Category Archives: Furniture

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Lowe’s Canada opens its 63rd Lowe’s store in Canada

Lowe’s Canada celebrates the opening of the 63rd Lowe’s store in Canada

Boucherville, QC, 2018-Feb-06 — /EPR Retail News/ — Lowe’s Canada opened today (February 1, 2018) its 63rd store under the Lowe’s banner in Canada. Located at 955 St. Albert Trail in St. Albert, Alberta, this new store marks the sixth Lowe’s location in the Greater Edmonton Area. It represents a local investment in excess of $18 million and created 137 new permanent jobs with an additional 30 to 50 seasonal roles.

“We have seen a great response from customers in the Greater Edmonton Area and we are thrilled to open this new Lowe’s location in St. Albert today,” said Guy Beaumier, Executive Vice-President, Lowe’s Big Box Retail. “Lowe’s unique customer experience and extensive product selection are what set us apart and we want to keep growing our network in 2018 to bring our offering to even more DIYers and contractor customers throughout the country.”

The St. Albert Lowe’s store features a retail offering space totaling more than 107,000 square feet, including 86,800 square feet of retail sales space and an adjacent Garden Centre of 21,100 square feet. To meet customers’ every home improvement needs, the store offers 40,000 products in-stock with thousands more available through special order and on Lowes.ca.

A Unique Customer Experience

The new St. Albert Lowe’s will offer a unique and exciting retail experience, including:

  • An extensive assortment of top-of-the line appliances, including LG, Samsung, Bosch, Kitchen Aid, Frigidaire, Whirlpool and GE.
  • A year-round selection of BBQ’s including top brands such as Weber, Broil King, Char Broil and Master Forge.
  • A wide assortment of seasonal products for patio, holidays, Halloween, etc. (i.e. the latest fashion trends in patio, great selection of outdoor heating, etc.)
  • A variety of snow blowers, and other outdoor power equipment items in brands such as John Deere, Cub Cadet, Husqavarna, and Lowe’s exclusive Kobalt brand.
  • A broad selection of fashion plumbing i.e. tubs, showers, toilets, vanities, sinks and faucets with high profile brands such as Kohler and Grohe.
  • An extensive assortment of stylish home and outdoor décor, and home organization products for the house and garage.
  • A wide range of building materials, power and hand tools to meet the needs of DIYers and contractors alike.
  • Access to more than 100,000 products on www.lowes.ca.

Today, local dignitaries and Lowe’s executives joined employees from the store to celebrate the grand opening with an official board cutting ceremony and community grant presentation. Lowe’s Canada donated $5,000 to the St. Albert Community Information and Volunteer Centre to help them promote volunteering opportunities with local youth.

Grand Opening Events

Grand opening activities for the new store, where customers can enjoy free sessions, giveaways and contests, will continue until Monday. These include:

  • Children’s Workshop for families on Saturday, Saturday, February 3 at 10 a.m.
  • Interactive autograph signing and Q&A session with HGTV’s Bryan Baeumler on Saturday, February 3, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
  • Giveaways including: Sprite shower filter (first 75 customers, Thursday only); Sylvania A19 LED 60-watt light bulb (first 1,000 customers, Friday only); $25 Lowe’s gift card (first 200 customers, Saturday only) and a Bosch 32-pce Tough bit set (first 200 customers, Sunday only).
  • Customers can also enter to win 1 of 4 prizes.
  • Contractor exclusive VIP event on Monday, February 5 from 12 to 2 p.m. There will be a draw to win 1 of 3 $250 Lowe’s gift cards and contractors can fill out a ballot to win 1 of 4 tool prizes. To register, contractors can call the store at 780.544.5830 and ask to speak with the Contractor Specialist to request an invite.

About Lowe’s Canada

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

For more information, please contact:

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

Source: Lowe’s Companies, Inc.

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Lowe’s Canada to convert 17 Marcil stores in Quebec to the RONA banner on February 26

  • RONA continues to expand with the addition of the 17 Marcil stores
  • Marcil customers to have access to an enhanced products and services offering

Boucherville, QC, 2018-Jan-11 — /EPR Retail News/ — Lowe’s Canada announced earlier today (January 9, 2018) that the 17 Marcil stores located in Quebec will be converted to the RONA banner on February 26. This decision furthers Lowe’s Canada’s vision to make RONA the #1 banner in the building centre market (small to medium stores, also known as “proximity stores”) in the country.

“We are committed to RONA and the proximity building center model as one of Lowe’s Canada pillar of growth,” said Serge Éthier, Executive Vice-President of RONA Proximity. “RONA and Marcil operate in the same market segment, have complementary locations, and both serve a large client base of contractors and pros. It was therefore natural to combine the strengths of both banners. This decision will allow us to maximize our products and services offering to Marcil retail and professional customers, while simplifying our operations,” he added.

Starting February 26, consumers who used to shop at Marcil will see the product selection available to them double, going from approximately 20 000 items to more than 40 000 products available in store and on rona.ca. In addition, they will benefit from the introduction of new product categories, such as home appliances and a wide seasonal department, as well as from a transactional website that will not only let them consult the product catalogue and verify store inventory, but also order online and collect their items in store or have them delivered by truck.

“We are happy to fuel RONA’s growth with the addition of these 17 stores and their seasoned teams, and we are impatient to show the Marcil customers the numerous advantages of the RONA banner,” concluded M. Éthier

About RONA
Created in 1939, RONA is a banner of Lowe’s Canada, one of Canada’s leading home improvement company. Spanning the entire country, its vast network of more than 430 stores includes both corporate stores and independent affiliated dealers. Known for its large in-store and online product selection as well as for its installation services, RONA also provides expert support and advice to its retail and pro customers for their building and renovation projects. For more information, visit rona.caor follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

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

For more information, please contact:

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

Source: Lowe’s Companies, Inc.

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Overstock.com launches augmented reality (AR) feature within its iOS shopping app

Amit Goyal, Overstock.com’s SVP of software engineering, chairs VRARA’s global retail and e-commerce committee and forms the Association’s Utah chapter

SALT LAKE CITY, 2018-Jan-11 — /EPR Retail News/ — Months after Overstock.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:OSTK) announced the launch of its augmented reality (AR) feature within its iOS shopping app, the organization’s senior vice president of software engineering, Amit Goyal, was named as the chair to VR/AR Association (VRARA)’s global retail and e-commerce committee. Along with Goyal’s responsibility as chair, he will serve as president of the newly formed Utah chapter, growing VRARA to 51 global chapters, 19 of which are located in the U.S.

“We’re thrilled to have Amit Goyal join VRARA and chair our retail and eCommerce committee,” said Kris Kolo, Global Executive Director of the VR/AR Association. “His retail industry expertise and insight from building Overstock’s shopping app and AR function marks a crucial addition to VRARA’s growth.”

The award-winning iOS shopping app allows shoppers to view how products, like furniture, rugs, décor and other home goods, fit in their home using a smart phone or tablet with iOS11. With true-to-life-size 3D models in the highest resolution, shoppers have an accurate representation of the product directly in their home or office.

“Augmented reality is changing the way people shop,” said Goyal. “At Overstock, we focus on price, assortment and convenience, and our augmented reality feature brings an innovative convenience to shoppers. It’s important for our customers to see how these products will fit with their décor or simply if it will fit in their living rooms. So, we have invested significant resources to insure we are at the leading edge of AR and we’re proud to bring what we’ve learned and achieved to VRARA.”

Comprised of almost 4,000 companies, VRARA is an international organization designed to foster collaboration between innovative companies and people in the virtual reality and augmented reality ecosystem that accelerates growth, fosters research and education, helps develop industry standards, connects member organizations and promotes the services of member companies.

The new AR app feature is currently available on the iOS version of the retailer’s shopping app, and utilizes Apple’s ARKit, which was included in the iOS 11 operating system update. Android app AR functionality featuring Google’s new ARCore technology will follow when that operating system is released.

Overstock’s highly-rated shopping app has been awarded five consecutive Mobile App Awards from the Mobile Web Association. The app is available for download from both the App Store and Google Play.

The VR/AR Association is hosting the biggest VR AR online event from January 16 to 29, 2018 with more than 65 speakers, 3000 RSVPs and 10 symposiums focused on education, enterprise, storytelling, retail, AEC, marketing, advertising, webVR and arcades/LBE/Haptics. You can hear from Goyal on January 18 on VR and AR in retail. For more information on the conference, visit www.thevrara.com/events

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.

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

Kris Kolo, VRAR Association (VRARA)
kris@thevrara.com

Investor Contact:
ir@overstock.com

SOURCE: Overstock.com, Inc./globenewswire

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Alliance Data Systems Corporation to provide branded credit card services in the United States for IKEA Group

  • New credit program to support the rapid growth of IKEA in the U.S. 
  • Seamless application in stores and online will enable customers to begin enjoying benefits of the loyalty-driven card
  • Alliance Data’s proprietary data assets will deliver custom analytics and insights to drive top-line sales and increase visits online and in-store

PLANO, TX, 2018-Jan-10 — /EPR Retail News/ — Alliance Data Systems Corporation (NYSE: ADS), a leading global provider of data-driven marketing and loyalty solutions, today (Jan. 9, 2018) announced its Columbus, Ohio-based card services business, a premier provider of branded private label, co-brand and business credit card programs, has signed a new agreement to provide branded credit card services in the United States for IKEA Group (www.ikea.com), the world’s largest furniture retailer. The IKEA Group operates 47 stores in the U.S. and a total of 362 in 29 countries around the world. IKEA aims to offer consumers home furnishing solutions of good design and function at affordable prices.

Alliance Data will create a loyalty-driven credit card program that combines customer insights and industry benchmarking to develop a customized rewards and benefits package tailored for the unique IKEA customer base. The co-branded rewards card can be used for both IKEA purchases and for everyday spending needs such as gas, groceries and utilities. The card will incorporate custom program perks designed to recognize customers for their loyalty. In order to make the card as affordable and rewarding as possible, IKEA Group in the U.S. has designed the card without an annual fee, and will reinvest resources from the card to offer customers more generous rewards. Alliance Data will leverage its digital and mobile expertise throughout the customer’s shopping journey, including its Frictionless Mobile CreditSM, which provides a seamless application experience–throughout the store or online–and puts customers in control of how and where they want to initiate the experience.

In addition, the new IKEA Projekt Card in the U.S. will function as a store-branded financing solution for qualified customers doing major home decorating and renovation projects, such as a dream kitchen. It will provide special financing options, allowing customers to pay for larger purchases over time.

“Making life better and easier for the many people drives everything we do at IKEA, and we were looking for a like-minded credit marketing partner that is passionate about the same values,” said Jacqueline DeChamps, chief operating officer at IKEA U.S. “Alliance Data really understands our company and will deliver meaningful credit and loyalty programs, while constantly innovating based on our customer needs. Leveraging Alliance Data’s skillset in loyalty and marketing, we are excited about how this new partnership will enhance our customers’ shopping experience across channels with added convenience and benefits.”

“Alliance Data and IKEA share a common culture focused on doing what is right for customers, the community, and the environment,” said Melisa Miller, president of Alliance Data’s card services business. “We are thrilled to embark on this exciting new partnership to provide an unparalleled customer experience through our credit programs. We are confident that our lifecycle marketing approach will attract existing and new IKEA customers as lifelong cardmembers, motivated by a credit and loyalty experience that reflects the deliberately different approach that has earned IKEA its leadership position in the industry.”

IKEA U.S. utilized the services of the International Law Firm of Alston & Bird to consummate the transaction.

About IKEA
Since its 1943 founding in Sweden, IKEA has offered home furnishings of good design and function at low prices. The IKEA Group operates 362 IKEA stores in 29 countries, including 47 in the U.S. IKEA incorporates sustainability into day-to-day business and supports initiatives that benefit children and the environment. For more information see IKEA-USA.com, @IKEAUSANews, @IKEAUSA or IKEAUSA on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram and Pinterest.

About Alliance Data’s card services business
Alliance Data’s card services business is a leading provider of tailored marketing and loyalty solutions, delivered through branded credit programs that drive more profitable relationships between our brand partners and their cardmembers. We offer private label, co-brand, and business card products to many of the world’s most recognizable brands across a multitude of channels.

We uphold our Know more. Sell more.® promise by leveraging unmatched customer insights, advanced analytics, and broad-reaching innovative capabilities. It’s how we deliver increased sales to our partners, build enduring loyalty to their brands, and provide more value to our cardmembers. Alliance Data’s card services business is a proud part of the Alliance Data enterprise. To learn more, visit www.KnowMoreSellMore.com or follow us on Twitter @Know_SellMore.

About Alliance Data
Alliance Data® (NYSE: ADS) is a leading global provider of data-driven marketing and loyalty solutions serving large, consumer-based industries. The Company creates and deploys customized solutions, enhancing the critical customer marketing experience; the result is measurably changing consumer behavior while driving business growth and profitability for some of today’s most recognizable brands. Alliance Data helps its clients create and increase customer loyalty through solutions that engage millions of customers each day across multiple touch points using traditional, digital, mobile and emerging technologies. An S&P 500 and Fortune 500 company headquartered in Plano, Texas, Alliance Data consists of three businesses that together employ more than 17,000 associates at approximately 100 locations worldwide.

Alliance Data’s card services business is a leading provider of marketing-driven branded credit card programs. Epsilon® is a leading provider of multichannel, data-driven technologies and marketing services, and also includes Conversant®, a leader in personalized digital marketing. LoyaltyOne® owns and operates the AIR MILES® Reward Program, Canada’s premier coalition loyalty program, and Netherlands-based BrandLoyalty, a global provider of tailor-made loyalty programs for grocers.

Investor information about Alliance Data’s businesses may be found here.

Follow Alliance Data on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube.

Forward Looking Statements
This release contains 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. Forward-looking statements give our expectations or forecasts of future events and can generally be identified by the use of words such as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “intend,” “project,” “plan,” “likely,” “may,” “should” or other words or phrases of similar import. Similarly, statements that describe our business strategy, outlook, objectives, plans, intentions or goals also are forward-looking statements.

We believe that our expectations are based on reasonable assumptions. Forward-looking statements, however, are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the projections, anticipated results or other expectations expressed in this release, and no assurances can be given that our expectations will prove to have been correct. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, factors set forth in the Risk Factors section in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the most recently ended fiscal year, which may be updated in Item 1A of, or elsewhere in, our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q filed for periods subsequent to such Form 10-K.

Our forward-looking statements speak only as of the date made, and we undertake no obligation, other than as required by applicable law, to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, subsequent events, anticipated or unanticipated circumstances or otherwise.

Contact:
Latisha Bracy
(610) 834-0180, x5615

Source: IKEA

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The Home Depot® acquires leading online retailer of textiles and home décor products The Company Store

ATLANTA, 2017-Dec-28 — /EPR Retail News/ — The Home Depot® announced today (Dec 21, 2017) that it has acquired The Company Store, a leading online retailer of textiles and home décor products, from Hanover Direct. The deal closed on December 19 and terms were not disclosed.

