J’ai un rythme de vie que je ne changerais pour rien au monde, parce que j’adore ce que je fais. Courir aux lancements, assister à des défilés, faire des apparitions à deux événements dans la même soirée ou me changer trois fois par jour selon les occasions, c’est essoufflant mais passionnant. Même si je dois rendre visite à mes anciens boutchoux pour être certaine de pouvoir tout payer, même si je manque de sommeil, même si gérer mon travail à partir de la maison est plus difficile que je pensais, même si je mange trop de toasts au beurre de peanut et que je manque toutes mes séries préférées parce que je ne suis jamais présente en soirée: J’aime ce que je fais.

Mais. Mais. Mais. Je sais que je suis stressée. Dans ma vie perso je suis zeeeeen… Pour tout le reste, c’est une autre histoire!

Vendredi dernier j’ai eu la chance d’aller passer trois heures au Spa Scandinave situé dans le vieux-montréal. Trois heures pour moi toute seule, pour me chouchouter, pour me ressourser. Ma meilleure amie m’avait fait promettre de ne pas emmener mon blackberry, je me suis retenue pour ne pas traîner mon portable dans le sauna (il n’aurait pas apprécié, hein!) et la seule chose qui pouvait me rappeler le boulot était le livre que j’ai dévoré pendant les moments de repos: Avec Style, par Louise Labrecque.

J’étais déjà allée quelques fois dans un spa. J’avais aimé. Sans plus. Pour moi, spa était synonyme de grand bain tourbillon dans lequel il est presque impossible de bouger parce qu’une foule dense prend toute la place et que des employés doivent circuler pour s’assurer que personne ne se taponne dans un coin. Presque reposant!

En arrivant au Spa Scandinave, mon opinion a changé. Un vrai petit bout de paradis en plein coeur du vieux-montréal m’a accueilli dans une ambiance intime et chaleureuse. Le personnel est professionnel et discret, j’avais à peine posé les pieds dans le vestiaire que je ressentais déjà un certain bien-être.

En suivant les principes de la thermothérapie, j’ai effectué plusieurs fois le parcours recommandé. Premièrement, vingt minutes réservées au réchauffement de mon corps afin de dilater les vaisseaux sanguins situés à la surface de la peau, ce qui a pour effet d’augmenter la température du corps et de créer une transpiration abondante qui nettoie la peau. Pour cette première étape, j’avais le choix entre le bain vapeur à l’eucalyptus, le sauna finlandais ou les bains à hydrojets. Les trois sont divins!

Par la suite, il faut resserrer les pores de la peau. Pour se faire, un rinçage rapide à l’eau très froide est nécessaire, sous une douche ou dans un bain. Je suis extrêmement frileuse, mais j’ai combattu ma peur du froid et si ces 30 secondes furent de la torture sur le coup, par la suite je me suis sentie enveloppée d’un bien-être indescriptible, dû à ce changement de température soudain.

Pour permettre à notre corps de se reposer et à notre système cardio-vasculaire de se régulariser, un minimum de quinze minutes de repos sont nécessaires après ces deux premières étapes. Les aires spécialement emménagées offrent le confort idéal pour se sentir en forme et prêt à recommencer un nouveau cycle. C’est aussi le bon moment pour manger une bouchée au bar à jus, et surtout pour goûter aux délicieux smoothies offerts sur place. J’ai eu la chance d’en prendre un beurre d’arachide et banane… j’en rêve encore!

Je suis ressortie du spa en ayant l’air d’une zombie. Et je n’exagère pas une miette! Je marchais légèrement, la tête dans les nuages… je souriais même alors que je ne pensais strictement à rien. J’étais dans le métro sans avoir envie de crier après tous ceux qui me bousculaient, je suis rentrée et je crois que ma coloc s’est demandée si je n’étais pas amoureuse vu mon sourire fendu jusqu’aux oreilles! Mais non, c’était tout simplement plus fort que moi.

Je vous recommande à 100% de tester les services de ce spa de luxe. N’hésitez pas à visiter le site internet pour plus de détails sur les services offerts:
http://www.scandinavemontreal.com/

Et maintenant… Le concours!

Chers lecteurs, je sais qu’après avoir lu mon expérience détente vous espérez avoir la chance de vivre la même chose. Imaginez-vous donc que Spa Scandinave offre aux lecteurs d’Elle M la Mode la chance de gagner un des trois duos de laissez-passer (une valeur de 2 x 46$) qui vous permettront de venir vous détendre trois heures en compagnie d’une personne que vous aimez!

Pour participer au concours, vous n’avez qu’à laisser un commentaire ci-dessous en m’expliquant avec qui vous iriez vous faire dorloter et pourquoi. Les gagnants seront tirés au sort Vendredi 27 Novembre à Midi.

Bonne chance!

À lire aussi:
Les nouveaux Masques Cocktails, de Lise Watier
Une autre belle expérience chez Bruno Desjardins
Face à Face, par Marcelle

]]> http://zglobalmart.wordpress.com/2009/11/24/z-global-mart-international-fashion-apparel-trade-show-opens-the-doors-to-exhibitors/ Tue, 24 Nov 2009 19:33:43 +0000 zglobalmart http://zglobalmart.wordpress.com/2009/11/24/z-global-mart-international-fashion-apparel-trade-show-opens-the-doors-to-exhibitors/

She just bought 5,000 shirts from the comfort of her chair

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PR Log (Press Release) – Nov 24, 2009 – Tired of the high costs of trades shows, the traveling, the disruption to your business, too many trade shows with no guarantee of success? The fashion industry’s old way of doing business is out of style. Join us in the new era of fashion.

Z Global Mart the International Fashion Apparel WholesaleTrade Show where exhibitors have a booth open 365 days 24/7 and attendees, wholesale clothing buyers, can shop from wherever and whenever they want from the comfort of their chair for the latest in fashion designers lines, fashion accessories and sourcing services.

We all know that physical trade shows are an important part of anyone’s campaign, but the costs are so high, there are too many (149 worldwide in September alone), not to mention the disruption to one’s business, without any guarantee that one will break even. Given the state of the economy, exhibitors need to take back control of their costs, limit the number of shows they attend and compliment their campaign for worldwide exposure by incorporating Z Global Mart in their marketing campaign to achieve the highest possible return on their investment.

Fashion Industry Veteran, Ashley O’Rourke, is per¬sonally inviting Designers, Manufacturers, Sourcing, Service Exhibitors, Boutique owners, Department Stores, Chain Stores, Wholesale Apparel Buyers, to populate and become members of The Fashion Industry’s Virtual Trade Show by Z Global Mart.

Exhibitors have their own Booth open 365 days a year, 24/7, for a yearly cost that’s less than the cost of attending just one 3 day trade show. Visit the site, see our mission video, take the tour, become a member, and prosper in the New World of Fashion.

Site Features:

Affordable launching of lines and services worldwide

Promoting on a worldwide basis all the exhibitors as they become members through press releases, social media and fashion associations

Each Exhibitor has its own Professional Numbered Booth they control, Show-casing their existing, and to be delivered items

Exhibitors and Attendees handle their own transactions, including shipping (no % of sales fees)

Exhibitors and Attendees are screened

Fashion Industry’s Code of Ethics in place (exhibitors can’t see other exhibitors lines)

Fostering of New Talent (affordable launching of lines and Fashion Show for top 10)

Video Conferencing Capabilities for the all important “Face to Face” contact

Exhibitors post their photo, 3 +/- minute videos of their line, with full contact information

Professional mood shots and photos only and ability to look at detail

Membership in exclusive community through zglobalmart blog (share, mentor, promote)

Unique, Classy B2B site, incorporating Social Media features and ease of use qualities (not an off-price, close-out, liquidation site)

No Disruption to your business through travel and the cost associated with it, be it as an exhibitor or attendee

Links to Trade Publications, Associations, Networks, Government Agencies, Factoring Companies

Costs:

All Exhibitors, Sourcing, and Attendees receive a 60 day free trial from sign up, then they can choose as follows:

Exhibitors: a) Month to month $500.00 cancellable; b) Yearly paid up-front $4,800 ($400 per month basis)

Sourcing: a) Month to month $149.00 cancellable; b) Yearly paid up-front $1,188 ($99 per month basis)

Attendees: a) FREE absolutely no cost to attend and no costs for travel, lodging, meals and no disruption to one’s business.

ALL HAVE UNLIMITED ACCESS

Over 100 exhibitors have decided to Join Us in the New Era of Fashion, over the coming weeks they will be setting up their booths. Join us in the new era of fashion.

We already have interest from exhibitors and attendees from the USA, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, UK, Portugal, Spain, Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, France, Switzerland, Italy, Egypt, Turkey, Lebanon, Russia, Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, China, Japan, and Australia.

Senken Newspaper, the largest Daily Apparel Publication in Japan with 200,000 circulation, has already interviewed Ashley O’Rourke and Alex Egidio, the principals of Z Global Mart and the large article was published on 11/16/09.

Don’t be left behind, take advantage of the 60 day free trial while we populate the site.

Join Us in the New Era of Fashion
Z Global Mart

via alice euphemia

vous êtes ici : la boutique ;

code promo hobby les bons tuyaux le 11 sept 2009 dans bons plans sorties loisirs admin le 18 sept 2009 dans mistergooddeal, bons plans shopping les bons plans tanneurs vous propose des bons de réductions, remises et coupons de réduction à utiliser dans les magasins de leur galerie : agatha, sur cette page, profitez des bons plans m'ra ! Com est un portail qui réunit tout les jeux gratuits du net pour gagner des cadeaux, se détendre, des jeux concours et des bons plans gratuit . voici quelques astuces pour faire des économies à votre budget, ce qui n'est pas un luxe desbonsplans .

Com vous offre la possibilité de faire une réservation voyage à prix réduit avec les bons plans voyages, les bons plans sejours, les bons plans comment vous faire coiffer à moindres frais grâce aux bons plans ? : réductions supplémentaires avec votre carte, coups de coeur pour des concerts, films, spectacles, expos, l'agence xl . > les bons plans apce .

H&M Cumberland Mall opens TODAY, Nov 19th .  H&M Cumberland Mall will offer current styles for ladies and men, young ladies and young men, with separate sections for denim and accessories. This store will also carry a full children’s department with items for children of all ages. 

To celebrate  the  opening of  H&M Cumberland Mall,  the first 100 shoppers in line will receive an Access to Fashion gift pass valued from $10-$100.

If you are on the hunt for the new line of Jimmy Choo shoes at H&M unfortunately the Atlanta stores were not lucky enough to carry them.  Hopefully they will release this line of shoes to the public sooner than later online

Thank you Jessica Shops Atlanta for sharing this deal.

