Category Archives: Retail Trade Consulting

Posted on by

National Retail Federation announces the appointment of Christian Beckner to head its cybersecurity program

WASHINGTON, 2018-Feb-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — The National Retail Federation today (February 9, 2018) announced that it has hired Christian Beckner, a top Washington cybersecurity think tank expert and former U.S. Senate homeland security advisor, to head its cybersecurity program that helps retailers protect sensitive consumer data nationwide.

“Protecting consumer data is one of retailers’ top priorities, and Christian is a proven cybersecurity veteran with the expertise and experience to help us combat this never-ending battle,” NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay said. “His diverse background and in-depth knowledge of technology and security is an unparalleled resource for the retail industry and the consumers they serve.”

As senior director of retail technology, Beckner will lead NRF’s CIO Council, IT Security Council and cybersecurity program, and will be responsible for developing strategies, programs and activities to maintain NRF as the technology leader and convener in the retail sector. Included in the cybersecurity program is the NRF Retail Information Sharing and Analysis Organization and Threat Alert System, which gathers intelligence on cybersecurity threats targeting retailers and alerts companies to help them keep data secure.

“I am looking forward to taking the next step in my career working on behalf of an industry with such a unique set of technology and security challenges,” Beckner said. “Retailers work round-the-clock every day against cyber threats, and I want to use what I’ve learned over the last two decades to help them address these critical issues head on.”

Beckner spent the past five years as deputy director of George Washington University’s Center for Cyber and Homeland Security, a think tank where he focused on cybersecurity, counterterrorism and homeland security. He was previously an associate staff director at the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, where he was responsible for coordination of oversight and legislation on a broad range of homeland security and intelligence issues. Among other assignments, he contributed to the committee’s investigation of the 2009 Fort Hood terrorist attack. He has worked on cybersecurity and homeland security issues for close to 20 years, including positions at IBM, the Center for Strategic and International Studies and the O’Gara Company.

Beckner holds a bachelor’s degree in international relations from Stanford University and a master’s degree in foreign service and an MBA, both from Georgetown University.

About NRF
NRF is the world’s largest retail trade association, representing discount and department stores, home goods and specialty stores, Main Street merchants, grocers, wholesalers, chain restaurants and internet retailers from the United States and more than 45 countries. Retail is the nation’s largest private-sector employer, supporting one in four U.S. jobs — 42 million working Americans. Contributing $2.6 trillion to annual GDP, retail is a daily barometer for the nation’s economy.

Contact:

Ana Serafin Smith
(202) 626-8189
press@nrf.com
(855) NRF-Press

Source: NRF

Posted on by

RILA welcomes new Board Chairman Brian Cornell chairman and CEO of Target Corporation

Semi-Annual Meeting Brings New Chairman, Four New Board Members​

Arlington , VA, 2018-Jan-24 — /EPR Retail News/ — The Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) announced today (1/22/2018) that four top retail executives have been selected to join the association’s Board of Directors in an election that took place during the Board’s semi-annual meeting, held Sunday in Tucson, Arizona. In addition, RILA welcomed a new Board Chairman, Brian Cornell, chairman and chief executive officer of Target Corporation. Cornell, who succeeds former Chairman Bill Rhodes of AutoZone, will serve a two-year term.

New to the association’s Board of Directors are:

  • Gina Boswell, President, Customer Development, Unilever
  • Mark Breitbard, President & Chief Executive Officer, Banana Republic, Gap Inc.
  • Michele Buck, President & Chief Executive Officer, The Hershey Co.
  • Richard Keyes, President & Chief Executive Officer, Meijer, Inc.

“The past year was one of tremendous change in retail as we saw fundamental shifts in where and how people choose to shop. We also saw firsthand the power of our industry when we find common ground and advocate for consumers.  As RILA’s Chairman, I’m looking forward to the opportunity to build upon our shared successes and help drive positive change for our customers, our teams and our industry,” said Brian Cornell, chairman and chief executive officer, Target Corporation.

For a full Q&A with Brian Cornell about his upcoming chairmanship, click here.

“RILA is fortunate to be led by such an exceptional Board of Directors. Our success is in large part a result of their commitment to collaborate with one another and provide us with critical insights and direction,” said RILA President Sandy Kennedy. “We’re thrilled to welcome four additional Board members this year and we’re confident that we will continue to accomplish great things under Brian’s leadership.”

The 2018 RILA Board of Directors:

  • Brian Cornell, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer, Target Corporation (Chairman)
  • Mary Dillon, Chief Executive Officer, ULTA Beauty (Vice Chairman)
  • Bill Rhodes, Chairman, President & Chief Executive Officer, AutoZone, Inc. (Immediate Past Chairman)
  • James Myers, Chairman, Petco Holdings, Inc. (Treasurer)
  • Robert Niblock, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer, Lowe’s Companies, Inc. (Secretary)
  • Gina Boswell, President, Customer Development, Unilever*
  • Mark Breitbard, President & Chief Executive Officer, Banana Republic, Gap Inc.*
  • Shelley Broader, President & Chief Executive Officer, Chico’s FAS, Inc.
  • Michele Buck, President & Chief Executive Officer, The Hershey Co.*
  • James Dinkins, President, Coca-Cola North America, The Coca-Cola Company
  • Marvin Ellison, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer, J.C. Penney Company, Inc.
  • Alexander Gourlay, Co-Chief Operating Officer, Walgreens Boot Alliance and President, Walgreen Co.
  • Alan Hoskins, Chief Executive Officer, Energizer Holdings, Inc.
  • Joe Jensen, Vice President, Internet of Things Group, and General Manager, Retail Solutions Division, Intel Corporation
  • Richard Johnson, President & Chief Executive Officer, Foot Locker, Inc.
  • Hubert Joly, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer, Best Buy Co., Inc.
  • Richard Keyes, President & Chief Executive Officer, Meijer, Inc.*
  • Stephen Laughlin, Vice President & Global Industry Leader, Retail, IBM Corporation
  • Craig Menear, Chairman, Chief Executive Officer & President, The Home Depot, Inc.
  • Michael Polk, Chief Executive Officer, Newell Brands
  • Steve Rendle, President & Chief Executive Officer, VF Corporation
  • Gregory Sandfort, Chief Executive Officer, Tractor Supply Company
  • Jill Standish, Senior Managing Director, Global Retail Consulting Practice, Accenture
  • Todd Vasos, Chief Executive Officer, Dollar General Corporation
  • Sandra Kennedy, President, Retail Industry Leaders Association

*Denotes Newly Elected Member

RILA is the trade association of the world’s largest and most innovative retail companies. RILA members include more than 200 retailers, product manufacturers, and service suppliers, which together account for more than $1.5 trillion in annual sales, millions of American jobs, and more than 100,000 stores, manufacturing facilities, and distribution centers domestically and abroad.

Contact:
Christin Fernandez
Vice President, Communications
Phone: 703-600-2039
Email: christin.fernandez@rila.org

Source: RILA

Posted on by

The biggest tradeshow on retail design and in-store marketing in India to be held in Mumbai from 22 to 24 February 2018

  • Biggest tradeshow on retail design and in-store marketing in India
  • Over 150 exhibitors with 4,000 sqm are expecting around 7,500 visitors
  • In-Store Asia offers comprehensive package of trade fair, convention, design award and VM competition

DUSSELDORF, Germany, 2018-Jan-24 — /EPR Retail News/ — In November 2016, Messe Düsseldorf India and the Indian company Thought Shows & Events Pvt Ltd. founded a new company, Excosa, thus paving the way for a joint focus of the specialist trade fair In-Store Asia. Now the time has finally come: for the first time, from 22 to 24 February 2018 In-Store Asia will take place under joint management, and the event will also be its first time as a member of the EuroShop family.

In-Store Asia is the biggest tradeshow on retail design and in-store marketing on the Indian subcontinent. For over a decade is has helped decisively in keeping up with trends, innovations and developments throughout the world. Now In-Store Asia is set to become a member of the EuroShop family. For EuroShop, the World´s No. 1 Retail Trade Fair, this market début is ideal in view of the healthy growth rates on the Indian retail market.

Everything is going extremely well for In-Store Asia 2018: having attracted over 125 exhibitors and filling 4,000 sqm net exhibition space so far, the trade fair is already 30 per cent up compared with the previous event. Around 7,500 trade visitors are expected to come to the Bombay Exhibition Centre on the three days of the event. This year a large number of new exhibitors have registered and, what is more, the share of international exhibitors has risen by 20% and is currently the highest ever, including companies from the United States, China, Italy and Taiwan.

One trade fair – four highlights

Expo: In-Store Asia will feature a large range of products and services, comprising POP displays, shopper marketing, retail technology and signage as well as digital printing, retail design, visual merchandising, lighting, materials, fittings and accessories.

Convention: The simultaneously held convention is expected to attract 350 decision-makers from the retail trade, including brand manufacturers, retailers, retail designers, visual merchandisers and shopper marketing agencies. More than 20 Indian and international speakers will be giving presentations on current issues in the industry.

VM&RD Retail Design Awards:  The award ceremony for the 10th VM&RD Retail Design Awards will be the most prestigious event in the Indian retail design community and is due to be held on the second day of In-Store Asia. Top retail designers will be competing in 12 store design categories as well as in 10 special categories. The number of companies applying for this year’s awards has been higher than ever, with companies submitting 360 projects in all.

VM Challenge: Last but not least, In-Store Asia 2018 will conduct its highly popular window display competition, known as the VM Challenge. This year 42 top visual merchandisers from more than 15 top brands will be competing with one another.

For further details or to register as a participant, please go to www.instoreasia.org/#registration

Contact at Messe Düsseldorf India:
Mr.Jitender Sharma
Messe Düsseldorf India Pvt. Ltd.
Tel: +91 (0) 11 4855 0054
Email: SharmaJ@md-india.com
Web: www.md-india.com

Contact in Düsseldorf:
Dr. Cornelia Jokisch
Senior Manager Press & PR
Messe Düsseldorf GmbH
Tel.: +49 (0)211 4560-998 or -999,
Fax: +49 (0)211 4560-8548
Email: JokischC@messe-duesseldorf.de, KarlT@messe-duesseldorf.de
Web: www.messe-duesseldorf.de, www.euroshop.de

Source: EuroShop

Posted on by

The fourth annual NRF Foundation Gala raised more than $2.8 million to support its educational and inspirational initiatives

NEW YORK, 2018-Jan-16 — /EPR Retail News/ — The fourth annual NRF Foundation Gala took place Sunday, January 14, at Pier Sixty in New York City, featuring an uplifting awards program and formal dinner that included both silent and live auctions. The star-studded event raised more than $2.8 million to support the Foundation’s programs, including educational and inspirational initiatives, student scholarships and RISE Up, a powerful, industry-backed credentialing program.

