Posted on April 30, 2020 by EPR Retail News Editors

RCH’s partnership with Jeunes Restaurateurs d’Europe (JRE) to help develop the cash desks of the future

TREVISO, Italy, 2020-Apr-29 — /EPR Retail News/ — RCH continues to champion the highest level of restaurateurism by forming an alliance with Jeunes Restaurateurs d’Europe (JRE), one of the world’s most prestigious culinary institutes. This alliance will see JRE integrating the RCH brand into their social media and press statements, along with presence on the website and JRE annual guide.

In return, and in recognition that the creativity of gastronomy needs to be supported by effective business practices, RCH will be engaging in a range of collaborative activities with JRE to help encourage and develop the next generation of chefs and restaurateurs, both in terms of the creative and commercial ambitions. This will include both event sponsorship and product support.

JRE, one of the most prestigious culinary organisations in the world, brings together young Restaurateurs and Chefs who share their talent and passion for food with likeminded people. Founded in 1974 in France, JRE is now active in 16 countries with 350 affiliated restaurants and is looking to expand on a global scale. With over 180 Michelin stars and 4,000 Gault&Millau points between them, members of JRE combine a love of creativity and innovation with a respect for local products and tradition.

The key slogan for JRE is the idea of ‘never-ending passion’, and this closely echoes the mentality that RCH seeks to embody within their product range. In developing cash register systems for a number of industries, RCH seeks to get deeply involved in the intricacies of their clients’ operations – understanding how the EPOS process impacts the full business model, and not merely the cash-taking elements of operation.

Resultantly, RCH have developed products – such as the ATOS range – which are perfectly positioned to augment restaurant operations on nearly every level. Not only are RCH systems deisgned to compliment the aesthetics of the dining environment, but they also provide levels of data analysis that can completely revolutionise the entire restaurant process; from menu design and purchase, to wastage control, to Customer Relationship Management (CRM), to full financial/taxation conformance, and beyond.

A key aspect of the partnership with JRE will be RCH’s endeavours to develop parts of their ATOS system to specifically compliment the needs of JRE. In this way, RCH is able to develop a long-lasting, committed relationship with JRE, providing mutual benefits: RCH gains knowledge not just of existing market trends that could be integrated into future product updates, but the progressive, creative innovations that JRE are at the forefront of. Similarly, JRE are able to integrate top-level commercial technologies into their operations – significantly improving the efficiency of their booking and reservations processes, along with a whole host of other benefits.

Fillipo Saporito, President JRE Italy, says of the partnership: “When my wife and I opened the ‘La Leggenda dei Frati’ restaurant in 2002, the first big goal was to be part of this big family. Today I am proud to be the leader of this family, and I do so with commitment and passion, giving my deepest thanks to all of the partners who join us, and echo our own sense of passion and dedication.”

Stefano de Pra, President & CEO of RCH Group SpA, adds his own insight, stating that “It would be tempting to draw from our Italian roots as reason for why we are so committed to the forwardance of the restaurant community through our partnership with JRE – the Italians of course being famed for their exceptional cuisine. But in reality RCH is an international operation, and JRE has an international reach”. De Pra continues: “A love of good food is the language of every culture, not just ours. This collaboration sees us not just supporting upcoming restaurateurs, but benefiting from their verve, determination, insight and creativity to help us develop the cash desks of the future.”

RCH looks forward to developing its first collaborative event with JRE. Until then, it wishes all operators within the restaurant trade the best of luck and keep being inspired by passion.

More information about RCH Group Spa is available at http://www.rch-group.com/

About JRE
Jeunes Restaurateurs (JRE) is an association of young chefs in Europe which has been breathing new and fresh life to the culinary arts since 1974, in keeping with their slogan “Never-ending passion.” In doing so, JRE combines cuisine of the very highest standard with the courage to introduce innovations to the culinary tradition of the respective region. Jeunes Restaurateurs has restaurants in 16 European countries – around 80 of them in Germany alone. These include establishments run by famous chefs known from TV, such as Alexander Herrmann and Cornelia Poletto. More info to be found here: https://www.jre.eu/

SOURCE: EuropaWire

Posted on January 28, 2020 by EPR Retail News Editors

RCH Group to exhibit at EuroShop, February 16-20, 2020

TREVISO, Italy, 2020-Jan-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — This February (16-20), RCH Group will be exhibiting at EuroShop, the world’s largest trade fair for retail investment requirements. On booth #G49 in Hall 6 the company will introduce a number of new POS solutions – responding to the future-oriented and dynamic trends of the retail industry and building upon the technological and aesthetic capabilities that sit at the core of RCH’s product development.

Improving the strategic abilities of small and medium operations with improved analytics and accountancy

A key element of RCH’s attendance at the show will be the international debut of the WALLE 8T – a product which aims to evolve the concept of Smart ECR and increase the ability of small and medium retail operations to engage in effective fiscal management and financial analytics.

WALLE 8T constitutes a POS unit that contains an 8″ TFT color video keyboard and capacitive touchscreen, with high brightness and 1024×600 resolution. It also includes a high quality graphic thermal printer. However, whilst the WALLE 8T contains all of the high-level physical specifications that are associated with RCH products standard, including a highly elegant design, what sets this new model apart is the high degree of interoperability that is facilitated by the use of Android-based software. This software provides exceptional usability by unifying interface and functionality, allowing businesses to create an adaptable, tailored, flexible solution to their money handling activities.

With intuitive front-end operability and highly flexible back-end analytics and accountancy features, even small retailers now have the opportunity to understand their business and make strategic decisions based on the data they generate.

In addition to the WALLE 8T, RCH will also be demonstrating a range of new product evolutions, with a focus on meeting the aesthetic needs of retail outlets.

Novelty with a Vintage look

Whilst RCH always prides itself on the technological developments that increase the functionality and usability of its products, there is also recognition that supporting the strategic goals of customers will not always spring exclusively from technological innovation alone. The aesthetics and atmosphere of retail venues are key strategic components for a business, and cash registers constitute an incredibly visible element within a store.

For this reason, RCH is proud to introduce the Cortina 59. With metal drawer and printer, the Cortina embodies a stylish, vintage design that fits well into retail environments that are seeking a more nostalgic aesthetic that reminds of past cash registers. Available in five different colours (white, black, blue, red, yellow), the Cortina 59 doesn’t just meet the functional needs of a commercial environment, but in itself becomes a beautiful centrepiece – actively contributing as a piece of decoration and functional furniture. Electronic based capabilities with all of the RCH functionality you expect, embodied in true mechanical charm.

NEW Robust POS product

For retail environments that do favour a modern and slick aesthetic, at the other end of the RCH design spectrum is the A-IRON. Part of the ATOS 15 range – and therefore embodying all of the usability, versatility and functionality expected from RCH’s signature line – the A-IRON combines aluminium and steel into the physical POS unit to enhance an image of modernity and elegance, with clean lines and a solid appearance.

President and CEO of RCH Stefano De Pra, stated: “Our path to innovation is a combination of creativity and market needs, elegant design and functional aspects. Technological innovation sits at the core of our products – as its beating heart, but a diverse range of beautiful external aesthetics makes them fit-for-purpose in a variety of retail contexts. The novel products we are introducing this year at EuroShop will meet the expectations of an international market that appreciates reliability, the use of resistant, robust materials and considered design that combines to create easy-to-use and decorative POS products.”

More information about RCH Group SpA and its products is available at http://www.rch-group.com/

SOURCE: EuropaWire

Posted on August 27, 2018 by EPR Retail News Editors

DATA4 Product Highlights at Kiosk Summit 2018: Cash Desk K2 Slim; ATOS 15 ELEGANT; Open Standards-Based Hardware; Functional and Elegant Designs

DATA4 Brings Pioneering Payment Systems to Kiosk Summit 2018

TREVISO, Italy, 2018-Aug-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — DATA4, manufacturer of innovative self-service and automatic systems for the payment of goods and services in cash or electronically, will showcase its latest POS innovations at Kiosk Summit 2018 on stand 6. Kiosk Summit is Europe’s only dedicated event for organisations and individuals, who utilise self-service technology to interact with their clients, streamline their customer journey and gain increased efficiency by using cutting-edge interactivity. The event will take place on September 27h next in London.

This year, DATA4, RCH Group-member, will exhibit its innovative solutions integrated with RCH’s advanced point of sale systems for the retail, food and beverage, and the public administration sector:

“We are delighted to have the opportunity to return to Kiosk Summit this year and demonstrate to visitors how our revolutionary payment kiosks can be an additional Point of Sale,” said Michele Stecca, General Manager, DATA4 Srl. Cash Desk K2, in particular, is already proving its worth in helping to reduce queues and the need for people management in busy airport terminals, exhibitions, cinemas, museums and restaurants. In today’s rapid-paced world, the right tools and technology must be in place to streamline the customer journey and speed up the transactions process while at the same time ensuring the highest standard of service. DATA4’s state-of-the-art payment systems make this possible.”

Product Highlights at Kiosk Summit 2018

Cash Desk K2 Slim
Retaining all the features of a multi-payment kiosk for the issuance of receipts and/or tickets, Cash Desk K2 Slim is an automatic device specifically destined for electronic payments. Eliminating the task of handling cash transactions results in a product that’s thinner and smoother in the movements. The device boasts a fast and simple user interface, indicating each operation to be carried out step by step with the aid of visual indicators (LEDs). A multi-lingual and interactive menu allows customers to pay for their goods or services in three easy steps.

For the merchant, the self-service Cask Desk K2 Slim can significantly improve and streamline operations so that long queues are avoided, cash handling is eliminated, and staffing requirements and labour cost are reduced. For the catering industry, hygiene can be improved as the person responsible for preparing foods no longer needs to handle physical money.

ATOS 15 ELEGANT
ATOS 15 Elegant combines pure elegance with high-end technology and comes with a 16:9 fully adjustable monitor that is supported by the stability of a solid chrome-effect base. Efficient hardware coupled with intelligent software makes ATOS 15 Elegant the ideal tool for any Point of Sale. The unit comes with an optional rear customer display that completes its maximum expression of functional elegance. This customer display is available in two different sizes, allowing the merchant to either present the customer with a list of purchased items or alternatively to display its own graphics visualising the consumptions on sale. This back graphic display can be cleverly used as an advertising tool to broadcast the latest news and in-store promotions, giving added value to any POS.

Multiple connections including Ethernet, USB and Micro SD allowing the ATOS 15 Elegant to pair with printers, tablets and scanners are all standard. An NFC reader, an MFC magnetic card and an I-Button are additional options with this innovative and eye-catching POS system.

Open Standards-Based Hardware
All of DATA4’s and RCH’s innovative solutions are based on open source technology and can be easily integrated with various third-party applications and systems. Each system is designed in-house by the company’s Research and Development teams, delivering efficient and streamlined technical support so that the payment terminals fully communicate with third-party systems. The result is a secure, reliable product for every system requirement.

Functional and Elegant Designs
Highly intelligent on the inside, elegant and compact on the outside, each product has a distinguished and modern design made in Italy. A DATA4 and an RCH product is characterised by its perfect combination of elegance with the simplicity of functionality.

