Category Archives: Equipment

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RCH Group Cements its International Reach

RCH Group’s New German Headquarters for international strategy and market-specific TSE compliance

New German Headquarters for international strategy and market-specific TSE compliance

TREVISO, Italy, 2020-Jul-29 — /EPR Retail News/ — RCH Group SpA, leading provider of retail and restaurant POS solutions, announces the launch of RCH Germany based in Saarbrucken, Saarland Lander. Expanding upon the existing presence of RCH in the international markets, this new base will augment RCH’s operations in the German and Austrian Countries, as well as beyond.

RCH Group designs, manufactures and sells telematic recorders, fiscal printers, and POS (Point of Sale) hardware and software. Their products, all designed in Italy, are recognised in several markets for their advanced technology, intelligent design and ease of use.

As RCH continues to expand, they are committed to being able to provide country-specific support to regions where they are securing increasingly significant market share. Germany constitutes one such market – particularly in light of RCH’s growing provision of solutions which meet the recently implemented TSE fiscal reporting legislation. More than merely serving the German market though, the expansion of RCH in Germany is a step towards strengthening and growing the company’s customer portfolio across the continent.

By opening a new headquarters in Saarbrucken, RCH is able to keep its finger even closer to the pulse of market needs; particularly in the field of catering, restaurants and food and beverage service. RCH’s product offerings in this field help to not only ensure that businesses are TSE compliant, but also offer a host of benefits which can bring genuine competitive advantages to their users; providing levels of data analysis capable of completely revolutionising the entire supply chain process: from menu design and purchase, to stock control, Customer Relationship Management (CRM), full financial/tax compliance, and beyond.

This means that because of the exceptional value offered by RCH products, even small, single unit businesses can benefit from levels of commercial insight previously only available to large scale operations. However, by virtue of its cloud-based approach to information management and third party integrability, RCH systems are also ideal for coordinating the activities of large-scale, multi-outlet restaurants and retail businesses. RCH products are truly capable of catering to the full spectrum of operators.

“This is an exciting time for RCH Group and marks an important milestone for our company as we further expand our presence in the heart of Europe,” says Stefano De Pra, CEO of the company. “The German market is particularly suited to the nature of RCH products, which places a focus not only on technological innovation and intuitive user experience, but also pays heavy attention to solidity, style and aesthetics”.

This expansion has been possible due to the exceptional performance that RCH secured in the period of 2019-2020, seeing the launch of a number of new products across a range of new geographical markets, as well as the formation of a collaboration with Jeunes Restaurateurs d’Europe (JRE) – whose slogan of ‘endless passion’ echoes the mindset of RCH themselves.

This growing demand for RCH products and their increased recognition in the industry, combined with the need for centralized operations to manage all regional distribution and after-sales technical support, led RCH to choose Germany as a complimentary operational and strategic base to its existing offices in Treviso.

More information about RCH Group and RCH Germany is available at http://www.rch-group.com and http://www.rch-europe.de

About RCH Group

The RCH Group of companies offers advanced point of sale systems for the retail, food and beverage, entertainment, hospitality and franchising markets.The Group’s innovative products include cash registers, automatic cash desks and cloud-based back office services.

Founded in 1969, RCH Group has grown into a global organization, comprising of several companies with a presence in 40 countries worldwide. It is renowned for its successful combination of advanced product engineering with distinctive design. Headquartered in Northern Italy, RCH Group has operational offices in Austria, Vietnam, China, and Asia, as well as a vast network of partner resellers.

RCH Contact:

Nicola Cassoli

Director Marketing & Sales Italy

T. +39 0422365255

E. n.cassoli@rch.it

RCH Germany Contact:

info@rch-europe.de

T.+49 0681 9677 8752

Press Contact:

Fiorenza Mella

Xpresso Communications              

T. +31 715238210

E.: fiorenza@xpressocommunications.com

Logo:

RCH logo

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REI Co-op to support outdoor leaders in the second-ever “Confluence Summit” in Asheville this July

Co-op continues work to unite diverse stakeholders from across the country to help shape future of life outdoors

Kent, Wash., 2018-Feb-22 — /EPR Retail News/ — Earlier today (02.20.2018), the State of North Carolina announced its intention to host the second-ever “Confluence Summit” for state-level outdoor recreation leaders in Asheville this July. There are currently eight states – Colorado, Montana, North Carolina, Oregon, Utah, Vermont, Washington and Wyoming – with an office, director or task force dedicated to the well-being of the outdoor recreation industry and to greater public access to outdoor experiences.

To assure robust participation from across the country, the REI Co-op has committed to fund travel for these outdoor leaders, and their delegations, who are developing a multi-state vision for connecting Americans with the outdoors.

“Gatherings like this can be a model for the future. They look to bridge across local, state and federal stakeholders to create a sense of shared mission and responsibility,” said REI CEO Jerry Stritzke. “This work can be foundational for creating a next generation that loves and cares for the outdoors, and is vital in shaping the future of our towns, states and country.”

In 2017, as several states were establishing these leadership positions, the State of Colorado saw an opportunity to foster a shared vision for the future of the outdoors, to share best practices and, ideally, create a set of cross-state policy principles for maximizing the sector’s many benefits. At the urging of Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper, the state’s Outdoor Recreation Industry Office, led by Luis Benitez, set up the process for convening the “ORec 8” for this shared undertaking. The result of this work was the first-ever Confluence Summit, which took place in Denver on January 24, 2018, and was attended by approximately 100 delegates and staff.

Leading up to the summit and at the event, the delegations began to develop a collaborative working document titled “The Colorado Accords.” The document aims to define a collective vision and set of principles in four broad and important areas:

  • Economic development
  • Conservation and stewardship
  • Education and workforce development
  • Public health and wellness

The Asheville Confluence Summit will build on this groundbreaking work.

“It is imperative that the Confluence Summits migrate from state to state each year to celebrate each region’s robust outdoor recreation industry ecosystem and economy and continue work on shared principles,” said Luis Benitez, director of the Colorado office of outdoor recreation.

Once ratified, the Accords will remain a living document, open to adjustments and adaptations as best practices are identified and as other states enter the process. Additional states are considering creating their own outdoor recreation-focused offices. According to Benitez, as well as David Knight, who was appointed North Carolina’s Director of Outdoor Industry Recruitment in January, those states are welcome to join the effort, subject to a firm, unambiguous commitment to the sector from the state’s governor and/or legislature, and the designation of an outdoor recreation sector leader.

At the heart of REI Co-op is the belief that a life outdoors is a life well-lived and that access to enriching outdoor experiences is something every American has the right to enjoy. To support the first Confluence Summit, the Co-op made funds available to the Colorado Tourism Office so that it could offer travel stipends to delegates who lacked funding. REI has pledged similar support for the event in Asheville, subject to compliance with state and local ethics requirements.

“This gathering brings together thought-leaders from diverse backgrounds – from business, the nonprofit community, government and tribal communities. Given budget realities, many stakeholders could not attend without a travel stipend. We see it as part of the co-op mission to bring together advocates for the outdoors,” said Marc Berejka, REI’s director of government and community affairs.

About the REI Co-op
REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of more than 17 million members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips and outstanding customer service. REI has 151 stores in 36 states. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI.com/rei-garage or the free REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. You can take the trip of a lifetime with REI Adventures, a global leader in active adventure travel that runs more than 170 custom-designed itineraries worldwide. The REI Outdoor School is run by professionally-trained, expert-instructors who teach beginner to advanced-level courses about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to—and steward—the outdoor places that inspire us all.

Media contact:
prrequests@rei.com

Source: REI

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REI ranks 43 on Fortune’s “100 Best Companies to Work For” 2018

Co-op has been honored as one of Fortune’s top employers every year in the ranking’s history

SEATTLE, 2018-Feb-20 — /EPR Retail News/ — For the 21st consecutive year, REI was recognized as one of the nation’s top employers, ranking 43 on Fortune’s “100 Best Companies to Work For” list. The honor celebrates the co-op’s more than 12,000 employees that work every day to connect REI members and customers with life outdoors.

Placement on the list is based on survey responses from a sampling of employees asked to rate their workplace culture. Final ranking is determined by more than 50 elements of the workplace, including trust in managers, compensation and camaraderie.

“It’s an incredible honor, in our 80th year as a co-op, that our employees feel so strongly about the work we do,” said Raquel Karls, REI senior vice president of human resources. “REI’s culture is built around the idea that a life outdoors is a life well lived, and our teams bring that to life every day for our millions of members in the communities across the country.”

A Great Place to Work
REI is a purpose-led organization that prioritizes stewardship of the outdoors. The co-op invests 70 percent of its profits annually in the outdoor community, including 400 nonprofits that create access to the outdoors for all.

In addition, REI remains committed to caring for the long-term health of the outdoors. The co-op continues to source 100 percent renewable energy for all REI locations and operates a LEED Platinum and Net Zero Energy distribution center in Goodyear, Arizona. REI also plans to incorporate sustainable design into its new campus in Bellevue, Washington.

Employees share in the co-op’s commitment to the outdoor community. According to REI’s annual employee survey, 96 percent of employees fully support the co-op’s values and believe REI has a great reputation for its products and services. The co-op’s combined pay and benefits lead the retail industry and employees enjoy a number of unique perks:

  • Days off to play outside: Every year, co-op employees receive two paid “Yay Days” that allow them to enjoy their favorite outdoor activity, learn a new skill or help to maintain outdoor spaces through a stewardship project.
  • #OptOutside: Employees also receive an additional paid day off on Black Friday to spend time outdoors with family and friends. In 2017, thousands of employees chose to #OptOutside and more than 8 million people joined the movement.
  • Increased parental leave: In 2018, REI enhanced its parental leave policy so employees can continue to balance their life at home with their life at work. Parents now receive up to six weeks of paid leave when welcoming a new child into the family.
  • Deals on gear: REI employees enjoy deep discounts on gear and experiences making it easier for them to try new products and build expertise to share with members.  Through our Challenge Grant program, employees can also receive up to $300 in REI private brands products for any outdoor activity, as long as it’s deemed a challenge for them.

Join the REI Team
As the co-op continues to grow, REI is looking to add passionate individuals to its team, including staff for its new stores opening later this year in Chattanooga, Tennessee and Cleveland. REI looks for candidates who embody its values and have a genuine love for the outdoors. Interested candidates can visit http://rei.jobs/.

About the REI Co-op
REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of more than 17 million members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips and outstanding customer service. REI has 151 stores in 36 states. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI.com/rei-garage or the free REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. You can take the trip of a lifetime with REI Adventures, a global leader in active adventure travel that runs more than 170 custom-designed itineraries worldwide. The REI Outdoor School is run by professionally-trained, expert-instructors who teach beginner to advanced-level courses about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to—and steward—the outdoor places that inspire us all.

