Bloomberg
U.S. landlord Essential Properties Realty Trust Inc. just went public as shares of other retail real estate owners struggle. What’s its angle?
Don’t just sell stuff.
“We focus on a very specific set of properties that have this service component, so it’s not just a generic box selling retail goods,” Chief Executive Officer Pete Mavoides said in an interview. “We own fitness centers, dental clinics, restaurants -- granular tenants that provide a service.”. . . more
Friday, June 22, 2018
Dollar General jumps into self-checkout game
Chain Store Age
Dollar General is letting some shoppers use their smartphones to pay for their order and skip the checkout line.
The discounter launched its DG Go! app, which allows customers to use their phones to scan items as they shop, and checkout directly through the app. The app, which was released in May, is available in Apple’s App store and on Google Play. . . . more
Dollar General is letting some shoppers use their smartphones to pay for their order and skip the checkout line.
The discounter launched its DG Go! app, which allows customers to use their phones to scan items as they shop, and checkout directly through the app. The app, which was released in May, is available in Apple’s App store and on Google Play. . . . more
Winners, losers in Supreme Court ruling
Chain Store Age
The Supreme Court handed a victory to the nation’s brick-and-mortar retailers on Thursday, overturning ruling that e-commerce marketers only had to collect sales tax in states where they had some sort of physical presence.
Physical retailers are clearly the big winners in the Supreme Court’s decision. (It’s estimated that not collecting sales tax gives online retailers anywhere from a 5% to 9.98% advantage, depending on the state, over traditional retailers in product pricing.). . . more
The Supreme Court handed a victory to the nation’s brick-and-mortar retailers on Thursday, overturning ruling that e-commerce marketers only had to collect sales tax in states where they had some sort of physical presence.
Physical retailers are clearly the big winners in the Supreme Court’s decision. (It’s estimated that not collecting sales tax gives online retailers anywhere from a 5% to 9.98% advantage, depending on the state, over traditional retailers in product pricing.). . . more
Amazon Prime Day 2018 date leaked - 36 hours of deals start midday on July 16th
TechRadar
Amazon Prime Day 2018 will take place on Tuesday July 17th with deals starting at midday the day before - Monday 16th. That’s all according to a Prime Day 2018 banner published on the Amazon UK website - presumably in error - and discovered by TechRadar this morning.
The 36 hour period for Prime Day 2018 makes it the longest Prime ‘day’ ever - providing final and clinching proof that Amazon cares not for the mental health or sleep patterns of TechRadar's hard working deals team. It eclipses last year’s 30-hour period which started the evening before at 9pm and also breaks with Amazon’s recent tradition of running Prime Day on the second Tuesday in July.. . . more
Amazon Prime Day 2018 will take place on Tuesday July 17th with deals starting at midday the day before - Monday 16th. That’s all according to a Prime Day 2018 banner published on the Amazon UK website - presumably in error - and discovered by TechRadar this morning.
The 36 hour period for Prime Day 2018 makes it the longest Prime ‘day’ ever - providing final and clinching proof that Amazon cares not for the mental health or sleep patterns of TechRadar's hard working deals team. It eclipses last year’s 30-hour period which started the evening before at 9pm and also breaks with Amazon’s recent tradition of running Prime Day on the second Tuesday in July.. . . more
J.Crew, mired in debt, is trying to turn around its business
The Washington Post
J.Crew sales have been tumbling for more than three years, amid changing consumer habits and increased competition. It is in the process of closing 70 stores, after which about 250 will remain. Add to that nearly $2 billion in debt, much of it from a 2011 leveraged buyout, and analysts say the company’s problems cast a shadow on recent turnaround efforts.
“There are so many issues here, but the biggest one is a crippling debt load — we’re talking $30 million a quarter just in interest payments,” said Neil Saunders, managing director of GlobalData Retail. “It’s an eye-watering number and it makes a turnaround just about impossible.” . . . more
J.Crew sales have been tumbling for more than three years, amid changing consumer habits and increased competition. It is in the process of closing 70 stores, after which about 250 will remain. Add to that nearly $2 billion in debt, much of it from a 2011 leveraged buyout, and analysts say the company’s problems cast a shadow on recent turnaround efforts.
“There are so many issues here, but the biggest one is a crippling debt load — we’re talking $30 million a quarter just in interest payments,” said Neil Saunders, managing director of GlobalData Retail. “It’s an eye-watering number and it makes a turnaround just about impossible.” . . . more
Target, Best Buy laud Supreme Court decision allowing states to collect taxes from online retailers
Star Tribune
Minnesota's biggest retailers heralded the U.S. Supreme Court's decision on Thursday to clear the way for states to require companies such as Amazon and Wayfair to collect sales tax.
Brick-and-mortar businesses, including Target Corp. and Best Buy Co. Inc., have long complained that they are disadvantaged by having to charge sales taxes while many of their online competitors do not. States have said that they are missing out on tens of billions of dollars in annual revenue under a 1992 Supreme Court ruling that helped spur the rise of internet shopping.. . . more
Minnesota's biggest retailers heralded the U.S. Supreme Court's decision on Thursday to clear the way for states to require companies such as Amazon and Wayfair to collect sales tax.
Brick-and-mortar businesses, including Target Corp. and Best Buy Co. Inc., have long complained that they are disadvantaged by having to charge sales taxes while many of their online competitors do not. States have said that they are missing out on tens of billions of dollars in annual revenue under a 1992 Supreme Court ruling that helped spur the rise of internet shopping.. . . more
Westfield Plans To Build 670 Apartments At Montgomery Mall After Sears Closes
bisnow.com
The Sears at the Westfield Montgomery Mall is expected to close next year, and the mall owner is looking to launch a major mixed-use development on its piece of the property.
The Sears at the Westfield Montgomery Mall is expected to close next year, and the mall owner is looking to launch a major mixed-use development on its piece of the property.
Westfield presented plans to the community Wednesday to build 670 apartments and 300K SF of new retail and hotel space on the 28-acre site now occupied by the Sears and the surrounding parking lot, Bethesda Magazine reports. . . . more
Thursday, June 21, 2018
Supreme Court: States can collect online sales tax
Chain Store Age
The U.S. Supreme Court has handed down its eagerly anticipated decision regarding online sales tax collection — and some digital retailers are not going to be happy.
In a 5-to-4 ruling, the court opened the door for states to collect sales taxes on companies that operate entirely online and do not have a physical presence in that state. The decision overturned a longstanding rule that states can collect sales taxes only on sales if the retailer has a “bricks and mortar” presence in that state.. . . more
The U.S. Supreme Court has handed down its eagerly anticipated decision regarding online sales tax collection — and some digital retailers are not going to be happy.
In a 5-to-4 ruling, the court opened the door for states to collect sales taxes on companies that operate entirely online and do not have a physical presence in that state. The decision overturned a longstanding rule that states can collect sales taxes only on sales if the retailer has a “bricks and mortar” presence in that state.. . . more
22 experiential stores NYC has to offer
Retail Dive
Whether you're in Manhattan for pleasure or business, there are dozens of experiential stores to check out. Some double as community hangouts, some serve as learning experiences and some are just for the fun of it.
Here are 22 to hit up next time you're in the Big Apple. . . . more
Whether you're in Manhattan for pleasure or business, there are dozens of experiential stores to check out. Some double as community hangouts, some serve as learning experiences and some are just for the fun of it.
Here are 22 to hit up next time you're in the Big Apple. . . . more
Trader Joe’s rates high in customer experience, reports study
Supermarket News
Trader Joe’s ranked first among multichannel retailers in Forrester Research’s 2018 U.S. Customer Experience Index.