More information about DATA4 and its products is available at http://www.data4.it/?lang=en

SOURCE: EuropaWire

Posted on March 9, 2018 by Retail News Editor

The Starbucks Foundation announces investment and partnership strategy with Malala Fund aimed at empowering women

: The Starbucks Foundation announces investment and partnership strategy with Malala Fund aimed at empowering women

The Starbucks Foundation’s multi-year strategy will promote leadership and economic empowerment opportunities for women and families in coffee, tea and cocoa growing communities
Partnership with Malala Fund will expand the organization’s Gulmakai Network of education champions in India and Latin America
Malala Yousafzai curates an exclusive playlist for International Women’s Day to be played in 10,000 Starbucks® stores across the U.S. and Canada on March 8

SEATTLE, 2018-Mar-09 — /EPR Retail News/ — More than 130 million young women and girls around the world do not have the opportunity to go to primary or secondary school, representing a generation of young people with limited ability to access economic opportunities, create their own livelihoods, and become leaders in their communities[1]. In many rural, remote communities around the world, that challenge is made exponentially worse by poverty, conflict, and gender inequality. Recognizing this global crisis – and the opportunity to drive long-term impact and social change – The Starbucks Foundation announced today a multi-year investment and partnership strategy aimed at empowering at least 250,000 women and families in coffee, tea and cocoa growing communities globally by 2025.

To launch this effort, The Starbucks Foundation unveiled a new global partnership with Nobel Prize laureate Malala Yousafzai’s organization, Malala Fund, towards a shared vision that an investment in young women and families can have a transformative impact on communities. Through this partnership, Malala Fund will work with Starbucks to promote girls’ education and expand leadership opportunities for young women in coffee and tea growing communities in India and Latin America.

“I want to thank Starbucks for believing in my dream of a world where girls can choose their own future. With their support, Malala Fund will help educators and activists in developing countries get more girls in school,” Malala Yousafzai, Nobel Laureate and co-founder of Malala Fund.

The Starbucks Foundation’s partnership with Malala Fund will build on its ongoing investments in coffee, tea and cocoa growing communities worldwide with organizations like Mercy Corps, Eastern Congo Initiative, and Heifer International which since 2005 have collectively impacted more than 450,000 people. With a deeper focus on women and families, Starbucks will also be able to accelerate its broader goal to improve the lives of at least one million coffee farmers and workers by 2025.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Leaders

The Starbucks Foundation aims to promote leadership opportunities for women and families in coffee, tea and cocoa growing communities to break down barriers to education, clean water and sanitation, and economic opportunities. Through its multi-year strategic partnership with Starbucks, Malala Fund will expand its work in advocacy, investment, and amplifying young women and girls’ voices, including growing its Gulmakai Network of education champions to coffee and tea growing communities in India and Latin America. The partnership will help expand non-traditional educational opportunities in those communities and scale leadership opportunities for young women with a goal to inspire the next generation of civically engaged leaders. Starbucks also plans to connect partners (employees) with Malala Fund’s Gulmakai Network champions to create additional leadership and engagement opportunities.

“We believe women and families hold the key to long-term empowerment and social change,” said Virginia Tenpenny, executive director for The Starbucks Foundation and vice president, Global Social Impact at Starbucks. “Looking ahead, we want to ensure our partnerships connect women with education and leadership opportunities needed to create healthy homes and sustainable livelihoods – for themselves, their families, and future generations. We are proud to join with Malala Fund to invest in young women so they may become leaders in their communities and achieve their dreams and aspirations.”

Malala Yousafzai Creates Starbucks Playlist for International Women’s Day

In honor of International Women’s Day on March 8, Starbucks today announced Yousafzai will share a specially curated playlist of songs by female artists from 16 countries to be played in more than 10,000 participating stores across the U.S. and Canada. The playlist is also available on the Starbucks page on Spotify.

Towards a Shared Future in Sustainable Coffee

Starbucks has a long history of working with coffee, tea and cocoa origin communities to address their most critical needs such as access to water, sanitation, health and education. With The Starbucks Foundation’s focus on advancing leadership and economic opportunities for 250,000 women and families by 2025, the organization will build upon this work and help ensure even more families benefit. Through its global partnerships, Starbucks and The Starbucks Foundation are helping to improve the lives of at least one million people in coffee communities with the following initiatives:

A commitment to 100% ethically sourced coffee – through partnerships with Conservational International and the Sustainable Coffee Challenge, Starbucks is championing a global effort to make coffee the world’s first sustainable agricultural commodity.
More than $20 million in Origin Grants from The Starbucks Foundation since 2005 to organizations like Mercy Corps, Eastern Congo Initiative, Heifer International and others to support smallholder farming families with vocational training, increased access to water and health services, and greater economic opportunity in coffee and tea-growing communities.
A commitment to invest $50 million in the Starbucks Global Farmer Fund to provide financing to coffee farmers. By providing access to capital, farmers have the ability to make strategic investments in their infrastructure, offering the stability they need to manage ongoing complexities so that there is a future for them and the industry. To date, the Fund has invested more than $22 million in loans impacting more than 40,000 farmers.
Farmer Support Centers in key coffee producing countries around the world, including Costa Rica, Colombia, Mexico, China, Guatemala, Rwanda, Tanzania, Ethiopia, and Indonesia. There, farmers get free access to the latest findings of Starbucks top agronomists, including new varietals of disease-resistant trees, and advanced soil management techniques. Starbucks goal is to build upon traditional growing methods to help farmers continue to improve both the quality of their crops, and their profitability, ensuring the future of high quality coffees for everyone.

About The Starbucks Foundation

Established in 1997, The Starbucks Foundation has strengthened communities around the world by advancing opportunities for youth, veterans, refugees and coffee, tea and cocoa farmers and their families, supporting communities affected by disaster, and promoting civic engagement. The Starbucks Foundation is a U.S. 501 (c)(3) charitable organization under U.S. law, and receives funding primarily from Starbucks Corporation and private donations. Learn more at https://www.starbucks.com/responsibility/community/starbucks-foundation

About Malala Fund

Malala Fund is working for a world where all girls can learn and lead without fear. Learn more at www.malala.org.

MEDIA CONTACT:

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

SOURCE: Starbucks Corporation

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Posted on March 6, 2018 by Retail News Editor

JCPenney announces 4Q 2017 financial and full year results

Fourth Quarter Comparable Sales Increase 2.6%
Outstanding Debt Reduced by Over $600 Million in 2017

PLANO, Texas, 2018-Mar-06 — /EPR Retail News/ — J. C. Penney Company, Inc. (NYSE: JCP) today (Mar. 2, 2018) announced financial results for its fiscal fourth quarter and full year ended Feb. 3, 2018. Comparable sales increased 2.6 % for the fourth quarter and increased 0.1 % for full year 2017. Fourth quarter earnings per share was $0.81 and full year net loss per share was ($0.37). Fourth quarter adjusted earnings per share was $0.57 and full year adjusted earnings per share was $0.22. A reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP financial measures is included in the schedules accompanying the consolidated financial statements in this release.

Marvin R. Ellison, chairman and chief executive officer said, “We are encouraged by our results for the fourth quarter and for fiscal 2017. Through the hard work and dedication of the entire JCPenney team, we delivered our second consecutive year of positive adjusted earnings. For 2017, we improved adjusted earnings per share by 175 %, reduced our outstanding debt levels by over $600 million and generated over $200 million of free cash flow. During the fourth quarter, we delivered our strongest positive sales comps and achieved our largest gross margin improvement for the year. Our fourth quarter gross margin improvement, combined with our continued commitment to expense discipline, helped us generate adjusted earnings per share of $0.57 for the quarter.”

Ellison continued, “In 2018, we will intensify our market share efforts in Appliances, Mattresses and Furniture, while continuing to take steps to modernize our apparel assortment and omni-channel. Our strategy and plan is clear and consistent, and we remain focused on two critical factors – to operate the business for growth and deliver profitable earnings. I would like to thank our nearly 100,000 associates around our company for their hard work and more importantly, for their commitment to JCPenney.”

Fourth Quarter 2017 Results
Total net sales for the 14 weeks ended Feb. 3, 2018 increased 1.8 % to $4.03 billion compared to $3.96 billion for the 13 weeks ended Jan. 28, 2017. Comparable sales increased 2.6 % in the fourth quarter and were on the same 13 week basis as the fourth quarter last year.

Jewelry, Home, Sephora, Footwear and Handbags and Salon were the Company’s top performing divisions during the quarter. Geographically, the Southeast and Gulf Coast were the best performing regions of the country.

Cost of goods sold, which excludes depreciation and amortization, was $2.68 billion, or 66.4 % of sales, compared to $2.65 billion, or 66.9 % of sales in the same period last year. The improvement was primarily driven by decreased promotional activity during the quarter resulting from an improved inventory position. This improvement was partially offset by the continued growth in the Company’s online and major appliance businesses and higher shrink rates.

SG&A expenses were $943 million compared to $925 million for the same period last year. As a percentage of sales, SG&A expenses were 23.4 % and flat compared to last year. Reductions primarily in store controllable costs and marketing spend were partially offset by lower credit income and higher incentive compensation.

Net income was $254 million, or $0.81 per share, compared to net income of $192 million, or $0.61 per share in the same period last year. The improvement was primarily due to a $75 million tax reform benefit recorded in the fourth quarter this year.

Adjusted net income was $179 million, or $0.57 per share, for the fourth quarter this year. Adjusted net income for the fourth quarter last year was $202 million, or $0.64 per share, which included a gain of $62 million, or $0.20 per share, associated with the sale of the Company’s home office.

Full Year 2017 Results
Total net sales decreased (0.3) % to $12.51 billion compared to $12.55 billion last year. Comparable sales increased 0.1 % for full year 2017. The slight decline in total net sales was primarily due to store closures in 2017, most of which closed in the first half of the year, and was partially offset by incremental sales for the 53rd week.

For the year, cost of goods sold, which excludes depreciation and amortization, was $8.17 billion, or 65.4 % of sales, compared to $8.07 billion, or 64.3 % of sales last year. This increase was primarily driven by the liquidation of both closed store and slow-moving inventory, the continued growth in the Company’s online and major appliance businesses and higher shrink rates.

SG&A expenses declined 2 % or $70 million to $3.47 billion, or 27.7 % of sales, a decrease of 50 basis points as a percentage of sales compared to last year. These savings were primarily driven by reductions in store controllable costs and marketing efficiencies, which were partially offset by lower credit income and higher incentive compensation.

Net loss was ($116) million, or ($0.37) per share, compared to net income of $1 million, or $0.00 per share last year. This reduction was driven primarily by restructuring charges associated with the fiscal 2017 store closures and voluntary early retirement program.

Adjusted net income increased $44 million to $68 million, or $0.22 per share, compared to adjusted net income of $24 million, or $0.08 per share, last year.

Adjusted EBITDA was $972 million compared to $1.01 billion last year.

Inventory at year-end was $2.76 billion, a decrease of 3.2 % compared to last year-end. Capital expenditures for the year, net of landlord allowances, were $375 million. Free cash flow was a positive $213 million for full year 2017, an increase of $210 million versus last year.

Cash and cash equivalents at the end of year were $458 million. During fiscal 2017, the Company reduced its outstanding debt position by over $600 million. The Company ended the fiscal year with liquidity in excess of $2.3 billion.

Outlook
The Company’s 2018 full year guidance is as follows:

Comparable store sales: expected to be 0.0 % to 2.0 %; and
Adjusted earnings per share1: expected to be $0.05 to $0.25.

1 A reconciliation of non-GAAP forward-looking projections to GAAP financial measures is not available as the nature or amount of potential adjustments, which may be significant, cannot be determined at this time.

Fourth Quarter and Full Year Earnings Conference Call Details

At 8:30 a.m. ET today, the Company will host a live conference call conducted by Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Marvin R. Ellison and Chief Financial Officer Jeffrey Davis. Management will discuss the Company’s performance during the quarter and take questions from participants. To access the conference call, please dial (844) 243-9275, or (225) 283-0394 for international callers, and reference 6887218 conference ID or visit the Company’s investor relations website at http://ir.jcpenney.com. Supplemental slides will be available on the Company’s investor relations website approximately 10 minutes before the start of the conference call.