H&M Cumberland Mall is located at 1620 Cumberland Mall SE in Atlanta, GA and can be reached by phone at (770) 435-2206. Store hours are Monday – Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. and Sunday 12:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Come and check out our booth on Sat and Sun, Nov 21st and 22nd! KNOXX will have special limited editions and huge discounts on our products for this event!

Pilloroo is happy to be in the best online shop for everything for bedtime.  Perfect Pjs has a fabulous selection of luxury pajamas at affordable prices.  From everyday Pjs to special matching Pjs for Christmas Eve, this store is a must visit.  Pajamas are great gifts this time of year as everyone wants to be snug and cozy on cold winter nights.  Find great snuggly pajamas as well as fabulous gifts from Pinkalicious to Chubby Wubby.  You can now find Pilloroo too!  The hidden pouch is the very best place to hide your Pjs during the day!

13 Camden Passage

The Yumi Kim Natalie Dress this past summer was one that definitely got worn a lot by those who were lucky enough to purchase it. The easy dress could have been worn to a wedding one night then to stroll the streets of NY the week after.  It was a  strapless dress to a dinner then made into a halter for the after party!

Yumi Kim saw the love and brought it back as a jumper with the same sexy neckline, but this time in solid black, navy and purple, the chic colors of choice.  $215/$151

Another party season is heading our way, let’s make new fashion memories!!

Senken Newspaper the largest fashion daily newspaper published a big article on Z Global Mart on 11/16/09
If you’ve seen it and read Japanese please let us know what it said. I’m told it was a big article by the reporter.
Z Global Mart http://www.zglobalmart.com

The Fashion Industry's Virtual Trade Show

Last night Cross Town hosted the RockNFashion Show!  Show producers Clay Perkins and Joshua Ferdinand Photography have joined forces with EventKC.com and Christian Micheal Designs, the show consisted of local designers, models, bands and hair/makeup artists into one fabulous event! Models will walk the runway donning the latest apparel from Kansas City designers,  as local bands Action Figure , Heroes + Villains and Pet Comfort provide the musical backdrop.  Betsy Johnson leads a cast of local designers, and boutiques, which includes Abigail Carolina , Robert Anthony , Oblivion Clothing , Wop on Top , and Envolve Boutique . Also featuring jewelry design by Evil Pawn Jewelry .

Join Us In The New Era Of Fashion

Top Retail News

Wal-Mart posts mixed Q3 results: profits up, comps down

Bentonville, Ark. ( November 12, 2009 ) Wal-Mart Stores said Thursday it posted better-than-expected earnings for the third quarter, due to effective cost-cutting measures, but same-store sales dipped amid the downturn.

Profit for the quarter ended Oct. 31 rose 3% to $3.23 billion, compared with $3.14 billion a year earlier and beating Wall Street expectations.

Forest City announces senior exec retirement

Cleveland ( November 12, 2009 ) Forest City Enterprises announced Thursday the retirement of Brian Jones, chairman, West Coast Development.

With Jones’ retirement, Kevin Ratner, currently president, Residential West, has been named to the new position of president, Forest City West.

Best Buy Union Square store opens Friday

Minneapolis ( November 12, 2009 ) Best Buy Co. said Thursday that its new store in Manhattan’s Union Square will open Friday morning.

The 48,000-sq.-ft. store is the retailer’s largest Manhattan location.

Interstate Batteries launches new POS technology

Dallas ( November 12, 2009 ) Interstate Batteries Franchise and Development, the franchisor of Interstate All Battery Center, said Thursday that it will implement the MICROS-Retail Xstore point-of-sale system in all franchise locations across all 50 states.

Portable power solution company IABC said it is the first nationally established brand to enter the fragmented battery market. The new POS system will be fully deployed in all locations in 2010 to facilitate IABC’s continued growth and maintain its commitment to dependability and customer service.

Banker pled guilty to Albertsons trade fraud

New York City ( November 12, 2009 ) Federal investigators said Thursday that a banker who executed trades against confidential information that Albertsons would be sold pleaded guilty to charges of conspiracy and securities fraud.

According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Michael Koulouroudis executed trades on tips provided to him by Nicos Stephanou, an investment banker at UBS who represented a private-equity firm that was interested in acquiring Albertsons in 2005 and 2006.

Waldenbooks could exit San Antonio market

Ann Arbor, Mich. ( November 12, 2009 ) The Borders Group is eyeing the possible closure of all three Waldenbooks stores in San Antonio in January, according to a report in the San Antonio Business Journal.

The possible shuttering is part of a national plan to make the chain more profitable in 2010.

Retailers use social media to advertise deals

New York City ( November 12, 2009 ) Consumers will have the option to check out pre-Black Friday deals on Facebook and Twitter before heading to the mall the day after Thanksgiving, according to published reports.

Hundreds of deals already are being advertised for Black Friday by retailers as diverse as OfficeMax and Old Navy.

RadioShack rumored to be moving corporate HQ

Dallas ( November 12, 2009 ) RadioShack may be moving its corporate headquarters, according to a report in the Tampa Bay Business Journal.

The report suggested the electronics retailer was quietly shopping for new space and considering an office relocation both inside and outside of Fort Worth, Texas.

Sheetz opens third store in Greensboro, N.C.

Altoona, Pa. ( November 12, 2009 ) Sheetz said Thursday it has opened a new store in Greensboro, N.C., the retailer’s third in the market.

The 5,000-sq.-ft. facility, which opened Thursday morning, features a full line of fresh foods and a full-service coffee and espresso bar.

Toys ‘R’ Us opens in-store Cartoon Network boutique

Wayne, N.J. ( November 12, 2009 ) Cartoon Network Enterprises said Thursday it has opened dedicated boutiques in Toys “R” Us stores nationwide.

The Cartoon Network-branded boutiques will be open throughout November.

Berkshire completes investment in Grocery Outlet

Berkeley, Calif. ( November 12, 2009 ) Berkshire Partners, Boston, has completed its investment in the Grocery Outlet supermarket chain, according to a report by Supermarket News.

Berkshire said it would supply strategic and financial support to help Grocery Outlet expand.

Marsh to test mobile offers via ChaCha.com

Indianapolis ( November 12, 2009 ) Marsh Supermarkets said it is planning to test a new mobile marketing idea at two stores before the end of the year, according to a report by Supermarket News.

In the test, consumers in Marsh’s marketing areas who text a question to information service ChaCha.com will receive with their answer an offer from Marsh. A shopper who selects the offer would go to one of the test stores, print out the offer there and redeem it at the checkout.

Nash Finch names EVP, general counsel

Minneapolis ( November 12, 2009 ) Nash Finch said Thursday it has promoted Kathleen Mahoney to executive VP, general counsel and secretary.

Previously, she served as senior VP, general counsel and secretary.

Brookshire selects XATA for fleet optimization

Minneapolis ( November 12, 2009 ) Fleet optimization solution provider XATA Corp. said Thursday that Brookshire Grocery Co. has selected XATA as its preferred provider of onboard computer technology.

Brookshire Grocery selected the XATANET fleet operations software platform and services for its fleet of more than 75 vehicles. XATA is also providing implementation and training services to ensure a smooth adoption of the solution.

Yankee Candle swings to loss in Q3

South Deerfield, Mass. ( November 12, 2009 ) Yankee Holding Corp. and The Yankee Candle Co. announced Thursday that it posted a net loss of $0.7 million for the third quarter, compared with a profit of $6.7 million in the year-ago period.

Sales for the third quarter ended Oct. 3 were $168.7 million, a 4.2% decrease from the prior-year third quarter.

Urban Outfitters Q3 profit up 5%, helped by Anthropologie results

Philadelphia ( November 12, 2009 ) Urban Outfitters said Thursday that profit rose 5%, as higher sales at its Anthropologie chain helped offset weaker results at its Urban Outfitters and Free People stores.

Profit for the three months ended Oct. 31 totaled $62.4 million, compared with $59.3 million a year ago.

Report: Holiday food and drink sales to shine

Santa Monica, Calif. ( November 12, 2009 ) A research report released Thursday by IBISWorld has found that while analysts are anticipating a difficult holiday season, the forecast for sales of food and drink is looking merry.

The category is expected to see the most growth this year compared with other categories researched.

Kohl’s profit beats Street, lowers outlook

Menomonee Falls, Wis. ( November 12, 2009 ) Kohl’s Corp. on Thursday reported a larger-than-expected quarterly profit, but forecast a holiday fourth quarter below Wall Street estimates.

Net profit rose 20% to $193 million in the third quarter ended Oct. 31, up from $160 million a year earlier. Sales rose 6.5% to $4.1 billion, just above analysts’ estimates of $4.0 billion, and comp-store sales were up 2.4%.

Yankee Candle CFO to retire

South Deerfield, Mass. ( November 12, 2009 ) The Yankee Candle Co. said Thursday that Bruce L. Hartman, the company’s executive VP, chief administrative officer and CFO, will retire after the end of the current fiscal year.

Hartman joined Yankee Candle in January 2008.

Raids on Duluth stores net $100,000 in fake goods

Minneapolis ( November 12, 2009 ) More than $100,000 in phony merchandise, from designer purses and clothing to pro sports team jerseys, has been seized from three Duluth, Minn., businesses, according to a report in the Star Tribune.

Police and federal immigration investigators searched three stores and confiscated more than 1,600 items, police said

Caruso introduces on-demand mall concierge service

Los Angeles ( November 12, 2009 ) Caruso Affiliated said Thursday it is unveiling the nation’s first personalized mobile customer service system at two of the developer’s iconic centers in Los Angeles — The Grove in mid-city and The Americana at Brand in Glendale.

One Touch Concierge, an innovative program using cutting-edge wireless technology that can be downloaded on most smart phones, features a one-touch system that allows shoppers to arrange for a host of services and assistance.

GreenbergFarrow completes Manhattan Mall redevelopment

New York City ( November 12, 2009 ) Architectural firm GreenbergFarrow said Thursday that it has completed the renovation and repositioning of Manhattan Mall at Herald Square, a project for which the company served as the architect.

The five-level, 400,000-sq.-ft. property was acquired by Vornado Realty Trust in 2007.

Costco debuts in Manhattan with store opening

Issaquah, Wash. ( November 12, 2009 ) Costco Wholesale Corp. announced it is opening its first store in Manhattan on Thursday, and added it is looking for additional sites in the area.

The warehouse club retailer said it searched for a Manhattan site for years to target the island’s higher-income population. The new store sits on the site of a former wire factory in Forest City Ratner’s East River Plaza project, which also includes Target and Marshalls.

Kroger, Safeway workers set strike deadline in Arizona

Los Angeles ( November 11, 2009 ) Union workers at Arizona grocery stores operated by Kroger Co. and Safeway set a Friday evening strike deadline if a contract agreement is not reached, according to a Reuters report.