Based on a survey of more than 110,000 U.S. adults, the Forrester CX Index aims to measure and rank how well a brand’s customer experience strengthens shopper loyalty. The Cambridge, Mass.-based research firm benchmarked the customer experience quality at 287 U.S. brands, including 42 leading multichannel retailers. . . . more
Trader Joe’s ranked first among multichannel retailers in Forrester Research’s 2018 U.S. Customer Experience Index.
Based on a survey of more than 110,000 U.S. adults, the Forrester CX Index aims to measure and rank how well a brand’s customer experience strengthens shopper loyalty. The Cambridge, Mass.-based research firm benchmarked the customer experience quality at 287 U.S. brands, including 42 leading multichannel retailers. . . . more
Dollar General in management hiring spree
Chain Store Age
Dollar General needs more managers to support its rapid growth — and it wants them sooner rather than later.
The discounter on Thursday said that during the next 10 days it is looking to fill management roles within its retail operations, distribution centers and corporate functions. Available positions include retail district managers, retail region directors, distribution center assistant directors and distribution center supervisors.
Dollar General continues to grow at a fast pace. It is on track to open 900 stores in 2018.. . . more
Dollar General needs more managers to support its rapid growth — and it wants them sooner rather than later.
The discounter on Thursday said that during the next 10 days it is looking to fill management roles within its retail operations, distribution centers and corporate functions. Available positions include retail district managers, retail region directors, distribution center assistant directors and distribution center supervisors.
Dollar General continues to grow at a fast pace. It is on track to open 900 stores in 2018.. . . more
Williams-Sonoma CEO: Even Amazon sees the benefits of having physical stores
CNBC
As Williams-Sonoma's business shifted from selling via catalogs to selling online, the furniture and kitchenware retailer remained consistently adamant about one thing: its stores.
"Even Amazon believes that they should have some real spaces," Laura Alber, the company's president and CEO, told CNBC on Wednesday. "When you go in a store and it's wonderful, it helps you make the purchase.". . . more
As Williams-Sonoma's business shifted from selling via catalogs to selling online, the furniture and kitchenware retailer remained consistently adamant about one thing: its stores.
"Even Amazon believes that they should have some real spaces," Laura Alber, the company's president and CEO, told CNBC on Wednesday. "When you go in a store and it's wonderful, it helps you make the purchase.". . . more
Kroger nets $2B profit on sale of convenience stores
Cincinnati Enquirer
Kroger reported a $2 billion profit Thursday for its first quarter, reaping a windfall from the sale of its convenience store business.
Excluding its $1.8 billion profit from the sale of its business, Kroger netted a $626 million profit.
Total sales rose 3.4 percent to $37.5 billion. Identical-store sales in supermarkets excluding fuel increased 1.4 percent during the fiscal quarter ended May 26.. . . more
Kroger reported a $2 billion profit Thursday for its first quarter, reaping a windfall from the sale of its convenience store business.
Excluding its $1.8 billion profit from the sale of its business, Kroger netted a $626 million profit.
Total sales rose 3.4 percent to $37.5 billion. Identical-store sales in supermarkets excluding fuel increased 1.4 percent during the fiscal quarter ended May 26.. . . more
Debt Extension Isn’t Likely to Save Sears, Experts Say
NREI
Sears Holding Corp. continues to gasp for air. However, the struggling company just got some breathing room from creditors after receiving more time to refinance its debt.
In a June 4 Securities and Exchange Commission filing, Sears says it has two additional years to pay back its lenders, including Sears CEO Eddie Lampert. The company consolidated three loans, including two real estate loans, totaling $593 million, which were due next month. The new consolidated loan’s due date has been pushed out to July 20, 2020. . . . more
Sears Holding Corp. continues to gasp for air. However, the struggling company just got some breathing room from creditors after receiving more time to refinance its debt.
In a June 4 Securities and Exchange Commission filing, Sears says it has two additional years to pay back its lenders, including Sears CEO Eddie Lampert. The company consolidated three loans, including two real estate loans, totaling $593 million, which were due next month. The new consolidated loan’s due date has been pushed out to July 20, 2020. . . . more
Amazon rolls out try-before-you-buy program to all Prime members
Chain Store Age
Amazon’s Prime Wardrobe service is now available to all Prime members — and no invitation is necessary.
Shoppers can order (and try on) between three and eight items of clothing, shoes or accessories before they actually have to buy any merchandise — with no upfront charge or added styling fee. Shoppers can keep the items for seven days. They return unwanted pieces and only pay for the items they keep.. . . more
Amazon’s Prime Wardrobe service is now available to all Prime members — and no invitation is necessary.
Shoppers can order (and try on) between three and eight items of clothing, shoes or accessories before they actually have to buy any merchandise — with no upfront charge or added styling fee. Shoppers can keep the items for seven days. They return unwanted pieces and only pay for the items they keep.. . . more
Wednesday, June 20, 2018
Lidl not very disruptive so far
Chain Store Age
German discount grocery giant Lidl is not shaking things up to the extent that many had feared.
That’s according to a report by shopper intelligence firm Catalina, which found that the opening of U.S. stores by Lidl was less disruptive to competing supermarkets than some grocers had originally feared. Catalina found that nearby incumbent supermarkets lost close to 7% of overall sales during the first month of a Lidl store opening, but the impact on those same stores declined rapidly, falling to less than 2% of store sales by the fourth month. . . . more
German discount grocery giant Lidl is not shaking things up to the extent that many had feared.
That’s according to a report by shopper intelligence firm Catalina, which found that the opening of U.S. stores by Lidl was less disruptive to competing supermarkets than some grocers had originally feared. Catalina found that nearby incumbent supermarkets lost close to 7% of overall sales during the first month of a Lidl store opening, but the impact on those same stores declined rapidly, falling to less than 2% of store sales by the fourth month. . . . more
Sears Is Closing More Stores -- and This Mall Operator Is Happy About It
The Motley Fool
At the end of 2018's first quarter, once-thriving retailer Sears was operating 381 fewer stores than it was a year ago. And the company's footprint is continuing to shrink. Sears announced more closures recently, and it looks like a total of 275 Sears and Kmart stores could close during 2018.
As a result, many malls across the U.S. are about to be left with massive amounts of vacant square footage, and as a result, many mall operators are getting hammered.. . . more
At the end of 2018's first quarter, once-thriving retailer Sears was operating 381 fewer stores than it was a year ago. And the company's footprint is continuing to shrink. Sears announced more closures recently, and it looks like a total of 275 Sears and Kmart stores could close during 2018.
As a result, many malls across the U.S. are about to be left with massive amounts of vacant square footage, and as a result, many mall operators are getting hammered.. . . more
Shake Shack founder sees cashless future for his business
CNBC
Shake Shack founder Danny Meyer is defending his restaurant group's push into cashless transactions, saying in a blog post, "we're unaware of any federal law that requires private businesses to accept [cash]."
"We know that some have raised concerns about the socioeconomic implications of operating a cashless business," Meyer said in the post. "By not accepting cash, a restaurant may be excluding prospective guests who do not have a bank account. And we might be inconveniencing guests who simply don't have their credit/debit on them at the time. That's certainly not our aim." . . . more
Shake Shack founder Danny Meyer is defending his restaurant group's push into cashless transactions, saying in a blog post, "we're unaware of any federal law that requires private businesses to accept [cash]."
"We know that some have raised concerns about the socioeconomic implications of operating a cashless business," Meyer said in the post. "By not accepting cash, a restaurant may be excluding prospective guests who do not have a bank account. And we might be inconveniencing guests who simply don't have their credit/debit on them at the time. That's certainly not our aim." . . . more
Can't choose between Sears and Kmart? Now you can get two-in-one
USA Today
The Sears department store chain, which has been shrinking, is experimenting with doubling up with its corporate sibling, sister chain Kmart.
