agreement to implement the worker-driven Milk with Dignity (MD) Program in Ben & Jerry’s Northeast dairy supply chain. Over the past two years, the parties have worked tirelessly to accomplish their shared goal to bring together farmworkers, farmers, and dairy buyers to ensure just and dignified working conditions in Ben & Jerry’s northeast dairy supply chain. Now, farmworkers and Ben & Jerry’s are ready to go, pivoting to a new partnership to implement this groundbreaking, worker-led initiative. Work will begin this fall on a multi-year plan with the goal of eventually sourcing 100% of Ben & Jerry’s milk through the MD Program and a holistic dairy program that addresses all key aspects of dairy farming.

Migrant Justice’s Milk with Dignity Program, modeled after the world-renowned Fair Food Program, enlists the resources of food industry leaders, such as Ben & Jerry’s, to provide a premium for dairy ingredients to participating farmers who agree to work towards compliance with the labor standards in the Milk with Dignity Code of Conduct. The premium paid to farmers helps offset farms’ costs of compliance with the Code, rewards farms that comply, and allows farmers to pass-through a portion of the premium as a bonus paid to workers. In the Milk with Dignity Program, compliance on the farm is achieved through a unique partnership and problem-solving approach among farmers, farmworkers, and the Milk with Dignity Standards Council (MDSC). The MDSC is an independent non-profit that works with farmers and farmworkers to understand, participate in, and achieve compliance with labor standards in the Code.

A group of farmworkers, supporters and Ben & Jerry’s employees stood outside the company’s flagship store on Vermont’s iconic Church Street, where farmworker organizer and former dairy worker Enrique Balcazar shared, “This is an historic day for dairy workers. We have worked tirelessly to get here, and now, we move forward towards a new day for us dairy workers. This is a huge step forward for us and for all workers and we appreciate that Ben & Jerry’s has taken a leadership role to source its milk in a way that improves working and housing conditions on dairy farms.”

“This is a ground breaking, historic moment not only for two organizations, but most importantly for the hard working dairy farm workers who are a critical part of our community.” Solheim acknowledged how key the farmers and cooperative are to making the next steps of program implementation possible, sharing that this program will result in a win-win for all involved. “Vermont’s farmers can continue to set the tone for the dairy industry. Today, whether it is for animal care, environmentally sound operations, and now, enhanced labor practices, Vermont’s farming community will continue to lead the nation. We are proud of our partnership with the St. Albans Cooperative and these farmers have our full commitment. We recognize the many challenges facing the Vermont dairy farmers today, and we need to do what we can collectively to support the farmers moving forward. We can’t do this without them.”

Both organizations put pen to paper at the Ben & Jerry’s scoop shop in their shared hometown of Burlington, Vermont. The plan now is to put the buyer’s agreement into practice by recruiting farmers from St. Albans Cooperative to join the Program as soon as possible. Ben & Jerry’s has committed to work towards the goal of sourcing 100% of its dairy ingredients through the Milk with Dignity Program over a period of years. Moving forward, The MD Program will be one of the focused “pillars” of Ben & Jerry’s new dairy sourcing to address the full farm ecosystem.

For more information about Migrant Justice, Milk with Dignity, or Ben & Jerry’s follow the links below:

Migrant Justice: http://migrantjustice.net/

Milk with Dignity: https://migrantjustice.net/milk-with-dignity

Ben & Jerry’s: www.benjerry.com/

About Migrant Justice

Our mission is to build the voice, capacity, and power of the farmworker community and engage community partners to organize for economic justice and human rights. We gather the farmworker community to discuss and analyze shared problems and to envision collective solutions. Through this ongoing investment in leadership development, members deepen their skills in community education and organizing for long-term systemic change. From this basis our members have defined community problems as a denial of rights and dignity and have prioritized building a movement to secure these fundamental human rights to: 1) Dignified Work and Quality Housing; 2) Freedom of Movement and Access to Transportation; 3) Freedom from discrimination; 4) Access to Health Care.