“We are so grateful for the retailers and partners who made 2018 another record-breaking year for the Gala,” NRF Foundation Executive Director Ellen Davis said. “Our work is made possible through generous contributions from companies and individuals who believe in the future of retail and see it as the industry that powers America’s workforce. We look forward to putting these funds to work by continuing to execute programs and initiatives that shape retail’s future.”

The Gala was attended by more than 800 retail CEOs and senior executives, industry insiders, celebrities and students who came together to support the future of retail talent and to celebrate The List of People Shaping Retail’s Future. In addition, four-time NBA champion and ESPN sports analyst Shaquille O’Neal presented NRF’s “The Visionary” award to Doug McMillon, president and CEO of Walmart, a recognition for an inspiring leader with a record of spearheading change in the industry.

At the Gala, the NRF Foundation also announced the recipients of its Student Challenge and Next Generation scholarships. Courtney Nash, a senior at the University of Arizona, was the top recipient of the 2018 Next Generation Scholarship. Nash, one of five finalists, was awarded a $25,000 scholarship. In addition, the NRF Foundation named Ashley Cairns, Blake Fortin and Kendall McDermott from Columbia College Chicago as the top team in the Student Challenge competition; each was awarded a $5,000 scholarship.

In addition to members of the National Retail Federation’s Board of Directors and the NRF Foundation’s Board of Directors, other notable guests included Omar Miller from the HBO hit series “Ballers,” super model Niki Taylor, Dorinda Medley and Kristen Taekman from the Bravo hit series “The Real Housewives of New York City,” and E! News celebrity correspondent Alicia Quarles.

The Gala capped off the first day of NRF 2018: Retail’s Big Show, welcoming 36,000 retailers and their business partners from around the world at the Javits Center in New York City, January 15-16, 2018.

About NRF
NRF is the world’s largest retail trade association, representing discount and department stores, home goods and specialty stores, Main Street merchants, grocers, wholesalers, chain restaurants and Internet retailers from the United States and more than 45 countries. Retail is the nation’s largest private-sector employer, supporting one in four U.S. jobs — 42 million working Americans. Contributing $2.6 trillion to annual GDP, retail is a daily barometer for the nation’s economy.

About NRF Foundation
The NRF Foundation shapes retail’s future by building awareness of the industry through statistics and stories; developing talent through education, experiences and scholarships; and fostering career growth among people who work in retail. The NRF Foundation is the 501(c)(3) nonprofit arm of the National Retail Federation and is funded in part by generous donations from retail industry supporters. NRF.com/Foundation.

Contact:
Ana Serafin Smith
(202) 626-8189
press@nrf.com
(855) NRF-Press

Source: NRF

Posted on by

NRF Foundation announces 25 individuals named to The List of People Shaping Retail’s Future

WASHINGTON, 2017-Dec-07 — /EPR Retail News/ — The NRF Foundation today (December 6, 2017) announced the 25 individuals named to The List of People Shaping Retail’s Future. The honorees represent the best and brightest individuals impacting the retail industry and will be celebrated January 14, 2018, at the NRF Foundation Gala during NRF 2018: Retail’s Big Show in New York City. Proceeds from the Gala benefit the NRF Foundation, NRF’s nonprofit arm, which is committed to shaping the future of retail talent.

“An industry as dynamic as retail needs leaders with a range of talents from creatives to humanitarians to entrepreneurs,” NRF Foundation Executive Director Ellen Davis said. “Each person on The List embodies these qualities in some way and is helping to steer the retail industry toward a bright future.”

Now in its fourth year, the Gala brings together hundreds of industry executives to honor those named to The List and awards scholarships to talented students working to become the next generation of retail leaders. In addition to celebrating The List at the Gala, NRF will also recognize Walmart President and CEO Doug McMillon as “The Visionary,” an award for an inspiring leader with a long record of spearheading change in the industry.

The 2018 Gala is expected to raise more than $2.5 million for NRF Foundation programs – including educational and inspirational initiatives, student scholarships and RISE Up, a powerful, industry-backed credentialing program – and is on track to sell out by the end of 2017.

The List of People Shaping Retail’s Future 2018:

Disruptors:

Jeff Barnett – CEO, Commerce Cloud, Salesforce
Adam Goldenberg – Co-CEO, TechStyle Fashion Group
Paul Hennessy – CEO, Vroom
Jeff Kearl – CEO, Stance
Chris McCann –President and CEO, 1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc.
Emily Weiss – Founder and CEO, Glossier

Dreamers:

Isabelle and Katherine Adams – Co-CEOs, Paper For Water
Michael Lastoria – Co-Founder, CEO and Creative Director, &pizza
Carley Ochs – Founder, CEO and Designer, Bourbon and Boweties
Kate Ross LeBlanc – CEO and Co-Founder, Saje Natural Wellness

Givers:

Jim “Mattress Mack” McIngvale – Owner and Philanthropist, Gallery Furniture
Brittany Merrill Underwood – Founder and CEO, Akola Project
Karin Norington-Reaves – CEO, Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership
Buddy Teaster – President and CEO, Soles4Souls
Hamdi Ulukaya – Founder, Chairman and CEO, Chobani

Influencers:

Matthew Boss – Managing Director, Equity Research, Consumer Discretionary/Retailing, J.P. Morgan
Amanda Curtis and Gemma Sole – Co-Founders, Nineteenth Amendment
Jonathan Sokoloff – Managing Partner, Leonard Green & Partners
Rob Sweeney – Global Head of Consumer and Retail Investment Banking, Goldman Sachs
Barbara Thau – Contributing Retail Writer, Forbes.com

Power Players:

Mary Campbell – Executive Vice President, Commerce Platforms, QVC, Inc.
James ‘JC’ Curleigh – President, Levi’s Brand
Jane Elfers – President and CEO, The Children’s Place, Inc.
Helena Foulkes – Executive Vice President, CVS Health, and President, CVS Pharmacy
Greg Scott – CEO, New York & Company

About The NRF Foundation 
The NRF Foundation shapes retail’s future by building awareness of the industry through statistics and stories; developing talent through education, experiences and scholarships; and fostering career growth among people who work in retail. The NRF Foundation is the 501(c)(3) nonprofit arm of the National Retail Federation and is funded in part by generous donations from retail industry supporters. NRF.com/Foundation.

Contact:

Ana Serafin Smith
(202) 626-8189
press@nrf.com
(855) NRF-Press

Source: NRF

Posted on by

Screwfix research reveals that More than half of UK tradespeople (57%) struggle to find skilled labour

  • More than half of tradespeople (57%) struggle to find skilled labour – 37% think apprenticeships are not respected as much as university and 31% believe school leavers are put off by a poor perception of trade careers

Yeovil, United Kingdom, 2017-Dec-04 — /EPR Retail News/ — UK tradespeople are optimistic about the future, with 82% expecting business activity to remain at the same level or grow over the next 12 months, additionally, nearly half (45%) report being busier than last year. However, research conducted by trade retailer, Screwfix, has revealed the majority (57%) are reporting difficulties in recruiting staff to support them. This is primarily due to:

  • a lack of focus on encouraging new people to train in the trades
  • not enough local skilled tradespeople
  • too much red tape.

For those who struggle to recruit skilled employees, more than one third (37%) believe it is because apprenticeships are not given the same level of respect as a university education. Furthermore, 31% say poor public perception of a career in the trade means school leavers are not interested in pursuing a future in construction.

The research, conducted as part of Screwfix Trade Pulse*, a monthly index of more than 500 UK tradespeople, also revealed strong work levels across the trade at the moment, as nearly one fifth (18%) of tradespeople has more work than they can handle and 40% are quoting for more jobs than 12 months ago.

Nearly all (94%) tradespeople said they would recommend a career in the trade and of the reasons why, 85% say they have a strong sense of achievement when a job is done and, 80% enjoy seeing the results of their hard work.

More than half (57%) of those surveyed said they started as apprentices and, when it comes to increasing the numbers undertaking trade apprenticeships, more than one third (35%) believe greater focus is needed on vocational education in schools. More than one quarter (26%) believe improved awareness about the opportunities offered by a career in the trade would drive greater uptake of apprenticeships, with 19% saying that reducing red tape for employers looking to hire an apprentice should be considered.

The research also looked at views around those entering construction at a later stage in their careers. The significant majority (82%) of tradespeople think more could be done to attract people to the trade further into their working lives. More than two thirds (69%) think increasing awareness of the opportunities available would help attract people into the trade and 61% believe greater knowledge of the support available to retrain is also crucial.

Graham Bell, CEO of Screwfix, comments: “When we speak to tradespeople across our 533 stores, they reflect what these findings show us. Tradespeople tell us they have full work diaries but, many struggle to recruit skilled employees when looking to support their growing business so, it is clear that focused efforts are needed to drive recruitment and training into the trades.

“There is much focus on a reported construction skills challenge with various reasons given including loss of talent during the downturn and a lack of new entrants joining the trade. That’s why, now more than ever, all parties including government, suppliers and education providers should work together. It was encouraging to see the investment pledged into improving construction skills by the government in the recent Budget but, collectively, we also need to demonstrate why construction is such a great sector to work in and, help those who may be interested in embarking on a career in the trade to overcome barriers they may face.  We also need to support tradespeople who want to take on apprentices or hire skilled labour to support their business at a time of much opportunity.”

Screwfix supports the trade however it can, so alongside practical support such as opening a store at the rate of one per week, to bring Screwfix even closer, it offers ‘Your Guide to Hiring an Apprentice’, a free, bitesize guide available in stores for those tradespeople who may be looking to take on an apprentice. To further shine a light on those hardworking new entrants to the trade, it also holds an annual Trade Apprentice competition where a £10,000 business start-up kit is up for grabs. Both this award and its Britain’s Top Tradesperson nationwide search showcase what a great career option the trade offers, whether you start out as an apprentice or retrain later in your working life.

In addition, to support skills growth in the construction trade, Screwfix has recently started to work with colleges directly, partnering locally first with Yeovil College. It has invested in the Screwfix Trade Skills Centre, a new purpose-built site for students studying the pilot Screwfix Trade Academy course, which covers bricklaying, plumbing, carpentry and electrical contracting. The first recruits started in September 2017.

Screwfix is also looking at other ways it can support the trade and will be launching further initiatives in the future.

Screwfix Trade Pulse is a monthly index which surveys more than 500 UK tradespeople to track work levels and optimism among the trade.  Nearly 250 tradespeople were also surveyed on special topic areas including skills and availability of labour. The retailer undertakes the research to gain greater insight into the needs of its customers to ensure it provides the services and products required.
PRESS information:

For more information, please contact:

Georgina Lineton
McCann Public Relations
Tel: 0121 713 3579
georgina.lineton@mccann.com

Source: Kingfisher

Posted on by

The National Retail Federation applauds Senate passage of landmark tax reform legislation

WASHINGTON, 2017-Dec-04 — /EPR Retail News/ —The National Retail Federation welcomed Senate passage early today (December 2, 2017) of landmark tax reform legislation, saying congressional action on the pro-growth plan is helping boost consumer confidence and that savings from reform could be enough to pay for many families’ holiday shopping.