Telephone playback will be available for seven days beginning approximately two hours after the conclusion of the conference call by dialing (855) 859-2056, or (404) 537-3406 for international callers, and referencing 6887218 conference ID.

Investors and others should note that we currently announce material information using SEC filings, press releases, public conference calls and webcasts. In the future, we will continue to use these channels to distribute material information about the Company and may also utilize our website and/or various social media to communicate important information about the Company, key personnel, new brands and services, trends, new marketing campaigns, corporate initiatives and other matters. Information that we post on our website or on social media channels could be deemed material; therefore, we encourage investors, the media, our customers, business partners and others interested in our Company to review the information we post on our website as well as the following social media channels:

Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/jcp) and Twitter (https://twitter.com/jcpnews).

Any updates to the list of social media channels we may use to communicate material information will be posted on the Investor Relations page of the Company’s website at www.jcpenney.com.

About JCPenney:
J. C. Penney Company, Inc. (NYSE:JCP), one of the nation’s largest apparel and home furnishings retailers, combines an expansive footprint of approximately 875 stores across the United States and Puerto Rico with a powerful e-commerce site, jcp.com, to connect with shoppers how, when and where they prefer to shop. At every customer touchpoint, she will get her Penney’s worth of a broad assortment of products from an extensive portfolio of private, exclusive and national brands. Powering this shopping experience is the customer service and warrior spirit of approximately 100,000 associates across the globe, all driving toward the Company’s three strategic priorities of strengthening private brands, becoming a world-class omnichannel retailer and increasing revenue per customer. For additional information, please visit jcp.com.

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

Media Relations:
(972) 431-3400
jcpnews@jcp.com
Follow us @jcpnews

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

Source: J. C. Penney Company, Inc.

Posted on March 6, 2018 by Retail News Editor

Taubman Centers declares a regular quarterly dividend of $0.655 per share of common stock

BLOOMFIELD HILLS, Mich., 2018-Mar-06 — /EPR Retail News/ — The Board of Directors of Taubman Centers, Inc. (NYSE: TCO) today (03/02/2018) declared a regular quarterly dividend of $0.655 per share of common stock, an increase of 4.8 percent. The common dividend is payable March 30, 2018 to shareholders of record on March 15, 2018. Since the company went public in 1992 it has never reduced its regular common dividend and has increased its dividend 21 times.

The Board of Directors also declared quarterly dividends of $0.40625 on its 6.5% Series J Cumulative Preferred Shares (NYSE: TCO PR J) and $0.390625 on its 6.25% Series K Cumulative Preferred Shares (NYSE: TCO PR K). The preferred dividends will be payable March 30, 2018 to shareholders of record on March 15, 2018.

About Taubman

Taubman Centers is an S&P MidCap 400 Real Estate Investment Trust engaged in the ownership, management and/or leasing of 27 regional, super-regional and outlet shopping centers in the U.S. and Asia. Taubman’s U.S.-owned properties are the most productive in the publicly held U.S. regional mall industry. Founded in 1950, Taubman is headquartered in Bloomfield Hills, Mich. Taubman Asia, founded in 2005, is headquartered in Hong Kong. www.taubman.com.

For ease of use, references in this press release to “Taubman Centers,” “company,” “Taubman” or an operating platform mean Taubman Centers, Inc. and/or one or more of a number of separate, affiliated entities. Business is actually conducted by an affiliated entity rather than Taubman Centers, Inc. itself or the named operating platform.

This press release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These statements reflect management’s current views with respect to future events and financial performance. Forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as “will”, “may”, “could”, “expect”, “anticipate”, “believes”, “intends”, “should”, “plans”, “estimates”, “approximate”, “guidance” and similar expressions in this press release that predict or indicate future events and trends and that do not report historical matters. The forward-looking statements included in this release are made as of the date hereof. Except as required by law, the company assumes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements, even if new information becomes available in the future. Actual results may differ materially from those expected because of various risks, uncertainties and other factors. Such factors include, but are not limited to: changes in market rental rates; unscheduled closings or bankruptcies of tenants; relationships with anchor tenants; trends in the retail industry; challenges with department stores; changes in consumer shopping behavior; the liquidity of real estate investments; the company’s ability to comply with debt covenants; the availability and terms of financings; changes in market rates of interest and foreign exchange rates for foreign currencies; changes in value of investments in foreign entities; the ability to hedge interest rate and currency risk; risks related to acquiring, developing, expanding, leasing and managing properties; competitors gaining economies of scale through M&A and consolidation activity; changes in value of investments in foreign entities; risks related to joint venture properties; insurance costs and coverage; security breaches that could impact the company’s information technology, infrastructure or personal data; costs associated with response to technology breaches; the loss of key management personnel; shareholder activism costs and related diversion of management time; terrorist activities; maintaining the company’s status as a real estate investment trust; changes in the laws of states, localities, and foreign jurisdictions that may increase taxes on the company’s operations; and changes in global, national, regional and/or local economic and geopolitical climates. You should review the company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including “Risk Factors” in its most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent quarterly reports, for a discussion of such risks and uncertainties.

Contact:
Ryan Hurren
Taubman, Director, Investor Relations,
248-258-7232
rhurren@taubman.com

Maria Mainville
Taubman, Director, Strategic Communications
248-258-7469
mmainville@taubman.com

Source: Taubman Centers, Inc.

Posted on March 4, 2018 by Retail News Editor

CVS Health Foundation announces $1 million new grants to 49 Free and Charitable Clinics across the country

WOONSOCKET, R.I., 2018-Mar-05 — /EPR Retail News/ — As part of its ongoing effort to making quality health care convenient and affordable for more Americans, the CVS Health Foundation, a private charitable organization created by CVS Health (NYSE: CVS), today (March 1, 2018) extended its commitment to the National Association of Free & Charitable Clinics (NAFC) with $1 million in new grants to 49 Free and Charitable Clinics across the country. The new grants will focus on improving health outcomes for patients managing chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension.

“The rising cost of health care can make finding quality and affordable care harder to come by for many Americans,” said Eileen Howard Boone, president of the CVS Health Foundation. “Through our support of the National Association of Free & Charitable Clinics, we’re able to increase access to quality care, improve chronic disease management and care coordination to help improve health outcomes for the most vulnerable patients and reduce health care costs in the communities we serve.”

The new funds, which bring the Foundation’s total contribution to NAFC to more than $4.5 million since 2015, will support increased access to quality care, as well as chronic disease management and prevention services. Grants, ranging from $10,000to $20,000, will be distributed to 49 free and charitable clinics in Arizona, California, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Wisconsin and West Virginia.

“The NAFC and our network of charitable health care providers are beyond grateful for the continued support and unwavering commitment we receive from the CVS Health Foundation,” said Nicole Lamoureux, NAFC CEO. “Diabetes and hypertension are the top two diagnoses found among our patient population. This year’s funding will allow our Free and Charitable Clinics to focus on improving their patients’ health outcomes for these chronic conditions, and in turn improving the health of communities across the country.”

For more information on how the Free and Charitable Clinics will be utilizing their grants to improve community health, please visit www.cvshealth.com/NAFC.

About the CVS Health Foundation

The CVS Health Foundation is a private charitable organization created by CVS Health that works to build healthier communities, enabling people of all ages to lead healthy, productive lives. The Foundation provides strategic investments to nonprofit partners throughout the U.S. who help increase community-based access to health care for underserved populations, create innovative approaches to chronic disease management and provide tobacco cessation and youth prevention programming. We also invest in scholarship programs that open the pathways to careers in pharmacy to support the academic aspirations of the best and brightest talent in the industry. Our philanthropy also extends to supporting our colleagues’ spirit of volunteerism through Volunteer Challenge grants to nonprofits where they donate their time and fundraising efforts. To learn more about the CVS Health Foundation and its giving, visit www.cvshealth.com/social-responsibility.

About the National Association of Free & Charitable Clinics

The National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics (NAFC) is the only nonprofit 501c(3) organization whose mission is solely focused on the issues and needs of the medically underserved throughout the nation and the more than 1,200 Free and Charitable Clinics that serve them. Founded in 2001 and headquartered near Washington, D.C., the NAFC is working to ensure that the medically underserved have access to affordable quality health care and strives to be a national voice promoting quality health care for all. The NAFC has earned the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar and a Four Star Ranking with Charity Navigator.

For more information about the NAFC, please visit www.nafcclinics.org. Follow the NAFC on Twitter at https://twitter.com/NAFClinics and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/NAFCClinics.

Media Contact:
Mary Gattuso,
mary.gattuso@cvshealth.com
401-770-9811

SOURCE: CVS Health Foundation

Posted on March 4, 2018 by Retail News Editor

Greggs opens an ethical investment account with Newcastle-based organisation Shared Interest to help farmers earn a better living

Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom, 2018-Mar-05 — /EPR Retail News/ — THIS FAIRTADE FORTNIGHT, the UK’s leading bakery food-on-the-go retailer Greggs is helping farmers in the developing world to earn a better living. With more than 1,850 shops across the UK, Greggs has opened an ethical investment account with Newcastle-based organisation Shared Interest.

Shared Interest has over 11,500 UK members with a collective investment of £40m in share capital. This money is pooled together to offer loans and credit facilities to fair trade producers who struggle to find finance elsewhere.

Shared Interest Managing Director Patricia Alexander said: “We are delighted to welcome Greggs as the first high-street company to invest in Shared Interest. Last year, our members helped make a positive impact on the lives of 375,000 individuals, helping us to break the cycle of poverty in the developing world.

“Our work is not just about providing finance on fair terms. The Fairtrade certified farmers we work with say that we have helped changed the lives of families involved. It is fitting that a company that has its roots in our local community is now helping us to transform communities across the globe.”

From its head office in Newcastle upon Tyne, Shared Interest made payments totalling £62.2m to 397 organisations in 60 countries. The social lender also has offices in Costa Rica Ghana, Kenya and Peru.

Patricia continued: “The demand for our finance has never been higher and we are proud to join forces with another local organisation to help more farmers growing the products we enjoy every day.”

Malcolm Copland, Commercial Director at Greggs said: “As a responsible business, we believe in doing the right thing and are incredibly proud to be a long-standing partner of Fairtrade and more recently, Shared Interest. A number of our products, including coffee, are certified Fairtrade and it has been incredible to see the positive impact and difference we can make to producer communities. We look forward to building on this success further and doing our bit to help change the lives of the thousands of people involved.”

MEDIA CONTACT:
Havas PR: 0161 236 2277
prgreggs@havas.com

Source: Greggs

Posted on March 2, 2018 by Retail News Editor

Harris Teeter launches donation card campaign in support of Muscular Dystrophy Association

: Harris Teeter launches donation card campaign in support of Muscular Dystrophy Association

Matthews, N.C., 2018-Mar-02 — /EPR Retail News/ — Today (March 1, 2018), Harris Teeter launched a donation card campaign in support of Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA). Cashiers in Harris Teeter stores will ask shoppers and associates to purchase a $1, $3, and $5 “Live Unlimited” donation card. The sales of the donation cards will directly benefit MDA in raising funds to continue its mission of finding treatments and cures for neuromuscular diseases, including ALS and other related life-threatening diseases.

The company has donated over $1.5 million to MDA thanks to generous contributions from Harris Teeter customers and associates over the last 10 years.

“Each donation card sold is a symbol of strength, independence and life for kids and adults with life-threatening diseases who count on MDA to find answers and provide support,” said Amy Meyers, Executive Director of MDA: Charlotte. “Thanks to the generosity of Harris Teeter associates and shoppers, we can help MDA invest in lifesaving research and support programs for these individuals so they can live the life they’ve always imagined and experience the world without any limits.”