Some 25,000 workers at Fry’s and Safeway supermarkets around the state could walk off the job on Friday at 6 p.m. if salary and benefit terms are not reached, the report said.

OfficeMax brings back ‘Elf Yourself’ e-card promotion

Naperville, Ill. ( November 11, 2009 ) OfficeMax announced the return of its free holiday e-greeting, ElfYourself.com.

Powered by JibJab Media, ElfYourself.com will allow consumers to create free personalized holiday e-cards by uploading their photos and transforming themselves, family and friends into dancing elves.

Casual Male selects data warehouse, analytics solution

Marlborough, Mass. ( November 11, 2009 ) Casual Male has selected a solution from Netezza, a provider of data warehouse and analytic solutions, to gain insight into its existing data.

“In order to provide stellar customer service, it’s critical we have insight into all our channels — retail, catalogue and e-commerce — and can adapt quickly to changing consumer needs,” said Dennis Hernreich, executive VP, COO and CFO of Casual Male Retail Group. “With Netezza, we can quickly analyze data and make fact-based decisions about merchandising, marketing, distribution and store operations — enabling us to gain the most value from vast amounts of consumer information.”

Winn Dixie to offer Visa prepaid debit card

Tampa, Fla. ( November 11, 2009 ) nFinanSe announced it will be launching its new Visa Reloadable Prepaid Debit Card in Winn-Dixie Supermarkets in December.

The card will sell for $3 and will not charge consumers any fees on purchase transactions. It will have a low $2.95 monthly maintenance fee for an unlimited number of purchase transactions and will allow consumers to load additional funds for only $2.95.

Seven emerges from Chapter 11 bankruptcy

November 11, 2009, Seven has emerged from Chapter 11 bankruptcy under a reorganization that slashes debts for the downtown Minneapolis sushi bar and steak house, which will pay off what it still owes from future income.

The reorganization plan, approved Oct. 27 in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Minnesota, allows David Koch and other business associates to stay in charge of the Koch Group, the St. Paul company that owns and operates the restaurant.

Sears launches electronics trade-in program

Hoffman Estates, Ill. ( November 11, 2009 ) Sears has launched a new trade-in and recycling program that allows Sears.com shoppers to turn-in used electronics, such as cell phones, cameras and MP3 players and redeem them for Sears gift cards that are valid online and in-store.

The new program is in partnership with Gazelle, which specializes in providing practical, responsible, rewarding ways for consumers to get value for used, working electronics, and gives customers the flexibility to trade-in unwanted gadgets from more than 20 product categories.

USM to begin HQ construction

Norristown, Pa. ( November 11, 2009 ) USM, formerly US Maintenance, a provider in facilities maintenance and management services, will kick off construction of its new headquarters on Thursday.

Slated to open in July of 2010, the development of the new facility was made possible in part by a grant from the Montgomery County’s Countywide Strategic Economic Development Program.

Survey: More holiday shoppers to use social media, mobile this year

New York City ( November 11, 2009 ) Digital advancements continue to drive a new approach to shopping, with social media and mobile phones emerging as key influencers this holiday season, according to Deloitte’s 24th Annual Holiday Survey of retail spending and trends.

Social media is gaining traction with almost one out of five (17%) consumers planning to use social media during their holiday shopping, and among those, three out of five (60%) plan to use social media to find discounts, coupons and sale information. More than half intend to use social media to research gift ideas (53%), while 52% plan to check the gift wish lists of friends and family.

U.S. foot traffic up 3.0% in Oct.

Chicago ( November 11, 2009 ) ShopperTrak RCT Corp.’s Retail Traffic Index reported on Wednesday that total U.S. foot traffic for the month of October fell 3.0%, while the company’s National Retail Sales Estimate reported retail sales slipped a slight 0.4% for the same period.

Although U.S. foot traffic levels once again dropped in October, monthly declines continue to narrow as the holiday shopping season approaches, with October posting the smallest year-over-year decline in over a year. In the four months prior to October, traffic declined 12.2 % (June); 9.7% (July); 7.7% (August) and 5.2% (September).

Wal-Mart to keep stores open 24/7 on Black Friday

Bentonville, Ark. ( November 11, 2009 ) Wal-Mart Stores said Wednesday it will keep its stores open 24 hours and take new crowd-control measures Thanksgiving weekend after a temporary employee was trampled to death in a Black Friday rush last year.

The company said day-after-Thanksgiving sales will begin at 5 a.m. Nov. 27, but most U.S. stores will be open 24 hours to prevent a mad dash. The announcement doesn’t affect most of Wal-Mart’s Supercenters, which are already open 24 hours.

Macy’s narrows losses in the Q3

New York City ( November 11, 2009 ) Macy’s reported a smaller third-quarter loss as the department store operator benefited from tight inventory controls and a move to localize merchandise by region.

Macy’s said Wednesday that it lost $35 million in the quarter ended Oct. 31. That compares with $44 million in the year-ago period. Macy’s reported revenue fell almost 4% to $5.28 billion. Meanwhile, same-store sales dropped 7.5% in the quarter.

Family Dollar announces VP promotion

Matthews, N.C. ( November 11, 2009 ) Family Dollar Stores announced that Donna Barker has been promoted to the position of VP – merchandising, general merchandise manager.

Barker joined Family Dollar in 2003 as divisional VP home, with responsibility over soft home and home decor categories. Prior to joining Family Dollar, Barker served as a divisional merchandise manager with Belk Department Stores.

Wal-Mart offers $100 gift card with BlackBerry purchase

Bentonville, Ark. ( November 11, 2009 ) Wal-Mart Stores said Wednesday it will offer a $100 gift card with each purchase of a BlackBerry mobile phone and two-year contract.

The one-week offer beginning Saturday includes its full assortment of BlackBerry devices from AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile and Verizon Wireless.

Best Buy International leader to retire

Minneapolis ( November 11, 2009 ) Best Buy announced that Robert A. Willett, CEO of Best Buy International, will retire effective Dec. 31.

The company does not plan to name a successor to the specific role of international CEO. The company said it has strong local leaders and teams in every country in which it operates and is confident in their abilities.

Rona earnings and revenues down in Q3

Boucherville, Quebec ( November 11, 2009 ) Retailer and distributor Rona, Canada’s biggest home-improvement chain, reported sales of C$1.32 billion ($1.26 billion) for its third fiscal quarter, a 4.4% decline from sales of C $1.38 billion posted in the third quarter last year. Same-store sales suffered a 5.3% reduction in the corporate and franchise store sector, while distribution sales dropped 1.6%.

Net earnings, excluding one-time costs such as store closings, were C$53.3 million in third quarter 2009, compared with C$58.9 million in the same period of 2008.

Report: Labor productivity not driving profit

San Jose, Calif. ( November 10, 2009 ) A report released Tuesday by Deloitte’s Center for the Edge found that, despite major improvement in labor productivity over the last four decades, many industries in the United States, including retail, have experienced alarming decreases in their return-on-assets.

Deloitte released its industry-specific findings in the 2009 “Shift Index,” a new economic indicator identifying three waves of disruption that are shaping today’s business landscape.

Lowe’s to open new Parkville store, create up to 120 jobs

November 10, 2009, Home improvement giant Lowe’s said Tuesday it will open a new 120,000-square-foot store next year in Parkville.

The $12 million store at 1400 Taylor Ave. will be the North Carolina retailer’s 26th Maryland location and is expected to create up to 120 jobs. The store is slated to open in the fourth quarter of 2010.

Holiday hiring up at Jo-Ann Fabrics

Hudson, Ohio ( November 10, 2009 ) Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores said Tuesday that it has increased in seasonal hires by 18.1% over last year, bucking the current trend to hire fewer holiday employees.

According to Travis Smith, COO for Jo-Ann, the company has hired 2,779 seasonal employees, which currently account for 13.4% of its total work force. Last year at this time, seasonal employees accounted for 11%.

Nonprofit promotes sustainable community development

San Rafael, Calif. ( November 10, 2009 ) A new nonprofit, The Partnership for Sustainable Communities, has been established to help reduce sprawl and encourage reinvestment in established neighborhoods.

PSC operates nationally to promote land-use policies and development practices that encourage high-density transit-oriented development and housing and economic opportunity for persons of all incomes, said its president and founder Andre F. Shashaty.

Report: Consumers showing interest in holiday electronics purchases

Yonkers, N.Y. ( November 10, 2009 ) A Consumer Reports Index released Tuesday found that, with just a little more than two weeks to go until the traditional Black Friday shopping blitz, consumers are showing more interest in purchasing personal electronics.

One quarter (24.9%) of Americans are planning to buy small or personal electronics this month, up five percentage points from October, according to the Consumer Reports Index.

Target rolls out p-fresh grocery concept in Texas

Minneapolis ( June 1, 2008 ) Target Corp. said Tuesday it has begun rolling out its “p-fresh” grocery model in Texas, according to reports.

P-fresh, or prototype-fresh, adds grocery departments resembling those of a SuperTarget location to existing Target discount stores. The concept started in Minneapolis and more recently was rolled out in Philadelphia.

Asda under new ownership

London ( November 10, 2009 ) Wal-Mart Stores has sold off its Asda unit, according to published reports, to Corinth, a holding company that previously had been a subsidiary of Asda, for about $9.6 billion.

A Wal-Mart spokesman is reported as saying that the company will on occasion alter the ownership structure of its businesses as appropriate. This is the first time ownership of Asda has changed under Wal-Mart.

Barnes & Noble launches online kids store

( November 10, 2009 ) Barnes & Noble has unveiled its new online B&N Kids Store at BN.com. The new B&N Kids Store features tools to help parents find the right book for their children based on reading level, age and favorite series.

The site also includes holiday Top 10 lists and collections of the best books, toys, and games, as well as a selection of educational products including workbooks, DVDs and music selections.

Wal-Mart debuts in-store clinics in Maine

Bangor, Maine ( November 10, 2009 ) Wal-Mart Stores said Monday that it opened its first in-store health clinic in the state of Maine on Monday, at the recently opened Stillwater Avenue Supercenter in Bangor.

Additional clinics will open in coming months at stores in Brewer, Palmyra and Presque Isle.

Office Depot re-ups agreement with DemandTec for optimized merchandising

San Carlos, Calif. ( November 10, 2009 ) On-demand optimization solution-provider DemandTec said Tuesday that Office Depot has renewed its subscription to DemandTec’s Lifecycle Price OptimizationT solution.

“Our long-standing relationship with DemandTec is driven by our desire to enhance our customers’ shopping experience by delivering merchandising programs that drive increased store traffic and maximize each store or Web site visit,” said Steve Mahurin, executive VP merchandising, Office Depot.