“This vote couldn’t come at a better time,” NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay said. “Holiday shopping was strong throughout the Thanksgiving weekend, and a good part of the reason was optimism about the work Congress is doing to pass tax reform. Consumers and voters are beginning to realize that tax reform will create jobs, leave more money in the pockets of middle-class Americans and give our nation’s economy the biggest boost it’s seen in decades. In fact, the savings is enough to give the average family a free Christmas. It’s time to get this legislation to President Trump so American consumers will know they can count on extra money in their paychecks come January.”

“We look forward to members of the House and Senate sitting down to reconcile the differences between their versions of the legislation so that a final bill can be signed into law as soon as possible,” Shay said. “There is far more that the two chambers agree on than they disagree on. And both clearly agree that the time for tax reform has come.”

According to the Senate Finance Committee, a typical family of four earning the average annual income of $73,000 would see its taxes cut by nearly $1,500 a year, or $125 a month, and some estimates are higher. The number is enough to completely cover the $967.13 NRF expects the average consumer to spend this year as part of up to $682 billion in holiday season sales.

An NRF survey found that 174 million American adults shopped from Thanksgiving Day through Cyber Monday, 10 million more than NRF had projected.

NRF is the world’s largest retail trade association, representing discount and department stores, home goods and specialty stores, Main Street merchants, grocers, wholesalers, chain restaurants and internet retailers from the United States and more than 45 countries. Retail is the nation’s largest private-sector employer, supporting one in four U.S. jobs – 42 million working Americans. Contributing $2.6 trillion to annual GDP, retail is a daily barometer for the nation’s economy.

Contact:

J. Craig Shearman
(202) 626-8134
press@nrf.com
(855) NRF-Press

Source: NRF

Posted on by

RILA again teams up with Sustainable Brands® for their 2018 flagship conference

Vancouver Event Will Feature Retail-Specific Program Track

Arlington , VA, 2017-Nov-29 — /EPR Retail News/ — Today (11/28/2017), the Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) announced that for the second year in a row they will be teaming up with Sustainable Brands® for their 2018 flagship conference in Vancouver, Canada. The event, Redesigning the Good Life, is the second of a three-year global initiative to discover how society’s desire to become a better world is transforming the way brands deliver value.

As part of the partnership, RILA will produce a retail-specific educational track focused on the issues, opportunities, and challenges of sustainable retail within the Sustainable Brands program – and specifically addressing the circular economy. The Sustainable Brands conference covers innovation and sustainability initiatives across multiple consumer-facing industries.

“We initially chose to partner with Sustainable Brands to introduce our retailers to new and innovative approaches to CSR, while continuing to deliver the leadership content historically featured at RILA’s Sustainability Conference,”said RILA Senior Vice President of Research, Innovation, & Sustainability Adam Siegel. “The Sustainable Brands community welcomed us with open arms, and I saw last year’s conference as a huge step toward building a lasting partnership. We look forward to building on that experience, and to bringing together our communities again for more transformational content and experiences in Vancouver.”

“We are delighted to continue our strategic partnership with RILA in 2018,” states KoAnn Vikoren Skryzniarz, founder of Sustainable Brands. “Retailers command a critical position within the global economy, with significant potential to both support and help reshape consumer choices and lifestyles. The retail sector has both a substantial need, and great opportunity to rethink business models and approaches to serving customers alongside the brands they choose to partner with. We look forward to another great year of convening both retailers and their brand partners together in one room to share insights and collaborate more fully on redesigning value propositions, business models, and customer experience in ways that support their own resiliency and a better future for all.”

The 2018 Sustainable Brands conference will be held June 4-7, 2018 in Vancouver, Canada. Pre-registration for SB’18 Vancouver is now open. Please inquire with Adam Siegel at RILA for special rates for retailers.

About RILA:

RILA is the trade association of the world’s largest and most innovative retail companies. RILA members include more than 200 retailers, product manufacturers, and service suppliers, which together account for more than $1.5 trillion in annual sales, millions of American jobs and more than 100,000 stores, manufacturing facilities and distribution centers domestically and abroad.

About Sustainable Brands:

Sustainable Brands® is the premier global community of brand innovators who are shaping the future of commerce worldwide. Since 2006, our mission has been to inspire, engage and equip today’s business and brand leaders to prosper for the near and long term by leading the way to a better future. Digitally published news articles and issues-focused conversation topics, internationally known conferences and regional events, a robust e-learning library and peer-to-peer membership groups all facilitate community learning and engagement throughout the year. Sustainable Brands is a division of Sustainable Life Media headquartered in San Francisco, CA.

Contact:

Christin Fernandez
Vice President, Communications
Phone: 703-600-2039
Email: christin.fernandez@rila.org

Source: RILA

Posted on by

NGA urges Senate to pass comprehensive tax reform to create a more level playing field for supermarkets operating as pass-through businesses

ARLINGTON, Va., 2017-Nov-29 — /EPR Retail News/ — The National Grocers Association (NGA), the trade association representing the independent supermarket industry, and 152 state trade associations and food retailers today urged the U.S. Senate to pass comprehensive tax reform that creates a more level playing field for supermarkets operating as pass-through businesses.

In a letter to Senators, the grocers expressed support for the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, but contend that the bill falls short of achieving rate parity between C-corporations and pass-through entities, which make up nearly half of NGA’s member companies. The proposed effective tax rate on qualifying pass-through businesses would be approximately 32 percent, or 12 percent above that of C-corporations.

“America’s pass-through independent supermarkets are a large and vital part of the economy and the new lower business tax rate needs to reflect their importance by being broadly applied and effectively enforced,” the group wrote to senators. “We urge Congress to support reforms that create a more level playing field for Main Street supermarkets so they can grow their businesses and create local jobs.”

In September, House and Senate leaders released a Unified Framework that pledged to treat pass-through businesses fairly in relation to their corporate competitors and called for a rate differential of five percentage points. The Senate bill ignores this promise and sunsets the pass-through deduction in seven years.

“Independent supermarkets are driving innovation in the marketplace. From implementing e-commerce strategies to developing new formats that enhance the customer experience, independent grocers are truly leading the way. We know tax reform can help these entrepreneurs to continue to invest in their communities, employees, and communities. We look forward to working with you and your colleagues to grow this important sector of the economy,” the letter concludes.

Contact:

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

Source: NGA

Posted on by

NGA urges the U.S. House of Representatives to pass the ADA Reform and Education Act of 2017

ARLINGTON, Va., 2017-Nov-28 — /EPR Retail News/ — The National Grocers Association (NGA), the trade association representing the independent supermarket industry, and 28 state trade associations today urged the U.S. House of Representatives to pass the ADA Reform and Education Act of 2017 (H.R. 620) in a letter sent to lawmakers. The legislation would protect businesses from frivolous lawsuits brought by ethically questionable lawyers often only seeking a payout instead of protecting disabled patrons.

Independent supermarket operators are frequently targets for legal action, or threats of legal action, designed to force a business to settle out of court instead of sustaining a protracted and expansive legal battle. To give stores an opportunity to correct potential violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), H.R. 620 would require supermarket operators to be given 60-days to respond to allegations after receiving written warning, and 120-days to make substantial progress toward addressing the alleged violation.

“In recent years, supermarket operators are no longer simply negotiating slip-and-fall lawsuits, but patent trolling and the threat of ADA litigation as well,” the group wrote to Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) and Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-CA). “Often ADA litigators have never been in the store that they are threatening to sue, or do not have a client that has been injured or harmed in any way. These attorneys regularly send threatening letters to store owners in hopes of an easy settlement.”

“Independent grocers are committed to complying with all ADA guidelines and making their stores accessible to disabled customers,” said Chris Jones, vice president of government relations and counsel at NGA. “Any supermarket found to have shortcomings under the ADA should be granted an opportunity to take corrective measures without the threat of a frivolous lawsuit from lawyers who are more interested in making a buck than protecting the rights of the disabled.”

Source: NGA

Posted on by

Australian Retailers Association believes toy retailers will be as busy as elves this Christmas

Melbourne, Australia, 2017-Nov-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — With the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) and Roy Morgan Research predicting Australians to spend more than $50 billion over the Christmas trading period from November 15 to December 24, 2017, the ARA believe toy retailers will be as busy as elves this Christmas.

With the ARA and Roy Morgan Research tipping Australian consumers to spend 2.8% more on Christmas compared to last year, ARA Executive Director, Russell Zimmerman said it’s a busy time for toy retailers across the country.

“Keeping up with hottest-selling toys for kids at Christmas is like keeping up with digital technology in the retail landscape… both retailers and consumers need to be prepared,” Mr Zimmerman said.

“With many new toys hitting the shelves this year, parents need to start their shopping early to ensure they can get the toy at the top of their children’s wish list.”

“Likewise retailers need to be prepared for the onslaught of parents trying to secure the perfect gift for their children.”

With the ARA and Roy Morgan Research predicting Aussies to increase their spending in the ‘Other retailing’ category by 3.96%, the ARA have worked with Toys“R”Us to identify the Top 20 Toys for kids this Christmas.

“It appears Hatchimals continue to outperform retailer’s expectations as they completely sold out last year, so we urge retailers to be prepared for a similar toy rush this pre-Christmas period,” Mr Zimmerman said.

New to the toy scene, LEGO Boost Creative Toolbox is one of the most sought-after interactive toys in the tech space this year. This innovative creation targeted for boys aged 7+, enhances the building and learning experience for boys by not only building the robot but also coding its behaviour.

“Gone are the days when we used to fly model planes, it seems LEGO Boost is now a must have for tech savvy youngsters this Christmas,” Mr Zimmerman said.

“Just like retail, Christmas is all about the consumer experience, and for girls aged 3+ this year’s highly sought-after toys include LOL Dolls and Pikmi Pops as they provide the ultimate unwrapping experience this silly season.”

With many Australian children on Santa’s nice list this year, the ARA expect both retailers and Santa’s elves to be extremely busy over the next few weeks.

To view the ARA and Roy Morgan’s Annual Pre-Christmas Sales Predictions for 2017 please click here. And for more information regarding the Top Toys this Christmas please click here.

About the Australian Retailers Association:

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

For interview opportunities with ARA Executive Director Russell Zimmerman call the ARA Media Line on 0439 612 556 or email media@retail.org.au

Source: ARA

Posted on by

The Australian Retailers Association welcomes ACCC’s Draft Determination of the Casual Mall Licensing Code of Practice

Melbourne, Australia, 2017-Nov-22 — /EPR Retail News/ — The Australian Retailers Association (ARA) has welcomed the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC)’s Draft Determination of the Casual Mall Licensing Code of Practice, supporting its concerns of the effective operation of the Code and their suggestion to invite respective organisations to become parties of the Code Administration Committee (CAC).

The ARA have long been working on this issue with the Australian Sporting Goods Association (ASGA), Franchise Council of Australia (FCA) and the Pharmacy Guild of Australia (PGA) as the CAC has not been functioning as intended, with ineffective administration and maintenance of the Code leading to a number of issues.