To learn more about Harris Teeter’s commitment to help MDA in the fight against neuromuscular disease, please click here.

About MDA
MDA is leading the fight to free individuals, and the families who love them, from the harm of muscular dystrophy, ALS and related muscle-debilitating diseases that take away physical strength, independence and life. MDA uses their collective strength to help children and adults live longer and grow stronger by finding research breakthroughs across diseases; caring for individuals from day one; and empowering families with services and support in hometowns across America.

Source: Harris Teeter

###

Posted on March 1, 2018 by Retail News Editor

Abercrombie & Fitch Co. declares quarterly cash dividend of $0.20 per share

NEW ALBANY, Ohio, 2018-Mar-01 — /EPR Retail News/ — Abercrombie & Fitch Co. (NYSE:ANF) today (Feb. 26, 2018) reported that on February 23, 2018, the Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.20 per share on the Class A Common Stock of Abercrombie & Fitch Co., payable on March 19, 2018 to stockholders of record at the close of business on March 9, 2018.

About Abercrombie & Fitch Co.
Abercrombie & Fitch Co. (NYSE:ANF) is a leading, global specialty retailer of apparel and accessories for Men, Women and Kids through three renowned brands. For 125 years, the iconic Abercrombie & Fitch brand has outfitted innovators, explorers and entrepreneurs. Today, the brand reflects the updated attitude of the 21 to 24-year old customer, while remaining true to its heritage of creating expertly crafted products with an effortless, American style. The Hollister brand epitomizes the liberating and carefree spirit of the endless Californiasummer for the teen market. abercrombie kids creates smart, playful apparel for children ages 5-14, celebrating the wide-eyed wonder of childhood.

The brands share a commitment to offering products of enduring quality and exceptional comfort that allow consumers around the world to express their own individuality and style. The Company operates approximately 900 stores under these brands across North America, Europe, Asia and the Middle East, as well as the e-commerce sites www.abercrombie.com and www.hollisterco.com.

Media Contact:
Ian Bailey
Public Relations
Abercrombie & Fitch
(614) 283-6192
Public_Relations@anfcorp.com

Investor Contact:
Brian Logan
Abercrombie & Fitch
(614) 283-6877
Investor_Relations@anfcorp.com

Source: Abercrombie & Fitch Company/globenewswire

Posted on February 28, 2018 by EPR Retail News Editors

Bitt.com signs MoU with the Caribbean island Montserrat to launch a digital payments platform

Barbados-based Bitt a portfolio company of Overstock.com blockchain subsidiary Medici VenturesSALT LAKE CITY, 2018-Feb-28 — /EPR Retail News/ — Overstock.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:OSTK) portfolio investment company Bitt.com has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Caribbean island Montserrat to launch a digital payments platform.

Bitt has been working to position island nations in that region as global leaders in the adoption of digital national currencies, allowing everyone with a smartphone, tablet, or computer to easily make digital domestic transactions.

This work has included actively building a financial ecosystem in the Caribbean that remedies the issues which people in the region experience daily, including high frictional fees from banks and other money services operations that make sending money in and out of the region cumbersome and costly.

“The people of Montserrat will benefit from increased financial inclusion, and a significant reduction in their need for cash to make payments for goods and services, or as a means of saving,” said Donaldson Romeo, Premier of Montserrat.

The move by Montserrat follows last year’s declaration by the International Monetary Fund’s Christine Lagarde that digital currencies “may one day be easier and safer than obtaining paper bills, especially in remote regions,” and that “virtual currencies could actually become more stable” than paper-based currency.

“For decades economists have spoken of ‘the unbanked’ and the difficulties they face because they are disconnected from the global financial system,” said Patrick M. Byrne, CEO of Overstock.com. “In recent weeks Bitt.com has launched a mobile app-based solution that allows people in Barbados to walk into a store and buy goods or services with digitized Barbados currency. Now, with this incredibly forward-thinking step by the premier and government of Montserrat, Bitt can begin bringing this technology to serve the poor, disconnected, and unbanked of that beautiful nation, and begin connecting them to a leading-edge blockchain-based monetary system. Then, as Montserrat goes, so goes the world!”

“We’re honored to assist Montserrat in meeting its objective of boosting financial inclusion while reducing reliance on cash while building resilient and sustainable socio-economic progress together,” said Rawdon Adams, CEO of Bitt.

About Overstock.com
Overstock.com, Inc. Common Shares (NASDAQ:OSTK) / Series A Preferred (Medici Ventures’ tZERO platform: OSTKP) / Series B Preferred (OTCQX:OSTBP) is an online retailer based in Salt Lake City, Utah that sells a broad range of products at low prices, including furniture, décor, rugs, bedding, and home improvement. In addition to home goods, Overstock.com offers a variety of products including jewelry, electronics, apparel, and more, as well as a marketplace providing customers access to hundreds of thousands of products from third-party sellers. Additional stores include Pet Adoptions and Worldstock.com dedicated to selling artisan-crafted products from around the world. Forbes ranked Overstock in its list of the Top 100 Most Trustworthy Companies in 2014. Overstock regularly posts information about the company and other related matters under Investor Relations on its website, http://www.overstock.com.

About Medici Ventures:
Launched in 2014, Medici Ventures is a wholly owned subsidiary of Overstock.com, Inc., created to leverage blockchain technology to solve real-world problems with transparent, efficient and secure solutions. Medici Ventures has a growing portfolio of groundbreaking blockchain-focused investments, including tZERO, Peernova, Bitt, SettleMint, Factom, and IdentityMind, Spera and Symbiont. The company’s majority-owned financial technology company, t0.com, executed the world’s first blockchain-based stock offering in December 2016.

O, Overstock.com, O.com, Club O, Main Street Revolution, and Worldstock are registered trademarks of Overstock.com, Inc. O.biz and Space Shift are also trademarks of Overstock.com, Inc. Other service marks, trademarks and trade names which may be referred to herein are the property of their respective owners.

This press release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Such forward-looking statements include all statements other than statements of historical fact. Additional information regarding factors that could materially affect results and the accuracy of the forward-looking statements contained herein may be found in the Company’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2017, which was filed with the SEC on November 8, 2017, and any subsequent filings with the SEC.

Media Contact:
pr@overstock.com

Investor Contact:
ir@overstock.com

SOURCE: Overstock.com/ GLOBE NEWSWIRE

Posted on February 28, 2018 by EPR Retail News Editors

Visa Inc. to present at the Keefe, Bruyette & Woods Cards, Payments & Financial Technology Symposium in New York

SAN FRANCISCO, 2018-Feb-28 — /EPR Retail News/ — Visa Inc. (NYSE: V) today announced its participation in the following investor conference.

On Thursday, March 1, Al Kelly, Chief Executive Officer, will present at the Keefe, Bruyette & Woods Cards, Payments & Financial Technology Symposium in New York. The discussion will begin at 3:20 p.m. Eastern Time and last for approximately 40 minutes.

Listen-only audio webcast and replay will be accessible for 30 days on the Investor Relations website at http://investor.visa.com.

About Visa Inc.

Visa Inc. (NYSE: V) is the world’s leader in digital payments. Our mission is to connect the world through the most innovative, reliable and secure payment network – enabling individuals, businesses and economies to thrive. Our advanced global processing network, VisaNet, provides secure and reliable payments around the world, and is capable of handling more than 65,000 transaction messages a second. The company’s relentless focus on innovation is a catalyst for the rapid growth of connected commerce on any device, and a driving force behind the dream of a cashless future for everyone, everywhere. As the world moves from analog to digital, Visa is applying our brand, products, people, network and scale to reshape the future of commerce. For more information, visit usa.visa.com/about-visa.html, visacorporate.tumblr.com and @VisaNews.

Source: Visa Inc.

Visa Inc.
Investor Relations
Patrick Laney, +1 650-432-7644
ir@visa.com
or
Media Relations
Nathaniel Sillin, +1 415-805-4892
globalmedia@visa.com

Posted on February 28, 2018 by EPR Retail News Editors

Visa introduces a solution designed to unify management and secure customer payment data

Token Management Service: Smarter Tokens for a Connected Digital World (Photo: Business Wire)

Provides a 360-Degree View of Customer Payments Across Channels and Payment Types

SAN FRANCISCO, 2018-Feb-28 — /EPR Retail News/ — Visa (NYSE: V) today introduced Token Management Service, a solution designed to unify management and secure customer payment data. Token Management Service enables an integrated view of payment preferences and behaviors across a merchant’s commerce platforms, processing environments, geographies, payment types and card brands.

Seventy percent of the world, or more than 5 billion people, will be connected via mobile device by 2020¹, creating the need for merchants to provide consumers with seamless digital payments that work securely, anywhere and on any device. Laying a foundation for this transition, Visa has developed Token Management Service, part of Visa’s CyberSource payment management platform.

Different token services deployed across multiple digital commerce environments create channel silos, preventing merchants from fully understanding payment behavior across their various customer touchpoints. Token Management Service helps enable merchants to unify payment token implementation in order to provide simple, innovative and seamless purchasing experiences. For example:

Customers can buy goods online, then pick them up in store, or make a purchase online and return items in-store.
Merchants can augment their customer engagement strategy with tailored loyalty programs and promotions to suit customer preferences and behavior, ultimately providing impactful customer experiences

“Our clients are seeking to create new integrated commerce experiences that unify their digital and physical operations to gain a comprehensive 360-degree view of their customer interactions,” said Andre Machicao, senior vice president, digital merchant products, Visa. “Today’s launch of Token Management Service brings merchants a vital capability to better service their customers by enabling them to embrace and create new, frictionless and secure payment experiences and maintain their competitive edge.”

Merchants can deploy Token Management Service with limited changes to their current IT infrastructure. When using the service, payment information is stored in secure Visa data centers. Merchants can benefit directly by reducing costs associated with compliance and minimizing security threats associated with keeping sensitive data on their own networks.

“Merchants operate in an omnichannel world where customers have the power of choice in shopping, namely – how, where, and when to buy. Consumers also value convenience and immediacy in their interaction with merchants and expect a streamlined payment experience regardless of their buying method or platform,” said Raymond Pucci, associate director, Mercator Advisory Group. “Providing a unified token management service as part of a layered approach to payment risk mitigation ensures a fast and secure checkout experience that strengthens the customer relationship.”

The latest addition to Visa’s innovative digital solutions for merchants, Token Management Service is a complementary solution to Visa Token Service, a payment network tokenization service developed by Visa in 2014. Visa Token Service has paved the way for innovative digital payments types, ranging from technologies such as Visa Checkout, to mobile wallets and payment-enabled IoT devices, including wearables, connected cars and appliances and mobile commerce in retail environments. Token Management Service will enable merchants to realize the value of payment-network tokens by simplifying integration into Visa Token Service and other payment network tokenization services.

For more information about Token Management Service, please visit: http://www.cybersource.com/tokenization

About Visa Inc.Visa Inc. (NYSE: V) is the world’s leader in digital payments. Our mission is to connect the world through the most innovative, reliable and secure payment network – enabling individuals, businesses and economies to thrive. Our advanced global processing network, VisaNet, provides secure and reliable payments around the world, and is capable of handling more than 65,000 transaction messages a second. The company’s relentless focus on innovation is a catalyst for the rapid growth of connected commerce on any device, and a driving force behind the dream of a cashless future for everyone, everywhere. As the world moves from analog to digital, Visa is applying our brand, products, people, network and scale to reshape the future of commerce. For more information, visit usa.visa.com/aboutvisa, visacorporate.tumblr.com and @VisaNews.

¹ Source: Cisco Visual Networking Index Global Mobile Data Traffic Forecast Update, 2015-2020

Source: Visa Inc.