A Sears store in New York City now sports a Kmart section.
The retailer opened a Kmart convenience store inside a Sears store in Brooklyn over the weekend in a move to woo shoppers not only looking to make bigger purchases, but those loading up on smaller items like paper towels or detergent. . . . more
The Sears department store chain, which has been shrinking, is experimenting with doubling up with its corporate sibling, sister chain Kmart.
A Sears store in New York City now sports a Kmart section.
The retailer opened a Kmart convenience store inside a Sears store in Brooklyn over the weekend in a move to woo shoppers not only looking to make bigger purchases, but those loading up on smaller items like paper towels or detergent. . . . more
Amazon rolls out last-stop solution for package deliveries
Chain Store Age
Amazon wants to help apartment dwellers across the United States secure their package deliveries—even if the package isn’t from Amazon.
The company is rolling out Hub by Amazon, a delivery locker designed to be placed in the common area of apartment buildings and other housing complexes. The customizable unit can feature between 42 and 55 lockers. There are indoor and outdoor models, which stand 6 ft. high and 7 ft. high, respectively.. . . more
Amazon wants to help apartment dwellers across the United States secure their package deliveries—even if the package isn’t from Amazon.
The company is rolling out Hub by Amazon, a delivery locker designed to be placed in the common area of apartment buildings and other housing complexes. The customizable unit can feature between 42 and 55 lockers. There are indoor and outdoor models, which stand 6 ft. high and 7 ft. high, respectively.. . . more
Two of Ascena’s fashion-outlet brands going online
Chain Store Age
Apparel giant Ascena Retail Group is expanding its premium outlet fashion business to the online world.
Loft Outlet launched its e-commerce site on June 19, while Ann Taylor will enter digital retail on June 26. The online sites will offer the same products that are sold in the brands’ brick-and-mortar stores stores, along with special launch offers.. . . more
Apparel giant Ascena Retail Group is expanding its premium outlet fashion business to the online world.
Loft Outlet launched its e-commerce site on June 19, while Ann Taylor will enter digital retail on June 26. The online sites will offer the same products that are sold in the brands’ brick-and-mortar stores stores, along with special launch offers.. . . more
Tuesday, June 19, 2018
Starbucks says it will close 150 stores next year
money.cnn.com
Starbucks will close 150 poorly performing company-operated stores next year, about three times as many as it typically closes.
The company told investors late Tuesday that it expects same-store sales to grow just 1% for the quarter that begins next month, lowering its previous guidance. The stock slumped 3.5% in after-hours trading.. . . more
Starbucks will close 150 poorly performing company-operated stores next year, about three times as many as it typically closes.
The company told investors late Tuesday that it expects same-store sales to grow just 1% for the quarter that begins next month, lowering its previous guidance. The stock slumped 3.5% in after-hours trading.. . . more
How long can the off-price retail party go on?
Retail Dive
Thanks in part to solid fundamentals like a robust merchandise pipeline, a healthy consumer base and plenty of runway for brick-and-mortar expansion, the off-price segment is on pace to reach $18 billion to $19 billion of incremental sales by 2021, according to a September note on the sector from JPMorgan analysts. Around the same time, Moody's Investors Service released a note saying much the same thing, crediting the retailers' significant scale, flexible purchasing, strong and expanding vendor relations and adaptable real estate strategies, for their endurance.
But does a century-old retail concept, in the age of instantaneous price-checking, the rise of e-commerce and a glut of apparel sellers, really have staying power?. . . more
Thanks in part to solid fundamentals like a robust merchandise pipeline, a healthy consumer base and plenty of runway for brick-and-mortar expansion, the off-price segment is on pace to reach $18 billion to $19 billion of incremental sales by 2021, according to a September note on the sector from JPMorgan analysts. Around the same time, Moody's Investors Service released a note saying much the same thing, crediting the retailers' significant scale, flexible purchasing, strong and expanding vendor relations and adaptable real estate strategies, for their endurance.
But does a century-old retail concept, in the age of instantaneous price-checking, the rise of e-commerce and a glut of apparel sellers, really have staying power?. . . more
Florida Officials Approve Plan to Build Largest U.S. Mall
The Wall Street Journal
At a time when store closures are accelerating and struggling malls pockmark the country, county commissioners in Florida have approved a plan to build what would be the largest mall in the U.S.
American Dream Miami would also be the most expensive mall ever built, according to Canadian developer Triple Five Worldwide Group of Cos. The 6.2-million-square-foot retail and entertainment complex would cost an estimated $4 billion, Triple Five says. . . . more
At a time when store closures are accelerating and struggling malls pockmark the country, county commissioners in Florida have approved a plan to build what would be the largest mall in the U.S.
American Dream Miami would also be the most expensive mall ever built, according to Canadian developer Triple Five Worldwide Group of Cos. The 6.2-million-square-foot retail and entertainment complex would cost an estimated $4 billion, Triple Five says. . . . more
Sears, Kmart stores ailing as CEO Eddie Lampert's hedge fund gets hundreds of millions
USA Today
When he became CEO of Sears Holdings, Eddie Lampert declared he was on a mission to restore the iconic retailer to its former glory. Since then he's extended billions of dollars in loans from his hedge fund to Sears and Kmart.
But the difference between what Sears has invested in its stores — and therefore what customers experience when they shop — is stark compared with many of its peers, a USA TODAY review of public filings and analyst research shows. And if the chain ever sinks into bankruptcy, the records show Lampert's hedge fund will be positioned at the front of the line when loans are repaid. . . . more
When he became CEO of Sears Holdings, Eddie Lampert declared he was on a mission to restore the iconic retailer to its former glory. Since then he's extended billions of dollars in loans from his hedge fund to Sears and Kmart.
But the difference between what Sears has invested in its stores — and therefore what customers experience when they shop — is stark compared with many of its peers, a USA TODAY review of public filings and analyst research shows. And if the chain ever sinks into bankruptcy, the records show Lampert's hedge fund will be positioned at the front of the line when loans are repaid. . . . more
Toys ‘R’ Us says more than 115 companies interested in brand
New York Post
As Toys ‘R’ Us fades to black, scores of businesses are scrambling to keep it alive.
The bankrupt retailer says that interest in its intellectual property, which includes its Babies ‘R’ Us, Toys ‘R’ Us and Geoffrey trademarks, is so high that it needs more time to discuss the matter with potential bidders, according to court documents.. . . more
As Toys ‘R’ Us fades to black, scores of businesses are scrambling to keep it alive.
The bankrupt retailer says that interest in its intellectual property, which includes its Babies ‘R’ Us, Toys ‘R’ Us and Geoffrey trademarks, is so high that it needs more time to discuss the matter with potential bidders, according to court documents.. . . more
Roslindale chef says liquor license plan forced him to close restaurant
Boston Herald
Mayor Martin J. Walsh is backing a proposal — which must be approved by the Legislature — that would create 152 new liquor licenses in Boston over the next three years. State law currently limits Boston to 745 liquor licenses.
The proposed new licenses would be nontransferable, meaning a restaurant would have to return its license to the city instead of selling it on the open market if it goes out of business. But the new licenses will also cost far less than the six-figure prices existing licenses go for on the open market, which opponents fear will lead to devaluation of current licenses.. . . more
Mayor Martin J. Walsh is backing a proposal — which must be approved by the Legislature — that would create 152 new liquor licenses in Boston over the next three years. State law currently limits Boston to 745 liquor licenses.
The proposed new licenses would be nontransferable, meaning a restaurant would have to return its license to the city instead of selling it on the open market if it goes out of business. But the new licenses will also cost far less than the six-figure prices existing licenses go for on the open market, which opponents fear will lead to devaluation of current licenses.. . . more
GameStop in talks with buyout firms after drawing interest
Reuters
Video game and electronics retailer GameStop Corp is holding talks with private equity firms about a potential transaction after receiving buyout interest, people familiar with the matter said on Monday.
