Thursday, January 31, 2008

Pantaloon Retail posts 62.9 per cent increase in income for the quarter ended December 31, ‘07

Pantaloon Retail (India) Limited, part of the Future Group, declared its unaudited financial results for the quarter ended December 31, 2007 wherein the Income from operations (Rs.1226.75 crore) for the quarter increased by 62.9 per cent; and PBDIT (Rs.110.93 crore) increased by 93.06 per cent.

The Meeting of the Board of Directors was held as scheduled i.e. 22nd January 2007 and the Board inter‑alia took the following decisions:

- Board took on record the Unaudited Financial Results for the second quarter ended on 31st December 2007 along with the Limited Review Report of the Statutory Auditors, which are attached herewith.

- Board has approved setting up wholly owned subsidiary companies for Big Bazaar and Food Bazaar, Speciality Retail Business Activities and Property & Mall Management Division and transfer the respective businesses of the Company on a going concern basis to the respective subsidiaries, subject to receipt of all requisite statutory and other necessary approvals.

- Board noted the appointment of Mr. C. P. Toshniwal as Chief Financial Officer w.e.f 18/01/2008 in place of Mr. K. K. Rathi who has resigned.

About Pantaloon Retail (I) Ltd.

Pantaloon Retail (India) Limited, is India’s leading retailer that operates multiple retail formats in both the value and lifestyle segment of the Indian consumer marker. Headquartered in Mumbai (Bombay), the company operates over 7 million square feet of retail space, has over 1000 outlets (including shop-in-shops) across 53 cities in India and employs over 25,000 people.

The company’s leading formats include Pantaloons, a chain of fashion outlets, Big Bazaar, a uniquely Indian hypermarket chain, Food Bazaar, a supermarket chain, blends the look, touch and feel of Indian bazaars with aspects of modern retail like choice, convenience and quality and Central, a chain of seamless destination malls. Some of its other formats include, Home Town, Depot, Shoe Factory, Brand Factory, Blue Sky, aLL, Top 10 and Star and Sitara.

Source : http://www.pantaloon.com

Wednesday, January 30, 2008

Cabela's posts Q4 2007 results, expects to open two stores

Cabela's Incorporated, the World's Foremost Outfitter of hunting, fishing, and outdoor gear, announced preliminary financial results for its fourth fiscal quarter and fiscal year ended December 29, 2007, as well as earnings guidance for fiscal 2008.

For the fourth quarter, Cabela's expects to report a 13.9% increase in total revenue, including a 3.3% increase in direct business revenue. Total retail store revenue is expected to increase 31.8%, including a 5.9% decline in same store sales. Diluted earnings per share for the fourth quarter are expected to be in the range of $0.83 to $0.85.

For full-year 2007, total revenue is expected to increase 13.9% over 2006, with a 3.9% increase in direct business revenue. Total retail store revenue is expected to increase 27.2%, with a 1.2% decline in same store sales. Diluted earnings per share for fiscal 2007 are expected to be in the range of $1.29 to $1.31.

The Company's fourth quarter results were primarily impacted by a challenging retail environment which negatively impacted the Company's same store sales and to a lesser extent the Company's direct business. Additionally, productivity of some new stores did not meet expectations.

During 2008, the Company intends to significantly slow retail expansion and focus on improving the profitability of its existing operations. The primary focus of the Company during the year will be to improve:

• advertising strategy by using more targeted campaigns throughout its multi-channel model;

• retail productivity and same store sales through enhanced product assortment, streamlined flow of merchandise to its stores and reduced operating expenses;

• merchandise planning by reallocating retail store space by department by season and reducing unproductive inventory; and

• inventory management through better leveraging its existing technologies.

The Company expects to open two stores in 2008. One location will open in the second quarter, and another in the third quarter. Current plans call for two additional locations to be opened in 2009.

As a result of the decision to slow retail expansion and concentrate on improving the Company's existing operations, the Company now anticipates earnings per share for 2008 will grow at a mid-single digit rate. For 2008, capital expenditures, including purchases of marketable securities, are expected to be $110 million, as compared to approximately $376 million in 2007.

"During the fourth quarter, our top line was impacted by an overall challenging consumer environment," said Dennis Highby, Cabela's President and Chief Executive Officer. "Part of our strategy involves an ongoing review of our previously planned store openings to reconfirm our expectations.

