Kelly’s Roast Beef Closes 2022 on High Note

QSR
The Boston-based inventor of the North Shore roast beef sandwich, Kelly’s Roast Beef, is celebrating a strong end to 2022 and heading into 2023 with plans for continued national expansion as demand increases. . . . more

Revlon set to exit bankruptcy by April

Retail Dive
Saddled with debt, slow to adapt to new market realities and losing share, Revlon was ill-equipped to deal with the supply chain troubles that helped decimate its inventory. . . . more

Rite Aid loss widens in Q3; narrows outlook

CSA
A reduction in COVID vaccine and testing revenues took a toll on Rite Aid Corp.’s third quarter performance. . . . more

Barnes & Noble books more stores amid big-box expansion wave

The Real Deal
Barnes & Noble is planning to add a net of 30 stores to its portfolio next year. . . . more

Charleys Philly Steaks to Open 100th Store of 2022

CSA
Charleys Philly Steaks announced that it will reach a major milestone when it opens its 100th new location in 2022 on Dec. 21. . . . more

Taco John’s To Make Boston Bigger.Bolder.Better

Franchising.com
Taco John’s is making its way to the northeast and preparing to bring its signature tacos, burritos and crispy Potato Olés to Beantown! . . . more

FunCity Adventure Park to Become Newest Anchor at Union Lake Crossing Shopping Center in Millville

New Jersey Stage
Irgang Group announced on December 15th that it has signed FunCity Adventure Park to a lease for a 36,500-square-foot anchor position at Union Lake Crossing, a 393,000-square-foot power center serving the greater Millville-Vineland market in southern New Jersey. . . . more

DSW parent company acquires athletic footwear brand Topo

CSA
The parent company of DSW continues to expand its growing portfolio of owned brands. . . . more

How Ulta is approaching its new store layout and the holidays

Retail Dive
Thanks to a variety of macroeconomic pressures, few large retailers have truly thrived over the past year. . . . more

KFC franchisee pilots text-based customer engagement

CSA
KFC franchisee KBP Brands is testing the effectiveness of targeted mobile messaging in driving store traffic and sales. . . . more

New York stores banned from selling cats, dogs, rabbits

CSA
New York has passed a law that puts limits on what pet stores can sell. . . . more

Joann reports third quarter loss, suspends dividend

Retail Dive
Joann on Monday reported $562.8 million in Q3 net sales, a 7.9% decline. The crafts retailer swung to a $17.5 million loss from $22.8 million in net income during the same quarter last year. . . . more

Ames Department Stores expected to make a return in 2023

WWLP.com
A well-known department store, that was headquartered in Connecticut, is making its return in 2023! . . . more

Sears Hometown files for bankruptcy; to liquidate inventory

CSA
Sears Hometown Stores Inc. has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection amid disputes with its parent company. . . . more

PREIT: Malls benefit when located near military centers — here’s why

CSA
Military installations can have a major impact on local businesses — including shopping malls. . . . more

Sweetgreen continues expansion into new markets

CSA
Sweetgreen has entered its fifth new market of the year. . . . more

Why Are Quick-Serve Restaurants Investing in Self-Ordering Kiosks?

QSR
Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, consumer behaviors and preferences have rapidly evolved. . . . more

Walmart CEO: Inflation on toys, clothing and sports equipment is easing

CNN Business
Finally, shoppers are getting some good news about prices: Inflation is falling on discretionary merchandise just in time for the holidays, Walmart chief Doug McMillon said Tuesday.  . . . more

Dollar General’s new Popshelf stores chase inflation-weary shoppers in the suburbs

CNBC Business
Dollar General’s next big strategy for growth is tucked in a strip mall in suburban Nashville, and it is coming to other cities soon. . . . more

Retail looks beyond its old love — the movies

Retail Dive
In 2019, toy retailers were blessed with the holiday release of hit movies like “Frozen II” and “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker,” as well as a robust list of releases earlier on in the year. . . . more

Tech-driven mini-golf/dining concept continues expansion; to open at Natick Mall

CSA
A destination that combines tech-infused mini-golf with food and drink in an upscale, high-energy environment continues to expand its U.S. footprint. . . . more

Lids continues store expansion with two firsts

CSA
Lids continues to expand with both new and existing concepts. . . . more

Dave’s Hot Chicken Bringing Units to New Hampshire and Massachusetts

Franchising.com
Dave’s Hot Chicken announced today it has inked a franchise agreement with Al Graziano to make its entrance into New Hampshire and Massachusetts. . . . more

Bertucci's closes multiple Mass, NH restaurants amid bankruptcy filing

CBS Boston
A well-known restaurant chain has closed seven of its locations in New England - five of those are in the Boston area. . . . more

Applebee’s owner to acquire Fuzzy’s Taco Shop for $80M

Restaurant Business
Dine Brands is finally getting its third concept. . . . more

McDonald’s Testing New Restaurant Format for On-the-Go Customers

QSR
In McDonald’s top six markets globally, digital has rocketed to more than a third of system-wide sales, fueled by north of 43 million active app customers. . . . more

Wegmans lines up its next new store locations

Winsight Grocery Business
Further expanding its regional footprint, Wegmans Food Markets aims to open two new stores in 2023 and has another five locations in its brick-and-mortar pipeline. . . . more

Steak ‘n Shake's Transformation Remains a Work in Progress

QSR
Steak ‘n Shake intends to emerge from COVID-19 reimagined across two areas: Firstly, structurally as it continues a 2018-hatched transition labeled the “franchise partnership program.”. . . more

This 56-Unit Premium Sandwich Concept Has a Unique Recipe for Growth

QSR
Mr. Pickle’s Sandwich Shop, a beloved northern California brand that has grown from one to 56 locations over the course of almost 30 years, recently announced plans to expand franchise opportunities nationwide. . . . more

Five Below maintains momentum with strong quarter; lifts guidance

CSA
Five Below reported a better-than-expected third quarter during which it continued to expand its footprint as it entered two new states. . . . more

Trader Joe’s takes top spot in ‘brand intimacy’ ranking

CSA
A popular grocer bests other retailers when it comes to making emotional connections with customers. . . . more

Black Friday in-store traffic up 3%

CSA
Shoppers returned to physical stores and shopping centers on Black Friday even as they continued to set new records online. . . . more

Rite Aid debuts small-store format

CSA
Rite Aid is going smaller — by more than half. . . . more

Inflation forces mom and pop restaurants and big chains to lean on their unique strengths

CNBC Business
As the restaurant industry battles inflation, the large size of chains and their access to cash gives them the upper hand, but independents have advantages of their own when managing higher costs. . . . more

Jack in the Box predicts unit growth in 2023

Restaurant Dive
The unit growth expected next year will include entering two new markets: Salt Lake City and Louisville, Kentucky. . . . more