In addition to its success as an online retailer, The Company Store has strong relationships and industry leading capabilities in the development and sourcing of high quality textiles across bedding, bath, and related categories.  Founded in 1911, The Company Store has a rich history of providing products that are highly sought after by customers as they put the finishing touches on a room.

“The acquisition of The Company Store provides product development and sourcing capabilities to help us expand our online décor business into broader categories across the entire home,” said Craig Menear, chairman, CEO and president of The Home Depot.  “On behalf of our 400,000-plus associates, I want to welcome The Company Store’s talented associates into The Home Depot family.”

The acquisition does not include The Company Store’s five retail locations.

The Home Depot is the world’s largest home improvement specialty retailer, with 2,284 retail stores in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, 10 Canadian provinces and Mexico. In fiscal 2016, The Home Depot had sales of $94.6 billion and earnings of $8.0 billion. The Company employs more than 400,000 associates. The Home Depot’s stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: HD) and is included in the Dow Jones industrial average and Standard & Poor’s 500 index.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements contained herein constitute “forward-looking statements” as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements may relate to, among other things, the demand for our products and services; effects of competition; state of the residential construction, housing and home improvement markets; capital allocation and expenditures; financial outlook; and integration of The Company Store into our organization and the ability to recognize the anticipated synergies and benefits of the acquisition. Forward-looking statements are based on currently available information and our current assumptions, expectations and projections about future events. You should not rely on our forward-looking statements. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to future events, risks and uncertainties – many of which are beyond our control or are currently unknown to us – as well as potentially inaccurate assumptions that could cause actual results to differ materially from our expectations and projections. These risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to those described in Item 1A, “Risk Factors,” and elsewhere in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for our fiscal year ended January 29, 2017 and in our subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q.

Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and we do not undertake to update these statements other than as required by law. You are advised, however, to review any further disclosures we make on related subjects in our periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

SOURCE: The Home Depot

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Blockchain leader Bitt launches new mMoney digital payment product in Barbados

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, 2017-Dec-22 — /EPR Retail News/ — Blockchain leader Bitt recently launched its new mMoney digital payment product in Barbados. The Barbados Entrepreneurship Foundation (BEF) and several of its strategic partners participated in the soft launch, which marked the region’s first “digital dollar only” event.  Overstock.com’s (NASDAQ:OSTK) blockchain investment vehicle Medici Ventures owns stock and options on 34.8 percent of Bitt.

Under the mMoney brand, Bitt is bringing to market a blockchain-based mobile wallet that allows users to participate in digital transactions on their smartphones from a secure account. The accounts will be 100 percent backed by segregated funds in appropriate currencies in Bitt’s custody. “mMoney is mobile money. It is safer, faster and smarter, which means that entrepreneurs as well as Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) can benefit from the merchant solution,” said Rawdon Adams, Bitt’s CEO.

Adams was careful to explain how Bitt’s new solution differs from traditional mobile banking. While both must observe compliance and Know Your Customer (KYC) regulations, mobile banking requires that customers have a traditional account at a financial institution, commercial bank, or credit union. In contrast, Bitt’s new mobile money allows users to store, send, and receive digital fiat currency using their phones without having to link to traditional financial institutions.

This will result in significant savings of time and money for MSMEs that currently face high bank fees and lengthy waiting times for transactions to clear. “mMoney is designed to support increased financial inclusion,” said Adams. “It gives merchants the ability to offer an innovative payment option which is, among other things, faster, more secure, more inclusive, more convenient, and more cost-effective than existing options.”

mMoney is only the beginning of the company’s plans to create a digital money ecosystem in the Caribbean and beyond. According to the World Bank, approximately 38 percent of the world is unbanked. In the US, about seven to eight percent of the population is unbanked, and these figures increase exponentially in developing nations with the Caribbean at approximately forty-nine percent.

Bitt has recently reached an agreement with a central bank elsewhere in the hemisphere to digitize its fiat currency, a significant step toward surfacing the billions of dollars of value currently trapped in informal economies among unbanked citizens and microentrepreneurs. Bitt will serve as a platform on top of which users will eventually be able to access loans, insurance, and other financial products.

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 t0.com, 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.

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.

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.

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@mediciventures.com

SOURCE: Overstock.com, Inc./globenewswire

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IKEA Group allocates $113 million into the retirement funds of 123,000 co-workers

Conshohocken, 2017-Dec-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — IKEA Group co-workers around the globe will receive a special thanks from the company as part of the IKEA Tack! retirement fund. IKEA recently announced that Tack!, which means ‘thank you’ in Swedish, will allocate $113 million* total into the retirement funds of 123,000 IKEA co-workers throughout its corporate, retail and distribution centers. For U.S. co-workers, each will receive $1,403 into their Tack! retirement fund.

“At IKEA, no matter where you work in our organization you are contributing to our success and continued growth. We believe it’s important to recognize our co-workers for their hard work and loyalty and celebrate our successes together,” said Lars Petersson, IKEA U.S. President. “Our contribution to each co-worker’s Tack! retirement fund is just one way we can show our gratitude and demonstrate our commitment to being a great place to work.”

The global funding is divided between all IKEA Group countries, based on each country’s proportion of the total salary and wages. Every co-worker gets the same amount regardless of position or salary, and part-time co-workers are rewarded in proportion to their hours worked. Tack! was introduced in 2013 and since then the IKEA Group has paid out $600 (€509) million globally.

IKEA U.S. has been recognized as an employer-of-choice for its outstanding co-worker benefits including parental leave policy and minimum wage structure. The company has recently received these awards: FORTUNE 2017, Best Companies to Work For; FORTUNE 2017, 50 Best Workplaces for Diversity; Glassdoor 2017 Best Places to Work; 2017 PEOPLE Companies that Care; Fatherly: The 50 Best Places to Work for New Dads in 2017; and three Glassdoor 2017 Awards: Best Places to Work, Highest Rated CEOs, Best Places to Interview.

About IKEA 
Since its 1943 founding in Sweden, IKEA has offered home furnishings of good design and function at low prices so the majority of people can afford them. There are currently more than 392 IKEA stores in 48 countries, including 46 in the U.S. IKEA incorporates sustainability into day-to-day business and supports initiatives that benefit children and the environment. For more information see IKEA-USA.com, @IKEAUSANews, @IKEAUSA or IKEAUSA on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram and Pinterest.

*€96 million euro = $113 million U.S. dollars at a conversion of $1.18 to one euro ** The global funding is divided between all IKEA Group countries, based on each country’s proportion of the total salary and wages. The payout is dependent on the total results of IKEA Group during the previous financial year.

Contact:
IKEA U.S. Press Office
press.us@ikea.com
1-866-329-4532

Source: IKEA Group

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Overstock.com takes ParityPledge to improve opportunity for advancement of women into leadership positions

The ParityPledge aims to bring gender equality to the highest levels of business

SALT LAKE CITY, 2017-Dec-12 — /EPR Retail News/ — Overstock.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:OSTK) and its blockchain subsidiary, Medici Ventures, announce they have taken the ParityPledge to increase their commitment to improving the opportunity for advancement of women into leadership positions. By taking the ParityPledge, Overstock and Medici Ventures have committed to interview at least one qualified female candidate for every open executive position, vice president and above, including the C-suite and board of directors.

The ParityPledge is an initiative of Parity.org, a non-profit organization focused on decreasing the amount of gender inequality within businesses. It was founded to correct the blunt reality of gender disparity at the top of companies today, with women representing only 20 percent of S&P 500 corporate executive teams and boards.

“We’re proud to take the ParityPledge to help further our commitment to equal representation of women at the leadership level,” said Meghan Tuohig, Overstock’s vice president of people care. “ParityPledge is a great external compliment to the internal work we have started with the Overstock Women’s Network, which is aimed at providing opportunities for career growth and advancement for our female associates.”

The Overstock Women’s Network was founded by Tuohig in 2017, and uses programming and education for all associates, regardless of gender, to inspire, support, and celebrate females in Overstock’s professional community.

“The most effective teams tend to have diversity amongst their members, bringing different viewpoints and experiences to the table when finding solutions for difficult problems,” said Overstock.com President Saum Noursalehi. “Taking the ParityPledge reaffirms Overstock’s commitment to diversity, and to finding and promoting the best possible talent.”

“We are thankful for organizations like Overstock.com and Medici Ventures that are willing to become role models for change,” said Cathrin Stickney, Parity.org founder and CEO. “We believe their public commitment and example will help us realize exponential progress toward reaching parity at the top.”

“As the technological community in Utah continues to grow, groups like Parity.org and the ParityPledge will help ensure our community grows in a way that is welcoming and empowering for women,” said Jonathan Johnson, Medici Ventures president and Silicon Slopes board member. “Medici Ventures supports this effort that will have a positive impact on so many talented members of the Utahbusiness community.”

Parity.org is scheduled to announce the full list of founding companies, sponsors, and partners during the Silicon Slopes conference in January 2018.

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.com, Peernova, Bitt, SettleMint, Factom, and IdentityMind, Spera and Symbiont. The company’s majority-owned financial technology company, tZERO.com, executed the world’s first blockchain-based stock offering in December 2016.

About Parity.org

Parity.org is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to gender equality at the highest ranks of business leadership. Parity.org is assembling a founding advisory board of some of the most recognized men and women leaders in business. The Parity.org URL was generously donated by The Kennedy Forum. You can follow Parity.org on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.

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, Inc./globenewswire

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Lowe’s announces the appointment of Sylvain Prud’homme as president, international

Prud’homme also retains role as President and CEO of Lowe’s Canada

Mooresville, N.C., 2017-Dec-07 — /EPR Retail News/ — Lowe’s Companies, Inc. (NYSE: LOW) today (12/06/2017) announced that Sylvain Prud’homme has been appointed president, international, effective Dec. 15. He will report to Chairman, President & CEO Robert A. Niblock and will remain based in Boucherville, Quebec. Prud’homme will continue to serve as president and CEO of Lowe’s Canada and add responsibilities for the Mexico business, with the president of Lowe’s Mexico now reporting to him. This appointment follows the announcement that Richard D. Maltsbarger will be transitioning to chief operating officer of the U.S. business in February.

“Sylvain’s outstanding operational leadership has been instrumental in growing the company into one of the leading home improvement retailers in Canada,” said Niblock. “We continue to be pleased with the integration of RONA and believe we are well positioned for continued success in Canada.”

Niblock added, “Sylvain has more than three decades of experience in the retail industry and we feel confident that he will continue to drive operational excellence for our operations in Canada and Mexico.”

Prud’homme joined as president of Lowe’s Canada in 2013 and, following the acquisition of RONA in 2016, was named president and CEO of Lowe’s Canada. He is responsible for driving the Canadian home improvement business for Lowe’s, including RONA’s network of stores and independent dealers operating under other banners.

“I’m honored to lead strong leadership teams in both Canada and Mexico and continue building on the positive momentum and growth in these operations over the past several years,” said Prud’homme.

Prior to Lowe’s Canada, Prud’homme served as executive vice president of operations and merchandising for Loblaw Companies Limited. He was also president of western operations for Sobeys Inc. and spent several years as senior vice president of operations and merchandising for Walmart Canada.

Prud’homme earned an MBA from the HEC Montreal business school. He is a member of the board of directors for the Retail Council of Canada.

About Lowe’s
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.

Canada Media Inqueries:

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

Shareholders’/Analysts’ Inquiries:

Tiffany Mason
Lowe’s Companies, Inc.
704-758-2033
tiffany.l.mason@lowes.com

Source: Lowe’s Companies, Inc.

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Web Marketing Association names Overstock.com’s mobile app the Best Retail Mobile Application of 2017

Sixth consecutive year winning Web Marketing Association’s Mobile Web Award

SALT LAKE CITY, 2017-Dec-07 — /EPR Retail News/ — For the sixth consecutive year, the Web Marketing Association has named Overstock.com (NASDAQ:OSTK) a Mobile Web Award winner, honoring the retailer’s mobile app as the Best Retail Mobile Application of 2017. The leading online home retailer’s iOS app was recognized for its many innovative and intuitive features, including its recently-added augmented reality (AR) feature.

The Web Marketing Association holds the Best Mobile Application awards as part of the annual Mobile Web Award Competition, which is the first and only industry-based award competition focusing solely on responsive mobile web and application development. Judging for the award focuses on outstanding achievement in mobile development while recognizing growth and creativity in the mobile application space.

“We’re proud that our mobile apps are continuing to lead development within the retail space,” said Amit Goyal, Overstock’s senior vice president of software development. “Customers using our apps have the full assortment and convenience of shopping on Overstock at their fingertips, helping to create a personalized and stress-free shopping experience.”

Overstock’s shopping app also received recognition in 2017 after introducing AR to the iOS version with September’s iOS 11 update. Customers can use AR within the app to view thousands of true-to-life-size 3D models in their own room, helping them to see exactly how products will fit in the space or match their existing style. This technology is changing the way consumers design their homes and purchase home goods.

Holiday shoppers can use Overstock’s app to help them find the missing piece for hosting a perfect holiday event, or the perfect gift for a friend or loved one. Overstock will also help customers ensure their orders arrive in time for the holidays by providing clearly messaged shipping timeframes on product pages.

The ground-shipping cutoff date for customers to receive their purchases by Christmas is December 15, with expedited and overnight shipping options available for last-minute needs.

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.

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:
Mark Delcorps
Overstock.com, Inc.
+1 (801) 947-3564
pr@overstock.com

Investor Contact:
ir@overstock.com

SOURCE: Overstock.com, Inc./globenewswire

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Macy’s declares Friday, Dec. 8 as National Believe Day; doubles its donation to Make-A-Wish and Wishes Across America

Macy’s declares Friday, Dec. 8 as National Believe Day; doubles its donation to Make-A-Wish and Wishes Across America

 

NEW YORK, 2017-Dec-07 — /EPR Retail News/ — As part of its 10th annual Believe campaign, Macy’s has declared this Friday, Dec. 8, National Believe Day – a day focused on spreading the beloved holiday program’s message of generosity and hope. Throughout the Believe campaign, Macy’s collects customers’ letters to Santa in-store and online at macys.com/believe. For each letter submitted from Nov. 3 through Dec. 24, Macy’s has pledged to donate $1, up to $1 million, to Make-A-Wish® to help grant the wishes of children with critical illnesses. In celebration of the ninth annual National Believe Day, Macy’s will again double its donation to Make-A-Wish, providing an additional $1per letter, up to an extra $1 million, above the existing $1 million campaign goal. Additionally, this week Macy’s will help grant special wishes for children in cities from coast-to-coast as part of Wishes Across America.