Based upon these ongoing reviews and current economic conditions, we will pare our store openings in 2008 to just two of the previously planned retail stores. We expect to fund the 2008 expansion from our recently completed $57 million senior note offering and cash flows from operations. We will continue to develop our next generation store format, which is intended to improve return on invested capital and better serve our retail customers."

"While our fourth quarter results did not meet our expectations, we remain encouraged about the opportunities that lie ahead and our ability to perform in this challenging retail climate. We have developed a number of strategic initiatives for 2008 aimed at improving profitability, and we remain focused on successful execution of our plan," Highby said.

The Company is scheduled to release final financial results for its fourth fiscal quarter and fiscal year ended December 29, 2007, after the close of the market on February 21, 2008. A conference call to discuss the results will be held at 4:30 p.m. ET that same afternoon. The call will be hosted by Dennis Highby, President and Chief Executive Officer; and Ralph Castner, Vice President and Chief Financial Officer.

Source : http://www.fibre2fashion.com

Friday, January 25, 2008

Retailers welcome Economic Stimulus Agreement

The National Retail Federation welcomed an agreement on economic stimulus legislation reached between the Bush Administration and House leaders.

“The proposal put forth is simple, targeted economic stimulus that will quickly put money into consumers’ pockets where it can boost economic growth by creating demand throughout all sectors of the economy,” NRF Senior Vice President for Government Relations Steve Pfister said.

“Given the financial stress that consumers will be under in the coming year, stimulus legislation is essential to the health of our nation’s economy and to the jobs that rely upon the strength of that economy.”

“We are heartened that congressional leaders in the House, working with the Administration, have set aside partisan differences and are working together to help the U.S. economy and American families,” Pfister said.

“We urge you to reach out to your counterparts in the Senate and quickly work through the details of this proposal so that economic stimulus legislation can be enacted and implemented as soon as possible.”

Pfister’s comments came in a letter to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif, and Minority Leader John Boehner, R-Ohio. Another letter encouraging the Senate to work quickly with the House was sent to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev, and Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky.

Pelosi, Boehner and Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson held a news conference this afternoon to announce that they had reached agreement on a stimulus package.

Under the agreement, individuals who pay taxes would receive checks of up to $600, working couples would receive up to $1,200 and couples with children would receive an additional $300 per child. Workers who make at least $3,000 but don’t pay income taxes would receive $300.

NRF is leading the retail industry’s efforts to convince the Bush Administration and Congress to enact economic stimulus legislation.

The NRF Board of Directors on January 15 unanimously passed a resolution calling for stimulus legislation that would put money into the pockets of consumers, and NRF on January 17 wrote to President Bush and congressional leaders to urge passage of stimulus legislation.

NRF’s action followed the Commerce Department’s January 15 announcement that retail sales for December (excluding automobiles, gas stations and restaurants) rose 1.7 percent unadjusted over 2006 and decreased 0.4 percent seasonally adjusted from November.

Combined November-December holiday sales increased 3 percent over 2006, which was the lowest increase since 2002, when holiday sales rose 1.3 percent.

NRF’s 2008 economic forecast, calling for a 3.5 percent increase in retail sales over 2007, the smallest since sales grew 3 percent in 2002, is based on the assumption that both the Federal Reserve and Congress would take action on economic stimulus.

Source : http://www.fibre2fashion.com

Wednesday, January 23, 2008

Textiles & clothing sector retail sales volume up

The volume of retail sales (i.e. excluding price effects) increased by 3.9% in November 2007 compared to November 2006. There was a monthly decrease of 0.6%. If Motor Trades are excluded the annual increase was 5.5% and the monthly change was -0.1%.

The value of retail sales increased by 6.2% in November 2007 compared to November 2006 and decreased by 0.2% in the month. However, if Motor Trades are excluded, the annual increase was 7.1% and the monthly change was +0.5%. October 2007 is the latest month for which final detailed figures are available.

The three-month August 2007 – October 2007 volume figures show that, compared with the three months ending July 2007:

• The largest increase in the volume of sales was in the Textiles and Clothing (+4.4%) sector.
• The largest decrease in the volume of sales was in the Electrical Goods (-5.9%) sector.

All figures in this release are trading day and seasonally adjusted. The seasonal factors are based on unadjusted indices up to June 2007.