How a second drive-thru lane boosted sales for an A&W franchisee

SOURCE
Third-generation A&W franchisee Anthony Walker has seen just about every iteration of fast food restaurants. His grandparents set up an A&W in Wisconsin as a roadside stand. That location has since transformed from a drive-in to a drive-thru with a dining room. . . . more

Macy’s establishes mini distribution centers at 35 stores

Retail Dive
Macy’s is using space within 35 of its stores to function as mini distribution centers as the retailer positions its e-commerce network to handle an expected influx of shipments ahead of the holidays. . . . more

Winn-Dixie Owner Southeastern Grocers Considers Sale

PYMNTS
Nearly one year after cancelling its plans to go public, Florida-based supermarket chain owner Southeastern Grocers is reportedly considering an outright sale of the company. . . . more

ICSC predicts $125 billion in consumer spending over Thanksgiving weekend

CSA
Consumers are ready to shop over Thanksgiving weekend — particularly in physical stores. . . . more

H&M unveils ‘first of its kind’ rotating style store concept in New York

CSA
H&M has opened a new type of store experience that will be updated with new fashions, visuals, events and neighborhood partners throughout the year. . . . more

Primark continues U.S. store expansion

CSA
Primark is kicking off its U.S. growth plan to reach 60 stores by 2026. . . . more

As chains expand drive-thrus, speed of service becomes paramount

Restaurant Dive
Shortly after Hawaiian Bros opened a third location in Overland Park, Kansas, co-founder Cameron McNie realized the drive-thru was creating big problems. While opening sales were double that of the chain’s previous two restaurants, which don’t have drive-thrus, the parking lot was a gridlock. . . . more

Chipotle to open 250 to 285 restaurants in 2023

CSA
Chipotle Mexican Grill has reached a new milestone. . . . more

Foxtrot Preps 5th D.C.-Area Location

Progressive Grocer
Innovative c-store chain Foxtrot has revealed that its fifth Washington, D.C.-area location, in Bethesda, Md., at 7262 Woodmont Avenue, will officially open to the public on Friday, Nov. 18. Consumers who download and use the Foxtrot app opening week will receive a gift while supplies last. . . . more

Sweetgreen to open first drive-thru in Chicago suburb

Restaurant Dive
Sweetgreen will open its first drive-thru pickup window, or “Sweetlane,” in Schaumburg, Illinois, within the next year, the chain announced Wednesday. . . . more

Dutch Bros targets 150 new stores for 2023

CSA
Dutch Bros. Inc. is on track to meeting its store expansion goal.  . . . more

Sally Beauty closing hundreds of stores

CSA
Sally Beauty Holdings is accelerating its store optimization plans. . . . more

Malls have transformed themselves into mixed-use lifestyle centers

ModernRetail
Lifestyle centers are the new malls, at least according to retail industry experts. . . . more

Ahold Delhaize posts strong Q3 results as Stop & Shop moves ahead

Grocery Dive
Ahold Delhaize on Wednesday reported robust financial results for the third quarter of 2022, with U.S. same-store sales up 8.2%, excluding gasoline, and net sales coming in at 14.7 billion euros ($14.8 billion), an 8.8% increase at constant exchange rates. . . . more

Freshii Inks Deal to Grow in New Jersey

QSR
Omnichannel health and wellness brand, Freshii Inc., announced it has entered into a new multi-unit agreement with brothers, Greg and Ryan Lahr, for the planned development of six new restaurant locations over the next five years in New Jersey, US. . . . more

Target goes big — unveils larger-format store with more modern design

CSA
Target Corp.’s latest new store strategy involves a bigger footprint, with more space for fulfillment of online orders. . . . more

In the Wake of COVID, Boston's Downtown Poised for Reinvention

NBC 10 Boston
The City of Boston is relaunching a push to revitalize its downtown by trying to make it more affordable to live, offer more diverse businesses and change the way people get around. . . . more

Sweetgreen to test fully automated restaurants next year

Restaurant Business
Sweetgreen plans to open two fully automated restaurants in 2023 using the robotic Spyce technology acquired last year, the company said Tuesday. . . . more

Panera Bread targets growth in urban markets with new digitally driven formats

CSA
Panera Bread is expanding into urban markets and non-traditional settings with a streamlined store model. . . . more

Kohl’s CEO to step down

CSA
The chief executive of Kohl’s is moving on — to another big job. . . . more

Where is the Plant-Based Movement Headed Next?

QSR
According to Datassential, 29 percent of the American population limits meat consumption in some manner. Furthermore, 28 percent say they prefer plant-based over animal proteins. . . . more

Shake Shack to Add Kiosks at Every Location

QSR
Shake Shack has more stores under construction than it ever has at 35 locations. . . . more

Chili’s launches its first delivery, takeout-only restaurant

Restaurant Dive
Chili’s 1,600-square-foot format is designed to expand the brand’s reach into dense and untapped markets where diners prefer off-premise service. . . . more

REI Co-Op in New England expansion

CSA
REI continues to expand its store portfolio. . . . more

Inflation to dampen holiday spending, retail trade group forecasts

CNBC Business
Getting shoppers to spend this holiday season won’t be easy. . . . more

Starbucks U.S. sales climb as customers spend more on pricey drinks

CNBC Business
Starbucks on Thursday reported quarterly earnings and revenue that topped analysts’ estimates, fueled by U.S. customers spending more on iced coffee drinks and Pumpkin Spice Lattes. . . . more

Dave's Hot Chicken Inks Deal to Enter New Hampshire

QSR
Dave’s Hot Chicken, the Los Angeles-based Street food sensation turned breakthrough fast-casual brand, announced today it has inked a franchise agreement with Al Graziano to make its entrance into New Hampshire and expand its existing presence in Massachusetts. . . . more

Aldi, Lidl serve up Thanksgiving price breaks

Supermarket News
With grocery prices still up amid elevated food inflation, discount grocers Aldi and Lidl are keeping them down for the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday. . . . more

Johnny Rockets in Burlington Has Closed

Boston Restaurant Talk
A California-based chain of hamburger places is now just down to one location in the Greater Boston area. . . . more

3 retail deals that went awry this year

Retail Dive
Deals, it appears, go through cycles. . . . more

Ace Hardware to open more than 170 stores in 2022

CSA
Ace Hardware is not backing down from expansion. . . . more

First Look: Kohl’s opens concept store with self-checkout, other new elements

CSA
Kohl’s has unveiled a one-of-a-kind “concept” store designed to provide a more localized and modern shopping experience. . . . more

Albertsons pharmacies take pet prescription transfers from vets

Supermarket News
Albertsons Companies, Inc. (NYSE: ACI) announced it is introducing time and money-saving solutions for pet parents who are struggling to afford the cost of medications and veterinary services. . . . more

DoorDash, Walgreens partner to deliver COVID medications

Supermarket News
As part of DoorDash’s work to broaden access to COVID-19 vaccines, tests, and treatments, we’re proud to announce a new initiative to provide critical COVID-19 treatments to people living in underserved communities across the U.S. Stepping up to answer the President’s call to action, we’re partnering with Walgreens to facilitate free delivery of prescriptions of Paxlovid, an oral COVID-19 medication that can reduce the risk of hospitalization and death, directly to the doorsteps of vulnerable Americans. . . . more

‘The future is more local and it is more social’: Why Grocers are developing third spaces in stores

Modern Retail
The grocery store isn’t just a place to shop for essentials anymore. Some grocers are now dedicating spaces in the store for community members to gather and socialize — often referred to as ‘third spaces’. . . . more

Boot Barn says its store expansion strategy is paying off

ModernRetail
Boot Barn says it propelled sales forward thanks to store expansion — even as digital channels face headwinds. . . . more

Is it Time for Dynamic Pricing in the Restaurant Industry?