About The FORTUNE 100 Best Companies To Work For®
Great Place to Work based its ranking on a data-driven methodology applied to anonymous Trust Index™ survey responses from more than 310,000 employees at Great Place to Work-Certified organizations with more than 1,000 employees. To learn more about Great Place to Work Certification and recognition on Best Workplaces lists published with FORTUNE, visit greatplacetowork.com.

About Great Place to Work®
Great Place to Work is the global authority on high-trust, high-performance workplace cultures. Through its certification programs, Great Place to Work recognizes outstanding workplace cultures and produces the annual Fortune “100 Best Companies to Work For®” and Great Place to Work Best Workplaces lists for Millennials, Women, Diversity, Small & Medium Companies, industries and, internationally, countries and regions. Through its culture consulting services, Great Place to Work helps clients create great workplaces that outpace peers on key business metrics like revenue growth, profitability, retention and stock performance. Learn more at greatplacetowork.com and on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Media Requests:

For more information or to request an interview, please contact REI Public Affairs at
prrequests@rei.com

Source: REI

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Stanley+Techstars Additive Manufacturing Accelerator now accepting applications

HARTFORD, Conn., 2018-Feb-07 — /EPR Retail News/ — Stanley Black & Decker (NYSE: SWK) and Techstars today (Feb. 5, 2018 ) announced that the application period for the Stanley+Techstars Additive Manufacturing Accelerator is now open.

Last month, Stanley Black & Decker and Techstars, one of the world’s best startup accelerators, announced the formation of a three-year partnership and the launch of the Stanley+Techstars Additive Manufacturing Accelerator in Hartford. This mentorship-driven, entrepreneurial accelerator program will select 10 startups in the additive manufacturing space to participate in its first year.

The Stanley+Techstars Additive Manufacturing Accelerator will focus on additive manufacturing, which includes technologies that build 3D objects by adding layer-upon-layer of material. The materials range from plastics and metals to concrete, among others. The technologies may include 3D printing, rapid prototyping, direct digital manufacturing, layered manufacturing and additive fabrication. The applications of additive manufacturing are endless.

Applications will be open until April 8, 2018, and the program will run in the third quarter of 2018. Similar programs will be run in 2019 and 2020, with 30 potential startups completing the process.

Startups will co-locate with Stanley Black & Decker’s new Advanced Manufacturing Center of Excellence – Manufactory 4.0 – in Hartford, CT, and have access to mentoring and resources to grow their ideas into viable businesses and bring new technologies to market.

Visit https://www.techstars.com/programs/additive-manufacturing-program/ to apply. More information about the application process can be found here: http://apptoolkit.techstars.com.

About Stanley Black & Decker

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

Media Contacts:

Tim Perra
Vice President, Public Affairs
Stanley Black & Decker
Phone: 860-826-3260
Email: Tim.Perra@sbdinc.com

SOURCE: Stanley Black & Decker

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RCH Group at EuroCIS: Convenience, personalisation, and speed of transaction key for customer satisfaction in retail

ITALY, 2018-Feb-06 — /EPR Retail News/ — Technology plays a crucial role in the modern world of retail, affecting all areas of the sales cycle from inventory management right through to pricing and customer experience. EuroCIS is the leading trade fair for the retail technology sector, taking place in Dusseldorf, Germany from February 27th to March 1st, 2018.

RCH Group SpA is once again taking the opportunity provided by EuroCIS to demonstrate how it is responding to the requirements of this fast-paced digital era. Visitors to Hall 10, Stand E59 will view a range of hardware and software solutions based on decades of technological research and innovation. Each solution caters specifically to one or more points in the sales cycle.

“Convenience, personalisation, and speed of transaction are key success factors for customer satisfaction in retail,” states Michele Stecca, Director of Exports at RCH Group. “In our digital world, consumers expect multichannel sales points where they can decide if they want to shop online or physically instore via a self-service kiosk or with a cashier. Intelligent technology that can merge the old with the new, offline with online, providing tools to monitor and manage all aspects of the sales cycle will allow retailers to deliver a fast, convenient and personalised shopping experience while retaining customer loyalty.”

RCH’s products are conceived to be at the centre of the point of sale. Smart on the inside, each product has a distinguished and modern design made in Italy. An RCH product is characterised by its perfect combination of elegance with the simplicity of functionality.

More information about RCH Group is available at http://www.rch-europe.com/ Further information about DATA4 and its products is available at http://www.data4.it/?lang=en

SOURCE: EuropaWire

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RCH: smart devices and cloud-based software become increasingly important for the effective and timely management and automation of POS

Treviso, ITALY, 2018-Jan-09 — /EPR Retail News/ — RCH Group SpA, a provider of advanced point of sale systems for the retail, food and beverage, and the public administration sector, today announced the launch of the European headquarters of its subsidiary, RCH Europe, in Innsbruck, Austria. This new centre of operations will support the company’s growing activities across the region. Overseeing this endeavour is RCH Overseas Sales Director, Michele Stecca.

The opening of the company’s European headquarters comes as it expands its product offering with the addition of cloud-based software and smart technology capabilities and applications. RCH’s products are based on open standards technology and can be easily integrated with various third-party applications and systems.

“This is an exciting time for RCH Europe and marks a major milestone for our company as we expand our presence across European markets”, said Michele Stecca, RCH Overseas Sales Director. “With the advent of mobile technology, the necessity of smart devices and cloud-based software is becoming increasingly important for the effective and timely management and automation of POS.”

2017 was a pivotal year for the company with new deployments in several countries across Europe. An increasing European customer base coupled with the necessity to have centralised operations to handle all regional deployments and after-sales technical support led the company to Austria.

RCH Europe designs, produces, and sells fiscal printers, fiscal and non-fiscal cash registers, and Point of Sale (POS) hardware and software. Since its foundation over 48 years ago, the company’s products, all conceived in Italy, are recognised across several markets for their advanced technology, smart designs, and ease of use.

The expansion of RCH in Europe is a step forward towards strengthening and growing the company’s portfolio of clients. The new office also represents the extension of the RCH team, as the company will offer new job opportunities in the Innsbruck office.

More information about RCH Europe and its products is available at http://www.rch-europe.com/

SOURCE: EuropaWire

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Stanley Black & Decker accelerates its global Industry 4.0 “smart factory” initiative with an Advanced Manufacturing Center of Excellence in downtown Hartford

Stanley Black & Decker accelerates its global Industry 4.0 “smart factory” initiative with an Advanced Manufacturing Center of Excellence in downtown Hartford

 

  • Names Sudhi Bangalore to lead center that will eventually house approximately 50 Industry 4.0 professionals
  • Announces launch of STANLEY+Techstars Additive Manufacturing Accelerator to bring start-ups to Hartford

HARTFORD, Conn., 2017-Dec-06 — /EPR Retail News/ — Stanley Black & Decker (NYSE: SWK) today (Dec. 5, 2017) announced plans to open an Advanced Manufacturing Center of Excellence in downtown Hartford to accelerate its global Industry 4.0 “smart factory” initiative. Called “Manufactory 4.0,” named after the original Stanley Bolt Manufactory founded in 1843, the 23,000-square-foot Center will be located at One Constitution Plaza and will employ approximately 50 Industry 4.0 professionals. The company has appointed Sudhi Bangalore, most recently WIPRO’s Global Head of Smart Manufacturing and Industry 4.0 Solutions, to lead the center. The company is also launching an additive manufacturing accelerator with Techstars that will be housed at the new facility.

“Strong urban cores, and in particular a vibrant capital city, are essential to Connecticut’s ability to thrive which is why we decided to locate this important new initiative in Hartford,” said Stanley Black & Decker’s President and Chief Executive Officer Jim Loree. “Our team has worked closely with Mayor Bronin’s office, and we are excited to be a part of building a vibrant, strong capital city. With the budget now passed, the hard work can begin to solve some of the state’s structural fiscal challenges and put the state on a more sound economical path. We cannot lose the sense of urgency and must recognize that the state is at a critical juncture. As a company founded in New Britain, Connecticut, almost 175 years ago, we have expressed our commitment from a social responsibility perspective to being part of the solution.”

“Our Manufactory 4.0 will serve as the epicenter for the latest technologies and processes with respect to Industry 4.0,” said Don Allan, Chief Financial Officer for Stanley Black & Decker. “Just as Connecticut was at the heart of the first three Industrial Revolutions and has continued to have a strong manufacturing presence, we believe that the state has the potential to be a leader for what is often called the Fourth Industrial Revolution – the automation of manufacturing that includes the internet of things, cloud computing, artificial intelligence, 3-D printing, robotics and advanced materials. We are thrilled that Sudhi has joined the company to lead this effort, which is a critical component of our company’s 22/22 strategy.”

“Today’s announcement further cements Stanley Black & Decker’s reputation as a leading innovator in advanced manufacturing, and a tremendous partner to the State of Connecticut,” said Governor Dannel P. Malloy. “The Advanced Manufacturing Center of Excellence will be critical in spurring innovation and ensuring that our state continues to build upon our reputation as a global leader in advanced manufacturing. We are grateful to CEO Jim Loree for his partnership and extraordinary vision and commitment not only to Stanley Black & Decker, but to our capital city and the State of Connecticut as a whole.”

“I’m thrilled to welcome Stanley Black & Decker’s Advanced Manufacturing Center of Excellence and Additive Manufacturing Accelerator to Hartford, putting Connecticut’s Capital City at the leading edge of innovation in advanced manufacturing,” said Hartford Mayor Luke Bronin.  “Today’s announcement represents an enormous win in our effort to make Hartford a hub for innovation in our region’s core industries. I want to thank CEO Jim Loree and Stanley Black & Decker’s senior leadership for their inspiring commitment to reinventing manufacturing right here in Connecticut and right here in Connecticut’scapital city.”

Sudhi Bangalore will serve as Stanley Black & Decker’s Vice President of Industry 4.0, reporting to Allan, and has a deep expertise in Industry 4.0 and Digital Manufacturing. Leveraging a unique combination of operations and technology background, he has served as an expert advisor to shape and deploy Industry 4.0 strategies for several global customers. Prior to serving in his current role at WIPRO, he was the company’s Global Practice Head for Industrial Automation. He has held operations and business unit manager leadership roles across a number of leading technology companies, including Danaher Corporation, Siemens and Rockwell Automation. He earned a Bachelor’s in Electronic Engineering from Bangalore University, a Master’s in Industrial Engineering from the University of Louisville and an M.B.A. from Kent State University.