Macy’s and Make-A-Wish® celebrate Brynn, 17, at a Wishes Across America event as part of Macy’s 10th annual Believe campaign, in Salt Lake City on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017. (Douglas Barnes/AP Images for Macy’s)

“Each National Believe Day, we are awed by the outpouring of support from our customers who submit their Santa letters to help Macy’s double its donation to Make-A-Wish,” said Holly Thomas, group vice president of Cause Marketing for Macy’s. “We are also especially thankful to our employees, partners at Make-A-Wish and community members nationwide who spend countless hours planning and granting special Wishes Across America. The spirit of the Believe campaign truly comes alive as we all work together to create these joyful and magical moments.”

Macy’s has donated more than $15 million to Make-A-Wish and helped to grant thousands of wishes through Believe since the campaign was introduced in 2008. This year’s Wishes Across America will benefit children including Brynn, 17, who wishes to be a model, and Jazlean, 13, who wishes to go to New York. The impact of wishes is undeniable and widespread – not only do they increase hope and happiness for kids, but their families, volunteers, supporters, medical professionals, and entire communities are transformed by the experience.

National Believe Day is the pinnacle moment of the Believe campaign, which was inspired by the true story of Virginia O’Hanlon – an 8-year-old child who wrote a letter to the New York Sun newspaper in 1897 asking if there really was a Santa Claus. The response from the paper’s editor, Francis P. Church, became an iconic piece of journalistic history and the most reprinted editorial of all time. “Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus,” Church wrote. “He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist.”

To learn more about Macy’s Believe campaign, visit macys.com/believe. For additional media materials, including images and b-roll, visit pimsmultimedia.com/macys-holiday2017/believe.php

About Macy’s

Macy’s, the largest retail brand of Macy’s, Inc. (NYSE:M) delivers fashion and affordable luxury to customers at approximately 670 locations in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and Guam, as well as to customers in the U.S. and more than 100 international destinations through its leading online store at macys.com. Via its stores, e-commerce site, mobile and social platforms, Macy’s offers distinctive assortments including the most desired family of exclusive and fashion brands for him, her and home. Macy’s is known for such epic events as Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, as well as spectacular fashion shows, culinary events, flower shows and celebrity appearances. Macy’s flagship stores – including Herald Square in New York City, Union Square in San Francisco, State Street in Chicago, and Dadeland in Miami and South Coast Plaza in southern California – are known internationally and are leading destinations for visitors. Building on a more than 150-year tradition, and with the collective support of customers and employees, Macy’s helps strengthen communities by supporting local and national charities giving more than $54 million each year, plus 180,000 hours of volunteer service, to help make a difference in the lives of our customers.

For Macy’s media materials, including images and contacts, please visit our online pressroom at macys.com/pressroom.

About Make-A-Wish

Make-A-Wish grants the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy. According to a 2011 U.S. study of wish impact, most health professionals surveyed believe a wish-come-true has positive impacts on the health of children. Kids say wishes give them renewed strength to fight their illness, and their parents say these experiences help strengthen the entire family. Headquartered in Phoenix, Make-A-Wish is one of the world’s leading children’s charities, serving children in every community in the United States and its territories. With the help of generous donors and more than 33,000 volunteers, Make-A-Wish grants a wish somewhere in the country every 34 minutes. It has granted more than 300,000 wishes since its inception in 1980; more than 15,300 in 2016 alone. Visit Make-A-Wish at www.wish.org to learn more.

Macy’s Media Relations:
Julie Strider Fukami
646-429-5213
julie.striderfukami@macys.com

Source: Macy’s

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Macy’s to hire an additional 7,000 seasonal associates for 2017 Christmas and holiday season

CINCINNATI, 2017-Dec-04 — /EPR Retail News/ — Macy’s, Inc. (NYSE:M) today (Dec. 1, 2017) announced plans to hire an additional 7,000 seasonal associates for positions at its Macy’s stores nationwide for the 2017 Christmas and holiday season.

To discover open positions and opportunities for on-site interviews, candidates should apply in advance at macysJOBS.com. Positions in all stores nationwide are searchable on the easy-to-navigate hiring sites. Candidates who submit applications online will receive a response via email.

“Macy’s has had a great start to this holiday season with high customer volume across our business. Due to the strong traffic in our stores, we are adding associates in our stores across the country to ensure that customers continue to receive the high level of service they have come to expect from us,” said John Harper, Macy’s chief stores officer. “We are excited to be further expanding our seasonal workforce. Seasonal workers play an important role in the Macy’s holiday shopping experience and, in addition to a competitive hourly income, they will experience a flexible working environment and benefit from a merchandise discount.”

Seasonal store associates at Macy’s serve customers on the selling floor and work in store operations positions, including fulfilling buy online, pick-up-in-store orders. Most seasonal positions are part-time, often with flexibility to fit the availability of the individuals hired.

About Macy’s, Inc.

Macy’s, Inc. is one of the nation’s premier retailers. With fiscal 2016 sales of $25.778 billion and approximately 140,000 employees, the company operates more than 700 department stores under the nameplates Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s, and approximately 160 specialty stores that include Bloomingdale’s The Outlet, Bluemercury and Macy’s Backstage. Macy’s, Inc. operates stores in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Guam and Puerto Rico, as well as macys.com, bloomingdales.com and bluemercury.com. Bloomingdale’s stores in Dubai and Kuwait are operated by Al Tayer Group LLC under license agreements. Macy’s, Inc. has corporate offices in Cincinnati, Ohio, and New York, New York.

Media:
Blair Fasbender Rosenberg
646-429-6032
media@macys.com

Investors:
Monica Koehler
513-579-7780
investors@macys.com

Source: Macy’s, Inc.

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The Michaels Companies 3Q 2017 financial results: Total net sales increased 1.1

  • Comparable store sales increased 1.0%, including the negative impact of approximately 80 basis points related to lost sales from hurricanes
  • Operating income of $153.9 million
  • Diluted EPS of $0.44, including the negative impact of approximately $0.01 related to hurricanes

IRVING, Texas, 2017-Dec-04 — /EPR Retail News/ — The Michaels Companies, Inc. (NASDAQ: MIK) today (2017-11-30) announced financial results for the third quarter ended October 28, 2017.

“We are pleased we delivered third quarter operating income in-line with our guidance and diluted EPS above our guidance. We are seeing nice momentum in our business, excluding the disruption from the hurricanes, and we are encouraged by the customer’s response to the improvements we have made, both in-stores and online, to make it easier for customers to MAKE,” said Chuck Rubin, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “As we turn to the fourth quarter, we believe our holiday assortment is bigger and better than ever, and our teams are ready to serve customers, both in stores and online. We are pleased with the start to the quarter, although we recognize the heart of the season still lies ahead. We are excited about our plans, and we are confident the investments we’ve made to create an easier, more integrated omnichannel experience will drive continued momentum and deliver stronger financial results.”

Third Quarter Highlights

  • Net sales increased 1.1% to $1,240.2 million, from $1,227.2 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2016, inclusive of an estimated $10 million in lost sales related to Hurricanes Harvey and Irma. The increase in net sales was primarily a result of a 1.0% increase in comparable store sales (0.5% on a constant currency basis), and sales from the operation of 16 new Michaels stores (net of closures) in fiscal 2017. As expected, this increase was partially offset by lower wholesale revenues.
  • Gross profit increased 3.8% to $484.1 million, from $466.6 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2016. As a percentage of net sales, gross profit increased 100 basis points to 39.0% compared to 38.0% in the third quarter of fiscal 2016. The increase, as a percentage of net sales, was due to higher merchandise margin resulting from our ongoing sourcing initiatives, the timing of distribution-related costs and the comparison against $0.7 million of net non-recurring, inventory-related purchase accounting adjustments recorded in the third quarter of fiscal 2016 related to the acquisition of Lamrite West. These benefits were partially offset by higher inventory shrinkage.
  • Selling, general and administrative expense, including store pre-opening costs, (“SG&A”) increased 3.1% to $330.3 million, or 26.6% of sales, from $320.3 million, or 26.1% of sales, in the third quarter of fiscal 2016. The increase in SG&A was primarily due to an increase in incentive-based compensation, marketing expenses and healthcare expenses. The increase was partially offset by a comparison against $1.6 million of net non-recurring integration expenses recorded in the third quarter of fiscal 2016 related to the acquisition of Lamrite West.
  • Operating income increased 5.1% to $153.9 million, or 12.4% of sales, compared to $146.3 million, or 11.9% of sales, in the third quarter of fiscal 2016. Excluding net non-recurring, inventory-related purchase accounting adjustments and integration expenses associated with the acquisition of Lamrite West, adjusted operating income for the third quarter of fiscal 2016 was $148.6 million.
  • Interest expense increased $1.3 million to $32.8 million, from $31.5 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2016 primarily due to higher interest rates on the Company’s variable rate asset-based revolving credit facility and term loan credit facility.
  • The effective tax rate was 34.3% for the third quarter of fiscal 2017, compared to 29.0% for the third quarter of fiscal 2016. The higher effective tax rate was primarily due to certain federal tax credits recognized in the third quarter of fiscal 2016 and an increase in state taxes, partially offset by benefits realized from the Company’s direct sourcing initiatives.
  • Net income increased 4.3% to $79.8 million, compared to $76.5 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2016. Excluding net non-recurring, inventory-related purchase accounting adjustments, integration expenses associated with the acquisition of Lamrite West, and losses on early extinguishment of debt and refinancing costs, less related tax adjustments, adjusted net income for the third quarter of fiscal 2016 was $82.1 million.
  • Diluted earnings per share increased 18.9% to $0.44, from $0.37 in the third quarter of fiscal 2016. Diluted weighted-average common shares outstanding for the quarter were 182.0 million compared with 205.3 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2016. Excluding net non-recurring, inventory-related purchase accounting adjustments, integration expenses associated with the acquisition of Lamrite West, and losses on early extinguishment of debt and refinancing costs, less related tax adjustments, adjusted diluted earnings per share in the third quarter of fiscal 2016 was $0.40.
  • During the third quarter of fiscal 2017, the Company opened eight new Michaels stores and one new Pat Catan’s store. The Company also closed one Michaels store and three Aaron Brothers stores during the quarter. In the third quarter of fiscal 2016, the Company opened 14 new Michaels stores and closed two Michaels stores. At the end of the third quarter, the Company operated 1,237 Michaels stores, 98 Aaron Brothers stores, and 36 Pat Catan’s stores.
  • The Company ended the third quarter of fiscal 2017 with $176.8 million in cash, $2.9 billion in total debt and $675.7 million in availability under its asset-based revolving credit facility.
  • Total merchandise inventory at the end of the third quarter was $1,404.2 million compared to $1,394.1 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2016. Average Michaels inventory on a per store basis, inclusive of distribution centers, in transit and inventory for the Company’s e-commerce site, decreased 1.2% to $1,028,000, compared to $1,040,000 at the end of the third quarter of fiscal 2016.
  • During the quarter, the Company purchased 2.4 million shares, or $48.6 million, under its share repurchase authorization. The total remaining authorization for future repurchases is approximately $350.0 million. The share repurchase program does not have an expiration date, and the timing and number of repurchase transactions under the program will depend on market conditions, corporate considerations, debt agreements, and regulatory requirements.

Fourth Quarter and Fiscal Year 2017 Outlook:

For fiscal 2017, a 53-week year, the Company expects:

  • total net sales growth of 2.9% to 3.2%, or 2.7% to 3.0% on a constant currency basis, including the impact of the 53rd week, which is planned to be approximately $80 million;
  • comparable store sales to increase 0.6% to 0.9%, or 0.4% to 0.7% on a constant currency basis;
  • to open 18 new stores, including 17 new Michaels stores and one new Pat Catan’s store; relocate 12 Michaels stores; and close 17 stores, including 15 Aaron Brothers stores and two Michaels stores;
  • operating income to be in the range of $735 million to $745 million;
  • interest expense to be approximately $130 million;
  • the effective tax rate to be between 34% and 35%;
  • diluted earnings per common share to be between $2.13 and $2.16, based on diluted weighted average common shares of approximately 186 million; and
  • capital expenditures to be approximately $120 million.

The outlook for fiscal 2017 includes approximately $0.01 of favorable earnings per share impact related to 2.4 million shares repurchased in the third quarter of fiscal 2017 and approximately $0.01 of favorable earnings per share impact related to a stronger Canadian Dollar. The Company now expects the Canadian exchange rate will average $1.29 for the full year.

For the fourth quarter of fiscal 2017, the Company expects:

  • comparable store sales to increase 1.5% to 2.5%, or 1.0% to 2.0% on a constant currency basis;
  • to open one new Michaels store and close four Aaron Brothers stores;
  • operating income to be between $354 million and $364 million;
  • interest expense to be approximately $35 million;
  • the effective tax rate to be between 34% and 35%; and
  • diluted earnings per common share to be between $1.15 and $1.18, based on diluted weighted average common shares of 182 million.

Conference Call Information

A conference call to discuss third quarter financial results is scheduled for today, November 30, 2017, at 8:00 a.m. Central Time. Investors who would like to join the conference call are encouraged to pre-register for the conference call using the following link: http://dpregister.com/10113759. Callers who pre-register will be given a phone number and a unique PIN to gain immediate access to the call and bypass the live operator. Participants may pre-register at any time, including up to and after the call start time.

Investors without internet access or who are unable to pre-register can join the call by dialing (844) 340-4762 or (412) 717-9617.

The conference call will also be webcast at http://investors.michaels.com/. To listen to the live call, please go to the website at least 15 minutes before the call is scheduled to begin to register and download any necessary audio software. The webcast will be accessible for 30 days after the call. Additionally, a telephone replay will be available until December 14, 2017, by dialing (877) 344-7529 or (412) 317-0088, access code 10113759.

Non-GAAP Information

This press release includes non-GAAP measures including operating income excluding net non-recurring, inventory-related purchase accounting adjustments and integration expenses associated with the acquisition of Lamrite West (“Adjusted operating income”); net income excluding net non-recurring, inventory-related purchase accounting adjustments and integration expenses associated with the acquisition of Lamrite West and losses on early extinguishment of debt and refinancing costs, less related tax adjustments, (“Adjusted net income”); and diluted earnings per share excluding net non-recurring, inventory-related purchase accounting adjustments and integration expenses associated with the acquisition of Lamrite West and losses on early extinguishment of debt and refinancing costs, less related tax adjustments (“Adjusted diluted earnings per share”). The Company has reconciled these non-GAAP financial measures with the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures in a table accompanying this release. The Company believes that these non-GAAP financial measures not only provide its management with comparable financial data for internal financial analysis but also provide meaningful supplemental information to investors. Specifically, these non-GAAP financial measures allow investors to better understand the performance of the Company’s business and facilitate a meaningful evaluation of its quarterly and fiscal 2017 diluted earnings per common share and actual results on a comparable basis with its quarterly and fiscal 2016 results.