ARA Executive Director, Russell Zimmerman said the ARA have had both retailers and members highlight endless adjacency and line of sight issues with casual mall tenants that will need to be addressed in the re-authorisation of the Code.

“While retailers understand the use of pop-up shops for temporary promotions, those in direct competition with existing tenants should not be operating directly outside permanent retailers,” Mr Zimmerman said.

“The Code must be reviewed and amended, as any interference with sightlines to a permanent lessee should be at least avoided, if not prohibited, as it impacts unfairly on access, customer flow, and competition.”

The ARA strongly believe a diverse representation of parties on the Code is crucial to its success, however they do insist it is important for parties which are primarily affected by the Code to have ownership of it.

“While the ARA appreciate the recommended appointments to the CAC, we question the amount of knowledge some organisations might possess on retail leasing issues, particularly those that represent retail businesses who do not generally occupy physical stores,” Mr Zimmerman said.

“The ARA does not have any objection to the National Online Retailers Association (NORA) being put forward as a landlord nominee, nor the National Retailers Association (NRA) as a landlord nominee, given its close relationship in representing the interests of the SCCA over retail.”

The ARA, ASGA, FCA and PGA are committed to ensuring the success of the Code moving forward, and will not support re-authorisation of the Code until its current issues are addressed. Until then, the ARA will continue to seek regulatory intervention by the ACCC.

To view the ARA’s full submission to the ACCC please click here.

About the Australian Retailers Association:

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

For interview opportunities with ARA Executive Director, Russell Zimmerman, call the ARA Media team on 0439 612 556 or email media@retail.org.au.

Source: ARA

Posted on by

The Florida Retail Federation expects holiday sales to increase 3-3.5 percent over last year

In spite of the impacts of Hurricane Irma on Florida, FRF is still predicting a 3-3.5% increase in sales over 2016, thanks to high consumer confidence, robust housing, a 10-yr low unemployment rate and 100+ million tourists

TALLAHASSEE, FL, 2017-Nov-21 — /EPR Retail News/ — The Florida Retail Federation (FRF), the state’s premier trade association celebrating its 80th year of representing retailers, announced today (November 20, 2017 ) it expects holiday sales to increase 3-3.5 percent over last year, thanks to a healthy economy and a number of positive economic indicators.

“This season should be another strong one for our retail members, thanks to a 10 year low unemployment rate, a strong housing market, high consumer confidence and 100 million tourists leaving with more than what they came with,” said FRF President/CEO Scott Shalley. “Due to the increased competition among retailers, consumers should expect great deals and discounts as they enjoy the annual holiday shopping season with friends and family.”

The impact of Hurricane Irma on Floridians played a significant factor in the final forecast number for FRF. The storm caused damage in major population areas in Southwest Florida, South Florida and the Keys and the Jacksonville area. Many residents are still recovering and possibly unable to spend as much on holiday shopping this year. However, the overall strength of Florida’s economy and the resilience of the state’s retail industry will help make up for this potential loss of sales.

“Hurricane Irma hit our state extremely hard, particularly in these areas, and we factored in this impact in our forecast, but we feel the overall strength of our economy and the incredible recovery efforts that have taken place will help lessen the impact on retail sales this holiday season,” said Shalley.

Consumers are expected to spend an average of $967 on gifts, according to FRF’s partners at the National Retail Federation, which is up significantly from 2016’s average of $935 and higher than the previous record of $952 in 2015. This breaks down to $608 spent on gifts for family, friends and co-workers, $218 spent on decorations, flowers and greeting cards, and $141 spent by the shopper on themselves. Total spending is expected to increase to more than $678 billion, up from $655 billion last year thanks in part to the continued growth and spending of Millennials.

Consumer spending accounts for 75 percent of Florida’s gross domestic product totaling $155 billion each year. In particular, the holiday shopping season accounts for 20-40 percent of a retailer’s annual sales and steady year-over-year sales shows increasing economy stability. Florida’s retail industry totals more than 270,000 businesses which employ 2.7 million Floridians, and is responsible for one out of every five jobs.

One continued significant advantage that Florida enjoys over most other states is the influx of more than 100 million tourists, almost all of whom leave the state with more than they brought, bringing even more buying power with them. Surveys consistently list shopping as one of the top activities on the agendas of Florida vacations. And in an effort to attract shoppers of all types, retailers will be offering exclusive incentives, low prices, price-matching options, hot-selling toys and free shipping, which continues to be one of the most popular requested promotions each year.

“Tourism continues to be a powerful influence on the success of Florida’s economy and specifically the retail industry, and 2017 is expected to set a new record on number of tourists which is great news for our members,” said Shalley.

Sunshine State shoppers will load up on the most popular items this year, led by gift cards for the 11th year in a row, followed by clothing and accessories, books, movies or music, electronics, home décor and furnishings and jewelry. The most popular toys this holiday season will include Hatchimals, Toys from the new Star Wars and Justice League movies, Barbies and LEGOS, Nerf toys, and toys from Disney Junior shows.

One piece of advice to shoppers is if you see a good deal on an item early on in your shopping, make sure to buy it then as opposed to waiting and hoping for a better deal. Just as technology has made shoppers smarter and more savvy, it has also allowed retailers to better respond to demand by matching their inventory and not overstocking their merchandise. Speaking of early shopping, 40 percent of shoppers began their holiday shopping before Halloween to help spread out their spending with 29 percent complete by Black Friday.

“Retailers are responding to the demand by consumers to have the holiday shopping experience prior to the traditional late November/December timeframe,” said Shalley. “This is why consumers are already seeing holiday decorations and themes in stores, as retailers try to get shoppers in the Christmas shopping mindset earlier.”

One of the positive impacts of the holiday shopping season is the increase in employment. These jobs include workers stocking inventory, customer service, warehousing and even management. Nationally, the industry is expected to see between 500,000-555,000 seasonal jobs. The increase in hiring and the increase in economic activity during the holiday season have a positive impact on industries outside of just retail.

“The holiday season is a great time for new or returning professionals to enter the workforce as millions of temporary jobs turn into full-time jobs once the holiday shopping season is over,” said Shalley. “We look forward to the thousands of new jobs that families will have this year as a result of Florida’s retail industry.”

ABOUT THE FLORIDA RETAIL FEDERATION 
Founded in 1937, the Florida Retail Federation is the statewide trade association representing retailers — the businesses that sell directly to consumers. Florida retailers provide one out of every five jobs in the state, pay more than $49 billion in wages annually, and collect and remit more than $20 billion in sales taxes for Florida’s government each year. In fact, more than three out of four of Florida’s budget dollars come from retail-related activity.

CONTACT: 

James Miller
james@frf.org
(850)701-3015

Source: Florida Retail Federation

Posted on by

RILA welcomes House passage of the “Tax Cuts and Jobs Act”

Arlington , VA, 2017-Nov-20 — /EPR Retail News/ — Today (11/16/2017), the Retail Leaders Association (RILA), the trade association for America’s most recognized and innovative brands, issued a statement praising the House passage of the “Tax Cuts and Jobs Act”:

“We are thankful the House moved swiftly to pass this important legislation that will give America’s retailers and consumers a break. America’s current tax code is in dire need of an update. Retailers pay one of the nation’s highest effective corporate tax rates which is why we are pleased to see the corporate tax rate permanently reduced to 20 percent. This will allow savings to be reinvested to grow, add jobs and serve customers.  Further, we enthusiastically support the tax relief provided to individuals, specifically targeted to middle class taxpayers. Tax reform that works for retailers and customers is vital to keep our economy growing. We thank the House for listening to America’s retailers and our consumers, and urge the Senate to move forward on passing their proposal,” said Jennifer Safavian, executive vice president of government affairs for RILA.

RILA is the trade association of the worlds largest and most innovative retail companies. RILA members include more than 200 retailers, product manufacturers, and service suppliers, which together account for more than $1.5 trillion in annual sales, millions of American jobs, and more than 100,000 stores, manufacturing facilities, and distribution centers domestically and abroad.

Contact:
Christin Fernandez
Vice President, Communicatoins
Phone: 703-600-2039
Email: christin.fernandez@rila.org

Source: RILA

Posted on by

National Retail Federation: Retail industry employment saw a modest decline in September

WASHINGTON, 2017-Oct-10 — /EPR Retail News/ — Retail industry employment saw a modest decline in September, decreasing 4,600 jobs from revised August figures, the National Retail Federation said today (October 6, 2017). The number excludes automobile dealers, gasoline stations and restaurants. The economy overall saw a loss of 33,000 jobs in September.

“The recent hurricanes have caused distortions to economic figures and September employment numbers are likely to undergo dramatic revisions,” NRF Chief Economist Jack Kleinhenz said. “The silver lining is that hourly wages continue to gradually increase, giving households more spending power as the all-important holiday season approaches. Overall, the underlying momentum of the economy and the strength of the labor market remains firm.”

Kleinhenz noted that retail job numbers reported by the Labor Department don’t paint an entirely accurate picture of the industry because they count only employees who work in stores while excluding retail workers in other parts of the business like corporate headquarters, distribution centers, call centers and innovation labs.

Economy-wide, average hourly earnings have increased by 74 cents – 2.9 percent – over the past 12 months.  The Labor Department said the unemployment rate decreased to 4.2 percent, down from 4.4 percent in August.

About NRF
NRF is the world’s largest retail trade association, representing discount and department stores, home goods and specialty stores, Main Street merchants, grocers, wholesalers, chain restaurants and internet retailers from the United States and more than 45 countries. Retail is the nation’s largest private-sector employer, supporting one in four U.S. jobs – 42 million working Americans. Contributing $2.6 trillion to annual GDP, retail is a daily barometer for the nation’s economy.

Contact:

Robin Roberts
press@nrf.com
(855) NRF-Press

Source: NRF

Posted on by

NRF’s Shop.org conference will include keynotes from CEOs, startup founders and entertainment luminaries

WASHINGTON, 2017-Sep-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — CEOs, startup founders, top business school professors and entertainment luminaries will discuss the changing retail landscape and how digital commerce is transforming business to better engage consumers as more than 2,500 leading members of the ecommerce community gather in Los Angeles later this month for the National Retail Federation’s annual Shop.org conference.

“This year’s conference attendees will have the opportunity to learn from an unprecedented array of the most remarkable players in retail, technology, entertainment and business overall on topics that are critical to today’s transformative and dynamic retail environment,” NRF Senior Vice President for Retail Strategy Cristina Ceresoli said. “Our goal is that they walk away inspired and informed, taking with them practical skills and knowledge that are quickly translatable in their current business practices so they can continue to grow and succeed.”