Like most brick-and-mortar retailers, GameStop has suffered from heightened competition from online companies including Amazon Inc. Games retailers have also had to cope with a decline in physical video game sales, although GameStop has partly weathered these declines by expanding into used video games and devices as well as digital products.. . . more
Video game and electronics retailer GameStop Corp is holding talks with private equity firms about a potential transaction after receiving buyout interest, people familiar with the matter said on Monday.
Like most brick-and-mortar retailers, GameStop has suffered from heightened competition from online companies including Amazon Inc. Games retailers have also had to cope with a decline in physical video game sales, although GameStop has partly weathered these declines by expanding into used video games and devices as well as digital products.. . . more
CVS Health will now deliver prescriptions to your home
Boston Herald
CVS Health will make prescription deliveries nationwide to accommodate the heightened expectations of convenience from consumers.
The nation's second-largest drugstore chain says it also will make home deliveries of other items, like allergy medicines, vitamins or household products. The service will cost $4.99 for deliveries made in one or two days.. . . more
CVS Health will make prescription deliveries nationwide to accommodate the heightened expectations of convenience from consumers.
The nation's second-largest drugstore chain says it also will make home deliveries of other items, like allergy medicines, vitamins or household products. The service will cost $4.99 for deliveries made in one or two days.. . . more
Monday, June 18, 2018
PetSmart Lenders Square Off as Third Group Forms in Asset Battle
NREI
Lender groups across PetSmart Inc.’s capital structure have squared off in groups and enlisted the help of restructuring advisers in an effort to protect their collateral after the company “ pulled a J. Crew.”
Certain unsecured bondholders this week became the latest to organize, bringing in law firm Milbank, Tweed, Hadley & McCloy to assist in future discussions with the pet superstore, according to people familiar with the matter.. . . more
Lender groups across PetSmart Inc.’s capital structure have squared off in groups and enlisted the help of restructuring advisers in an effort to protect their collateral after the company “ pulled a J. Crew.”
Certain unsecured bondholders this week became the latest to organize, bringing in law firm Milbank, Tweed, Hadley & McCloy to assist in future discussions with the pet superstore, according to people familiar with the matter.. . . more
Fast-casual concept look to Northeast expansion
Chain Store Age
An eatery that began as a walk-up counter in Midtown Manhattan in 2011 is looking to expand with a new prototype.
Melt Shop has opened a new location at The Westchester, a Simon Mall in downtown White Plains, New York. The sleek, modern format will serve as the prototype the company plans to use for all its mall locations moving forward.. . . more
An eatery that began as a walk-up counter in Midtown Manhattan in 2011 is looking to expand with a new prototype.
Melt Shop has opened a new location at The Westchester, a Simon Mall in downtown White Plains, New York. The sleek, modern format will serve as the prototype the company plans to use for all its mall locations moving forward.. . . more
H&R Block Is Closing 400 Locations
Fortune
H&R Block, the tax preparation firm with nearly 10,000 locations nationwide, announced on Tuesday that it would close 400 locations amid a disappointing financial outlook for the rest of 2018.
On a call with analysts yesterday, CEO Jeff Jones said the locations slated for closing are mostly smaller storefronts within five miles of another location. No job cuts are planned, and associates are expected to transfer to nearby locations. . . . more
H&R Block, the tax preparation firm with nearly 10,000 locations nationwide, announced on Tuesday that it would close 400 locations amid a disappointing financial outlook for the rest of 2018.
On a call with analysts yesterday, CEO Jeff Jones said the locations slated for closing are mostly smaller storefronts within five miles of another location. No job cuts are planned, and associates are expected to transfer to nearby locations. . . . more
Amazon’s online furniture category sales soar
Chain Store Age
In addition to holding the largest market share in the online furniture category, Amazon has more than tripled its annual furniture sales since 2015, according to “Furniture: The Amazon Effect,” a report from One Click Retail.
According to data, Amazon’s furniture sales were an estimated $4 billion in 2017, representing more than 51% growth year-over-year. The company is grabbing sales through a methodical approach, one that includes a curated site, Amazon Home, which enables customers to shop by room, look, home decor, specific items, or category, such as kitchen & dining, bed & bath, garden & outdoor.. . . more
In addition to holding the largest market share in the online furniture category, Amazon has more than tripled its annual furniture sales since 2015, according to “Furniture: The Amazon Effect,” a report from One Click Retail.
According to data, Amazon’s furniture sales were an estimated $4 billion in 2017, representing more than 51% growth year-over-year. The company is grabbing sales through a methodical approach, one that includes a curated site, Amazon Home, which enables customers to shop by room, look, home decor, specific items, or category, such as kitchen & dining, bed & bath, garden & outdoor.. . . more
Subway hires Bain to help with sales slump
New York Post
Subway, the struggling family-owned sandwich chain, has hired consultant Bain & Company to professionalize operations and possibly set itself up for a future sale, The Post has learned.
The 52-year-old chain, the largest in the US by the number of locations, had previously resisted bringing in outside professionals for anything other than advertising, according to two Subway insiders.. . . more
Subway, the struggling family-owned sandwich chain, has hired consultant Bain & Company to professionalize operations and possibly set itself up for a future sale, The Post has learned.
The 52-year-old chain, the largest in the US by the number of locations, had previously resisted bringing in outside professionals for anything other than advertising, according to two Subway insiders.. . . more
BJ's Wholesale sees IPO at $15-$17/share
Reuters
BJ’s Wholesale Club Holdings Inc expects its initial public offering to be priced between $15 and $17 per share, giving the warehouse club operator a market capitalization of up to $2.15 billion.
The company, which was taken private in 2011 for $2.8 billion, filed with regulators to go public for the second time last month.
It owns 215 warehouse clubs, mainly on the U.S. east coast, and competes with Costco Wholesale Corp and Walmart Inc’s Sam’s Club.. . . more
BJ’s Wholesale Club Holdings Inc expects its initial public offering to be priced between $15 and $17 per share, giving the warehouse club operator a market capitalization of up to $2.15 billion.
The company, which was taken private in 2011 for $2.8 billion, filed with regulators to go public for the second time last month.
It owns 215 warehouse clubs, mainly on the U.S. east coast, and competes with Costco Wholesale Corp and Walmart Inc’s Sam’s Club.. . . more
Rent-A-Center is sold
The Dallas Morning News
Rent-A-Center said Monday that its board has accepted a $15-a-share offer from Florida-based Vintage Capital. The deal is valued at $1.365 billion, including debt.
Rent-A-Center said Monday that its board has accepted a $15-a-share offer from Florida-based Vintage Capital. The deal is valued at $1.365 billion, including debt.
The Florida-based private equity firm has invested in the rent-to-own business for some time. It's the controlling shareholder of Buddy's Home Furnishings, a fast-growing Florida-based competitor of Rent-A-Center. Buddy's is the third largest rent-to-own chain with 330 stores, mostly in the South, according to Vintage's website. . . . more
Friday, June 15, 2018
Retailers Fume Over Tax Law Typo That Makes Renovations Pricier
NREI
Retailers and restaurants were supposed to be the big winners under the Republican tax law, but a last-minute drafting error that doubles the tax costs for badly-needed store renovations could eat into those gains.
Now the industry, led by Target Corp., Best Buy Co. and KFC-owner Yum! Brands Inc., is becoming more aggressive in pushing for a solution. In letters and visits to Washington last week, representatives urged congressional leaders of both parties to correct what’s been dubbed the “retail glitch.” While GOP leaders acknowledge the mistake, they haven’t guaranteed a quick fix. . . . more
Retailers and restaurants were supposed to be the big winners under the Republican tax law, but a last-minute drafting error that doubles the tax costs for badly-needed store renovations could eat into those gains.
