Whole Foods Market offers a variety of last minute gifting options for the holidays

Whole Foods Market offers a variety of last minute gifting options for the holidays

 

Seasonal offerings range from tech toys to gifts that give back to Whole Foods Market’s exclusive recycled Paper Source gift wrap line

AUSTIN, Texas and SEATTLE, 2017-Dec-12 — /EPR Retail News/ — Just in time for the giving season, Whole Foods Market is offering customers a variety of last minute gifting options for family and friends. Ranging from Amazon devices, to beauty and body care sets that benefit charitable foundations, to an exclusive collection of sustainable holiday gift wrap from Paper Source, all can be picked up during your weekly grocery shopping trip. As an added convenience, shoppers can also pick up and return eligible Amazon purchases and holiday gifts from Amazon Lockers, now available at nearly 400 Whole Foods Market stores nationwide.

Shop for tech tools and devices while grabbing groceries

Since early November, customers can now shop for Amazon devices such as the all-new Amazon Echo, Fire TV, Kindle e-readers, Fire tablets, the Echo Dot – the best-selling item on Cyber Monday– and more at over 100 Whole Foods Market stores.

Stylish and sustainable gift wrap

Paper Source, a paper goods retailer offering artisanal paper from around the world, designed a distinctive holiday gift wrap collection for Whole Foods Market, including 13 wrapping paper designs, four gift tags, six gift card holders, 12 gift bags in three sizes, along with several beautiful ribbons, bows, twine and washi tape to give packages a finishing touch. All the printed gift wrap is made from 100 percent recycled materials with 30 percent post-consumer waste, produced with renewable energy sources and delivered under responsible mill practices.

Responsibly sourced kids’ toys

In partnership with PBS Kids, all net proceeds from purchases of sustainable wooden PlanToys ($5.99 – $29.99) and Aurora Plush Animals (starting at $9.99), made from 100% non-toxic materials, will support PBS KIDS’ mission to empower children to succeed in school and in life. Whole Foods Market will donate one percent of total sales to Whole Kids Foundation®, an organization dedicated to improving children’s wellness and nutrition.

Beauty must haves for the holidays

It’s part of Whole Foods Market’s core values to support local and global communities. Every holiday season, America’s Healthiest Grocery Store™ seeks out gifts and products that do just that, such as:

  • Alaffia Good Soap Coconut Trio ($6). Luxurious and affordable, one percent of total annual sales are donated to the Whole Planet Foundation, which works to alleviate poverty through microcredit in communities around the world.
  • Weleda Mighty Essentials bags ($5) are a $25 value worth of Weleda’s cult favorites in handy travel sizes perfect for holiday visits, with all proceeds going toward the Whole Kids & Whole Planet Foundations.
  • Made with Organic Fair Trade cane sugar, purchases of Pacha shower froth bombs ($1.29 per oz.) and shower whip ($14.99) help fuel livelihoods worldwide through clean water initiatives and sustainable soap shops.

Leverage Lockers for Amazon.com pick-ups and returns

Amazon Lockers are a secure and convenient way for customers to receive their Amazon packages. With the holiday season rapidly approaching, Amazon Lockers can save customers an additional stop while running errands and ensuring efficient shopping during the busiest time of year.

Whole Foods Market has a variety of gift giving options, conveniently located in stores across the U.S. Whether it’s for the kids, a friend or a little something for yourself, Whole Foods Market is your one stop shop for gifting this holiday season.

Contact:

SOmedia@wholefoods.com

Source: Whole Foods Market

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Support a charity this holidays with limited-edition Starbucks Cards

Support a charity this holidays with limited-edition Starbucks Cards

 

Seattle, 2017-Nov-28 — /EPR Retail News/ — Starting Nov. 28, Starbucks and Spotify will debut three limited-edition Starbucks Cards featuring Chance the Rapper, Lady Gaga, and Metallica. In the spirit of Starbucks ‘Give Good’ holiday campaign, which encourages goodness of all kinds throughout the holiday season, Starbucks and Spotify are donating a total of $1 million divided among these iconic artists’ three charities that benefit youth empowerment, education and veterans.

The collectible cards will be available at participating company-operated U.S. Starbucks stores with a minimum load of $25, while supplies last. Customers who buy or receive the card as a gift are also eligible for a Spotify Premium trial offer.*

Starbucks and Spotify are encouraging customers to show their support by purchasing the limited-edition Starbucks Cards featuring the three artists. Here are the three charities that will benefit from this partnership:

Chance the Rapper and Social Works

Grammy-winning musician and producer Chance the Rapper has been a social activist, helping connect young people to jobs and raising more than $2.2 million for Chicago Public Schools. His non-profit SocialWorks helps empower youth through the arts, education and civic engagement in his hometown of Chicago.

“Our goal at SocialWorks is to empower the youth through the arts, education, and civic engagement,” said Chance the Rapper. “Many thanks to Starbucks and Spotify for working with us to create more opportunities to build dreams, inspire creativity, and let the youth be themselves!”

Lady Gaga and Born This Way Foundation

Named after her 2011 multi-platinum album, Lady Gaga co-founded the Born This Way Foundation to support the wellness of young people and empower them to build a kinder, braver world. Her courageous and innovative work, which included working with Starbucks for the Cups of Kindness collection, has helped create more positive environments. Initiatives include Channel Kindness, a platform featuring stories of kindness as documented by youth reporters from around the country, and the Kind Communities survey which explored how a young person’s mental wellness is impacted by their relationships and environments.

“A kinder and braver world is urgent, and it is possible. Our work at Born This Way Foundation is to support the wellness – mental, social and emotional – of young people and build strong, resilient communities,” said Lady Gaga. “We’re grateful for our partnership with Starbucks and Spotify this holiday season!”

Metallica and All Within My Hands Foundation

Metallica, one of the biggest selling acts in American history, has long been a favorite among military service members. Metallica’s All Within My Hands Foundation was established by the band members to support a variety of charities, including The Mission Continues, a non-profit organization that supports and empowers veterans adjusting to life at home to find purpose through community impact.

“We are super psyched and grateful for the generous donation Starbucks and Spotify have made to All Within My Hands to help us support veterans as they adjust to life at home and find purpose through community impact,” said Metallica.

To join Starbucks and Spotify with a donation please visit the artists’ foundation websites to learn more.

MEDIA CONTACT:

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

SOURCE: Starbucks Corporation

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7‑Eleven and Coca-Cola team up to brighten the holidays with Slurpee® “Sip & Scan” sweepstakes

7‑Eleven and Coca-Cola team up to brighten the holidays with Slurpee® “Sip & Scan” sweepstakes

 

IRVING, TEXAS, 2017-Nov-22 — /EPR Retail News/ — Ho! Ho! Ho! Santa Claus is coming to town, specifically to 7‑Eleven®stores in town, and he has $100,000 for one lucky Slurpee® drink-lover. 7‑Eleven, Inc. and Coca-Cola are brightening the holidays this year with a Slurpee® “Sip & Scan” sweepstakes that has a grand prize of $100,000. Weekly winners will receive a year of free Slurpee drinks. The holiday promotion ends Jan. 2, 2018.

Entering the sweepstakes is simple:

  1. Purchase one of the special holiday red, medium-size Slurpee cups* at a participating 7‑Eleven store.
  2. Open coke.com/711 on a smartphone and follow the links and instructions.
  3. Scan the “Sip & Scan” icon on the Slurpee cup using camera tool at coke.com/711 to enter for a chance to win the $100,000 grand prize or one of the weekly prizes.

Weekly winners will get free Slurpee drinks for a year (365 medium drinks). The $100,000 grand-prize winner will be announced in January of 2018.

“Slurpee drinks create delicious experiences year ‘round and the holidays are no exception,” said Laura Gordon, 7‑Eleven vice president of marketing and brand innovation. “This season, Slurpee lovers can make their holidays brighter—and more delicious—by sipping on a classic Coca-Cola flavored Slurpee while unlocking the chance to win some extra cash.”

The limited-time holiday Slurpee cup was created with Coke®’s classic red and white colors in the new Slurpee bubble and swirl design.

Adding to the holiday theme is a twisted candy cane Slurpee® straw. Limited-time specialty straws continue to be a popular add-on item.

Coca-Cola’s iconic Santa Claus, as imagined by the artist Haddon Sundblom , will grab attention on special signage at the Slurpee machine.

The holiday Slurpee sweepstakes can be entered one time per day.

*NO PURCHASE/SCAN NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. OPEN TO LEGAL RESIDENTS OF THE 50 US STATES (AND DC), MUST BE 13 YEARS OR OLDER AND HAVE A COKE.COM ACCOUNT BEFORE PARTICIPATING.  AT PARTICIPATING LOCATIONS ONLY. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. Runs from 11/8/17 to 1/2/18. Total ARV of all prizes is $104,000. For Official Rules, free method of entry, prize descriptions, odds disclosure, Entry Periods, and complete details, visit Coke.com/711.  Sponsor: The Coca Cola Company, One Coca-Cola Plaza, Atlanta, GA 30313.

About 7‑Eleven, Inc.

7‑Eleven, Inc. is the premier name and largest chain in the convenience-retailing industry. Based in Irving, Texas, 7‑Eleven® operates, franchises and/or licenses more than 63,000 stores in 18 countries, including 10,900 in North America. Known for its iconic brands such as Slurpee®, Big Bite® and Big Gulp®, 7‑Eleven has expanded into high-quality salads, side dishes, cut fruit and protein boxes, as well as pizza, chicken wings, cheeseburgers and hot chicken sandwiches. 7‑Eleven offers customers industry-leading private-brand products under the 7-Select® brand including healthy options, decadent treats and everyday favorites, at an outstanding value. Customers also count on 7‑Eleven for bill payments, self-service lockers and other convenient services. Find out more online at www.7‑Eleven.com, via the 7Rewards® customer-loyalty platform on the 7‑Eleven mobile app, or on social media at FacebookTwitter and Instagram.

Contact:

7‑Eleven, Inc.
Corporate Communications
media@7-11.com

Source: 7‑Eleven, Inc.