The September 25-27 conference will include keynotes from industry leaders and other experts, including:

September 26:

Tyra Banks, creator, “America’s Next Top Model,” and chairwoman and CEO, The Tyra Banks Company
Michael White, senior vice president and chief technology officer, Disney Consumer Products and Interactive Media
Marc Lore, president and CEO, Walmart eCommerce U.S.
Andrew Nusca, digital editor, Fortune
Adam Goldenberg, co-founder and co-CEO, TechStyle Fashion Group
Gregg Renfrew, founder and CEO, Beautycounter
Mariam Naficy, founder and CEO, Minted
Danielle Weisberg, co-founder and co-CEO, theSkimm
Carly Zakin, co-founder and co-CEO, theSkimm

September 27:

Scott Galloway, clinical professor of marketing, New York University Stern School of Business, and founder and chairman, L2
Adam Grant, professor, University of Pennsylvania Wharton School of Business
Mindy Grossman, president and CEO, Weight Watchers International Inc.
Roger Rawlins, CEO, DSW Inc.
Rachel Blumenthal, founder and CEO, Rockets of Awesome
Tracy DiNunzio, founder and CEO, Tradesy
Graham Stanton, co-founder and senior vice president for performance marketing, Peloton
Max Levchin, founder and CEO, Affirm
James Rhee, executive chairman and CEO, Ashley Stewart, and founder and president, FirePine Group
Omar Miller, actor, producer and global director, Big Easy Productions
Kobe Bryant, five-time NBA champion, CEO, Kobe Inc., and general partner, Bryant Stibel

On September 26, feature stage speakers presented by Fast Company will include Contributing Editor Verena Von Pfetten, Thrive Market founder and Chief Strategy Officer Gunnar Lovelace, CVS Caremark Senior Vice President and Chief Digital Officer Brian Tilzer, Panera Bread Vice President for Experience Design Mark Berinato, Wayfair Next Director Mike Festa and Pinterest Head of Retail Strategy Amy Vener.

On September 27, the feature stage will include Digital Prophets Network Founder and President Elaine Rubin, Barnes & Noble, Nook Chief Digital Officer Fred Argir, Orvis Chief Information Officer and Vice President for Information and Interaction Dave Finnegan and Future Laboratory CEO Trevor Hardy.

In addition to the speakers on the main stage and feature stage, breakout sessions will provide tactical insights into ecommerce, innovation, consumer trends and more. Highlights include:

  • 7.5 Billion Bosses: Consumers are in Charge Now – Kate Ancketill, CEO and founder, GDR Creative Intelligence.
  • Going Gaga for Brands in La La Land – Nina Ojeda, columnist, Inc. Magazine; Mondy Herndon, vice president for ecommerce, TOMS; and Jane Fisher, co-founder, Harper Wilde.
  • Putting the ‘Instant’ in ‘Instant Gratification’ – Tammy Everts, chief experience officer, Speedcurve; Luke Chatelain, vice president for innovation, West Elm; and Grace Glenny, senior director for site merchandising, Target.
  • They Want It All: The Empowered Consumer – Nick Worth, chief marketing officer, Selligent; Rick Ton, director of membership and product marketing, Sam’s Club; and Benjamin Weiss, senior product manager, Walgreens.
  • Loyalty Building Strategies from Cult Brands – Rebecca Kaden, partner, Maveron; Dave Cho, co-founder and CEO, Soko Glam; Bobby Farahi, co-founder and CEO, Dolls Kill; and Joey Zwillinger, co-founder, Allbirds.
  • Not Just Mini-Millennials: What Makes Gen Z Unique – Dan Coates, president, Ypulse; Chad Kessler, global brand president, American Eagle Outfitters; and Caren Sinclair-Kay, president, Dormify.
  • Digital Sleuths: How Kohl’s is Increasing Conversion and Elevating Customer Experience – Sarah Rasmusen, vice president for digital merchandising and analytics, Kohl’s; and Jess Simpson, principal, Deloitte Consulting.
  • Viral Marketing in the YouTube Era – Shane Murphy, vice president for marketing, AdRoll; and Bryant Garvin, director of digital marketing, Purple.
  • A New Era of Retail: Advice from Venture Capitalists – James Rhee, executive chairman and CEO, Ashley Stewart, and founder and president, FirePine Group; Rebecca Kaden, partner, Maveron; Jordan Nof, head of investments, Tusk Ventures; and Hans Tung, managing partner Silicon Valley, GGV Capital.
  • Conversational Commerce and the Rise of the Robot – Healey Cypher, CEO and founder, OAK; Jennifer Tvedt, global director of project management and performance, Nike Inc.

Complimentary registration is available to editorial members of the news media as well as accredited retail analysts and bloggers. For more information, visit the Shop.org media registration page.

About NRF
NRF is the world’s largest retail trade association, representing discount and department stores, home goods and specialty stores, Main Street merchants, grocers, wholesalers, chain restaurants and internet retailers from the United States and more than 45 countries. Retail is the nation’s largest private sector employer, supporting one in four U.S. jobs – 42 million working Americans. Contributing $2.6 trillion to annual GDP, retail is a daily barometer for the nation’s economy.

Contact:

Ana Serafin Smith
(202) 626-8189
press@nrf.com
(855) NRF-Press

Source: NRF

Posted on by

CBRE expands role of GWS Executive Managing Director Karen Ellzey to include Co-Executive Sponsor of LGBT & Allies

Los Angeles, 2017-Sep-22 — /EPR Retail News/ — CBRE today (September 20, 2017) announced that Karen Ellzey, CBRE Executive Managing Director, Global Workplace Solutions (GWS), has taken a leadership role for LGBT & Allies. Ms. Ellzey will serve as the Co-Executive Sponsor of the company’s employee network group.

Founded in 2009, LGBT & Allies is a group dedicated to supporting our LGBT community while influencing CBRE diversity and inclusion practices. Since launching the group, LGBT & Allies has grown to 300 employees.

Ms. Ellzey will work with Chris Ludeman, Capital Markets Global President and Co-Executive Sponsor to LGBT & Allies. Together they will support the LGBT & Allies leadership team on all their aspirations for the group.

“Karen has an outstanding history as a leader within our company. She has a reputation for getting things done and at the same time has a passion for diversity and inclusion topics,” says Mr. Ludeman. “I am confident she’ll bring the same excellence to her expanded role with LGBT & Allies.”

With 17 years at CBRE and over 20 years of experience in the real estate industry, Ms. Ellzey is a recognized thought leader. For GWS, she oversees client strategy and consulting, business analytics, the CBRE Institute, the Building Innovation Lab, and marketing and communications, in addition to supporting numerous strategic initiatives. She and her team specialize in corporate real estate organization design and delivery models, process design and optimization, business analytics, and occupancy cost solutions for public and private-sector clients. Their work includes consulting engagements, workshops, and innovation activities focused on helping clients define strategic priorities, identify improved solutions and implement new delivery models and methods that result in superior outcomes.

“The LGBT & Allies leadership team has created a strong foundation over the years and I look forward to supporting their progress and positive impacts. This group and its members have the potential to influence many professional lives at CBRE,” says Ms. Ellzey.

Additional information about diversity and inclusion practices at CBRE can be found at https://www.cbre.us/about/careers/diversity.

About CBRE Group, Inc.
CBRE Group, Inc. (NYSE:CBG), a Fortune 500 and S&P 500 company headquartered in Los Angeles, is the world’s largest commercial real estate services and investment firm (based on 2016 revenue). The company has more than 75,000 employees (excluding affiliates), and serves real estate investors and occupiers through approximately 450 offices (excluding affiliates) worldwide. CBRE offers a broad range of integrated services, including facilities, transaction and project management; property management; investment management; appraisal and valuation; property leasing; strategic consulting; property sales; mortgage services and development services. Please visit our website at www.cbre.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Robert McGrath
212.984.8267
robert.mcgrath@cbre.com

SOURCE: CBRE Group, Inc.

Posted on by

BRP: consumers expect quick access to products and most retailers respond by offering same day delivery

According to the 2017 Digital Commerce Survey, Autonomous Fulfillment is the Next Step in Delivery as Self-driving Vehicles and Helper Robots Become More Prevalent

Boston, MA, 2017-Sep-22 — /EPR Retail News/ — According to a new report from BRP, consumers expect quick access to products and most retailers are now responding by offering same day delivery. Currently, 51% of retailers indicate they offer same day delivery, up from 16% last year, and within two years 65% plan to offer this service. Delivery via a third party service, such as Uber or Lyft has also increased (from 20% last year to 32% this year) as retailers look at different ways to offer customers the flexibility to shop, purchase and receive their goods on their own terms.

“With Amazon offering same day delivery in some markets, the push is on for retailers to get items delivered to customers as soon as possible,” said Jeffrey Neville, vice president at BRP. “Autonomous delivery and distribution are the next step with self-driving vehicles soon a reality and a few food delivery start-ups already testing the concept.”

Consumer behavior and mobile technology are dramatically changing the traditional retail model. Amazon continues to disrupt retail as it delves deeper into brick-and-mortar with the acquisition of Whole Foods. Meanwhile, bankruptcies and store closures make daily headlines, as the phrase ‘retail apocalypse’ becomes the topic of many conversations. These developments dictate retailers’ necessity to adapt to the new customer journey to accommodate the blurred lines of retail and innovative methods of shopping driven by mobile technology, artificial intelligence and rapidly changing fulfillment methods. To succeed, retailers may need to reinvent themselves to create an effective blend of the physical and digital worlds to maintain customer loyalty.

BRP conducted the 2017 Digital Commerce Benchmark Survey to understand the current retail challenges and the available opportunities for retailers as they face the future of retail. The key customer imperatives are:

  • Personal – Combining behavioral, historical and customer profile data empowers retailers to deliver tailored and relevant content to meet customers’ individual needs. 38% of retailers indicate that improving personalization is a top digital customer experience priority.
  • Ubiquitous – Customer expectations for a personalized, seamless experience require retailers to  follow customers’ journeys as they research and shop from anywhere. 49% of retailers will offer customers the ability to ‘start anywhere, finish anywhere’ within five years.
  • Unified – Retailers’ technology, processes and organization need to be unified and aligned across channels to offer a seamless and consistent customer experience. 54% of retailers indicate that creating a consistent brand experience across channels is a top priority.

To download the complete 2017 Digital Commerce Benchmark Survey, visit: https://brpconsulting.com/2017-digital-commerce-survey/.

The 2017 Customer Experience/ Unified Commerce Benchmark Survey platinum sponsor is Manhattan Associates and the gold sponsors are ECRS, Mi9 Retail, NCR, and Radial.

About BRP

BRP is an innovative retail management consulting firm dedicated to providing superior service and enduring value to our clients. BRP combines its consultants’ deep retail business knowledge and cross-functional capabilities to deliver superior design and implementation of strategy, technology, and process solutions. The firm’s unique combination of industry focus, knowledge-based approach, and rapid, end-to-end solution deployment helps clients to achieve their business potential. BRP’s consulting services include:

Strategy | Business Intelligence | Business Process Optimization | Point of Sale (POS)
Mobile POS | Payment Security | E-Commerce | Store Systems and Operations | CRM
Unified Commerce | Customer Experience | Order Management | Networks
Merchandise Management | Supply Chain | Private Equity

For more information on BRP, visit http://www.brpconsulting.com.