QSR
As food and labor costs are increasing and consumers are reducing their spending, restaurant operators are facing the dilemma of either increasing their prices to maintain profitability or trying to “tough it out” so as not to upset their guests. . . . more

Chipotle’s menu price hikes haven’t fazed high-income households

Restaurant Dive
Chipotle’s dine-in sales increased 22.1% year-over-year during Q3 2022, according to the company’s earnings release. Comparatively, dine-in sales rose 35.9% during Q2 2022. . . . more

Target triples Apple shop-in-shops ahead of holidays

Retail Dive
Target and Apple are deepening their relationship with added shop-in-shops and tech perks tied to the retailer’s loyalty program. . . . more

Report: NYC restaurants with outdoor dining recovered sales faster

Restaurant Dive
Restaurants and neighborhoods that participated in New York City’s Open Streets program, in which streets were closed to accommodate outdoor seeing, performed better than those that did not, according to a New York City Department of Transportation report released Tuesday. . . . more

Aldi U.S. to up the ante in online grocery

Supermarket News
Aldi U.S. aims to get more serious with its website — in a big way. . . . more

Report: Full-service chains surpass pre-pandemic sales

Restaurant Dive
This uptick in sales compared to pre-pandemic levels reflect the growing impact of inflation and rising menu prices on company operations. Full-service meal prices were up 8.8% during the last 12 months compared to an increase of 7.1% for limited service, according to the Consumer Price Index. . . . more

How Halloween became a $10B business for retailers

Retail Dive
Driving through a neighborhood in October, it isn’t uncommon to find houses adorned in larger-than-life skeletons, inflatable characters, animatronics and other items to get into the spooky spirit of the season. . . . more

Americans still like Black Friday

CSA
Americans have not lost their affection for heading to stores on Black Friday. . . . more

Japanese sneaker, streetwear brand Atmos debuts women’s retail concept

CSA
Atmos has opened a space designed to address the underserved market of women's streetwear in the U.S.  . . . more

At Home in expansion mode

CSA
At Home has had a busy October. . . . more

Pep Boys’ shuttering of its auto parts business makes 81 storefronts available

CSA
Manny, Moe, and Jack have bid farewell to their auto parts business, leaving scores of retail spaces vacant for new occupants across the United States. . . . more

COVID is Tough, but Velvet Taco's Growth Plan is Better

QSR
Velvet Taco began 2021 with fewer than 20 locations. In the nearly two years since, the fast casual has not only faced unprecedented inflation, but also an ownership change. . . . more

When grocery giants merge, consumers benefit

Fox Business
The announcement that grocery giant Kroger intends to buy rival Albertsons is already provoking speculation that the Federal Trade Commission will try to block the deal. . . . more

Indoor mini-golf/dining concept Puttshack continues U.S. expansion with new capital

CSA
An entertainment destination that combines tech-driven mini-golf with food and drink and whose creators include the founders of Topgolf has closed a new round of funding to support its U.S. expansion. . . . more

Best Buy launches Mac laptop upgrade program with BNPL provider

CSA
Best Buy Co. Inc. is combining buy now, pay later (BNPL) financing with an upgrade option for select Mac Laptop models. . . . more

Will the Kroger-Albertsons deal get past regulators?

Grocery Dive
Before it can complete its $24.6 billion deal to acquire Albertsons, Kroger will have to successfully navigate an intensive review process by regulators that are closely scrutinizing large mergers, experts say. . . . more

Shifting Population Trends Impact the Restaurant Industry

QSR
More than two years after the pandemic, consumers and restaurant operators are experiencing varying conditions by market with results that can only be described as uneven. . . . more

Mall Do’s & Don’ts: Create a city within a city

CSA
DO…pay attention to what consumers are looking for. They want everything at their fingertips--food, entertainment, luxury goods, fitness, and wellness. They want it 24 hours a day. And they don’t want to commute all over town to get it. So you want to create a city within a city. . . . more

Mall Do’s and Don’ts: Use empty anchors as the foundations for new experiences

CSA
DO…change the experience that’s been in existence for 30 or 40 years and doesn’t work anymore. Create an open, activated plaza experience. Create a sense of place. . . . more

Untuckit boosts store performance with traffic analysis

CSA
A direct-to-consumer apparel brand known for its signature untucked shirts is carefully observing customer behavior in its stores. . . . more

Jack in the Box unveils takeout-only prototype; looks to reduce buildout costs by 20%

CSA
Jack in the Box’s restaurant of the future is designed to meet the continuing demand for drive-thru service and mobile ordering. . . . more

The North Face to open 70-plus stores in North America

CSA
The North Face is expanding its footprint — at home and across the globe. . . . more

El Pollo Loco hires Dunkin’ VP as COO

Restaurant Dive
Maria Hollandsworth, a Dunkin’ regional VP of operations and formerly VP of strategic initiatives and operations services at Jack in the Box, will join El Pollo Loco as chief operating officer on Oct. 31, the company announced Monday. . . . more

At Home introduces app, expands home delivery

CSA
At Home is busily adding to its omnichannel capabilities. . . . more

Placer.ai: Big sales could bolster traffic at centers this holiday season

CSA
Overstocked inventories promise big bargains and strong traffic in shopping centers this holiday season. . . . more

McDonald’s to sell Krispy Kreme doughnuts at 9 locations in latest menu experiment

CNBC Business
McDonald’s will sell Krispy Kreme doughnuts in select restaurants later this month for the first time. . . . more

Largest Phenix Salon Suites Franchisee Continues Expansion, with More Than 50 Open Locations

Franchising.com
Phenix Salon Suites, the nation’s leading salon suite franchise turned international trailblazer, continues to prosper alongside its largest franchise operator, Kevin Davis, who has opened a total of 51 locations with the brand in ten years. . . . more

Survey: Physical stores dominate impulse purchases

CSA
When it comes to making impulse purchases, brick-and-mortar retail — specifically the aisle — trumps online. . . . more

Trader Joe’s expects to open three more stores by yearend

CSA
Trader Joe’s continues to expand its reach across the U.S. . . . more

Do Restaurants Need Cashiers Anymore?