Wegmans plots Northeastern growth

Rochester, N.Y. ( November 10, 2009 ) Wegmans Food Markets said Tuesday its expansion strategy involves growth mostly outside its home base of New York.

According to a report in the Ithaca Journal, CEO Danny Wegman said, “We see our growth in a defined crescent between Washington and Boston, extending from Pennsylvania, Virginia and Maryland and up into Massachusetts,” Danny Wegman said. “We’re looking at Connecticut.”

Weekly retail sales rise 2.9%

New York City ( November 10, 2009 ) The International Council of Shopping Centers and Goldman Sachs said Tuesday that chain-store sales for the week ended Nov. 7 rose 2.9% from the year-earlier period.

On a week-over-week basis, sales fell 0.1%

Consumers to cut restaurant spending

New York City ( November 10, 2009 ) Despite signs that the recession may be ending, restaurant customers say they plan to spend about 20% less per meal in 2010 than they did this year, according to a new study published Tuesday by Nation’s Restaurant News.

The study by business consultant AlixPartners queried 1,000 consumers, who said they plan to spend an average of $11.49 per meal next year. In a similar survey the company performed nine months ago, respondents reported spending an average of $13.25 per meal.

Wal-Mart develops action plan for crowd control

Bentonville, Ark. ( November 10, 2009 ) Wal-Mart Stores said it has developed plans to manage holiday crowds shopping at its 3,500 U.S. stores this season. The action plan comes after an employee died in a “Black Friday’’ trampling a year ago.

Wal-Mart consulted with sports and entertainment safety specialists to handle shoppers waiting to enter its stores, David Tovar, a company spokesman, said Monday. The plans, specific to each store, also help direct the flow of shoppers when they are in the stores, check out, and leave, he said.

NJ reaches settlement with Target over expired goods, pricing errors

Newark, N.J. ( November 10, 2009 ) Target Corp. has agreed to pay New Jersey $375,000 to settle a lawsuit that it sold expired baby formula and charged different prices at the register than advertised.

Attorney General Anne Milgram said Target will establish a position for a senior manager who will ensure advertised prices match what customers are being charged.

Report: Retail theft up almost 6% around the globe

Thorofare, N.J. ( November 10, 2009 ) The Center for Retail Research announced Tuesday the results of its Global Retail Theft Barometer 2009, which found that total retail shrink worldwide was up 5.9% over last year’s theft numbers.

According to the third annual report, which measures key trends in retail shrinkage and crime in 41 countries and regions, global shrink costs retailers $114.8 billion, an average of 1.43% of global retail sales. Last year, total theft was $104.5 billion.

CVS and Generation Health team to expand pharmacy offerings

Woonsocket, R.I. ( November 10, 2009 ) CVS Caremark and Generation Health, a genetic benefit management company, said Tuesday they have forged a partnership to expand pharmacogenomic clinical and testing services for CVS Caremark pharmacy benefit management clients to improve care for patients who either are non-responsive or have adverse reactions to their medications.

Through this partnership, CVS Caremark said it will use genetic testing to apply greater precision to client prescription management, with the goal of improving individual health outcomes and reducing overall medical costs.

Dollar Tree names exec

Chesapeake, Va. ( November 10, 2009 ) Dollar Tree announced Tuesday that it has appointed Shawnta Totten to the newly created position of VP, governance and corporate counsel.

In the new position, Totten will focus on the company’s efforts on best practices in corporate governance and will serve as the liaison with shareholders on governance matters.

Zales subject of class-action lawsuit

Los Angeles ( November 10, 2009 ) Law firm Glancy Binkow & Goldberg said late Monday that it has a filed a class-action lawsuit in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Texas on behalf of purchasers of Zale Corp. securities between November 16, 2006 and October 29, 2009.

The firm said the complaint charges Zales and its officers with securities violations, including providing false or misleading information and financial improprieties.

Home Depot selling off extra parking

Atlanta ( November 10, 2009 ) The Home Depot said it has identified about 25 Georgia stores in which it plans to market surplus parking.

According to a report in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, the move to sell parcels comes as Home Depot grapples with sales declines stemming from the housing bust and consumer spending cutbacks. The chain, once known for adding a store every 48 hours, has nearly stopped expanding its U.S. store base. Last year it closed 15 flagship stores and 34 Expo stores, in addition to taking 50 stores out of its construction pipeline.

Former Wal-Mart chief joins private-equity firm

Boston ( November 10, 2009 ) Former Wal-Mart Stores president and CEO Lee Scott has joined private-equity and venture capital firm Solamere as operating partner, according to published reports.

The Lexington, Mass.-based firm has ties to Mitt Romney, the former Massachusetts governor and Republican Party presidential hopeful.

Sears Holdings names executive VP apparel, home unit

Hoffman Estates, Ill. ( November 9, 2009 ) Sears Holdings Corp. has named John D. Goodman executive VP of its apparel and home unit.

Goodman will be responsible for the oversight and leadership of Sears Holdings’ apparel and home businesses in stores and online.

Duane Reade introduces publication

New York City ( November 9, 2009 ) Duane Reade is introducing hundreds of new and exclusive products in time for the holidays with a new publication called “The Duane Reader.”

“’The Duane Reader’ represents our most recent effort to strengthen our brand image in order to match the positive changes that we are making to our customer experience,” said Joe Jackman, acting chief marketing officer. “It’s our hope that busy New Yorkers will find it to be a relevant, useful and entertaining companion for city living during the holidays.”

Kendall Law Group investigating Diedrich Coffee

Dallas ( November 9, 2009 ) Kendall Law Group said on Monday it began an investigation on behalf of Diedrich Coffee shareholders. The investigation concerns possible breaches of fiduciary duty by the board of directors in connection with the proposed acquisition by Peet’s Coffee & Tea.

This is a cash and stock transaction valued at approximately $213 million.

Kronos survey: Retailers cautious about holiday hiring

Chelmsford, Mass. ( November 9, 2009 ) Kronos released on Monday its third monthly retail labor index, showing that hiring by U.S. retailers in September and October sank to its lowest level in three years.

Despite an increase in hiring over the past few months, the report shows signs that retailers are planning conservatively for the holiday season.

Levi Strauss & Co. selects vendor-managed inventory solution

Dallas ( November 9, 2009 ) Levi Strauss & Co. has tapped i2 Technologies to design and deploy processes and tools to improve service levels to the apparel company’s customers.

The tools, which include a vendor-managed inventory functionality, are designed to more accurately replenish products on the retail floor at the SKU level, providing consumers with an improved shopping experience and enhancing sales opportunities for retailers.

Dollar General gears up to go public

Goodlettsville, Tenn. ( November 9, 2009 ) Discount retailer Dollar General is prepping for trading on the New York Stock Exchange, according to the Wall Street Journal.

The 54-year-old discounter, with more than 8,500 U.S. stores, will make its public debut under the symbol DG starting on Friday.

Starbucks earnings up in Q4

Seattle ( November 9, 2009 ) Starbucks Corp. reported fourth-quarter earnings of $150 million, up significantly from earnings of $5.4 million in the same quarter in 2008.

The increase reflected sharp cuts in expenses related to the coffee giant’s decision to close 800 stores this year. The company said fourth-quarter revenue was $2.4 billion, compared with $2.5 billion in fourth quarter 2008.

Pinkberry announces U.S., international expansion

Los Angeles ( November 9, 2009 ) Pinkberry said it is planning an expansion into seven additional U.S. markets, as well as Mexico, with selected area developer franchise partners.

These markets support the frozen yogurt chain’s national and global expansion strategy, including the recent highly successful launches in Kuwait and Dubai with franchise powerhouse M.H. Alshaya, and a debut this month in the Dallas market.

Home Depot to offer vets a discount

Atlanta ( November 9, 2009 ) The Home Depot will once again honor military service by offering all active duty personnel, reservists, retired military, veterans and their families a 10% discount off their purchases for Veteran’s Day.

The offer is valid on purchases of up to $2,000 for a maximum discount of $200 between now and Nov. 11 at all U.S. and Puerto Rico Home Depot stores.

ZAGG opens first mall store

Orem, Utah ( November 9, 2009 ) ZAGG, a producer of electronics accessories for protecting and enhancing the mobile experience, opened its first inline store on Monday.

Located in the University Mall in Orem, Utah, the inline store is an expansion of ZAGG’s invisibleSHIELD mall cart in the same mall. Similar to the majority of ZAGG’s mall carts, the first inline retail mall store is launching through a licensed vendor.

OfficeMax partners with U.S. Bank for Visa card portfolio

Naperville, Ill. ( November 9, 2009 ) OfficeMax has partnered with U.S. Bank, lead bank for U.S. Bancorp, to issue a new OfficeMax Visa Signature and Visa Rewards credit card.

OfficeMax customers can earn 8% or more in rewards on OfficeMax purchases when they use their OfficeMax Visa Card along with their MaxPerks Rewards membership.

Urban Outfitters selects multichannel customer-service solution

Columbus, Ohio ( November 9, 2009 ) Urban Outfitters has selected an order management and managed file transfer solution from Sterling Commerce.

Urban Outfitters will implement Sterling Order Management to enable the company to create a seamless shopping experience across all its channels and brands, which include its Urban Outfitters brand as well as Anthropologie, Free People, and Terrain. Meanwhile, the Sterling Managed File Transfer solution has been selected to manage the internal and external file transfers for the retailer as part of a new customer relationship management implementation.

Destination Maternity president to retire

Philadelphia ( November 9, 2009 ) Destination Maternity Corp. announced that Rebecca Matthias, the company’s president and chief creative officer, will retire at the end of its current fiscal year ending September 30, 2010. Matthias will continue to serve the company in a full-time capacity until June 15, 2010, at which time she will be available to the company on a part-time basis until September 30, 2010.

Dunkin’ Donuts to launch 99-cent menu in Chicago

Chicago ( November 9, 2009 ) Dunkin’ Donuts plans to launch a new 99-cent menu at 500 Chicago locations on Monday and hand out 20,000 gift cards pre-loaded with $2 each to lure customers.

The chain said it would give out the gift cards at commuter stations, downtown plazas and other pedestrian-friendly areas in Chicago and its suburbs, starting at 7 a.m. on Monday.

A.C. Moore losses widen, misses Street

New York City ( November 6, 2009 ) A.C. Moore Arts & Crafts reported Friday that the company posted a bigger third-quarter loss due to traffic-driving promotions that undermined margins.

The retailer lost $12.9 million in the quarter ended Oct. 3, compared with a loss of $7.5 million in the year-ago period. Revenue dropped 9% to $106.1 million. Same-store sales declined 7.7 %.

GNC names Dick’s vet to board

Pittsburgh ( November 6, 2009 ) General Nutrition Centers announced Friday that Michael F. Hines has joined the boards of GNC and its parent companies.