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Pop-In@Nordstrom celebrates the holidays with MoMA Design Store gifts

Pop-In@Nordstrom celebrates the holidays with MoMA Design Store gifts

 

A Thoughtful And Innovative Gift Shop

SEATTLE, 2017-Nov-20 — /EPR Retail News/ — Pop-In@Nordstrom is celebrating the holidays with a design-centric gift shop in collaboration with The Museum of Modern Art’s MoMA Design Store, known for its curator-approved gifts that bring quality, creativity, and design innovation to everyday living. The shop opens November 17 in select Nordstrom stores and online.

Each item selected by MoMA Design Store is product-tested using real-life scenarios, and reviewed by MoMA curators. Prices range from $10 for coasters disguised as toast to $6,000 for a giant clock made up of 24 smaller, round clocks choreographed together to form one digital display.

“I’ve always been a huge fan of MoMA Design Store and their ability to thoughtfully consider the most interesting, exclusive, and enticing products from around the world and to have the opportunity to partner with them this holiday season is very exciting,” said Olivia Kim, vice president of Creative Projects at Nordstrom. “We are looking forward to seeing our customers engage with an institutional and iconic brand through a compelling and fun shopping experience and hope they love it as much as we do.”

“MoMA Design Store is thrilled to present a selection of MoMA curator-approved design objects and gifts to the incredible Pop-In@Nordstrom customer base this holiday season,” says Thomas Randon, General Manager, Retail at The Museum of Modern Art. “With such an engaging shopping format, it is a wonderful opportunity for design-conscious shoppers on the West Coast, in the Midwest, and in Canada to discover our unique products in person.”

In addition to MoMA Design Store gifts, the shop includes a selection of gifts hand-picked by Kim and her buying team spanning home, kitchen and dining, tech and gadgets, accessories, beauty, toys and games, and more. There will also be a build your own box program within the shop, allowing customers to pick five out of 25-30 featured products for a total of $50. Featured items include Christmas cards, wrapping paper, twine, stamps, toys, beauty, and more.

The shop design is a clean and simple aesthetic featuring shelving in a gradient of colors from red to magenta that changes in appearance as it is viewed from different angles.

Pop-In@Nordstrom Holidays Featuring MoMA Design Store is available in eight Nordstrom locations and online at Nordstrom.com/pop from November 17 to January 7:

  • Bellevue Square, Bellevue, Wash.
  • CF Pacific Centre, Vancouver, B.C.
  • CF Toronto Eaton Centre, Toronto, Ont.
  • Downtown Seattle, Seattle, Wash.
  • Michigan Avenue, Chicago, Ill.
  • NorthPark Center, Dallas, Texas
  • South Coast Plaza, Costa Mesa, Calif.
  • The Grove, Los Angeles, Calif.

ABOUT POP-IN@NORDSTROM

Launched in October 2013, Pop-In@Nordstrom is an ongoing series of themed pop-up shops that transitions every four to six weeks to offer a new shopping experience and batch of new, often exclusive merchandise. Pop-In takes two forms: a shop curated around a theme featuring brands across different product categories (fashion, beauty, lifestyle, home/garden, sports/outdoors, etc.), or a partnership with a single brand to bring “the world of” to customers. Pop-In@Nordstrom was built on a monthly rotation to keep customers coming back to discover new brands, new merchandise and create a fun and compelling experience in stores and online. Each shop features a mix of hand-picked merchandise spanning the high/low price range, with price points often starting at $5.

Pop-In@Nordstrom was the first initiative from the Nordstrom Creative Projects team, under the direction of Olivia Kim (vice president of Creative Projects). In her role, Kim focuses on creating energy, excitement, a sense of discovery and a bit of disruption through engaging and unique shopping experiences at Nordstrom, both in-stores and online. Kim’s Creative Projects initiatives have established Nordstrom as a platform to test retail concepts, bring limited distribution collections to customers, and introduce them to the best up-and-coming brands and new talent.

Pop-In@Nordstrom partnerships have included: Pop-In@Nordstrom partnerships have included: Aesop, Alexander Wang, Converse, Danish home goods brand HAY, design-driven wares from Los Angeles based Poketo, Everlane, Gentle Monster, goop, Hanes, home goods from Liberty London’s Flowers of Liberty collection, Nike, Opening Ceremony, rag & bone, the best of Korean fashion and beauty, Topshop/Topman, the U.S. debut of Hong Kong fashion collective I.T., the Italian Trade Commission, VANS, and Warby Parker.

ABOUT MOMA DESIGN STORE

MoMA Design Store offers curator-approved products that bring quality, creativity, and design innovation to everyday living. Every purchase supports groundbreaking exhibitions at The Museum of Modern Art(MoMA), a wide range of education programs, and the preservation of the Museum’s collection. In 1932, MoMA was the first art museum to establish a curatorial department dedicated to Architecture & Design, and by mid-century, it was playing a leading role in defining and promoting the values of “Good Design,” which MoMA Design Store continues to champion. Shop online at store.moma.org, or at our locations in SoHo, on 53rd Street, and within The Museum in New York City.

CONTACT:
Anna Brown
Nordstrom
206.303.4178

SOURCE: Nordstrom, Inc.

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Build-A-Bear Workshop unveils a very merry collection of gifts and furry friends to celebrate the holidays

Build-A-Bear Workshop unveils a very merry collection of gifts and furry friends to celebrate the holidays

 

ST. LOUIS, 2017-Nov-03 — /EPR Retail News/ —  “The Fun Before Christmas” has already begun at Build-A-Bear Workshop (NYSE:BBW), an interactive destination where Guests can create personalized furry friends, as today ( Nov. 1, 2017)  Build-A-Bear Workshop unveils a very merry collection of gifts and furry friends to celebrate the holidays the company unveiled a very merry collection of gifts and furry friends to celebrate the holidays. Enjoy festive activities in Build-A-Bear Workshop stores all season long—like signing your name to the “Nice List”—or making your own reindeer or too-cute turkey! Holiday hugs are just a Workshop (or visit to buildabear.com) away.

FUN TO MAKE, FUN TO GIVE!
Now is the time to “stuff” and “dress” our new make-your-own Gobblin’ Turkey!  Add a gobblin’ sound chip and a Thanksgiving pilgrim outfit all just in time to celebrate the holiday; then, bring the bird home from a Build-A-Bear Workshop store or find it at the new buildabear.com.

The Merry Mission reindeer are back to save the holidays once again, because the “Nice List” is so long! In addition to the eight classic reindeer, Glisten—Santa’s Star-Powered glittery white deer—returns as Color Glow Glisten with sparkly hooves, light-up antlers and a signature medallion. She is also available in a new jumbo, 21-inch version, while supplies last in stores and online. Silver Snow joins the team as a new pal who studied with Glisten at Reindeer Academy, and the darling reindeer twins, Tinsel and Twinkle, have returned to Build-A-Bear Workshop—this time with glowing fur!

BUILDABEAR.COM AND BUILDABEAR.CO.UK EXCLUSIVES
Build-A-Bear has launched a brand new website with a new, fun way to make your own furry friend using “The Bear Builder“! In addition to offering all of our holiday products on the site, we also have special items available exclusively online. For really big bear hugs, check out the new 36-inch Champ Bear. Sweet Buttercream Bear, in elegant holiday colors with soft cream fur, green eyes and shiny red paw pads, is a gift that can be perfectly personalized! Customize this furry friend with up to three lines of embroidery or a monogram to send warm wishes. Christmas Joy Bear is a holiday classic you’ll treasure for years to come. With festive paw pads, this online exclusive bear is the perfect present under the tree.

Check out all the Build-A-Bear Workshop holiday furry friends, plus new licensed products—including collections based on the hottest movies—by visiting the updated buildabear.com and buildabear.co.uk.

MAKING SEASONS BRIGHT ACROSS THE GLOBE
Build-A-Bear Workshop is adding a little more heart to life this year with help from four charitable organizations: Marine Toys for Tots Foundation, which delivers a message of hope to less fortunate children through a new toy at Christmas, in the United States; Boys and Girls Clubs of Canada, which helps young people achieve great futures in safe places where they can learn and grow, in Canada; Barnardo’s, which transforms the lives of the U.K.’s most vulnerable children, in the United Kingdom; and Barnardos Ireland, which works with vulnerable children and their families—and campaigns for the rights of all children—in Ireland.

From Friday, Dec. 1 through Sunday, Dec. 3, Build-A-Bear Workshop will host global “Stuffed with Hugs” events where Guests of U.S., Canada, U.K. and Ireland stores can make bears at no charge to be donated to Marine Toys for Tots Foundation, Boys and Girls Clubs of Canada, Barnardo’s and Barnardos Ireland, respectively.

Now through Dec. 10, Build-A-Bear Workshop Guests can donate new, unwrapped toys to Marine Toys for Tots Foundation at U.S. stores; to Boys and Girls Clubs of Canada in Canada stores; to Barnardo’s at U.K. stores; and to Barnardos Ireland at Ireland stores. Now through Dec. 24, Build-A-Bear Workshop Guests can make a donation at checkout to benefit Marine Toys for Tots Foundation in U.S. stores; to Boys and Girls Clubs of Canada in Canada stores; to Barnardo’s in U.K. stores and at Barnardos Ireland in Ireland stores at checkout.

FA-LA-LA-LA FOLLOW ALONG
Don’t miss the Build-A-Bear “Discover Adventure!” float as it travels through Manhattan during the 91stAnnual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade®. The Parade will air nationwide on NBC-TV, on Thursday, Nov. 23, 2017 from 9 a.m. – noon in all time zones. Join the new Build-A-Bear Bonus Club and follow Build-A-Bear on FacebookTwitterYouTube and Instagram to learn more about events and special promotions—including hot Black Friday deals!—happening in stores and online.

About Build-A-Bear
Founded in St. Louis in 1997, Build-A-Bear, a global brand kids love and parents trust, seeks to add a little more heart to life. Build-A-Bear Workshop has approximately 400 stores worldwide where Guests can create customizable furry friends, including company-owned stores in the United States, Canada, Denmark, Ireland, Puerto Rico, the United Kingdom and China, and franchise stores in Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, Mexico and the Middle East. The company was named to the FORTUNE 100 Best Companies to Work For® list for the ninth year in a row in 2017. Build-A-Bear Workshop, Inc. (NYSE: BBW) posted a total revenue of $364.2 million in fiscal 2016. For more information, visit buildabear.com.

