Category Archives: Vending

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Walgreens Boots Alliance to purchase AmerisourceBergen common stock by exercising 2nd tranche of warrants

DEERFIELD, Ill., 2016-Aug-27 — /EPR Retail News/ — Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. (Nasdaq: WBA) today (25 August 2016) announced that it had agreed with AmerisourceBergen Corporation (NYSE: ABC) to amend the second tranche of warrants held by Walgreens Boots Alliance to purchase AmerisourceBergen common stock, so as to permit the immediate exercise of these warrants. The warrants were originally scheduled to be exercisable in March 2017.

Walgreens Boots Alliance then exercised these warrants and purchased 22,696,912 shares of AmerisourceBergen common stock for an aggregate payment of approximately $1.19 billion. The transaction was funded using existing cash on hand.

“Today’s announcement builds on the strong and collaborative working relationship our companies have built together, and further strengthens the long-term strategic relationship we launched in 2013,” said Executive Vice Chairman and CEO Stefano Pessina. “Since the beginning of the strategic relationship, we have worked together with AmerisourceBergen to improve the customer experience by delivering the right products at the right time to ensure that we are able to provide exceptional patient access and care in our U.S. pharmacy operations.”

With today’s exercise of these warrants, Walgreens Boots Alliance now beneficially owns 56,854,867 shares of AmerisourceBergen common stock, or 23.9 percent of AmerisourceBergen’s outstanding equity (based on shares outstanding as of 31 July 2016, adjusted to give effect to the exercise of these warrants).

Walgreens Boots Alliance intends to continue to account for its investment in AmerisourceBergen using the equity method of accounting, subject to a two-month lag, with the net earnings attributable to its investment being classified within the operating income of the company’s Pharmaceutical Wholesale segment.

Notes to Editors:

About Walgreens Boots Alliance

Walgreens Boots Alliance (Nasdaq: WBA) is the first global pharmacy-led, health and wellbeing enterprise.

The company was created through the combination of Walgreens and Alliance Boots in December 2014, bringing together two leading companies with iconic brands, complementary geographic footprints, shared values and a heritage of trusted health care services through pharmaceutical wholesaling and community pharmacy care, dating back more than 100 years.

Walgreens Boots Alliance is the largest retail pharmacy, health and daily living destination in the USA and Europe and, together with its equity method investments*, employs more than 370,000* people and has a presence in more than 25* countries. Walgreens Boots Alliance is a global leader in pharmacy-led, health and wellbeing retail with over 13,100* stores in 11* countries. The company includes one of the largest global pharmaceutical wholesale and distribution networks with over 350* distribution centers delivering to more than 200,000** pharmacies, doctors, health centers and hospitals each year in 19* countries. In addition, Walgreens Boots Alliance is one of the world’s largest purchasers of prescription drugs and many other health and wellbeing products.

The company’s portfolio of retail and business brands includes Walgreens, Duane Reade, Boots and Alliance Healthcare, as well as increasingly global health and beauty product brands, such as No7, Botanics, Liz Earle and Soap & Glory.

* As at 31 August 2015 (without subsequent adjustment for business acquisitions or dispositions), including equity method investments

** For 12 months ended 31 August 2015 (without subsequent adjustment for business acquisitions or dispositions), including equity method investments

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements: All statements in this release that are not historical are forward-looking statements made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks, assumptions and uncertainties, including those described in Item 1A (Risk Factors) of our Form 10-K for the fiscal year ending 31 August 2015 and our Form 10-Q for the fiscal quarter ended 31 May 2016, which are incorporated herein by reference, and in other documents that we file or furnish with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Except to the extent required by law, we do not undertake, and expressly disclaim, any duty or obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statement after the date of this release, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions or otherwise.

Contacts:

Media Relations:
USA
Michael Polzin
+1 847 315 2920

International:
Laura Vergani
+44 (0)207 980 8585

Investor Relations:
Gerald Gradwell and Ashish Kohli
+1 847 315 2922

Source: Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.

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Lee’s Marketplace to acquire Day’s Market in Heber City

Lee’s Marketplace to acquire Day’s Market in Heber City
Lee’s Marketplace to acquire Day’s Market in Heber City

 

Logan, UT, 2016-Aug-26 — /EPR Retail News/ — Lee’s Marketplace is coming to Heber City. The locally owned grocer announced today (AUGUST 24, 2016) that it plans to purchase Day’s Market in Heber City and transition the store to a Lee’s Marketplace. The sale is expected to be finalized on September 26, 2016.

“We are excited to bring Lee’s to the Heber community and are looking forward to getting to know our new shoppers,” said Jonathan Badger, president of Lee’s Marketplace. “We have the deepest respect for Day’s Market and have worked with them for years as members of Associated Food Stores.”

Badger anticipates a smooth transition of the 40,000 square-foot store. Lee’s is committed to ensuring guests continue to receive excellent customer service and quality products at the Heber City store. Guests can expect to find their favorite products throughout the store including freshest produce, scratch bakery, designer floral and in-store butcher. Lee’s plans to add more organic produce and specialty foods throughout the store as well. The pharmacy will continue to care for existing and new patients without disruption. As part of Lee’s commitment to a smooth change, the store will remain open during the transition.

Lee’s Marketplace currently has three stores in Logan, Smithfield and North Ogden, with a fourth store under construction in North Salt Lake that is expected to open later this fall. Lee’s Marketplace is committed to serving their communities through quality products, friendly service, clean and bright stores and multiple community partnerships.

For more information about Lee’s MarketPlace, visit their website http://leesmarketplace.com/

About Lee’s Marketplace
Lee’s Marketplace opened in 1981 when Lee and Shari Badger purchased Jack’s Foodtown in Smithfield, Utah. The family-owned grocer specializes in clean, bright and friendly stores while offering shoppers a designer floral department, chef-inspired deli, scratch-bakery, full-service butcher and friendly pharmacy. Lee’s focuses on providing shoppers with a hometown feel while staying involved in the communities they serve. They currently have three locations in Smithfield, Logan and North Ogden, Utah.