Hines was executive VP and CFO of Dick’s Sporting Goods from 1995 to March 2007. Prior to that, he held management positions with Staples, most recently as VP finance.

Delhaize reports Q3 profit gain

Brussels, Belgium ( November 6, 2009 ) Delhaize Group reported Friday that profits increased 10.1% for the third quarter ended Sept. 30.

U.S. sales of $4.8 billion for the slipped by 1.2% and comps were down by 1.3% due mainly to deflation, officials said, as targeted promotions and price investments helped increase volume and trips. Overall sales edged up 1.9%

Ahold restructures toward acquisition ramp-up

Amsterdam, The Netherlands ( November 6, 2009 ) Dutch retailer Royal Ahold said Thursday said it is reorganizing its United States and European operations in order to position itself to make acquisitions in both new and existing markets, according to a report in the Wall Street Journal.

Ahold will set up four new U.S. divisions from the two it operates currently. Stop&Shop/Giant-Carlisle and Giant Landover are separated into Stop & Shop New England, Stop & Shop Metro New York, Giant-Landover and Giant-Carlisle.

Dillard’s to shutter store in Cincinnati

Little Rock, Ark. ( November 6, 2009 ) Dillard’s said Friday it will close its Northgate Mall store in Cincinnati on Dec. 31, according to a report by the Business Courier of Cincinnati.

The closure will eliminate 50 jobs.

Bon-Ton closes Salem Furniture Gallery

York, Pa. ( November 6, 2009 ) The Bon-Ton Stores said Friday that it will close its 50,000-sq.-ft. Elder-Beerman Salem Furniture Gallery in Trotwood, Ohio.

The Salem location was acquired by Bon-Ton in 2003 as part of the Elder-Beerman acquisition. The closing, which is scheduled for the beginning of December, will impact approximately 10 associates.

Acme renovates two Ohio grocery stores

Akron, Ohio ( November 6, 2009 ) Acme invested $4.5 million renovating two Akron, Ohio, stores, according to a report by the Akron Beacon Journal.

Departments were moved to create better flow and a new color palette of rich fall tones was used.

PriceSmart Q4 profits drop 9% on increased expenses

San Diego ( November 6, 2009 ) PriceSmart said Friday its fourth-quarter profit declined 9%, negatively impacted by a rise in operating expenses.

Profit for the quarter ended Aug. 31 declined to $10.3 million from $11.3 million in the year-ago period.

New Orleans is hands down one of my favorite American cities. How can you not love a city that has amazing live music, fabulous food, open container laws and Reggie Bush? Laissez les bon temps roulez! Another aspect of the city that is truly world class is its antique shops. Now in full disclosure, during my NO visits I haven’t ventured out to shops outside the French Quarter, but the WSJ just wrote about a fabulous shop called Perch. located in the Garden District.

I love this little shop and can’t wait to visit in person! To me, they have the perfect combination of antiques with a modern twist with colors and textiles that are fresh and fun. The prices are a bit steep, but just by judging from their website, I can tell it would be a great place to go for inspiration (like the above lucite table, which I think you could get a similar look by using the Peekaboo console from CB2 and some fun wall decals).

Anyway, check out their website. I can truly say I love everything featured in this shop and I’m also thinking a New Orleans trip is definitely in my near future!

- Adrienne

A-listers Need to Know:

Purchase: www.perch-home.com

Because everyone loves a good sale.
M.

NEIMAN MARCUS
Up to 40% off TODAY ONLY – Items return to their regular prices Nov. 12
20% off cosmetics in-store only

BLOOMINGDALE’S
FRIENDS & FAMILY EMAIL EXCLUSIVE: 20% off online & in-store. Use code HOLIDAY online.

HAUTELOOK:

TODAY WEDNESDAY,  NOV. 11

• 
  BEGINS Thursday, 11/12/09
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  BEGINS Friday, 11/13/09
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GILT GROUP

TODAY, WEDNESDAY NOV. 11 – GILT:

Luminess Air: Airbrush Makeup

Jacob & Co Jewelry

Alberta Ferretti

L’Objet

Diane von Furstenberg Luggage

Elizabeth Cole Jewelry

Yohji Yamamoto, COMINGSOON & Limifeu

THURSDAY NOV. 12 – GILT:

Rock & Republic

magaschoni

Emanuel Ungaro

Mario Badescu Skincare

H2 at Hammerman Jewelry

Raymond Weil Watches

Abyss & Habidecor

GILT MAN:

Jean Shop

Arnold Zimberg

Abyss & Habidecor

Incase

Mario Badescu Skincare Men’s

Raymond Weil Watches

Back to Basics

JETSETTER:

Journey Into the Rainforest

FRIDAY NOV. 13 – GILT:

3.1 Phillip Lim

Kenneth Jay Lane Jewelry

Gryson

Monique Lhuillier

Jemma Kidd Make Up School

Anichini

GILT MAN:

Helmut Lang

Puma Black Label

Icebreaker

Men’s Contemporary Sale

Anichini

GILT FUSE:

Zobha Yoga

Alexis Hudson

SATURDAY Nov. 14 – GILT: Marie Chantal

there are some gorgeous boutiques and fantastic fashion blogs/ sites on twitter for you all to follow so I thought I would give you a list of the one’s I’m following and/ or ones who have been kind enough to follow me

EDIT

As it is expanding steadily I’ve moved this list to its own page, tweeting boutiques, companies and bloggers

Sumbody, based out of Sebastopol, CA, is one of my favorite spas and manufacturers of eco-friendly beauty products. Founder and CEO, Deborah Burnes, started the company in 2001 in response to the need for natural and ethically made skin care products.

Burnes recently wrote, Look Great, Live Green, a highly informative and tremendously helpful book and resource for anyone trying to live a greener lifestyle. It includes a comprehensive guide on product labeling,  natural skin care alternatives, and at home beauty recipes.

The following are just a few of my Sumbody faves, which also make really fantastic gifts:

Sumbody’s Study Buddy Aromatherapy Kit $19.95

Sumbody’s Study Aromatherapy Kit contains four mini-Zappers in: Distraction, Fatigue, Anxiety, and Stress. These aromatherapy oil blends are absolutely incredible in terms of “zapping” what they’re named after. Instructions say to apply on temples, neck, and chest, and I find swiping them on the ears and wrists to be highly effective as well. Anxiety (motherwort, chamomile, lavender extracts) and Distraction (sage, rosemary, peppermint extracts) are particularly beneficial to me on an almost daily basis. The full size Zappers are $14.95 and are available in many other helpful formulas.

Sumbody’s Zen Natural Soap $5.95

My entire well being feels…well, well in its being whenever I use Sumbody’s Zen Natural Soap. The citrus and eucalyptus blend of essential oils creates a very clean, peaceful, and uplifting experience while green tea and wakame seaweed reduce the signs of aging.

Sumbody’s Milky Rich Bonbons $3.95

Sumbody’s Milky Rich Bonbons are formulated with sea salt, cocoa butter, and goats milk, which keep skin exfoliated, glowing, and moisturized during the cold, wintry months. Delicately scented with vanilla and citrus essential oils, each bonbon lasts for 2-3 uses, and is the ideal stocking stuffer. Also available in a variety of scents.

Sumbody’s Mustard Detox Bath Fizzer $5.95

Slipping one of Sumbody’s Mustard Dextox Bath Fizzers into the tub is one of the greatest ways to fight off the winter blues and/or an illness as mustard warms and relaxes, detoxifies, and stimulates circulation. All you need is a good book and a couple hours.

SUMBODY SPECIALS & PROMOTIONS

BUY 2 SCRUBS GET 1 FREE
Use online code: scrub
For online customers, simply type in the code after your last name when placing your order to redeem the special. For example: Smith – scrub
*Free scrub will be a random pick from assorted scents

CA BOOK SIGNINGS OF Look Great, Live Green
12 Nov 2009 (7pm) Barnes & Noble Jack London Square
98 Broadway, Oakland CA 94607

20 Nov 2009 (7pm) Copperfield’s Books
138 N Main St # 1, Sebastopol CA 95472

04 Dec 2009 (7pm) Sumbody Napa
3800 Bel Aire Plz Napa, CA 94558

10 Dec 2009 (7pm) Sumbody Alameda
1350 Park St Alameda, CA 94501

11 Dec 2009 (7pm) Sumbody Sebastopol
118 N Main St Sebastopol, CA 95472

Come visit our  historical downtown with it’s many antique shops, art galleries, old style bakery, beautiful architecture and more…. Brenham, Texas— County seat of  Washington County.   Sit a spell on one of our downtown park benches and watch the local scene.   Here are just a few glimpses of our incredible architecture and designated mainstreet downtown…………

Finally, Stella McCartney’s dream to create a collection for kids was achieved. She opens her Gap Kids store in Beverly Hills, California. After that, the launches also coming nationalwide across UK, Ireland, France, and Japan. Her whole collection was basically consist of soft colour palette which describe her signature clothes.

Liv Tyler

Amber Valletta

Fashion Industry's Virtual Trade Show by Z Global Mart

October sales mostly tepid

New York City ( November 5, 2009 ) More than half of U.S. retail chains posted October sales that fell short of Wall Street’s heightened expectations, raising concern about the strength of the recovery for the holiday season. Total October same-store sales rose 1.8%, below an estimate for a 2% gain, according to Thomson Reuters data. Still, it marked the strongest showing since June 2008, when sales rose 1.9%.

“It looks like we’re on track for kind of a mediocre season right now based upon October,” said Brean Murray, Carret & Co. analyst Eric Beder, in a Reuters report.

BJ’s Comparable Sales Excluding Gas Up 3.7% in October 2009

( November 5, 2009 ) BJ’s reported sales of USD 764.7 million for the five-week period ended October 31, 2009, a 3.5% increase over numbers reported for October 2008.

Pizza Hut iPhone app reaches $1 million in sales

Dallas ( November 5, 2009 ) After its launch in the iTunes App Store just three months ago, the Pizza Hut App for the iPhone and iPod touch has garnered more than $1 million in sales.

Pizza Hut is the first national pizza chain to introduce an ordering app for the iPhone and iPod touch, and is approaching 1 million downloads

CVS Appoints Denton to EVP and CFO

( November 5, 2009 ) CVS named David Denton to the new role of Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, effective January 1, 2010, replacing David Rickard who announced his retirement in February 2009. Denton joined CVS in 1999 and since then has held a number of positions, most recently Senior Vice President, Controller, and Chief Accounting Officer. Laird Daniels will replace Denton as Controller and Chief Accounting Officer. Daniels joined CVS in 1997, most recently holding the position of Vice President of Finance and Retail Controller.