QSR
Trends have accelerated over the last few years. Customers want meals prepared fast and served in a convenient fashion. . . . more

Dunkin’ fans, angered by rewards changes, say brand has lost its identity

Restaurant Dive
Changes to Dunkin’s loyalty program, which have made it more expensive to collect and redeem rewards, have prompted some customers to stop ordering from the coffee chain. . . . more

Is Kohl’s ready for a change?

Retail Dive
Kohl’s has had an eventful year, yet not much has changed. . . . more

Coffee consumers, amid inflation, have new reasons to keep buying: Dunkin' Americas president

Fox Business
Record inflation has been taking a crack at many of America’s businesses and continuing to send prices for scores of products and services sky-high. . . . more

Walgreens beats sales expectations, as it expands its health-care business

CNBC Business
Walgreens Boots Alliance on Thursday exceeded fiscal fourth-quarter sales expectations, as the drugstore chain turns itself into a more health-care focused company. . . . more

Kroger agrees to buy rival grocery company Albertsons for $24.6 billion

CNBC Business
Rival grocers Kroger and Albertsons on Friday announced plans to team up. . . . more

Franchise Interest Soars for Niche Restaurant Concepts

QSR
From taquitos to dumplings to vegan versions of American fast-food classics, a growing number of fast-casual and quick-service concepts are turning to atypical menu items to entice customers and franchisees alike. . . . more

JCPenney begins Black Friday on Nov. 1; closing stores on Thanksgiving

CSA
JCPenney is not wasting any time after Halloween to begin its holiday promotions, and is giving store employees a Turkey Day break. . . . more

First Look: Pacsun unveils new store design

CSA
PacSun is transforming its store environment as it continues to expand its footprint. . . . more

American Family Care Climbs Best-Performing Franchise Ranking

Franchising.com
American Family Care (AFC), the nation’s leading provider of urgent care, occupational medicine and accessible primary care, celebrates its latest ranking in the Franchise Times Top 500. . . . more

Marylou's Opens in Waltham

Boston Restaurant Talk
A local chain of coffee shops whose locations are south of Boston has opened its first outlet in the western suburbs. . . . more

Mace and Grady of KeyPoint Partners negotiate 876 s/f lease to Blank Street Coffee at 1380 Mass. Ave.

NEREJ
KeyPoint Partners negotiated a lease with Blank Street Coffee for an 876 s/f space at 1380 Massachusetts Ave. in Harvard Sq. Vice presidents of retail brokerage at KeyPoint Don Mace and Rob Grady negotiated the lease on behalf of the landlord. 1380 Mass. Ave. directly faces the pedestrian walkway near the entrance to the Harvard T station in Harvard Sq. and is directly across from Harvard Yard. . . . more

Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, Publix among grocers in American Innovation Index

Supermarket News
Trader Joe’s led a group of food and drug retailers named to Fordham University’ 2022 American Innovation Index. . . . more

Fat Brands opens first co-branded Johnny Rockets, Hurricane Wings restaurant

Restaurant Dive
Fat Brands has opened its first co-branded Johnny Rockets and Hurricane Wings restaurant, the company wrote in an email to Restaurant Dive. . . . more

Puttshack raises $150M in capital to support rapid US growth

Restaurant Dive
Puttshack has raised $150 million in growth capital from funds managed by BlackRock and ongoing support from Promethean Investments, the company announced Tuesday. . . . more

BJ’s opens new headquarters

CSA
BJ’s Wholesale Club Holdings Inc. has completed the move of its headquarters to a new location. . . . more

Forever 21 opening 14 stores across the U.S.

CSA
Forever 21 has already begun a nationwide brick-and-mortar expansion plan — with an emphasis on outlet locations. . . . more

Ulta makes its debut with Tanger Outlets

CSA
Outlet networks that traditionally rely on tourist sales for volume are now mixing in tenants to securemore steady local business. . . . more

Kicco Italian Coffee Is Opening by North Station in Boston

Boston Restaurant Talk
An Italian cafe that should be popular with commuters is on its way to Boston. . . . more

WSJ: Retail real estate is having a big year

CSA
The United States’ retail vacancy rate in the second quarter fell to its lowest level in at least 15 years—6.1%. . . . more

Sports-restaurant concept Tom’s Watch Bar in new funding; expanding nationwide

CSA
A brand known for its “360-degree” viewing room is targeting “ultra-high” traffic locations as it expands nationwide. . . . more

Giant Food incentivizes customers with store-brand rewards

Supermarket News
Giant Food is giving loyalty program members the incentive to trade points for private-label items. . . . more

Wendy’s drive-thru lanes struggle, while Chick-fil-A has the fastest service, report says

CNBC Business
Wendy’s is often credited with pioneering drive-thru ordering, but the burger chain’s drive-thru accuracy and customer satisfaction scores lagged behind its rivals this year, according to a new study. . . . more

KFC is bringing back a fan-favorite menu item

CNN Business
Kentucky Fried Chicken is bringing back a fan favorite after a nearly decade-long hiatus. . . . more

Moody’s Analytics: To survive, malls must share in the risks of their tenants

CSA
American malls must attain average sales per sq. ft. of at least $520 to stay in business—minus the sales of high-volume tenants like Apple and Lululemon. . . . more

Kohl’s joins other retailers in kicking off holiday deals in October

CSA
Early holiday promotions are fast becoming a trend in the retail industry. . . . more

Discount Tire unveils drive-thru store concept

CSA
Discount Tire is aiming to change the traditional tire service and buying experience for customers. . . . more

Trader Joe's finally brings back free samples

CBS Boston
Freebies are back at the grocery store after a long pandemic hiatus. . . . more

Shake Shack Vies for Gen Z by Entering Gaming World

QSR
As brands vie for Gen Z’s ever-fleeting attention, Shake Shack is betting on gaming—specifically, one that targets younger generations whose schedules allow for hours spent simulating idyllic lives. . . . more

Yum! is 'Scanning Categories' for a Potential Acquisition

QSR
Yum! Brands, already the biggest restaurant company in the world, is actively "scanning categories" in the M&A market, said CFO Chris Turner at the 13th Annual U.S. All Stars Conference in London. . . . more

3 ways retailers can drive private brand growth

Supermarket News
Retailers report having strong goals over the next two years for their private brand portfolio, with a current average dollar share of 18.2% and an ambitious goal of 22.6% in the next two years, according to a new report from The Food Industry Association (FMI). . . . more

Who needs another subscription service? Walmart is betting its millions of customers do

CNBC Business
Americans have tons of subscriptions. Even with inflation, Walmart thinks they’re willing to pay for one more. . . . more

18 retailers at risk of bankruptcy as consumers tighten wallets in 2022

Retail Dive
Last year was a great one for many if not most in and connected to the retail industry, except for its restructuring experts. (But don’t worry about them — the bankruptcy lawyers and consultants had a sensational 2020.) . . . more

Hoagie restaurant chain to open 10 Capital Region stores

News10
PrimoHoagies, a gourmet Italian specialty sandwich chain, is expanding into New York and the Capital Region. . . . more