Source: BRP

Posted on by

BRC analysis spells out potential cost to shoppers of leaving the EU without a tariff-free trade deal

London, 2017-Sep-19 — /EPR Retail News/ — The outcomes of the Brexit negotiations are hugely important to the UK’s retail and food production industries. The UK is a net importer of food – 40 per cent of the food we eat comes from outside the UK, with around a third from the EU-27 alone. In comparison, only 12 per cent of the UK’s non- food imports come from the EU. People in the UK spend around £201 billion a year on food and non-alcoholic drinks.

In April the BRC’s Tariff Roadmap highlighted the need to put UK consumers at the heart of the Brexit negotiations to protect them from the costs of unwanted new tariffs, particularly when it comes to food bills.

Modern food retail relies on complex but responsive supply chains to ensure that customers get the products they want year round, at consistently good quality, and at competitive prices. This is dependent upon us being able to source food across national borders to supplement food production in the UK, without tariffs and unaffected by non-tariff barriers to trade. The alternative, a no-deal Brexit, would mean defaulting to a system which could raise food tariffs by 22 per cent on average.

Helen Dickinson OBE, Chief Executive of the BRC said:

“At a time when household income is already squeezed by inflation and wage growth moving in opposite directions, it’s of the utmost importance that the Government does all it can in the trading negotiations, to limit any further cost increases that could further adversely impact the finances of the UK’s consumers.”

The Tariff Roadmap makes the case for transitional measures to ensure that tariff-free trade continues after the UK’s exit from the EU in March 2019. This is important to avoid rising costs and provide greater certainty for consumers and businesses. Achieving as frictionless trade as possible with the EU will help to keep prices down and maintain greater choice and food security for consumers. Perishable food has a short shelf-life and getting it through the food supply chain in a timely manner requires as little disruption as possible at every stage of the process, including at our ports.

Avoiding a no deal Brexit is key. The BRC will work with government to secure a fair Brexit for consumers by ensuring prices remain low and choice and confidence remains high.

Read IFS Study: How might Brexit affect food prices?

Source: BRC

Posted on by

BRC: Overall Shop Price deflation was 0.3 per cent in August

London, 2017-Aug-30 — /EPR Retail News/ —

BRC – NIELSEN SHOP PRICE INDEX – August 2017

Period Covered: 07 – 11 August 2017

  • Overall Shop Price deflation was 0.3 per cent in August, a slight deceleration from the 0.4 per cent fall in July. Except for June of this year, this is the shallowest deflation rate since November 2013.
  • The deflation rate for prices of Non-Food products was 1.3 per cent, the slowest rate of deflation since April 2013. Electronics posted the slowest rate of deflation on record (the SPI started in 2006).
  • Food prices increased by 1.3 per cent in August on the same month last year, a slight increase on July, when Food price inflation stood at 1.2 per cent.
  • This is the second month we have seen an easing in the inflation rate of Fresh Food. It slowed to 0.8 per cent in August from 1.0 per cent in July.
  • In contrast, the inflation rate of Ambient Food prices accelerated to 1.9 per cent in August from 1.6 per cent in July. This is the highest inflation rate for Ambient Food since December 2013.

Helen Dickinson OBE, Chief Executive, British Retail Consortium:

“Non-Food deflation reached its lowest rate in more than four years in August as overall Shop Prices edged closer to inflation.

“The reality is that with protection from hedging policies coming to an end, Non-Food retailers are running out of options for protecting shoppers from the significant increases in the price of imported goods since the EU referendum in June last year. We expect Non-Food prices to continue trending towards year on year inflation.

“Food inflation also moved upward, driven by an acceleration of Ambient Food inflation, although the slowdown in Fresh Food inflation for a second month kept a lid on overall increases in the price of the weekly grocery shop. The seasonal availability of fruit and vegetables from UK suppliers is currently shielding shoppers from the impact of higher import prices. However, as Winter approaches and our dependence shifts to imported goods, that will change.

“While the dynamics of individual elements of the index play out in different ways from month to month, the fact is that the overall pressures on prices are still weighted upwards. That will put an increasing strain on already stretched family budgets. Therefore, it is imperative that the Government puts the UK’s households at the top of its agenda as it enters into negotiations on our future trading relationship with the EU. It should do all it can to avoid a situation where further tariffs and administrative costs lead to price increases on top of those already being faced by consumers.”

Mike Watkins, Head of Retailer and Business Insight, Nielsen:

” Food inflation continues to be kept in check by lower increases in fresh and seasonal  foods and as fresh is typically over 40% of the shopper spend in supermarkets, this is helping to offset the rising cost of living in household bills. Whilst consumer sentiment is on the turn and shoppers are becoming cautious about spending on big ticket items, prices are still very competitive on the high street and spend on food and drink has been strong over the summer, albeit disrupted by the changeable weather in August ”

Contact:
BRC Press Office
TELEPHONE: + 44 (0) 20 7854 8924
EMAIL: media@brc.org.uk
OUT OF HOURS: +44 (0) 7557 747 269

Source: BRC

Posted on by

NRF forecast: families will spend $83.6 billion on back-to-school this year

WASHINGTON, 2017-Aug-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — Even though more parents started back-to-school shopping early this year, many families still have a lot of shopping left to do as they prepare their children for the start of school. According to the National Retail Federation’s annual survey conducted by Prosper Insights & Analytics, the average family with children in grades K-12 had completed only 45 percent of their shopping as of early August. That’s down from a peak of 52 percent at the same time in 2013 and 48 percent last year, and the lowest level since 40 percent in 2012.

“Parents this year have been taking longer than usual to finish buying the clothing and supplies their children need for school,” NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay said. “Many kids are already getting on the bus and millions more will be back in class in another week or two, so anybody who hasn’t finished shopping by now is cutting it close. Retailers have some great bargains to offer, but parents better take advantage of them before the school bell rings.”

Of parents surveyed August 1-9, only 13 percent had completed all their shopping, and 23 percent had not started at all. The results come even though the number of parents who planned to start shopping at least two months before the beginning of school was up this year at 27 percent, compared with 22 percent last year.

NRF has forecast that families will spend $83.6 billion on back-to-school this year, including $29.5 billion on K-12 and $54.1 billion on college.

Among K-12 parents, 79 percent said they still needed to buy basic supplies such as pencils and paper, up from 77 percent at the same time last year, followed by 75 percent who needed to buy apparel, up from 70 percent; 58 percent still needed to buy shoes, up from 57 percent.

To wrap up their buying, 55 percent planned to head to department stores, 49 percent to discount stores, 39 percent to clothing stores, 35 percent to office supply stores and 33 percent online.

When deciding where to shop, 41 percent said they are influenced by coupons, down from 48 percent last year and the lowest in the survey’s history. But 33 percent said they would leverage in-store promotions and 29 percent said they would be influenced by newspaper advertising inserts. For those who’ve already started shopping, 43 percent of their purchases were influenced by coupons, sales and promotions.

The survey found that 61 percent of school supply purchases were influenced by school requirements, down from 64 percent last year. Similarly, 41 percent of electronics purchases were dictated by what schools required, down from 45 percent.

But even though those numbers were down, school requirements still play a significant role in how families go about their shopping.

“Similar to recent years, some of the big-ticket items are being significantly influenced by school requirements,” Prosper Principal Analyst Pam Goodfellow said. “That is why we are seeing many parents take their time in tackling their lists so they can take advantage of any special promotions that can help them save on items such as laptops and computers.”

College Shopping
Overall results for college students were largely the same, with students and their parents saying they, too, had completed 45 percent of their shopping, down from 48 percent last year. That was down from a peak of 54 percent at the same time in 2014 and the lowest level since 44 percent in 2011. Only 12 percent had completed all their shopping and 26 percent had not started at all.

According to the survey, 61 percent still needed to purchase school supplies, followed by clothing (51 percent) and shoes (33 percent).

The survey found college consumers will likely complete the rest of their shopping online (41 percent), at discount or department stores (38 percent each), college bookstores (32 percent) and clothing stores (31 percent).

Coupons and promotions are influencing consumers with back-to-college purchases: 41 percent may use coupons; 30 percent could take advantage of in-store promotions and 28 percent are influenced by word of mouth. For those who have already made purchases, 46 percent were influenced by promotions, down from 50 percent last year.

The survey asked 7,248 consumers about both back-to-school and back-to-college shopping plans. It was conducted August 1-9 and has a margin of error of plus or minus 1.2 percentage points.

About Prosper Insights & Analytics
Prosper Insights & Analytics is a global leader in consumer intent data serving the financial services, marketing technology, and retail industries. We provide global authoritative market information on US and China consumers via curated insights and analytics. By integrating a variety of data including economic, behavioral and attitudinal data, Prosper helps companies accurately predict consumers’ future behavior to help identify market behaviors, optimize marketing efforts, and improve the effectiveness of demand generation campaigns. www.ProsperInsights.com

About NRF
NRF is the world’s largest retail trade association, representing discount and department stores, home goods and specialty stores, Main Street merchants, grocers, wholesalers, chain restaurants and internet retailers from the United States and more than 45 countries. Retail is the nation’s largest private sector employer, supporting one in four U.S. jobs – 42 million working Americans. Contributing $2.6 trillion to annual GDP, retail is a daily barometer for the nation’s economy.

Contact:
Ana Serafin Smith
(202) 626-8189
press@nrf.com
(855) NRF-Press

Source: NRF

Posted on by

UK unemployment rate to fall to just 4.4% in Q2 2017; the lowest rate since 1975

London, 2017-Aug-17 — /EPR Retail News/ — Figures released today (August 16, 2017) by the ONS show a fall in the UK unemployment rate to just 4.4% in the second quarter of this year, which is the lowest rate since 1975. In absolute terms this equates to an extra 125,000 people in employment since the first quarter of 2017.

Nominal wage growth has picked up to 2.1%, after several months of slowing. However, the effects of inflation over this period of 2.6% leaves real wages in negative territory, down 0.5% on last year. This means consumer spending power is still being squeezed –  not great news for retailers who are facing challenges on many fronts.The pick-up in wage growth is a positive sign, and with the number of unemployed per job vacancy also falling in recent months, economic theory would suggest that pressures on wages in future will be upwards. However recent history has showed us that reality can defy economic models. A combination of job creation in less productive areas of the economy, increases in flexible working contracts and technology weakening bargaining power of workers have led to slowing wage growth despite a tightening labour market. So it may be too early to call an end to the real wage squeeze. We will have to wait and see.

Contact:
BRC Press Office
TELEPHONE: + 44 (0) 20 7854 8924
EMAIL: media@brc.org.uk
OUT OF HOURS: +44 (0) 7557 747 269

Source: BRC

Posted on by

RILA opens applications for its first annual (R)Tech Retail CEO Innovation Awards

Arlington , VA, 2017-Aug-17 — /EPR Retail News/ — ​The Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA), the trade association for America’s most recognized and innovative retail brands, announced its call for applications for its first annual (R)Tech Retail CEO Innovation Awards.