Stanley Black & Decker currently operates approximately 30 manufacturing facilities in the U.S., including three in Connecticut, with more than 100 manufacturing facilities globally. The company has three locations designated as “Lighthouse Factories,” that have partially implemented Industry 4.0 across their facilities from manufacturing execution systems (MES), to 3-D printing, virtual reality and artificial intelligence.

In addition, to support and accelerate innovation in Industry 4.0, the company has made a three-year commitment to partnering with Techstars, one of the world’s best startup accelerators, and is announcing the launch of the STANLEY+Techstars Additive Manufacturing Accelerator. The mentorship-driven, entrepreneurial accelerator program will identify 10 startups in the additive manufacturing space to participate in the program in the program’s first year. Companies will co-locate with Manufactory 4.0 and have access to mentoring and resources to grow their ideas into viable businesses, and bring new technologies to market. Additive manufacturing refers to 3-D printing and the collection of technologies that are used throughout the process, including those involved in rapid prototyping, rapid manufacturing and free form fabrication, among others. The application process will begin in January 2018. Similar programs will be run in 2019 and 2020, with 30 potential startups completing the process.

“Additive manufacturing is a field that is constantly evolving and will significantly change the manufacturing environment of the future,” said Corbin Walburger, Vice President of Business Development for Stanley Black & Decker. “The STANLEY+Techstars Additive Manufacturing Accelerator demonstrates our commitment to this emerging industry, and shows our intent to stay at the forefront of technological change and incorporate another example of innovative and disruptive technologies into our business model.”

About Stanley Black & Decker

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

Media Contacts:

Shannon Lapierre
Vice President, Communications
Stanley Black & Decker
Phone: 860-259-7669
Email: Shannon.Lapierre@sbdinc.com

Tim Perra
Vice President, Public Affairs
Stanley Black & Decker
Phone: 860-826-3260
Email: Tim.Perra@sbdinc.com

SOURCE: Stanley Black & Decker

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Stanley Black & Decker and Techstars launch the STANLEY+Techstars Additive Manufacturing Accelerator in Hartford

HARTFORD, Conn., 2017-Dec-06 — /EPR Retail News/ — Stanley Black & Decker (NYSE: SWK) and Techstars, one of the world’s best startup accelerators, today (Dec. 5, 2017) announced the formation of a three-year partnership and the launch of the STANLEY+Techstars Additive Manufacturing Accelerator in Hartford. This mentorship-driven, entrepreneurial accelerator program will select 10 startups in the additive manufacturing space to participate in its first year. Applications will open in January 2018, and the program will run in the third quarter of 2018. Similar programs will be run in 2019 and 2020, with 30 potential startups completing the process.

Startups will co-locate with Stanley Black & Decker’s new Advanced Manufacturing Center of Excellence – Manufactory 4.0 – in Hartford, CT, and have access to mentoring and resources to grow their ideas into viable businesses and bring new technologies to market.

“Additive manufacturing is a field that is constantly evolving and will significantly change the manufacturing environment of the future,” said Corbin Walburger, Vice President of Business Development for Stanley Black & Decker. “The STANLEY+Techstars Additive Manufacturing Accelerator demonstrates our commitment to this emerging industry, and shows our intent to stay at the forefront of technological change and incorporate innovative and disruptive technologies into our business model.”

Stanley Black & Decker currently operates more than 100 manufacturing facilities globally, including approximately 30 in the U.S. and three in Connecticut. Three of the company’s locations are designated as “Lighthouse Factories,” plants that have partially implemented Industry 4.0 across their facilities from manufacturing execution systems (MES), to 3-D printing, virtual reality, robotics and artificial intelligence.

“We are thrilled to be bringing our successful accelerator model to Hartford,” said David Brown, co-CEO and co-founder of Techstars. “Hartford is thriving with early-stage startups ranging from companies focused on science, technology and software solutions to B2B and small business services. Connecticutwas at the heart of the first three Industrial Revolutions and has continued to have a strong manufacturing presence, which makes it a great location for an accelerator focused on the Fourth Industrial Revolution and additive manufacturing, in particular.”

To apply to participate, visit https://www.techstars.com/programs/ beginning in January 2018.

About Stanley Black & Decker

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

About Techstars

Techstars helps entrepreneurs succeed. Techstars partners with over 300 new businesses each year to provide them with the resources, network and knowledge needed to successfully grow their business. A global network in more than 150 countries, Techstars has 300,000 alumni and more than 10,000 mentors. Of the 1100 startups that have been through the Techstars program, 90% are either still active or have been acquired. Techstars was named one of the world’s best startup accelerators by Entreprenuer Magazine. Techstars accelerator portfolio includes more than 1,000 companies with a market cap of $8.1 billion. www.techstars.com

Media Contacts:

Shannon Lapierre
Vice President, Communications
Stanley Black & Decker
Phone: 860-259-7669
Email: Shannon.Lapierre@sbdinc.com

Tim Perra
Vice President, Public Affairs
Stanley Black & Decker
Phone: 860-826-3260
Email: Tim.Perra@sbdinc.com

SOURCE: Stanley Black & Decker

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Stanley Black & Decker appoints Dr. Mark Maybury to the newly created position of Chief Technology Officer

Stanley Black & Decker appoints Dr. Mark Maybury to the newly created position of Chief Technology Officer

 

NEW BRITAIN, Conn., 2017-Nov-14 — /EPR Retail News/ — Stanley Black & Decker (NYSE: SWK) has named Dr. Mark Maybury to the newly created position of Chief Technology Officer. Maybury joins the organization from The MITRE Corporation, where he held a variety of strategic technology leadership roles over 27 years. At Stanley Black & Decker, Maybury will form a small, agile team to work across the company’s businesses and functions to advise and counsel management on technological threats and opportunities, as well as provide access to all elements of the global technology ecosystem.

“Mark is a well-known and highly respected technology leader with an impressive wealth of knowledge and expertise critical to our technological journey,” said Stanley Black & Decker’s President and CEO Jim Loree. “Our aspiration is to become known as one of the world’s leading innovators, and we believe this is a key component of our strategy to achieve the 22/22 vision. As the pace of change continues to accelerate across the continuum of technologies, we are staffing our team with the right talent to navigate the changing world.”

Maybury most recently served as Vice President of Intelligence Portfolios and prior to that was MITRE’s Vice President and Chief Security Officer and Director of the National Cybersecurity Federally Funded Research and Development Center (FFRDC). Before joining MITRE, Maybury served as a U.S. Air Force officer. He later returned to the Air Force as Chief Scientist from 2010 to 2013 where he advised the Chief of Staff and Secretary of the Air Force on a wide range of scientific and technical issues.

He is currently a member of the Defense Science Board and recently completed multiple years of service on the Air Force Scientific Advisory Board and the Homeland Security Science and Technology Advisory committee. He is a fellow in both the IEEE and the Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence. Maybury is widely published, having authored or edited 10 books and more than 60 publications.

Maybury earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from College of the Holy Cross (Fenwick Scholar, valedictorian), a master’s degree in computer speech and language processing from Cambridge University, England (Rotary Scholar), a master’s degree in business administration from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, and a doctoral degree in artificial intelligence also from Cambridge University.

About Stanley Black & Decker

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

Media Contacts:
Tim Perra
Vice President, Public Affairs
Tim.Perra@sbdinc.com
860-826-3260

Dennis Lange
Vice President, Investor Relations
Dennis.Lange@sbdinc.com
860-827-3833

SOURCE: Stanley Black & Decker

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Tractor Supply Company announces its participation in the Morgan Stanley Global Consumer and Retail Conference

BRENTWOOD, Tenn., 2017-Nov-09 — /EPR Retail News/ — Tractor Supply Company (NASDAQ:TSCO), the largest rural lifestyle retail store chain in the United States, today (Nov. 08, 2017) announced its participation in the Morgan Stanley Global Consumer and Retail Conference on November 15, 2017.  Kurt Barton, Chief Financial Officer; Rob Mills, Chief Information Officer and Strategist; and Beth Thompson, Manager, Investor Relations and Corporate Communications, will attend this conference.

The Company’s 30-minute presentation will begin at 10:40 a.m. Eastern Time, on November 15, 2017 and will be webcast live on the Company’s website at IR.TractorSupply.com.  The webcast will be archived and available at the same location shortly after the presentation.

About Tractor Supply Company
Founded in 1938, Tractor Supply Company is the largest rural lifestyle retail store chain in the United States. At September 30, 2017, the Company operated 1,665 Tractor Supply stores in 49 states and an e-commerce website at www.tractorsupply.com. Tractor Supply stores are focused on supplying the lifestyle needs of recreational farmers and ranchers and others who enjoy the rural lifestyle, as well as tradesmen and small businesses.  Stores are located primarily in towns outlying major metropolitan markets and in rural communities.  The Company offers the following comprehensive selection of merchandise: (1) equine, livestock, pet and small animal products, including items necessary for their health, care, growth and containment; (2) hardware, truck, towing and tool products; (3) seasonal products, including heating, lawn and garden items, power equipment, gifts and toys; (4) work/recreational clothing and footwear; and (5) maintenance products for agricultural and rural use.

Tractor Supply Company also owns and operates Petsense, a small-box pet specialty supply retailer focused on meeting the needs of pet owners, primarily in small and mid-size communities, and offering a variety of pet products and services.  At September 30, 2017, the Company operated 162 Petsense stores in 26 states.  For more information on Petsense, visit www.petsense.com.

Contact:

Kurt Barton
Chief Financial Officer

Beth Thompson
Manager
Investor Relations and Corporate Communications
(615) 440-4000

Investors:
John Rouleau/Rachel Schacter, ICR

Media:
Alecia Pulman/Brittany Rae Fraser, ICR
(203) 682-8200

Source: Tractor Supply Company/globenewswire

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Tractor Supply Company announces the appointment of Thomas A. Kingsbury to its Board of Directors

BRENTWOOD, Tenn., 2017-Nov-08 — /EPR Retail News/ — Tractor Supply Company (NASDAQ:TSCO), the largest rural lifestyle retail store chain in the United States, today (Nov. 06, 2017)  announced that Thomas A. Kingsbury has been appointed to the Company’s Board of Directors.

Mr. Kingsbury brings a wealth of knowledge and CEO leadership experience to the Tractor Supply Board, having worked in the retail industry for more than 40 years. He has served as a senior executive with several leading retailers, including Kohl’s Corporation and The May Department Stores Company. Mr. Kingsbury has served as President and Chief Executive Officer and a member of the Board of Directors of Burlington Stores, Inc. since December 2008, and he was appointed Chairman of the Board of Directors for Burlington Stores, Inc. in May 2014.