About Ben & Jerry’s

As an aspiring social justice company, Ben & Jerry’s believes in a greater calling than simply making a profit for selling its goods. The company produces a wide variety of super-premium ice cream, yogurt and sorbet using high-quality ingredients. Ben & Jerry’s incorporates its vision of Linked Prosperity into its business practices in a number of ways including a focus on values-led sourcing. In 2015 the company completed its transition to using entirely non-GMO (genetically modified organisms) ingredients by source as well as to fully source Fairtrade-certified ingredients wherever possible, which benefits farmers in developing countries. Ben and Jerry’s products are distributed in 35 countries in supermarkets, grocery stores, convenience stores, franchise Ben & Jerry’s Scoop Shops, restaurants and other venues. Ben & Jerry’s, a Vermont corporation and wholly-owned subsidiary of Unilever, operates its business on a three-part Mission Statement emphasizing product quality, economic reward and a commitment to the community. Ben & Jerry’s became a certified B Corp (Benefit Corporation) in 2012. The Ben & Jerry’s Foundation’s employee-led grant programs totaled $2.5MM in 2016 to support economic and social justice, environmental restoration, and peace through understanding. For the inside scoop on Ben & Jerry’s visit www.benjerry.com.

Contact:
Laura Peterson
Public Relations Manager
802 923-2679
laura.peterson@benjerry.com

Sean Greenwood
PR Director
802 233-0840
sean.greenwood@benjerry.com

MIGRANT JUSTICE:
Will Lambek
802 321-8393
will@migrantjustice.net

Brendan O’Neill
802 825-1609
brendan@migrantjustice.net

Source: BEN & JERRY’S

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BJ’s Restaurants celebrates its world-famous Pizookie® dessert this October

HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif., 2017-Oct-06 — /EPR Retail News/ — BJ’s Restaurants, Inc.(NASDAQ:BJRI) is making October a little sweeter by celebrating its world-famous Pizookie® dessert all month long. BJ’s is kicking off the festivities today, Oct. 2, with Free Pizookie® Day. All day long, guests will receive a free Pizookie® with a minimum $9.95 food purchase.

Often imitated, but never duplicated, BJ’s world-famous Pizookie® is a hot-out-of-the-oven cookie served in its own deep dish pan and topped with two scoops of ice cream. Each dessert is baked to order, and guests can choose from nine flavors: chocolate chunk, cookies ‘n’ cream, salted caramel, white chocolate macadamia nut, triple chocolate, monkey bread, peanut butter, peanut butter s’mores or gluten-free chocolate chip.

The brand also announced the launch of a nationwide promotion featuring $3 Pizookie® desserts through Oct. 15 with no minimum purchase required. The offer is available at all BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse® locations.

“BJ’s is cutting the price in more than half to give everyone an opportunity to try a Pizookie® dessert,” said Greg Trojan, President and CEO of BJ’s Restaurants, Inc. “It may sound bold, but we believe you haven’t lived until you’ve tried a Pizookie®. It’s life changing.”

About BJ’s Restaurants, Inc.
BJ’s Restaurants, Inc. currently owns and operates 195 casual dining restaurants under the BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse®, BJ’s Restaurant & Brewery®, BJ’s Pizza & Grill® and BJ’s Grill® brand names. BJ’s Restaurants offer an innovative and broad menu featuring award-winning, signature deep dish pizza complemented with generously portioned salads, appetizers, sandwiches, soups, pastas, entrees and desserts, including the Pizookie® dessert. Quality, flavor, value, moderate prices and sincere service remain distinct attributes of the BJ’s experience.  All restaurants feature BJ’s critically acclaimed proprietary craft beers, which are produced at several of the Company’s Restaurant & Brewery locations, its two brewpubs in Texas and by independent third party craft brewers.

The Company’s restaurants are located in the 25 states of Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia and Washington. Visit BJ’s Restaurants, Inc. on the Web at http://www.bjsrestaurants.com for locations and additional information.