Haverty profit up in Q3

Atlanta ( November 5, 2009 ) Haverty Furniture Cos. reported a net income of $501,000 in its third quarter, compared with a net loss of $1.5 million in the same period last year, due in part to cost cuts.

Third-quarter sales fell 13.5% to $151.9 million.

Hhgregg profit up in Q2 as new stores help sales

Indianapolis ( November 5, 2009 ) Hhgregg said Thursday its second-quarter profit jumped 46% as the appliance and electronics retailer opened seven new stores and spent less on advertising.

For the quarter ended Sept. 30, the company earned $4.9 million, compared with $3.4 million in the year-earlier period.

Gymboree sales up 2% in Q3

San Francisco ( November 5, 2009 ) Gymboree has reported a 2% rise in third quarter sales, while its same-store sales fell 4%.

The company had sales of $265.6 million in the quarter ended October, up from sales of $261.3 million a year earlier.

eBay to launch fashion magazine

San Jose, Calif. ( November 5, 2009 ) eBay plans to launch an online magazine called The Inside Source that will discuss fashion trends and the trendiest items for sale on the site, according to The New York Times.

The online magazine is aimed for the shopper “who is sophisticated, has a sensibility about fashion and lifestyle and may be familiar with eBay but maybe not the full extent of everything it has to offer,” said Meredith Barnett, the site’s editorial director.

NRF: Tax refund in unemployment bill will help save retail jobs

Washington, D.C. ( November 5, 2009 ) The National Retail Federation said Thursday it welcomes the passage of legislation that will bring recession-plagued retailers and other businesses more than $10 billion in cash by lengthening the period during which they can “carry back” current losses to claim a tax refund from previous years when they made a profit.

“This legislation will provide retailers with an important source of capital to finance their operations and keep employees on the payroll,” NRF VP and tax counsel Rachelle Bernstein said. “Because retail sales have fallen so dramatically over the past year and access to capital has been so limited, retailers are experiencing severe challenges in finding the cash they need to operate their businesses as the economy moves toward recovery.”

Bebe sales down in Q1

Brisbane, Calif. ( November 5, 2009 ) Bebe stores reported that net sales for its first quarter ended Oct. 3, were $125.7 million, down 23.0% from $163.3 million for the same period last year.

Same-store sales for the quarter decreased 25.7% compared with a decrease of 10.8% for the prior-year quarter.

Cache announces exec appointment

New York City ( November 5, 2009 ) Cache announced that Rabia Farhang has joined the company as executive VP, general merchandise manager.

Farhang has 25 years experience in the retail industry. Most recently, she held the position of VP merchandising for White House|Black Market. During her 12-year tenure there, she led merchant teams in sportswear as well as dresses and accessories

CVS subject of FTC investigation

New York City ( November 5, 2009 ) The Federal Trade Commission is investigating some of CVS Caremark Corp.’s business practices, according to the Associated Press.

The company did not disclose the details of the “nonpublic investigation,” but said it has not violated any antitrust laws. CVS suggested the FTC inquiry is connected to complaints made by the Change to Win coalition of labor unions

Jo-Ann same-store sales up 4.3% in Q3

Hudson, Ohio ( November 5, 2009 ) Jo-Ann Stores said Thursday sales for the third quarter ended Oct. 31 increased 6.0% to $509.1 million, from $480.1 million for the same period last year. Based on better-than-expected results, the company increased its full year fiscal 2010 outlook.

Same-store sales increased 4.3% compared with a 1.5% same-store sales decrease for the third quarter last year. Traffic increased 4.9% while average ticket declined 0.6%.

Whole Foods turns in healthy Q4 results

Austin, Texas ( November 5, 2009 ) Whole Foods Market said Wednesday that it earned $28.7 million in the fourth quarter, up from $1.5 million In the year-ago period. Stringent cost-control measures, effective inventory management, improved store-level performance and increase in lower-priced brands drove earnings growth.

Revenue grew 2.3% to $1.8 billion. Same-store sales decreased 0.9%. But after five quarters of year-over-year declines, the company has seen that key figure jump 1.6% in the first five weeks of the current quarter.

Gap and other companies in effort to support climate change legislation

Washington, D.C. ( November 5, 2009 ) More than a dozen leading U.S. corporations, including Gap, announced the launch of a new initiative to support Congressional action on clean energy and climate change legislation.

“Gap is taking action on climate change now — in fact, we have reduced our energy consumption by 20% over the past five years,” said Kindley Walsh Lawlor, senior director, global responsibility, Gap. “While we have more work to do to lessen our impact, we also believe collaboration is key to making positive, sustainable change. That’s why we’re pleased to be standing among forward-thinking businesses that support climate and energy policy in the United States.”

Raley’s honored for green refrigeration technology

( November 5, 2009 ) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency today awarded Raley’s Supermarket with a GreenChill gold-level award for innovative green refrigeration technology in its newest supermarket, which opened Wednesday in Tracy, Calif.

The GreenChill Partnership works with supermarket industries through a cooperative alliance to reduce their emissions of ozone-depleting and greenhouse gases.

Results mixed for department stores

New York City ( November 5, 2009 ) Department store retailers turned in mixed results in October, with luxury retailers Saks and Nordstrom exceeding Street views.Nordstrom said its October same-store sales rose 6.5%, ahead of analyst expectations for a 3% gain. Total sales for the four weeks ended Oct. 31 rose 15% to $607 million, from $529 million a year ago.

J.C. Penney said its October same-store sales fell 4.5% in October, better than what the company forecast, but below the analyst estimates of a 2.3% decline. The company raised its third-quarter earnings forecast slightly. At Kohl’s Corp., same-store sales rose 1.4%, and total sales increased 4.9% as the chain increased its projection for third-quarter earnings. Analysts, on average, had expected same-store sales to rise 6.2%, according to Thomson Reuters.

Macy’s said its sales edged down 0.8% in October, better than it what it had projected. Total sales for the four-week period ended Oct. 31 fell 1% to $1.71 billion. Analysts surveyed by Thomson Reuters, on average, expected same-store sales to fall 0.1%. Saks’ sales rose 0.7%. Analysts, on average, had expected same-store sales to fall 3.6%, according to Thomson Reuters. Dillard’s sales fell 8%, in line with analysts’ estimates.

Costco tops Street in October

New York City ( November 5, 2009 ) Budget-conscious shoppers continued to favor bargain and bulk sellers over most other merchants in October. The shopping patterns favored such retailers as Costco Wholesale Corp., whose same-store sales rose 5%, beating analysts’ average estimate of a 4.7% increase. The company was helped by a decline in the U.S. dollar that lifted international sales by 17%. In the United States, sales rose 2%.

October sales a mixed bag for apparel chains

New York City ( November 5, 2009 ) U.S. apparel retailers reported October sales that rebounded from the lows of a year ago, but many failed to surpass Wall Street’s boosted expectations as consumers continue to spend selectively as the holiday season approaches.

Among the winners were Gap, whose same-store sales in October rose 4%, a bigger increase than analysts predicted, helped by strong results at its Old Navy chain. By division, sales fell 6% at Gap stores, rose 5% at Banana Republic and jumped 14% at Old Navy.

Bigg’s names CEO

( November 4, 2009 ) The president of grocery store chain Bigg’s is leaving the company to pursue other interests. Steve Kaczynski will be replaced by Jimmy Nichols, Bigg’s VP merchandising.

Kaczynski was named president of the 11-store regional chain in 2006. He previously worked for Wild Oats Market.

Borders debuts customizable e-cards

Ann Arbor, Mich. ( November 4, 2009 ) Borders is introducing customizable e-gift cards. Available online at borders.com/giftcards in a variety of colors and creative designs, e-gift cards can be created and delivered to recipients via e-mail within 24 hours.

The cards are instantly redeemable online at Borders.com and in stores nationwide, and like traditional Borders gift cards, there are no fees associated with e-gift cards, and they never expire.

CompUSA to open store in Houston

Houston ( November 4, 2009 ) CompUSA is re-entering the Houston market with a brand-new store after filing bankruptcy in 2007 and closing all of its Houston locations.

The company signed a lease last week for space in Village Plaza at Bunker Hill, a 455,000-sq.-ft. retail center.

Nordstrom launches international online shopping

( November 4, 2009 ) Nordstrom has introduced international shopping online to sell and ship products to customers in 30 countries.

Nordstrom will sell products internationally in a variety of foreign currencies.

MinuteClinic to move headquarters

Minneapolis ( November 4, 2009 ) MinuteClinic is relocating its headquarters from Minneapolis to Woonsocket, R.I., next year. The move will eliminate 150 jobs.

The move also supports its goal of tighter integration of MinuteClinic with CVS Caremark.

Meijer drops toy prices

Grand Rapids, Mich. ( November 4, 2009 ) Meijer is slashing prices on more than 400 popular toys in its toy department, while offering a number of toys for less than $5.

The price reductions are a part of the retailer’s ongoing Price Drop program, where thousands of unadvertised items — ranging from health & beauty products to garden supplies — are reduced in price every day.

Hot Topic same-store sales down 2.6% in Oct.

City of Industry, Calif. ( November 4, 2009 ) Hot Topic reported on Wednesday that its same-store sales were down 2.6% in October.

Meanwhile, its total net sales for the month were $52.0 million, down 2.5% from the same period last year.

Zumiez same-store sales drop in Oct.

Everett, Wash. ( November 4, 2009 ) Zumiez has announced that total net sales for the four-week period ended Oct. 31 decreased 1.5% to $24.7 million, compared with $25.0 million for the same period in the year before.

Meanwhile, same-store sales at the company decreased 8.9% for the period compared with a 13.1% decrease a year ago.

Retailers forecast 1.4% increase in holiday same-store sales

Chicago ( November 4, 2009 ) Chief marketing officers at leading U.S. retailers expect both overall sales and same-store sales to increase by 2.6% and 1.4%, respectively, for the 2009 holiday season, according to accounting and consulting firm BDO Seidman, LLP.

Last year, the retailers included in the BDO Seidman Retail Compass Survey of chief marketing officers accurately predicted that overall sales for the 2008 holiday season would decrease by 2.8 %. According to the National Retail Federation, 2008 holiday retail sales were down 2.8% from the 2007 holiday season.

Family Dollar to remodel stores, target new customers

New York City ( November 4, 2009 ) Family Dollar Stores plans to open new stores, revamp older locations and target a new higher-income demographic, according to a Reuters report.

Family Dollar’s core lower-income shoppers have household incomes below $40,000, but the company has said it is attracting more shoppers with household incomes of up to $70,000 as unemployment rises and credit remains tight.

Walmart selects Cree LEDs for initial 650-store deployment

Durham, N.C. ( November 4, 2009 ) Cree has been selected to provide energy-efficient LED lighting to Walmart for new stores and renovations.