“We are thrilled to welcome Tom to our Board of Directors,” said Cynthia Jamison, Tractor Supply Company’s Chairman of the Board. “Tom is a talented leader with a pulse on consumer behavior and purchasing patterns, as well as an expert in merchandising strategies that drive market share growth and margin improvement. As we continue to focus on linking our physical and digital storefronts into one seamless shopping environment through the ONETractor initiative, we look forward to the contributions Tom will bring to the Company.”

Mr. Kingsbury commented, “Tractor Supply has an extremely authentic brand with a proven store growth strategy, unique merchandising assortments, and knowledgeable team members that have made them the leading authority in the rural lifestyle segment. I’m excited to be joining the Company’s Board as Tractor Supply continues to implement strategic initiatives to enhance shareholder value.”

Prior to serving as President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of Burlington Stores, Inc., Mr. Kingsbury served as Senior Executive Vice President of Information Services, E-Commerce, Marketing and Business Development of Kohl’s Corporation from August 2006 to December 2008. Prior to 2006, Mr. Kingsbury served in various management positions with The May Department Stores Company, an operator of department store chains, commencing in 1976 and as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Filene’s division since February 2000.

About Tractor Supply Company
Founded in 1938, Tractor Supply Company is the largest rural lifestyle retail store chain in the United States. At September 30, 2017, the Company operated 1,665 Tractor Supply stores in 49 states and an e-commerce website at www.tractorsupply.com. Tractor Supply stores are focused on supplying the lifestyle needs of recreational farmers and ranchers and others who enjoy the rural lifestyle, as well as tradesmen and small businesses.  Stores are located primarily in towns outlying major metropolitan markets and in rural communities.  The Company offers the following comprehensive selection of merchandise: (1) equine, livestock, pet and small animal products, including items necessary for their health, care, growth and containment; (2) hardware, truck, towing and tool products; (3) seasonal products, including heating, lawn and garden items, power equipment, gifts and toys; (4) work/recreational clothing and footwear; and (5) maintenance products for agricultural and rural use.

Tractor Supply Company also owns and operates Petsense, a small-box pet specialty supply retailer focused on meeting the needs of pet owners, primarily in small and mid-size communities, and offering a variety of pet products and services.  At September 30, 2017, the Company operated 162 Petsense stores in 26 states.  For more information on Petsense, visit www.petsense.com.

Contact:
Kurt Barton
Chief Financial Officer

Beth Thompson
Manager
Investor Relations and Corporate Communications
(615) 440-4000

Investors:
John Rouleau/Rachel Schacter

Media:
Alecia Pulman/Brittany Rae Fraser
ICR
(203) 682-8200

Source: Tractor Supply Company/globenewswire

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Stanley Black & Decker to open its third manufacturing facility in Texas

MISSION, Texas, 2017-Nov-01 — /EPR Retail News/ — Stanley Black & Decker (NYSE: SWK) today (Oct. 31, 2017) announced that the world’s largest tools and storage company will open a new manufacturing facility in Mission, TX. The company has signed a lease on a nearly 300,000 square foot facility that will make DEWALT power tool products. The facility will eventually support approximately 450 new jobs in the region and is expected to begin operations in early 2018.

“The opening of our third manufacturing facility in Texas augments our strategy of making where we sell, reinforcing our long-standing commitment to making in America and making in Texas,” said Jeff Ansell, President of Stanley Black & Decker’s Global Tools & Storage business.  “We have continuously manufactured in the U.S. since 1843, and we are the first tool company to proudly bring manufacturing back to the USA in recent times. We continue to strengthen and expand our U.S.-based manufacturing capabilities and we believe that this newest expansion in Texas will enable further acceleration of our Made in the USA with global materials portfolio.”

“The Mission Economic Development Corporation (Mission EDC) team has been working with Stanley Black & Decker for the past several months and we are excited to see their hard work has paid off,” said City of Mission Mayor Norberto Salinas. “It’s a great day for Mission and a great day for the Rio Grande Valley when a company of this caliber decides to invest in our region. These are exactly the type of jobs that we want to attract to our city, and this investment shows that Mission is an attractive location for major employers to locate and grow.”

Stanley Black & Decker operates approximately 30 manufacturing facilities in the United States, which produce a broad range of products under major brands such as STANLEY, PROTO, LISTA, VIDMAR, CRAFTSMAN and DEWALT. Over the past three years, the company has added 40% more manufacturing employees in the United States, and added manufacturing capacity in North Carolina, Tennessee, Indiana, Maryland and more.

About Stanley Black & Decker

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

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

SOURCE: Stanley Black & Decker

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RIMOWA launches campaign to mark the 80th anniversary of its design

RIMOWA launches campaign to mark the 80th anniversary of its design

 

Paris, 2017-Oct-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — In 1937 RIMOWA revolutionized the world of travel by using aluminum for the first time to craft lightweight luggage made of aluminum. Inspired by the early days of aviation, the emblematic RIMOWA aluminum luggage has become a true travel icon. To mark the 80th anniversary of its design, RIMOWA has released a campaign retracing the history of the case and the stories of well-known owners who never leave without it…

Chance and circumstance combined to give birth to the RIMOWA aluminum suitcase in the 1930s. After a fire at the RIMOWA factory, the only surviving material was a piece of metal, sparking the idea of designing a piece of luggage made of lightweight, robust aluminum. Since then, the brand has ceaslessly innovated to optimize a now iconic range that fetes its 80th anniversary in 2017.

Setting out to produce exceptionally durable luggage able to stand the test of time, RIMOWA revolutionized travel culture. The instantly-recognizable design was subsequently produced in a smaller model, becoming a must for travelers the world over. In 1976, waterproof cases were developed, protecting delicate equipment from water, humidity, heat and cold, making RIMOWA a favorite among filmmakers, photographers and all manner of adventurers.

With the unmistakable RIMOWA signature grooved design, this travel companion is synonymous with a never-ending quest for excellence, melding craftsmanship, high-tech, impeccable quality and timeless elegance. It takes some 205 components and over 90 work processes to make each case at the Cologne factory.

To celebrate the 80th anniversary of its aluminum suitcase RIMOWA has invited friends of the Maison to present their own personal aluminum luggage and share stories of their travels. Among them are designer Karl Lagerfeld, director David Fincher, journalist Carine Roitfeld, three-star chef Massimo Bottura and Virgil Abloh, creator of the Off-White brand.

The campaign also includes a film shot by Dan Tobin Smith that follows the production of a suitcase in the workshop at the company’s headquarters in Cologne, Germany.

Contact:

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

Source: LVMH

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Stanley Black & Decker announces inclusion in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index, North America for the seventh consecutive year

NEW BRITAIN, Conn., 2017-Oct-05 — /EPR Retail News/ — Stanley Black & Decker (NYSE: SWK) has been selected as a component of the Dow Jones Sustainability Index (DJSI) for North America for the seventh consecutive year. Stanley Black & Decker’s overall score placed the company in the 86th percentile of the DJSI, up from 83rd last year.

“At Stanley Black & Decker, we recognize that we have a broader role to play in bettering our society. To us that means incorporating social responsibility into the day-to-day strategy and operations of our business so we all collectively win,” said Stanley Black & Decker’s President and CEO Jim Loree. “We are honored to be recognized by the Dow Jones Sustainability Index for the seventh consecutive year. It’s truly a reflection of the commitment of our 55,000 employees around the globe. They all want to make the world a better place by making our company more sustainable and I couldn’t be prouder of the team.”

The DJSI measures performance on more than 600 different data points in 22 different categories, including environmental stewardship, human rights, corporate philanthropy and much more. To be selected for the Index, companies undergo a thorough analysis of company-wide economic, environmental and social performance, assessing issues such as corporate governance, risk management, customer relationship management, product stewardship, supply chain standards and labor relations.

Stanley Black & Decker matched the highest score within the Machinery & Electrical Equipment sector for Corporate Governance and Climate Strategy, and delivered within the highest percentile in Corporate Governance, Climate Strategy and Talent Attraction & Retention. Most improved results noted in Innovation Management, Product Stewardship and Talent Attraction & Retention.

Companies are selected according to a systematic assessment that identifies the sustainability leaders in each of 57 industries. The research methodology for the Index includes general and industry-specific sustainability trends. Corporations are evaluated based on a variety of criteria including climate change strategies, energy consumption, human capital development, knowledge management, stakeholder relations and corporate governance.

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

About Dow Jones Sustainability Indices
The DJSI family is offered cooperatively by RobecoSAM Indices and S&P Dow Jones Indices. The family tracks the stock performance of the world’s leading companies in terms of economic, environmental and social criteria.  The indices serve as benchmarks for investors who integrate sustainability considerations into their portfolios, and provide an effective engagement platform for companies who want to adopt sustainable best practices. The DJSI for North America launched in September 2005 and reviews the top 20% of the 600 largest companies in the United States and Canada in terms of economic, environmental, and social criteria.

CONTACT:
Tim Perra
Stanley Black & Decker
Vice President, Public Affairs
(860) 826-3260
tim.perra@sbdinc.com

SOURCE: Stanley Black & Decker

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REI introduces eight new adventure touring and recreational transit bikes to the 2018 Co-op Cycles brand line-up

  • REI confirms successful growth of its in-house cycling brand
  • Member and employee feedback aids in design inspiration for new bikes

Kent, Washington, 2017-Oct-02 — /EPR Retail News/ — Drafting off a successful first year with the introduction of its Co-op Cycles brand, REI, the nation’s largest outdoor co-op, will introduce eight new adventure touring and recreational transit bikes to the 2018 brand line-up. The ADV and CTY lines will debut four new bikes each. Along with the rest of the Co-op Cycles line, the redesigned ADV series, crafted for riders who enjoy longer touring adventures, and the redesigned CTY series, built for around-the-neighborhood and city commuting, were built from the ground up with inspiration and input from the co-op’s most passionate members and employee cyclists.

“We launched Co-op Cycles with a clear purpose – to engage our members and build bikes that reflect how they actually live and ride. It was clear they value simplicity, versatility and reliability, and the team ventured to reflect those values in the design of the initial line,” said Paul Calandrella, REI director of cycle strategy. “The approach is clearly resonating with both our members and employees, and Co-op Cycles has exceeded sales goals well beyond expectations in its first year.”

With design inspiration gleaned from passionate members and employees, Co-op Cycles leans into a “trail-first” approach to focus on mountain (DRT), all-road (ARD), adventure (ADV), pavement (CTY) and youth (REV) bikes along with a related line of apparel.