Tuesday, January 22, 2008

Largest Retail Chain Store in United States Achieves Success With Demand Management Solutions from SAP

Demonstrating ongoing leadership in providing innovative solutions to retailers worldwide, SAP AG (NYSE: SAP) today announced that 7- Eleven, Inc. has extended its agreement for demand management solutions from SAP. The announcement was made at the National Retail Federation (NRF) 97th Annual Convention and Expo, being held in New York, NY, January 13-16.

As the largest chain store in the United States with close to 5,500 franchised and company-operated stores, 7-Eleven faces similar pricing and product availability challenges as other retailers. Demand management solutions from SAP better position 7-Eleven to make competitive decisions on pricing for its store products.

“Responding appropriately in today’s fast-paced environment is critical,” said Scott McCombs, senior director for merchandise intelligence, 7-Eleven. “We selected the business solution from SAP because it provides us with a way to make better decisions faster.”

Demand Management Solutions from SAP: Achieving a Retailer’s Needs

Demand management solutions from SAP enable retailers to achieve their financial objectives while delivering a credible, consistent and competitive shopping experience to their customers. With demand management solutions from SAP, customers can automate and use a unified demand approach that will create a best-run business.

“Retailers around the world are increasingly looking for demand management platforms to help them predict shopper behavior and improve financial performance across all the major retail workflows – from inventory to assortment planning to full lifecycle pricing,” said Scott Langdoc, VP of Research and Business Leader for IDC’s Global Retail Insights. “We expect nearly 80 percent of retailer application deals in 2008 will include demand management functionality.”

Based on the SAP NetWeaver® technology platform, the demand management solutions from SAP are designed to deliver end-to-end decision support for pricing, promotion and markdown business decisions. Retailers can strategically manage the full pricing lifecycle on an integrated and extensible technology platform.

“Retailers are faced with a complex environment where consumers are smarter and more demanding,” said Verlin Youd, senior vice president, Global Trading Industries, SAP AG. “Our retail experience has allowed SAP to provide retailers with solutions that address their current and future needs. Retailers that have embraced demand management solutions from SAP have seen a return on their investment within 12 months.”

SAP solutions for retailers can be seen at the NRF show, at booth number 1601.

About SAP® for Retail

SAP is the leading provider of application solutions for the retail industry. SAP helps retailers of all sizes to understand, anticipate and inspire their customers, employees and shareholders by delivering results. The SAP® for Retail solution portfolio provides specific solutions for retail companies in the food, fashion and hardlines businesses. The solution portfolio consists of building blocks that cover the areas of merchandising (including demand management - price, promotion and markdown optimization); store operations (including a portfolio of POS solutions); supply chain, finance and human resources. SAP allows companies to implement solutions in a step-by-step approach, and provides an easy, cost-effective means to connect information across the business. (Additional information at
http://www.sap.com/retail/.)

About SAP

SAP is the world’s leading provider of business software*. Today, more than 43,400 customers in more than 120 countries run SAP® applications—from distinct solutions addressing the needs of small businesses and midsize companies to suite offerings for global organizations. Powered by the SAP NetWeaver® technology platform to drive innovation and enable business change, SAP software helps enterprises of all sizes around the world improve customer relationships, enhance partner collaboration and create efficiencies across their supply chains and business operations. SAP solution portfolios support the unique business processes of more than 25 industries, including high tech, retail, financial services, healthcare and the public sector. With subsidiaries in more than 50 countries, the company is listed on several exchanges, including the Frankfurt stock exchange and NYSE under the symbol “SAP.”

Source : SAP

Monday, January 21, 2008

Carrefour Group announces an acquisition in Indonesia, reinforcing its leading position in the country

Carrefour Group has signed a Share Purchase Agreement on 21 January 2008 with PT Sigmantara Alfindo and Prime Horizon Pte. Ltd. to acquire a 75% majority stake in PT Alfa Retailindo Tbk, (“Alfa Retailindo”) for a total equity consideration of IDR 674bn (€49.3m).

Alfa Retailindo, a listed company on the Jakarta Stock Exchange, is a major perator in Indonesia, operating 29 stores across the country (with sales area comprised between 1000m² and 4000m²), of which 13 are located in Jakarta. Alfa Retailindo reported net sales in 2006 of IDR 3624bn (€265m).

With this acquisition, Carrefour Indonesia consolidates its position as a leading ood retailer in the country.