Visa Inc.
Aida Hadzibegovic, 415-805-4242
ahadzibe@visa.com

Posted on February 28, 2018 by EPR Retail News Editors

Visa announces new research and education programs to strengthen the talent pipeline in the credit union industry

New field research focused on recruiting practices and expanded education opportunities for emerging credit union leaders strengthens industry talent pipeline

SAN FRANCISCO, 2018-Feb-28 — /EPR Retail News/ — Visa (NYSE: V) today announced new research and education programs as part of the company’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the talent pipeline in the credit union industry. Visa, together with the Filene Research Institute, will conduct two unique studies exploring talent gaps in the credit union industry throughout 2018. Visa and Filene will also introduce expanded education opportunities and resources designed to inspire young leaders to pursue careers in credit unions and foster their growth.

“Credit unions are vital to the financial health of our communities and Visa is committed to ensuring the long-term success of these organizations,” said Doug Leighton, head of community accounts, Visa. “Our goal is to introduce opportunities for emerging talent to grow in their career, while bringing fresh ideas and strategies to credit union leadership in order to more effectively serve their members.”

Advancing recruitment research through the War for Talent Center of Excellence

Through Filene Research Institute’s War for Talent Center of Excellence Visa and Filene will convene leading academics and credit union experts to study the industry’s talent gap. Filene research fellow, Dr. Sekou Bermiss, assistant professor of management, University of Texas, Austin, will conduct two unique studies in 2018:

Factors of Talent Attraction at Two Credit Unions: A Field Study: Despite a large percentage of individuals in the labor force expressing interest in working for a company that makes a social impact, recruiting within credit unions remains a key challenge. This natural field experiment within a set of credit unions will test the effectiveness of current recruiting practices.
Credit Union Board Composition: Desires and Practices: This research aims to help credit union leadership identify key traits they seek in candidates and define values and soft skills that impact these traits in order to build a diverse board equipped to attract talent with well-rounded backgrounds, ideas and expertise.

“There remains a gap between credit union leadership and the members they serve. We have an opportunity to leverage people analytics and research to develop the right strategies for attracting, developing and promoting top performers within credit unions, from the front line to the boardroom,” said Dr. Sekou Bermiss, assistant professor of management, University of Texas, Austin and Filene research fellow. “I look forward to continuing research with the War for Talent Center of Excellence and Visa to share insights that help credit union leaders build and grow a qualified talent pipeline.”

These two new studies build on the Center’s first publication authored by Dr. Bermiss in 2017, “Laws of Attraction: Credit Union Recruitment in a Competitive Labor Market.” Credit union and human resources leaders can put these insights into practice with the “Talent Attraction Checklist,” an actionable resource outlining important factors like employee fit, job characteristics and recruiter behavior to consider throughout the recruitment process.

Furthering education and talent development through The Cooperative Trust

Visa and The Cooperative Trust, an initiative focused on educating and cultivating young leaders in the credit union industry, will offer expanded online and offline resources in 2018, including a new mentorship program. These efforts include the “Crashers” program, offering the brightest young leaders the opportunity to participate in conversations and events focused on shaping the future of credit unions. Visa and Filene Researchwith support from the Credit Union National Association will host 78 Crashers, a record number, at the upcoming Governmental Affairs Conference, the industry’s largest advocacy conference.

“As we continue to grow The Cooperative Trust and Crash opportunities, we’re always challenging ourselves to elevate and advance the program to provide the most impact for young professionals and the credit union system,” said Lauren Culp, manager, The Cooperative Trust. “Visa has played a valuable role in helping ensure young people have a voice and are included in the conversation as we look to the future of our industry.”

Program highlights to date include:

The Cooperative Trust received the 2017 Herb Wegner Award for Outstanding Program, the highest national honors for the credit union movement that celebrates programs that put belief into action.
Five Crashers selected in the top 15 of the Next Top Credit Union Executive Competition.
Over 130 Crashers participating in credit union events across the U.S., including hands on experience at Visa’s Innovation Center in San Francisco.
Expanded online and offline resources including a new mentorship program, a refreshed website and online community, and additional Crash events.

About Visa Inc.

Visa Inc. (NYSE: V) is the world’s leader in digital payments. Our mission is to connect the world through the most innovative, reliable and secure payment network – enabling individuals, businesses and economies to thrive. Our advanced global processing network, VisaNet, provides secure and reliable payments around the world, and is capable of handling more than 65,000 transaction messages a second. The company’s relentless focus on innovation is a catalyst for the rapid growth of connected commerce on any device, and a driving force behind the dream of a cashless future for everyone, everywhere. As the world moves from analog to digital, Visa is applying our brand, products, people, network and scale to reshape the future of commerce. For more information, visit usa.visa.com/aboutvisa, visacorporate.tumblr.com and @VisaNews.

Source: Visa Inc.

Visa Inc.
Elizabeth Pietrzak, 415-203-7235
epietrza@visa.com

Posted on February 23, 2018 by Retail News Editor

CarMax to provide one-time bonus to associates as a result of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017

Richmond, Va., 2018-Feb-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — CarMax, Inc. (NYSE:KMX), the nation’s largest retailer of used cars, announced plans to provide one-time bonuses to most hourly and commissioned full-time and part-time associates as a result of the recently passed Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017. Bonus amounts will vary from $200 up to $1,500 based on length of service with the company.

“Our success as a company is due to the hard work and dedication of our talented Associates,” said Bill Nash, CarMax President and CEO. “We are always looking for ways we can support them, and I’m pleased to have this opportunity to thank associates for all that they do every day for our customers and for each other.” About 80 percent of associates will receive the bonus, which will be distributed in March 2018.*

CarMax regularly evaluates research salary data to ensure we are offering competitive compensation and benefits to our associates. The company also is carefully considering opportunities to use these new tax savings in ways that are in the best interests of our business, our associates, our customers and our shareholders.

About CarMax
CarMax is the nation’s largest retailer of used cars and operates more than 185 stores in 41 states nationwide. CarMax revolutionized the auto industry by delivering the honest, transparent and high-integrity car buying experience customers want and deserve. For nearly 25 years, CarMax has made car buying more ethical, fair and stress-free by offering a no-haggle, no-hassle experience and an incredible selection of vehicles. CarMax makes selling your car easy too, by offering no-obligation appraisals good for seven days. At CarMax, we’ll buy your car even if you don’t buy ours®. CarMax has nearly 25,000 associates nationwide and for 14 consecutive years has been named as one of the FORTUNE 100 Best Companies to Work For®. During the 12 months ending February 28, 2017, the company retailed 671,294 used cars and sold 391,686 wholesale vehicles at its in-store auctions. For more information, access the CarMax website at www.carmax.com.

Contact:

pr@carmax.com
(855) 887-2915

Source: CarMax, Inc.

Posted on February 23, 2018 by Retail News Editor

Intershop grew revenues by 5% and generated positive EBIT in the fiscal year 2017

Total revenues of EUR 35.8 million (previous year: EUR 34.2 million)
EBITDA of EUR 2.8 million (previous year: EUR 0.1 million)
EBIT of EUR 0.4 million (previous year: EUR -2.4 million)
“Cloud First” – focus on expanding the cloud business

Jena, 2018-Feb-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — Intershop Communications AG (ISIN: DE000A0EPUH1), a leading independent provider of innovative solutions for omnichannel commerce, grew its revenues by 5% and generated positive EBIT (earnings before interest and taxes) amounted to EUR 0.4 million in the fiscal year 2017. This is the first time in four years that Intershop was able to increase its revenues. In total, consolidated revenues climbed to EUR 35.8 million (previous year: EUR 34.2 million). This growth is mainly attributable to the positive trend in licensing revenues and to a sharp rise in full-service revenues.

Product revenues picked up by 3% to EUR 14.1 million in the reporting period. The related licensing revenues climbed 8% to EUR 6.1 million. New customers accounted for close to one third of the revenues. In the second half of the year, the company additionally recorded a large number of incoming orders for cloud licenses, which will lead to continuous income in the following quarters. Maintenance revenues stayed at the prior year level of EUR 8.0 million.

Over the course of the year, Intershop’s service revenues increased continuously from quarter to quarter and finally reached EUR 21.7 million, up 6% on the previous year. Although consulting and training revenues, which are included in service revenues, declined by a moderate 3% to EUR 15.4 million, they again made the biggest contribution (43%) to Intershop’s total revenues. At the same time, full-service revenues rose significantly by 37% to EUR 6.3 million. This increase was attributable to the good new business trend in this segment. The share of service revenues in total revenues rose moderately to 61% (previous year: 60%).

Intershop improved its earnings notably in the fiscal year 2017. The Group’s gross margin climbed three percentage points to 49% (previous year: 46%). Earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) amounted to EUR 0.4 million at the end of the fiscal year (previous year: EUR -2.4 million), while the EBIT margin stood at 1% (previous year: -7%). EBIT was slightly positive in each quarter throughout the year 2017. Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) rose sharply from EUR 0.1 million in the previous year to EUR 2.8 million. The EBITDA margin stood at 8% (previous year: 0%). At EUR -0.3 million, the financial result was on a par with the previous year; income taxes increased to EUR 0.7 million (previous year: EUR 0.3 million). This resulted in a consolidated net loss after taxes of EUR -0.7 million (previous year: EUR -3.0 million) and earnings per share of EUR -0.02 (previous year: EUR -0.09).

Total assets of the Intershop Group declined by 8% to EUR 25.0 million as of the balance sheet date on 31 December 2017. As a result of the scheduled repayment of EUR 1.0 million in loans, liabilities to banks were reduced to EUR 2.8 million. Cash and cash equivalents dropped to EUR 8.9 million (previous year: EUR 10.9 million). Cash flow from operations stood at EUR 1.7 million, compared to EUR -0.9 million in the previous year. The equity ratio climbed from 59% to 61% as at 31 December 2017, again testifying to Intershop’s sound net assets and financial position. As of the balance sheet date, Intershop employed a total of 338 people worldwide.

Dr. Jochen Wiechen, CEO of Intershop Communications AG: “The year 2017 marked the first success of our “Lighthouse 2020” strategy. Our key task in 2018 will be to accelerate the expansion of the SaaS solutions business, as we expect this market to achieve the highest growth rates. Under the new guideline “Cloud First”, we will push ahead with the standardization of our cloud solution. The recently announced expansion of the Management Board will additionally support the company’s transformation. We are also planning to make further investments in sales and marketing. We want to continue to grow in the future, if possible faster than before.”

The Intershop Management Board is confident that the company’s growth will continue in the current fiscal year and expects Group revenues to grow moderately in 2018. Management also projects slightly positive EBIT as well as a moderate increase in gross profit and the gross margin.

The full consolidated financial statements will be published in mid-March 2018. All financials in this press release are provisional, pending completion of the statutory audit.

Financial Tables

About Intershop

Intershop Communications AG (founded in Germany 1992; Prime Standard: ISH2) is the leading independent provider of omni-channel commerce solutions. Intershop offers high-performance packaged software for internet sales, complemented by all necessary services. Intershop also acts as a business process outsourcing provider, covering all aspects of online retailing up to fulfillment. Around the globe more than 300 enterprise customers, including HP, BMW, Würth, and Deutsche Telekom run Intershop solutions. Intershop is headquartered in Jena, Germany, and has offices in the United States, Europe, Australia, and China. More information about Intershop can be found online at www.intershop.com.

This news release contains forward-looking statements regarding future events or the future financial and operational performance of Intershop. Actual events or performance may differ materially from those contained or implied in such forward-looking statements. Risks and uncertainties that could lead to such difference could include, among other things: Intershop’s limited operating history, the unpredictability of future revenues and expenses and potential fluctuations in revenues and operating results, significant dependence on large single customer deals, consumer trends, the level of competition, seasonality, risks related to electronic security, possible governmental regulation, and general economic conditions.