Media Contact:
Rachael Wabel
rmwabel@afstores.com
801-978-8913

Source: AFS

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Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc. to acquire CST Brands, Inc.

Laval, Québec, Canada, 2016-Aug-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc. (TSX: ATD.A ATD.B), (“Couche-Tard”), today (August 22, 2016) announces a definitive merger agreement with CST Brands, Inc. (NYSE: CST) (“CST”) under which Couche-Tard would acquire CST in an all-cash transaction for US $48.53 per share, with a total enterprise value of approximately US $4.4 billion including net debt assumed. The terms and conditions of the agreement were unanimously approved by the Boards of Directors of both companies.

CST is based in San Antonio, Texas and employs over 14,000 people at over 2,000 locations throughout the Southwestern United States with an important presence in Texas, in Georgia, in the U.S. Southeast Region, in the State of New York and Eastern Canada. CST also controls the general partner of Cross America Partners LP (NYSE: CAPL) (“CAPL”), owns 100% of its Incentive Distribution Rights and holds a significant equity investment in it. CAPL distributes branded and unbranded road transportation fuel to more than 1,100 locations in the United States.

The transaction price represents a premium of 42% to CST’s closing share price on March 3, 2016, the last trading day prior to CST announcing that it would explore and review its strategic alternatives to further enhance its stockholder value.

This all-cash transaction is expected to be financed by Couche-Tard’s available cash, existing credit facilities and a new term loan. The CST transaction is expected to close in early calendar year 2017 and is subject to the approval of CST’s stockholders and regulatory approvals in the United States and Canada.

Couche-Tard has also entered into an agreement with Parkland Fuel Corporation (TSX: PKI) pursuant to which it would sell certain Canadian assets of CST after the merger for approximately US$ 750 million. The assets in Canada that would be sold include a) CST’s Cardlock business, b) CST’s Dealer and Commission Agents business, c) CST’s Commercial and Home Energy business, d) a number of company-operated stores to be determined following the Competition Bureau of Canada’s review of the transaction and e) CST’s Montréal corporate head office. This transaction is subject to customary regulatory approval and closing conditions. Couche-Tard intends to use the proceeds from this sale to repay part of its credit facilities.

“We look forward to welcoming CST and CAPL to the Couche-Tard family” says Brian Hannasch, Couche-Tard’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “CST is an excellent company and is well positioned in the Southwestern United States with an important presence in Texas, Georgia, in the U.S. Southeast Region, New York and Eastern Canada. With this transaction we would strategically strengthen our positioning in both the “sun belt” and the east coast of North America. Our teams are looking forward to meeting CST customers and welcoming them into the CoucheTard family.”

“We are excited to share best practices with CST as well as to combine the capabilities of CST’s team with Couche-Tard’s, to enhance value for our stockholders. We strongly believe that our all-cash offer is a compelling one for CST’s stockholders, giving them the opportunity to realize full and immediate value for their investment,” says Brian Hannasch.

Alain Bouchard, Founder and Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors, Couche-Tard says, “I have always thought that in our industry ‘size matters’, whether that be for purchasing, logistics, best practices or for becoming famous for our product categories. The addition of CST’s exceptional people and its strategic assets takes us one step further towards all these goals. I look forward to welcoming the CST and CAPL teams onboard into our growing company.”

Upon completion of the transaction, Couche-Tard would establish a new business unit in San Antonio with attached shared services operations.

Faegre Baker Daniels LLP and Davies Ward Phillips & Vineberg are acting as legal advisors to Couche-Tard. Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC and National Bank Financial advised Couche-Tard in connection with the transaction.

INVITATION TO CONFERENCE CALLS AND WEBCAST FOR ANALYSTS AND MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES – AUGUST 22, 2016

Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc. invites analysts and media representatives to two separate conference calls in which representatives of Couche-Tard’s management team will participate.

An investor presentation will be available on http://corpo.couche-tard.com.

For analysts: There will be a conference call for analysts only that will take place today, starting at 8:30 a.m. (EDT) promptly. Analysts will need to contact CNW at one of the following numbers: (866) 865-3087, (514) 807-9895 or (647) 427-7450, conference number 69750702# and will need to identify themselves. Lines will be available 30 minutes in advance to allow them to register. Participants will not be able to join the call after it has started. The session will be taped and the recording will be made available on http://corpo.couche-tard.com for a 30-day period.

For media representatives: There will be a conference call and a webcast for media representatives only that will take place today, starting at 11:00 a.m. (EDT) promptly. Media representatives will need to contact CNW at one of the following numbers: (866) 865-3087, (514) 807-9895 or (647) 427-7450, conference number 69746602# and will need to identify themselves. Lines will be available 30 minutes in advance to allow them to register. Participants will not be able to join the call after it has started. A live audio webcast of the conference call will be available through the following link: webcast.

About Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc.
Couche-Tard is the leader in the Canadian convenience store industry. In the United States, it is the largest independent convenience store operator in terms of number of company-operated stores. In Europe, Couche-Tard is a leader in convenience store and road transportation fuel retail in the Scandinavian countries (Norway, Sweden and Denmark), in the Baltic States (Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania, in Ireland and in Russia with an important presence in Poland.

As of April 24, 2016, Couche-Tard’s network comprised 7,888 convenience stores throughout North America, including 6,490 stores with road transportation fuel dispensing. Its North American network consists of 15 business units, including 11 in the United States covering 41 states and 4 in Canada covering all 10 provinces. Approximately 80,000 people are employed throughout its network and at its service offices in North America.

In Europe, Couche-Tard operates a broad retail network across Scandinavia, Ireland, Poland, the Baltics States and Russia through ten business units. As of April 24, 2016, Couche-Tard’s network is comprised of 2,659 stores, the majority of which offer road transportation fuel and convenience products while the others are unmanned automated fuel sites which only offer road transportation fuel. Couche-Tard also offers other products, including stationary energy, marine fuel, aviation fuel, lubricants and chemicals. Including employees at its branded franchise stores, approximately 25,000 people work in its retail network, terminals and service offices across Europe.