This acquisition forms part of Carrefour’s strategy to reinforce its presence in key growth markets through a locally adapted multi format approach.

Carrefour’s operations in Indonesia today consist of 37 hypermarkets (vs. 29 hypermarkets in 2006). Carrefour in Indonesia recorded €627m sales in 2006, and sales were up 14.4% over the first nine months of 2007.

Source :
Carrefour Group

Friday, January 18, 2008

Amazon.com Launches Indie & Art House Store with Actor, Director and Producer Jon Favreau as First ''Independent Voices'' Curator

With the film festival season well under way, Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) today launched its new Indie & Art House store at www.amazon.com/indies. This specialty store is a place where filmmakers and indie aficionados can preview, review and discuss independent works as well as gain insight into what's hot now in the indie and art house movie world. Additionally, actor, director, producer and CreateSpace member Jon Favreau has signed on to be the store's first Independent Voices curator. Favreau was selected based on his work in the independent film community, and will be offering reviews and recommendations on trailblazing and undiscovered independent films.

"Every year hundreds of great independent films are released, but fans still struggle to find the titles they long to see," said Peter Faricy, vice president of movies and music for Amazon.com. "The Amazon Indie & Art House store was created to be the ultimate destination for independent film lovers, where customers can not only find the titles they want, but also interact with a lively community of fellow indie movie fans. We're excited to bring to our customers the new Independent Voices feature and proud to have Jon Favreau be the first contributor."

"I'm excited to be a part of Amazon Independent Voices and to have the opportunity to shine the spotlight on well-deserving indie films," said Jon Favreau. "It's always a challenge for small films to connect with fans and moviegoers, but with the help of programs like Independent Voices we can make a difference and help generate excitement around these special movies."

Amazon.com's independent film selection has been rapidly growing over the years, thanks in part to the CreateSpace DVD on Demand service, which enables independent filmmakers to make their films available on Amazon.com and through other sales channels. The Amazon Indie & Art House store is launching with more than 25,000 films that span many genres, including action/adventure, comedy, drama, horror, martial arts and romance. The store also includes many popular customer interaction features, such as discussion forums, customer voting, IMDb film information, reviews and blogging as well as access to titles from Amazon Unbox, Amazon's digital video download service (www.amazon.com/unbox), where customers can rent or purchase international and art house films. Visit the new store at www.amazon.com/indies to browse Amazon.com's independent and art house film catalog.

About Amazon.com

Amazon.com, Inc., (NASDAQ:AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth's Biggest Selection. Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth's most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as health and personal care, jewelry and watches, gourmet food, sports and outdoors, apparel and accessories, books, music, DVDs, electronics and office, toys and baby, and home and garden.

Amazon and its affiliates operate websites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, and the Joyo Amazon websites at www.joyo.cn and
www.amazon.cn.

Source : http://www.amazon.com

Retailers ask President Bush to act quickly on Economic Stimulus

Following up on a resolution passed by the National Retail Federation Board of Directors earlier this week calling for legislation to stimulate the nation’s economy, NRF wrote to President Bush and both Democratic and Republican leaders of Congress asking for quick action.

“U.S. retailers, who are a bellwether for our nation’s changing economic climate, are greatly concerned about the softening of the U.S. economy,” NRF President and CEO Tracy Mullin said.

“2007 holiday sales were the weakest since 2002, and as the new year begins, consumer spending remains sluggish. Consumer spending represents 70 percent of the U.S. economy and has fueled our economy for the past decade.

We agree with economists who say the fastest way for a stimulus to enter the economy is through the consumer.”

“Quick enactment of legislation to put dollars back in consumers’ pockets would fuel consumer spending and create additional demand throughout all sectors of the nation’s economy,” Mullin wrote. “We believe such legislation could be the boost our economy needs to set it on an upward path once more.”

“Because it is so important to enact this legislation in a timely manner, we urge you to work with congressional leaders on a bipartisan basis to move a simple, targeted economic stimulus package as soon as possible.”

Mullin’s comments came in a letter to Bush delivered to the White House. Similar letters were sent to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif, and Minority Leader John Boehner, R-Ohio, and to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev, and Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky.

On Tuesday, the NRF Board unanimously adopted a resolution calling on Congress and the President to enact economic stimulus legislation as more than 18,500 retailers and vendors from around the globe met in New York City for NRF’s 97th Annual Convention.