Now the industry, led by Target Corp., Best Buy Co. and KFC-owner Yum! Brands Inc., is becoming more aggressive in pushing for a solution. In letters and visits to Washington last week, representatives urged congressional leaders of both parties to correct what’s been dubbed the “retail glitch.” While GOP leaders acknowledge the mistake, they haven’t guaranteed a quick fix. . . . more
Sam’s Club to open small concept focused on tech, fresh and grab-and-go foods
Retail Wire
Sam’s Club announced plans to open a new smaller store concept that’s big on tech, fresh foods and grab-and-go meals.
The new store, which measures 32,000-square-feet compared to the typical 100,000 to 150,000-square-foot club, emphasizes the use of tech with digital signage throughout the store and cashier-less checkouts using Scan & Go.. . . more
Sam’s Club announced plans to open a new smaller store concept that’s big on tech, fresh foods and grab-and-go meals.
The new store, which measures 32,000-square-feet compared to the typical 100,000 to 150,000-square-foot club, emphasizes the use of tech with digital signage throughout the store and cashier-less checkouts using Scan & Go.. . . more
Drugstore Chains Adapt New Real Estate Strategies to Compete with Online Sellers
NREI
The country’s two major drugstore chains, CVS Pharmacy and Walgreens, are not immune to the impact of Amazon, which is eager to get a slice of the lucrative pharmaceutical pie, and other online retailers.
“Drugstores are not internet-resistant retailers, and as such, they need to closely evaluate their products and service offerings in an effort to stay relevant with their customers,” says Lanie Beck, director of research at Stan Johnson Co., which specializes in net lease investments. “If they can’t find a way to draw consumers into their stores, they risk losing market share to companies like Amazon, Walmart and online prescription retailers.”. . . more
The country’s two major drugstore chains, CVS Pharmacy and Walgreens, are not immune to the impact of Amazon, which is eager to get a slice of the lucrative pharmaceutical pie, and other online retailers.
“Drugstores are not internet-resistant retailers, and as such, they need to closely evaluate their products and service offerings in an effort to stay relevant with their customers,” says Lanie Beck, director of research at Stan Johnson Co., which specializes in net lease investments. “If they can’t find a way to draw consumers into their stores, they risk losing market share to companies like Amazon, Walmart and online prescription retailers.”. . . more
Cirque du Soleil heading to the mall
Chain Store Age
An entertainment giant is looking to expand its brand with a new concept specifically designed for retail locations.
Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group will open its first “family entertainment centre” in September 2019, in Toronto, in partnership with real estate firm Ivanhoé Cambridge. Cirque du Soleil said it is in discussions with the Montreal-based developer for additional locations in Canada. It is also in talks with other partners to open outside of Canada.
The new concept, called Creactive, will offer a range of acrobatic, artistic and other Cirque du Soleil-inspired recreational activities, such as bungee jumping, wire and trampolines, mask design, juggling, circus track activities, dance and more. The space will average 24,000 sq. ft. . . . more
An entertainment giant is looking to expand its brand with a new concept specifically designed for retail locations.
Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group will open its first “family entertainment centre” in September 2019, in Toronto, in partnership with real estate firm Ivanhoé Cambridge. Cirque du Soleil said it is in discussions with the Montreal-based developer for additional locations in Canada. It is also in talks with other partners to open outside of Canada.
The new concept, called Creactive, will offer a range of acrobatic, artistic and other Cirque du Soleil-inspired recreational activities, such as bungee jumping, wire and trampolines, mask design, juggling, circus track activities, dance and more. The space will average 24,000 sq. ft. . . . more
Bidding continues for Toys ‘R’ Us locations
Chain Store Age
Bankrupt Toys “R” Us is slowly liquidating its huge real estate portfolio.
Following an auction earlier this year, another round of the retailer’s 800-plus stores has been bid on, and the buyers include Aldi, Big Lots, Ollie’s Bargain Outlet and Ashley Furniture, reported CNBC. The report cited court documents filed Wednesday in Virginia. . . . more
Bankrupt Toys “R” Us is slowly liquidating its huge real estate portfolio.
Following an auction earlier this year, another round of the retailer’s 800-plus stores has been bid on, and the buyers include Aldi, Big Lots, Ollie’s Bargain Outlet and Ashley Furniture, reported CNBC. The report cited court documents filed Wednesday in Virginia. . . . more
Kroger to exit one of its markets
Chain Store Age
Kroger Co. is saying farewell to Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina.
The supermarket giant confirmed that it will exit the Raleigh-Durham market on or about Aug. 14, by closing and selling its 14 locations. Kroger has had stores in the market since 1989.. . . more
Kroger Co. is saying farewell to Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina.
The supermarket giant confirmed that it will exit the Raleigh-Durham market on or about Aug. 14, by closing and selling its 14 locations. Kroger has had stores in the market since 1989.. . . more
Canadian retailer Roots' first Boston store is a sensory shopping experience
Boston Business Journal
Canadian sportswear brand Roots is opening the first of three new stores in Greater Boston on Newbury Street Friday, and plans to open additional locations in Natick and Lynnfield by the end of the month.
The company, which sells apparel, footwear, leather goods and accessories, is introducing Boston to its brand with a sensory shopping experience. Customers can walk through a tunnel made of the fabrics used in Roots sweatpants, personalize a leather item in the "leather customization workshop," and follow a timeline of the company’s history through different rooms. . . . more
Canadian sportswear brand Roots is opening the first of three new stores in Greater Boston on Newbury Street Friday, and plans to open additional locations in Natick and Lynnfield by the end of the month.
The company, which sells apparel, footwear, leather goods and accessories, is introducing Boston to its brand with a sensory shopping experience. Customers can walk through a tunnel made of the fabrics used in Roots sweatpants, personalize a leather item in the "leather customization workshop," and follow a timeline of the company’s history through different rooms. . . . more
Thursday, June 14, 2018
Madison Marquette-PMRG merger confirmed
Chain Store Age
The $7 billion merger between Madison Marquette and PMRG is a go, both companies have confirmed.
The two real estate companies — both with major stakes in mixed-use and retail — will be headquartered in Washington, D.C., and maintain a major presence in Houston. Madison Marquette and PMRG have long shared common clients among the top institutional owners and investors. PMRG’s strong foothold in the South, meanwhile, is complementary to Madison’s presence in primary markets on both coasts.. . . more
The $7 billion merger between Madison Marquette and PMRG is a go, both companies have confirmed.
The two real estate companies — both with major stakes in mixed-use and retail — will be headquartered in Washington, D.C., and maintain a major presence in Houston. Madison Marquette and PMRG have long shared common clients among the top institutional owners and investors. PMRG’s strong foothold in the South, meanwhile, is complementary to Madison’s presence in primary markets on both coasts.. . . more
Michaels Q1 earnings top Street; outlook disappoints
Chain Store Age
The Michaels Companies Inc. beat first-quarter profit expectations, but missed on same-store sales and provided a downbeat second-quarter outlook.
Revenue inched down to $1.156 billion from $1.159 billion, beating estimates of $1.151 billion. Same-store sales edged up 0.4%, less than expected, with an increase in the average amount of a transaction partially offset by a decrease in customer transactions.. . . more
The Michaels Companies Inc. beat first-quarter profit expectations, but missed on same-store sales and provided a downbeat second-quarter outlook.
Revenue inched down to $1.156 billion from $1.159 billion, beating estimates of $1.151 billion. Same-store sales edged up 0.4%, less than expected, with an increase in the average amount of a transaction partially offset by a decrease in customer transactions.. . . more
U.S. retail sales jump 0.8% in May, point to strong second-quarter GDP
MarketWatch
Sales at retail stores surged in May, but the increase was a double-edged sword. Americans are spending more because of a strong economy, but rising inflation also means they have to pay more for gas and other staples.