In evaluating these non-GAAP financial measures, investors should be aware that in the future the Company may incur expenses or be involved in transactions that are the same as or similar to some of the adjustments in this presentation. The Company’s presentation of non-GAAP financial measures should not be construed to imply that its future results will be unaffected by any such adjustments. The Company has provided this information as a means to evaluate the results of its ongoing operations. Other companies in the Company’s industry may calculate these items differently than it does. Each of these measures is not a measure of performance under GAAP and should not be considered as a substitute for the most directly comparable financial measures prepared in accordance with GAAP. Non-GAAP financial measures have limitations as analytical tools, and investors should not consider them in isolation or as a substitute for analysis of the Company’s results as reported under GAAP.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release includes forward-looking statements which reflect management’s current views and estimates regarding the Company’s industry, business strategy, goals, and expectations concerning its market position, future operations, margins, profitability, capital expenditures, share repurchases, liquidity and capital resources, and other financial and operating information. The words “anticipate,” “assume,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “forecast,” “future,” “guidance,” “imply,” “intend,” “may,” “outlook,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” and similar terms and phrases are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. The Company cannot assure investors that future developments affecting the Company will be those that it has anticipated. Actual results may differ materially from these expectations due to risks relating to the effect of economic uncertainty; substantial changes to fiscal and tax policies; our reliance on foreign suppliers; regulatory changes; the seasonality of our business; changes in customer demand; damage to the reputation of the Michaels brand or our private and exclusive brands; unexpected or unfavorable consumer responses to our promotional or merchandising programs; our failure to adequately maintain security and prevent unauthorized access to electronic and other confidential information; increased competition including internet-based competition from other retailers; and other risks and uncertainties including those identified under the heading “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), which is available at www.sec.gov, and other filings that the Company may make with the SEC in the future. If one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or if any of the Company’s assumptions prove incorrect, the Company’s actual results may vary in material respects from those projected in these forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement made by the Company in this news release speaks only as of the date on which the Company makes it. Factors or events that could cause the Company’s actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for the Company to predict all of them. The Company does not undertake and specifically disclaims any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by any applicable securities laws.

About The Michaels Companies, Inc.:

A Fortune 500® Company, The Michaels Companies, Inc. is North America’s largest specialty provider of arts, crafts, framing, floral, wall décor, and seasonal merchandise for Makers and do-it-yourself home decorators.

As of October 28, 2017, the Company owned and operated 1,371 stores in 49 states and Canada under the brands Michaels, Aaron Brothers and Pat Catan’s. The Michaels Companies, Inc., also owns Artistree, a manufacturer of high quality custom and specialty framing merchandise, and Darice, a premier wholesale distributor in the craft, gift and decor industry. The Michaels Companies, Inc. produces a number of private brands including Recollections®, Studio Decor®, Bead Landing®, Creatology®, Ashland®, Celebrate It®, ArtMinds®, Artist’s Loft®, Craft Smart®, Loops & Threads®, Make Market®, Foamies®, LockerLookz®, Imagin8®, and Sticky Sticks®. Learn more about Michaels at www.michaels.com.

Investor Contact:
Kiley F. Rawlins
CFA
972-409-7404
Kiley.Rawlins@michaels.com

ICR, Inc.
Farah Soi
CFA
203-682-8200
Farah.Soi@icrinc.com

Caitlin Morahan
203-682-8200
Caitlin.Morahan@icrinc.com

Financial Media Contact:
ICR, Inc.
Jessica Liddell/ Julia Young
203-682-8200
Michaels@icrinc.com

Source: The Michaels Companies, Inc.

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Office Depot Receives 100 percent on Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s Scorecard on LGBTQ Workplace Equality

BOCA RATON, Fla., 2017-Dec-01 — /EPR Retail News/ — Office Depot, Inc. (NASDAQ:ODP), a leading omnichannel provider of business services, products and technology today (November 30, 2017) announced that it received a perfect 100 percent score on the Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s 2018 Corporate Equality Index (CEI). The CEI is a national benchmarking survey and report on corporate policies and practices related to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) workplace equality.

“We are proud to be recognized by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation as one of the Best Places to Work for LGBT Equality for the seventh consecutive year,” said Zoë Maloney, senior vice president of human resources for Office Depot, Inc. “Office Depot is committed to an inclusive work environment that values and respects the talents and contributions of every associate. We recruit a workforce that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve, and offer equal opportunities for advancement, encouraging all employees to develop to their full potential.”

The 2018 CEI rated 947 businesses in the report, which evaluates LGBTQ-related policies and practices including non-discrimination workplace protections, domestic partner benefits, transgender-inclusive health care benefits, competency programs and public engagement with the LGBTQ community. Office Depot’s efforts in satisfying all of the CEI’s criteria results in a 100 percent ranking and the designation as a Best Place to Work for LGBTQ Equality.

The Human Rights Campaign Foundation is the educational arm of America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual transgender and queer people. HRC envisions a world where LGBTQ people are embraced as full members of society at home, at work and in every community.

About Office Depot, Inc.

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

The company had 2016 annual sales of approximately $11 billion, employed approximately 38,000 associates, and served consumers and businesses in North America and abroad with approximately 1,400 retail stores, award-winning e-commerce sites and a dedicated business-to-business sales organization – with a global network of wholly owned operations, franchisees, licensees and alliance partners. The company operates under several banner brands including Office Depot®, OfficeMax®, BizBox, CompuCom®, Complete Office and Grand&Toy®. The company’s portfolio of exclusive product brands include TUL®, Foray®, Brenton Studio®, Ativa®, WorkPro®, Realspace® and Highmark®.

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

Office Depot, Foray, Ativa and Realspace are trademarks of The Office Club, Inc. OfficeMax, TUL, Brenton Studio, WorkPro and Highmark are trademarks of OMX, Inc. CompuCom is a trademark of CompuCom Systems, Inc. and Complete Office is a trademark of Complete Office Solutions, LLC. Grand&Toy is a trademark of Grand & Toy, LLC in Canada. ©2017 Office Depot, Inc. All rights reserved. Any other product or company names mentioned herein are the trademarks of their respective owners.

Contact:
Rebecca Rakitin
561-438-1450
Rebecca.Rakitin@officedepot.com

Source: Office Depot, Inc.

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Doidge Building Centres Ltd. & Mahood Lumber Company will now bear the RONA banner on its six locations in Ontario

Doidge Building Centres Ltd. & Mahood Lumber Company joins the RONA network with six locations in Kincardine, Miller Lake, Bracebridge, Bradford, Welland and Fort Erie

Boucherville (Québec), 2017-Nov-29 — /EPR Retail News/ — Lowe’s Canada is proud to announce that a new affiliate dealer, Doidge Building Centres Ltd. & Mahood Lumber Company Limited, has joined its network and will now bear the RONA banner on its six locations in Ontario.

Previously associated with a competing banner for over 20 years, the six stores vary in size from 6,000 square feet to 16,000 square feet of retail and yard sizes ranging from 2.5 acres to 12 acres per store. All locations have a strong mix of retail and back end PRO business.

Owner Dennis Doidge explains his reasons for the change: “Our decision to change banners was based on the fact that we felt we were falling behind in the areas of e-commerce, marketing and branding. After careful consideration and discussions with all the major buying groups in the industry, we concluded that RONA was the one company that could give us the tools we need to better compete in this ever changing industry”.

Dennis and his wife Kathryn purchased the Miller Lake location in 1997 and since then have added five locations to their business. “The synergies between the six stores work very well. Whether it is shared trucking, purchasing or staffing, the efficiencies are there. We look forward to working with RONA to continue my expansion into additional stores and new markets”.

The entire management team takes great pride in the fact that the Kincardine location is a past recipient of the Hardlines “Outstanding Retailer Award” for Best Building Supply Home Centre Under 10,000 square feet.

“We are very happy to see that RONA not only brings us the branding we require, but also allows us our independence. This will enable us to compete on a national and regional basis. We look forward to the positive changes with our stores as RONA assists us to move into the future of retailing”.

“We are horoured to welcome Doidge Building Centres & Mahood Lumber Company, allowing us to expand our RONA network of independent affiliated dealers. Their dedication to the business and their retail focus is a strong asset and we are proud they chose the RONA banner to pursue their development and future expansion projects,” mentioned Philippe Element, Divisional Vice President, RONA Affiliate Dealer Sales and Services.

About RONA

Created in 1939, RONA is a banner of Lowe’s Canada, one of Canada’s leading home improvement company. Spanning the entire country, its vast network of more than 430 stores includes both corporate stores and independent affiliated dealers. Known for its large in-store and online product selection as well as for its installation services, RONA also provides expert support and advice to its retail and pro customers for their building and renovation projects. For more information, visit rona.caor follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

About Lowe’s Canada

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

For more information, please contact:

Valérie Gonzalo
Lowe’s Canada
Tel 514.626.6976
media@rona.ca
www.lowes.ca

Source: Lowe’s Companies, Inc.

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The Home Depot 2017 Investor and Analyst Conference, December 6

ATLANTA, 2017-Nov-28 — /EPR Retail News/ — The Home Depot®, the world’s largest home improvement retailer, announced today (Nov 27, 2017) that it will host its 2017 Investor and Analyst Conference on Wednesday, December 6, at 9 a.m. ET.

The event will be webcast live over the internet at http://ir.homedepot.com/events-and-presentations. A link will be displayed under “Events and Presentations.”

The Home Depot is the world’s largest home improvement specialty retailer, with 2,283 retail stores in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, 10 Canadian provinces and Mexico. In fiscal 2016, The Home Depot had sales of $94.6 billion and earnings of $8.0 billion. The Company employs more than 400,000 associates. The Home Depot’s stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: HD) and is included in the Dow Jones industrial average and Standard & Poor’s 500 index.

SOURCE: The Home Depot

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Debenhams unveils Home SS18

Debenhams unveils Home SS18

 

London, 2017-Nov-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — RJR. John Rocha puts a fresh spin on his signature artisan craftsmanship style for SS18. The new collection welcomes the introduction of delicate watercolour florals on crisp white ceramics and botanical appliqué bed linens. The seasonal colour palette is brought to life in the form of beautiful embossed and crocheted textiles in shades of sage and sherbet. Earthenware vases in soft pastels lend a natural, organic undertone to the range, bringing together a beautiful combination of simple, organic textures and calm ethereal beauty.

Star by Julien Macdonald returns for SS18 bursting with all of the decadent glamour and high fashion opulence we have come to expect from the designer. Shimmering metallic accessories and intricately beaded cushions bring an effortless touch of opulence to any room. Textiles are given a fresh revival with buttery-yellow and silver roses for a new direction on the designer’s signature boudoir look. Intricate ruffles and feather finishes add a further feel of luxury to the collection, bringing a refreshing update to the home for the new season.

The J by Jasper Conran collection combines contemporary design with statement colour for the ultimate in refined, modern luxury. Rich velvets and asymmetric prints in expensive golden hues and classic deep navy appear throughout the home in the form of luxurious bed linens, cushions and throws. Marble and copper kitchen pieces offer an expensive yet understated update to dining for SS18. The successful J by Jasper Conran lighting range is also extended for the new season with the introduction of the deep wooden Nordic influenced pendant and retro look table lamp. The fresh palette and new materials bring the designer’s strikingly bold, catwalk inspired collection into the new season in a subtle yet impactful fashion.

Make a bold statement for SS18 with MW by Matthew Williamson. The eclectic collection combines opulent contrasting prints and rich sumptuous texture, underpinned by dramatic jewel tones for a glamourous take on the tropical bohemian look. The Monkey is replaced by the Birds of Paradise as the character of the summer season, appearing on bright contrasting bed linens and vibrant wall art. A strong sense of fun and extravagance runs throughout the range. Flamingo candle holders, gold embellished pineapple cushions and colour pop jewellery boxes are simple yet effective additions to add an element of tropical luxury to any room for the new season.

Abigail Ahern has brought her uniquely creative touch to a new range of nautical inspired homeware for the Abigail Ahern/EDITION SS18 range. Drawing on her inspiration from around the world, the new collection receives a seasonal update with the introduction of a variety of new, lovable characters. Forrest green puffin lamps and pompom cushions, unexpected metallic whale planters and unique sea urchin vases continue the unmistakably quirky, striking look the range has become synonymous with. Abigail’s faux botanicals also make a welcomed return for the new season, complementing the mainline collection perfectly. The range exudes exotic nautical vibes with a hint of ethnic glamour for the new season.

The style influence of the Debenhams Hastings collection is a modern take on traditional nautical design with a fresh, contemporary twist. This comprehensive collection offers subtle, current updates for every room in the home. Seasonal dining is given an artisan feel with the introduction of abstract printed picnicwear, natural, rustic kitchen pieces and statement glass accessories. Classic printed textiles and traditional glass lanterns receive a touch of character with water weathered glass and natural textured jute. The modern maritime theme breathes fresh life throughout the home for SS18.

Watercolour pastel toned bedding, charmingly sweet tea party pieces and clean, bold lighting make up Debenhams latest homewear offering, Cosmo. Splashes of baby pink and muted blue, complimented with flicks of glamourous gold markings, fun pom-pom details and rich mohair textures bring to life a design-led collection of decorative accessories, textiles and bathroom designs. Lighting is abstract, combining interesting shapes and soft pastels. Layer together for a real pop of character or introduce individually for a more grown up touch of luxe.

CONTACTS:
For further information, sample and image requests please contact the Debenhams PR Team:
press.office@debenhams.com
020 3549 6420

Source: Debenhams

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Office Depot’s Elf Yourself® is back and better than ever

BOCA RATON, Fla., 2017-Nov-22 — /EPR Retail News/ — The jolly elf is a beloved icon of the holiday season. And this year, one of the most popular mainstays of holiday elf culture, Office Depot’s (NASDAQ:ODP) Elf Yourself® is back and better than ever with new augmented reality (AR) features¹ that will allow users to create holiday greetings with an even greater level of creativity and personalization.

“Over the past decade, the ‘Elf Yourself’ experience has brought over a billion elves into the world, bringing holiday cheer and excitement to all those who have ‘elfed’ themselves or been ‘elfed’ by someone else,” said Natalie Malaszenko, resident elf expert and vice president of digital and B2B marketing for Office Depot, Inc. “Our passion has always been rooted in finding new ways for people to unleash their inner elf, and this year we are able to kick this up to a whole new level due to our new AR capabilities.”

The AR features are easy to use – with a simple tap, you can have Santa’s little helpers rocking out on the screen of your phone as your friends and family dance alongside them. And this year you can turn your favorite frame into a custom holiday card, which can be easily ordered from any Office Depot or OfficeMax print center in store, online or through its mobile app. “You can really get creative – now that you can use any background you capture on your phone, the possibilities are endless,” said Malaszenko. “We can’t wait to see what #ElfYourself creations people will come up with this holiday season.”

Beyond the new AR features, you can expect to see all your favorite dances back this year joined by three fresh scenes. Mischievous elves are sneaking out of Santa’s workshop for some fresh air and sightseeing – shimmying under the Northern Lights in a magical winter wonderland. Back at Santa’s Workshop, elves are taking care of business, prepping for the big day with a little pep in their step.