In addition, under licensing agreements, almost 1,500 stores are operated under the Circle K banner in 13 other countries and territories worldwide (China, Costa Rica, Egypt, Guam, Honduras, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Macau, Malaysia, Mexico, the Philippines, the United Arab Emirates and Vietnam), which brings the total network to over 12,000 stores.

For more information on Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc., please visit: http://corpo.couche-tard.com.

Additional Information and Where to Find It

This communication does not constitute a solicitation of any vote or approval. In connection with the proposed transaction, CST intends to file a proxy statement and other relevant documents concerning the proposed transaction with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. CST will provide the full proxy statement to its stockholders. Investors and stockholders are urged to read the proxy statement and any other relevant documents filed with the SEC when they become available, as well as any amendments or supplements to those documents, because they will contain important information about the transaction. Investors and stockholders will be able to obtain a copy of the proxy statement as well as other filings containing information about CST free of charge at the SEC’s Web Site at http://www.sec.gov. In addition, the proxy statement, the SEC filings that will be incorporated by reference in the proxy statement and the other documents filed with the SEC by CST may be obtained free of charge from CST’s Investor Relations page on its corporate website at http://www.cstbrands.com.

CST and its directors, executive officers, and certain other members of management and employees may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies in favor of the proposed transaction from the stockholders of CST. Information about the directors and executive officers of CST is set forth in CST’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 and the proxy statement on Schedule 14A for CST’s 2016 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, which was filed with the SEC on April 29, 2016. Additional information regarding participants in the proxy solicitation may be obtained by reading the proxy statement regarding the proposed transaction when it becomes available.

Forward-Looking Statements

The statements set forth in this press release, which describe Couche-Tard’s objectives, projections, estimates, expectations or forecasts, may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of securities legislation. Positive or negative verbs such as “will”, “plan”, “evaluate”, “estimate”, “believe”, “expect” and other related expressions are used to identify such statements. Couche-Tard would like to point out that, by their very nature, forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties such that its results, or the measures it adopts, could differ materially from those indicated or underlying these statements, or could have an impact on the degree of realization of a particular projection. Major factors that may lead to a material difference between Couche-Tard’s actual results and the projections or expectations set forth in the forward-looking statements include the effects of the integration of acquired businesses and the ability to achieve projected synergies, fluctuations in margins on motor fuel sales, competition in the convenience store and retail motor fuel industries, exchange rate variations, and such other risks as described in detail from time to time in documents filed by Couche-Tard with securities regulatory authorities in Canada. Unless otherwise required by applicable securities laws, Couche-Tard disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. The forward-looking information in this press release is based on information available as of the date of the release.

Contacts:

Investor Relations:
Claude Tessier
Chief Financial Officer
Tel: (450) 662-6632, ext. 4407
investor.relations@couche-tard.com

Media Relations:
Karen Romer
Director Global Communications
Tel: (514) 603-4505 / +47 950 74 950
karen.romer@couche-tard.com

Source: Couche-Tard

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Best Buy celebrates turning 50 with a 50-hour sale featuring 50 Black Friday-like deals on latest technology

Minneapolis, MN, 2016-Aug-19 — /EPR Retail News/ — Best Buy is turning 50, and to celebrate, we’re throwing a birthday bash for you, our customers. The party kicks off tonight with a 50-hour sale featuring 50 Black Friday-like deals on the latest technology.

Find great prices on everything from MacBook Pro computers and 4K UHD TVs, to headphones and activity trackers during this first-of-its-kind sale. The Best Buy 50-Hour Anniversary Sale starts at 10 p.m. Central Time today and ends at 11:59 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 20. The can’t-miss offers are a lead up to the 50th anniversary of the company, which opened its first store on Aug. 22, 1966.

Nearly all of these deals are available both in-store and on BestBuy.com, so you can shop how, when, and where you want. Shop on BestBuy.com and you can also get free, two-day shipping on almost everything included in the sale.

The sale comes just in time for back-to-school shoppers, but students and their parents can save big, anytime, at BestBuy.com/StudentDeals.

Deals included in the Best Buy 50-Hour Anniversary Sale:

  • Save $150 on select MacBook Pro computers
    • Students can save an additional $150, for a total savings of $300 with Best Buy’s Student Deals program
  • Save $400 on a 65-inch Samsung 4K UHD TV
  • Save $180 on Beats Studio wireless on-ear headphones
  • Get an iPhone 6s starting at $1 or an iPhone 6s Plus starting at $99.99 with two-year activation on Sprint or Verizon Wireless (Save $200) – or get a $200 gift card with purchase of iPhone 6s or iPhone 6s Plus and activation with an AT&T Next plan
  • Save up to 70 percent on LEGO Dimensions, Skylanders and amiibo
  • Save $50 on Garmin Vivosmart HR activity tracker
  • Get “Destiny” and your choice of two other select games for free with purchase of the PlayStation 4 “Call of Duty” bundle
  • Get a $50 gift card with purchase of a Swagtron T1 self-balancing scooter(online only)

All product offers are available while supplies last. For complete details, visit BestBuy.com.

Source: Best Buy

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PREIT completes sale of Washington Crown Center in Washington, PA for $20 million

PHILADELPHIA, 2016-Aug-18 — /EPR Retail News/ — PREIT (NYSE: PEI) announced it has completed the sale of Washington Crown Center in Washington, PA.  The property was sold for $20.0 million.

“We remain committed to crafting a strong portfolio of assets that are well-positioned for the future,” said Joseph F. Coradino, CEO of PREIT. “This commitment has been evident in our disposition program as well as our remerchandising and redevelopment successes and has resulted in improved operating results including strong renewal spreads, margin improvement and same store NOI growth.”

Washington Crown Center, located in Washington, PA, is anchored by Bon-Ton, Macy’s, Gander Mountain and Sears.  As of June 30, 2016, the property generated sales per square foot of $313 and non-anchor occupancy of 87.4%.