Contact:

Maria Lemakis
314-4238000×5367
marial@buildabear.com

SOURCE: Build-A-Bear Workshop

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JCPenney adds LEGO building bricks and playsets in its toy shops just in time for the holidays

JCPenney adds LEGO building bricks and playsets in its toy shops just in time for the holidays

Retailer identifies the hottest gifts on Santa’s list, quadruples toy count at JCPenney.com

PLANO, Texas, 2017-Oct-30 — /EPR Retail News/ — The countdown to Christmas is on and JCPenney [NYSE: JCP] is helping Santa check off the best gifts on his list, starting with childhood-favorite LEGO® toys. Beginning in November, JCPenney will offer LEGO building bricks and playsets in 875 toy shops inside JCPenney stores. In addition to popular sets such as LEGO Star Wars and LEGO Super Heroes, shoppers will find a wider selection of LEGO toys at JCPenney.com starting in December.

Since launching the toy shops earlier this year, the Company has expanded its in-store assortment with the hottest gifts of the season, adding 40 percent more toys, games and plushes from leading brands such as Disney®, Hasbro®, Mattel®, Playmobil®, Fisher Price® and Melissa and Doug®. Additionally, JCPenney has quadrupled its online selection of toys since last holiday, giving shoppers a greater selection of motorized ride-on vehicles, outdoor play equipment, bicycles, learning sets and more at JCPenney.com.

“By working with the best toy brands in the industry, JCPenney continues to differentiate itself from the competition, giving more families a reason to visit our stores and discover the amazing selection available at JCPenney.com,” said John Tighe, executive vice president and chief merchant for JCPenney. “The holidays are hands down the most important time of year for retailers as we compete for every dollar leading up to Christmas morning. By partnering with a toy icon like the LEGO brand, JCPenney is well-positioned to capture a greater share of revenue within the toy industry, during the busiest shopping period for gifts.”

Stacking Up with LEGO
LEGO building has inspired children’s imaginations for decades as its interlocking bricks encourage creativity, learning and development. This November, JCPenney customers will find nearly 30 different LEGO sets in stores, including LEGO Classic creative building boxes, LEGO City sets and LEGO Friends sets. Prices range from $4.99 to $69.99, including a LEGO City pizza van for $19.99, a LEGO Disney Ariel and the Magical Spell set for $29.99 and a LEGO Friends summer pool scene for $39.99. An expanded selection of over 100 LEGO products will be available at JCPenney.com this December as enthusiasts of all ages search for new releases and pieces to add to their collections.

Must-Have Toys This Holiday
The toy shops inside JCPenney are packed with the must-have toys on every little one’s wish list. Appealing to a variety of ages and interests, shoppers will find family board games, character toys, baby dolls, arts and crafts, collectible surprise toys, vehicles, action figures and more featured in the latest holiday mailer that boasts eight pages dedicated to toys. On Thanksgiving Day and Black Friday, shoppers will find great discounts on toys at an incredible value, so customers can add a few extra gifts to their shopping cart. In addition to LEGO sets, some of the must-have toys inside JCPenney stores this season include:

  • Hatchimals Surprise
  • L.O.L Surprise! and Big Surprise
  • Star Wars Extendable Light Saber
  • My Little Pony Styling Head
  • JoJo Siwa Singing Doll
  • Pie Face Sky High! Game
  • NERF Mega Twinshock
  • Fashionista Barbie
  • Hotwheels Cars and Monster Trucks
  • Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle Action Figures
  • Playmobil School Bus
  • Play-Doh Drill ‘N Fill

Even More to Discover at JCPenney.com
JCPenney.com now boasts four times more toys than last holiday season with additional brands and categories planned throughout December. Based on customer feedback, the Company has expanded its assortment of toys for all ages, including motorized ride-on vehicles, bicycles, scooters, sporting goods, outdoor trampolines, costumes, electronic learning toys, arts and crafts, swing sets and video games. As science, technology, engineering and math tools continue to evolve in schools, JCPenney has also increased the number of toys designed to help kids combine STEM principles with interactive play. Check out some of the biggest gifts at JCPenney.com:

For product images, please visit: http://www.jcpnewsroom.com/news-releases/2017/1030_lego_holiday_toys.html.

LEGO, its logo, the Minifigure and the brick & knob configuration are trademarks of the LEGO Group. ©2017 The LEGO Group. Used with permission.

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JCPenney Media Relations:
(972) 431-3400 or jcpnews@jcp.com
Follow @jcpnews on Twitter for the latest announcements and Company information.

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

SOURCE:  J.C. Penney Corporation, Inc.

L Brands to hire nearly 4,000 seasonal distribution center associates for the holidays

COLUMBUS, Ohio, 2017-Aug-16 — /EPR Retail News/ — L Brands, Inc. (NYSE: LB) will be hiring nearly 4,000 seasonal distribution center associates for holiday positions.

To make it easier and faster for job applicants, L Brands has added an additional employment center to its operations with locations now open at both their Morse Road and East Broad Street campuses.

The employment centers make it easier than ever to apply for any distribution center role within the company. A true one-stop operation, qualified candidates can expect to leave with a decision about their employment and a start date, if applicable.

All open positions are located at both L Brands’ Morse Road and East Broad Street distribution centers and are welcoming applicants mid-December with opportunities for some roles to transition into year-round employment.

Employee Benefits Include:

  • Fun, engaging work environment
  • Competitive wage
  • Paid holidays after 30 days of employment
  • Up to 40 percent discount at Victoria’s Secret, PINK, Bath & Body Works, Henri Bendel and La Senza
  • Long-term employment opportunities
  • Associate referral program
  • Climate-controlled work environment
  • Variety of shift options available
  • College students eligible
  • Onsite wellness center
  • Hot meals provided during peak times

How to Apply:

  • Online (mobile and desktop): dcjobs.lb.com
  • In person at the L Brands Employment Centers:
    • Open Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
    • 8455 E. Broad St, Reynoldsburg, Ohio 43068
    • Two Limited Parkway (SE corner of Morse Rd. & 270), Columbus, Ohio, 43230
    • Hiring starts now and will continue through Dec. 16

ABOUT L BRANDS

L Brands, through Victoria’s Secret, PINK, Bath & Body Works, La Senza and Henri Bendel, is an international company.  The company operates 3,077 company-owned specialty stores in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom and Greater China, and its brands are sold in more than 750 additional franchised locations worldwide.  The company’s products are also available online  at www.VictoriasSecret.comwww.BathandBodyWorks.com,  www.HenriBendel.com and www.LaSenza.com.

For further information, please contact:
Brooke Wilson
Communications
L Brands, Inc.
614-415-6042
biwilson@lb.com

Source: L Brands, Inc./globenewswire

GameStop offers the widest selection of exclusive collectible items perfect to fill all types of stockings this holidays

GameStop offering discounts on various collectibles, games and more

GRAPEVINE, TX , 2016-Dec-15 — /EPR Retail News/ — GameStop, a family of specialty retail brands that make the most popular technologies affordable and simple, is preparing gift-givers of gamers, geeks, fanatics and more with the widest selection of exclusive collectible items, as well as a week of discounts and deals, perfect to fill all types of stockings. GameStop offers customers a convenient and affordable holiday shopping experience through its expanded line of collectible products such as Funko POP! Vinyls, t-shirts, figures, and more that can only be found at GameStop.

Customers can visit their local GameStop stores, or shop online at www.GameStop.com between December 11 and December 17 to receive discounts such as 30 percent off of all t-shirts, backpacks, and ornaments as well as buy one get one 50 percent off on select collectibles. Stocking stuffer ideas include:

  • Halo Energy Sword (only at GameStop)
  • Pokémon plushes
  • The Legend of Zelda t-shirt
  • Harley Quinn backpack
  • Various Nintendo Christmas ornaments
  • Star Wars Death Star coffee mug
  • Call of Duty socks
  • Minecraft foam roleplay sword or axe
  • Pokémon booster packs
  • Original Piggy Back phone stand
  • Star Wars Funko POP! Vinyl figures

Each holiday season, gamers of all ages seek the latest and greatest video games with hopes of discovering new worlds within their stockings. GameStop is making it easier and more affordable for last minute shoppers to make these dreams a reality. December 11 through December 17, GameStop is discounting many of the hottest video game titles such as:

  • Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare – $39.99 (reg. $59.99)
  • Grand Theft Auto V – $29.99 (reg. $59.99)
  • Titanfall 2 – $39.99 (reg. $59.99)
  • Gears of War 4 – $39.99 (reg. $59.99)
  • Dishonored 2 – $39.99 (reg.$59.99)
  • The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Complete Edition – $29.99 (reg.$49.99)
  • Watch Dogs 2 – $49.99 (reg. $59.99)
  • Overwatch Origins Edition – $39.99 (reg. $59.99)
  • Madden NFL 17 – $39.99 (reg. $59.99)

For more information on stocking stuffer gift ideas and discounts, visit a local GameStop store location or online at www.GameStop.com.

About GameStop

GameStop Corp. (NYSE: GME), a Fortune 500 company headquartered in Grapevine, Texas, is a global, multichannel video game, consumer electronics and wireless services retailer. GameStop operates more than 7,500 stores across 14 countries. The company’s consumer product network also includes www.gamestop.com; www.Kongregate.com, a leading browser-based game site; Game Informer® magazine, the world’s leading print and digital video game publication; and ThinkGeek, www.thinkgeek.com, the premier retailer for the global geek community featuring exclusive and unique video game and pop culture products. In addition, our Technology Brands segment includes Simply Mac and Spring Mobile stores. Simply Mac, www.simplymac.com, operates 70 stores, selling the full line of Apple products, including laptops, tablets, and smartphones and offering Apple certified warranty and repair services. Spring Mobile, www.springmobile.com, sells all of AT&T’s products and services, including DIRECTV through its 1,429 AT&T branded stores and offers pre-paid wireless services, devices and related accessories through its 70 Cricket branded stores in select markets in the U.S.

General information about GameStop Corp. can be obtained at the company’s corporate website. Follow @GameStop on Twitter and find GameStop on Facebook at www.facebook.com/GameStop.

Contacts:
Kyle Stephenson
GameStop Corp.
817-722-7735
KyleStephenson@Gamestop.com

Source: GameStop Corporation

Commissary industry partners collaborate with stores to offer promotional discounts for the holidays

FORT LEE, Va., 2016-Dec-12 — /EPR Retail News/ — Somewhere between the holiday decorations, the ripping of wrapping paper, the college bowl games and the hopeful New Year’s resolutions, there are a few holiday meals in the mix.