For those gearing up for Hanukkah, Office Depot is teaming up with the Mensch on a Bench for another great Hanukkah dance. The Jewish a cappella group Six13 will be singing sweet tunes as Moshe the Mensch gets down with a street style dance-off.

“The Mensch on a Bench is thrilled to team up with Elf Yourself for the third year in a row to develop a fun new tradition for Jewish families,” said Neal Hoffman, creator of Mensch on a Bench. “Turning yourself into a mensch and dancing to Dreidel Dreidel Dreidel is guaranteed to bring smiles to everyone’s faces – just in time to celebrate Hanukkah!”

Since the inception of Elf Yourself® in 2006, 1.5 billion elves have been created and over 564 million sessions globally. The updated app is available to download today at elfyourself.com or through your mobile app store. To create videos with Elf Yourself®, users simply upload up to five photos from either their camera roll, Facebook or taken on the app, select a dance theme, and the app generates a custom Elf Yourself® video to share with friends and family via email and social media platforms, as well as embed into websites and blogs.

About Office Depot, Inc.

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

The company had 2016 annual sales of approximately $11 billion, employed approximately 38,000 associates, and served consumers and businesses in North America and abroad with approximately 1,400 retail stores, award-winning e-commerce sites and a dedicated business-to-business sales organization – with a global network of wholly owned operations, franchisees, licensees and alliance partners. The company operates under several banner brands including Office Depot®, OfficeMax®, BizBox, CompuCom®, Complete Office and Grand&Toy®. The company’s portfolio of exclusive product brands include TUL®, Foray®, Brenton Studio®, Ativa®, WorkPro®, Realspace® and Highmark®.

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

Office Depot, Foray, Ativa and Realspace are trademarks of The Office Club, Inc. OfficeMax, TUL, Brenton Studio, WorkPro and Highmark are trademarks of OMX, Inc. CompuCom is a trademark of CompuCom Systems, Inc. and Complete Office is a trademark of Complete Office Solutions, LLC. Grand&Toy is a trademark of Grand & Toy, LLC in Canada. ©2017 Office Depot, Inc. All rights reserved. Any other product or company names mentioned herein are the trademarks of their respective owners.

1 On AR enabled devices. Compatible with iOs 6S or higher and select Android devices

Source: Office Depot, Inc.

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Lowe’s: Richard D. Maltsbarger to succeed Rick D. Damron as chief operating officer

Lowe’s: Richard D. Maltsbarger to succeed Rick D. Damron as chief operating officer

 

MOORESVILLE, N.C., 2017-Nov-22 — /EPR Retail News/ — Lowe’s Companies, Inc. (NYSE: LOW) announced today (November 21, 2017) that Richard D. Maltsbarger, Lowe’s chief development officer and president, international, has been appointed chief operating officer, effective Feb. 3, 2018, and will continue to report to Robert A. Niblock, chairman, president and CEO. Maltsbarger succeeds Rick D. Damron who plans to retire after 36 years with the company. Damron has served as chief operating officer since 2012.

In his new role, Maltsbarger, 42, will be responsible for delivering seamless omni-channel experiences to execute Lowe’s brand promise and build lasting customer loyalty. He will oversee areas including store operations, supply chain, pro and services, while also working closely with Michael P. McDermott, chief customer officer, to further enhance our omni-channel customer experience. A strong business leader, Maltsbarger has led Lowe’s international operations since 2015 and has a deep background in developing and executing strategy based on customer insights.

Niblock said, “Richard is a proven leader with a keen understanding of our business and industry. He brings vast consumer knowledge from various roles within Lowe’s and has been instrumental in the development and implementation of our strategy. We are confident that in this new role, Richard will continue to enhance our capabilities and processes as we execute our plans and meet customers’ rapidly evolving expectations.”

Niblock added, “On behalf of the board and management team, I want to thank Rick for his innumerable contributions to Lowe’s over his distinguished career during the past three decades. Rick has worked across every aspect of our operations, and his ideas and initiatives have positively impacted Lowe’s employees and customers. We wish him all the best in his retirement.”

Damron stated, “I have a great deal of admiration and respect for the Lowe’s organization and management team and look forward to working with Richard to ensure a smooth transition. Lowe’s is well positioned for continued success, and I have the utmost confidence in our employees and the company’s long-term growth opportunities.”

Maltsbarger Background

Maltsbarger was named chief development officer in 2014 and president, international in 2015. In his current role, Maltsbarger is responsible for corporate strategy, business development and international operations. Maltsbarger joined Lowe’s in 2004 as director of customer analytics and held various senior leadership roles including business development executive, senior vice president of strategy, vice president of strategic planning and vice president of research. Maltsbarger earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in agricultural economics from the University of Missouri and an MBA from Washington University in St. Louis.

About Lowe’s

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

Customer Inquiries:
1-800-445-6937
CustCare@Lowes.com

Follow Us on Twitter
@LowesMedia

Source: Lowe’s Companies, Inc.

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IKEA invites consumers to its annual Swedish Julbord smorgasbord on Friday, December 15, 2017

Discounted Tickets Available for IKEA FAMILY* Members for $12.99 Per Person / $2.99 for Kids 12 and Under

CONSHOHOCKEN, Pa., 2017-Nov-21 — /EPR Retail News/ — As the holidays approach, IKEA invites consumers to celebrate the season during its annual Swedish Julbord smorgasbord on Friday, December 15, 2017 at participating stores nationwide**. A traditional Julbord is a highlight of Swedish cuisine, consisting of local and family specialties enjoyed with family and friends.

IKEA is inviting everyone to join the celebration with an all-you-can-eat buffet featuring traditional Swedish dishes. Tickets are available for only $16.99 per person / $4.99 for kids 12 and under, or at a discounted rate for IKEA FAMILY members ($12.99 per person / $2.99 for kids 12 and under).

“The Julbord buffet is at the center of the classic Scandinavian holiday celebration, uniting family and friends alike,” says Peter Ho, IKEA Food Range and Product Developer. “It is a much anticipated tradition in Sweden that we enjoy sharing with customers all over.”

The IKEA Julbord menu includes***:

    • Assortment of pickled herring
    • Gravad lax with mustard sauce
    • Hard boiled eggs
    • Swedish cucumber salad
    • Red beet salad
    • Swedish potato salad
    • Christmas ham
    • Swedish cheeses
    • Meatballs with lingonberries
    • Sautéed Red cabbage and apples
    • Mashed potatoes
    • Jansson’s temptations
    • Crispbread, thin bread, softbread
    • Assorted desserts
    • Glögg
    • Coffee, tea, fountain

beverages

Seating is limited, so those who are interested are encouraged to purchase tickets early at their local IKEA store. To locate and contact the nearest IKEA store for more details, including local seating times, visit the “Store Locator” page on IKEA-USA.com.

Those not able to make it to the event can still partake in the Swedish tradition at home. Visit the Swedish Food Market in IKEA U.S. stores to purchase select items from the Julbord menu, including SJÖRAPPORT salmon, or to explore, find and try ingredients for other Swedish recipes, such as Mustard Glazed Meatballs with Kale Chips and Lingonberry Chutney.

MUSTARD GLAZED MEATBALLS WITH KALE CHIPS AND LINGONBERRY CHUTNEY
Ingredients & Supplies

  • 5-6 large green kale leaves, whole
  • ½ Tbsp extra virgin olive oil or melted coconut oil
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp fine grain sea salt
  • 20 pcs of KOTTBULLAR meatballs
  • 2 Tbsp canola oil
  • Lingonberry chutney
  • 2 red onions
  • 3 Tbsp + 1 tsp salted butter
  • 1 jar of SYLT LINGON lingonberry preserves
  • ½ cup honey
  • ½ cup coarse mustard
  • 2 Tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 5 tsp white or sherry vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  • Preheat oven to 300°F.
  • Remove the stems and tear the kale leaves into 20 pieces, about 2-2.5″ big p/pc. Wash and thoroughly dry the leaves, preferably in a spinner. Gently massage the kale with virgin olive or coconut oil in a large bowl. All leaves should be lightly covered in oil (not soaked). Sprinkle with onion powder and salt and massage some more.
  • Spread a layer of kale onto a prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes then rotate the pan. Bake for another 12-15 minutes until it feels firm and crisp. Let the kale rest for a few minutes to really crisp up. Repeat for the rest of the kale.
  • For the lingonberry chutney, peel and cut the red onions into small pieces and fry them in a pot with butter over medium heat. When they are nicely caramelized, add the lingonberry preserves and let it come up to the boil. Keep warm.
  • Put all the ingredients for the glaze into a small pan. Stir together over medium heat and let it cook for about 10 minutes until it thickens. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Turn oven to 350°F.
  • Put meatballs onto a prepared baking sheet and toss with oil. When golden, pour over the glaze and mix well. Turn oven to 475°F and then roast in the oven for about 5-6 minutes, until the glaze has caramelized. Stir 1-2 times while in the oven.
  • Place the kale chips on a large tray or serving dish. Put one meatball on every chip. Serve together with the lingonberry chutney and a bunch of small forks or toothpicks.

* IKEA FAMILY is a benefits program that offers membership perks including special product discounts, sneak previews, free coffee and tea in the IKEA Restaurant, and more. Consumers can sign up for the free program online or in-store.
** IKEA Carson and IKEA Grand Prairie will not host a Julbord Party in 2017.
*** Menu is subject to change due to product availability.

ABOUT IKEA
Since its 1943 founding in Sweden, IKEA has offered home furnishings of good design and function at low prices so the majority of people can afford them. There are currently more than 390 IKEA stores in 48 countries, including 46 in the U.S. IKEA incorporates sustainability into day-to-day business and supports initiatives that benefit children and the environment. For more information see IKEA-USA.com, @IKEAUSANews, @IKEAUSA or IKEAUSA on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram and Pinterest.

Media Contact:
Christine Conti
Christine.Conti@ketchum.com

Source: IKEA

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Lowe’s Canada stores wins three awards at the Hardlines Outstanding Retailer Awards

  • Best Large Surface Retailer – Lowe’s Barrie (ON)
  • Best Building Supply/Home Centre (< 15,000 s.f.) – Ace Matériaux Armand Dumaresq (QC)
  • Contractor Specialist – RONA Penticton (BC)

Boucherville, Québec, 2017-Nov-17 — /EPR Retail News/ — Lowe’s Canada is proud to celebrate the achievement of three of its stores at the Hardlines Outstanding Retailer Awards which took place on Tuesday, November 14 in Niagara Falls. Three of Lowe’s Canada’s banners, namely Lowe’s, Ace and RONA, have taken home awards in the following categories: Best Large Surface Retailer – Lowe’s Barrie (ON); Best Building Supply/Home Centre (< 15,000 s.f.) – Ace Matériaux Armand Dumaresq (QC) and Contractor Specialist – RONA Penticton (BC).

“Thanks to its multi-banner, multi-format network of stores, Lowe’s Canada is ideally positioned to meet the needs of today’s various consumers segments, from DIYers to pros and contractors, no matter their type of home improvement project, and no matter where they live,” mentioned Sylvain Prud’homme, President and CEO of Lowe’s Canada. “These awards attest once again of the diversity of our vast network and of the strength of our business model. I wish to extend our most sincere congratulations to the awardees and their entire teams who work hard, day after day, to offer the best shopping experience to our customers.”

Best Large Surface Retailer – Lowe’s Barrie (ON)
The Lowe’s in Barrie opened its doors nine years ago with the purpose that sets the Lowe’s banner apart: “To help people love where they live.” With a team of 155 employees, customer focus has translated into an increase in customer count exceeding 8% in 2017 (year to date), and sales growth trending consistently above 10% for the last four years. The team’s engagement in showing the value it offers, from merchandise presentation standards to process and procedure, is key in explaining this success. If marketing brings customers in, the in-store experience (service, in stock, cleanliness, knowledge, etc.) turns them into loyal customers. The Lowe’s Barrie store is also very active in the community. Recent initiatives include collaborations with the Women’s Shelter in Barrie and Habitat for Humanity in Huronia, food drives for the Barrie Food Bank, and various toy drives.

Best Building Supply/Home Centre (< 15,000 s.f.) – Ace Matériaux Armand Dumaresq (QC)
Guy Samson purchased Ace Matériaux Armand Dumaresq in Rivière-au-Renard in July 2014. Previously family-owned, the business started up as a saw mill and eventually included a hardware store that was founded about 25 years ago. When he bought the company in 2014, Mr. Samson was facing several challenges: saturated market shares, a competitive environment that included three other hardware stores in his territory, decreasing demographic rate and high unemployment rate. To gain market shares, he chose to rely on a very strong customer service approach. Many SKUs were added to the inventory, the warehouse was expanded by 4,500 sq. ft. and the store by 1,200 sq. ft. This new approach was a huge success: the store increased it sales by more than 400% in just 27 months of operation.

Contractor Specialist – RONA Penticton (BC)
In 2005, the Mielke family created a joint venture with RONA to open RONA Penticton in the heart of the Okanagan Valley. The store customer base is a 50-50 retail-contractor split. In 2016, the store expanded its EWP yard and garden centre, moved the door and countertop shop into a new facility, expanded the Penticton Contractor Desk and opened a new satellite Contractor First location in Osoyoos. This 2,000 sq. ft satellite store with two acres and a staff of 11 allowed RONA Penticton to expand in the South Okanagan and have the Penticton store focus on sales closer to home. As a result, both locations are thriving and in ratio to the size of its operation, Osoyoos is one of the highest performer nationwide within RONA.

About the Outstanding Retailer Awards
Launched in 1992, the Outstanding Retailer Awards are the industry’s only national awards program dedicated to celebrating the achievements of hardware and building supply dealers in Canada. In its 25-year history, the program has honoured more than 150 retailers. The 2017 awards were presented at a special ORA Gala Dinner organized as part of the Hardlines Annual Conference, held November 14, at the Sheraton on the Falls in Niagara Falls.

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

For more information, please contact:

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

Source: Lowe’s Companies, Inc.

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Macy’s offers preview of more than 100 Black Friday specials beginning on Thursday, Nov. 16

Macy’s offers preview of more than 100 Black Friday specials beginning on Thursday, Nov. 16

 

  • Macy’s kicks off Black Friday savings with a preview of more than 100 deals starting Thursday, November 16
  • Take advantage of more than 500 Black Friday specials beginning at 5 p.m. in most stores and all day at macys.com on Thanksgiving, November 23
  • Macy’s offers customers more time to shop with Cyber Week savings in-store and online from Sunday, November 26through Wednesday, November 29

NEW YORK, 2017-Nov-15 — /EPR Retail News/ — The holidays are a time when Macy’s truly shines. As the season gets underway, Macy’s is excited to bring customers the special experiences they look forward to all year – holiday traditions at Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade®, Black Friday and Cyber Week shopping, Christmas tree lightings across the country, and the beloved Believe campaign where millions of children send their letters to Santa.