The discounter plans to install Cree LRP-38 LED light bulbs in 650 stores during the first year, replacing ceramic metal halide in the produce and electronics departments. The PAR38 style LED lamp was selected for its energy-efficiency, long lifetime, controlled beam and high color-rendition. Designed to last 50,000 hours, the lamp consumes 82% less energy than the 70-watt ceramic metal halide bulbs it replaces and can last more than five years in a 24/7 operating environment.

Cabela’s sells Wild Wings art division

Sidney, Neb. ( November 4, 2009 ) Cabela’s announced Wednesday the sale of its wildlife-art division, Wild Wings, to RDE Acquisition Co., which is owned by a former executive officer of Wild Wings. The closing of the sale took place on Oct. 30.

Barnes & Noble announces new Delaware location

New York City ( November 4, 2009 ) Barnes & Noble will open a new bookstore on Nov. 18 in the Christiana Mall, Newark, Del.

The store will stock close to 200,000 book, music, DVD and magazine titles and include a cafe serving Starbucks coffee.

Best Buy makes executive appointment

Grapevine, Texas ( November 4, 2009 ) GameStop Corp. announced Shawn D. Freeman has joined the company as senior VP and GM of digital business, a newly created position within the company. Most recently, he was president of Chicago-based Ticketsnow.com and senior VP resale for Ticketmaster North America, where he was responsible for all of Ticketmaster’s resale operations in North America.

Hat World completes acquisition of Sports Fan-Attic

Nashville, Tenn. ( November 4, 2009 ) Genesco announced that its Hat World subsidiary has completed the acquisition of the assets of Sports Fan-Attic, a Tampa, Fla.-based retailer of licensed sports headwear, apparel, accessories, and novelties. Sports Fan-Attic operates 37 stores in seven states, and had revenues of approximately $30 million for the 12 months ended Sep. 30. Terms of the acquisition were not disclosed.

Big 5 Sporting Goods Q3 profit jumps 80%

El Segundo, Calif. ( November 4, 2009 ) Big 5 Sporting Goods Corp. said Tuesday its profit rose 80% in the third quarter as sales climbed and it better managed inventory.

The chain earned $8 million in the quarter that ended Sept. 27, up from $4.5 million a year earlier.

Target denies report it plans to sell India unit

New York City ( November 4, 2009 ) Target Corp. on Wednesday denied a report that it was in talks to sell its captive center in Bangalore, India.

“Our captive center in Bangalore continues to be an important part of our long-term strategy and is highly integrated with our work and team in Minneapolis,” said Gregg Steinhafel, chairman, president and CEO of Target Corp. “We remain firmly committed to this Target team and are proud of the work they do. Recent rumors about a sale are ridiculous speculation.”

Lumber Liquidators revs up in Q3

Toano, Va. ( November 4, 2009 ) Toano, Va.-based Lumber Liquidators reported a net income of $7.8 million for the third quarter ended Sept. 30, up 42.1% from $5.5 million as reported for the same period last year.

For the nine months ended Sept. 30, net income was reported as $19.8 million, up 26.5% from $15.7 million as reported last year. Sales were $407.5 million, up 11.4% from $365.6 million as reported last year.

October sales show slight signs of improvement

New York City ( November 4, 2009 ) U.S. retail sales figures from a key data service show signs of a rebound in October from last year’s plunge. SpendingPulse, a service of MasterCard Advisors, reports that categories including jewelry and apparel posted gains in October compared with a year earlier. SpendingPulse estimates sales in all payment forms including cash and checks.

Michael McNamara, VP at SpendingPulse, said the sales look better mainly because they are being compared with abysmal spending a year earlier as the financial meltdown ballooned.

The Container Store debuts new Web site powered by Broadleaf Commerce

Dallas ( November 4, 2009 ) The Container Store has announced the re-launch of its Web site powered by Broadleaf Commerce.

The new e-commerce site allows The Container Store to realize cost savings and better manage their online catalog and shopping cart, which ultimately provides for an even greater level of customer service. Although the Web site visually and functionally does not look much different, with the Broadleaf Commerce platform, it is faster and has been customized to align with their existing store and business systems.

Borders will ship out-of-stock items free

Ann Arbor, Mich. ( November 3, 2009 ) Borders Group said Tuesday it will offer free shipping on any items not found in its stores that are available on its Web site in an effort to drive sales ahead of the holidays.

The retailer said that if customers don’t find an item in stock at a Borders store, and it is available on Borders.com, Borders will pay for shipping costs to the customer’s home.

Netflix prices $200 million senior notes offering

Los Gatos, Calif. ( November 3, 2009 ) Netflix said Tuesday it will sell $200 million aggregate principal amount of its 8.55 senior notes due 2017 to qualified institutional buyers.

The offering is expected to close Friday.

Kohl’s tops among retailers on EPA’s green-power purchaser list

( November 3, 2009 ) Kohl’s Department Stores said Tuesday it has been awarded the top spot in retail on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s quarterly rankings of top green power purchasers in EPA’s Green Power Partnership.

This the second time the retailer has held the top spot.

American Eagle to open Times Square

New York City ( November 3, 2009 ) American Eagle Outfitters will open a flagship store in Manhattan’s Times Square on Nov. 19.

The 25,000-sq.-ft. store features four levels of shopping, including dedicated floors for AE denim, as well as aerie, the company’s intimates and dormwear brand.

E.W. Howell launches construction on Lowe’s at Staten Island

Woodbury, N.Y. ( November 3, 2009 ) General contractor and construction management firm E.W. Howell said it has broken ground on its ninth construction project for Lowe’s Home Improvement Warehouse.

The new store will be located on Staten Island, N.Y., and is slated to be completed in the late fall of 2010. It will feature 117,000 sq. ft. of retail space with an additional 22,000-sq.-ft. garden center.

Best Buy to launch branded movie download service

Minneapolis ( November 3, 2009 ) Best Buy Co. said Tuesday that it will launch its own movie download service for consumer electronics sold in its stores.

The retailer said it will soon roll out a movie download service in partnership with Roxio CinemaNow.

Dick’s expands to Washington state

Seattle ( November 3, 2009 ) Dick’s Sporting Goods said Tuesday it will open its first Washington store at South Hill Mall in Puyallup next spring.

The new Dick’s store will cover nearly 60,000 sq. ft. of space previously occupied by bankrupt Circuit City and Linens ‘n Things.

Chute Gerdeman designs Skazka flagship opening in central Moscow

Moscow ( November 3, 2009 ) Columbus, Ohio-based Chute Gerdeman Retail had designed a flagship toy store that will open next month near Moscow’s historic Red Square.

The new 12,000-sq. ft. Skazka store is owned and operated by F.D. Lab, one of Russia’s largest consumer goods companies. It will blend traditional Russian style with American modernity, combining an underlying motif of Russian fairytales with elements of contemporary fun and interactivity.

Anthropologie opens new store at CityCentre

Houston ( November 3, 2009 ) Midway Cos. said Tuesday that Anthropologie has opened at the company’s CityCentre project in Houston.

Anthropologie opened a 11,500-sq.-ft. location in the $500-million development which spans 1.8 million sq. ft.

Poll: Real estate industry pessimistic on recovery

Los Angeles ( November 3, 2009 ) Online commercial real estate marketplace LoopNet announced on Tuesday its just-completed fourth quarter LoopNet Pulse showed a declining number of real estate professionals expect an economic recovery in 2010.

Compared with the previous survey, conducted in July 2009, in which 66% of respondents expected the volume of commercial real estate transactions to rebound in 2010 or earlier, the fourth-quarter survey found that number has decreased to just over 50%.

Year-over-year weekly retail sales drop 4.6%

Chicago ( November 3, 2009 ) ShopperTrak reported Tuesday that year-over-year GAFO retail sales declined 4.6% for the week ending Oct. 31, while sales fell 1.2% compared with the previous week ending Oct. 24.

ShopperTrak’s National Retail Sales Estimate revealed that GAFO (general merchandise, apparel, furniture, sporting goods, electronics, hobby, books and other related store sales) retail sales were slower than expected for the week as cool weather in the east and the early-season snow storm in the mountains and upper Midwest negatively impacted consumer spending.

Barnes & Noble sued over e-reader

( November 3, 2009 ) Technology firm Spring Design said Tuesday that it has filed a lawsuit against Barnes & Noble, alleging the retailer misappropriated trade secrets and violated a nondisclosure agreement when it launched its electronic reader Nook last month.

Spring Design said Nook’s features are too close to its Alex e-reader. Both devices feature two screens and run on Google’s Android operating system.

Talbot’s and Gomez team to test Web site prior to launch

Lexington, Mass. ( November 3, 2009 ) Talbots said Tuesday it has completed a real-world load test to understand the impact of load on the end-user Web experience. According to Talbots, the on-demand Web load test from Gomez helped optimize the peak performance of the redesigned talbots.com prior to launch.

Talbot’s new site was built using multiple Ajax and rich Internet applications technologies, including third-party features such as video, pop-up zoom, and wish lists to satisfy customers’ increasing expectations for rich and engaging online shopping experiences.

Walmart kicks off hunger-relief effort

Bentonville, Ark. ( November 3, 2009 ) Wal-Mart Stores said Tuesday it has launched its holiday-giving initiative that will provide $32 million in monetary and in-kind donations to charitable organizations across the United States.

Walmart and the Walmart Foundation kicked-off “Walmart Gives Back;” Executives from Feeding America and Meals On Wheels joined Walmart to launch the campaign by sending off a convoy of 35 trucks donated by the Walmart Foundation.

Food Lion exec recognized as diversity champion

Salisbury, N.C. ( November 3, 2009 ) Food Lion said Tuesday that Eric Watson, VP talent acquisition, has been named recipient of The Diversity Forum’s first-ever Diversity Champion Award.

The Diversity Champion Award recognizes an individual who exhibits outstanding community leadership and advances employment diversity.

Meijer selects APT solution to measure management programs

Grand Rapids, Mich. ( November 3, 2009 ) Meijer said Tuesday it has signed an agreement to license the Test & Learn Management System from Applied Predictive Technologies.

According to APT, the system can help retailers determine the impact a management program will have on key performance measures such as sales, profits and market share. It can also help determine whether a program will have a bigger impact on some locations than others.

JoS. A. Bank debuts new Web site

Hampstead, Md. ( November 3, 2009 ) JoS. A. Bank Clothiers said Tuesday it has launched a new e-commerce Web site designed to improve functionality and efficiency.

The company said its new site features larger images, product photos with zoom-in functionality, plus advanced product search functionality.