PREIT, through continued execution of its robust transformation agenda, has generated proceeds in excess of $660 million and has driven sales to new levels, reaching $460 per square foot excluding Washington Crown Center.

The Company is currently marketing Beaver Valley Mall, in Monaca, PA, as part of its continued portfolio optimization and capital allocation prioritization plan.

About PREIT
PREIT (NYSE: PEI) is a publicly traded real estate investment trust specializing in the ownership and management of differentiated shopping malls.  Headquartered in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the company owns and operates over 25 million square feet of retail space in the eastern half of the United States with concentration in the Mid-Atlantic region’s top MSAs. Since 2012, the company has driven a transformation guided by an emphasis on balance sheet strength, high-quality merchandising and disciplined capital expenditures. Additional information is available at preit.com, on Twitter or LinkedIn.

Forward Looking Statements
This press release contains certain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the federal securities laws. Forward-looking statements relate to expectations, beliefs, projections, future plans, strategies, anticipated events, trends and other matters that are not historical facts. These forward-looking statements reflect our current views about future events, achievements or results and are subject to risks, uncertainties and changes in circumstances that might cause future events, achievements or results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. In particular, our business might be materially and adversely affected by uncertainties affecting real estate businesses generally as well as the following, among other factors: our substantial debt, stated value of preferred shares and our high leverage ratio; constraining leverage, interest and tangible net worth covenants under our 2013 Revolving Facility, our 2014 Term Loans and our 2015 Term Loan; potential losses on impairment of certain long-lived assets, such as real estate, or of intangible assets, such as goodwill, including such losses that we might be required to record in connection with any dispositions of assets; changes to our corporate management team and any resulting modifications to our business strategies; our ability to refinance our existing indebtedness when it matures, on favorable terms or at all; our ability to raise capital, including through the issuance of equity or equity-related securities if market conditions are favorable, through joint ventures or other partnerships, through sales of properties or interests in properties, or through other actions; our ability to identify and execute on suitable acquisition opportunities and to integrate acquired properties into our portfolio; our partnerships and joint ventures with third parties to acquire or develop properties; our short- and long-term liquidity position; current economic conditions and their effect on employment, consumer confidence and spending and the corresponding effects on tenant business performance, prospects, solvency and leasing decisions and on our cash flows, and the value and potential impairment of our properties;  general economic, financial and political conditions, including credit market conditions, changes in interest rates or unemployment; changes in the retail industry, including consolidation and store closings, particularly among anchor tenants; the effects of online shopping and other uses of technology on our retail tenants;  our ability to sell properties that we seek to dispose of or our ability to obtain estimated sale prices; our ability to maintain and increase property occupancy, sales and rental rates, in light of the relatively high number of leases that have expired or are expiring in the next two years; acts of violence at malls, including our properties, or at other similar spaces, and the potential effect on traffic and sales;  increases in operating costs that cannot be passed on to tenants; risks relating to development and redevelopment activities which could be subject to delays or other risks and might not yield the returns we anticipate; concentration of our properties in the Mid-Atlantic region; changes in local market conditions, such as the supply of or demand for retail space, or other competitive factors; and potential dilution from any capital raising transactions.  Additional factors that might cause future events, achievements or results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by our forward-looking statements include those discussed in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and in any subsequent Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q in the section entitled “Item 1A. Risk Factors.” We do not intend to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect new information, future events or otherwise.

CONTACT: 

Heather Crowell
SVP, Corporate Communications and Investor Relations
(215) 454-1241
heather.crowell@preit.com

SOURCE PREIT

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The Dairy Farm Company acquires 286,934,440 shares in Yonghui Superstores Co., Ltd for US$190 million

Hong Kong, 2016-Aug-16 — /EPR Retail News/ —  Dairy Farm International Holdings Limited today announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary, The Dairy Farm Company, Limited, has completed the acquisition of a further 286,934,440 shares in Yonghui Superstores Co., Ltd (‘Yonghui’) for a consideration of approximately US$190 million.

The acquisition, which is alongside an acquisition by JD.com of a 10% interest and by Mr. Zhang Xuansong, the Chairman of Yonghui, of a 2% interest, maintains Dairy Farm’s shareholding in Yonghui at 19.99%.

The acquisition was first announced on 7th August 2015, and had been subject to the receipt of the necessary regulatory approvals. The number of shares subscribed by Dairy Farm was adjusted from the amount originally announced to take account of a bonus issue of shares made by Yonghui in June 2016.

Yonghui is a Shanghai-listed hypermarket and supermarket operator based in Fuzhou, Fujian province in mainland China. As at 31st March 2016, Yonghui operated 412 retail outlets across China.

Dairy Farm is a leading pan-Asian retailer. The Group, together with its associates and joint ventures, operates some 6,500 outlets – including supermarkets, hypermarkets, convenience stores, health and beauty stores, home furnishings stores and restaurants – employing over 180,000 people, and had total annual sales in 2015 exceeding US$17 billion. Dairy Farm International Holdings Limited is incorporated in Bermuda and has a standard listing on the London Stock Exchange as its primary listing, with secondary listings in Bermuda and Singapore. It is a member of the Jardine Matheson Group.

For further information, please contact:

Dairy Farm Management Services Limited
Lancy Ng
(852) 2299 3011 Brunswick Group Limited

Siobhan Xiaohui Zheng
(852) 3512 5044

This and other Group announcements can be accessed through the Internet at ‘www.dairyfarmgroup.com’.

Source: Dairy Farm International Holdings Limited

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MIGROS MACHT WELLE 7 ZUM HOTSPOT FÜR ZEITGENÖSSISCHE KUNST

MIGROS MACHT WELLE 7 ZUM HOTSPOT FÜR ZEITGENÖSSISCHE KUNST
MIGROS MACHT WELLE 7 ZUM HOTSPOT FÜR ZEITGENÖSSISCHE KUNST

 

Schönbühl, Switzerland, 2016-Aug-15 — /EPR Retail News/ — Das Kulturprozent der Migros Aare verstärkt sein Engagement in der Kunstförderung. Für das neue innerstädtische Center Welle 7 am Bahnhof Bern sind Kunstwerke von zehn zeitgenössischen Künstlerinnen und Künstler aus den Kantonen Bern, Aargau und Solothurn angekauft worden.