So whether it’s stocking up on gifts for family and loved ones for the holidays or finding something special for yourself, Macy’s is the place to shop Black Friday and Cyber Week with phenomenal deals on the best items and brands in home, fashion, beauty and tech. Shoppers can find the perfect gift and stay on budget with a wide assortment of specials, and also take home a selection of free gifts in-store after mail-in rebates. Beginning on Thursday, Nov. 16, Macy’s will preview more than 100 Black Friday specials online and also give customers even more time to shop during Cyber Week with week-long deals in-store and online.

“Our customers enjoy coming to Macy’s to find the perfect gift for loved ones and themselves, and as the leader in all things holiday, we are making shopping even easier and more affordable this year,” said John Harper, Macy’s chief stores officer. “We’re prepped and ready to ensure the Black Friday holiday tradition will be extra special this year with tremendous deals in-store and online on Black Friday, as well as during Cyber Week.”

Macy’s offers customers the convenience they need to shop the way they live, in stores, through the app and on macys.com. Most store hours for Black Friday are: Thanksgiving Day, 5 p.m. through 2 a.m. Friday, Nov. 24; Friday, Nov. 24 from 6 a.m. through 1 p.m.; and Saturday, Nov. 25 from 8 a.m. through 1 p.m., and online all day at macys.com Thursday through Saturday. The following are a sampling of the amazing doorbusters available on Black Friday, while supplies last:

For Him, Her and Home

  • $29.99 diamond earrings with any purchase of $50 or more
  • 75 percent off select sport coats and overcoats
  • 50 percent off select holiday tops and sweaters
  • $19.99 jeans
  • 60 percent off select infants’ and kids’ styles
  • 40 percent off select boots and shoes
  • $10 beauty products from brands like Urban Decay, Origins, Clinique, and more
  • 50 percent off Crux kitchen electrics
  • 65 percent off select holiday ornaments and dinnerware
  • $29.99 sheet sets
  • 60 percent to 75 percent off Samsonite

Tech and Toys

  • $70 off Apple Watch Series 1
  • $69.99 Brookstone Cat Headphones
  • $29.99 Amazon Echo Dot
  • $17.99 Dream Vision Virtual Reality
  • $99.99 Fitbit Charge 2
  • $89.99 JBL 3 Charge Bluetooth Waterproof Speaker
  • 60 percent Off Protocol Drones
  • 60 percent off Polaroid Bluetooth Headphones
  • 50 percent off FAO Schwarz
  • $15.99 Karaoke Microphone
  • 50 percent off remote control cars
  • $4.99 gifts for kids and babies from brands like Melissa & Doug, Mattel, and more

FREE (after Mail-in Rebate*)

  • Select tote bags FREE after mail-in rebate
  • Gold toe slippers for men FREE after mail-in rebate
  • Select men’s thermal tops FREE after mail-in rebate
  • Select glassware sets FREE after mail-in rebate
  • Select men’s joggers FREE after mail-in rebate
  • Disney Olaf plush FREE after mail-in rebate
  • Select graphic sweatshirts FREE after mail-in rebate
  • Select kitchen electrics FREE after mail-in rebate
  • BCBG MaxAzria Eau de Parfum Spray FREE after mail-in rebate
  • Designer pillow FREE after mail-in rebate

Cyber Week kicks off Sunday, Nov. 26 with great savings through Wednesday, Nov. 29. Plus, with free shipping online with a $25 purchase on Nov. 26 and Nov. 27, shoppers will be excited to take advantage of the awesome savings. Some highlights include:

  • 65 percent off select family pajamas
  • 60 percent off select wool-blend coats
  • 40 percent to 60 percent off select cold-weather accessories
  • Buy 1, Get 1 Free select shoes and boots
  • FREE 4-piece Prada Candy gift set with any large spray purchase from the Prada Candy fragrance collection
  • FREE 3-piece Marc Jacobs Daisy gift set with any large spray purchase from the Marc Jacobs Daisy fragrance collection
  • $25 Michael Kors For Men Eau de Toilette Spray
  • 65 percent off select kids’ sleepwear
  • 70 percent off select designer suits and suit separate sets
  • 50 percent to 70 percent off select men’s footwear
  • 60 percent to 70 percent off all select mattress pads, feather beds, and fiber beds
  • Buy 1, Get 1 Free Fiesta dinnerware

Additional Ways to Save Time and Money

On top of these extraordinary specials, customers can save even more with the new Macy’s Star Rewards program. Gold and Platinum Macy’s cardholders get free shipping and all Star Rewards members save 25 percent on select merchandise with star passes any day they choose.

Customers can view a full list of specials online at macys.com/blackfriday and add favorites to their list, which is available via desktop, mobile device and tablet. They can also create custom tags to organize recipients, sign up for reminders and shop straight from their list all Thanksgiving Day on macys.com.

Macy’s best-in-class mobile app is the perfect shopping sidekick for Black Friday. Download before the big day to check store directories and hours, scan bar codes in store and access instant price check, availability or even order the item on the spot and have it shipped home. Plus, take a photo through the app of a style you’re looking for, and find it or something similar in a flash!

Visit macys.com/stores for local information, as Black Friday hours may vary by store. Most Macy’s stores will open at 5 p.m. on Thanksgiving evening.

*In store only, one per customer. Allow 6-8 weeks for rebate delivery. In Connecticut, Rhode Island, Puerto Rico, and in Dade and Broward Counties, FL, rebate is given at register. Regular sales tax will apply. Limited quantities.

About Macy’s

Macy’s, the largest retail brand of Macy’s, Inc. (NYSE:M) delivers fashion and affordable luxury to customers at approximately 670 locations in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and Guam, as well as to customers in the U.S. and more than 100 international destinations through its leading online store at macys.com. Via its stores, e-commerce site, mobile and social platforms, Macy’s offers distinctive assortments including the most desired family of exclusive and fashion brands for him, her and home. Macy’s is known for such epic events as Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, as well as spectacular fashion shows, culinary events, flower shows and celebrity appearances. Macy’s flagship stores – including Herald Square in New York City, Union Square in San Francisco, State Street in Chicago, and Dadeland in Miami and South Coast Plaza in southern California – are known internationally and are leading destinations for visitors. Building on a more than 150-year tradition, and with the collective support of customers and employees, Macy’s helps strengthen communities by supporting local and national charities giving more than $54 million each year, plus 180,000 hours of volunteer service, to help make a difference in the lives of our customers.

For Macy’s media materials, including images and contacts, please visit our online pressroom at macys.com/pressroom.

Contact:
Julie Strider
646-429-5213
julie.striderfukami@macys.com

Macy’s
Billy Dumé
646-429-7449
billy.dume@macys.com

Source: Macy’s, Inc.

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Amazon offers a sneak peek of its plans for Black Friday deals

  • Black Friday will feature more than 30 Deals of the Day and thousands of Lightning Deals across 30 categories
  • Save up to 35% on Melissa & Doug toys and furniture; Premium brand 40-inch smart TV only $279.99; Echo Dot only $29.99 – the lowest price ever!
  • Shop deals from small businesses and entrepreneurs, including startups in the Amazon Launchpad and Amazon Exclusives programs, on everything from toys and electronics to sporting equipment and clothes

SEATTLE, 2017-Nov-15 — /EPR Retail News/ — Amazon is offering a sneak peek of its plans for Black Friday and, with deals across 30 categories, there is something for everyone this holiday. Now through Black Friday, customers will find deals on items including toys, electronics, fashion, beauty, kitchen, sporting goods, and more, in addition to Amazon Devices and products from small businesses and entrepreneurs, at amazon.com/blackfriday. Customers can expect to find incredible deals across a wide selection of top holiday products throughout the duration of the “Turkey 5” – those five popular shopping days starting at midnight PT on Thanksgiving and continuing through Cyber Monday. Black Friday will feature more than 30 Deals of the Day and thousands of Lightning Deals. Customers will find new deals every day, all season long.

Discover all of the great Amazon Black Friday deals at amazon.com/blackfriday or shop anytime, anywhere with the Amazon App (to download, visit amazon.com/mobileapps from your mobile browser). Customers shopping with the Amazon App can also set Watch a Deal alerts to ensure they never miss out on a hot holiday product, and even use AR view, a new augmented reality feature, to view thousands of items in their space before they buy. Voice Shoppers can shop select Black Friday deals, starting as early as 5pm PT, Wednesday, Nov. 22 – just ask Alexa.

All Amazon customers can choose from more than one hundred million items that are eligible for free shipping this holiday and all year long. This includes eligible orders of $25 or more shipped by Amazon, as well as free shipping offers from small business and entrepreneurs selling on Amazon.

The deals included below will be available on various dates and times between Nov. 17 and Nov. 24 (Black Friday), while supplies last, at amazon.com/blackfriday or on the Amazon App.

Amazon Devices

  • Save $20 on Echo Dot, only $29.99 – the lowest price ever for Echo Dot
  • Save $20 on All-New Echo, only $79.99
  • Save $30 on Echo Plus, only $119.99
  • Save $50 on Amazon Tap, only $79.99
  • Add a smart plug to any Echo purchase for only $5 ($20 off)
  • Save $20 on Amazon Cloud Cam, only $99.99
  • Save $30 on Fire 7 Kids Edition, only $69.99 – and save an additional $10 when you buy two Fire 7 Kids Edition tablets, only $129.98
  • Save $40 on Fire HD 8 Kids Edition, only $89.99 – and save an additional $10 when you buy two Fire HD 8 Kids Edition, only $169.98
  • Save $50 on Fire HD 10, only $99.99 – the lowest price ever for the Fire HD 10
  • Save $30 on Fire HD 8, only $49.99
  • Save $30 on Kindle Paperwhite, only $89.99
  • Save $30 on Kindle, only $49.99
  • Save $30 on Kindle for Kids Bundle, only $69.99
  • Save $15 on Fire TV Stick with Alexa Voice Remote, only $24.99

Electronics

  • Premium brand 40-inch smart TV, only $279.99
  • Sony 75-inch 4K Ultra HD smart LED TV (2017 Model), only $1,999.99
  • Sony 70-inch 4K Ultra HD smart LED TV (2017 Model), only $1,199.99
  • Samsung UN65MU8000 65-inch 4K Ultra HD smart TV (2017 Model), only $1,297.99
  • Sony 65-inch 4K Ultra HD smart LED TV (2017 Model), only $1,499.99
  • Samsung UN55MU8000 55-inch 4K Ultra HD smart TV (2017 Model), only $897.99
  • Sony 55-inch 4K Ultra HD smart LED TV (2017 Model), only $999.99
  • 32-inch 720p TV, only $69.99
  • 49-inch 4k TV, only $159.99
  • Save up to 30% on select TP-Link smart home and networking products
  • Save up to 25% on select Seagate hard drives
  • Save up to $150 on Acer Helios 300 Gaming Laptop
  • Save up to $120 on Cyberpowerpc Gaming Desktop
  • Save 30% on Corsair K70 Gaming Keyboard
  • Save up to 35% on select SanDisk memory products
  • Save up to 40% on PC gaming laptops, desktops, components and more
  • Save up to 25% on select 3D printers

Toys

  • Save up to 35% on Melissa & Doug toys and furniture
  • Save up to 40% on K’NEX Thrill Rides-Kraken’s Revenge Roller Coaster
  • Save up to 30% on select Crayola arts and crafts
  • Save up to 30% on select Paw Patrol toys
  • Save up to 50% on select Zoomer toys

Home Furnishings

  • Save up to 35% on select Thanksgiving and holiday décor
  • Save up to 40% on select mattresses, furniture and area rugs
  • Save up to 35% on select Rubbermaid products
  • Save up to 40% on select Thermos products

Smart Home

  • Save up to $40 on Schlage Smart Lock – Works with Amazon Alexa
  • Save $50 on Bluetooth-enabled Opal Nugget Ice Maker
  • Save $100 on SmartThings Home Monitoring Kit

Video Games

  • Save up to $100 on select Playstation virtual reality bundles
  • Save up to 50% on Just Dance 2018 Gold Box

Music, TV, Movies & Books

  • For the first time ever, non-Prime members as well as Prime members who haven’t yet tried Amazon Music Unlimited can get three months of the full catalog on-demand service with access to tens of millions of songs, for just $0.99 starting today
  • Save 40% on new release movies and TV seasons, as well as catalog best sellers available to rent or purchase and instantly stream on Amazon Video
  • Save up to 80% on select Kindle best-selling books

Pets

  • Save 35% on Soft WellBites Dog Treats
  • Save 15% on Fluval 2.6-Gallon Aquarium Kit

Sports & Outdoors

  • Save up to 60% on New Balance shoes and apparel
  • Save up to 30% on Under Armour TB12 Recovery Sleepwear
  • Save 20% on select Tumbl Trak products
  • Save on Bushnell Binoculars and Camelbak Hydration
  • Save up to 35% on select camo apparel
  • Save 20% on select Barska products
  • Save up to 25% on Nikon Coolshot 80 Rangefinder
  • Save 20% on Atomic Foosball Table
  • Save 25% on select X-Rocker Gaming Chairs
  • Save up to 35% on select Killerspin Table Tennis Rackets
  • Save 20% on select Paragon popcorn machines

Small Businesses and Entrepreneurs: Small businesses and entrepreneurs selling on Amazon come from every state in the U.S., and more than 130 countries around the world. Customers can shop deals from small businesses and entrepreneurs, including startups in the Amazon Launch pad and Amazon Exclusives programs, on everything from toys and electronics to sporting equipment and clothing:

  • Save 30% on Segway Minipro 2018 Edition
  • Save 20% on Star Wars Droid Inventor Kit
  • Save $30 on Anki Cozmo
  • Save 80% on Queen Rose Full Pregnancy Body Pillow
  • Save 20% on CoffeeGator Pour Over Coffee Maker
  • Save 60% on Silpada ‘Santa Fe’ Sterling Silver, Brass and Turquoise Bracelet

Voice Shop to Get Early Access to Deals: Customers who voice shop with Alexa will get an exclusive shopping window several hours earlier than the general public with access to some of the best deals starting at 5pm PT, Wednesday, Nov. 22. Available on the Amazon Echo, Echo Plus, Echo Dot and Amazon Tap, as well as screened devices such as the all-new Amazon Fire TV, all-new Fire HD 10 Tablet, Echo Show and soon to be released Echo Spot, it’s as simple as asking Alexa. Customers can voice shop with Alexa for tens of millions of Prime-eligible items every day of the year. Changed your mind? No problem, any physical product purchased with your voice is eligible for free returns. Customers must be Prime members with default payment and shipping information. To learn more, visit amazon.com/voiceshopping.

Amazon Prints: Beginning Nov. 19 for a limited time, holiday cards are 50% off. Create high-quality, custom cards and share holiday messages with friends and loved ones. Cards are printed on ultra-thick, matte cardstock and include envelopes with free return address printing plus free delivery with Prime. Go to amazon.com/prints to learn more.