The Board said NRF expects the nation’s economy will be under continued financial stress in 2008 as a result of high energy costs, fallout from the housing slump, and sluggish employment and income growth.

As with the Board’s resolution, letters called for economic stimulus legislation but did not endorse any specific legislation or proposal.

NRF’s action follows the Commerce Department’s announcement on Tuesday that retail sales for December (excluding automobiles, gas stations and restaurants) rose 1.7 percent unadjusted over 2006 and decreased 0.4 percent seasonally adjusted from November.

Combined November-December holiday sales increased 3 percent over 2006, which was the lowest increase since 2002, when holiday sales rose 1.3 percent.

On Monday, NRF issued its 2008 economic forecast, calling for a 3.5 percent increase in retail sales over 2007. That would be the smallest increase since 2002, when sales grew only 3 percent.

NRF Chief Economist Rosalind Wells said the forecast could only be reached if action is taken by both the Federal Reserve and Congress to stimulate the economy.

Source :
http://www.fibre2fashion.com

NRF Forecasts 3.5% Growth in Retail Sales for 2008

The National Retail Federation released its 2008 economic forecast today, predicting that retail industry sales (which exclude automobiles, gas stations, and restaurants) will increase 3.5 percent from last year. According to its quarterly Retail Sales Outlook report, released this morning at NRF’s 97th Annual Convention & EXPO, NRF expects the slow pace in sales growth to continue before picking up in the second half of the year.

“Consumers will be under financial stress from high energy costs, the fallout from the housing slump, and sluggish employment and income growth,” said NRF Chief Economist Rosalind Wells. “Shoppers will seek to pay down debt, spend more in line with income growth, and approach discretionary purchases with more restraint.”

While the outlook is somewhat reserved, Wells expects sluggish first half sales to eventually give way to stronger sales in the third and fourth quarters. NRF expects industry sales to increase 3.2 percent in the first half of the year followed by a 3.8 percent increase in the second half as economic conditions improve.

“Retailers will once again be forced to market to more practical consumers, many of whom will be looking to trade down,” said Wells. “Even areas of past high growth like luxury goods and online shopping will feel the pressure. In 2008, the challenges will be formidable for everyone.”

The National Retail Federation is the world's largest retail trade association, with membership that comprises all retail formats and channels of distribution including department, specialty, discount, catalog, Internet, independent stores, chain restaurants, drug stores and grocery stores as well as the industry's key trading partners of retail goods and services. NRF represents an industry with more than 1.6 million U.S. retail establishments, more than 24 million employees - about one in five American workers - and 2006 sales of $4.7 trillion. As the industry umbrella group, NRF also represents more than 100 state, national and international retail associations.
www.nrf.com

Source : http://www.nrf.com

L.L. Bean Number One in Customer Service, According to NRF Foundation/American Express Survey

Satisfaction guaranteed is a mantra many companies live by, but customers say that none demonstrate that practice more than specialty retailer L.L. Bean. According to the third annual NRF Foundation/American Express Customer Service Survey, L.L. Bean delivers the best customer service in all retail formats. Results were unveiled moments earlier today at the Annual Retail Industry Luncheon during the National Retail Federation’s Annual Convention & EXPO in New York City. L.L. Bean moved up from third place in 2006 to secure the number one spot this year.

The survey of 8,800 consumers and conducted by BIGresearch, found internet-only retailers landing top spots on the list, with Zappos.com coming in second, Amazon.com third, Overstock.com fourth and Newegg.com tenth. Other retailers who excel in customer service have both websites and physical stores or catalogs, with multichannel retailers Blair (#5), Lands’ End (#6), Coldwater Creek (#7), Nordstrom (#8) and Lane Bryant (#9) rounding out the top 10.

“Good customer service starts and ends with how the customer feels about their experience with a retailer,” said NRF Foundation Vice President Kathy Mance. “Retailers are especially challenged because of the multiple touch points that exist between the customer and their brand, but these companies have shown that great customer service does exist.”

In terms of customer service, shoppers say they expect the most from restaurants and specialty stores – which both rated 4.4 out of 5.0. Customers also have high expectations of department stores (4.1), drug stores (4.0), grocery (3.9), internet retailers (3.8) and membership warehouse clubs (3.7). Shoppers say they expect the least from discounters with a ranking of 3.4.