Contact:

Intershop Public Relations

HEIDE RAUSCH
Head of Corporate Communication
Phone: +49 3641 50-1000
Fax: +49 3641 50-1309
mailto:pr@intershop.de

Source: Intershop Communications AG

Posted on February 23, 2018 by Retail News Editor

Whole Planet Foundation launches its Annual Prosperity Campaign on March 1

AUSTIN, Texas, 2018-Feb-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — On Thursday, March 1, Whole Planet Foundation launches its Annual Prosperity Campaign to alleviate poverty around the globe for the world’s poorest people – mostly women – living in communities where Whole Foods Market® sources products. This year’s campaign goal is to raise $3 million to increase the foundation’s current reach of 72 countries and 16 U.S. cities.

“Shopper generosity during the Annual Prosperity Campaign is tremendous. Whole Foods Market customers are part of a global movement of empowering women to change their own lives through their own hard work,” said Joy Stoddard, Whole Planet Foundation development and outreach director. “A loan as small as $11 can shift a women’s self-perception and power her potential to see her own value, have the courage to become a businesswoman and generate income for herself and her family. This campaign enables us all to contribute.” Because Whole Foods Market covers the foundation’s operational costs, 100 percent of every donation benefits microcredit clients.

The average first loan size supported by Whole Planet Foundation is $183 and the loans do not require a formal contract or collateral. In some parts of the world where women are often marginalized with little say in decisions, these small loans make a mighty impact. Microcredits cannot guarantee that a woman will escape poverty herself, but they provide a chance for her to become a participant in her community’s economy, improve her family’s living conditions, and increase nutrition and education for her children.

For example, Maimuna is a microcredit client of Whole Planet Foundation’s microfinance partner Reliance in The Gambia in West Africa. Maimuna sells bread, dried fish and breakfast items in the village of Nyimina Dankunku where she lives with her family. With her loan of 5,000 Gambian Dalasis (about $117), Maimuna purchased ingredients for the food she prepares. On a good day, she can take home a profit of 300 Gambian Dalasis (about $6). Microentrepreneurs in the United States run businesses including food carts, flower stands, artisan goods, mobile nail salons, and jewelry, shoes and clothing sales.

“Since 2006 we have funded 2.6 million microloans providing 14.5 million opportunities for a better life. The microfinance organizations we partner with are experts in poverty alleviation and we are seeing reductions in global poverty,” said Philip Sansone, Whole Planet Foundation president and executive director. “We couldn’t do this work without our generous supplier partners who have donated a remarkable ten million dollars for these critical efforts.”

Amplifying this year’s Prosperity Campaign, suppliers to Whole Foods Market are donating $1.2 million to fund 36,000 opportunities for low-income entrepreneurs around the world to change their own lives. Suppliers donating $100,000 each include Allegro Coffee Company, Chobani, Frontier Co-op, Naked Juice, Papyrus-Recycled Greetings, and Wallaby. Suppliers donating $50,000 each include Alaffia, Bonafide Provisions, Boulder Brands, Hain Celestial, Hiball Energy, IZZE, ORGANIC INDIA, Sambazon, Seventh Generation, Traditional Medicinals and Weleda.

Learn more about the transformative power of microcredit at Whole Planet Foundation, watch the documentary Living On One Dollar to understand extreme poverty, and join the Prosperity Campaign in Whole Foods Market stores or online to power the potential of women entrepreneurs worldwide.

Contact:

SOmedia@wholefoods.com

Source: Whole Foods Market

Posted on February 23, 2018 by Retail News Editor

Sequential Brands Group to host Q4 2017 earnings conference call on Wednesday, February 28, 2018

NEW YORK, 2018-Feb-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — Sequential Brands Group, Inc. (“Sequential” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ:SQBG) will issue financial results for its fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2017 before the market opens on Wednesday, February 28, 2018.

Management will provide further commentary on the Company’s financial results on a conference call at 8:30am ET that day. To join the conference call, please dial (877) 407-0789 or visit the investor relations page on the Company’s website: www.sequentialbrandsgroup.com

About Sequential Brands Group, Inc.
Sequential Brands Group, Inc. (Nasdaq:SQBG) owns, promotes, markets, and licenses a portfolio of consumer brands in the fashion, active and home categories. Sequential seeks to ensure that its brands continue to thrive and grow by employing strong brand management, design and marketing teams. Sequential has licensed and intends to license its brands in a variety of consumer categories to retailers, wholesalers and distributors in the United States and around the world. For more information, please visit Sequential’s website at: www.sequentialbrandsgroup.com.

Investor Relations Contact:

Katherine Nash
knash@sbg-ny.com
(512) 757-2566

Source: Sequential Brands Group, Inc./globenewswire

Posted on February 22, 2018 by Retail News Editor

Lowe’s Companies, Inc. to host Q4 2017 earnings conference call on Wednesday, February 28, 2018

MOORESVILLE, N.C., 2018-Feb-22 — /EPR Retail News/ — In conjunction with the Lowe’s Companies, Inc. (NYSE: LOW) fourth quarter 2017 earnings press release, you are invited to listen to its conference call to be broadcast live over the internet on Wednesday, February 28, 2018 at 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time with: Robert A. Niblock, chairman, president and chief executive officer; Richard D. Maltsbarger, chief operating officer; and Marshall A. Croom, chief financial officer. Supplemental slides will be available fifteen minutes prior to the start of the conference call.

What: Fourth Quarter 2017 Earnings Conference Call Webcast

When: 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time on Wednesday, February 28, 2018

Where: Visit Lowe’s Investor Relations website at http://www.Lowes.com/investor

Click on Webcasts and then on Lowe’s Fourth Quarter 2017 Earnings Conference Call

How: Listen live online and view the supplemental slides by following the directions above

A webcast replay of the call can be accessed from 12:00 p.m. ET on February 28, 2018 through May 22, 2018 by visiting http://www.Lowes.com/investor and clicking on Webcasts and then on Lowe’s Fourth Quarter 2017 Earnings Conference Call.

Lowe’s Companies, Inc. (NYSE: LOW) is a FORTUNE® 50 home improvement company serving more than 17 million customers a week in the United States, Canada and Mexico. With fiscal year 2016 sales of $65.0 billion, Lowe’s and its related businesses operate or service more than 2,370 home improvement and hardware stores and employ over 290,000 people. Founded in 1946 and based in Mooresville, N.C., Lowe’s supports the communities it serves through programs that focus on K-12 public education and community improvement projects. For more information, visit Lowes.com.

Media Inquiries:

704-758-2917
PublicRelations@Lowes.com

SOURCE: Lowe’s Companies, Inc.

Posted on February 22, 2018 by Retail News Editor

ARA calls for a competitive corporate tax rate to sustain growth and drive prosperity in Australian retail industry

: ARA calls for a competitive corporate tax rate to sustain growth and drive prosperity in Australian retail industry

Melbourne, Australia, 2018-Feb-22 — /EPR Retail News/ — As Australia’s leading peak body for the retail industry, the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) is calling for a competitive corporate tax rate to sustain growth and drive prosperity for the country’s $310 billion sector.

Russell Zimmerman, Executive Director of the ARA, said the ARA works hard to advocate and support employers and employees working in the sector as the Australian retail industry employs 10% of the working population.

“The current trading environment has seen many retailers doing it tough, with last year’s retail trade figures averaging a 2.76% year-on-year growth, and retail trade growth down more than 1% on the 50 year average in 2017, the Government needs to intervene and offer some relief to the struggling industry,” Mr Zimmerman said.

“At 30%, Australia has one of the highest corporate tax rates in the advanced economic world, making it difficult for retailers to invest in jobs growth and increased wages that would benefit the economy.”

The ARA insists the present corporate tax rate currently discourages international and Australian businesses from investing in Australia and calls on all sides of politics to drive investment and accept the economic benefits tax cuts will create.

“The current corporate tax rate discourages international and Australian businesses from investing in Australia and providing further job opportunities, as many Australian and offshore businesses choose to invest in, and headquarters overseas,” Mr Zimmerman said.

“The Senate needs to cooperate with the Government’s plan to lower the corporate tax rate below 25% so local retailers are able to invest in their businesses and grow the Australian economy.”

Retailers have told the ARA that balancing rising cost pressures with low sales growth and a high-tax environment, it is becoming increasingly difficult with some retailers even struggling to pay their rent.

“As retailers are already struggling in a volatile trading environment, the ARA will continue to advocate for a reduced company tax rate before it stifles future employment and growth,” Mr Zimmerman said.

“The Australian retail industry currently employs more than 1.2 million people. If the corporate tax rate is not reduced to be more in line with our international counterparts, employees and the underemployed will be the ones who suffer, as employees are the heart and soul of retail.”

About the Australian Retailers Association:

Founded in 1903, the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) is Australia’s largest retail association, representing the country’s $310 billion sector, which employs more than 1.2 million people. As Australia’s leading retail peak body industry, the ARA is a strong pro-active advocate for Australian retail and works to ensure retail success by informing, protecting, advocating, educating and saving money for its 7,500 independent and national retail members throughout Australia. For more information, visit www.retail.org.au or call 1300 368 041.

For interview opportunities with ARA Spokesperson call the ARA Media Line on 0439 612 556, or email media@retail.org.au

Source: ARA

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Posted on February 20, 2018 by Retail News Editor

Gap Inc. to host fourth quarter 2017 results conference call and webcast on March 1, 2018

SAN FRANCISCO, 2018-Feb-20 — /EPR Retail News/ — Gap Inc. (NYSE: GPS) will report its fourth quarter 2017 earnings results by press release on March 1, 2018 at 1:15 p.m. Pacific Time.

In addition, the company will host a summary of Gap Inc.’s fourth quarter results during a live conference call and webcast on March 1, 2018 from approximately 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Pacific Time. The conference call can be accessed by calling 1-855-5000-GPS or 1-855-500-0477 (participant passcode: 7581315). International callers may dial 1-323-794-2078. The webcast can be accessed at www.gapinc.com.

About Gap Inc.

Gap Inc. is a leading global retailer offering clothing, accessories, and personal care products for men, women, and children under the Gap, Banana Republic, Old Navy, Athleta, Intermix, and Weddington Way brands. Fiscal year 2016 net sales were $15.5 billion. Gap Inc. products are available for purchase in more than 90 countries worldwide through about 3,200 company-operated stores, about 450 franchise stores, and e-commerce sites. For more information, please visit www.gapinc.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:
press@gap.com

SOURCE: Gap Inc.

Posted on February 20, 2018 by Retail News Editor

AHOLD DELHAIZE SHARE BUYBACK UPDATE: 2,640,446 COMMON SHARES REPURCHASED IN THE PERIOD FROM FEBRUARY 12, 2017 UP TO AND INCLUDING FEBRUARY 16, 2017

Zaandam, the Netherlands, 2018-Feb-20 — /EPR Retail News/ — Ahold Delhaize has repurchased 2,640,446 of Ahold Delhaize common shares in the period from February 12, 2018 up to and including February 16, 2018. The shares were repurchased at an average price of €17.71 per share for a total consideration of €46.7 million. These repurchases were made as part of the €2 billion share buyback program announced on November 8, 2017.

The total number of shares repurchased under this program to date is 18,215,091 common shares for a total consideration of €328.8 million.

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

This press release is issued in connection with the disclosure and reporting obligation set out in Article 2(2) of the EU Regulation that contains technical standards for buyback programs.