Amazon Restaurants: Prime members making their first Amazon Restaurants order will get $10 off their order plus FREE delivery when they make a qualified purchase on Amazon.com or Prime Now between Nov. 24 and Nov. 27. Go to amazon.com/restaurants to learn more.

Amazon Books: Customers can also discover great deals on books, devices, toys and games in store at Amazon Books in Seattle, New York City (on 34th St and at Columbus Circle), Los Angeles, Chicago, Boston (Dedham and Lynnfield), San Diego, San Jose, Portland, Bellevue(Wash.) and Paramus (N.J.). Whether customers want to discover a new book for the holidays, test-drive a device, or purchase Amazon Gift Cards, Amazon Books offers gifts for everyone.

Amazon.com in Spanish: Customers can shop, browse and search for deals across 30 categories in Spanish. Customers can update their language settings in their Amazon App, as well as visit Amazon.com and click the ‘globe’ button – located in the navigation bar at the top of their Amazon home screen – to set and begin shopping in their preferred language. Preferred language settings will be saved for future site visits under ‘Your account’ settings.

Fast Shipping, Deals and More with Prime: Prime is designed to make your life better every day including the convenience of fast, free shipping and great entertainment. Prime members can shop thousands of Lightning Deals with 30-minute early access and, with the Amazon Prime credit card, members will earn even bigger rewards this holiday season. Members can also enjoy Free Two-Day Shipping with AmazonPrime, as well as Prime FREE One-Day Shipping and Prime FREE Same-Day Delivery on more than one million items in orders of $35 or more available to members in over 5,000 cities and towns. And, with Prime Now, Prime Members in more than 30 U.S. cities can benefit from one-and-two hour delivery. In addition, Prime members in 37 cities and surrounding areas across the U.S. now have access to Amazon Key, the new service that radically improves the convenience of receiving deliveries. Amazon Key allows Prime members to have eligible packages securely delivered inside their homes without having to be there.

About Amazon

Amazon is guided by four principles: customer obsession rather than competitor focus, passion for invention, commitment to operational excellence, and long-term thinking. Customer reviews, 1-Click shopping, personalized recommendations, Prime, Fulfillment by Amazon, AWS, Kindle Direct Publishing, Kindle, Fire tablets, Fire TV, Amazon Echo, and Alexa are some of the products and services pioneered by Amazon. For more information, visit www.amazon.com/about and follow @AmazonNews.

Media Hotline:

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

Source: Amazon.com, Inc.

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The Home Depot Q3 2017 results: sales of $25.0 billion, an 8.1 percent increase from same period last year

ATLANTA, 2017-Nov-15 — /EPR Retail News/ — The Home Depot®, the world’s largest home improvement retailer, today (Nov 14, 2017) reported sales of $25.0 billion for the third quarter of fiscal 2017, an 8.1 percent increase from the third quarter of fiscal 2016. Comparable store sales for the third quarter of fiscal 2017 were positive 7.9 percent, and comp sales for U.S. stores were positive 7.7 percent.

Net earnings for the third quarter of fiscal 2017 were $2.2 billion, or $1.84 per diluted share, compared with net earnings of $2.0 billion, or $1.60 per diluted share, in the same period of fiscal 2016. For the third quarter of fiscal 2017, diluted earnings per share increased 15.0 percent from the same period in the prior year.

“Though this quarter was marked by an unprecedented number of natural disasters, including multiple hurricanes, wildfires in the West, and earthquakes in Mexico, the underlying health of our core business remains solid,” said Craig Menear, chairman, CEO and president. “I am proud of our team and suppliers for their extraordinary efforts to support those in the path of the various natural disasters throughout the quarter. Our support of the impacted communities continues.”

Impact of Hurricanes in the Fiscal Third Quarter

The Company estimates that hurricane-related sales positively impacted comparable store sales growth by approximately $282 million in the fiscal third quarter. The gross margin on these hurricane-related sales was considerably less than the Company average. In the fiscal third quarter, the Company also incurred approximately $104 million of hurricane-related expense. As a result of the hurricanes, the Company’s operating profit was negatively impacted by approximately $51 million in the fiscal third quarter.

Updated Fiscal 2017 Guidance

Based on its year-to-date performance, underlying strength of the core business, and projected hurricane recovery sales, the Company lifted its fiscal 2017 sales growth guidance and now expects sales will be up approximately 6.3 percent and comp sales will be up approximately 6.5 percent. The Company also raised its diluted earnings-per-share growth guidance for the year and now expects diluted earnings-per-share growth of approximately 14.0 percent from fiscal 2016 to $7.36. The Company’s diluted earnings-per-share growth guidance includes the impact of $8 billion of share repurchases for fiscal 2017.

The Home Depot will conduct a conference call today at 9 a.m. ET to discuss information included in this news release and related matters. The conference call will be available in its entirety through a webcast and replay at ir.homedepot.com/events-and-presentations.

At the end of the third quarter, the Company operated a total of 2,283 retail stores in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, 10 Canadian provinces and Mexico. The Company employs more than 400,000 associates. The Home Depot’s stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: HD) and is included in the Dow Jones industrial average and Standard & Poor’s 500 index.

Certain statements contained herein constitute “forward-looking statements” as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements may relate to, among other things, the demand for our products and services; net sales growth; comparable store sales; effects of competition; state of the economy; state of the residential construction, housing and home improvement markets; state of the credit markets, including mortgages, home equity loans and consumer credit; demand for credit offerings; inventory and in-stock positions; implementation of store, interconnected retail, supply chain and technology initiatives; management of relationships with our suppliers and vendors; the impact and expected outcome of investigations, inquiries, claims and litigation, including those related to the 2014 data breach; issues related to the payment methods we accept; continuation of share repurchase programs; net earnings performance; earnings per share; dividend targets; capital allocation and expenditures; liquidity; return on invested capital; expense leverage; stock-based compensation expense; commodity price inflation and deflation; the ability to issue debt on terms and at rates acceptable to us; the effect of accounting charges; the effect of adopting certain accounting standards; store openings and closures; guidance for fiscal 2017 and beyond; financial outlook; and the integration of acquired companies into our organization and the ability to recognize the anticipated synergies and benefits of those acquisitions. Forward-looking statements are based on currently available information and our current assumptions, expectations and projections about future events. You should not rely on our forward-looking statements. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to future events, risks and uncertainties – many of which are beyond our control or are currently unknown to us – as well as potentially inaccurate assumptions that could cause actual results to differ materially from our expectations and projections. These risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to those described in Item 1A, “Risk Factors,” and elsewhere in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for our fiscal year ended January 29, 2017 and in our subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q.

Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and we do not undertake to update these statements other than as required by law. You are advised, however, to review any further disclosures we make on related subjects in our periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

SOURCE: The Home Depot

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Lowe’s Companies to host Q3 2017 earnings conference call webcast on Tuesday, November 21, 2017

MOORESVILLE, N.C., 2017-Nov-15 — /EPR Retail News/ — In conjunction with the Lowe’s Companies, Inc. (NYSE: LOW) third quarter 2017 earnings press release, you are invited to listen to its conference call to be broadcast live over the internet on Tuesday, November 21, 2017 at 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time with: Robert A. Niblock, chairman, president and chief executive officer; Rick D. Damron, 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: Third Quarter 2017 Earnings Conference Call Webcast

When: 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time on Tuesday, November 21, 2017

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

Click on Webcasts and then on Lowe’s Third 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 November 21, 2017 through February 27, 2018 by visiting http://www.Lowes.com/investor and clicking on Webcasts and then on Lowe’s Third 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

Customer Inquiries:
1-800-445-6937CustCare@Lowes.com

Follow Us on Twitter
@LowesMedia

SOURCE: Lowe’s Companies, Inc.

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The Michaels Companies to host Q3 results conference call on Thursday, November 30, 2017

IRVING, Texas, 2017-Nov-15 — /EPR Retail News/ — The Michaels Companies, Inc. (NASDAQ: MIK) today (2017-11-13) announced that the Company plans to report third quarter results on Thursday, November 30, 2017, before the opening of U.S. financial markets. In connection with the announcement, the Company will host a conference call at 8:00 a.m. CT on Thursday, November 30, 2017, to discuss its financial and operational results.

Investors who would like to join the conference call are encouraged to pre-register for the conference call using the following link: http://dpregister.com/10113759. Callers who pre-register will be given a phone number and a unique PIN to gain immediate access to the call and bypass the live operator. Participants may pre-register at any time, including up to and after the call start time.

Investors without internet access or who are unable to pre-register can join the call by dialing (844) 340-4762 or (412) 717-9617.

The conference call will also be webcast at http://investors.michaels.com/events.cfm. To listen to the live call, please go to the website at least 15 minutes before the call is scheduled to begin to register and download any necessary audio software. The webcast will be accessible for 30 days after the call. Additionally, a telephone replay will be available until December 14, 2017, by dialing (877) 344-7529 or (412) 317-0088, access code 10113759.

About The Michaels Companies, Inc.:

A Fortune 500® Company, The Michaels Companies, Inc. is North America’s largest specialty provider of arts, crafts, framing, floral, wall décor, and seasonal merchandise for the hobbyist and do-it-yourself home decorator.

As of July 29, 2017, the Company owned and operated 1,366 stores in 49 states and Canada under the brands Michaels, Aaron Brothers, and Pat Catan’s. The Michaels Companies, Inc., also owns Artistree, a manufacturer of high quality custom and specialty framing merchandise, and Darice, a premier wholesale distributor in the craft, gift and decor industry. The Michaels Companies, Inc. produces a number of private brands including Recollections®, Studio Decor®, Bead Landing®, Creatology®, Ashland®, Celebrate It®, ArtMinds®, Artist’s Loft®, Craft Smart®, Loops & Threads®, Make Market®, Foamies®, LockerLookz®, Imagin8®, and Sticky Sticks®. Learn more about Michaels at www.michaels.com.

Investor Contact:
The Michaels Companies, Inc.
Kiley F. Rawlins, CFA
972-409-7404
Kiley.Rawlins@michaels.com

ICR, Inc.
Farah Soi, CFA
203-682-8200
Farah.Soi@icrinc.com

Caitlin Morahan
203-682-8200
Caitlin.Morahan@icrinc.com

Financial Media Contact:
ICR, Inc.
Jessica Liddell / Julia Young
203-682-8200
Michaels@icrinc.com

Source: The Michaels Companies, Inc.

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Sears celebrates the opening of its new appliances and mattresses store in Honolulu

Sears celebrates the opening of its new appliances and mattresses store in Honolulu

 

Retailer Unveils Innovative Free-Standing Store at Ala Moana Center

HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill., 2017-Nov-14 — /EPR Retail News/ — Sears announced the grand opening of a new store dedicated to appliances and mattresses today (Nov 9, 2017). Located in Honolulu, the unique retail concept focuses on two of Sears’s strongest categories, appliances and mattresses, while continuing to offer the expertise and capability of its leading integrated services. The new store builds on the success of the first Sears Appliances & Mattresses store located in Pharr, Texas, which has been open since June of this year, as well as the Sears Appliances store, which opened in Ft. Collins, Colo. in 2016.

“We’re delighted by the positive feedback we’ve received from our members around the Ft. Collins, Colo. and Pharr, Texas stores,” said Leena Munjal, senior vice president, Customer Experience and Integrated Retail, Sears Holdings. “At our new Honolulu Sears Appliances & Mattresses store, the community will find an innovative, interactive shopping experience that showcases our leading array of appliances and mattresses, with the support of expert associates. This new store helps our members easily find the best product for them to live life now and enjoy these products in their homes for years to come.”Located in the Mauka wing of Ala Moana Center at 1450 Ala Moana Blvd in Honolulu, the 16,200-sq. ft. Sears Appliances & Mattresses store showcases the top major appliance brands, including Kenmore®, in a bright, spacious setting with interactive displays, allowing members to view home appliances in kitchen vignettes and experience top mattress brands. Members can visualize how new appliances would look in a full-scale kitchen with the “Discover More” 100-inch interactive digital display. Using a tablet, shoppers can select common kitchen layouts and appliances and further customize the experience by choosing colors and finishes. They also can use the “Discover More” digital display to shop for other products on sears.com.The Honolulu store also exhibits an assortment of vacuums, floor care and home environment products, as well as countertop microwaves. Members can also try out mattresses from top brands including Tempur-Pedic®, Beautyrest, Sealy and Stearns & Foster, and shop for select pillows and bedding.

The new location will feature the full suite of integrated retail services for which Sears is known, including:

  • Meet with An Expert: The free service helps members shop for home appliances and mattresses by letting them schedule appointments with in-store experts at a time convenient for them.
  • Buy Online and Ship to the Store, In-Vehicle Pickup: Members can purchase all products available on Sears.com or Kmart.com, ship to the store for free, then pick up their items at the store when they arrive, where they will be ready in five minutes, guaranteed. Members can even choose to have their item brought out to them by using Sears’ innovative In-Vehicle Pickup service.
  • Anyone, Anywhere Pickup: Members can order any item on Sears.com or Kmart.com and send a friend or family member to pick up the purchase—particularly useful for parents purchasing items for their kids who may be away at college.

A grand opening will take place Saturday, Nov. 11 at 9 a.m. with grand opening festivities continuing throughout the day. They include:

  • Store Blessing and Untying of Maile
  • 10 percent off storewide*
  • Goody bags for first 100 customers
  • Appetizer plates from Aloha Plate food truck for first 100 customers, starting at noon
  • Entertainment by Hawaiian musicians Sean Na’auao and Nathan Aweau
  • Gift card store raffles throughout the day, up to $250

The new Sears Appliances & Mattresses store will be open Sunday, 10 a.m.– 7 p.m. and Monday through Saturday, 9:30 a.m.– 9 p.m. In most cases, Sears delivers appliances and mattresses Monday through Saturday.

Sears has been proudly serving Hawaii for over 70 years, with its first Hawaii store opening on Oct. 11, 1939. The Sears Appliances & Mattresses store’s associates and technicians, who provide services such as installation, maintenance and repair, are trained and employed by Sears. Honolulu members will also gain peace of mind knowing they can protect their purchases with one of the industry’s most comprehensive warranty programs, which has made Sears No. 1 in protection agreements.

*Some exclusions apply

About Sears, Roebuck and Co.
Sears, Roebuck and Co., a wholly owned subsidiary of Sears Holdings Corporation (NASDAQ: SHLD), is a leading integrated retailer providing merchandise and related services and is part of Shop Your Way, a social shopping experience where members have the ability to earn points and receive benefits across a wide variety of physical and digital formats through shopyourway.com. Sears, Roebuck offers its wide range of home merchandise, apparel and automotive products and services through Sears-branded and affiliated full-line and specialty retail stores. Sears, Roebuck also offers a variety of merchandise and services through sears.com and specialty catalogs. Sears, Roebuck offers consumers leading brands including Kenmore, Craftsman, and DieHard — among the most trusted and preferred brands in the U.S. The company is the nation’s largest provider of home services, with more than 6,000 expert technicians who make nearly 11 million service calls annually. For more information, visit the Sears, Roebuck website at www.sears.com or the Sears Holdings Corporation website at www.searsholdings.com.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Larry Costello
Sears Holdings Corp.
847-286-9036
Larry.Costello@searshc.com

Chloe Zuanich
Havas Formula for Sears
312.229.0605
sears@havasformula.com

SOURCE: Sears, Roebuck and Co.