Media Contact: 
Lauren Hendeles
lauren@hendelcontent.com 
602-750-5934

Source: BJ’s Restaurants, Inc./globenewswire

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Health care organizations come together to expand safe medication disposal program to 1,500 Walgreens stores nationwide

Goal set to collect 300 tons of unwanted medications over next two years

DEERFIELD, Ill., 2017-Oct-06 — /EPR Retail News/ — Leading health care organizations AmerisourceBergen, Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, Pfizer and Prime Therapeutics are joining Walgreens to combat the national opioid abuse crisis by expanding the availability of safe medication disposal kiosks to an additional 900 Walgreens stores near military bases and other areas where the opioid epidemic has challenged communities. When the expansion is complete, kiosks will be available in approximately 1,500 Walgreens stores nationwide.

In the midst of the opioid epidemic, military members have emerged as a particularly vulnerable population. By expanding the focus to serve military communities, the organizations aim to help curb the misuse of medications that, according to the National Institute of Drug Abuse, is higher among service members than civilians. Through the safe medication disposal kiosks, military communities will now have access to a safe way to dispose of their unwanted or unused prescription medications.

The announcement builds upon the initial 600 safe medication disposal kiosks Walgreens installed beginning in 2016 across 45 states and the District of Columbia. Those kiosks have collected 155 tons of unwanted medications in the first 18 months of the program. With this expansion, the organizations have set a goal to collect an additional 300 tons of unwanted medication in the next two years.

“We are proud to work with organizations from throughout the health care community to make it even easier for people to dispose of their unwanted medications,” said Alex Gourlay, president of Walgreens. “Since launching this program in 2016, we have been truly inspired by the response of the safe medication disposal program from communities around the country. The expansion of this program is a great example of health care organizations coming together in collaboration to address a real health crisis facing the country.”

“As a supply chain partner, we are committed to finding comprehensive solutions to mitigate the opioid epidemic impacting our communities, and we understand the important role we play in helping to combat medication diversion and abuse,” said Bob Mauch, Executive Vice President & Group President, Pharmaceutical Distribution & Strategic Global Sourcing for AmerisourceBergen. “Innovation and collaboration between all parties involved in the delivery and regulation of health care will drive the greatest progress in impacting the opioid crisis, and the diverse partnership supporting the expansion of Walgreens highly successful safe medication disposal program is a strong example of the type of collaboration that’s needed.”

“Blue Cross Blue Shield Association (BCBSA) is proud to support this critical and timely initiative so that more communities across the country will have access to safe medication disposal,” said Kim Holland, vice president of state affairs for BCBSA. “Prescription medications that sit in home medicine cabinets pose a potential safety threat to family members and can be highly susceptible to diversion and misuse. With the escalating opioid crisis, it’s more important than ever to invest in initiatives that focus on prevention and help keep loved ones and communities safe.”

“Pfizer is committed to addressing the prevention, treatment, and effective response to the growing opioid abuse in our country. This partnership reaffirms our support for measures that promote the proper and safe disposal of unwanted medicines to deter prescription drug diversion and to protect the environment,” said Pfizer’s Executive Vice President and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Freda Lewis-Hall.

A recent survey conducted by Prime revealed people taking opioids may not know how to safely dispose of unused medications. Only 17 percent had spoken with their doctor about safe disposal of unused medicine. Additionally, nearly a quarter of adults keep unused opioids instead of disposing of them, and only 27 percent of those who dispose of old medicine use a take back program to safely dispose of controlled substances. This data reveals there is a need to encourage safe disposal and that more take back locations is one way to promote safety.

“This crisis calls for an all-hands-on-deck approach,” said Jonathan Gavras, senior vice president and chief medical officer, Prime Therapeutics. “Prime is proud to be sponsoring this take back kiosk initiative – as an extension of Prime’s existing Controlled Substances Management Program – because we not only need to monitor for appropriate use, we need to make sure these dangerous medicines don’t fall into the wrong hands. We encourage everyone to go through their medicine cabinets and drop their unwanted medicines safely into a nearby Walgreens kiosk.”