Retail sales nationwide jumped by 0.8% last month, twice as high as the MarketWatch forecast. Sales growth in April and March were also revised up sharply, partly reflecting changes in how the government calculates the numbers.. . . more
Sales at retail stores surged in May, but the increase was a double-edged sword. Americans are spending more because of a strong economy, but rising inflation also means they have to pay more for gas and other staples.
Retail sales nationwide jumped by 0.8% last month, twice as high as the MarketWatch forecast. Sales growth in April and March were also revised up sharply, partly reflecting changes in how the government calculates the numbers.. . . more
Microsoft takes aim at Amazon with push for checkout-free retail
Reuters
Microsoft Corp is working on technology that would eliminate cashiers and checkout lines from stores, in a nascent challenge to Amazon.com Inc’s automated grocery shop, six people familiar with the matter told Reuters.
The Redmond, Wash.-based software giant is developing systems that track what shoppers add to their carts, the people say. Microsoft has shown sample technology to retailers from around the world and has had talks with Walmart Inc about a potential collaboration, three of the people said.. . . more
Microsoft Corp is working on technology that would eliminate cashiers and checkout lines from stores, in a nascent challenge to Amazon.com Inc’s automated grocery shop, six people familiar with the matter told Reuters.
The Redmond, Wash.-based software giant is developing systems that track what shoppers add to their carts, the people say. Microsoft has shown sample technology to retailers from around the world and has had talks with Walmart Inc about a potential collaboration, three of the people said.. . . more
Gap's namesake brand picks a new CEO as it tries for a comeback
LA Times
Gap Inc. has named Neil Fiske as president and chief executive of its namesake brand as the clothing retailer looks for a comeback amid declining mall traffic, operational missteps and disappointing growth.
The search for a new top executive for the brand began in February, when the San Francisco company announced Jeff Kirwan would leave the post after just over three years. The Gap brand has been the company’s most troubled division, with a slew of management changes and shifts in strategy. The parent company has been working to fix issues at the brand, which have included late deliveries that resulted in excess inventory that it had to discount in order to sell.. . . more
Gap Inc. has named Neil Fiske as president and chief executive of its namesake brand as the clothing retailer looks for a comeback amid declining mall traffic, operational missteps and disappointing growth.
The search for a new top executive for the brand began in February, when the San Francisco company announced Jeff Kirwan would leave the post after just over three years. The Gap brand has been the company’s most troubled division, with a slew of management changes and shifts in strategy. The parent company has been working to fix issues at the brand, which have included late deliveries that resulted in excess inventory that it had to discount in order to sell.. . . more
Joann unveils new store prototype
Chain Store Age
The format, unveiled on June 13 in Columbus, Ohio, offers a reimagined shopping experience. All of the store’s features and classes were developed based on the latest trends. For example, Pinterest, which partners with the retailer, has seen a surge in searches for DIY personalized T-shirts. The trend is reflected in an area where customers can learn to make custom shirts using electric-cutting machines and a wide array of materials and accessories. . . . more
Fabric and craft retailer Joann opened a new prototype that combines technology, dedicated community and learning spaces and new custom services.
The format, unveiled on June 13 in Columbus, Ohio, offers a reimagined shopping experience. All of the store’s features and classes were developed based on the latest trends. For example, Pinterest, which partners with the retailer, has seen a surge in searches for DIY personalized T-shirts. The trend is reflected in an area where customers can learn to make custom shirts using electric-cutting machines and a wide array of materials and accessories. . . . more
'I ultimately am not afraid to get fired': Leaked audio captures Whole Foods CEO John Mackey describing clashes with Amazon
Business Insider
Whole Foods CEO John Mackey said Tuesday that the company's same-store sales were growing again under Amazon, which purchased the grocery chain 10 months ago in a $13.7 billion deal.
"It's been an incredible year," Mackey said Tuesday during a town-hall-style companywide meeting, according to audio of the meeting obtained by Business Insider. "Our increase in sales has been far greater than I anticipated, and it's continuing."
But the relationship with Amazon has also come with many challenges, he said.. . . more
Whole Foods CEO John Mackey said Tuesday that the company's same-store sales were growing again under Amazon, which purchased the grocery chain 10 months ago in a $13.7 billion deal.
"It's been an incredible year," Mackey said Tuesday during a town-hall-style companywide meeting, according to audio of the meeting obtained by Business Insider. "Our increase in sales has been far greater than I anticipated, and it's continuing."
But the relationship with Amazon has also come with many challenges, he said.. . . more
Wednesday, June 13, 2018
An Investment Management Firm Wants to Combine Stores and Fulfillment Centers
NREI
Shlomo Chopp, managing partner with New York City-based investment management firm Case Equity Partners LLC, thinks he’s come up with an innovation that could help bring retail REITs out of their market slump while also giving industrial REITs a bit of competition. His patent-pending idea ultimately would be a physical marriage of e-commerce and brick-and-mortar retail.
Chopp envisions retail REITs partnering with his company to adopt a “shopping fulfillment center” concept. As its name suggests, this invention would merge shopping and fulfillment in one location.. . . more
Shlomo Chopp, managing partner with New York City-based investment management firm Case Equity Partners LLC, thinks he’s come up with an innovation that could help bring retail REITs out of their market slump while also giving industrial REITs a bit of competition. His patent-pending idea ultimately would be a physical marriage of e-commerce and brick-and-mortar retail.
Chopp envisions retail REITs partnering with his company to adopt a “shopping fulfillment center” concept. As its name suggests, this invention would merge shopping and fulfillment in one location.. . . more
RH continues to expand with showcase destinations; developing smaller model
Chain Store Age
RH will open four new stores (“Galleries”) this year, with locations in Portland, Oregon (opened in March); Nashville, Tennessee; Yountville, California; and New York City. The latter three will include a dining experience.
The New York City site, in Manhattan’s Meatpacking District, will feature 90,000 sq. ft. of indoor and outdoor space, with a transparent elevator that goes up to a glass-encased rooftop restaurant with retractable doors that open out to a landscaped park. (Also in Manhattan, in summer 2019, RH will open its first-ever hotel, called RH Guesthouse.) . . . more
RH will open four new stores (“Galleries”) this year, with locations in Portland, Oregon (opened in March); Nashville, Tennessee; Yountville, California; and New York City. The latter three will include a dining experience.
The New York City site, in Manhattan’s Meatpacking District, will feature 90,000 sq. ft. of indoor and outdoor space, with a transparent elevator that goes up to a glass-encased rooftop restaurant with retractable doors that open out to a landscaped park. (Also in Manhattan, in summer 2019, RH will open its first-ever hotel, called RH Guesthouse.) . . . more
Macy’s takes stake in tech retailer
Chain Store Age
Macy’s has taken a minority stake in a company that helps emerging brands build out brick-and-mortar stores with minimal effort.
The department store giant announced it is partnering with b8ta, and will leverage the tech retailer’s software platform to expand The Market @ Macy’s, pop-up shop marketplace concept currently in place in 10 Macy’s stores. As part of the deal, Macy’s has also acquired a minority equity stake in b8ta.. . . more
Macy’s has taken a minority stake in a company that helps emerging brands build out brick-and-mortar stores with minimal effort.
The department store giant announced it is partnering with b8ta, and will leverage the tech retailer’s software platform to expand The Market @ Macy’s, pop-up shop marketplace concept currently in place in 10 Macy’s stores. As part of the deal, Macy’s has also acquired a minority equity stake in b8ta.. . . more
Zara Boosts Profit Margin, Bucking an Industry Trend
The Wall Street Journal
Zara’s parent company said same-store sales growth slowed in the latest quarter, though profit margins improved, as the world’s largest fashion retailer attempts to navigate an industrywide shakeout driven by competition from online retail.