Wal-Mart gets final O.K. on Nevada wages settlement

Las Vegas ( November 3, 2009 ) A Nevada judge said late Monday that Wal-Mart Stores received final approval of a settlement stipulating the retailer will pay between $65 million and $85 million to resolve wage-and-hour violations alleged by millions of workers.

Nevada District Court Judge Philip M. Pro in Las Vegas issued final approval of the settlement on Monday, which covered 39 class-action lawsuits across multiple states against Wal-Mart.

Grocer Sprouts joins EPA’s GreenChill program

( November 3, 2009 ) Sprouts Farmers Market said Tuesday it has joined the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s GreenChill Advanced Refrigeration Partnership and voluntarily committed to reducing refrigerant emissions, according to a report in Supermarket News.

“Sprouts Farmers Market shares the EPA’s commitment in decreasing refrigerant emissions through innovative HVAC, refrigeration design and leak-tight practices in all existing and future stores” said Jerry Stutler, VP construction and facility engineering for Sprouts. “With this new partnership we are making an effort to be an environmentally conscious neighbor and grocer.”

Peet’s Coffee to acquire Diedrich Coffee for $213M

Emeryville, Calif. ( November 3, 2009 ) Coffee chain retailer Peet’s Coffee & Tea announced late Monday that it will acquire Irvine, Calif.-based roaster and distributor Diedrich Coffee for $213 million in cash and debt assumption.

The transaction brings such Peet’s brands as Diedrich Coffee, Coffee People and the single-serve rights to the Gloria Jean’s coffee brand, as well as Diedrich’s roasting and packaging facility.

Stage Stores chief honored by global charity

Houston ( November 3, 2009 ) A global charity called Kids in Distressed Situations said Tuesday it will honor Stage Stores’ president and CEO Andrew Hall among its four fashion industry leaders for outstanding philanthropic commitment.

Wal-Mart sued by development company

( November 3, 2009 ) Granite Development said Monday it has filed a lawsuit against Wal-Mart, alleging the retailer reneged on an agreement to build a store in southeast Raleigh, N.C.

According to a report in the Triangle Business Journal, Granite sold a property in 2007 to Wal-Mart. As part of the sale, the two companies signed an agreement specifying that the retailer would construct a store while Granite would develop surrounding parcels.

Walgreens reports sales spike in October

Deerfield, Ill. ( November 3, 2009 ) Walgreens said Tuesday that sales for October increased 9.4%, to approximately $5.7 million from about $5.2 million in the year-ago period.

Comp-store sales increased 4.9% overall, while front-end comps increased 4.7%.

Zara opens on Chicago’s Magnificent Mile

New York ( November 2, 2009 ) Zara, the fast-fashion retailer from Spain, opened its largest U.S. store on Friday, at 700 N. Michigan Avenue in Chicago.

The store, with three floors measuring 17,500 square feet, sells women’s clothing on the first and second floors, children’s on the second floor, and men’s clothes on the third floor.

Schlotzsky’s selects in-store marketing solution

Atlanta ( November 2, 2009 ) Fast-casual dining chain Schlotzsky’s has implemented an in-store marketing solution from Synq Solutions.

The partnership will help the restaurant company leverage its local store marketing capabilities, as well as its full suite of QSR and fast casual marketing solutions, which include production, printing, fulfillment and shipping.

Survey: Consumers to pay for holiday purchases with cash

Silver Spring, Md. ( November 2, 2009 ) More consumers intend to shop with cash this holiday season, according to a survey conducted by the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC). In fact, about 68% plan to use cash over credit.

Meanwhile, about 12% of consumers said they plan to pay their bill in full when it arrives, while 10% said they will pay their bill over time, NFCC’s 2009 Financial Literacy Survey revealed. About 10% will utilize lay-away programs.

Wal-Mart announces more toy price cuts

Bentonville, Ark. ( November 2, 2009 ) Wal-Mart has announced 100 additional price cuts on toys to help shoppers save on holiday spending.

The prices of more than 100 toys will be rolled back this week in stores and online — many at an additional 20% and 30% savings, and will last through the Christmas shopping period.

CVS, Medco get federal worker contract extensions

New York City ( November 2, 2009 ) Pharmacy benefits managers Medco Health Solutions Inc. and CVS Caremark Corp. said Monday they each received one-year contract extensions with drug benefit programs for federal employees.

CVS handles retail pharmacy benefit services for the Federal Employee Program, and Medco runs the mail service and specialty pharmacy programs. Each company had a three-year contract with the FEP that was extended until the end of 2011.

NCR buys Netkey to provide kiosk, digital signage solution

Duluth, Ga. ( November 2, 2009 ) NCR Corp. has purchased the assets of Netkey, Inc., a provider of kiosk and digital signage software applications. Terms were not disclosed.

Netkey’s enterprise software platform uses a scalable architecture that enables fast and flexible development of applications for kiosk and digital signage-based solutions. NCR will combine Netkey’s software platform with its own technologies to provide an enterprise solution. In addition, NCR will continue to provide multivendor hardware support with the Netkey solution.

Two Milwaukee-area Blockbusters to close

Milwaukee ( November 2, 2009 ) Two Milwaukee-area Blockbuster stores are scheduled to close in January. The move is a part of company’s efforts to reduce its store locations, according to The Business Journal of Milwaukee.

The two locations are in South Milwaukee, and both are scheduled to close on Jan. 10, 2010.

Ruddick income drops for the year

Charlotte, N.C. ( November 2, 2009 ) Ruddick Corp. reported that its income for the year ended Sept. 27 dropped to $86 million from $96.8 million in 2008. Ruddick is the parent of supermarket chain company Harris Teeter Inc. and American & Efird Inc., a thread and specialty yarn maker.

Sales in 2009 rose 2.1% to $4.08 billion, due in part to a 4.4% increase in sales at Harris Teeter, which posted revenue of $3.83 billion. Those gains partially offset a decline in sales at American & Efird, which had revenue of $250.8 million in fiscal 2009, down from $327.6 million the previous year.

Rite Aid under pressure to unload West Coast ops

Longueuil, Quebec ( November 2, 2009 ) Rite Aid may be under pressure to unload its West Coast operations from its largest shareholder the Jean Coutu Group, according to a Bloomberg report.

Rite Aid, which has lost money for nine straight quarters, must gain market share in places like Pennsylvania and New York, where it is already a leader, to bolster earnings, said CEO Francois Jean Coutu of Jean Coutu Group Inc. Rite Aid said it doesn’t plan to sell western stores.

Roundy’s acquiring Aurora in-store pharmacies

Milwaukee ( November 2, 2009 ) Roundy’s Supermarkets Inc. plans to buy the pharmacies located inside its Pick ‘n Save and Copps stores from Aurora Health Care.

Roundy’s said it expects to begin operating the 20 pharmacies in December after receiving regulatory approvals.

Amazon.com closes on Zappos.com acquisition

Seattle ( November 2, 2009 ) Amazon.com has closed on its acquisition of Zappos.com Inc., according to the Associated Press.

Amazon said in July that it would pay about 10 million shares of common stock for privately held Zappos.

Publix profit up 26.3% in Q3

Lakeland, Fla. ( November 2, 2009 ) Publix reported that sales for its third quarter were $5.83 billion, a 0.6% increase from last year’s $5.8 billion. Same-store sales for the third quarter of 2009 decreased 4.7%.

Net earnings for third quarter 2009 were $254.9 million, compared to $201.8 million in 2008, an increase of 26.3%.

Charming Shoppes completes sale of credit-card program, makes exec appointments

Bensalem, Pa. ( November 2, 2009 ) Charming Shoppes on Monday announced it has completed the sale of its credit-card receivables programs to Alliance Data Systems Corp. The two companies have also entered into a 10-year operating agreement for the servicing of the retailer’s private-label credit-card receivables program.

CIT Group files for bankruptcy

New York City ( November 2, 2009 ) In one of the biggest bankruptcy filings in U.S. corporate history, CIT Group Inc., the 101-year-old commercial lender that saw its funding dry up in the credit crunch, filed for bankruptcy in an effort to cut $10 billion in debt following a failed debt exchange and U.S. taxpayer bailout. The company provides badly needed credit to thousands of small and mid-sized businesses, and is a critical part of the flow of capital in the retail sector.

CIT listed $71 billion in assets and $64.9 billion in liabilities in a Chapter 11 petition Sunday in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Manhattan. The Treasury Department said the government probably won’t recover much, if any, of the $2.3 billion in taxpayer money that went to CIT.

Raley’s CEO resigns

West Sacramento, Calif. ( November 2, 2009 ) William Coyne, Raley’s president and CEO since 2003, has resigned effective immediately, the supermarket retailer announced Friday.

The privately held company said its board of directors will meet soon “to outline a plan for selecting a CEO,” though it said there is no specific time frame.

Zale target of SEC probe

Dallas ( November 2, 2009 ) Zale Corp. is being investigated by the Securities and Exchange Commission. The SEC probe comes after the jewelry seller said it would restate its 2008 and 2009 earnings following a review of its accounting for advertising costs.

Last month Zale delayed reporting fourth-quarter results twice to complete a review of accounting for prepaid advertising costs that surfaced during its year-end closing process.

Retailers suspend business dealings with Mich. grower

Grand Rapids, Mich. ( October 30, 2009 ) Wal-Mart, Kroger and Meijer are suspending business with a large southwestern Michigan blueberry grower after investigators found children as young as 6 working in the grower’s fields.

The retailers said Friday they have stopped buying products from Adkin Blue Ribbon Blueberry Co. near South Haven.

Starbucks consolidates loyalty card programs

( October 30, 2009 ) Starbucks Friday announced that its new customer loyalty card program, called My Starbucks Rewards, will launch on Dec. 26, 2009 in all U.S. Starbucks stores.

The new streamlined program consolidates the chain’s two current popular programs, Starbucks Card Rewards and Starbucks Gold card. It has no annual fee, allows members to use one registered card (any Starbucks Card) and provides customized rewards that increase with frequency of use.

Target.com to expand free shipping for holidays

Minneapolis ( October 30, 2009 ) Target Corp. said Friday it has expanded the number of products on its Web site that will be shipped for free during the holidays by 50% to more than 100,000.

If a customer buys one of the designated items and spends more than $50 on Target’s Web site, he or she will get free shipping beginning Nov. 1. Target.com will also offer guests a 15% discount on all furniture orders of $125 or more from Nov. 1 to Dec. 20.

McDonald’s hoping for LEED Gold for Cary, N.C., location

New York City ( October 30, 2009 ) McDonald’s is hoping to be awarded LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold certification for its unit in Cary, N.C.

The restaurant, which opened in July, replaced a 25-year-old McDonald’s on the same spot. The original building was torn down and rebuilt (with materials that feature a high recycled content) to achieve LEED certification from the U.S. Green Building Council.

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