Helping to achieve the goal to collect 300 additional tons of unwanted medication in two years is the #ItEndsWithUs campaign, recently launched by Walgreens to educate teens on the opioid epidemic. The campaign provides teens with online resources to end the opioid epidemic and positive steps they can take within their communities, including how to dispose of unwanted medications. The 900 additional kiosks will be installed over the next 10 months.

Safe medication disposal kiosks allow individuals to safely and conveniently dispose of their unwanted, unused or expired prescriptions, including controlled substances, and over-the-counter medications, at no cost. The kiosks at Walgreens pharmacies are available during regular pharmacy hours and offer one of the best ways to ensure medications are not accidentally used or intentionally misused by someone else.

About Walgreens

Walgreens (www.walgreens.com), one of the nation’s largest drugstore chains, is included in the Retail Pharmacy USA Division of Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. (NASDAQ: WBA), the first global pharmacy-led, health and wellbeing enterprise. More than 10 million customers interact with Walgreens each day in communities across America, using the most convenient, multichannel access to consumer goods and services and trusted, cost-effective pharmacy, health and wellness services and advice. Walgreens operates 8,175 drugstores with a presence in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, along with its omnichannel business, Walgreens.com. Approximately 400 Walgreens stores offer Healthcare Clinic or other provider retail clinic services.

About AmerisourceBergen

AmerisourceBergen provides pharmaceutical products, value-driving services and business solutions that improve access to care. Tens of thousands of healthcare providers, veterinary practices and livestock producers trust us as their partner in the pharmaceutical supply chain. Global pharmaceutical manufacturers depend on us for services that drive commercial success for their products. Powered by our 20,000 associates, we are united in our responsibility to create healthier futures. AmerisourceBergen is ranked #11 on the Fortune 500, with more than $146 billion in annual revenue. The company is headquartered in Valley Forge, Pa. and has a presence in 50+ countries. Learn more at amerisourcebergen.com

About Blue Cross Blue Shield Association

The Blue Cross Blue Shield Association is a national federation of 36 independent, community-based and locally operated Blue Cross and Blue Shield companies that collectively provide health care coverage for one in three Americans. BCBSA provides health care insights through The Health of America Report series and the national BCBS Health Indexsm. For more information on BCBSA and its member companies, please visit BCBS.com. We also encourage you to connect with us on Facebook, check out our videos on YouTube, follow us on Twitter and check out our blog.

About Pfizer Working together for a healthier world®

At Pfizer, we apply science and our global resources to bring therapies to people that extend and significantly improve their lives. We strive to set the standard for quality, safety and value in the discovery, development and manufacture of health care products. Our global portfolio includes medicines and vaccines as well as many of the world’s best-known consumer health care products. Every day, Pfizer colleagues work across developed and emerging markets to advance wellness, prevention, treatments and cures that challenge the most feared diseases of our time. Consistent with our responsibility as one of the world’s premier innovative biopharmaceutical companies, we collaborate with health care providers, governments and local communities to support and expand access to reliable, affordable health care around the world. For more than 150 years, we have worked to make a difference for all who rely on us. We routinely post information that may be important to investors on our website at www.pfizer.com. In addition, to learn more, please visit us on www.pfizer.com and follow us on Twitter at @Pfizer and @Pfizer_News, LinkedIn, YouTube and like us on Facebook at Facebook.com/Pfizer.

About Prime Therapeutics

Prime Therapeutics LLC (Prime) helps people get the medicine they need to feel better and live well. Prime manages pharmacy benefits for health plans, employers, and government programs including Medicare and Medicaid. The company processes claims and delivers medicine to members, offering clinical services for people with complex medical conditions. Prime serves more than 20 million people. It is collectively owned by 18 Blue Cross and Blue Shield Plans, subsidiaries or affiliates of those plans. For more information, visit www.primetherapeutics.com or follow  on Twitter.

Contact(s):

Phil Caruso
847-315-2962
philip.caruso@walgreens.com

Source: Walgreens