If you’re a commissary patron, you’ll have plenty to cheer about over the holidays as you count your savings while shopping for your festive menus, said Defense Commissary Agency Sales Director Tracie L. Russ.

“We encourage our patrons to use their commissary benefit to save their hard-earned pay when planning holiday meals,” Russ said. “And whether you need snacks for the bowl games or munchies for the children while they’re out of school, your commissary has what you need without breaking your festive budget in the process.”

Throughout December and into the New Year, commissary industry partners – vendors, suppliers and brokers – are collaborating with stores to offer promotional discounts beyond everyday savings for the holidays.

Commissary patrons can maximize their shopping trip simply by visiting the Sales and Events page, where they can find the “Deals for the Holidays” flyer featuring savings through Dec. 25 on the following items: various cooking and baking ingredients, smoked hams, dinner rolls, coffees, candies, cookies, juices, aluminum foil, storage and garbage bags, plastic dinnerware, paper plates, cake and pie pans, batteries and wrapping tape. The website also has recipes and cooking tips.

Although Thanksgiving has come and gone, one of the commissary’s largest worldwide promotions, the Free Turkey Coupon Booklet, continues through Dec. 31 allowing patrons to save on their holiday turkey dinners.

These industry partners have combined their efforts to help patrons earn a free fresh or frozen whole turkey when they buy holiday meal items: Kraft Heinz Company, Kellogg’s, General Mills, P&G, Heinz, Nabisco, Hefty/Reynolds Wrap, Fresh Express, Johnsonville, Ocean Spray, Pepperidge Farms, Chinet, Quaker, Del Monte, College Inn, Persil, French’s, Entemann’s, Nexium, Kimberly-Clark and Frito Lay. This coupon booklet also includes preparation tips and holiday recipes.

Commissary patrons will see another holiday promotion, “Celebrate the Holidays with General Mills – Time to cook and bake!” supported by store displays throughout December highlighting deeply discounted items with high value, in-store coupons.

And patrons with a Commissary Rewards Card have a special deal: With any purchase of four Campbell’s Chunky soup or chili can items, they can enter for a chance to win a $100 NFL Gift Card when they use their rewards card. This worldwide promotion runs through Jan. 3.

“There are plenty of things to worry about as you plan to celebrate the holidays, but saving money on your groceries won’t be one of them when you shop the commissary,” Russ said. “As always, we wish everyone a peaceful, festive holiday season, especially our men and women in uniform serving overseas.”

About DeCA: The Defense Commissary Agency operates a worldwide chain of commissaries providing groceries to military personnel, retirees and their families in a safe and secure shopping environment. Commissaries provide a military benefit and make no profit on the sale of merchandise. Authorized patrons purchase items at cost plus a 5-percent surcharge, which covers the costs of building new commissaries and modernizing existing ones. By shopping regularly in the commissary, patrons save thousands of dollars annually. A core military family support element, and a valued part of military pay and benefits, commissaries contribute to family readiness, enhance the quality of life for America’s military and their families, and help recruit and retain the best and brightest men and women to serve their country.

Media Contact:
Kevin L. Robinson
(804) 734-8000, Ext. 4-8773
kevin.robinson@deca.mil

Source:  Defense Commissary Agency

9 Christmas Gift Exchange Ideas to Trim Your Holiday Spending

NEW YORK, 2016-Dec-02 — /EPR Retail News/ — Here are a few alternative Christmas gift exchange ideas from Coupons.com savings and consumer trends expert Jeanette Pavini for you to create a fun experience while keeping your holiday spending in check. You can find even more ways to save on our Coupon Codes page and more savvy ideas on The Good Stuff!

  1. Pick a secret Santa. This game is a classic, but by only giving one gift to a family member, you can focus more on the gift-giving experience (and picking out something extra special) rather than spending money on several gifts that may or may not hit the mark. You can even up the ante by asking family members to leave secret notes and treats for the person whose name they’ve drawn leading up to December 25. Be sure to put a dollar limit on how much each person can spend on the final gift given on the holiday!
  1. Make a coupon book for family members. I love this idea because it’s personalized and can be a lot of fun depending on how creative you get! These coupons can be for “Making Your Bed for a Week,” “Doing the Dishes for 1 Week,” or “Letting You Pick the TV Show We Watch.” Choose simple things that can make other family member’s life a little easier or a little more fun!
  1. Set gift expectations early. It’s important to set gift expectation for kids early on. Let them know that even if they have a long wish list, only a few presents will show up under the tree. You can make this into a learning exercise by having your children prioritize which gifts they really want. Have them rate each gift idea by putting stickers next to them on the list, coloring in stars, or writing out why they want this particular gift more than others. You can also help your kids choose a couple toys they already have to donate to charity. This kind act makes room for a few new ones while teaching them about giving and sharing with others.
  1. Take a family trip or staycation. Instead of spending money on everyone’s presents, use the money for an outing. It can be as simple as a local trip — you’ll even find some good deals during the week between Christmas and New Year’s while the kids are still on vacation. Even if you just travel to a nearby town or a local park, it’s the act of getting away as a family. Too stressed to plan a family trip? Check out this list of easy family staycation ideas!
  1. Let your kids do the shopping. If they’re old enough, give your kids a set amount of cash, allow them time to search for deals and coupons, and then let them shop away for gifts for family.  The cash will help them learn the value of every dollar and how to stay within a set budget, plus most kids love the thrill of shopping on their own!
  1. Give back as a family. You can sponsor a family in need by making a donation through Heifer International. As a family you can provide a gift of a cow, goat, or chickens to a struggling family from another part of the world. You may also be able to sponsor a local family through your local Salvation ArmyFamilies First, or even adopt a military family for the holidays through Soldiers’ Angels. It’s a wonderful way to feel the real meaning of the holidays and do something as a family!
  1. Trade favorite recipes. For extended family, have everyone make their favorite dish or dessert and attach hand-written recipe cards — one for every member of the family. Gather together for a family meal and swap recipe cards so everyone in the family can build their own family recipe book!
  1. Share a family photo collage. Photos are one of the least expensive and most treasured gifts, in my opinion, so why not build a family photo album together? Have each member of your family print up to 10 (or more if you like!) of their favorite photos from that year for each person in your family. (That would be six copies of each photo if you’re a family of six.) Then, share your memories while enjoying time together. You can also have each family member bring an empty photo album with them to fill with the photos they receive so they can look back on their wonderful holiday experience next year.
  1. Create a family gratitude journal. Grab a beautiful journal or inexpensive notebook and set it in a public place where every member of the family has access to it. Starting on January 1 or even as early as December 1, each person will write one thing they’re thankful for in the journal each day. In 2018, you can all look back on your thankful messages together!

 

By: Jeanette Pavini – Coupons.com

Sheetz for the Kidz and The Salvation Army to make holidays brighter for underprivileged kids across Mid-Atlantic

ALTOONA, Pa., 2016-Dec-02 — /EPR Retail News/ — For the past 24 years, Sheetz for the Kidz has partnered with The Salvation Army to host Christmas parties and make the holiday season brighter for more than 100,000 underprivileged kids across the Mid-Atlantic. Sheetz for the Kidz is a 501 (c)(3) employee operated charitable organization that raises funds through in-store customer donations during the months of July and December, proceeds from Sheetz for the Kidz bottled water sales and the annual “Sheetz for the Kidz Golf Classic,” as well as, other fundraising events throughout the year.

This holiday season, each of Sheetz’s 535 stores will support 16 children from their local communities by partnering with The Salvation Army to receive wish lists from local families. Sheetz employees volunteer their time to shop, wrap and host holiday parties for the children and their families. At the holiday parties, Santa will greet the children and present them with new toys, clothes and other basic needs purchased specifically for them. The children and their families will enjoy food, crafts, games and an opportunity to take pictures with Santa.

“We are so grateful for our giving and loyal customers and the assistance from generous partners for helping us make holiday wishes come true for thousands of children in the communities we serve,” said Sarah Piper, Executive Director of Sheetz for the Kidz. “It is very important to Sheetz to give back to the communities that support us as a business, and we are honored to spread some Christmas cheer to local families. This charity was started with the goodwill of two Sheetz employees back in 1992; it’s incredible to see its growth and that the charity and the communities have now helped over 100,000 children.”

This year also marks the 12th consecutive year of Sheetz for the Kidz partnering with Make-A-Wish to sponsor families of seriously ill children so they can experience a weeklong dream vacation in Orlando, Florida. Fifty-two families will enjoy an all-expense paid vacation at Give Kids the World Village, a 70-acre, non-profit storybook resort designed to provide special facilities for seriously ill children and their families while taking in the Disney vacation of their dreams.

100 percent of customer donations go directly to supporting the children in our communities.

Ways customers can support Sheetz for the Kidz:

  • Throughout December, Sheetz offers customers an opportunity to donate at the register.
  • Purchase a Sheetz for the Kidz water – 25 cents of every bottle sold goes to support the charity.
  • Shop on AmazonSmile and select “Sheetz for the Kidz” as the charity of your choice.  Amazon will donate a portion of your purchases to Sheetz for the Kidz
  • Go to www.sheetzforthekidz.org to donate online today.

Since its beginning in 1992, Sheetz for the Kidz, previously named Sheetz Family Charities, has brought smiles to the faces of children in the communities surrounding Sheetz stores in PA, MD, OH, WV, VA and NC, through donations totaling more than $22.9 million.

About Sheetz for the Kidz
Sheetz for the Kidz is a non-profit organization, designated as a 501(c) (3) charity, independent of the Sheetz Corporation. The organization was created in 1992 by local store employees wanting to help local children.  The mission of the charity is to provide support, hope, joy and happiness to children in need within the communities in which Sheetz operates.  To date, the charity has raised more than $22.9 million and helped more than 100,000 children!

About The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army, established in London in 1865, has been supporting those in need in His name without discrimination for more than 130 years in the United States. Approximately 30 million Americans receive assistance from The Salvation Army each year through a range of social services: food for the hungry, relief for disaster victims, assistance for the disabled, outreach to the elderly and ill, clothing and shelter to the homeless and opportunities for underprivileged children. 82 cents of every dollar donated to The Salvation Army is used to support those services in 5,000 communities nationwide. The Salvation Army tracks the level of need across the country with the Human Needs Index (HumanNeedsIndex.org). For more information, go to salvationarmyusa.org or follow on Twitter @SalvationArmyUS.