“Consumers who have a positive experience naturally spend more time and money in a store or shopping online,” said Glenda McNeal, senior vice-president, Retail and Emerging Industries, American Express Merchant Services. “Excellent service is of the greatest importance as retailers work to retain and build upon their customer base.”

About the Survey

The NRF Foundation/American Express 2007 Customer Service survey was designed to gauge consumer attitudes toward retailers’ customer service and to provide a listing of the top customer service retailers. The survey, which polled 8,877 consumers, was conducted by consumer marketing intelligence firm BIGresearch from September 4 - 11, 2007. The consumer poll has a margin of error of plus or minus 1.0 percent. Consumers answered the open ended question, "Which retailer delivers the best customer service? "In order to develop a fair comparison, regardless of a retailer's size or geographic coverage, the consumer survey responses were compared to each retailer's 2006 revenues to develop the overall rankings. The survey data and the process for selecting the winners were reviewed by Professor Martin P. Block, Ph.D., of Northwestern University.

American Express is a leading global payments, network, travel and banking company founded in 1850. Merchant Services is the merchant network of American Express, which acquires and maintains relationships with millions of merchants around the globe, which welcome American Express-branded Cards.

BIGresearch is a consumer market intelligence firm that provides unique consumer insights that are gathered online utilizing very large sample sizes. BIGresearch’s syndicated Consumer Intentions and Actions survey monitors the pulse of more than 7,000 consumers each month to empower its clients with unique insights for identifying opportunities in a fragmented and changing marketplace.

The NRF Foundation is the research and education arm of the National Retail Federation. A non-profit foundation created in 1981, the Foundation conducts industry research, develops education and workforce development programs, professional certification programs and promotes retailing as a career destination. The NRF Foundation benefits retailers, their associates and business partners and allies, and consumers in many ways. Research provides the basis for education about the industry and its importance to the economy, and provides industry and government leaders with an analysis of public policy decisions on consumers, retailers, and the economy. The Foundation’s education and career development efforts, including NRF University wired, encourage professional development and excellence in performance of retailing for associates and executives at all levels.

Source : National Retail Federation

Thursday, January 17, 2008

'Organizing for Cross-channel Retailing' released

As the internet becomes more influential, companies are grappling with the best ways to integrate multiple channels to maximize the customer experience and be more efficient, according to research released by Shop.org, the digital division of the National Retail Federation. The study was conducted by J.C. Williams Group and underwritten by Sterling Commerce.

The report, “Organizing for Cross-channel Retailing,” is the result of a six-month study that benchmarks and documents cross-channel organization design.

The study was based on individual interviews with retail executives in addition to round table workshops with executives.

According to the report, it is common for retailers to have completely separate online operations with their own marketing, merchandising and fulfillment capabilities.

Many retailers with this independent structure have seen tremendous growth and profitable returns. However, the study noted that, over time, a lack of integration results in inefficiencies and customer confusion.

While there are numerous roadblocks to the creation of fully integrated cross-channel retail business, the study concludes that cross-channel success will be most likely when it becomes a top-down mandate.

Although the research is expected to revive a discussion over the best way to organize a company to leverage the Internet, the report concludes that there is no one-size-fits-all model for retailers to follow.

“Integrating the operations of stores and websites will undoubtedly lead to greater customer satisfaction, but it is not an easy road,” said Jim Okamura, Senior Partner at J.C. Williams Group, which conducted the study for Shop.org.

“The first retailers to accomplish this structural change successfully will achieve a competitive advantage and will quickly be followed by other companies looking to duplicate that accomplishment.”

The findings of this report will be discussed in more detail during a session from 1:45-2:45 p.m. during NRF’s Annual Convention & EXPO at the Javits Center in New York City.

During the session, “Cross-Channel Retailing: Organizing for the Future,” Borders executives Kevin Ertell, Vice President of e-Business, and Rob Gruen, Executive Vice President of Merchandising and Marketing, will discuss Borders’ cross-channel strategy as well as its challenges and potential rewards.

"It’s time to stop thinking about 'online retail,' as its own world and start thinking about it as part of the overall retail industry because they are serving the same customers," said Scott Silverman, Executive Director of Shop.org.

“It may take another generation of retail leaders, however, before companies are able to best capitalize on the strengths of multiple channels from streamlining their organizational structure.”

J.C. Williams Group is a boutique retail-consulting firm with recognition in the fields of strategic planning, retail branding, research, technology, and multi-channel retailing.