“As today’s top retail leaders gather at RILA’s CEO Forum, this will be the perfect opportunity to showcase new technologies that are transforming the industry,” said Sandy Kennedy, President of RILA. “To move the industry into the future, our awards program will focus on technologies that create ultra-personal and ubiquitous shopping experiences. By streamlining the path to purchase, retailers are listening to the wants of consumers and creating seamless experiences, integrating the physical with digital. We look forward to connecting America’s retailers with industry innovators.”

The Awards will highlight innovations that enable retail’s future. Winners will be invited to showcase, pitch and network with the most powerful retail chief executives at RILA’s annual Retail CEO Forum January 21-23 in Tucson, AZ.

Applicants should focus their innovations on advancing Ubiquitous and Ultra-Personal Shopping, that is, shopping that will be invisible and ubiquitous, embedded into natural gestures and conversation, managed through a connected ecosystem, and considering all channels and all customers. The (R)Tech Center believes that this trend is driving change in the industry more than any other.

Applications are due on September 8. Learn more and apply at www.rtech.org/awards.

RILA is the trade association of the world’s largest and most innovative retail companies. RILA members include more than 200 retailers, product manufacturers, and service suppliers, which together account for more than $1.5 trillion in annual sales, millions of American jobs and more than 100,000 stores, manufacturing facilities and distribution centers domestically and abroad.

Contact:
Christin Fernandez
Vice President, Communications
Phone: 703-600-2039
Email: christin.fernandez@rila.org

Source: RILA

Posted on by

Australian Retailers Association releases the #StateOfXmas 2016 report

Melbourne, Australia, 2017-Aug-16 — /EPR Retail News/ — With Christmas 2017 fast approaching, the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) are proud to release the findings from the #StateOfXmas 2016 report. The ARA have partnered with Temando to discover how retailers are tapping into the benefits of shipping and fulfilment technology to excel over the Christmas trading period.

The #StateOfXmas report produced a number of findings. One key message from the report identified how a lack of innovation and unavailability of in-demand shipping options currently cause friction in the online shopper’s journey, which severely impacts the performance of Australian retailers over the festive season.

With sales in the 2016 Christmas period declining 0.1 percent against a forecast rise of 0.3 percent, #StateOfXmas comes just in time for the 2017 holidays.

ARA Executive Director Russell Zimmerman said the report highlights an opportunity for retailers to embrace change, especially in the face of increasing online competition locally and abroad.

“Traditional systems and out-dated processes are crippling many retailers – preventing them from providing seamless end-to-end shopping experiences to the multitude of consumers in a cost-effective manner,” Mr Zimmerman said.

“As Christmas is the biggest trading period of the year, it is important that retailers re-think their shipping and fulfillment strategies to give them a competitive edge.”

The #StateOfXmas report found that despite consistently high demand from shoppers, a lack of variety in shipping options is leading to an increase in cart abandonment. However, retailers who succeeded in improving their shipping and fulfillment processes enjoyed a range of benefits including better customer satisfaction, operational efficiency and conversions.

Temando’s Vice President of Marketing, Hamish Grant said those retailers who improved their shipping and fulfilment practices will reap the rewards from the 2017 Christmas trading period.

“Last-minute shoppers need to know that their holiday orders will arrive in time, but only 2 percent of retailers provided extended after-hours or weekend delivery over this period,” Mr Grant said.

“Standard cut off times are already limiting Christmas transactions, so retailers focused on capitalising on this season must offer quick, easy and fast shipping options that work for every type of shopper.”

Mr Zimmerman echoed Mr Grant’s comments and said the #StateOfXmas results speak for themselves.

“Retailers will enhance their profit margins when they improve their shipping and fulfilment practices. These wins will not only extend customer lifetime value, they’re absolutely essential for survival,” Mr Zimmerman said.

To download a copy of the #StateOfXmas report please click here.

About the Australian Retailers Association:

Founded in 1903, the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) is the retail industry’s peak representative body representing Australia’s $310 billion sector, which employs more than 1.2 million people. The ARA works to ensure retail success by informing, protecting, advocating, educating and saving money for its 7,000 independent and national retail members throughout Australia. For more information, visit www.retail.org.au or call 1300 368 041.

For interview opportunities with ARA Executive Director Russell Zimmermancall the ARA Media Line on 0439 612 556, or emailmedia@retail.org.au

Source: Australian Retailers Association (ARA)

Posted on by

NRF/Hackett Associates Global Port Tracker report: August is expected to be the busiest month on record for imports

WASHINGTON, 2017-Aug-10 — /EPR Retail News/ — Boosted by continuing sales growth, August is expected to be the busiest month on record for imports at the nation’s major retail container ports and 2017 is on track to set a new annual high, according to the monthly Global Port Tracker report released today (August 9, 2017) by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates.

“Retailers are selling more and that means they need to import more,” NRF Vice President for Supply Chain and Customs Policy Jonathan Gold said. “With sales showing year-over-year increases almost every month for a long time now, retail supply chains are working hard to keep up. These latest numbers are a good sign of what retailers expect in terms of consumer demand over the next few months.”

Ports covered by Global Port Tracker handled 1.69 million Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units in June, the latest month for which after-the-fact numbers are available. That was down 2 percent from May but up 7.5 percent from June 2016. July was estimated at 1.72 million TEU, up 5.6 percent from the same time last year. One TEU is one 20-foot-long cargo container or its equivalent.

August is forecast at 1.75 million TEU, up 2.1 percent from last year. That would be the highest monthly volume recorded since NRF began tracking imports in 2000, topping the 1.73 million TEU seen in March 2015. The 1.7 million-plus numbers seen in May and July and now expected for August and October would represent four of the six busiest months in the report’s history.

September is forecast at 1.67 million TEU, up 4.7 percent from last year; October at 1.72 million TEU, up 3 percent; November at 1.62 million TEU, down 1.4 percent, and December at 1.59 million TEU, up 1.5 percent.

Those numbers would bring 2017 to a total of 19.7 million TEU, topping last year’s previous record of 18.8 million TEU by 4.9 percent. That compares with 2016’s 3.1 percent increase over 2015. While July numbers are not yet final, the first half of 2017 tentatively totaled 9.7 million TEU, up 7.4 percent from the same period in 2016.

The import numbers come as retail continues a long-term pattern of increased sales. Total retail sales have grown year-over-year every month since November 2009, and retail sales as calculated by NRF – excluding automobiles, gasoline stations and restaurants – have increased year-over-year in all but three months since the beginning of 2010. Retail employment, despite recent short-term fluctuations, has increased by 1.5 million jobs during the same period.

NRF has forecast that 2017 retail sales – excluding automobiles, gasoline and restaurants – will increase between 3.7 and 4.2 percent over 2016, driven by job and income growth coupled with low debt. Cargo volume does not correlate directly with sales because only the number of containers is counted, not the value of the cargo inside, but nonetheless provides a barometer of retailers’ expectations.

Hackett Associates Founder Ben Hackett noted that U.S. gross domestic product grew 2.6 percent in the second quarter of this year, more than double the 1.2 percent seen in the first quarter.

“This relatively strong growth underlies the robust level of imports we have forecast and witnessed,” Hackett said.

Global Port Tracker, which is produced for NRF by the consulting firm Hackett Associates, covers the U.S. ports of Los Angeles/Long Beach, Oakland, Seattle and Tacoma on the West Coast; New York/New Jersey, Hampton Roads, Charleston, Savannah, Port Everglades and Miami on the East Coast, and Houston on the Gulf Coast. The report is free to NRF retail members, and subscription information is available at www.nrf.com/PortTracker or by calling (202) 783-7971. Subscription information for non-members can be found at www.globalporttracker.com.

NRF is the world’s largest retail trade association, representing discount and department stores, home goods and specialty stores, Main Street merchants, grocers, wholesalers, chain restaurants and Internet retailers from the United States and more than 45 countries. Retail is the nation’s largest private sector employer, supporting one in four U.S. jobs – 42 million working Americans. Contributing $2.6 trillion to annual GDP, retail is a daily barometer for the nation’s economy. NRF.com

Hackett Associates provides expert consulting, research and advisory services to the international maritime industry, government agencies and international institutions. www.hackettassociates.com

Contact:
J. Craig Shearman
(202) 626-8134
press@nrf.com
(855) NRF-Press

Source: NRF

Posted on by

ARA: NSW Boxing Day trade legislation is great news for retailers

Melbourne, Australia, 2017-Aug-10 — /EPR Retail News/ — The Australian Retailers Association (ARA) applauds the NSW Government in moving to legislate Boxing Day trade across all parts of NSW after it was welcomed by retailers, employees and consumers during a two-year trial.

An independent review with comprehensive feedback from business owners, employees and shoppers has revealed this legislation will level the playing field for retailers who were previously prohibited from taking part in the Boxing Day sales simply because of their location.

ARA Executive Director Russell Zimmerman said this announcement is great news for NSW retailers as Boxing Day is one of the busiest trading days of the year.

“Consumers want to shop on Boxing Day, and retailers want to trade, it’s as simple as that,” Mr Zimmerman said.

“Giving NSW retailers an opportunity to trade on this public holiday not only gives retailers a chance to increase their sales it allows physical stores to compete with online and interstate retailers.”

As the retail sector is the largest private industry employer, the ARA believes this decision is also great news for NSW retail staff.

“Allowing Boxing Day trade in all areas of NSW gives retailers the opportunity to roster volunteer staff on one of the biggest trading days of the year,” Mr Zimmerman said.

“Public holiday rates are a great way for employees to earn money and increasing trading hours for NSW retailers significantly reduces underemployment.”

This legislation aligns with the ARA’s submission to the NSW Government which supports deregulated trading hours on Boxing Day and will be introduced in the coming months.

The ARA will work with retailers and their employees to ensure they are fully aware of their rights ahead of Boxing Day this year.

About the Australian Retailers Association:

Founded in 1903, the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) is the retail industry’s peak representative body representing Australia’s $310 billion sector, which employs more than 1.2 million people. The ARA works to ensure retail success by informing, protecting, advocating, educating and saving money for its 7,000 independent and national retail members throughout Australia. For more information, visit www.retail.org.au or call 1300 368 041.

For interview opportunities with ARA Executive Director, Russell Zimmerman, call the ARA Media team on 0439 612 556 or email media@retail.org.au.

Source: ARA

Posted on by

SNAC International announced as pavilion partner for the 2018 NGA Show

Trade association representing international snack industry to showcase 600 square foot pavilion of snack manufacturers and marketers

ARLINGTON, VA, 2017-Aug-09 — /EPR Retail News/ — The National Grocers Association, the trade association representing the independent supermarket industry, today (August 8, 2017) announced SNAC International, the trade association representing the snack industry, will be a pavilion partner for the first time at the 2018 NGA Show, held February 11-14 at the Mirage Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nev.