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

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

Source: Ahold Delhaize

Posted on February 9, 2018 by EPR Retail News Editors

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

BRENTWOOD, Tenn., 2018-Feb-09 — /EPR Retail News/ — Tractor Supply Company (NASDAQ:TSCO), the largest rural lifestyle retail store chain in the United States, today 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 March 13, 2018, to stockholders of record as of the close of business on February 26, 2018.

About Tractor Supply Company
Founded in 1938, Tractor Supply Company is the largest rural lifestyle retail store chain in the United States. 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. At December 30, 2017, the Company operated 1,685 Tractor Supply stores in 49 states and an e-commerce website at www.tractorsupply.com.

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 December 30, 2017, the Company operated 168 Petsense stores in 26 states. For more information on Petsense, visit www.petsense.com.

Tractor Supply Company
Investor Contacts:
Mary Winn Pilkington (615) 440-4212
Beth Thompson (615) 440-4102

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

Source: Tractor Supply Company/ GLOBE NEWSWIRE

Posted on February 8, 2018 by Retail News Editor

Stater Bros. participates in the AHA/ASA’s “Life is Why We Give” campaign to raise funds in the fight against heart disease and stroke

Stater Bros. has raised over $5.4 MILLION in the fight against heart disease and stroke

SAN BERNARDINO, CALIFORNIA, 2018-Feb-08 — /EPR Retail News/ — Stater Bros. is proud to continue its longstanding tradition of giving back to the communities it serves by supporting the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association (AHA/ASA) in furthering its mission to build healthier lives free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke.

For the 17th consecutive year, all 171 Stater Bros. supermarkets will participate in the AHA/ASA’s “Life is Why We Give” campaign to raise funds in the fight against heart disease and stroke. The campaign begins on February 7th and concludes on February 18th.

Stater Bros.’ customers can participate by purchasing $1 and $5 paper hearts at the cash registers. Customers are encouraged to write their name or the name of a loved one on the hearts, which will be displayed inside the store.

Funds raised through the “Life is Why We Give” campaign will go back into our local communities to teach Hands-Only CPR to residents, involve students in fitness programs and implement educational programs in multicultural communities.

Last year, Stater Bros. customers and employees raised $316,000 for the American Heart Association. Through the Company’s longstanding and unwavering commitment, over $5.4 million has been raised to support heart disease and stroke prevention programs in the communities served by Stater Bros.

“Stater Bros. is rooted in the tradition of giving back to communities where we operate and we are honored to once again join the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association in the fight against heart disease and stroke,” stated Nancy Negrette, Chairman and President for Stater Bros. Charities. “Many of our ‘valued’ customers and loyal ‘Family’ members have been affected by heart disease and stroke and we are pleased that the funds from this campaign benefit the local areas where we operate,” Negrette concluded.

“The American Heart Association is committed to fighting heart disease and stroke and improving the quality of life for all Americans,” said Matt Webb, Chairman of the American Heart Association Inland Empire Board of Directors. “Our work would not be possible without the generous support of committed companies like Stater Bros Charities who provide donation opportunities to their customers. These corporate citizens provide a force multiplying impact to our work and help us get ever closer to a world without needless suffering or death.”

“We value our ongoing relationship with Stater Bros Charities and appreciate the opportunity given to their customers to support the American Heart Association via the Life Is Why We Give™ fundraising campaign,” said Brandy Wiegand, Executive Director of the American Heart Association Inland Empire Division.

About Stater Bros. Charities

Stater Bros. Charities is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that supports critical needs in the communities where Stater Bros. employees live and work. Since 2008, Stater Bros. Charities has provided funding to countless local organizations and causes that benefit hunger relief, children’s well-being, education, health, help for our nation’s veterans, and active service members. Funds are raised throughout the year from generous customers, supplier friends, and caring members of the Stater Bros. Supermarket Family. For more information visit staterbros.com.

About Stater Bros. Markets

Stater Bros. was founded in 1936 in Yucaipa, California, and has grown steadily through the years to become the largest privately owned Supermarket Chain in Southern California and the largest private employer in both San Bernardino County and Riverside County. The Company currently operates 171 Supermarkets, and there are approximately 18,000 members of the Stater Bros. Supermarket Family. For more information, visit staterbros.com.

About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is the largest voluntary health organization fighting heart disease, stroke and other cardiovascular diseases in communities across America. These diseases devastate millions of Americans of all ages and cause nearly 950,000 deaths each year. The Association funded $14.6 million in research in California, Nevada and Utah, as well as public and professional education and community service programs.

Stater Bros. Charities ~ Caring For The Communities We Serve!

Source: Stater Bros. Markets

Posted on February 8, 2018 by Retail News Editor

Raley’s Food For Families holiday bag drive raised 3,759,535 meals, a 29% increase over last year

This year’s donation marks a 29 percent increase over last year, and totals nearly $4 million worth of donated food.

Fair Oaks, CA, 2018-Feb-08 — /EPR Retail News/ — For more than 140,000 families in communities surrounding Raley’s stores, this holiday season was a more fulfilling one. This year’s annual Raley’s Food For Families holiday bag drive, which provides wholesome food for northern California and Nevada families, culminated in a donation of 3,759,535 meals, representing a 29% increase over last year.

The Raley’s Food For Families holiday bag drive, in its 31st year, is an initiative that takes place across Raley’s family of stores to help nourish its community. From November 1 through December 31, Raley’s customers were encouraged to donate $10 for a bag of groceries worth almost $30 retail. The result: a historic drive, resulting in 144,597 total bags donated. Altogether, Raley’s customers donated $1,445,970, and Raley’s contributed more than $2.5 million- totaling more than $4 million in food donated!

Each holiday bag was comprised of more than 23 pounds of nourishing and good-for-you foods; enough to feed a family of four 26 meals. Raley’s team members specifically selected nutritious items for the bag that met one or more of the company’s Shelf Guide labels. In fact, 80 percent of the items met Raley’s nutrient-dense and minimally processed attributes. Items in the bag ranged from a gallon of milk and fresh bananas and potatoes to whole grain penne pasta and Raley’s Purely Made organic pasta sauce.

“Year after year, Raley’s goes above and beyond in supporting our families with quality food they can feel good about eating. This season’s donations are no different. And while we’re grateful for help over the holidays, hunger is a problem year-round,” says Dave Martinez, Executive Director of Placer Food Bank. “We thank Raley’s and its customers for being committed to helping our members’ health throughout the entire year.”

All of Raley’s 122 stores that were open at the time of the holiday bag program participated. They each worked with local food bank partners to distribute the bags to those in need in the community. Raley’s Food For Families accepts donations all year to cater to the needs of their nearby food banks.

“I cannot say enough how proud I am of Raley’s customers and team members for providing such tremendous support to the annual bag drive. The results demonstrate the power of teamwork and banding together to donate nourishing and much-needed food to bring health and happiness to our community,” said Becca Whitman, Community Relations Manager for Raley’s & Executive Director for Raley’s Food for Families.

The customers are the real heroes that Raley’s commends for stepping up to help their fellow community members. Raley’s could not have put food on as many tables or fed as many mouths without the support of the community. Over the past few weeks, a few customers have shared their inspiring stories:

Pauline Litchfield from Yuba City, CA, gathered her entire months’ worth of tips from her job to donate 7 bags to the drive.
Nob Hill Checker David Watkins donated more than 100 plush teddy bears (purchased by his customers) to children at local organizations like Santa Clara Medical, Kaiser Permanente and Argonaut Elementary School. Raley’s sells the teddy bears for $10 to fundraise for the Food For Families program.
TaxAudit, a partner of Raley’s Food For Families, had 76 team members participate in a Turkey Trot scavenger hunt to gather and pack 100 bags of food. Through their efforts, they felt they could make an impact in their local community during the holiday season.
Raley’s combined top ten checkers in this drive raised 321,776 meals for their communities, representing almost 10% of the total meals raised.

Raley’s Food For Families program runs 365 days of the year to cater to those in need. For more information and to learn how to donate, visit www.foodforfamilies.org.

For information about our stores, please contact Chelsea Minor, Director of PR and Public Affairs at CMinor1@raleys.com.

Source: Raley’s Food

Posted on February 8, 2018 by Retail News Editor

SSP UK names its new Charity of the Year Macmillan Cancer Support

: SSP UK names its new Charity of the Year Macmillan Cancer Support

LONDON, 2018-Feb-08 — /EPR Retail News/ — SSP UK, a leading provider of food and drink concessions in travel locations, has named Macmillan Cancer Support as its new Charity of the Year. Macmillan provides emotional, practical, financial and medical support to people and their friends and families living with cancer. During 2018, SSP colleagues across the company’s c.700 UK outlets will be raising much needed funds for the charity.

Colleague fundraising will take place across hundreds of SSP sites up and down the country, as well as its Birmingham and London offices. SSP colleagues will join together to raise funds for the charity as part of four dedicated fundraising events throughout the year, including Macmillan’s well-known annual Coffee Morning. Macmillan will also receive a third of the donations received into the SSP Foundation’s till-point collection tins, and a £100,000 grant from the SSP Foundation will give a further boost to the fundraising.

Gini Smith, Macmillan Cancer Support Corporate Partnership Manager, said, “We’re delighted to welcome SSP UK on board as a new corporate partner. Almost one in two of us will receive a cancer diagnosis by 2020, and Macmillan’s aim is to be there for everyone living with cancer when they need it most. We rely on much-needed donations from companies such as SSP to be able to provide support during treatment or help with work and money worries.”

Simon Smith, CEO of SSP UK & Ireland, added, “We’re pleased to be working together with Macmillan to fund expert cancer support. We have around 10,000 colleagues across the country, which means that unfortunately, cancer will have affected many of us. But Macmillan is there to help people live life, and by fundraising for this important charity, our colleagues will help people get the support they need to face cancer. We are looking forward to a year of fun charitable events and hope to raise thousands for Macmillan in the process.”

MEDIA CONTACT:

Templemere Public Relations
+44 (0) 1306 735574
press.office@ssp-intl.com

Source: SSP

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Posted on February 6, 2018 by Retail News Editor

Kroger’s organic produce business achieves $1 billion in annual sales

CINCINNATI, 2018-Feb-06 — /EPR Retail News/ — The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) announced today (Feb. 1, 2018) its organic produce business has achieved $1 billion in annual sales.

“Kroger offers one of the largest organic produce departments in America, and we are proud to have led the way in making this category more mainstream, accessible and affordable,” said Robert Clark, Kroger’s senior vice president of merchandising. “We have a dedicated procurement team that partners with more than 300 organic produce growers and suppliers every year to bring our customers an exciting selection of organic fruits and vegetables.”

According to IRI, the U.S. organic produce market reached $5 billion in 2016 and it is growing.

“We know our customers want both organic and conventional choices,” Mr. Clark added. “Kroger makes it easy for our customers to shop how they want for their families. It’s just one more way we are redefining the customer experience as outlined in our Restock Kroger plan.”

Kroger’s top-selling organic produce includes bananas, apples, strawberries, blackberries, blueberries and bagged salads.

Kroger recently announced Simple Truth® reached $2 billion in annual sales, marking the growing popularity of its brand of natural, organic and free-from products.

At The Kroger Co., we are dedicated to our purpose: to Feed the Human Spirit™. We are 453,000 associates who serve nearly nine million customers every day in 2,793 retail food stores under a variety of local banner names in 35 states and the District of Columbia. Our Family of Companies operates an expanding ClickList offering – a personalized order online service – in addition to 2,258 pharmacies, 783 convenience stores, 307 fine jewelry stores, 222 retail health clinics, 1,472 supermarket fuel centers and 38 food production plants in the United States. Our Company has been recognized as one of America’s most generous companies for our support of more than 100 Feeding America food bank partners, breast cancer research and awareness, the military and their families, and more than 145,000 community organizations including schools. As a leader in supplier diversity, we are a proud member of the Billion Dollar Roundtable.