Nach Phasen des strukturierten Ankaufs von neuen Kunstobjekten wurden in den letzten Jahren über das Migros-Kulturprozent nur noch sporadisch Gemälde und Kleinskulpturen für die Kunstsammlung der Migros Aare angekauft. Ab diesem Jahr wird die Kunst-sammlung nun wieder gezielt erweitert. Ein erster Schwerpunkt beim Ankauf neuer Kunstwerke bildet die soeben eröffnete Welle 7, ein urbanes Center für Genuss, Business, Bildung und Einkauf direkt am Hauptbahnhof Bern.

Spannendes Spektrum
In der Welle 7 sind auf mehreren Etagen die neuesten angekauften Werke der Kunst-sammlung der Migros Aare zu sehen. Die entsprechende Auswahl der Neuankäufe wurde durch die Kunstkommission der Migros Aare getroffen. Vertreten sind insgesamt zehn zeitgenössische regionale Künstlerinnen und Künstler aus dem Einzugsgebiet der Genossenschaft Migros Aare (Kantone Bern, Aargau, Solothurn).
Dies sind die Kunstschaffenden, welche die Welle 7 auch zu einem Hotspot zeitge-nössicher Kunst machen:

– Urs Dickerhof (BE)
– Marianne Engel (AG)
– Annatina Graf (SO)
– Maia Gusberti (BE)
– Jerry Haenggli (BE)
– Olivia Notaro (BE)
– Milena Seiler (AG)
– Andreas Tschersich (BE)
– Dominique Uldry (BE)
– Martin Ziegelmüller (BE)

Vernissage am Freitag
Die Eröffnung der Ausstellung von aktuellen Neunkäufen der Kunstsammlung der Migros Aare findet am Freitag, 12. August 2016, 18.00 Uhr, im Restaurant The Flow in der Welle 7 (PostParc West direkt beim Bahnhof Bern) statt:

18.00 Uhr: Begrüssung durch Reto Wüthrich (Leiter Kommunikation, Kulturprozent & Sponsoring der Migros Aare und Mitglied der Kunstkommission)
18-19 Uhr: Rundgang durch die Welle 7 mit Eva Bigler (Leiterin Kunstsammlung der Migros Aare)
19-21 Uhr: Apéro im Restaurant The Flow
Anmeldung unter: kunstvernissage@gmaare.migros.ch

Medienkontakt:

Eva Bigler
Verantwortliche Kunstsammlung der Migros Aare
078 743 35 16
eva.bigler@gmaare.migros.ch

Source: Migros

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Walmart to acquire Jet.com for approximately $3 billion

BENTONVILLE, Ark. and HOBOKEN, N.J., 2016-Aug-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. and Jet.com, Inc. today announced they have entered into a definitive agreement for Walmart to acquire Jet for approximately $3 billion in cash, a portion of which will be paid over time. Additionally, $300 million of Walmart shares will be paid over time as part of the transaction.

The acquisition will build on and complement the significant foundation already in place to serve customers across the Walmart app, site and stores and position the company for even faster e-commerce growth in the future by expanding customer reach and adding new capabilities. The acquisition, which is subject to regulatory approval, has been approved by the Boards of Directors for both companies and is expected to close this calendar year.

“We’re looking for ways to lower prices, broaden our assortment and offer the simplest, easiest shopping experience because that’s what our customers want,” said Doug McMillon, president and CEO, Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. “We believe the acquisition of Jet accelerates our progress across these priorities. Walmart.com will grow faster, the seamless shopping experience we’re pursuing will happen quicker, and we’ll enable the Jet brand to be even more successful in a shorter period of time. Our customers will win. It’s another jolt of entrepreneurial spirit being injected into Walmart.”

Jet is among the fastest growing and most innovative e-commerce companies in the U.S., with an experienced leadership team led by co-founder and CEO Marc Lore, together with fellow co-founders Mike Hanrahan and Nate Faust. Among other things, Lore previously co-founded and led Quidsi, the parent company of e-commerce sites Diapers.com, Soap.com and Wag.com. With the help of Faust and Hanrahan, Lore grew Quidsi into a prominent and successful business that was ultimately sold. The acquisition of Jet will infuse Walmart with fresh ideas and expertise, as well as an attractive brand with proven appeal, especially with Millennials, the first generation of true digital natives. Among other things, Jet has:

  • Demonstrated ability to scale with speed, reaching $1 billion in run-rate Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) and offering 12 million SKUs in its first year.
  • A growing customer base of urban and millennial customers with more than 400,000 new shoppers added monthly and an average of 25,000 daily processed orders.
  • Best-in-class technology that rewards customers in real time with savings on items that are bought and shipped together, thereby reducing the supply-chain and logistics costs often buried in the price of goods.
  • A select group of more than 2,400 retailer and brand partners tailored to create an attractive and distinctive assortment for consumers.

“We started Jet with the vision of creating a new shopping experience,” Lore said. “Today, I couldn’t be more excited that we will be joining with Walmart to help fuel the realization of that vision. The combination of Walmart’s retail expertise, purchasing scale, sourcing capabilities, distribution footprint, and digital assets – together with the team, technology and business we have built here at Jet – will allow us to deliver more value to customers.”

Walmart and Jet will maintain distinct brands, with Walmart.com focusing on delivering the company’s Everyday Low Price strategy, while Jet will continue to provide a unique and differentiated customer experience with curated assortment. Walmart and Jet will leverage innovative technology solutions from both companies to develop new offerings to help customers save time and money.

Walmart believes it will obtain the necessary regulatory approvals to complete the transaction and both companies intend to make all necessary filings in the near future.