About Make-A-Wish
Make-A-Wish grants the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy. According to a 2011 U.S. study of wish impact, most health professionals surveyed believe a wish come true has positive impacts on the health of children. Kids say wishes give them renewed strength to fight their illness, and their parents say these experiences help strengthen the entire family. Headquartered in Phoenix, Make-A-Wish is one of the world’s leading children’s charities, serving children in every community in the United States and its territories. With the help of generous donors and more than 27,000 volunteers, Make-A-Wish grants a wish somewhere in the country every 37 minutes. It has granted more than 254,000 wishes since its inception in 1980—more than 14,200 in 2014 alone. Visit Make-A-Wish at www.wish.org to learn more.

For further information:

Laura Hager
lhager@planitagency.com
667.219.2017

SOURCE: Sheetz, Inc.

Baskin-Robbins introduces new Ganache Poinsettia Cake and Peppermint & Winter OREO® Cookies Polar Pizza for the holidays

Baskin-Robbins introduces new Ganache Poinsettia Cake and Peppermint & Winter OREO® Cookies Polar Pizza for the holidays
Baskin-Robbins introduces new Ganache Poinsettia Cake and Peppermint & Winter OREO® Cookies Polar Pizza for the holidays

 

Brings Back Peppermint Bark in the Dark as the December Flavor of the Month

CANTON, Mass., 2016-Dec-01 — /EPR Retail News/ — Baskin-Robbins today (November 30, 2016) announced a festive lineup of frozen treats that is sure to make every ice cream lover jolly this holiday season. Baskin-Robbins is offering guests a new Ganache Poinsettia Cake, which is an elegant and decadent ganache cake topped with a wreath of Winter OREO® Cookie pieces and an icing poinsettia. Baskin-Robbins is also expanding its Polar Pizza™ Ice Cream Treat lineup for a limited time with the addition of its Peppermint & Winter OREO® Cookies Polar Pizza, which features a double fudge brownie crust with Peppermint ice cream, topped with Winter OREO® Cookie pieces and drizzled with marshmallow and fudge toppings. Both of these desserts can be pre-ordered online or in-store.

Baskin-Robbins is also bringing back Peppermint Bark in The Dark as its December Flavor of the Month. Baskin-Robbins “minted” this winter favorite by combining creamy chocolate ice cream and crunchy peppermint bark for a deliciously refreshing blast. Guests can enjoy Peppermint Bark in the Dark by the scoop, in a cup or cone, in a Warm Brownie Sundae or Warm Cookie Sundae to warm up during the cold winter months, or experience an added burst of cool with Peppermint Bark in The Dark Milkshakes and Cappuccino Blasts® beverages.

“We’re excited to introduce two new additions to our holiday lineup this year – the Ganache Poinsettia Cake and our Peppermint & Winter OREO® Cookies Polar Pizza,” said Jeff Miller, Executive Chef and Vice President of Product Innovation for Dunkin’ Brands. “The holiday season is all about creating special moments with family and friends, and we’re happy to provide guests with ice cream treats that celebrate classic seasonal flavors, like peppermint, that they can enjoy during this festive time of the year.”

Baskin-Robbins also invites guests to complement any of its holiday cakes with pre-packed quarts of ice cream or treat friends and family to a Baskin-Robbins gift card, which makes for a great stocking stuffer. Baskin-Robbins gift cards can be purchased in-store or through the Baskin-Robbins Mobile App available for iPhone and Android.

Guests can also ring in the New Year at their local Baskin-Robbins shop with the brand’s“Celebrate 31” promotion on December 31st.* On New Year’s Eve at participating Baskin-Robbins shops nationwide, guests can enjoy all regular and kids-sized ice cream scoops of any ice cream flavor, including holiday classics like Winter White Chocolate or Egg Nog, for $1.31.*

For more information about Baskin-Robbins’ wide variety of premium ice cream flavors and frozen desserts, visit www.BaskinRobbins.com or follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/BaskinRobbins), Twitter (www.twitter.com/BaskinRobbins) or Instagram (www.instagram.com/BaskinRobbins).

OREO is a registered trademark of Mondelēz International group, used under license.

* Offer valid on December 31st. Participation may vary. Scoop offer good on every size scoop. All listed flavors are optional amongst Baskin-Robbins’ stores. Waffle cones and toppings are extra. Cannot be combined with other offers. Plus applicable tax.

About Baskin-Robbins

Named the top ice cream and frozen dessert franchise in the United States by Entrepreneur magazine’s 37th annual Franchise 500(r) ranking in 2016, Baskin-Robbins is the world’s largest chain of ice cream specialty shops. Baskin-Robbins creates and markets innovative, premium hard scoop ice cream and soft serve, custom ice cream cakes and a full range of beverages, providing quality and value to consumers at more than 7,700 retail shops in nearly 50 countries. Baskin-Robbins was founded in 1945 by two ice cream enthusiasts whose passion led to the creation of more than 1,300 ice cream flavors and a wide variety of delicious treats. Headquartered in Canton, Mass., Baskin-Robbins is part of the Dunkin’ Brands Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: DNKN) family of companies. For further information, visit www.BaskinRobbins.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Justin Drake
Phone: 781-737-5200
Email:press@dunkinbrands.com

Source: Baskin-Robbins

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Tesco once again is delivering thousands of free mince pie across Britain for the holidays

The Tesco mince pie van is back and it’s delivering a very Hap-pie Christmas to people across Britain.

CHESHUNT, England, 2016-Dec-01 — /EPR Retail News/ — To help customers get into the festive spirit, the retailer is once again delivering thousands of the little festive treats, free, to people’s front doors over the next few weeks.

Visiting the length and breadth of Britain, local residents in towns and cities will be surprised and delighted with a knock on the door as the Mince Pie Man looks to drop off over 18,000 packs of mince pies ranging from Tesco Finest* to Free From, and wishing them all a Merry Christmas. Any customers not at home will receive a voucher so they can pick up their gift in their local store.

Talking about his impending Mince Pie Drop, the Mince Pie Man, Warren, said:

“I’m really excited that this pie in the sky idea worked so well last year and I’m back for a second helping. I can’t wait to spread some more Christmas cheer and get everyone in the festive mood.

“This year, I’ll be knocking on even more people’s doors handing out free packs of Tesco mince pies and wishing them a Merry Christmas.”

Notes for Editors

The Mince Pie van will be touring the following areas across the UK, delivering 1,000 mince pies per location:

  • Portsmouth
  • Exeter
  • Gloucester
  • Merthyr
  • Oakham
  • Corstorphine
  • Aberystwyth
  • East Didsbury
  • Northwich
  • Wellingborough
  • Barnstaple
  • Redditch
  • Exmouth
  • Yeovil
  • Yeading
  • Pontardawe
  • Shrewsbury
  • York

We are a team of 480,000 in 11 markets dedicated to serving shoppers a little better every day.

For more information please contact the Tesco Press Office on 01707 918 701

Source: Tesco

Cold Stone Creamery® launches Sea Salt Fudge Ice Cream and Cake Batter Ganache Ice Cream plus Sea Salt Fudge Frappe for the holidays

Sea Salt Fudge Ice Cream and Cake Batter Ganache™ Ice Cream Available for a Limited Time Only

Scottsdale, Ariz., 2016-Nov-29 — /EPR Retail News/ — The holidays are upon us and Cold Stone Creamery® (www.ColdStoneCreamery.com) is celebrating by offering customers two new decadent flavors this season: Sea Salt Fudge Ice Cream and Cake Batter Ganache Ice Cream, plus a creamy and delicious Sea Salt Fudge Frappe, available for a limited time only, in stores on November 25, 2016.

The new Sea Salt Fudge Ice Cream is the perfect complement of rich, chocolatey fudge and sea salt. Mix in Roasted Almonds, Brownie and Caramel for the Salted Fudge Decadence™ Creation™. Additionally, Cold Stone Creamery is putting a twist on their popular Cake Batter Ice Cream® with a new flavor, Cake Batter Ganache Ice Cream, which can be mixed with Yellow Cake, Chocolate Chip Cookie and Fudge for The Great Ganache™ Creation.

“Cake Batter Ganache Ice Cream is everything you love about our Cake Batter™, with the added richness of the fudge ganache flavor for this special time of year,” said Kate Unger, senior vice president of marketing for Kahala Brands™. “The Sea Salt Fudge is another must-have treat this winter, combining decadent fudge with a touch of sea salt to create a trend-worthy favorite. Our holiday flavors are always a big hit with our guests and this year will be no different. In fact, we are adding a special Frappe to the holiday line-up this year, too. We invite everyone to stop in and try the Sea Salt Fudge Frappe – it’s the perfect pick-me-up during this busy season.”

Sea Salt Fudge Ice Cream and Cake Batter Ganache Ice Cream, as well as the other promotional holiday items, will be available at Cold Stone Creamery November 25, 2016 through January 3, 2017.

Promotional Creations™
 Salted Fudge Decadence – Sea Salt Fudge Ice Cream, Roasted Almonds, Brownie and Caramel
 The Great Ganache – Cake Batter Ganache Ice Cream, Yellow Cake, Chocolate Chip Cookie and Fudge

Promotional Frappe
 Sea Salt Fudge Frappe – Ice blended coffee with Sea Salt Fudge, Whipped Topping and Chocolate Shavings

In need of a holiday cake? Pick up the Dazzling Fudge Velvet™ cake to share with family and friends. This cake has layers of moist Red Velvet Cake, Fudge and Sea Salt Fudge Ice Cream with Candy Cane Pieces wrapped in fluffy White Frosting and Fudge Ganache. “Your guests will love this cake,” said Unger. “It will definitely add some holiday sparkle to your dessert table.” Order your cake online at www.ColdStoneCreamery.com/cakes.

Cold Stone Creamery gift cards are also available, making it easy to share the Ultimate Ice Cream Experience® this holiday season. Gift cards are available for purchase in stores and online year-round. Holiday-themed gift cards are available online and in stores through the holiday season. Please visit www.ColdStoneCreamery.com/giftcardsretail.