SOURCE: The Kroger Co.

Posted on February 3, 2018 by Retail News Editor

U.S. Bank and Diebold Nixdorf to enable Super Bowl to experience the future possibilities of connected commerce

Diebold Nixdorf contributes collaborative, innovative banking technology concepts at The U.S. Bank Possibilities Lounge in Minneapolis

MINNEAPOLIS, 2018-Feb-03 — /EPR Retail News/ — Diebold Nixdorf (NYSE: DBD), a world leader in driving connected commerce, has partnered with U.S. Bank to showcase the future of banking at the nation’s largest sporting event from January 31 to February 4. During a fan festival open to the public, Super Bowl LIVE will host the U.S. Bank Possibilities Lounge in downtown Minneapolis, which will include Diebold Nixdorf’s Essence concept, in addition to an e-commerce locker solution, U.S. Bank and Diebold Nixdorf will enable fans to experience the future possibilities of connected commerce through virtual payments demonstrations using contactless transactions and virtual currency.

At the U.S. Bank Possibilities Lounge, fans will interact with Essence, Diebold Nixdorf’s streamlined, self-service touchpoint concept that transforms everyday transactions into modern encounters. Capturing the look and feel of the ATM experience of the future, and with a striking, modern appearance, Diebold Nixdorf’s Essence concept bridges the physical and digital worlds of cash and consumer transactions.

Fans will also be able to experience Diebold Nixdorf’s e-commerce locker concept, which will feature an opportunity to receive a limited, exclusive gift centered around the big game. Driven by mobile, influenced by data and embedded with security, Diebold Nixdorf’s e-commerce locker concept connects industry trends to create tailored consumer experiences across retail and banking. By scanning their wearable devices to see if they are a recipient, the guest will receive a congratulatory notification indicating in which locker they can pick up their item. The locker approach seamlessly merges online, mobile and store through a ‘click-and-collect’ model that is quick and convenient for consumers.

In the U.S. Bank Possibilities Lounge, fans will also view a video wall of rotating content with fun facts on spending around the big game. In addition to Diebold Nixdorf, U.S. Bank has partnered with Visa® and Zelle for the event.

“Having the Big Game in our headquarters market in Minneapolis is truly a unique opportunity for us to showcase our community,” said Dominic Venturo, chief innovation officer for U.S. Bank. “We are particularly excited about the U.S. Bank Possibilities Lounge in partnership with VISA and Diebold Nixdorf as it will be a fun and interactive way for fans to engage in the future of payments. We believe fans will find this virtual contactless payments journey a truly fascinating experience.”

“We are thrilled to share our innovations centered on the future of self-service around the big game. Sporting events are one of the many opportunities the banking and retail industry have to provide a more dynamic and convenient customer experience,” said Richard Harris, vice president, design and concept development, Diebold Nixdorf. “Our collaborative partnership with U.S. Bank is truly bringing the future of connected commerce to Super Bowl LIVE. Through our presence at the U.S. Bank Possibilities Lounge, guests will be able to experience firsthand the innovative products that will soon become everyday reality.”

U.S. Bank will take over McCormick & Schmick’s restaurant on the corner of Ninth Street and Nicollet Mallfor the U.S. Bank Possibilities Lounge as a part of Super Bowl LIVE. The lounge will be free to the public from January 31 to February 4.

About U.S. Bank

U.S. Bancorp, with 73,000 employees and $462 billion in assets as of December 31, 2017, is the parent company of U.S. Bank, the fifth-largest bank in the United States. The Minneapolis-based bank blends its branch and ATM network with mobile and online tools that allow customers to bank how, when and where they prefer. U.S. Bank is committed to serving its millions of retail, small business, wealth management, payment, wholesale and securities services customers across the country and around the world as a trusted financial partner, a commitment recognized by the Ethisphere Institute naming the bank a 2017 World’s Most Ethical Company. Visit U.S. Bank online or follow on social media to stay up to date with company news.

About Diebold Nixdorf

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

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

Media Relations:

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

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

SOURCE: Diebold Nixdorf

Posted on February 2, 2018 by Retail News Editor

Alibaba to acquire 33% equity interest in Ant Financial

Hangzhou, China, 2018-Feb-02 — /EPR Retail News/ — Alibaba Group Holding Limited (NYSE: BABA, “Alibaba”) and Ant Small and Micro Financial Services Group Co., Ltd. (“Ant Financial”) today (February 1, 2018) announced that pursuant to 2014 transaction agreements, Alibaba will acquire a 33% equity interest in Ant Financial. The parties have agreed to certain amendments to their 2014 transaction agreements to facilitate the transaction.

Under the terms of the amended agreements, Alibaba will acquire newly-issued equity from Ant Financial in exchange for certain intellectual property rights owned by Alibaba exclusively related to Ant Financial. There will be no cash impact to Alibaba following completion of the transaction. Upon closing, the companies will terminate the current profit-sharing arrangement under which Ant Financial pays royalty and technology service fees in an amount equal to 37.5% of its pre-tax profits to Alibaba.

Daniel Zhang, Chief Executive Officer of Alibaba Group, said, “This transaction is a significant step for Alibaba to enhance our long-term strategic relationship with Ant Financial as we continue to pursue our mission to make it easy to do business anywhere. Importantly, an equity stake in Ant Financial enables Alibaba and our shareholders to participate in the future growth of the financial technology sector, as well as the benefits of user growth and improved customer experience.”

Eric Jing, Chief Executive Officer of Ant Financial, said, “We are pleased to strengthen our strategic relationship with Alibaba. This marks the next step in our collaboration to generate more strategic synergies and deliver tremendous value proposition to our customers. We look forward to continuing to work with Alibaba as we pursue our mission to bring the world equal opportunities.”

The transaction was reviewed and approved by a committee of non-executive directors, the majority of whom are independent under NYSE rules (the “Alibaba Independent Committee”), the audit committee of Alibaba’s board and the full Alibaba board of directors. The closing of the transaction is subject to customary conditions. Alibaba will acquire the equity interest in Ant Financial through a Chinese domestic subsidiary.

Morrison & Foerster and King & Wood Mallesons acted as legal advisors, Credit Suisse acted as financial advisor and PricewaterhouseCoopers acted as tax advisor to the Alibaba Independent Committee. Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz, Sidley Austin LLP and Fangda Partners acted as legal advisors to Ant Financial.

A detailed summary of the transaction has been filed by Alibaba on Form 6-K with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

About Alibaba Group
Alibaba Group’s mission is to make it easy to do business anywhere. The company aims to build the future infrastructure of commerce. It envisions that its customers will meet, work and live at Alibaba, and that it will be a company that lasts at least 102 years.

About Ant Financial
Ant Financial Services Group is focused on serving small and micro enterprises, as well as individuals. Ant Financial is dedicated to bringing the world more equal opportunities through building a technology-driven open ecosystem and working with other financial institutions to support the future financial needs of society. Brands under Ant Financial Services Group include Alipay, Ant Fortune, Zhima Credit, MYbank.

For more information on Ant Financial, please visit our website at www.antfin.com or follow us on Twitter @AntFinancial.

Safe Harbor Statements
This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provision of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “potential,” “continue,” “ongoing,” “targets” and similar statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, including but limited to the following: uncertainties as to the timing of the consummation of the transaction and the parties’ ability to consummate the transaction; the timely satisfaction of the closing conditions; regulatory approvals and uncertainties; unexpected costs, charges or expenses resulting from the transaction; potential adverse reactions or changes to business relationship resulting from the transaction; changes in laws, regulations and regulatory environment; fluctuations in general economic and business conditions; and actions by third parties, including government agencies. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in Alibaba’s filings with the SEC. All information provided in this announcement is as of the date of this announcement and are based on assumptions that we believe to be reasonable as of this date, and Alibaba does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable law.

Media Contacts:
Brion Tingler
Alibaba Group
+1 917 528 1992
brion.tingler@alibaba-inc.com

Fanny Wu
Ant Financial
+86 139 1026 8281
chen.wc@antfin.com

Rachel Chan
Alibaba Group
+852 9400 0979
rachelchan@alibaba-inc.com

Source: Alibaba Group

Posted on February 1, 2018 by Retail News Editor

Overstock.com launches a digitally-driven investment platform (robo-advising)

Unbiased artificial intelligence drives financial advising

SALT LAKE CITY, 2018-Feb-01 — /EPR Retail News/ — Overstock.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:OSTK) announces the launch of a digitally-driven investment platform (otherwise known as robo-advising), presented by tZERO Advisors. The service is accessible to investors through the online retailer’s FinanceHub™.

For a monthly fee of $9.95, investors can either select from a group of pre-established Adaptive Dynamic Portfolios matched to their investment profiles, or create a customized blend of these portfolios.

“This service introduces robo-advising investment management services to our millions of customers and continues Overstock’s commitment to bridging Wall Street and e-commerce,” said Patrick M. Byrne, Overstock’s founder and CEO.

tZERO Advisors is powered by FusionIQ’s B2C investment platform. FusionIQ is an innovative fintech company that provides intelligent investment solutions that enable easy online investing. The platform will also use FusionIQ’s proprietary algorithms and scoring system to develop and rebalance the Adaptive Dynamic Portfolios based upon dynamic market factors.

“Overstock currently delivers world-class service and award-winning customer experiences to as many as 40 million unique visitors per month. They trust us with their home and, more recently, auto purchases,” continued Byrne. “We are excited about this new program that offers our customers the opportunity to bring artificial intelligence to their financial planning.”

In addition to robo-advising, Overstock’s FinanceHub™ offers a one-stop source for brokerage and advising products, lending products, credit card products, and insurance products presented by various financial institutions.

About Overstock.com

Overstock.com, Inc. (Common Shares (NASDAQ:OSTK) / Series A Preferred (Medici Ventures’ tZERO platform: OSTKP) / Series B Preferred (OTCQX:OSTBP)) is an online retailer based in Salt Lake City, Utah that sells a broad range of products at low prices, including furniture, décor, rugs, bedding, and home improvement. In addition to home goods, Overstock.com offers a variety of products including jewelry, electronics, apparel, and more, as well as a marketplace providing customers access to hundreds of thousands of products from third-party sellers. Additional stores include Pet Adoptions and Worldstock.com dedicated to selling artisan-crafted products from around the world. Forbes ranked Overstock in its list of the Top 100 Most Trustworthy Companies in 2014. Overstock regularly posts information about the company and other related matters under Investor Relations on its website, http://www.overstock.com.

About tZERO Advisors

tZERO Advisors, LLC is an SEC Registered Investment Advisor. tZERO Advisors seeks to use technology to provide investors the best possible equity based portfolio for their stated risk tolerance. The tZERO offering includes: innovative, risk tolerance matching US based equity portfolios, dynamic portfolios designed to address changing markets, and analytics and algorithms that drive US equity based portfolios. Investing in securities involves risk and there is always the potential of losing money when you invest in securities. Before investing consider your objectives, tZERO charges and related expenses. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. This is not an offer or advice to buy or sell securities.

About FusionIQ

FusionIQ is an innovative fintech company that provides intelligent investment solutions that enable easy online investing. Through a low-cost digitally driven investment platform, investors benefit from FusionIQ’s real-time proprietary financial research and algorithm for scoring and ranking securities in four dimensional factors (fundamental, technical, sentiment and momentum) that are constantly adjusted for various market environments.

Media Contact:
Mark Delcorps
+1 (801) 947-3564
pr@overstock.com

Investor Contact:
ir@overstock.com

Source: Overstock.com, Inc./globenewswire

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