As a reminder, Walmart will release its second quarter earnings on Thursday, Aug. 18, 2016.

Financial advisors to Walmart on this transaction were Allen & Company and J.P. Morgan Securities LLC.

About Walmart
Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. (NYSE: WMT) helps people around the world save money and live better – anytime and anywhere – in retail stores, online, and through their mobile devices. Each week, nearly 260 million customers and members visit our 11,527 stores under 63 banners in 28 countries and e-commerce websites in 11 countries. With fiscal year 2016 revenue of $482 billion, Walmart employs more than 2.3 million associates worldwide. Walmart continues to be a leader in sustainability, corporate philanthropy and employment opportunity. Additional information about Walmart can be found by visiting http://corporate.walmart.com on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/walmart and on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/walmart. Online merchandise sales are available at http://www.walmart.com and http://www.samsclub.com.

Forward Looking Statements
The statements in this press release regarding the impact of this acquisition and the anticipated closing date are believed to be “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended (the “Act”), that are intended to enjoy the protection of the safe harbor for forward-looking statements provided by the Act. These forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and other factors.

Investor Relations contact:
Steve Schmitt
(479) 258-7172

Media Relations contact:
Randy Hargrove
(800) 331-0085

Source: WalMart Stores, Inc.

 

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Ticket Utils will become part of eBay Inc.’s StubHub platform

World-class ticket management system to offer easier and more effective inventory, distribution and pricing on global scale.

San Jose, California, 2016-Jul-17 — /EPR Retail News/ — eBay Inc. today announced an agreement to acquire Ticket Utils, a leading independent provider of software that helps large ticket sellers manage inventory and distribution.  Ticket Utils will become part of eBay Inc.’s StubHub platform, the largest ticket marketplace in the U.S. With this acquisition, StubHub will enable large sellers on StubHub to enjoy a best-in-class solution for inventory management, ticket distribution and internationalization of their inventory.

Ticket Utils is already a favorite among ticket sellers because of its ease, reliability and multi-device accessibility. Ticket Utils’ platform and feature set are expected to help maximize sell-through and better automate the inventory management process for large sellers on StubHub. Ticket Utils also supports multiple currencies and language, which will enable sellers to operate more effectively in international markets and take advantage of StubHub’s significant global expansion through our planned acquisition of Ticketbis.

“As StubHub seeks to become a truly global brand, we are working on new ways to ensure that sellers have effective, useful tools to better manage their inventory, pricing, distribution and internationalization,” said StubHub President Scott Cutler. “Ticket Utils is an example of the ways in which we are listening to our customers and working to improving their selling experience, which is a benefit to our business and theirs.”

Ticket Utils offers robust functionality for sellers, including:

  • Desktop and mobile access
  • Instant download and advanced PDF/barcode management
  • Broker hub for one-click broker-to-broker transactions and a built-in broker-to-broker chat tool
  • Instant online stores for sellers
  • Auto-invoice and Quickbooks integration
  • Maps and seating charts

“Ticket Utils has a strong history of providing large ticket sellers a sophisticated tool for managing their inventory, and with StubHub, we’ll be able to expand our reach and increase sellers’ success even further,” said Brian Hampel, president of Ticket Utils. “Scaling globally is an opportunity for growth, and we’re especially focused on introducing StubHub sellers to the ease and efficiency of entering new markets with Ticket Utils’ inventory solution.”

The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions. Terms of the deal are not being disclosed.

Contact:

eBay Headquarters
2025 Hamilton Avenue
San Jose, California 95125
USA
(408) 376-7400

###

Ticket Utils will become part of eBay Inc.’s StubHub platform
Ticket Utils will become part of eBay Inc.’s StubHub platform

 

Source: eBay

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POD Retail Displays Have Launched Their Innovative New Website With Hundreds Of Retail Display Products

POD Retail has branched out from the exhibition industry into the retail industry with their wide range of glass display cabinets. They have gone on to incorporate a range of picture and poster display for point of sale, cable and rod mounted displays for effective window displays, queue management systems including point of purchase display stands and outdoor retail display products.

POD Retail Displays

Not only can POD Retail Displays now provide a greater choice of retail display products, but also information displays, exhibition stands and outdoor display equipment.

Joe Plosky commented on the new website developments “Over the past few months we have been working really hard to get a functional, user friendly, informative website to display our great range of retail products. Our display cabinet range has been a huge success, and we know our other retail products add great value to retailers. We know all of our customers are going to benefit from the changes.”

The careful selection of all these retail display products has resulted in a great choice of quality shop displays at reasonable prices. We have selected high quality retail products that provide value for money, but that will also stand up to the strains that a public environment can put on display products.

The range of retail display products include light box displays, cable mounted displays, freestanding display stands, literature stands and in queue management systems.

In this difficult period for many retailers, it is good to have a company that can provide small shops and stores to large corporate companies with the retail displays they need to effectively promote their products and services.

A Boards, Pavement Signs, Forecourt signs, Promotional counters and Picture and poster displays are just some of the retail display equipment that can help retailers advertise and promote their goods. All these display products and more can be found on POD Retail Displays website at http://www.pod-retail-display-systems.co.uk.

Via EPR Network
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Displaysense Has Been Carrying Out Big Changes To Its European Online Advertising Campaigns In Order To Meet The Demands Of Its International Customers

According to Displaysense, the UK’s leading supplier of display cabinets and mannequins, many companies are not tackling all of the issues surrounding international language barriers and could be missing out on business as a result.

Due to the success of the company’s European website Displaysense.com, Displaysense has been bombarded over recent months with more and more seemingly unusual enquiries for products, which has largely been due to poor translation and misunderstanding of products and their purpose.

The company’s sales team has faced strange requests over the past year, including a customer from France searching for a ‘naked female model’, when they meant mannequin, and a lady from Germany enquiring “if your Fach came with screws”, with ‘Fach’ meaning ‘shelf’ in German. They have also dealt with partial translations from European customers, such as the Polish customer who was looking for some cack stands, when they meant cake stands.