“The unique way our members integrate the bicycle into their outdoor lives continues to inspire us to go deeper into our mission, and build a more relevant bike for them. Our cooperative design approach helps us to deeply understand their experience and guides our thinking, designs and product decisions,” Calandrella said. “The 2018 lineup is the next great chapter in this adventure.”

CO-OP CYCLES ADVENTURE TOURING BIKES
REI has a long history as a go-to for passionate touring cyclists, who often have specific needs for their bikes and related gear. The new ADV bikes released this year build on that legacy, with the introduction of bikes made for riders looking to take their adventures to the end of the pavement and onto the trail. The bikes can haul gear, carry packs and operate reliably – no matter the surface or distance.

New 2018 Adventure Touring Bikes:

  • ADV 1.1 This bike was designed for fully loaded smooth riding over miles of pavement and mountain passes. It features a double butted chromoly frame, a chromoly fork with 15mm thru-axle dropout, Shimano Deore LX drivetrain with bar-con shifters and 700 x 38 touring tires, cable actuated hydraulic disc brakes and front and rear racks. $1,299.
  • ADV 3.1 This bike was designed for trail touring enthusiasts with a double-butted chromoly steel frame, rugged chromoly fork with 15mm thru-axle dropout, plentiful rack mounts, 20 speed Shimano Deore drivetrain with bar-con shifters, dual piston mechanical disc brakes, and burly puncture-resistant 650 x 50 Xplor MSO tires. $1,199.
  • ADV 3.2 Designed for rugged mileage and trail touring, this bike features a triple butted aluminum frame, a sturdy aluminum fork with 15mm thru-axle dropout, a bevy of rack mounts, a tried and true Shimano Deore XT 20 speed drivetrain with bar-con shifters, TRP Hylex hydraulic disc brakes and puncture-resistant 650 x 50 Xplor MSO tires. $1,699.
  • ADV 4.2 Designed for overland adventurers, this burly off-road touring bike comes equipped with 27.5 x 2.8 tubeless-ready tires, Shimano’s SLX component set, burly front and rear racks, 22 gears, Cane Creek Thudbuster suspension seat post, Jones H-Bar® handlebar, and Magura MT4 hydraulic disc brakes. $1,899.

CO-OP CYCLES CITY TOURING BIKES
Sometimes the trail is just too far away, so Co-op Cycles ventures to support riders whose time outdoors is spent pedaling around their neighborhood, on urban paved paths or along city streets. For fun, fitness or as their transportation alternative, the CTY line is all about a confident, heads-up riding position, versatile carrying capacity and 360-degree visibility.

New 2018 City Bikes:

  • CTY 1.1 This bike is designed for urban outings. It features an aluminum frame and fork with rack and fender compatibility, a versatile 24-speed Shimano drivetrain with trigger shifters, puncture-resistant 700 x 40 tires and mechanical disc brakes. Also available in a step-thru design. $499.
  • CTY 1.2 This bike is great for longer jaunts including trips to work or the store. It features a double butted aluminum frame and fork with rack and fender compatibility. It comes with a versatile 27-speed Shimano drivetrain, flat handlebar design, Shimano hydraulic disc brakes and a gel saddle. $799.
  • CTY 1.3 A no-fuss belt-drive option for serious coffee shop stops and low-maintenance maneuvering around the city. It features a double butted aluminum frame, an aluminum fork with 15mm thru-axle dropout, Shimano Alfine 8 speed drivetrain paired with the Gates CenterTrack belt-drive system, Shimano hydraulic disc brakes, a gel saddle and rack and fender compatibility. $1,199.
  • CTY 3.1 This sturdy companion sports a double butted chromoly frame, chromoly fork with 15mm thru-axle dropout, Sram NX 1x 11 speed drivetrain with twist shifter, Shimano hydraulic disc brakes, 650 x 47 WTB Horizon tires, a “batwing” style handlebar and rack and fender compatibility. $899.

SUPPORTING LOCAL CYCLING COMMUNITIES

REI continues to partner with nonprofits in local communities across the country to help build cycling infrastructure, improve trails and increase access to areas that are important to its member riders and the riding community at large.


Local and national nonprofit partners include the Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance, New England Mountain Bike Association, Colorado Mountain Bike Association, PeopleForBikes, the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA), and many more. The co-op has provided more than $1.5 million over the last 10 years to support cycling efforts. These national partners build awareness of bicycle safety and create miles of connected cycle trails across the country.
REI also powers a leading digital hub for riders looking to dream and scheme about their next big adventure, MTB Project. With photos and descriptions for more than 80,000 miles of trail, the crowd-sourced website and app is the most complete guide to mountain bike terrain in the country.

About the REI Co-op
REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of more than 16 million members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. REI has 151 stores in 36 states. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI-Garage.com or the free REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. You can take the trip of a lifetime with REI Adventures, a global leader in active adventure travel that runs more than 170 custom-designed itineraries worldwide. The REI Outdoor School is run by professionally trained, expert instructors who teach beginner- to advanced-level courses about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to—and steward—the outdoor places that inspire us all.

SOURCE: REI

Media Requests

For more information or to request an interview, please contact REI Public Affairs at

(253) 395-5958, prrequests@rei.com

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Millennium India All Set to Regale FoodPro 2017 with Innovative POS Technology

CHENNAI, India, 2017-Sep-11 — /EPR Retail News/ —   Millennium India, the pioneer in Point of Sale (POS) technology in India, will be part of over 300 strong contingent of business verticals who will be showcasing their products, services and technology associated with food and beverage industry at the three-day Foodpro 2017 exhibition which will be held from September 7 at Chennai Trade Centre, Chennai.

Millennium has been partnered with Allmark Solutions, a leading weighing scale and other store infrastructure products supplier, along with well-known POS brands POSIFLEX, HONEYWELL and GoDEX to showcase their technology prowess on Point of Sale and other supportive products to business visitors, vendors and prospective entrepreneurs at the event.

The 12th edition of Foodpro 2017 is India’s biennial event on Food Processing, Packaging & Food Technology, organized by the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII).

The food expo will witness exhibitors dealing with food processing technology and machinery, refrigeration and cold chain system, process and packaged food, bakery equipment, kitchen equipment, hospitality products, barcoding and Point of sale technology will look forward for new business opportunities, collaborations, networking and brand promotion and will get updates on innovations and technology.

Bhaskar Venkatraman

On being part of the mega food expo, Bhaskar Venkatraman, CEO and Director of Millennium India said: Foodpro gives an opportunity to showcase our entire range of products to retail businesses which include, manufacturers, re-sellers, hospitality owners, packaging, food processing, cold storage and other logistics service providers. We have world-class technology products of Point of Sale and other store supportive products, and we are here to enhance the awareness of retail business owners on the advantages of using top-notch POS products for their business growth.”

Commenting on the importance of conducting such an event, a CII official said: “India continued to be one of the top producers in number of food grains, fruits, dairy products and poultry & meat products. At the same time, we lag behind most of the developed countries and also some of the developing Southeast Asian countries in terms of processing and value addition. This is resulting in lower returns on investments, very high wastage (up to 28% in some cases) and lower shelf life. Hence it is essential to increase the awareness on the importance of food processing and packaging. FOODPRO exhibition will help businesses to work towards adding value to processed foods and increase shelf life.”

To add value to the show and focus of the growing food sector, CII has added two more verticals – ColdStoRe and T-Food – as concurrent shows to Foodpro2017.

ColdStoRe will focus on the complete cold chain right from primary cold storage facility for food grains and fruits at Farm Level to high end cold storage for meat and food products including the important sector of Cold / Refrigerated Transportation.

Exhibitors profile will include companies that provide equipment, tools, and technologies that support the infrastructure and operations of the cold chain from design to build & operate. The focus will also be on third-party cold storage and refrigeration logistics and all forms of refrigerated transportation, Import/export facilities and services.

T-Food, a traditional food festival will try to bring the awareness about the traditional and local foods. This show will showcase the processed traditional food in healthy way, newer recipes of cooking traditional foods and will provide an opportunity to entrepreneurs to show case the developments in processing of traditional food.

CII will be organizing conferences on food processing technology, cold chain technology and workshop on traditional food with demonstration which will be addressed and conducted by experts in respective fields.

The event will be an ideal platform for the above profile companies to further strengthen their business and brand awareness and also to showcase their latest solutions to the user industry across sector.

About Millennium India

Established in 2002, Millennium Soft-Tech (India) Pvt Ltd has been in the forefront of providing Point of Sale (POS) technology products and solutions to Indian businesses through astute marketing strategy supported by huge partners’ network across India.

Having associated with world’s leading POS brands, Millennium understands the growing demands of retailers better than anyone else irrespective of their size, stature and nature of business, and offers comprehensive, advanced and sustainable solutions to enhance their business.

Headquartered in Chennai and having branches all major cities in India, Millennium has a clear vision of empowering millions of unorganized small and medium enterprises spread across the country by automating their transaction activities and make them competitive with established market peers.

As the national distributor of leading multinational POS brands including Epson, Posiflex, Casio, Toshiba, Honeywell, Godex, and Opticon, Millennium offers POS solutions to corporate brands, retail giants and SMEs across India.

For Media Contact:

K Ramanathan

Content Head and Media Coordinator,

Millennium India, India.

hand phone: +91 9384612789

email: ram (at) justransact (dot) com

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Stanley Black & Decker commits up to $125,000 for immediate Hurricane Harvey disaster relief

NEW BRITAIN, Conn., 2017-Aug-29 — /EPR Retail News/ — As the images and stories of the devastation caused in Texas by Hurricane Harvey continue to mount, Stanley Black & Decker (NYSE: SWK) today (Aug. 28, 2017) announced a commitment of up to $125,000 for immediate distaster relief. The company will donate $50,000 to the American Red Cross and $25,000 to the Houston ToolBank, as well as double its Employee Matching Gifts program (matching employee gifts $2 for every $1 raised) to encourage its employees to quickly generate an additional $50,000. In addition, the company will be donating a fresh set of DEWALT, STANLEY and BLACK+DECKER tools and storage systems to the Houston ToolBank in an effort to double their impact during this time.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of this unprecedented event, including with our more than 650 employees across the state of Texas, more than 200 of whom are in the immediate Houston area,” said Jim Loree, President & CEO of Stanley Black & Decker. “We are committed to assisting those working to provide immediate relief today, and we are committed to working within the community to assist in the rebuilding efforts over time.”

The American Red Cross is one of the best-positioned organizations to provide on-the-ground relief when a disaster strikes. ToolBank is a 25-year-old nonprofit with a commitment to providing tools and supplies so that nonprofits can fulfill their missions without worrying about tool inventories. The ToolBank network has grown into ten metropolitan areas across the United States and now includes a Disaster Services Vehicle, which is a fully-stocked 18-wheel tractor trailer able to deploy when natural disasters strike. The ToolBank Disaster Services vehicle will be en route to the Houston area soon, where it will remain throughout the clean up and rebuilding process.