Bed Bath & Beyond in big Q2 loss as revenue falls 28%

CSA
Bed Bath & Beyond’s struggles continued in its second quarter as the company’s loss widened significantly and sales fell. . . . more

Peloton to open branded shops inside Dick’s Sporting Goods

CSA
Peloton has entered into its first-ever brick-and-mortar partnership. . . . more

P.F. Chang’s adds subscription tier to loyalty program

Restaurant Dive
P.F. Chang’s is adding a subscription level to its loyalty program, offering customers benefits like free delivery, for $6.99 a month, the company announced Wednesday. . . . more

Aldi store in Brooklyn showcases chain’s value formula

Supermarket News
VP Scott Patton sheds more light on how savings are passed on to shoppers. . . . more

California Pizza Kitchen Enters New Food Segment for National Pizza Month

FSR
In October—designated as National Pizza Month—California Pizza Kitchen will do something it's never done in its nearly 40-year history. And it has nothing to do with the wildly popular Italian dish. . . . more

Survey: Black Friday, Cyber Monday lose luster with holiday shoppers

CSA
The timing of when consumers will do their holiday shopping is shifting from years past. . . . more

Academy Sports + Outdoors continues store expansion

CSA
Academy Sports + Outdoors has expanded its footprint in the Bluegrass State. . . . more

Macy’s enters marketplace competition with Amazon, Walmart, eBay

CSA
A new major player is competing in the third-party online marketplace. . . . more

Bertucci's in Woburn Has Closed

Boston Restaurant Talk
It looks like another location of a local chain of Italian restaurants has closed, and this is its second outlet north of Boston to shutter over the past few months. . . . more

Barnes & Noble will replace two former Boston-area Amazon Books stores

WCVB
Two Boston-area malls that were abandoned by Amazon earlier this year when the company decided to close all of its brick-and-mortar bookstores will soon become home to Barnes & Noble stores. . . . more

COVID Proves No Match for Smashburger's Development Dreams

QSR
Smashburger president Carl Bachmann isn’t the best person to ask how inflationary macroeconomic factors are impacting franchisees. . . . more

Macy’s and Toys ‘R’ Us set to open in-store shops; release toy guide

CSA
Macy’s Inc. and Toys “R” Us are officially launching their partnership in time for the holidays. . . . more

Kelly’s Roast Beef Sets Sights on New Hampshire Expansion

RestaurantNews.com
The Boston-based inventor of the North Shore roast beef sandwich, Kelly’s Roast Beef, is looking to continue expanding in the Northeastern United States with an emphasis on growth in New Hampshire. . . . more

QuikTrip Will Enter Chicago in 2023

CSNews
The convenience retailer is planning to open three stores in the metro area. . . . more

Ollie’s bargain-hunting shoppers push the Pa. retailer’s growth to 457 stores

PennLive
Ollie’s Bargain Outlet president and CEO John Swygert described the last two-and-a-half years as “a total rollercoaster ride.”. . . more

Costco’s top line grows by over $30 billion in fiscal 2022

Supermarket News
Costco Wholesale has followed up one strong fiscal year with another. . . . more

BJ’s opening first store in Indiana

CSA
BJ’s Wholesale Club Holdings Inc. is continuing its expansion beyond its Northeast U.S. roots into its 18th state of operation. . . . more

Whole Foods CEO wants to bring back ‘the theater of retail’

Grocery Dive
As Jason Buechel settles into his role as Whole Foods Market’s new chief executive, he is looking to chart the iconic specialty grocer’s future by paying close attention to its past. . . . more

Olive Garden sales fall short, but parent company Darden stands by outlook

CNBC Business
Darden Restaurants on Thursday reported mixed quarterly results but stood by its outlook for fiscal 2023, predicting that inflation will cool in coming quarters. . . . more

Walmart isn’t waiting for Black Friday. It’s ready for holiday shoppers now

CNN Business
Halloween is still a month away, but Walmart is ready for Christmas. . . . more

Multi-Unit Jersey Mike’s Subs Franchisees Adds Teriyaki Madness to Their Portfolio

RestaurantNews.com
Teriyaki Madness, the Seattle-style Teriyaki Shop, is officially bringing its exalted version of teriyaki to Connecticut following a recent signing with multi-unit Jersey Mike’s Subs franchise owners Ken Schanke and Audrey Poynton alongside their restaurant management group Team Meraki. . . . more

It Happens Here: Norwood's 200-year-old Winsmith Mill now a special shopping center

CBS Boston
Norwood may be best known for the Route 1 Automile, first made famous by Ernie Boch senior's catchy commercials. . . . more

Ralph Lauren’s ‘next great chapter’ includes 250 new stores

CSA
Ralph Lauren Corp. has unveiled its new strategic plan, which includes financial targets for the next three years. . . . more

Claire’s expands partnership with Walmart

CSA
Claire’s is expanding its partnership with the country’s biggest retailer. . . . more

Walgreens to pay $1.4 billion to buy rest of Shields Health; leadership shakeup

CSA
Walgreens Boots Alliance is upping its investment in the fast-growing specialty pharmacy business. . . . more

Investindustrial to buy majority stake in food chain Eataly

Reuters
European private equity firm Investindustrial will buy a majority stake in Eataly to accelerate the upmarket Italian food chain's global expansion, the two companies said in a joint statement on Wednesday. . . . more

Halloween spending to hit a record $10.6 billion; most popular costume is….

CSA
Consumers are pumped to celebrate Halloween this year. . . . more

Study: Market Basket, Aldi among top grocers for inflationary times

CSA
A nationwide study of the $1 trillion U.S. grocery market reveals which grocers are winning customers as the economy falters. . . . more

Nordstrom adopts one-year ‘poison pill’

CSA
Nordstrom has gone on the offense. . . . more

FunCity Adventure Park to Open at River Pointe Shopping Center in Algonquin, Illinois

REBusiness Online
FunCity Adventure Park has signed a 35,549-square-foot retail lease to open at River Pointe in the northwest Chicago suburb of Algonquin. . . . more

AutoZone’s Q4 income, sales top estimates; store growth continues

CSA
AutoZone closed the books on a strong year, driven by increased momentum in its commercial business. . . . more

JCPenney to roll out beauty shops chainwide

CSA
JCPenney is taking its new expanded beauty concept nationwide. . . . more

Dick’s Sporting Goods opening more Public Lands’ stores

CSA
Dicks’s Sporting Goods is more than doubling its Public Lands’ store portfolio. . . . more

Lids opens its largest store yet

CSA
Lids has gone big in Las Vegas. . . . more

TGI Fridays signs big development deal

CSA
TGI Fridays has entered into what it described as “the most significant development agreement” in its 50-years-plus history. . . . more

Build-A-Bear Workshop puts a different spin on its newest store

CSA
Build-A-Bear Workshop has gone pro. . . . more

How to Choose the Right Cloud Strategy for Your Restaurant

QSR
Scaling a business takes motivation and effort, but it also takes careful planning. . . . more

Wegmans ends self-checkout app after too much shoplifting

CNN Business
In 2019, Wegmans, the cult-favorite northeastern grocery chain, rolled out a new mobile app that allowed customers to scan, bag and pay for groceries while they shopped and then skip the checkout line altogether. . . . more

Kanye West tells Gap he’s ending partnership; will open his own stores

CSA
Kanye West’s two-year collaboration with Gap Inc. is apparently over. . . . more

3 Bed Bath & Beyond stores in Massachusetts appear on closing list

CBS Boston
Three Bed Bath & Beyond locations in Massachusetts appear on a "store closings" list posted to the struggling retailer's website. . . . more

Why is Family Dollar hacking at its prices amid inflation?