In order to better service their international customers and avoid further embarrassment to the Displaysense sales team, keyword translations are to be added to the website’s search tool. As in the example of the shelving unit, the search tool will direct foreign users who use such phrases or words to the correct product and provide the facility to pay in Euros rather than sterling.

Steve Whittle, the marketing manager at Displaysense commented: “This is only the start of our international “driving business forward” campaign, where we shall aim to optimise our European site to offer the best in customer search results and the products put before them. Eventually we would hope to offer domain specific sites that are fully translated, but that is some time off yet.”

With changes in global trade impacting upon all forms of businesses on a day to day basis, Displaysense has recognised that it is now more important than ever to ensure that communication barriers are broken down and businesses focus their strategies upon the wider world.

Via EPR Network
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Displaysense Is Introducing A New Range Of Hanging Body Form Busts After Significant Demand From Customers

During this recession, businesses are learning that they must adapt quickly as well as work smarter and more efficiently in order to make the most out of every pound. Such companies are hoping the strategy of supplying more to customers in the way of product choice and services will ensure they are leading the UK’s economic recovery.

Displaysense, the country’s leading supplier of display cabinets and leaflet holders believe they are doing their part in offering more to businesses and consumers by introducing more than 200 new products over the past month alone as well as offering more in the way of information to existing and prospective customers.

One such new product launch that is offering more to the companies customers is their new range of hanging body form busts. This range is a first for Displaysense who are now supplying value sale packs in the form of “mega deal” packs as standard across the range of busts that offers greater savings to customers.

The company has already received a number of enquiries for the mega deal packs of hanging busts throughout August, from a number of clothing retailers through to a paintball centre wanting to use the items for training and target practice, which has made the company think broader when it comes to promoting these products

Steve Whittle, the marketing manager at Displaysense, commented on this new wave of product launches by saying “We are incredibly proud of every new product that we introduce as we fully understand that in a market such as this we cannot afford to stand still for very long. We are hoping to launch further mega deal packs in the future that could offer even greater savings, which is a much needed considering the current fragile nature of the retail sector.”

Not only have the company been introducing new products on a regular basis, but Displaysense has also been improving its new website with a faster site search function, allowing for easier customer access to products such as business card holders and whiteboards. The business has also embraced customer self service as another area to improve efficiencies, with the introduction of service forms, so customers can make enquiries or raise issues at any time of the day.

With new customer feedback and returns processes also recently introduced by the company in a bid to aid their customers, proving that Displaysense is not only pushing the message of economic recovery, but are also far from going bust anytime soon.

Via EPR Network
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Displaysense To Sell Relaxation And Motivation

Displaysense, the Hertfordshire-based retail display provider, is looking to play its part in stimulating the UK by sourcing office display equipment that provides a healthier, enjoyable working environment.

Displaysense To Sell Relaxation And Motivation

Displaysense, the country’s leading supplier of shelving units and display cabinets, is encouraging businesses around the country to create more home like environments for their employees to work in, in order to encourage productivity and increase motivation.

To do this, the company is launching its “Late Summer Break Out” campaign that will see the introduction of ergonomic computer desks as well as other display items that might be expected at home such as plants, comfy sofas, paintings, lamps and other relaxing display equipment.

In order to spread the “Late Summer Break Out” message, Displaysense will also be sending leaflets out to a selection of their business customers highlighting the importance of a relaxed, fun working environment. The leaflet will show how they can make the most out of their office space by using some of the new Displaysense display systems, as well as ideas to assist in motivating the workforce.

Steve Whittle, the marketing manager at Displaysense, commented on the concept, “A lot of people spend the majority of their days at work and constant exposure to these stressful environments can not only lead to a loss in productivity, but also serious health issues. Having fun is a basic human requirement and we believe that businesses should do more to make employees comfortable and provide a slice of home and pleasurable places to escape within their office environment.”

Motivational theorist, Abraham Maslow, noted in the 1940’s that employees have certain criteria that need fulfilling in the work environment and the basic psychological needs, such as having fun, are the most important requirements of all.

Regardless of the size of the business, the UK is reportedly working longer hours than other countries in the EU, emphasising the need for a more relaxed workplace.

Via EPR Network
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The UK’s Leading Retail Display Provider, Is Hoping To Tap Into The Wave Of Celebrity Success By Launching A “Celebrity I-Doll” Mannequin Competition For The Summer

Displaysense who sells a wide variety of literature holders and other shop fittings, has received requests in the past for alternative mannequin styles such as mannequins with bigger rear ends, but never has the company considered celebrity style imitation mannequins.

The retail display provider is set to launch the competition over the coming months by emailing existing customers, encouraging them to email and write in to Displaysense and state which celebrity they would most like a mannequin designed to look like and their reasons why.

The idea for the competition came about after an eager customer who had previously purchased a display cabinet from Displaysense, wrote in half way through July asking if a Marilyn Monroe mannequin could be created so he could kiss and fantasise over the fibreglass celebrity imitation.

Steve Whittle the marketing manager at Displaysense commented on the unusual competition by saying “We are hoping that our customers will see the funny side of the celebrity I-doll competition, especially during the summer holidays where kids are also encouraged to take part, although we feel that it is the parents that might be more occupied with the competition than the kids. As for the inspiration behind the competition, we are happy that customers are using our mannequins for a number of uses but we do not recommend getting too personal with a mannequin as there could be some undesired side effects”

Once the competition winner is announced, Displaysense will be contacting the celebrities agent to discuss the possibilities of producing mannequins of the celebrity.

According to numerous online celebrity polls, Displaysense could expect to receive requests for the likes of Megan Fox, Jennifer Aniston, George Clooney and Jude Law mannequins, thanks to their award winning legs, bums, tums and good looks. There can however only be one winner in the search for the UK’s first and only “celebrity I-doll” mannequin competition and entrants who feel they can supply Displaysense with that star quality, will need to email or write in to see if they can be this year’s winner.