Through its support of ToolBank, the American Red Cross and other organizations, Stanley Black & Decker has a longstanding track record of providing disaster relief services, and a demonstrated commitment to rebuilding within the communities impacted by natural disasters.

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

CONTACT:
Tim Perra
Stanley Black & Decker
Vice President, Public Affairs
(860) 826-3260
tim.perra@sbdinc.com

SOURCE: Stanley Black & Decker

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REI invested $1 million in organizations that create opportunities to connect women and girls to nature

  • New $500,000 Force of Nature Fund supports 26 nonprofits across the country 
  • Over 500 organizations responded to REI’s call for submissions

SEATTLE, 2017-Aug-28 — /EPR Retail News/ — As part of its commitment to create access to the outdoors for all, REI has invested $1 million in organizations across the country that are creating opportunities to connect women and girls to nature.

In May, REI launched an expansive, consumer-facing effort called Force of Nature to advance gender equity in the outdoors and encourage millions of its members to embrace the outdoors as “the world’s largest level playing field.” As part of the effort, REI committed $500,000 to three national, women-focused nonprofits with whom it already had a relationship, including Camber Outdoors ($400,000), GirlTrek ($50,000) and the YMCA’s GOLD initiative ($50K). It also launched the $500,000 Force of Nature Fund, which extends the co-op’s existing work with women-focused nonprofits into new territory.

Twenty-six nonprofits were selected from over 500 organizations that responded to REI’s open call for submissions. Those 26 investments announced today, will help address obstacles the co-op found in a national study it commissioned on women and the outdoors.

“We believe a life outdoors is a life well lived for all. That means we support equality from the backcountry to the boardroom,” says Jerry Stritzke, REI’s president and CEO. “REI works with hundreds of nonprofits annually to help communities connect with the outdoors, and protect the places we love. A core part of our business model links the co-op’s health to investments in the outdoor community. As we thrive, we share this success. This year, with Force of Nature, we added a specific focus on groups that are creating new and inspiring ways to advance gender equity and inclusion using the outdoors as a platform. The Force of Nature Fund helped us identify hundreds of organizations doing incredible work, and we’re proud to partner with our new grantees to learn and be inspired.”

REI selected the following 26 nonprofit organizations to receive grants totaling $500,000. Awards were based on the fund’s eligibility criteria. Grants range from $5,000 to $25,000.

This investment is part of REI’s broader community investment strategy, which contributed more than $9M in 2017 to nonprofits at the heart of the outdoor community. Since 1976, REI has invested more than $80 million to steward our nation’s public lands, trails, and waterways, and to promote youth development, health and wellness in the outdoors. REI continues to support these efforts through invitation-only grants. For more information, visit:  https://www.rei.com/stewardship/creating-access.

About the REI Co-op
REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of more than 16 million members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. REI has 150 stores in 36 states. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI-Garage.com or the free REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. You can take the trip of a lifetime with REI Adventures, a global leader in active adventure travel that runs more than 170 custom-designed itineraries worldwide. The REI Outdoor School is run by professionally-trained, expert-instructors who teach beginner- to advanced-level courses about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to—and steward—the outdoor places that inspire us all.

Source: REI

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Sears Holdings signs licensing agreements to expand Kenmore and DieHard brands worldwide

  • Kenmore and Kenmore Elite Floor Care Products to be Sold at Retailers Worldwide
  • DieHard Alkaline Batteries and Flashlights to be Sold at Retailers in Select Countries Internationally

HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill., 2017-Aug-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — Sears Holdings today (Aug 22, 2017) announced it has signed two licensing agreements that will broaden the reach of its Kenmore and DieHard brands internationally.

Cleva North America, Inc. will manufacture Kenmore and Kenmore Elite vacuums and accessories for distribution at retailers worldwide. The agreement applies to vacuum cleaners, stick vacuums, hand vacuums, robotic vacuums, carpet cleaners, bare floor cleaners, sweepers and accessories.

Dorcy, International will manufacture DieHard Alkaline batteries and flashlights for distribution in the U.S., Puerto Rico and the Caribbean plus Latin America and some locations in the South Pacific. The agreement renews and expands the existing distribution of these DieHard products and applies to: A, AA, AAA, C, D, 6 volt and 9 volt alkaline specialty batteries, as well as flashlights.

“The Kenmore brand is one of the most awarded and trusted American brands and is woven into the fabric of our home lifestyle,” said Tom Park, president of Kenmore, Craftsman and DieHard brands at Sears Holdings. “DieHard is America’s most trusted, reliable and preferred vehicle battery brand. Both of these agreements are examples of our expansion strategy to unleash the power of these iconic brands internationally. We will have direct and active involvement in building the business with our licensing partners and we’re confident that both Cleva and Dorcy will maintain our high quality standards,” Park added.

“We are excited about the opportunity to expand the Kenmore line of vacuums to key retailers and continue the legacy of the Kenmore brand,” said Bob Davis, president of Cleva North America, Inc. “Cleva is passionate in our commitment to bring top performing, high-quality Kenmore vacuums to the market.  With our ongoing attention to product innovation and consumer focused solutions, Cleva will be adding new products to its current award-winning portfolio of Kenmore vacuum cleaners.”

“We are thrilled to be partnering with the DieHard brand to bring this incredible product portfolio to a wider consumer audience,” said Tom Beckett, president and CEO of Dorcy International. “Dorcy’s global development team is working hard to create new and innovative products in this space that reflect the trust and integrity that have long been associated with the DieHard name.”

In other efforts to expand the reach of the Kenmore brand, Sears recently announced the launch of Kenmore products on Amazon.com.

Terms of the deals were not disclosed.

Forward-looking statements:
This press release contains forward-looking statements intended to qualify for the safe harbor from liability established by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Whenever used, words such as “will,” “expect,” and other terms of similar meaning are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements, including these, are based on the current beliefs and expectations of our management and are subject to significant risks, assumptions and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company’s control, that may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Detailed descriptions of other risks relating to Sears Holdings are discussed in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. While we believe that our forecasts and assumptions are reasonable, we caution that actual results may differ materially. We intend the forward-looking statements to speak only as of the time made and do not undertake to update or revise them as more information becomes available, except as required by law.

About Sears Holdings Corporation
Sears Holdings Corporation (NASDAQ: SHLD) is a leading integrated retailer focused on seamlessly connecting the digital and physical shopping experiences to serve our members – wherever, whenever and however they want to shop. Sears Holdings is home to Shop Your Way®, a social shopping platform offering members rewards for shopping at Sears and Kmart as well as with other retail partners across categories important to them. The Company operates through its subsidiaries, including Sears, Roebuck and Co. and Kmart Corporation, with full-line and specialty retail stores across the United States. For more information, visit www.searsholdings.com

About the Kenmore Brand
The Kenmore Brand is an industry leader in delivering trusted performance in the home with smart and stylish appliance innovations that help consumers do things quicker, easier and better. Recognized as a top appliance brand for over 100 years, the Kenmore brand continues to give consumers more time, efficiency and improved results for better living with industry-leading products across small and large appliance categories. For more information, visit www.kenmore.com, www.cookmore.com/press-kit/ or www.facebook.com/kenmore.

About the DieHard Brand
Introduced in 1967, Sears designed the original DieHard automotive battery to produce 35 percent more usable starting power than other similar batteries. Featuring a revolutionary tough, thin-walled case of translucent polypropylene plastic, which was 50 percent thinner than conventional black rubber-type battery enclosures, the design’s extra room meant bigger plates, more acid and extra starting power. During testing, not a single failure was reported in over 26,000 starts in temperatures ranging from sub-zero to more than 100 degrees, hence the name “DieHard.” See more DieHard history and compelling “Battery Torture” video at www.DieHard.com.

About Cleva North America, Inc.
Cleva North America, Inc. offers an award-winning portfolio of innovative brands, including Vacmaster Professional®, Vacmaster®, Duravac™, Armor All™ and LawnMaster®. With award-winning, proven experience in engineering and motor technology, Cleva incorporates the latest processes and highest standards for engineering, design, and production. The result is high-quality products with exceptional performance and durability. Cleva takes pride in producing a premium product at a great value. We will continue to usher in new, innovative products designed to meet our customers’ needs. For more information on Vacmaster®, visit vacmaster.com; like us on Facebook® (facebook.com/vacmastervacs); or follow us on Twitter® (@vacmastervacs).

About Dorcy International
A Privately held company, headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, DORCY has marketed Flashlight products and batteries for over 55 years and is proud to be business partners with many of the world’s largest retailers.  DORCY is a global enterprise with sales and marketing offices in Basel, Brisbane, Sydney, Hong Kong, Toronto, and is headquartered in Columbus Ohio.  Dorcy’s Competitive Advantages Include: In house design and engineering capability, the widest range of Lighting Products available, speed to market with evolving Market demands – LED, Fashion Trends, Materials and technology. With a complete complimentary Flashlight and Battery Program DORCY has the strongest promotions in the industry. http://www.Dorcy.com.

SOURCE: Sears, Roebuck and Co.

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BIXOLON releases new SDK for faster and easier integration of Chrome-based POS & Kiosk applications

Seongnam-si, Korea, 2017-Aug-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — BIXOLON Co., Ltd. a leading global mobile, label and POS printer manufacturer, today (August 22, 2017) announced a new software development kit to speed development of Chrome-based receipt printing applications. The first POS printer manufacturer to offer development tools for the Google Chrome OS™, BIXOLON created the new SDK in response to customer demand for faster and easier integration of Chrome-based POS & Kiosk applications. SDK benefits include lower app development costs, faster time to market, simple integration of printer functions and the ability to migrate BIXOLON printers to future platforms and applications as business needs change.

“Progressive retailers are adopting Google Web POS applications to engage mobile shoppers through targeting and personalization while leveraging the goldmine of shopper analytics,” noted John Kim, BIXOLON director of Marketing. “Chrome tablet and kiosk are gaining popularity for their speed, flexibility and IT efficiency. BIXOLON’s new Chrome SDK delivers programmers a simple way to develop fast, low-overhead mPOS printing functions into their Google Chrome applications.”