About Cold Stone Creamery®

Cold Stone Creamery® delivers the Ultimate Ice Cream Experience® through a community of franchisees who are passionate about ice cream. The secret recipe for smooth and creamy ice cream is handcrafted fresh daily in each store, and then customized by combining a variety of mix-ins on a frozen granite stone. Headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, Cold Stone Creamery is owned by parent company Kahala Brands™, one of the fastest growing franchising companies in the world, with a portfolio of 18 quick-service restaurant concepts. The Cold Stone Creamery brand operates approximately 1,500 locations in over 28 countries.

For more information about Cold Stone Creamery®, please visit www.ColdStoneCreamery.com.

For more information about Kahala Brands™, please visit www.KahalaBrands.com.

CONTACT:
Jessica Benedick
Cold Stone Creamery
480.362.4837
jbenedick@kahalamgmt.com

Source: Cold Stone Creamery

Dollar General and Lisa Frank launches two new adult coloring posters just in time for the holidays

Dollar General and Lisa Frank launches two new adult coloring posters just in time for the holidays
Dollar General and Lisa Frank launches two new adult coloring posters just in time for the holidays

 

Goodlettsville, Tenn., 2016-Nov-29 — /EPR Retail News/ — Just in time for the holidays, Dollar General and Lisa Frank are thrilled to announce two new adult 11×16 coloring posters, a new adult coloring kit and a reprint of the four original coloring books issued earlier this summer!

Rediscover childhood memories with bright colors and scenes that only Lisa Frank can deliver! Posters and adult coloring books available at only $3 each, which make for the perfect stocking stuffer!  Adult coloring kits are $10 each and include coloring pages, a coloring book, gel pens and colored pencils.  That means the entire Lisa Frankl adult coloring collection including the kit, two posters and four coloring books may be purchased for only $28!

Items are available now in more than 13,000 Dollar General stores and online at www.dollargeneral.com/lisa-frank.html. Dollar General will also have an exclusive four-pack of the adult coloring books available for $12 each available online on Thursday, December 1!

The Lisa Frank coloring collection are great gifts to provide an afternoon of childhood nostalgia. Purchase your collection at your local Dollar General store or online today!

About Dollar General Corporation
Dollar General Corporation has been delivering value to shoppers for over 75 years through its mission of Serving Others. Dollar General helps shoppers Save time. Save money. Every day!® by offering products that are frequently used and replenished, such as food, snacks, health and beauty aids, cleaning supplies, clothing for the family, housewares and seasonal items at low everyday prices in convenient neighborhood locations. Dollar General operated over 13,000 stores in 43 states as of October 28, 2016. In addition to high quality private brands, Dollar General sells products from America’s most-trusted manufacturers such as Procter & Gamble, Kimberly-Clark, Unilever, Kellogg’s, General Mills, Nabisco, Hanes, PepsiCo and Coca-Cola. Learn more about Dollar General at www.dollargeneral.com.

For Media Inquiries:
Email: dgpr@dollargeneral.com
Call: 1-877-944-3477

Source: Dollar General

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Red Button Vintage Creamery Premium Pies launches seven new varieties of premium pies just in time for the holidays

Salt Lake City, UT, 2016-Nov-02 — /EPR Retail News/ — The holidays just got a little sweeter thanks to Red Button Vintage Creamery Premium Pies. The Utah company is launching seven new varieties of the award-winning pies just in time later this month. New flavors include: Banana Cream, Coconut Cream, French Silk, Lemon Meringue, Turtle Pie, Apple Cranberry and Pumpkin Pie. The premium pies are available at more than 300 Associated Food Stores retailers.

“Pie is a staple of the holidays and we are excited to bring more flavors, including the classic pumpkin pie, to our guests just in time for Thanksgiving,” said Boyd Irving, director of exclusive brands for AFS.

Launched in 2016, Red Button Vintage Creamery Premium Pies are created through a partnership with Rocky Mountain Pies and are made exclusively in Utah. Each pie is made with the freshest ingredients including fresh fruit, cane sugar and many include flavor-infused crusts. Most of the pies total approximately four pounds and are ready to bake and serve. The seven new flavors join the six original pies: Dazzleberry, Cherry Almond Praline, Apple Crumb, Peach Blueberry, Pineapple Upside down and Sea Salt Caramel Crumb. Earlier this year, Red Button Vintage Creamery Premium Pies received blue ribbons at the National Pie Championship.

To learn more about Red Button Vintage Creamery Pies and to find a retailer near you, visit www.redbuttoncreamery.com

About Associated Food Stores
Associated Food Stores is an independent retailer-owned warehouse based in Salt Lake City, Utah, which provides complete warehouse facilities and services to over 400 grocers throughout the Intermountain West. To learn more about Associated Food Stores or to find a retailer near you, visit www.afstores.com.

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

Source: Red Button Vintage Creamery

Red Button Vintage Creamery launches six seasonal ice cream flavors for the holidays

Salt Lake City, UT, 2016-Oct-17 — /EPR Retail News/ — Red Button Vintage Creamery is bringing the taste of the holidays to shoppers with six seasonal ice cream flavors. Starting in October, Candy Cane, Egg Nog and Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake ice cream will be available with two additional flavors, Orange Stick and White Chocolate Cranberry, arriving near the first of November. The seasonal flavors, as well as the entire line up of Red Button Vintage Creamery ice cream, will be available at the great price of two for $7 throughout November and December exclusively at Associated Food Stores’ retailers.

“We all associate specific flavors with different holidays. Pumpkin spice in the Fall and egg nog at Christmas-time. We are excited to bring those tastes to our premium ice cream in a treat the whole family can enjoy regardless of the weather,” said Boyd Irving, director of exclusive brands for Associated Food Stores.

Red Button Vintage Creamery launched in July 2015 with the first eighteen flavors of premium ice cream developed through a partnership between Associated Food Stores and Casper’s Creamery. Today, the premium ice cream is available in 28 flavors year round including Sea Salt Carmel Pretzel, Sprinkled Animal Cookie and now Pistachio. The brand is exclusively available at more than 300 Associated Food Stores retailers including Lin’s, Macey’s, Dan’s, Dick’s Market, Fresh Market, Peterson’s and Stokes. For more information about Red Button Vintage Creamery ice cream or to find a retailer near you, visit www.redbuttoncreamery.com.

About Associated Food Stores
Associated Food Stores is an independent retailer-owned warehouse based in Salt Lake City, Utah, which provides complete warehouse facilities and services to over 400 grocers throughout the Intermountain West. To learn more about Associated Food Stores or to find a retailer near you, visit www.afstores.com.

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

Source: Associated Food Stores

NRF and Hackett Associates report: Import cargo volume to increase this month as merchants stock up for the back-to-school season

WASHINGTON, 2016-Jul-14 — /EPR Retail News/ — Import cargo volume at the nation’s major retail container ports should see a small-but-significant increase this month as merchants stock up for the back-to-school season, then see a larger wave in late summer and fall for the holiday shopping season, according to the monthly Global Port Tracker report released today by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates.

“Back-to-school and the holidays are the two biggest shopping seasons of the year for retailers and these numbers reflect that,” NRF Vice President for Supply Chain and Customs Policy Jonathan Gold said. “After a year of difficult comparisons in the wake of the West Coast ports slowdown, we’re finally starting to see normal trends. Some numbers are still down from last year, but the pattern of building up toward the big seasons has returned.”

Ports covered by Global Port Tracker handled 1.63 million Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units in May, the latest month for which after-the-fact numbers are available. That was up 12.8 percent from April and 1.1 percent from May 2015. One TEU is one 20-foot-long cargo container or its equivalent.

June was estimated at 1.56 million TEU, down 0.5 percent from the same month last year. July is forecast at 1.64 million TEU, up 1.4 percent from last year; August at 1.65 million TEU, down 2 percent; September at 1.58 million TEU, down 2.6 percent; October at 1.62 million TEU, up 4.4 percent, and November at 1.52 million TEU, up 2.8 percent. Even though volume will be lower than the same month last year, August is expected to be the peak shipping month of the year.

The first half of 2016 is expected to total 8.99 million TEU, up 1.5 percent from the same period in 2015. Total volume for 2015 was 18.2 million TEU, up 5.4 percent from 2014.

“Trade is holding on to a small margin of growth, but this growth comes in the face of some adverse statistics as well as positive ones,” Hackett Associates Founder Ben Hackett said. “The good news is that retail sales have remained positive as the consumer continues to cautiously spend. The hope is that this spending will continue.”

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’s This is Retail campaign highlights the industry’s opportunities for life-long careers, how retailers strengthen communities, and the critical role that retail plays in driving innovation. 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

Rite Aid extends shopping hours to help customers complete their shopping lists

Many Rite Aid Stores Nationwide Offer Extended Shopping Hours From 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Through Dec. 23

CAMP HILL, Pa., 2015-12-17 — /EPR Retail News/ — From now through Dec. 23, select Rite Aid stores nationwide are offering extended shopping hours to help customers complete their shopping lists. From family to friends, school teachers and coworkers, Rite Aid’s 4,600 convenient locations will have the perfect gift for everyone on your list.

Sweet Holiday Treats
Give the gift of chocolate this holiday with decadent boxed chocolates from Ferrero Rocher, Russell Stover, Lindt, Queen Anne chocolate covered cherries, Ghirardelli peppermint bark squares or Whitman’s assorted chocolate sampler. Fill the stockings with novelty chocolate and candy items with holiday classics such as candy canes in a variety of flavors, chocolate Santas and Hershey’s Kisses.

Perfect for teachers or coworkers, Rite Aid carries assorted holiday food and gift sets featuring favorite movies such as Star Wars and Frozen and brands like Starbucks and Swiss Miss. Customers will also find great deals on popular holiday treats including Planter’s Peanut Holiday 3-packs, 24 oz. Holiday popcorn tins in a variety of designs and characters, Royal Dansk Butter Cookies and red and green M&M’s, perfect for any candy dish.

Toys for All Ages
Rite Aid’s KidStuff line offers an assortment of toys for kids of all ages. Games, arts and crafts, cuddly plush, puzzles and more available in favorites such as Mickey and Minnie, Frozen, Star Wars, My Little Pony and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. For preschoolers, shoppers will find a variety of Fisher Price toys and building block sets. For the older kids, Rite Aid carries mini hockey tables, cars, trucks, helicopters and motorcycles. Fun jewelry, bead and scrapbooking sets, puppy carriers, Shopkins and baby dolls can also be found on Rite Aid’s shelves.