About Displaysense
Displaysense was established in September of 1978 as a manufacturer of quality point of sale displays. Displaysense has a wealth of experience in design and manufacturing and has been able to develop an ever growing standard range of more than 5,000 displays for retail, exhibitions, office and home. The range is now hugely diverse including literature displays, display cabinets mannequins, office displays, exhibition stands, catering supplies and even items for the home.

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Displaysense Equip Retailers In Their Fight Back Against Shop Lifters

Displaysense has reported a large rise in demand for its security related products as retailers seek security equipment and alternative preventative methods that can be introduced to aid in the fight on crime.

displaysense

In better times, retailers would be happy to see products ‘flying off the shelves’. However, the recession has lead to an increase in the reported cases of shop lifting, which is costing the economy billions of pounds a year.

In order to stop shop lifters in their tracks, retailers are turning to companies such as Displaysense, for security equipment and alternative preventative methods that can be introduced to aid in the fight on crime.

The Hertfordshire company, which sells a variety of shop display equipment through to lockable security display cabinets has reported a 46% increase in the demand for security related products over the past year, emphasizing the changing demands on retailers.

After receiving numerous requests f r o m customer, Displaysense has recently introduced a new range of security equipment including safes, locks and security mirrors that should help act as a deterrent in the nations’ stores against would be thieves.

Steve Whittle the spokesperson at Displaysense commented on this worrying trend by saying, “The demand for security related items has really shot through the roof, with a large proportion of these products being purchased by retailers who had previously never had to worry about protecting their wares. We are looking to source further security products based on the types of customer enquiries we have had, but the worrying thing is that a lot of people are looking to go far beyond the solutions we currently supply”.

Steve went on further to say, “We have even seen an increase in demand for our range of sign holders and snap frames f r o m the likes of supermarkets, who have had an equally tough time f r o m shop lifters as of late with increasing petty theft, and are presumably having to warn customers about their policies on theft”.

Not only have retailers had to contend with the obvious drop in sales associated with a recession, but are now having to invest extra into security, reducing their profit margins even more – a worry for any store manager and company director during these critical times.

It is hoped that with these extra security measures in place, the threat of shop lifting could decrease dramatically and allow retailers to concentrate more on stock shifting rather than shop lifting.

About Displaysense

 

 

Displaysense was established in September of 1978 as a manufacturer of quality point of sale displays. Displaysense has a wealth of experience in design and manufacturing and has been able to develop an ever growing standard range of over 5,000 displays for retail, exhibitions, office and home. The range is now hugely diverse including literature displays, display cabinets, mannequins, office displays, exhibition displays, catering supplies and even items for the home.

Displaysense works with a large range of clients including, retailers (multiple and independent), blue chip corporate clients, cafés, bars, restaurants and night clubs, shop and office fitters, marketing and promotions companies, designers and architects, product distributors, exhibition contractors and exhibitors, printers, councils and NHS trusts, charities, schools and universities and even home consumers.

Via EPR Network
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Displaysense Goes Plastic Fantastic With Low Cost Shelving

Displaysense has announced it is to offer low cost shelving to retailers in an effort to assist those struggling with the current economic climate.

Over the past year, the retail industry has witnessed a dramatic change to its landscape with big brand names going into administration and consumer confidence hitting new lows. In order to counter this trend and make the most of a bad situation, the high street has turned its back on bespoke retail display products in favour of more affordable low cost alternatives.

Displaysense, the UK’s fastest growing supplier of shop fittings and shop shelving, has been on the look out over the past year for affordable, low cost display equipment to help cash strapped retailers beat the crunch.

Displaysense succeeded in sourcing a good supplier and in May introduced over 30 new shelf solutions to its plastic budget shelving range. Within a month, more than another 30 low budget solutions were introduced and, by June, the sales really began rolling in.

Not only has the company introduced these budget friendly alternatives to their range of over 21,000 products, but Displaysense also prides itself on being very competitive and has undergone extensive price reductions to help its past, present and future customers get through these tough times.

Steve Whittle, spokesman at Displaysense, commented on the company’s recent crunch busting strategy by saying, “Sourcing affordable display products is imperative at times like these when customers will be looking at price as their primary purchasing criteria. We are proud to be playing our part in the recovery of the industry, so much so that some of our products are being sold at a dramatically lower cost than their recommended retail price.”

The introduction of the budget shelving has already proven to be popular, as all forms of businesses, from exhibition centres to independent retailers, are reportedly snapping up these low price shelving units and other display stands for use at industry events.

About Displaysense
Displaysense was established in September of 1978 as a manufacturer of quality point of sale displays. Displaysense has a wealth of experience in design and manufacturing and has been able to develop an ever growing standard range of over 20,000 displays for retail, exhibitions, office and home. The range is now hugely diverse including literature displays, display cabinets, mannequins, office equipment, exhibition stands, catering supplies and even items for the home.

Displaysense works with a large range of clients including, retailers (multiple and independent), blue chip corporate clients, cafés, bars, restaurants and night clubs, shop and office fitters, marketing and promotions companies, designers and architects, product distributors, exhibition contractors and exhibitors, printers, councils and NHS trusts, charities, schools and universities and even home consumers.

Via EPR Network
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Welcome to EPR Retail News

EPR Retail News is a new blog, part of EPR Network, that is going to be focused on and will be covering the retail news and stories from press releases published on EPR Network.

EPR Network (EPR stands for express press release) is one of the nation’s largest press release distribution networks on Web. The EPR’s nationwide network includes 12 State based PR sites, one major PR forum and a number of industry specific PR blogs and what started as a hobby on Internet years ago turned out to be a rapidly growing business today. EPR Network is also known as one of the most trusted (human optimized, published, edited and monitored, spam/scam/low quality PR content free) PR sites on the web with more than 10,000 company and individual press releases distributed per month. EPR Network is putting your press releases on top of all major search engines’ results and is reaching thousands of individuals, companies, PR specialists, media professionals, bloggers and journalists every day.

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