SNAC International will showcase a 600 square foot pavilion on the EXPO floor featuring manufacturers of a wide variety of snacks, including classic snack products as well as better-for-you options.  Products include potato chips, tortilla chips, puffed snacks, pretzels and popcorn to meat and fruit snacks, snack nuts and crackers.  Ingredients range from traditional potato and corn-based snacks to those made with pulses (chick peas, lentils), vegetables and ancient grains.

“With snacking now accounting for half of all eating occasions, we’re excited to provide the unique opportunity for independent retailers to explore a diverse set of exhibitors in this growing segment of the food industry,” said Peter J. Larkin, president and CEO of NGA. “The pavilion promises to help attendees stay ahead of the consumer trend curve by bringing new and exciting snack products to their store shelf.”

“With the snack category rapidly evolving, SNAC International members are seeking new opportunities to showcase their products in front of prospective consumers. The NGA Show is a perfect opportunity for our members, many of whom are smaller businesses, to share information about their products with members of the dynamic independent grocery sector,” said Elizabeth Avery, president & CEO, SNAC International.  “We are thrilled to offer the opportunity for our member companies to scale their presence by uniting under the Snack Pavilion at the NGA Show.”

The 2017 NGA Show opened with 3,400 registered attendees, making it the seventh consecutive year of record-breaking attendance levels. Last year’s sold-out EXPO floor included over 325 exhibitors in various categories such as produce, meat, technology, craft beers, general merchandise, ethnic food products, and health, wellness, and beauty product sectors. The overwhelming majority of attendees – 97 percent – felt the EXPO floor was important to their experience at The NGA Show, and 96 percent of retailers and wholesalers present visited the EXPO floor. For more information on The NGA Show, visit www.theNGAshow.com.

About NGA
The National Grocers Association (NGA) is the national trade association representing the retail and wholesale grocers that comprise the independent sector of the food distribution industry. An independent retailer is a privately owned or controlled food retail company operating a variety of formats. The independent grocery sector is accountable for close to one percent of the nation’s overall economy and is responsible for generating $131 billion in sales, 944,000 jobs, $30 billion in wages, and $27 billion in taxes. NGA members include retail and wholesale grocers, state grocers associations, as well as manufacturers and service suppliers. For more information about NGA, visit www.nationalgrocers.org.

About SNAC International
Founded in 1937, SNAC International (formerly Snack Food Association) is the leading international trade association for the snack industry.  SNAC International represents over 400 companies worldwide, including snack industry suppliers, marketers and manufacturers in both the traditional and emerging snack categories. SNAC is committed to providing premier educational resources, connection opportunities, and advocacy for the ever-evolving snack industry. For more information about SNAC International, visit www.snacintl.org.

Source: NGA

Posted on by

NRF: Retail industry employment declined slightly in July, decreasing 1,700 jobs from June

WASHINGTON, 2017-Aug-07 — /EPR Retail News/ — Retail industry employment declined slightly in July, decreasing 1,700 jobs from June, the National Retail Federation said today. The numbers exclude automobile dealers, gasoline stations and restaurants. The economy overall saw gains of 209,000 jobs in July, exceeding growth expectations for the month.

“Overall job and wage growth are positive indicators for the retail industry since it means consumers have more money to spend when they come into stores or shop online,” NRF Chief Economist Jack Kleinhenz said. “Of note, the oft-maligned department store sector has had two consecutive months of job increases. With back-to-school shopping ramping up and the holiday season just around the corner, retailers will only be busier in the weeks and months ahead.”

On a three-month average, retail jobs have decreased by 4,200 jobs as calculated by NRF using current government data.

Kleinhenz noted that retail job numbers reported by the Labor Department don’t paint an entirely accurate picture of the industry because they count only employees who work in stores while excluding retail workers in other parts of the business like corporate headquarters, distribution centers, call centers and innovation labs.

While the sporting goods sector saw decreased employment in July, department stores, building materials and supply stores, and health and personal care stores all saw job gains. Department store employment has increased for the past two months, with June and July gaining a combined total of 6,000 jobs. The increase in health and personal care employment was a reversal of June’s decline in jobs.

Economy-wide, average hourly earnings in July grew 2.5 percent year-over-year, keeping pace with the increase in June. The Labor Department said July unemployment was at 4.3 percent, down from 4.4 percent in June.

About NRF
NRF is the world’s largest retail trade association, representing discount and department stores, home goods and specialty stores, Main Street merchants, grocers, wholesalers, chain restaurants and internet retailers from the United States and more than 45 countries. Retail is the nation’s largest private sector employer, supporting one in four U.S. jobs – 42 million working Americans. Contributing $2.6 trillion to annual GDP, retail is a daily barometer for the nation’s economy.

Contact:
Robin Roberts
press@nrf.com
(855) NRF-Press

Source: NRF

Posted on by

RILA congratulates Marvin Kaplan on his appointment to the National Labor Relations Board

Arlington , VA, 2017-Aug-04 — /EPR Retail News/ — Today (8/2/2017), the Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) congratulated Marvin Kaplan on his appointment to the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). RILA’s Vice President of Government Affairs Evan Armstrong issued the following statement:

“RILA congratulates Marvin Kaplan on the approval of his nomination to the NLRB. Marvin has a deep knowledge of the law and an ability to balance the interests of employees and employers. Retail supports more than 42 million American jobs and as RILA members are our some of our nation’s largest employers, a full and complete NLRB has been one of our top priorities. We thank Senate leadership for a seamless nomination process.”

RILA is the trade association of the world’s largest and most innovative retail companies. RILA members include more than 200 retailers, product manufacturers, and service suppliers, which together account for more than $1.5 trillion in annual sales, millions of American jobs and more than 100,000 stores, manufacturing facilities and distribution centers domestically and abroad.

Contact:

Christin Fernandez
Vice President, Communications
Phone: 703-600-5039
Email: christin.fernandez@rila.org

Source: RILA

Posted on by

ARA: Officeworks wins 2017 eftpos Australian Retailer of the Year title

Melbourne, Australia, 2017-Aug-04 — /EPR Retail News/ — Australia’s extraordinary retailers have been crowned today (3 August 2017) at the Australian Retailers Association’s (ARA) 2017 eftpos Australian Retail Awards, with Officeworks taking out the coveted eftpos Australian Retailer of the Year title.

In an exceptional field of remarkable retailers, Officeworks have grown into Australia’s largest supplier of office and stationery products. As a true category-killer, this outstanding retailer has climbed to the pinnacle of the industry, dominating the $12 billion market sector.

With this prestigious award being the hardest on record to judge, the ARA reimagined the 2017 selection process to ensure this year’s methodology was not only credible but intellectually sound.

Russell Zimmerman, ARA Executive Director, said the unique process included three pillars of in-depth research to determine the 2017 Retailer of the Year Award.

“As the retail industry’s peak representative body, it is important that we recognise and celebrate these remarkable retailers’ success on the national stage that is the 2017 eftpos ARA Australian Retail Awards,” Mr Zimmerman said.

“The exceptionally high standard of submissions we received this year was a profound reminder of the vibrant passion that encapsulates the retail industry.”

eftpos Managing Director, Bruce Mansfield, said eftpos was proud to support the Awards because they recognised the extraordinary work done by the hundreds of thousands of retailers who serve Australian communities every single day.

“Retail is an exceptionally important industry because it impacts all of our daily lives,” Mr Mansfield said.

“With the rise of international marketplaces, mobile platforms and the dynamic needs of modern shoppers, it will be extraordinary Australian retailers who continue to thrive in the shifting retail landscape.”

This year’s breakfast event was held at the National Gallery of Victoria with esteemed ABC journalist Beverley O’Connor hosting the Awards. Radek Sali of Swisse also entertained the 550 guests by sharing his incredible retail success as keynote speaker.

With 10 awards up for grabs at the Awards breakfast, the 2017 winners stood out from the retail crowd in each of their categories.

Mr Zimmerman said the overarching lesson from this year’s winners is both profound and powerful as the high standard of submissions and the quality of entries to the 2017 eftpos ARA Australian Retail Awards proved the retail sector’s strength and resilience.

“The future prosperity of the Australian industry doesn’t lie in the challenges themselves, it lies in how we choose to embrace them to move retail forward.”

2017 eftpos ARA AUSTRALIAN RETAIL AWARDS WINNERS

EFTPOS RETAILER OF THE YEAR
WINNER: OFFICEWORKS
RUNNERS UP: DAN MURPHY’S, BUNNINGS WAREHOUSE, JB HIFI, ALDI AUSTRALIA, IKEAEFTPOS INDEPENDENT RETAILER OF THE YEAR
WINNER: THE PARTY PEOPLE
RUNNER UP: NIMBLE ACTIVEWEAR

FRONTLINE RETAIL EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR
WINNER: ALDI AUSTRALIA
RUNNER UP: PEREGRINE CORPORATION

PRONTO SOFTWARE RETAIL DISRUPTOR OF THE YEAR
WINNER: AIRBNB AUSTRALIA
RUNNER UP: CRUST GOURMET PIZZA BAR

TEMANDO OMNI-CHANNEL RETAILER OF THE YEAR
WINNER: EB GAMES
RUNNER UP: PETSTOCK

SHOP-FOR-SHOPS RETAIL STORE FIT-OUT OF THE YEAR 1-5 STORE
WINNER: NIMBLE ACTIVEWEAR
RUNNER UP: LUC HOMEWARES AND DESIGNSHOP-FOR-SHOPS RETAIL STORE FIT-OUT OF THE YEAR 6+ STORE
WINNER: READINGS DONCASTER & READINGS KIDS
RUNNER UP: AMART FURNITUREREST INDUSTRY SUPER INDIVIDUAL RETAILER OF THE YEAR
WINNER: DEAN SALAKAS, THE PARTY PEOPLE
RUNNER UP: KELSEY SUBRITSKY, PANDORA

THE REALISE GROUP PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD
WINNER: MYER
RUNNER UP: BUNNINGS WAREHOUSE

ARA RETAIL INSTITUTE CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY AWARD
WINNER: HILL STREET

FCB GROUP RETAIL HR RISING STAR OF THE YEAR
WINNER: SHALYSSE ROMER, HUGO BOSS

2017 ARA RETAIL HALL OF FAME AWARD
WINNER: WILSON RETAIL

About the eftpos ARA Australian Retail Awards:

First held in the 1970s, the eftpos ARA Australian Retail Awards are the nation’s longest running and most prestigious retail event, recognising and rewarding outstanding retail businesses, innovations, and individuals across all sectors of retail. Relaunched in 2008, the annual 2017 eftpos ARA Australian Retail Awards breakfast will commence on Thursday 3 August at Melbourne’s National Gallery of Victoria.

About the Australian Retailers Association:

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

For interview opportunities contact the ARA Media team on 0439 612 556 or email media@retail.org.au.

Source: Australian Retailers Association