Inditex SA said on Wednesday that sales in stores that have been open for at least one year rose in all its markets in its fiscal first quarter. Analysts estimated that what are known as like-for-like sale rose around 5% in the three months ending April 30 compared with a year earlier. That is a slight slowdown from the company’s previous fiscal quarter, when like-for-like sales rose around 6% year-over-year.. . . more
Zara’s parent company said same-store sales growth slowed in the latest quarter, though profit margins improved, as the world’s largest fashion retailer attempts to navigate an industrywide shakeout driven by competition from online retail.
Inditex SA said on Wednesday that sales in stores that have been open for at least one year rose in all its markets in its fiscal first quarter. Analysts estimated that what are known as like-for-like sale rose around 5% in the three months ending April 30 compared with a year earlier. That is a slight slowdown from the company’s previous fiscal quarter, when like-for-like sales rose around 6% year-over-year.. . . more
Chef'd is bringing its meal kits to Walgreens, Duane Reade
CNBC
Grocery stores are no longer the only place to pick up a meal kit on the go.
Chef'd said Wednesday it will sell its meal kits at 30 Walgreens and Duane Reade stores in the New York area as part of a partnership with Smithfield Foods. . . . more
Grocery stores are no longer the only place to pick up a meal kit on the go.
Chef'd said Wednesday it will sell its meal kits at 30 Walgreens and Duane Reade stores in the New York area as part of a partnership with Smithfield Foods. . . . more
Lands' End Exits More Sears Stores, Calming Investors
Bloomberg
Lands’ End Inc. investors may be warming back up to the retailer as it further breaks free from former parent Sears Holdings Corp. by shuttering more in-store shops in favor of smaller standalone locations.
The one-time Sears unit has been phasing out its sites situated inside the struggling chain, halving its number of in-Sears shops since the 2014 split. It’s planning to drop that number to about 100 by the end of the year from about 159 at the end of the first quarter.. . . more
Lands’ End Inc. investors may be warming back up to the retailer as it further breaks free from former parent Sears Holdings Corp. by shuttering more in-store shops in favor of smaller standalone locations.
The one-time Sears unit has been phasing out its sites situated inside the struggling chain, halving its number of in-Sears shops since the 2014 split. It’s planning to drop that number to about 100 by the end of the year from about 159 at the end of the first quarter.. . . more
Owners of fading malls 'on their knees' as buyer pool evaporates
Financial Post
Landlords have malls they’d like to unload. But who’d want to buy them?
As they battle the rise of e-commerce, U.S. mall owners are trying to clear their books of fading centres so they can focus on the most-profitable ones. That’s proving difficult, with just a shallow pool of investors who are willing to take on a declining mall and even fewer who would pay what the landlords want. Only about US$3 billion of retail real estate changed hands in April, a 27 per cent drop from a year earlier and the lowest monthly tally since February 2013, according to the latest data from Real Capital Analytics Inc.. . . more
Landlords have malls they’d like to unload. But who’d want to buy them?
As they battle the rise of e-commerce, U.S. mall owners are trying to clear their books of fading centres so they can focus on the most-profitable ones. That’s proving difficult, with just a shallow pool of investors who are willing to take on a declining mall and even fewer who would pay what the landlords want. Only about US$3 billion of retail real estate changed hands in April, a 27 per cent drop from a year earlier and the lowest monthly tally since February 2013, according to the latest data from Real Capital Analytics Inc.. . . more
Tuesday, June 12, 2018
Mainely Burgers to open Boston Landing location
Boston Business Journal
Mainely Burgers will open its second brick and mortar restaurant at Boston Landing, marking the Brighton development's most recent retail lease, and the first for its new luxury apartment building Lantera.
The burger joint will take up 2,134 square feet on the ground floor of Lantera, located at 125 Guest St. The restaurant is owned and operated by brothers Jack and Max Barber, who began selling burgers from a food truck in Maine seven years ago. . . . more
Mainely Burgers will open its second brick and mortar restaurant at Boston Landing, marking the Brighton development's most recent retail lease, and the first for its new luxury apartment building Lantera.
The burger joint will take up 2,134 square feet on the ground floor of Lantera, located at 125 Guest St. The restaurant is owned and operated by brothers Jack and Max Barber, who began selling burgers from a food truck in Maine seven years ago. . . . more
The retail categories excelling at personalization are…
Chain Store Age
Consumers — especially Millennials — increasingly favor personalized products and experiences.
The top five retail categories that excel at offering personalized offerings are apparel and footwear, food and beverages, technology products, vacation and travel experiences, and household goods, according to “Made to Order: An analysis of U.S. consumers perceptions towards personalization,” a report from YouGov.. . . more
Consumers — especially Millennials — increasingly favor personalized products and experiences.
The top five retail categories that excel at offering personalized offerings are apparel and footwear, food and beverages, technology products, vacation and travel experiences, and household goods, according to “Made to Order: An analysis of U.S. consumers perceptions towards personalization,” a report from YouGov.. . . more
Toys R Us stores enter final days with new liquidation markdowns
USA Today
Toys R Us stores are entering their final days and ramping up the deals.
The iconic toy retailer announced a new round of markdowns were taken Monday on its social media accounts. Discounts now range from 50% to 70% with "limited exceptions," according to the Facebook post.. . . more
Toys R Us stores are entering their final days and ramping up the deals.
The iconic toy retailer announced a new round of markdowns were taken Monday on its social media accounts. Discounts now range from 50% to 70% with "limited exceptions," according to the Facebook post.. . . more
Sears expands Auto Center partnership with Amazon to more stores
CNBC
Sears Holdings said Tuesday it's expanding its partnership with Amazon across the U.S.
The department store chain last month announced it would be working with the e-commerce giant to install car tires, from any brand including its own DieHard, ordered on Amazon.com. The retailer has been using its Auto Centers, where customers can opt to have their tires shipped there and then installed by Sears' employees for a small fee.
This was initially available at 47 Sears Auto Centers. On Tuesday, Sears said it has added an additional 71 shops to the program, bringing the total to 118. . . . more
Sears Holdings said Tuesday it's expanding its partnership with Amazon across the U.S.
The department store chain last month announced it would be working with the e-commerce giant to install car tires, from any brand including its own DieHard, ordered on Amazon.com. The retailer has been using its Auto Centers, where customers can opt to have their tires shipped there and then installed by Sears' employees for a small fee.
This was initially available at 47 Sears Auto Centers. On Tuesday, Sears said it has added an additional 71 shops to the program, bringing the total to 118. . . . more
Retail Center Owners Look to Hotels to Bring New Life to Vacant Big-Box Spaces
NREI
Owners and operators of hotels and retail centers are increasingly partnering up in an effort to help drive traffic to retail properties and create more pedestrian-friendly developments.
It’s a trend that has arisen amid continuing headwinds facing retail real estate, a sector that has long seen challenges from the growth of e-commerce and changing consumer behaviors. . . . more
Owners and operators of hotels and retail centers are increasingly partnering up in an effort to help drive traffic to retail properties and create more pedestrian-friendly developments.
It’s a trend that has arisen amid continuing headwinds facing retail real estate, a sector that has long seen challenges from the growth of e-commerce and changing consumer behaviors. . . . more
Restaurants Feeling The Squeeze On Traffic And Sales, Especially Midpriced Chains
bisnow.com
Chain restaurants, especially those that occupy the middle ground between fast food and upscale dining, face an uphill battle as consumer tastes change. Part of that battle, it turns out, involves building traffic any way they can.