With offices in Chicago, Toronto and Montreal, J.C. Williams Group provides practical, creative, and in-depth knowledge of retailing.

Internationally, the firm is a member of The Ebeltoft Group an international consortium of retail consulting firms.

Source :
Fibre2fashion.com

Dubai Shopping Festival with full stock of fashion & jewelleries

Al Bustan Centre and Residence - a deluxe property which offers world-class services and facilities in the city – is providing a rewarding shopping experience to residents and shoppers during the forthcoming Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF).

The property has already lined-up many attractive activities, tempting and special promotions, bargain deals and products during the shopping bonanza that are too irresistible to miss.

The shops have been stocked up with the latest in fashion, accessories, jewelleries, cosmetics, perfumes and much more. Thus shoppers will get endless opportunities to win a range of prizes everyday for 32 days of the festival.

One of the major DSF 2008 activities that the property is holding is the grand Nissan raffle, where customers get the chance to win the full range of the latest Nissan models, by spending Dh250 at any outlet of Al Bustan Centre and Residence.

Moussa El Hayek, the Chief Operating Officer of Al Bustan Centre & Residence, enthusiastically noted: “Be part of this mega event and win big with our special DSF promotions.

The bundle of discounts we are offering demonstrate our commitment to our valued customers. We have a great selection of products which are being sold at best prices in the city.

Thus we hope that visitors to our property will not only enjoy the festive spirit but the great deals at all our outlets.”

Moussa concluded as customers would avail themselves of fantastic deals on a wide variety of products from some of the best international brands the property once again hopes to receive a huge response from residents and visitors during the DSF 2008 edition.

Meanwhile, the property has shown unwavering commitment to support the two big festivals, DSF and DSS, in a bid to promote Dubai as one of the best shopping destinations in the world.

The property develops entertaining programmes to create a unique shopping experience for the benefit of customers who come to stay at the property from across the globe.

Source : Fibre2fashion.com

Wednesday, January 16, 2008

Aftershock store welcomed at Muscat City Centre, Oman

MUSCAT Aftershock, the UK's leading women's evening wear, daywear and accessories designer, has opened its flagship store at the Muscat City Centre, coinciding with the store's launch of its Autumn-Winter Collection for 2007-08.

Aftershock is the UK's leading designer, retailer and manufacturer of exquisite and intricately beaded ladies fashion and accessories, bringing in the concept of 'affordable glamour' to women around the world.

Aftershock, the store that epitomises feminity and beauty was first launched in the UAE, following the brand's success in the European and American fashion markets. Steven Hubbard, general manager, Landmark International said: "The flagship store at Muscat City Centre personifies the attributes of Aftershock – innovative, stylish and affordable. We are excited about expanding this brand to Oman – it means we are able to bring even more elegant designs to the woman who not only wants to stand out from the crowd, but seeks to create her own distinct style."

With the start of Ramadan and the approach of the festive season, Aftershock introduces a new Autumn-Winter Collection that combines glamour, exclusivity and the latest fashion trends accented in rich hues that symbolise the changing seasons.

Landmark International (LMI), Aftershock's partner and Middle East franchisee, is a division of the popular UAE based Landmark Group and has an established retailing presence through its Centrepoint, Home Centre, Emax & Max brands in Oman. LMI is spearheading Landmark Group's next expansion stage, sourcing, securing and rolling-out internationally successful fashion and lifestyle brands in the Middle East and India.

About Aftershock Retail

Aftershock is the UK's leading designer, retailer and manufacturer of exquisite and intricately beaded ladies wear and accessories.

Source : Aftershock Designer, Retailer and Manufacturer

Shop.org, J.C. Williams Group Research Sparks Debate Over Retail Organizational Design

As the internet becomes more influential, companies are grappling with the best ways to integrate multiple channels to maximize the customer experience and be more efficient, according to research released today by Shop.org, the digital division of the National Retail Federation. The study was conducted by J.C. Williams Group and underwritten by Sterling Commerce.

The report, “Organizing for Cross-channel Retailing,” is the result of a six-month study that benchmarks and documents cross-channel organization design. The study was based on individual interviews with retail executives in addition to round table workshops with executives.