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Office Depot announces its Black Friday deals

BOCA RATON, Fla., 2017-Nov-11 — /EPR Retail News/ — Office Depot, Inc. (NASDAQ:ODP), a leading provider of office supplies, business products and services delivered through an omnichannel platform, today (November 8, 2017) announced its Black Friday deals, available both in stores and at officedepot.com, for shoppers to find items to gift their business and treat themselves at discounted prices.

“This is the season to not only gift your business, but to treat yourself. We’re offering incredible deals both online and in stores, so that shoppers can easily tackle all of their holiday gifting needs,” said Marko Ibrahim, senior vice president of North America retail for Office Depot, Inc.

Office Depot’s Black Friday deals will provide the best selection of holiday items for everyone on your gift list.

Black Friday deals available online 11/23 – 11/25 and in-store 11/24 – 11/25 include 1 :

  • HP Touch Screen 15.6″ Laptop with Intel 8th Generation Core i7 Processor, 8GB RAM and 1 TB Hard Drive for $449.99 (reg. $849)
  • HP 15.6″ Laptop with Intel 8th Generation Core i5 Processor, 8GB RAM and 1 TB Hard Drive for $349.99 (reg. $599.99)
  • HP 14″ Laptop with Intel Inside & Microsoft Office pre-installed for $167.99 (reg. $299.99)
  • Dell Touch Screen 24″ All-in-One Desktop PC – Black or White2 option for $419.99 (reg. $649.99)
  • Samsung 32″ HD Monitor for $169.99 (reg. $299.99)
  • Dell™ Gaming Laptop with Intel Core i5 Processor, 8GB RAM, 1 TB and NVIDIA GTX1050 Graphics for $629.99 (reg. $899.99)
  • Dell™ Gaming Desktop with AMD Ryzen 5 Processor, 8GB RAM, 1 TB and AMD Radeon™ RX 570 for $649.99 (reg. $899.99)
  • Online only: HP Touch Screen 15.6″ Laptop with Intel 8th Generation Core i7 Processor, 8GB RAM and 256GB Solid State Drive for $529.99 (reg. $929.99)
  • Online only: HP Touch Screen 15.6″ Laptop with Intel 8th Generation Core i7 Processor, 12GB RAM and 1 TB Hard Drive for $499.99 (reg. $899.99)
  • Doorbuster: 7:45 a.m. to noon on 11/24–Free McAfee Live Safe Card 3
  • New PC Set Up, 1 Year of McAfee and 2 years of Square Trade Coverage (Total Protection) for $98.98 (reg. $149.99-$249)4
  • Realspace® Magellan L-Desk with Hutch, (Best-selling desk in four finishes) for $207.98 (reg. $519.98). Plus, Entire Realspace® Magellan collection on sale (desks, bookcases, and files)
  • Realspace® Magellan Managers Desk, (three finishes) for $139.99 (reg. $279.99)
  • Serta® Hensley Big & Tall Chair for $239.99 (reg. $399.99). Plus, all Serta® Chairs on Sale
  • WorkPro® Quantum Ergonomic Mesh Mid Back Chair for $219.99 (reg. $369.99). Plus, all WorkPro® Chairs on Sale
  • Online only: Canon EOS Rebel T6 18.0-Megapixel Digital SLR Camera Kit With 18-55 mm IS II and 75-300 mm III Lenses for $449.99 (reg. $749.99)
  • Google Home for $79 (reg. $129)
  • Google WiFi for $99 (reg. $129)
  • Google WiFi 3pk for $249 (reg. $299)
  • Virtual Reality Headset with Bluetooth controller and retractable wireless earbuds for $11 (reg. $29.99)

To view the Black Friday ad with a complete list of the offers, visit officedepot.com/blackfriday.

While Office Depot and OfficeMax stores will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, so that shoppers and associates can spend quality time with family and friends, customers can get a head start on holiday deal shopping online at 12:01 a.m. ET Thanksgiving Day and offers are valid until 11:59 p.m. ET on Saturday, Nov. 25. Stores will open at 7:45 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 24 and offers are valid through Saturday, Nov. 25.

Visit officedepot.com to find an Office Depot or OfficeMax location near you, and for more information on special holiday deals and savings.

About Office Depot, Inc.

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

The company had 2016 annual sales of approximately $11 billion, employed approximately 38,000 associates, and served consumers and businesses in North America and abroad with approximately 1,400 retail stores, award-winning e-commerce sites and a dedicated business-to-business sales organization – with a global network of wholly owned operations, franchisees, licensees and alliance partners. The company operates under several banner brands including Office Depot, OfficeMax and Grand & Toy. The company’s portfolio of exclusive product brands include TUL, Foray, Brenton Studio, Ativa, WorkPro, Realspace and Highmark.

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

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

1 Prices not valid in Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands

2 White Dell All-in-One available only online

3 Available only in stores. Minimum 25 per store. Limit 1 per customer. While supplies last. No rainchecks.

4 Available only in stores. Virus-Free Guarantee: If your protected devices become infected within one (1) year from date of software purchase, we will remove the virus, malware or spyware at no additional cost. Device must be virus free at time of software installation. See associate for details. 2 Year Protection: Limitations and exclusions apply. See officedepot.com/protection for terms and conditions of complete coverage details. Term begins on the date of purchase but does not replace the manufacturer’s coverage.

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

Sarah England
561-438-1448
sarah.england@officedepot.com

Source: Office Depot, Inc.

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Sears celebrates the opening of its new appliances and mattresses store in Camp Hill, Pa.

Sears celebrates the opening of its new appliances and mattresses store in Camp Hill, Pa.

 

Retailer Expands Specialized Retail Model, Unveiling New Store at Capital City Mall

HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill., 2017-Nov-10 — /EPR Retail News/ — Sears announced the grand opening of its latest store dedicated to appliances and mattresses, designed to deliver a specialized retail experience to current and prospective members. Located in Camp Hill, Pa., the store will be the first of its kind in the Northeast. The unique retail concept focuses on two of Sears’ strongest categories – appliances and mattresses – while additionally offering the expertise and capability of its leading integrated services. The new store follows the successful model of the first Sears Appliances & Mattresses store located in Pharr, Texas, which has been open since June of this year, as well as the Sears Appliances store, which opened in Ft. Collins, Colo. in 2016. Sears is also opening an Appliances & Mattresses store in Honolulu this weekend.

“We’re delighted by the positive feedback we’ve received from our members around the Ft. Collins and Pharr stores,” said Leena Munjal, senior vice president, Customer Experience and Integrated Retail, Sears Holdings. “At our new Camp Hill Sears Appliances & Mattresses store, the community will find an innovative, interactive shopping experience that showcases our leading array of appliances and mattresses, with the support of expert associates. This new store helps our members easily find the best product for them to live life now and enjoy these products in their homes for years to come.”

Located at 3595 Capital City Mall, the 12,248-sq. ft. Sears Appliances & Mattresses store showcases the top major appliance brands, including Kenmore®, in a bright, spacious setting with interactive displays, allowing members to view home appliances in kitchen vignettes and experience top mattress brands. Members can visualize how new appliances would look in a full-scale kitchen with the “Discover More” interactive digital display. Using a tablet, shoppers can select common kitchen layouts and appliances and further customize the experience by choosing colors and finishes. They also can use the “Discover More” digital display to shop for other products on sears.com.

The Camp Hill store also features an assortment of vacuums, floor care and home environment products, as well as countertop microwaves. Members can also try out mattresses from top brands including Tempur-Pedic®, Beautyrest, Sealy, Serta, Simmons and Stearns & Foster, and shop for select pillows and bedding.

The new location will feature the full suite of integrated retail services for which Sears is known, including:

  • Meet with An Expert: The free service helps members shop for home appliances and mattresses by letting them schedule appointments with in-store experts at a time convenient for them.
  • Free Shipping: Looking for a product that’s not carried in the Sears Appliances & Mattresses store? Simply open the Sears mobile app, find the item you want—apparel, footwear, tools, lawn and garden equipment and more—and get free shipping on orders placed while in store (when location services are enabled).
  • Buy Online and Ship to the Store, In-Vehicle Pickup: Members can purchase all products available on Sears.com or Kmart.com, ship to the store for free, then pick up their items at the store when they arrive, where they will be ready in five minutes, guaranteed. Members can even choose to have their item brought out to them by using Sears’ innovative In-Vehicle Pickup service.
  • Anyone, Anywhere Pickup: Members can order any item on Sears.com or Kmart.com and send a friend or family member to pick up the purchase—particularly useful for parents purchasing items for their kids who may be away at college.

A ribbon-cutting for the Camp Hill store will take place Friday, Nov. 10 at 10 a.m., and the grand opening celebration will continue Saturday, Nov. 11 at 10 a.m.

Ribbon-cutting festivities include:

  • 10 $25 Sears gift card giveaway raffles
  • Face painting for children
  • Food truck on-site from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Saturday festivities include:

  • 10 percent off storewide*
  • Goody bags for first 100 customers
  • Face painting for children
  • Raffles throughout the day

The new Sears Appliances & Mattresses store will be open Sunday, 11 a.m.– 6 p.m. and Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m.– 9 p.m. In most cases, Sears delivers appliances and mattresses Monday through Saturday.

The Sears Appliances & Mattresses store’s associates and technicians, who provide services such as installation, maintenance and repair, are trained and employed by Sears. Camp Hill members will also gain peace of mind knowing they can protect their purchases with one of the industry’s most comprehensive warranty programs, which has made Sears No. 1 in protection agreements.

*Some exclusions apply

About Sears, Roebuck and Co.
Sears, Roebuck and Co., a wholly owned subsidiary of Sears Holdings Corporation (NASDAQ: SHLD), is a leading integrated retailer providing merchandise and related services and is part of Shop Your Way, a social shopping experience where members have the ability to earn points and receive benefits across a wide variety of physical and digital formats through shopyourway.com. Sears, Roebuck offers its wide range of home merchandise, apparel and automotive products and services through Sears-branded and affiliated full-line and specialty retail stores. Sears, Roebuck also offers a variety of merchandise and services through sears.com and specialty catalogs. Sears, Roebuck offers consumers leading brands including Kenmore, Craftsman, and DieHard — among the most trusted and preferred brands in the U.S. The company is the nation’s largest provider of home services, with more than 6,000 expert technicians who make nearly 11 million service calls annually. For more information, visit the Sears, Roebuck website at www.sears.com or the Sears Holdings Corporation website at www.searsholdings.com.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Larry Costello
Sears Holdings Corp.
847-286-9036
Larry.Costello@searshc.com

Chloe Zuanich
Havas Formula for Sears
312.229.0605
sears@havasformula.com

SOURCE Sears, Roebuck and Co.

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Lowe’s expands “Smart Home powered by b8ta” connected-home shopping experience to 70 stores nationwide

Lowe’s expands “Smart Home powered by b8ta” connected-home shopping experience to 70 stores nationwide

 

MOORESVILLE, N.C., 2017-Nov-09 — /EPR Retail News/ — Building on the success of a three-store pilot last fall, Lowe’s Companies, Inc. (NYSE: LOW), in partnership with software-powered retailer b8ta, is expanding its “Smart Home powered by b8ta” connected-home shopping experience to 70 Lowe’s stores nationwide. The store-within-a-store offers an innovative shopping solution for customers interested in smart home devices. Each destination features a curated selection of top-rated smart home products and offers consumers onsite support from specially trained experts known as “b8ta testers.”

By enabling customers to easily discover, learn and try the latest smart home technology all in one place, Lowe’s and b8ta are providing a unique, service-oriented environment that elevates the retail experience.”>By enabling customers to easily discover, learn and try the latest smart home technology all in one place, Lowe’s and b8ta are providing a unique, service-oriented environment that elevates the retail experience. With b8ta’s dashboard and analytics, product displays and content are easily adjustable based on customer insights, delivering a more convenient and informative smart home shopping experience.

“Consumers aspire to live a connected life and crave solutions that make this possible,” said Ruth Crowley, vice president of customer experience design at Lowe’s. “Smart home products simplify life – but the technology can sometimes be confusing or intimidating. So, we developed Smart Home powered by b8ta to emulate a ‘lab-like’ atmosphere that empowers customers to make informed decisions.”

Customers will be immediately drawn to the wood-paneled aisles near the front of the store where more than 60 smart home products are exhibited. The fully immersive format includes a wide array of items ranging from security systems to thermostats, cameras to lighting, speakers and more from brands customers know and trust including Google, Sonos, GE, Nest, Iris, Samsung and Ring. Products are displayed out of the box to encourage hands-on play and enhance product knowledge. iPads with product-related content and pricing details can be found alongside each device. Smart phones are also available for customers to interact with products and supporting apps, the same as they would use them at home.

By partnering with Lowe’s, b8ta is furthering its mission to bring customers unbiased access to the most cutting-edge technology and allow them to try it firsthand. b8ta’s innovative retail-as-a-service solution – based on customer insights – simplifies the purchasing process for customers exploring connected devices.

“b8ta makes shopping for connected home products accessible and easy. Nationwide, consumers will have the opportunity to engage and demo a curated selection of connected products, with knowledgeable product experts on-hand to navigate consumers through their journey,” said Phillip Raub, co-founder and Chief Brand Officer of b8ta.

In addition to the store-within-a-store format, 1,000 Lowe’s stores rolled out specialized smart home displays featuring products primed for Black Friday and the Holiday gifting season. Lowe’s online shopping experience was also enhanced so that all customers – however they prefer to shop – can enjoy a curated smart home experience and learn more about the b8ta collaboration. The site provides product knowledge, including use cases to inspire ideas for creating a smarter home.

“Smart Home powered by b8ta” is available in select major U.S. markets, including New York City, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Dallas, Philadelphia, Boston, Washington D.C., Miami, Tampa, Raleigh and Charlotte. For more info about store locations and to view the enhanced digital experience, visit: www.lowes.com/smarthome.

About Lowe’s
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.

About b8ta
b8ta, a software-powered retailer designed to make physical retail accessible for all, was founded by Vibhu Norby (CEO), William Mintun(COO), and Phillip Raub (CBO). b8ta helps people discover new products while empowering makers with a simple retail-as-a-service model that puts them in control. b8ta has locations in Palo Alto, Santa Monica, Seattle, Austin, San Francisco, Corte Madera, Houston and New York with more opening soon. To learn more about b8ta, visit b8ta.com, or find a b8ta store near you at www.b8ta.com/locations.

Media Inquiries:

Tel: 704-758-2917
Email: PublicRelations@Lowes.com

Source: Lowe’s Companies, Inc.

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