Retail Dive
Last fall, Dollar Tree broke from decades of tradition with a new price point, the $1.25 tag, after a generation as a true dollar store. . . . more

Consumers buying more store brands amid rising prices

CSA
As consumers reduce purchasing amid higher prices, two categories remain largely unaffected. . . . more

Founder of Patagonia gives the company away

CSA
As outdoor apparel and gear company Patagonia kicks off its next 50 years, its founder and owner, Yvon Chouinard, and his family have made an unusual decision. . . . more

Mastercard: Retail sales heat up in August, look good for holidays

CSA
In-store and online U.S. retail sales climbed in August, and the holiday forecast is cheery despite inflation. . . . more

Kroger releases new budget private label line

CSA
America’s largest grocery retailer is revamping its private label branding strategy. . . . more

Burger King to pour $400M into advertising, restaurant remodels, app improvements over 2 years

Fox Business
Burger King is planning to invest more than $400 million over two years in advertising, restaurant enhancements and remodels and to support tech and digital improvements. . . . more

Target's ace CEO isn't leaving anytime soon

CNN Business
Target chief Brian Cornell — who led a major comeback at the retail chain — will stay on the job for three more years, the company announced Wednesday. . . . more

Popshelf Opens 8th Dallas-Area Store in 2022

Connect CRE
A fast-growing retail concept, Popshelf, has opened its eighth location in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, in the last 8 months alone. . . . more

Batteries Plus Sets the Mark for Franchise Expansion through Organic Growth

PR Newswire
Batteries Plus, the nation's largest and fastest-growing battery, light bulb, key fob and phone repair franchise, has enjoyed a tremendous degree of system-wide growth over the course of the past couple of years. . . . more

Retail is back: Empty space now below pre-Covid levels

The Real Deal
As the office market continues to struggle with vacancies, retail has bucked the trend. . . . more

JCPenney applies AI, AR to skincare

CSA
JCPenney is partnering with a digital branding company to offer artificial intelligence (AI) and augmented reality (AR) beauty experiences. . . . more

The Secrets to Noodles & Company’s Growth Momentum

RestaurantNews.com
Noodles & Company, the national fast-casual chain known for spreading Uncommon Goodness with its globally inspired noodle bowls, best-in-class service, and values-centric culture, has seen strong sales and unit growth in recent years. . . . more

Betsy Hamm, Duck Donuts CEO, on the keys to transitioning from emerging to mid-sized brand

NRN
In 2021, Mechanicsburg, Penn.-based Duck Donuts went through a transitionary phase: The company was bought by private equity firm NewSpring, founder Russ DiGilio retired, and former COO Betsy Hamm was named CEO of the company. . . . more

As it burns through cash, GameStop says it’s ready to start thinking about profits again

Retail Dive
GameStop’s net loss in the second quarter widened by more than 75% from a year ago to $108.7 million. Sales, at roughly $1.1 billion, fell slightly from last year. . . . more

Lowe’s expands same-day delivery nationwide

CSA
Lowe’s Companies Inc. is taking its partnership with a well-known online delivery platform beyond a pilot. . . . more

Bloomingdale’s marks milestone with virtual store

CSA
Bloomingdale’s is celebrating its 150th anniversary with some cutting-edge technology. . . . more

Survey: Consumers have high holiday shipping expectations

CSA
The desire for quick delivery is re-emerging among consumers as the holiday shopping season begins. . . . more

KeyPoint Negotiates 21,842 SF Lease for Ski Haus at Former Woburn AC Moore

The Real Reporter
KeyPoint Partners negotiated a 21,842 SF lease with Ski Haus at Main Street Shopping Center in Woburn, MA. Keypoint’s Vice President of Retail Brokerage, Don Mace negotiated the lease on behalf of the landlord. . . . more

Owners plan to demolish iconic music venue Middle East in Cambridge, build 6-story hotel

CBS Boston
When night falls in funky Central Square, the moon shines, and the music spills out of the famed Middle East. . . . more

A Vision of a Post-COVID Era Emerges for Restaurants

QSR
In the second quarter, Texas Roadhouse watched its comp sales bump close to 10 percent in April and May (8.7 and 9.6 percent, respectively) before softening to 5.2 percent in June. . . . more

Pet care remains buoyant as consumers cling to premium brands

Supermarket News
Momentum has stayed strong from the surge in pet adoption during the pandemic that boosted the category, said Shep Kroner, director of customer insight for UNFI Brands+, the private-label division of Providence, R.I.-based distributor United Natural Foods Inc. . . . more

Teriyaki Madness Closing Out Summer With 91 New Franchise Locations Sold Among 27 New Franchisees

RestaurantNews.com
Makin’ moves in 2022! Teriyaki Madness, the Seattle-style Teriyaki Shop franchise, is midway through the third quarter of the year and already achieved 91 new units sold among 27 new franchisees as it continues to provide its signature teriyaki bowls to a loyal and growing fanbase. . . . more

Fast Casual Breakfast Concept, Effin Egg, Opens First NYC Location

RestaurantNews.com
On September 8th, grab & go breakfast joint, Effin Egg, is opening their first-ever New York location (following others in Florida, Georgia and Tennessee). . . . more

6 Express Edit stores to open in the next 90 days

Retail Dive
Express will open six Express Edit stores in the next 90 days, according to CEO Tim Baxter. . . . more

Big Lots opens Disney pop-ups

CSA
Big Lots has entered into a limited-time partnership with The Walt Disney Company. . . . more

Meijer to launch new store concept

CSA
Meijer is expanding its brick-and-mortar footprint with its first new format since 2018. . . . more

Au Bon Pain Eyes Growth-Ready Future Under New Leadership

QSR
When Ericka Garza became president of Au Bon Pain last year, she knew what the first question from operators would be—what are you bringing to the table that’s unique? . . . more

Sales up sharply for chicken — in store and online

Supermarket News
Despite price hikes, greater consumer interest in a wider variety of proteins, and supply shortages resulting in store out-of-stocks, dollar sales for chicken are up sharply, with relatively small volume decreases. . . . more

Baja Fresh makes plant-based items permanent

Restaurant Dive
Baja Fresh has made its Impossible Meat Made From Plants items, which it initially launched last July, permanent additions to its menu nationwide, the company said Wednesday. . . . more