The Google Chrome Software Development Kit (SDK) enables developers to deliver mobile web-based applications across multiple platforms (Windows, Linux, OS X) with one code base (Javascript, HTML5 or CSS). The SDK includes a Javascript library file, sample code and API manual to speed development, enabling BIXOLON printers to print from any Chrome OS device or Chrome browser. The Chrome SDK enables developers to easily integrate printer functions including printing of text and images, one and two-dimensional barcodes (PDF417, QR code), check printer status and reroute print (routing of print files to an alternative printer when the primary printer is in error or offline). The SDK supports printer connection via Wi-Fi and Ethernet, with Bluetooth support slated for Q4, 2017.

Availability
The Chrome SDK is now available for the BIXOLON SRP-Q300 3-inch thermal cube printer, SRP-350PlusIII 3-inch thermal mPOS receipt printer and SRP-275III 3-inch impact POS printer. The SDK will be available for additional BIXOLON POS & Mobile printer models by Q4, 2017. Contact your BIXOLON sales representative for more information.

About BIXOLON 
BIXOLON is a leading global manufacturer of innovative, advanced printing technologies including point-of-sale receipt, label and mobile printers for a wide range of environments. Millions of BIXOLON printers are used today in retail, hospitality, healthcare, banking, ticketing, post/parcel, warehousing and other transaction-intensive industries. In 2017, for the fourth year in a row, BIXOLON was named global mobile receipt printer market leader by Japanese research company Chunichisha, securing a 32.9% market share. For more information, contact us at http://bixolonusa.com/, or follow us on these social channels: Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube

Contact:

Tel: +1 858 764 4580

Source: BIXOLON

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Stanley Black & Decker opens new Makerspace in Maryland

Stanley Black & Decker opens new Makerspace in Maryland

 

TOWSON, Md., 2017-Aug-21 — /EPR Retail News/ — Stanley Black & Decker (NYSE: SWK) today (Aug. 17, 2017) announced the grand opening of its state-of-the-art Makerspace, a 4,500-square- foot workshop dedicated to helping Stanley Black & Decker employees bring innovative new ideas to life, as well as to serving as a resource for the Greater Baltimore community to engage in meaningful maker experiences.

Jeff Ansell, President of Global Tools & Storage for Stanley Black & Decker, said, “At Stanley Black & Decker, we are a company of innovators, makers and creators, and this new space will give our employees an environment where they can focus on turning their ideas into real working prototypes that will become the products of the future. Stanley Black & Decker is built on 175 years of innovation, demonstrated most recently with the launch of our DEWALT FLEXVOLT®. As we continue to grow organically and by adding the iconic American brand Craftsman and Lenox and Irwin businesses, we are excited to reinforce that commitment to innovation. By opening a new Makerspace right here in Maryland we are rededicated to not only inventing, but also making the innovations that will change the way we live tomorrow.”

“Stanley Black & Decker’s new Makerspace creates a collaborative environment where company employees can develop new products, and offers local students and educators access to state-of-the-art resources to pursue research projects,” said Governor Larry Hogan. “Maryland’s economy continues to be driven by innovation, and having cutting-edge workshops like this one is critical to growing jobs, spurring new advances, and helping our communities thrive.”

The new Makerspace is another expansion of Stanley Black & Decker’s Maryland-based presence, which began in 2010 when the Black & Decker company merged with The Stanley Works. Today, the company employs more than 2,100 people in the region, and has invested approximately $60 million in facility upgrades. In addition, its growth plans call for nearly 400 immediate new hires in a wide variety of positions, with a focus on innovation and engineering.

Stanley Black & Decker has already partnered with local universities to develop a curriculum, framework and toolset for future Makerspaces and to offer a space for students and faculty to work on research projects. Ongoing partnership with these and other leading academic institutions will be a cornerstone of the company’s continued engagement with the community. In addition, the company expects to expand this to a public-facing maker program sometime in 2018.

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

Media Contact:

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

SOURCE: Stanley Black & Decker

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Tractor Supply Company starts construction of new distribution center in Frankfort, NY

BRENTWOOD, Tenn., 2017-Aug-10 — /EPR Retail News/ — Tractor Supply Company (NASDAQ:TSCO), the largest rural lifestyle retail store chain in the United States, announced today ( Aug. 09, 2017) it has officially begun construction of a new distribution center in Frankfort, NY.

“The addition of our new distribution center in New York is important to our continued growth, as the facility will provide Tractor Supply the capacity we need to further our store expansion in the Northeast Corridor of the country,” said Greg Sandfort, Chief Executive Officer. “We are always looking for new ways to reach our customers as quickly and efficiently as possible, and this distribution center will play a critical role in our digital fulfillment strategy. We’re excited to begin the building process and look forward to a longstanding partnership with the great Frankfort community.”

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo said, “We have invested more in the Mohawk Valley in six years than the region had seen in decades and it’s paying off.  Unemployment is down, while private sector jobs are up and we’ve successfully attracted Tractor Supply Company to Herkimer County, which will soon create 350 good jobs for hard-working Upstate New Yorkers. This is a huge win for Herkimer County and the entire region, and we look forward to a long, successful partnership with the company.”

Tractor Supply executives and local government officials held a ceremonial groundbreaking event earlier today, August 9, at the site of the Frankfort distribution center located in the Frankfort 5S South Business Park. The facility is expected to begin shipping by the end of 2018 and will be approximately 930,500 square-foot in size, with the potential to create more than 350 new full-time jobs over the next six years.

“This groundbreaking is the result of several years of work and dedication by many to bring a tenant to the Frankfort 5S South Business Park,” said Chairman Bernard Peplinski, Sr., of the Herkimer County Legislature. “As the walls go up and the doors open later next year, the residents of Herkimer County and the surrounding area will benefit from the additional jobs and resulting economic growth as we work with Tractor Supply.”

Senator James L. Seward said, “Whenever I discuss economic development for the Mohawk Valley, the conversation inevitably turns to the Frankfort 5S South Business Park, also known as the Pumpkin Patch.  Tractor Supply’s arrival is great news and the project will stimulate our regional economy leading to future growth and more good paying jobs for our families.”

Assemblyman Anthony Brindisi of Utica said, “Tractor Supply Company will be an outstanding tenant and will bring job opportunities to many area residents, which will help businesses in surrounding communities as well. Through securing state funding toward the cost of a new water tower and infrastructure improvements, we were able to help make this project a reality. I want to acknowledge the Herkimer County Legislature, the Herkimer County IDA, and everyone else who partnered on this very significant investment in our community.”

Tractor Supply currently operates 1,630 stores in 49 states across the country and seven distribution centers in various locations including Casa Grande, AZ, Franklin, KY, Hagerstown, MD, Macon, GA, Pendleton, IN, Waco, TX, and Waverly, NE.  Upon completion of the Frankfort facility in late 2018, Tractor Supply will operate eight distribution centers in total.

For more information on Tractor Supply Company, or to shop their products online, please visit www.tractorsupply.com.

About Tractor Supply Company
Founded in 1938, Tractor Supply Company is the largest rural lifestyle retail store chain in the United States.  At July 1, 2017, the Company operated 1,630 Tractor Supply stores in 49 states and an e-commerce website at www.tractorsupply.com.  Tractor Supply stores are focused on supplying the lifestyle needs of recreational farmers and ranchers and others who enjoy the rural lifestyle, as well as tradesmen and small businesses.  Stores are located primarily in towns outlying major metropolitan markets and in rural communities.  The Company offers the following comprehensive selection of merchandise: (1) equine, livestock, pet and small animal products, including items necessary for their health, care, growth and containment; (2) hardware, truck, towing and tool products; (3) seasonal products, including heating, lawn and garden items, power equipment, gifts and toys; (4) work/recreational clothing and footwear; and (5) maintenance products for agricultural and rural use.

Tractor Supply Company also owns and operates Petsense, a small-box pet specialty supply retailer focused on meeting the needs of pet owners, primarily in small and mid-size communities, and offering a variety of pet products and services.  At July 1, 2017, the Company operated 160 Petsense stores in 26 states.  For more information on Petsense, visit www.petsense.com.

Media:

Alecia Pulman/Brittany Rae Fraser
ICR
(203) 682-8200

Source: Tractor Supply Company/globenewswire

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Tractor Supply Company declares quarterly cash dividend of $0.27 per share

BRENTWOOD, Tenn., 2017-Aug-09 — /EPR Retail News/ — Tractor Supply Company (NASDAQ:TSCO), the largest rural lifestyle retail store chain in the United States, today (Aug. 08, 2017) announced that its Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.27 per share of the Company’s common stock.

The dividend will be paid on September 6, 2017, to stockholders of record as of the close of business on August 21, 2017.

About Tractor Supply Company
Founded in 1938, Tractor Supply Company is the largest rural lifestyle retail store chain in the United States. At July 1, 2017, the Company operated 1,630 Tractor Supply stores in 49 states and an e-commerce website at www.tractorsupply.com.  Tractor Supply stores are focused on supplying the lifestyle needs of recreational farmers and ranchers and others who enjoy the rural lifestyle, as well as tradesmen and small businesses.  Stores are located primarily in towns outlying major metropolitan markets and in rural communities.  The Company offers the following comprehensive selection of merchandise: (1) equine, livestock, pet and small animal products, including items necessary for their health, care, growth and containment; (2) hardware, truck, towing and tool products; (3) seasonal products, including heating, lawn and garden items, power equipment, gifts and toys; (4) work/recreational clothing and footwear; and (5) maintenance products for agricultural and rural use.

Tractor Supply Company also owns and operates Petsense, a small-box pet specialty supply retailer focused on meeting the needs of pet owners, primarily in small and mid-size communities, and offering a variety of pet products and services.  At July 1, 2017, the Company operated 160 Petsense stores in 26 states.  For more information on Petsense, visit www.petsense.com.

Contact:
Kurt Barton
Chief Financial Officer

Christine Skold
Vice President, Investor Relations and Corporate Communications
(615) 440-4000

Investors:
John Rouleau/Rachel Schacter
ICR

Media:
Alecia Pulman/Brittany Rae Fraser
ICR
(203) 682-8200

Source: Tractor Supply Company

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REI Co-op unveils its next spring’s new gear collection

New gear collection designed using insights from co-op members and employees

SALT LAKE CITY, 2017-Jul-31 — /EPR Retail News/ — REI Co-op’s in-house brand released its plans for next spring’s new gear collection during the Outdoor Retailer industry tradeshow. Highlights include outerwear featuring GORE-TEX® Active fabric technology that will be on display at the show, a gathered-end elevated sleep system and an update to its iconic Half Dome tent series. The 2018 line will also feature a national parks-inspired series of Flash 18 packs to support our national public lands.

The co-op’s in-house design team continues to bring customers richer, more innovative ways to enjoy the outdoors. Every product the co-op designs goes through its Cooperative Design philosophy, where designers work with members and employees to gain inspiration throughout the design process.