Electronic Gifts
From now until Christmas, Rite Aid’s offering great deals on Craig tablets, netbooks, a 19-inch flatscreen television and 27-inch tower speaker, along with the popular Atari and Sega Genesis systems complete with games. Help them recharge this holiday with stocking stuffers including ear buds, car and wall chargers for techies.

Beauty Gifts
Customers will find great savings on a wide assortment of fragrances from favorites such as Katy Perry and Vera Wang and even designers like Dolce & Gabbana and Versace. Be sure not to miss the holiday cosmetic gift sets from Wet n’ Wild, a broad selection of bath gifts sets including Dove, Caress and Nivea and a variety of curling irons.

Gift Card Specials
Can’t find the perfect gift? With over 180 to choose from, Rite Aid has a large selection of gift cards for anyone on the list. Popular for this year include Macy’s, Toys R Us, Applebee’s, Olive Garden, Starbucks, Google Play, iTunes, Gap, Old Navy, Home Depot, Lowes and Rite Aid, along with the American Express and Vanilla Visa gift cards.

Rite Aid Corporation (NYSE: RAD) is one of the nation’s leading drugstore chains with nearly 4,600 stores in 31 states and the District of Columbia and fiscal 2015 annual revenues of $26.5 billion. Information about Rite Aid, including corporate background and press releases, is available through the company’s website at www.riteaid.com.

# # #

Contact:

Media: Kristin Kellum 717-975-5713

Staples offers great last-minute gifts and deals throughout the holidays

Staples Customers Can Find Savings on Last Minute Gifts and Stocking Stuffers Including Same Day Personalized Items

FRAMINGHAM, Mass., 2015-12-9 — /EPR Retail News/ —  From the Inner Geek to the Fashion-Forward co-worker, Staples (Nasdaq: SPLS) makes more for less happen this holiday season with great last-minute gifts and deals throughout the holidays. Staples customers will find savings on gifts, from the latest technology accessories and affordable stocking stuffers to same-day customized products from Staples Copy & Print centers. Plus, last minute shoppers can package and ship their gifts at the UPS service counter located in every Staples store. Check out the Staples weekly ad for all the latest savings: www.staples.com/weeklyad.

“We’re giving our customers more for less this holiday season with exceptional savings on a great selection of stocking stuffers and last minute gifts,” said Peter J. Scala, executive vice president – merchandising, Staples. “At Staples, we know our customers are busy so we offer convenient solutions for their holiday shopping needs including a buy online and pick up in store option, Price Match Guarantee, and free shipping for our Staples Rewards members during the holidays and everyday.”

Last-minute gift ideas for everyone, including:

The Inner Geek: In celebration of the new Star Wars episode “The Force Awakens” entering the galaxy, Staples will carry Limited Edition Moleskine Star Wars VII Notebooks($24, in select stores and on Staples.com), so customers can snag new memorabilia for their Star Wars obsessed friends. Or add some fun to your airspace with the indoor/outdoor Quad Micro Drone ($39.99, in select stores). Give the gift of major tech convenience with the Voxx Myris Eyelock, a USB powered Iris Identity Authenticator. The recipient will never have to type a password again and can easily keep nosy siblings out of their digital world ($279.99, in select stores and Staples.com).

Fashionistas: Stylish office accessories can spruce up any space. Find the latest Style at Staples collection from Cynthia Rowley exclusively at Staples. Beautiful notebooks, frames, pens and organizational solutions are available from top designers and brands like Cynthia Rowley, Paperchase and Poppin. Give a chic Dark Floral Cynthia Rowley Desktop Organizer ($19.99, in select stores) or a Dark Romance Paperchase Cosmetic Case to keep makeup products stylishly stashed ($14.99, in select stores and Staples.com).

Close Family & Friends: Nothing says “personal gift” like custom-made photo products! Consider creating something unique at Staples Copy & Print. From customized mugs, tote bags and magnets to same-day 12-month photo wall calendars, there are so many affordable options to make more personalization happen for less at Staples. Or choose a classic gift that brings back memories like a timeless Etch a Sketch ($14.99) or Lite Brite ($19.99) in select stores.

Up and Coming Techie: Staples makes hot technology gifts happen for less with tech accessories that won’t break the bank. Give the up and coming techie on your list a fun gift like the Selfie Stick ($10, in select stores and Staples.com) or consider the KidLid protective laptop to keep computers safe while being used by small children ($29, in select stores and Staples.com). The HMDX Audio Rave Rechargeable Bluetooth Speaker wirelessly connects with smartphones, tablets and notebooks with a range of 30 feet – a great choice at a fantastic price ($39.99, in select stores at Staples.com).

Tech Enthusiast: Give the gift of fitness with the FitBit Charge HR Heart Rate + Activity Wristband to kick off 2016 right! The Charge HR gives automatic, continuous heart rate and activity tracking right from the wrist ($149.99, in select stores). Beats by Dr. Dre Wireless On Ear Headphones are a great gift idea for the hard to buy for on your list ($279.95, in select stores and Staples.com).

Don’t forget about last minute shipping. Staples has you covered with convenient package drop off seven days a week, packaging and shipping materials, and UPS service counters in all stores. Ship your packages via UPS overnight by December 23 to arrive in time for Christmas. Check package drop-off times at your local store to ensure timely delivery.

About Staples:
Staples makes it easy to make more happen with more products and more ways to shop. Through its world-class retail, online and delivery capabilities, Staples lets customers shop however and whenever they want, whether it’s in-store, online, on mobile devices, or through the company’s innovative buy online, pick-up in store option. Staples offers more products than ever, such as technology, facilities and breakroom supplies, furniture, safety supplies, medical supplies, and Copy and Print services. Headquartered outside of Boston, Staples operates throughout North and South America, Europe, Asia, Australia and New Zealand. More information about Staples (SPLS) is available at www.staples.com.

Source: Staples

Staples
Kristy Houston, 508-253-8468
Kristine.Houston@Staples.com
or
Carrie McElwee, 508-253-1405
Carrie.McElwee@Staples.com

Kmart refreshed its mobile app in time for the Holidays

Kmart App Makes Shopping Fun, Easy and Seamless By Connecting In-Store, Online and On-the-Go

HOFFMAN ESTATES, III., 2015-11-26 — /EPR Retail News/ — To kick off the busiest shopping week of the year, Kmart has refreshed its mobile app with easy-to-use features designed to help shoppers cross everything off their shopping lists. As an added convenience, free shipping is available on Kmart online orders of $35 or more (previously $49).

“Mobile continues to play an important role in the shopping mix. In fact, mobile’s share of our online sales has increased 100 percent year-over-year,” said Leena Munjal, senior vice president, Customer Experience and Integrated Retail at Sears Holdings. “We’ve added features and updates to our mobile app, making it easier than ever for our members to shop, earn points and get the best deals online, in-store or through their smartphones.”

National Retail Federation data shows that mobile is set to play an important role in all phases of the holiday shopping experience. A survey found that 22 percent of shoppers planned to purchase on mobile during the season, the highest since NRF began asking the question in 2011. Thirty-eight percent of shoppers said they’ll be using smartphones to research purchases, and 20 percent will use them to look up product availability in store.

New mobile app features and benefits for Shop Your Way® members include:

  • Bluelight Specials: The Bluelight is back! Receive real-time push notifications announcing Bluelight Specials exclusive to Kmart.com. With a phone in-hand, members can feel the thrill of Bluelight anytime, anywhere. As soon as a Bluelight Special is available online, users who opt in for push notifications will receive item details and can make a purchase directly from the app.
  • Free Friday Fix: Using the Kmart app, receive an exclusive coupon on Fridays to redeem in store for a free item with qualifying purchase, while supplies last*.
  • Free Store Pickup & Pay in Store: For added convenience, members can shop online and pick up their purchases in-store for free with Free Store Pickup. Another option, Pay In Store, allows members to reserve items online, pay however they wish in store (cash, check, credit card or gift card) and leave with their order (or shipment confirmation if they prefer to ship items home).
  • Layaway & Go: This year, put items on layaway and make weekly payments faster than ever with the new Layaway and Go app feature. Scan products from the app and add to a layaway list, no need to haul products to the layaway counter. Shoppers can also open up a layaway contract through Nov. 29 for just one penny down online**. For more information, visit www.kmart.com/layaway.
  • Mobile Coupons: Through the “Coupon Center,” it is easy to find and apply the best deals and exclusive savings through your mobile app. Simply load applicable coupons to your Shop Your Way account, where they will automatically get applied at checkout – through the app, online or in-store.

Kmart members will earn $5 off in Shop Your Way points toward a purchase of $35 or more*** by simply downloading or updating the app. Shop Your Way membership is free and sign-up is available in-store, online or via the Kmart app.

The new mobile app is available for download in the Apple App Store and Google Play. For more information, please visit www.kmart.com/mobile, or follow the conversation on Facebook,Instagram and Twitter using #ShoppingIsFunAgain.

 *This offer is not available every Friday
**Offer valid on new layaway contracts through Sunday 11/29/15. No down payment required in store.  One penny down required online for layaway only. All fees nonrefundable. Cancellation fees apply, except Ohio. Layaway requires biweekly payments. Exclusions also apply. See store for details.
*** $5 in Shop Your Way points must be used within 7 days of when the points are issued.

About Kmart
Kmart is making shopping fun again. The retailer, a subsidiary of Sears Holdings Corporation (NASDAQ: SHLD), is bringing back the iconic Bluelight Specials, hosting Freebie Saturdays and in-store family events for its Shop Your Way members and customers. Kmart offers customers thrilling deals and amazing finds on quality products and exclusive brands including Jaclyn Smith, Joe Boxer, Route 66 and Smart Sense. For more information, visit www.kmart.comwww.searsholdings.com and www.facebook.com/kmart.