Retailers take expensive measures to clear inventory ahead of peak season

CSA
With consumer demand cooling, retailers have shifted from scrambling to secure supply to aggressively clearing excess inventory. . . . more

Amazon opens second cashierless grocery store in Chevy Chase

CSA
The newest Amazon Fresh high-tech grocery store features frictionless shopping. . . . more

American Eagle, Finish Line accept Cash App Pay online

CSA
A number of enterprise retailers are now taking a newly-available form of mobile e-commerce payment. . . . more

Starbucks names its next CEO

CSA
Starbucks has found its next chief executive — and he’s not a local guy. . . . more

Roche Bros. locks in prices for 70th anniversary

Supermarket News
Roche Bros. Supermarkets is marking its 70th anniversary by locking down prices on hundreds of items. . . . more

Blaze Pizza Expanding in Georgia and Headed to Maine

QSR
Blaze Pizza announced the signing of new multi-unit franchise agreements to broaden the brand’s presence across the South and Northeast. . . . more

Is a Golden Era of Fast Food Upon Us?

QSR
Don’t look now, but the big are getting bigger. Of the top 10 chains in the QSR 50 report, only two—McDonald’s and Subway—saw their unit count drop from 2020 to 2021, while the other eight added 1,116 units, or roughly the size of the entire 47-state Firehouse Subs enterprise. . . . more

Walmart-owned Sam’s Club raises annual membership fee for the first time in nine years

CNBC Business
Walmart-owned Sam’s Club said Wednesday it will raise its annual fees this fall, as the warehouse club’s membership hovers at a record high and inflation-pinched shoppers seek deals on bulk items. . . . more

What Walmart and Target’s performance told us about retail for the rest of 2022

Retail Dive
Few retailers have as wide and deep a view into the American consumer as Walmart and Target. . . . more

Pet Supplies Plus unifies commerce across channels

CSA
The largest independent pet retailer in North America is streamlining payments online and in-store for its franchised and corporate locations. . . . more

Chico’s reports record Q2 earnings per share; revenue up 18%

CSA
Chico’s reports record Q2 earnings per share; revenue up 18%. . . . more

People returning to offices are still buying breakfast even as they cut back on other things

CNBC Business
Consumers may be dining out less, but breakfast sales are holding steady as people return to offices and grab a quick bite or iced coffee on the way to work. . . . more

Burlington falls behind off-price rivals in Q2 as lower-income households feel inflation’s pinch

Retail Dive
Under the cloud that inflation has cast over the financial stability of lower-income households, off-price retailers in recent days posted Q2 reports riddled with uncertainty over the second half of the year, and Burlington was especially hard hit. . . . more

Dick’s Sporting Goods offers in-person resale events

CSA
Dick’s Sporting Goods is partnering with an online sporting goods marketplace to trade gift cards for used sports gear. . . . more

Bed Bath & Beyond closing 150 stores, laying off 20% of staff

CBS Boston
Bed Bath & Beyond announced Wednesday it plans to close dozens of stores and lay off 20% of staff. . . . more

SoulCycle plans to close 25% of studios

CBS Boston
In the coming days, Soul Cycle plans to close about a quarter of its locations - and that could include spots in the Boston area. . . . more

Panera pilots AI at the drive-thru

CSA
Panera Bread’s latest technology innovation is artificial intelligence (AI)-enhanced drive-thru ordering. . . . more

Retailers offer more pre-Labor Day sales due to excess inventory

Fox Business
Retailers will typically offer sales around Labor Day to get stores ready for the pivotal holiday season. . . . more

Best Buy’s quarterly sales drop, as inflation-weary consumers pull back on spending

CNBC Business
Best Buy on Tuesday said sales dropped by about 13% in the second fiscal quarter, as the retailer felt a pullback from inflation-weary shoppers. . . . more

Stop & Shop locks in savings for shoppers

Supermarket News
Amid still-elevated food price inflation, Stop & Shop has launched a program to give customers more time to save. . . . more

Alex and Ani has $17.5M loan as it seeks growth after bankruptcy

Retail Dive
Jewelry retailer Alex and Ani has a new $17.5 million loan to fund its working capital needs and operations following last year’s restructuring in Chapter 11. . . . more

Is Dillard’s setting the pace for mid-tier department stores?

Retail Dive
As Macy’s, Kohl’s and J.C. Penney grapple with what success means for a mid-tier department store in the 21st century — fending off activist investors, taking on new owners or announcing new strategies — Southern department store chain Dillard’s quietly plugs along. . . . more

‘National Cinema Day’ to offer $3 movie tickets for one day

CNBC News
or one day, movie tickets will be just $3 in the vast majority of American theaters as part of a newly launched “National Cinema Day” to lure moviegoers during a quiet spell at the box office. . . . more

La-Z-Boy reports record FY 2023 first-quarter results

The Monroe News
Monroe-based La-Z-Boy Inc. recently reported record-setting first-quarter results for the quarter that ended July 30, 2022. . . . more

Deli meat and cheese primed for bigger slice

Supermarket News
This fall, life is expected to be close to normal for workers and schoolchildren as the number of people attending work or school virtually has plummeted since the pandemic reared its ugly head. . . . more

Victoria’s Secret Q2 sales tumble as shoppers curtail store visits

Retail Dive
With some strength in its core merchandise but weaker sales in other apparel, Victoria’s Secret Q2 net sales fell 6% year over year to $1.5 billion, as comps fell 8%, the lingerie maker said Wednesday. . . . more

Bloomingdale’s opening second store under 'Bloomie’s' banner

CSA
Bloomingdale’s is closing a traditional store as it opens its newest concept at a shopping center in Chicagoland. . . . more

Bed Bath & Beyond sets date to reveal comeback strategy

CSA
Bed Bath & Beyond is getting set to discuss its next chapter. . . . more

Consumer demand boosts Ulta Beauty as Q2 revenue, income, comp sales jump

CSA
Citing the “resilience” of the beauty category, Ulta Beauty delivered a strong second quarter and lifted its full-year outlook at a time when many retailers are doing the opposite. . . . more

Tractor Supply Company to open 10th distribution center

CSA
Tractor Supply Company is breaking ground on a new supply chain facility in Arkansas. . . . more

Dollar General posts strong Q2, upbeat guidance; taps CFO to head global expansion

CSA
Dollar General Corp. reported a strong second quarter with top- and bottom-line growth, and also raised its full-year sales outlook, as it withstood inflation challenges and economic uncertainty. . . . more

Stop & Shop makes health top of mind in store upgrade

Supermarket News
Stop & Shop has updated a store in Boston’s Grove Hall neighborhood to focus on community health and well-being. . . . more

Bath & Body Works launches nationwide loyalty program, app

Retail Dive
Bath & Body Works on Monday announced the nationwide launch of its loyalty program, dubbed My Bath & Body Works Rewards, according to a company press release. . . . more