Same-store traffic in the industry dipped 2.9% year over year in May, which also represented an annual 1.5% drop from April, Restaurant News reports. Traffic growth year-to-date is down 2.5%, which is a bit better than the 3.2% drop for the same period in each of the previous two years. . . . more
Chain restaurants, especially those that occupy the middle ground between fast food and upscale dining, face an uphill battle as consumer tastes change. Part of that battle, it turns out, involves building traffic any way they can.
Same-store traffic in the industry dipped 2.9% year over year in May, which also represented an annual 1.5% drop from April, Restaurant News reports. Traffic growth year-to-date is down 2.5%, which is a bit better than the 3.2% drop for the same period in each of the previous two years. . . . more
One Year After Amazon's Whole Foods Buy, The Online Grocery Battle Lines Are Being Drawn
bisnow.com
Amazon is betting it can transform the $641B U.S. grocery industry the same way it has so many others: by delivering products to consumers' doorsteps faster and more cheaply than its competitors.
Amazon is betting it can transform the $641B U.S. grocery industry the same way it has so many others: by delivering products to consumers' doorsteps faster and more cheaply than its competitors.
In the 12 months since the $13.7B deal became public, the e-commerce giant's market share has grown dramatically, and traditional grocers like Walmart and Kroger have raced to respond, hoping to take advantage of their larger retail footprints by incentivizing shoppers to pick up online purchases in store. . . . more
Monday, June 11, 2018
As 'dull retail is dying,' Dallas founders announce new department store Neighborhood Goods
Dallas News
As legacy retailers battle Amazon and suburban malls struggle to stay afloat, a Dallas startup is going the opposite direction: It's launching a new department store.
Neighborhood Goods plans to open this fall in Plano. It is co-founded by Matt Alexander, a Dallas entrepreneur with fashion and retail experience, and Mark Masinter, a real estate adviser to developers and well-known brands including Apple, J. Crew and Restoration Hardware. Alexander will serve as the company's chief executive.. . . more
As legacy retailers battle Amazon and suburban malls struggle to stay afloat, a Dallas startup is going the opposite direction: It's launching a new department store.
Neighborhood Goods plans to open this fall in Plano. It is co-founded by Matt Alexander, a Dallas entrepreneur with fashion and retail experience, and Mark Masinter, a real estate adviser to developers and well-known brands including Apple, J. Crew and Restoration Hardware. Alexander will serve as the company's chief executive.. . . more
Walmart’s ModCloth opening showroom stores
Chain Store Age
ModCloth, the indie and vintage online clothing retailer that Walmart acquired in March 2017, is upping its retail game. The company, which sells its own vintage-inspired line and a curated selection of styles from hundreds of indie designer, has opened a store in San Francisco, according to its website, which joins an existing location in Austin. And more are in the offing.
According to a report by Business Insider, additional ModCloth locations will open in New York, Los Angeles, and Washington, D.C. Customers can get style advice at a ModCloth store and try on styles, which they then can order online. The purchase will be shipped to their door free of charge.. . . more
ModCloth, the indie and vintage online clothing retailer that Walmart acquired in March 2017, is upping its retail game. The company, which sells its own vintage-inspired line and a curated selection of styles from hundreds of indie designer, has opened a store in San Francisco, according to its website, which joins an existing location in Austin. And more are in the offing.
According to a report by Business Insider, additional ModCloth locations will open in New York, Los Angeles, and Washington, D.C. Customers can get style advice at a ModCloth store and try on styles, which they then can order online. The purchase will be shipped to their door free of charge.. . . more
The ‘go-to’ online retailer is…
Chain Store Age
Of the nearly seven in 10 Americans (69%) that have purchased an item online, 92% said they have bought an item through Amazon, according to a new NPR/Marist Poll.
According to data, 44% of online shoppers said that Amazon is their first stop when making an online purchase. This outshines Google (33%), the apps or websites of a specific store (10%), a specific brand online (6%), or an online marketplace such as eBay or Etsy (5%). . . . more
Of the nearly seven in 10 Americans (69%) that have purchased an item online, 92% said they have bought an item through Amazon, according to a new NPR/Marist Poll.
According to data, 44% of online shoppers said that Amazon is their first stop when making an online purchase. This outshines Google (33%), the apps or websites of a specific store (10%), a specific brand online (6%), or an online marketplace such as eBay or Etsy (5%). . . . more
Rent-A-Center gets increased offer after ending strategic review
Reuters
Rent-A-Center Inc said on Monday it received an increased offer to acquire the company from one of the suitors that was involved in its sale process, hours after the rent-to-own furniture retailer said it ended its strategic review.
In a letter to the company, the party said it “does not constitute an offer capable of being accepted or a binding agreement of any kind,” Rent-A-Center said.
“The (offer) letter was not accompanied by equity commitment letters that would be necessary for the company to evaluate whether to enter into an agreement with an acquisition entity possessing no assets,” Rent-A-Center said. . . . more
Rent-A-Center Inc said on Monday it received an increased offer to acquire the company from one of the suitors that was involved in its sale process, hours after the rent-to-own furniture retailer said it ended its strategic review.
In a letter to the company, the party said it “does not constitute an offer capable of being accepted or a binding agreement of any kind,” Rent-A-Center said.
“The (offer) letter was not accompanied by equity commitment letters that would be necessary for the company to evaluate whether to enter into an agreement with an acquisition entity possessing no assets,” Rent-A-Center said. . . . more
A Year After Amazon Devoured Whole Foods, Rivals Are Pursuing Countermoves
The Wall Street Journal
Amazon.com Inc.’s year-old acquisition of Whole Foods is prompting the food industry to retool how it sells fresh food to consumers.
The e-commerce giant agreed to buy Whole Foods Market Inc. last June for roughly $13.5 billion and closed the deal in August. Since then, Amazon has rolled out additional deals and delivery to Prime members. Companies, investors and analysts expect more changes as Amazon uses data capabilities to track what shoppers buy at the grocery chain and market to them. . . . more
Amazon.com Inc.’s year-old acquisition of Whole Foods is prompting the food industry to retool how it sells fresh food to consumers.
The e-commerce giant agreed to buy Whole Foods Market Inc. last June for roughly $13.5 billion and closed the deal in August. Since then, Amazon has rolled out additional deals and delivery to Prime members. Companies, investors and analysts expect more changes as Amazon uses data capabilities to track what shoppers buy at the grocery chain and market to them. . . . more
Commercial Real Estate Pricing Growth Stagnant As Retail Prices Offset Industrial Gains
bisnow.com
Green Street Advisors released its Commercial Property Price Index on Friday, finding that commercial prices across the country rose 1% over the past 12 months, with three- and one-month splits at 0% and 1%, respectively. Within the flatness are two sectors pulling in opposite directions.
Green Street Advisors released its Commercial Property Price Index on Friday, finding that commercial prices across the country rose 1% over the past 12 months, with three- and one-month splits at 0% and 1%, respectively. Within the flatness are two sectors pulling in opposite directions.
In the past year, mall prices dropped 12% and strip retail dropped 3%, the only two sectors to see declines over that period. Industrial real estate, which includes distribution centers, rose 15% and is easily one of the hottest sectors in the market. The disparity between retail and industrial values reflects the changing way consumers spend their money.. . . more
How Many Stores Is Too Many For Starbucks?
bisnow.com
With nearly 14,300 U.S. locations — more than 2,000 of which have opened in the last three years — there are now more Starbucks locations in the country than McDonald's. The coffee company has also been expanding its Reserve Roasteries at a rapid clip.
Such growth might mean retail saturation for the chain, according to the Wall Street Journal, citing a number of industry analysts.
“The U.S. coffee market is becoming over-stored, and traffic is hard to come by," Quo Vadis Capital President John Zolidis told the Journal.. . . more
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