About Shop Your Way
Shop Your Way® is a free social shopping destination and rewards program offering millions of products, personalized services, and advice. Through a network of retail partners and service providers, members can shop, compare, purchase items and earn points to use on future purchases. Members also enjoy special pricing, exclusive sales, events, access to celebrity brands and sweepstakes. And through the unique social community on shopyourway.com members can research and browse products, create wish lists, poll friends and family and even get advice from experts to help choose the products and services that best meet their needs. There is no minimum purchase required for Shop Your Way® members to redeem points and points can be used toward purchases across countless product categories. Download the free Shop Your Way app available on iTunes or Google Play. There is no minimum purchase required for Shop Your Way members to redeem points and points can be used toward purchases across countless product categories. Download the free Shop Your Way app available on iTunes or Google Play. By accepting Shop Your Way member benefits and offers, you agree to the Shop Your Way terms and conditions, available at www.shopyourway.com/terms.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Sara Weitz
Kmart
847-286-0774
Sara.Weitz@searshc.com

Annika Tunberg
Zeno Group for Kmart
312-527-2SHC (2742)
Annika.Tunberg@zenogroup.com

SOURCE Kmart

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Kmart refreshed its mobile app in time for the Holidays

Kmart refreshed its mobile app in time for the Holidays

Starbucks employees to organize community service projects during the holidays

SEATTLE, 2014-12-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — The ‘most wonderful time of the year’ can also be the most difficult time of the year for families in need.

Starbucks partners (employees) step in to help by organizing community service projects during the holidays. From collecting and distributing food to families to leading toy drives and packing gift boxes for military service members, the efforts are a reflection of the volunteer work partners worldwide do throughout the year.

“When partners get out of the store and volunteer their time with people in the community, it builds wonderful relationships,” said Bobi Jo Warner, a Starbucks store manager in Canada who has been with the company for 15 years.

Warner and her cousin Tara McCormick, who is also a Starbucks store manager in Edmonton, Alberta, volunteer with Little Warriors. The charitable organization is committed to the awareness, prevention and treatment of children who’ve been sexually abused.

Starbucks partners helped renovate a building at the charity’s Be Brave Ranch which supports children between the ages of eight and 12 through counseling and activities such as music and expressive art therapies.

“The renovation project is so close to my heart and I wanted to be part of it,” said McCormick. “It was one women’s dream to make sure the pain that these children go through doesn’t stop them from living their lives. It’s a healing place, a safe place for the children.”

The motivation to start Little Warriors seven years ago was personal for Glori Meldrum.  Nearly 24 years after being sexually abused, the entrepreneur and owner of an advertising agency founded the long-term treatment center for children.

Meldrum intends to raise $2.5 million in the coming year to fund the specialized counseling which can cost almost $25,000 for each child. Currently, the program supports 70 children and their families.

“This journey is about love and I have seen so many miracles along the way,” Meldrum said. “We are so grateful for all the help the Little Warriors receive from Starbucks partners who volunteer and spend so many hours helping our children and families.”

Starbucks partners, tell us about a volunteer project in your community and send photos to Newstips@starbucks.com

For more information on this news release, contact the Starbucks Newsroom.

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Starbucks employees to organize community service projects during the holidays

Starbucks employees to organize community service projects during the holidays

Lauren Klein Jewelry Introduces Gold Jewelry for the Holidays

Lauren Klein, a leading online retailer of designer jewelry, rates the winter holiday season its busiest, along with Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day. Hot items this year in both men’s and women’s jewelry and accessories include yellow gold and yellow gold and diamond combinations. From personalized and monogrammed jewelry, Lauren Klein offers early holiday shoppers a hassle-free shopping experience, f r o m the comfort of their own homes. In addition, customers using the code “NOV09” will receive a 15% discount off their entire order.

“At Lauren Klein, all that glitters is gold this season, as jewelry still ranks one of the most popular and classy gifts around,” said Sarah Leight, manager, Lauren Klein. “Holiday party goers who want to dress up their ensembles can choose f r o m the most exciting new styles this season as we are continually adding new and inspired selections to our inventory throughout the year.”

Lauren Klein’s selection of gold and diamond heart-shaped jewelry will set hearts aflutter this holiday season, with the magical allure of jewelry boxes transporting the likes of Monogram Hammered Yellow Gold Heart necklace to a Citrine Heart and Diamond Bezel Dangle Necklace, with matching earrings, to a variety of fashionable yellow gold necklaces.

Featuring treasured keepsake gifts such as monogrammed jewelry for men and women and diamond necklaces to take her breath away, Lauren Klein has a gift for everyone’s wish list. Some of the popular gift items this year include an unexpected pairing of leather and diamonds in the collection of leather bracelets. Whether engagement, promise or costume, a ring makes a great gift, and just about any style can be personalized with the gemstone of choice.

Lauren Klein specializes in all types of jewelry — whatever the style, Lauren Klein has it all. F r o m traditional diamond jewelry to trendy fashion jewelry, Lauren Klein carries only the best selection of women’s jewelry — rings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, anklets and baby jewelry — at the most competitive prices. The company’s new Monogram Collection offers personalized jewelry for that extra special touch.

The finest collection of jewelry available to the public is also backed by Lauren Klein’s incomparable experience rooted in the fine jewelry industry. As a customer-focused company, Lauren Klein strives to bring the highest quality products directly to consumers to ensure their satisfaction is exceeded. With more than half a century of heritage in the diamond industry, this family operation began its ecommerce business on eBay and Amazon. After great success, Lauren Klein showcases its entire jewelry collection on Laurenklein.com.

To receive a 15% discount of purchases, enter code NOV09 at checkout.

Via EPR Network
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Big Smile Toys’ Winter Toy Catalog Rings in the Holidays

BigSmileToys.com, a leading online toy store, announced today that it has released its winter toy catalog just in time for the busy holiday season. The full-color catalog features the arrival of popular and educational toys and games. The convenience of shopping online, especially during flu season, allays parents’ fears of going out in public places, while the printed catalog gives children plenty of holiday gift ideas from which to choose.

“Busy parents are increasingly shopping online for gifts and other purchases, and those who grew up anticipating the arrival of a favorite toy store catalog can now share that experience with kids,” says Steve Scartozzi, president BigSmileToys.com, who fondly recalls his own favorite holiday memories of looking through the season’s newest kids toys and circling the gifts he hoped to find under the tree.

BigSmileToys.com brings back this tradition, with the release of its winter toy catalog, which is chock full of toys that are likely to be on every child’s wish list. The catalog aids children and their parents in better communicating on gift selection and can minimize disappointment once the wrapping paper comes off.

BigSmileToys.com’s winter catalog features some of the most popular names in children’s playtime for boys and girls. Hot toys for boys this holiday season include fun play sets like Playmobil’s Egyptian Pyramid or Police Headquarters, K’s Kids Pull Back Autos and Bruder Mack Dumptruck. For the girls, the selection includes a full selection of dolls and dollhouses, as well as arts and craft sets and make your own jewelry packs. BigSmileToys.com also carries a full selection of educational sets such as one of Thames & Cosmos Kid’s Chemistry Sets and do-it-yourself kite, plane or rocket kits.

Based in suburban Philadelphia, BigSmileToys.com features an extensive line of children’s toys, games, books, plushes, puppets and even sporting equipment for purchase. With more than 48 years of experience, BigSmileToys.com operates on the idea that fun + learning = smiles and offers products which follow these principles. Learn more and search for products at www.bigsmiletoys.com.

Via EPR Network
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Find The Perfect Wedding Favor For Winter, Holiday And Traditional Weddings

www.AmericanBridal.com, the Internet’s most expansive collection of unique and affordable wedding favors, announced today the availability of a selection of holiday inspired wedding party gifts, winter wedding favors and gifts, including Christmas tree ornaments, snowflake shaped favors, and personalized holiday favor boxes and favors that double as keepsake ornaments.

“The holidays are a magical time of year to plan a wedding, but it can also be very hectic, stressful and costly. Our goal is to help couples find the perfect wedding favors for their dream holiday-themed weddings at prices that work well within holiday budgets,” said Shirley Tan, CEO, AmericanBridal.com“Guests will be delighted by their holiday inspired favors that commemorate a couple’s special day, for many seasons to come.”

Our selection of holiday ornament style wedding favors and gifts includes Snow Flurry Flocked Ornaments, Silver Snowflake Bookmark, Snowflake Place Card holder/ornament, and Classic round ornament or geometric shaped place card holders. Scented Pine Cone favors, Scented Pine Cone Sachet and Merry Mitten Sachet favors infuse the air with winter scents, while invigorating Snow Cone Bath Salts, Christmas Tree Soap favors and Snowflake Guest Soap favors add a festive touch to reception tables.

Edible holiday favors include Holiday Mint Tins that come in lavender, ivory, pink, light blue, white and black, and with a choice of candy mints, breath mints, fruit tarts or gum mints. Chocolate lovers favor gourmet Personalized Wedding Chocolate Favors that come in divine dark chocolate with gold foil or creamy milk chocolate in sliver foil, or the option to purchase just the wrappers at a reduced price. Snuggle up on a cozy winter night with customized beverage mix packets including cappuccino and hot cocoa mix or Wintry Wedding Cocktail Mix in Cosmopolitan or Margarita flavors. Personalized Hershey Kiss favors come in Kissing Snow Couple, Snowflake and Loving Mittens varieties.

Light the flames of love with a variety of candle favors for the holidays. “Snow in Love” tea lights favors, Snowflake Gel Candles and “Icing on the Cake” winter wedding cake candle favors come in sets of four. Individual Snowflake candles make the perfect favor for elegant winter nuptials. Flared Snowflake shot glass favors, Snowflake Wine Bottle Stopper favors and Snowflake Glass Photo Coasters favors and Crystal Snowflake Coaster favors, tape measure favors round out the selection of snowflake designs.

For a finishing touch that leaves a lasting impression, holiday wedding favor boxes come in several styles such as snowflake favor box (with choice of candy filling), embossed elegance snowflake favor box, pine cone shaped favor boxes, snowflake take out favor boxes, and Eat, Drink and Be Merry favor boxes.

In addition to the holiday and winter collection of wedding favors, AmericanBridal.com offers the most extensive collection of wedding favors and accessories such as party favors, bridal shower favors wedding invitations, personalized gifts, wedding ideas, wedding flowers, cake toppers, thank you cards, wedding guest favors, shower favors, wedding jewelry, wedding decorations, wedding centerpieces, bridal shower games, wedding programs, bridal jewelry, bridal shower invitations, place cards, usher gifts, wedding albums, wedding announcements, favor boxes, unity candle, wedding anniversary gift, wedding checklist, wedding bells, wedding napkins, wedding veils and much more.

Via EPR Network
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