As others battle inflation, Dick’s says its shopper is ‘holding up very well’

Retail Dive
While other retailers are struggling to manage inventory and inflation, Dick’s isn’t particularly worried about either.  . . . more

Bed Bath & Beyond snags a much-needed loan: WSJ

Retail Dive
Bed Bath & Beyond has found a lender to help boost its cash as it tries to stabilize its finances, according to a Wall Street Journal report that cited anonymous sources. . . . more

Staples, Office Depot partner with Instacart on large item delivery

CSA
A number of prominent retailers are among the first clients of a new Instacart service aimed at fulfilling online orders for big products. . . . more

This high-tech coffee shop wants to rival Dunkin’ and Starbucks in Boston

Boston Globe
There’s a new, high-tech coffee shop about to open multiple stores in Boston — and its founders think they can replace your morning coffee routine. . . . more

DraftKings goes Live! with its first gaming and dining establishment

CSA
Live! Hospitality & Entertainment, the company that’s brought 100,000 sq. ft. casinos to malls, is now bringing an online sports gaming brand into a mall with a 10,000-sq.-ft. bar and restaurant. . . . more

Regal Cinemas owner promises 'business as usual' amid bankruptcy talk

CBS News
The owner of Regal Cinemas confirmed Monday that it was considering filing for bankruptcy but promised "business as usual" at it tries to shore up its finances. . . . more

Paris Baguette Continues To Dominate the Bakery Franchise Industry; Inks Nearly 72 New Deals Since Start of 2022

RestaurantNews.com
Paris Baguette, the bakery café concept with 4,000 units worldwide, has seen significant growth in the first half of 2022. . . . more

KeyPoint Partners Negotiates Red Cross Lease in Kingston, MA

Boston Real Estate Time
KeyPoint Partners negotiated a lease with American Red Cross for a 5,001 square foot space at Summer Hill Plaza in Kingston, MA. Vice Presidents of Retail Brokerage Don Mace and Rob Grady negotiated the lease on behalf of the landlord. . . . more

Walmart+ adds Paramount+ to roster of benefits

Supermarket News
Walmart+ shoppers can soon tune in to “Star Trek: Strange New Worlds” while putting away their groceries. . . . more

Taco Bell pilots its own plant-based protein option

Restaurant Dive
Taco Bell is testing a proprietary plant-based protein with its new Crispy Melt Taco in the Birmingham, Alabama, area, the company announced Thursday. . . . more

Target takes 87% hit to operating profit as it resets inventory

Retail Dive
Target’s sales and earnings in the second quarter fell short of analyst estimates even after the retailer warned that it was rightsizing inventory in the face of flagging demand and refocusing around its best-selling categories. . . . more

Beyond Yoga to open its first permanent store

Retail Dive
Following its 2021 acquisition by Levi Strauss & Co., Beyond Yoga is opening its first brick-and-mortar store by the end of this year, the company announced on Thursday. . . . more

Kohl’s adding in-store Sephora shops at all locations

CSA
Kohl’s Corp. is expanding its partnership with beauty giant Sephora. . . . more

Staples targets back-to-school shoppers with its app

CSA
Staples is turning its mobile app into a single point of access for all of its back-to-school deals and special offers. . . . more

Check out Wendy’s ‘next gen’ restaurant design

CSA
The Wendy’s Company is combining innovative design and digital technology in its new restaurant design. . . . more

Contactless Payments Pave the Path Forward

CSA
Contactless payments are becoming mainstream in the convenience store industry, as more retailers upgrade to offer the service. . . . more

Office Depot adds on-demand delivery option timed for back-to-school

CSA
Parents and students have a new way to quickly receive online orders from Office Depot. . . . more

Simon names new treasurer

CSA
Donald G. Frey has been made an executive VP at Simon and named treasurer of the nation’s premier mall operator. . . . more

Yesway opens concept store for college kids

CSA
Students at a major Southwest university will have a new convenience shopping option this fall. . . . more

The Quiznos of Tomorrow Has Arrived

QSR
Quiznos is familiar with being an industry disruptor, says Brent Phillip, vice president of marketing and digital experience for parent REGO Restaurant Group. . . . more

Panera Brands names new CFO

CSA
Panera Brands Inc. has named a new finance head. . . . more

Meet the New Scalable Franchise Model from Pet Wants

1851Franchise.com
Founded more than a decade ago, Pet Wants, the only national provider of pet food freshly delivered to customers, has become a household name for pet owners and franchise professionals across the U.S. . . . more

Potbelly Has a Plan to Streamline Kitchen Operations

QSR
After spending 18 months elevating its consumer-facing tech stack with a new website and app, Potbelly is turning its attention toward streamlining back of house. . . . more

Dutch Bros. on track for 130 new stores in 2022; Q2 revenue jumps

CSA
Dutch Bros Inc. isn’t pulling back on its expansion. . . . more

BP expands its ampm convenience store brand to East Coast

CSA
There’s a new player moving into the already competitive East Coast convenience store market. . . . more

MA Sales Tax Holiday 2022: What To Know

Patch
For the most part, you won't pay full price on anything this weekend in Massachusetts. . . . more

Warby Parker remains committed to store expansion; cuts guidance

CSA
Warby Parker’s loss widened in the second quarter amid increased expenses. . . . more

Sears Holdings reaches $175M settlement with Lampert and company

Retail Dive
After nearly four years in bankruptcy, Sears Holdings and its one-time creditors said they have reached a settlement with its former CEO and majority owner Eddie Lampert and other investors. . . . more

Petco reorganizes leadership team, names new COO

Retail Dive
In a number of leadership announcements, Petco said on Tuesday that Chief Operating Officer and President of Services Mike Nuzzo will exit his position after more than seven years with the company, according to a press release. . . . more

Online grocery sales increased 17% in July

Supermarket Dive
Online grocery sales in the U.S. increased 17% in July year over year, to $7.8 billion, as inflation and COVID-19 anxieties continue to drive increases in the channel, according to the latest monthly e-commerce report from Brick Meets Click and Mercatus. . . . more

Whole Foods co-founder plans to launch vegetarian restaurant chain

Restaurant Dive
John Mackey, co-founder of Whole Foods Market, plans to build a plant-based restaurant chain. . . . more

Ahold Delhaize’s U.S. net sales climb 7.7% in Q2

Supermarket News
Global food retailer Ahold Delhaize built on a solid start to fiscal 2022 in its U.S. business with strong net, comparable and online sales growth for the second quarter. . . . more

Primark continues expansion into new states; announces price freeze

CSA
Primark has signed three new leases, bringing it into two states, as it continues to slowly but steadily grow its U.S. footprint. . . . more

The 25 fastest-growing retailers are …

CSA
Harbor Freight Tools led an annual listing of the fastest-growing retail companies. . . . more

Placer.ai: What top malls are doing to win traffic

CSA
Malls are dying?  Not the ones that succeed in turning themselves into “The Third Place.” . . . more