“It really is what being a co-op is all about. Having members and employees influence design innovation throughout our process allows us to create gear our members really want instead of trying to fill gaps,” said Nasahn Sheppard, divisional vice president for REI Co-op Private Brands. “We’re encouraging our design team to think outside of the box, and it’s changing the way people play outdoors.”

REI will put women first as part of its #ForceOfNature initiative. For spring, the REI Co-op brand will offer women a wider selection of extended and tall/petite sizing in travel, outdoor wear and fitness apparel, as well as performance and technical outerwear, sleeping bags and packs.

Outerwear
This spring, the co-op will deliver a new series of outerwear using GORE-TEX technology.

“These jackets and pants will meet varying degrees of activity in the backcountry,” Sheppard said. “We are impressed with how Gore has innovated their new material, which will help us bring our outerwear offerings to the next level.”

  • The Drypoint GTX® Jacket for men and women is designed for minimalist performance for hiking and backpacking. This jacket uses the next generation of GORE-TEX Active fabric, a significantly lighter, more breathable three-layer fabric that improves comfort and durability. Price: $249.
  • The Stormbolt GTX Jacket, nicknamed the “backcountry bomber,” is ideal for various adventures. This is the burliest shell in the line, offering protection from all types of backcountry weather. This three-layer waterproof, breathable shell is a fully featured jacket with macro and micro ripstop fabric to withstand abrasion resistance. Price: $279.
  • The Vaporush WINDSTOPPER® soft shell jacket and pants offer maximum breathability and stretch mobility for men and women. The lightweight outerwear provides free range of motion and breathability, and repels wind and rain for quick-paced backcountry adventures. Price: $169 (jacket) / $139 (pants).

Hammock Sleep Systems
As a new category, the co-op has seen sales for suspended sleep systems increase more than 100 percent compared with last year. To complement this trend, and deliver yet another comfortable sleeping option for backpacking, the co-op will introduce a new Flash Air hammock that features a lightweight, traditional gathered-end design. This style offers side sleepers a different suspended sleep option, compared with the flatter bridge-style hammock that comes with the Quarter Dome Air.

Tents
The Half Dome tent will receive an update to increase overall volume and livability. This two-vestibule dome series includes one-, two-, three- and four-person tent options. These plus-sized tents add additional length and width to the floor space, as well as additional volume throughout the tent. The fly has been improved and expanded to provide an easily customized covered area for livability and gear storage. REI will offer various colors as well as a Mount Rainier specialty design, available online in early spring.

Packs
REI’s Flash 18 packs are necessary accessories for any outing or backcountry adventure. The co-op has partnered with the National Park Foundation to offer eight customized national parks designs highlighting Mount Rainier, Denali, Yosemite, Grand Canyon, Great Smoky Mountains, Acadia, Voyageurs and Rocky Mountain. Each store will offer its two closest national parks designs regionally, but all designs will be offered on REI.com. The co-op will give 10 percent of profits of these packs back to the National Parks Foundation. This builds on the co-op’s historic multi-year, multi-million dollar partnership promise to help protect and preserve our beloved public lands.

The Traverse pack series is designed for maximum comfort during multi-day backpacking adventures. In 2018, a 35-liter version will be added to the collection, while the entire series (65-, 70- and 85-liter packs) will offer an updated, improved design for added comfort.

These highlights, as well as active wear and travel collections, will begin arriving in REI stores and on REI.com starting in January 2018.

About REI Co-op
REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of more than 16 million members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. REI has 149 stores in 36 states. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI-Garage.com or the free REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. You can take the trip of a lifetime with REI Adventures, a global leader in active adventure travel that runs more than 170 custom-designed itineraries on every continent. REI’s Outdoor School is run by professionally-trained, expert-instructors who teach beginner- to advanced-level courses about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to–and steward–the outdoor places that inspire us.

Source: REI

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

About Stanley Black & Decker

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

Investor Contacts:

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

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

Media Contacts:

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

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

SOURCE: Stanley Black & Decker

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Stanley Black & Decker opens new Breakthrough Innovation center in Boston

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

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

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

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

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

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

About Stanley Black & Decker

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

Contact:

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

SOURCE: Stanley Black & Decker

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Tractor Supply Company to release its second quarter 2017 results on Wednesday, July 26, 2017

BRENTWOOD, Tenn, 2017-Jul-21 — /EPR Retail News/ — Tractor Supply Company (NASDAQ:TSCO), the largest rural lifestyle retail store chain in the United States, intends to release its second quarter 2017 results after the market closes on Wednesday, July 26, 2017.  In conjunction with this release, the management of Tractor Supply Company will host a conference call at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time on Wednesday, July 26, 2017, which will be simultaneously webcast live over the Internet at IR.TractorSupply.com.

Please allow extra time prior to the call to visit the site and download the streaming media software required to listen to the Internet broadcast.

A replay of the webcast will be available at IR.TractorSupply.com shortly after the conference call concludes.

About Tractor Supply Company
Founded in 1938, Tractor Supply Company is the largest rural lifestyle retail store chain in the United States. At April 1, 2017, the Company operated 1,617 Tractor Supply stores in 49 states and an e-commerce website at www.tractorsupply.com. Tractor Supply stores are focused on supplying the lifestyle needs of recreational farmers and ranchers and others who enjoy the rural lifestyle, as well as tradesmen and small businesses.  Stores are located primarily in towns outlying major metropolitan markets and in rural communities.  The Company offers the following comprehensive selection of merchandise: (1) equine, livestock, pet and small animal products, including items necessary for their health, care, growth and containment; (2) hardware, truck, towing and tool products; (3) seasonal products, including heating, lawn and garden items, power equipment, gifts and toys; (4) work/recreational clothing and footwear; and (5) maintenance products for agricultural and rural use.

Tractor Supply Company also owns and operates Petsense, a small-box pet specialty supply retailer focused on meeting the needs of pet owners, primarily in small and mid-size communities, and offering a variety of pet products and services.  At April 1, 2017, the Company operated 152 Petsense stores in 26 states.  For more information on Petsense, visit www.petsense.com.

Contact:

Kurt D. Barton
Chief Financial Officer

Christine Skold
Vice President, Investor Relations and Corporate Communications
(615) 440-4000

Investors:
John Rouleau/Rachel Schacter

Media:
Alecia Pulman/Brittany Rae Fraser
ICR
(203) 682-8200

Source: Tractor Supply Company/globenewswire

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Stanley Black & Decker declares quarterly cash dividend of $0.63 per common share

NEW BRITAIN, Conn., 2017-Jul-21 — /EPR Retail News/ — Stanley Black & Decker (NYSE: SWK) announced today ( July 19, 2017) that its Board of Directors approved a $0.05 increase of its quarterly cash dividend to $0.63 per common share. This marks the 50th consecutive annual dividend increase for the company. The dividend is payable on Tuesday, September 19, 2017 to shareholders of record as of the close of business on Friday, September 1, 2017.

Stanley Black & Decker’s President and CEO, James M. Loree, commented, “A strong and growing dividend continues to be a critical component of our shareholder value proposition.  I am pleased to continue the trend of consecutive increases, which has now spanned five decades.”

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

Stanley Black & Decker Investor Contacts:

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

Michelle Hards
Director, Investor Relations
(860) 827-3913
michelle.hards@sbdinc.com

SOURCE: Stanley Black & Decker

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Cabela’s Incorporated to release 2Q 2017 financial results on Thursday, August 3, 2017

SIDNEY, Neb., 2017-Jul-20 — /EPR Retail News/ — Cabela’s Incorporated (NYSE:CAB) announced today (Jul. 18, 2017) it is scheduled to release second quarter 2017 financial results before the market opens on Thursday, August 3, 2017. Cabela’s will not host a conference call with analysts and investors or provide guidance in connection with the results and does not plan to do so for future quarters while the acquisition of the Company by Bass Pro Shops is pending.

About Cabela’s Incorporated

Cabela’s Incorporated, headquartered in Sidney, Nebraska, is a leading specialty retailer, and the world’s largest direct marketer, of hunting, fishing, camping and related outdoor merchandise. Since the Company’s founding in 1961, Cabela’s® has grown to become one of the most well-known outdoor recreation brands in the world, and has long been recognized as the World’s Foremost Outfitter®. Through Cabela’s growing number of retail stores and its well-established direct business, it offers a wide and distinctive selection of high-quality outdoor products at competitive prices while providing superior customer service. Cabela’s also issues the Cabela’s CLUB® Visa credit card, which serves as its primary customer loyalty rewards program.Cabela’s stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “CAB.”

Investors:
Cabela’s Incorporated
Andrew Weingardt
308-255-7428

Media:
Cabela’s Incorporated
308-255-1204

Source: Cabela’s Incorporated

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LCP: ERF Electrical celebrating its 50th anniversary with the opening of new, larger trade premises at The Dunstall Hill Estate

London, 2017-Jul-10 — /EPR Retail News/ — A leading electrical wholesaler is celebrating its 50th anniversary with the opening of new, larger trade premises in Wolverhampton.

ERF Electrical Wholesalers Ltd is relocating from Willenhall Road to unit 2, The Dunstall Hill Estate, after agreeing a 10-year lease with leading commercial property investment company LCP, which owns and manages the estate.

The 4,933 sq ft unit is double the size of its previous premises and will enable the family-run business to increase its stock holding, supporting the growth of the Wolverhampton branch, which has been in the city since 1979.

Simon Jones, ERF Electrical project director, said the new premises forms part of the company’s expansion plans across the region. It has nine branches in the East and West Midlands and another in Andover, Hampshire. It hopes to open a further two branches this year and over the next five years aims to continue investing in opening new businesses.

The new Wolverhampton branch is the first to open this year. It currently employs five people and there may be new employment opportunities in the next few months.

“The location and the layout of the unit allows ERF to offer an unprecedented service to customers who want to visit the trade counter or who require a delivery service to their premises or direct to site,” said Simon.

“Currently this is the only unit ERF have with LCP, however due to the service we have received from them we would certainly work with them to find other units in the area to support our expansion programme.”

Paula James, LCP industrial lettings manager, said: “The Dunstall Hill Estate is a very popular business location being so close to the city centre and to the motorway network.”

The Dunstall Hill Estate is accessed off Gorsebrook Road, close to the entrance of Dunstall Hill Racecourse. The main A449 Wolverhampton to Stafford Road is approximately 250 yards from the site, providing access to Wolverhampton city centre, and to junction 2 of the M54 and the wider national motorway network. Existing tenants include Gunnebo UK Ltd, Wyko Group and Heinrich Georg (UK) Ltd.

Contact:

kyates@lcpproperties.co.uk

Source: LCP