According to the report, it is common for retailers to have completely separate online operations with their own marketing, merchandising and fulfillment capabilities. Many retailers with this independent structure have seen tremendous growth and profitable returns. However, the study noted that, over time, a lack of integration results in inefficiencies and customer confusion. While there are numerous roadblocks to the creation of fully integrated cross-channel retail business, the study concludes that cross-channel success will be most likely when it becomes a top-down mandate.

Although the research is expected to revive a discussion over the best way to organize a company to leverage the Internet, the report concludes that there is no one-size-fits-all model for retailers to follow.

“Integrating the operations of stores and websites will undoubtedly lead to greater customer satisfaction, but it is not an easy road,” said Jim Okamura, Senior Partner at J.C. Williams Group, which conducted the study for Shop.org. “The first retailers to accomplish this structural change successfully will achieve a competitive advantage and will quickly be followed by other companies looking to duplicate that accomplishment.”

The findings of this report will be discussed in more detail during a session from 1:45-2:45 p.m. today during NRF’s Annual Convention & EXPO at the Javits Center in New York City.

During the session, “Cross-Channel Retailing: Organizing for the Future,” Borders executives Kevin Ertell, Vice President of e-Business, and Rob Gruen, Executive Vice President of Merchandising and Marketing, will discuss Borders’ cross-channel strategy as well as its challenges and potential rewards.

"It’s time to stop thinking about 'online retail,' as its own world and start thinking about it as part of the overall retail industry because they are serving the same customers," said Scott Silverman, Executive Director of Shop.org. “It may take another generation of retail leaders, however, before companies are able to best capitalize on the strengths of multiple channels from streamlining their organizational structure.”

J.C. Williams Group (www.jcwg.com ) is a boutique retail-consulting firm with recognition in the fields of strategic planning, retail branding, research, technology, and multi-channel retailing. With offices in Chicago, Toronto and Montreal, J.C. Williams Group provides practical, creative, and in-depth knowledge of retailing. Internationally, the firm is a member of The Ebeltoft Group (www.ebeltoftgroup.com ), an international consortium of retail consulting firms.

Source :
National Retail Federation

Friday, January 11, 2008

Marks & Spencer Stores Across The South West To Start Carrier Bag Charging Trial

Marks & Spencer stores across the South West of England are to start the first phase of a two-part carrier bag charging trial, aimed at encouraging customers to significantly reduce the number of carrier bags they use, this week.

For four weeks, from Sunday 6th January, customers shopping in 35 M&S stores across Cornwall, Dorset, Somerset, Gloucestershire and Devon will receive a free M&S ‘Bag for Life’ (usual cost 10p) with every food transaction.

Then from Sunday 3rd February, a 5p charge will be introduced for standard food carrier bags.* The ‘Bag for Life’ will revert to its usual 10p cost and will be replaced free of charge when worn out. All profits raised from the sale of the standard food carrier bags will be donated to the charity Groundwork UK and invested in local environmental regeneration projects.

Sarah Miller, M&S General Manager in the South West said: “Since we announced our intention to trial charging for carriers in the South West, feedback has been very positive with customers telling us that they are ready to break the habit of using too many bags.

“We hope that the trial will encourage us all to think about the number of carrier bags we are using and make the effort to reduce, reuse and recycle whenever we can. This is why we are starting by giving all of our customers a free Bag for Life over the next four weeks.”

The South West trial follows a successful period of charging 5p per bag in M&S’ Northern Ireland stores which, in the first 16 weeks, saw a 66% reduction in the number of carriers used, with three quarters of M&S customers choosing to use an alternative to the standard M&S food carrier bag each time they shopped. In the same time period, the trial raised over £40,000 for Groundwork Northern Ireland.

From January 2008, M&S stores in the South West will be also the first in the country to trial using standard food carrier bags made from 100% recycled post consumer waste.

Both trials are part of M&S’ Plan A commitments to reduce carrier bag usage by a third and send no waste to landfill by 2012. Plan A, M&S’ business wide, £200 million ‘eco-plan’, was launched in January 2007.

M&S stores included in the new trial area are: Avon Meads, Barnstaple, Bath, Bournemouth, Bristol, Castlepoint, Cheltenham, Christchurch, Cirencester, Cribbs Causeway, Dartmouth, Dorchester, Exeter, Falmouth, Frome, Gloucester, Harbourside, Hayle, Honiton, Kingsditch, M5 Exeter Services, Newton Abbot, Plymouth, Plymouth Crownhill, Poole, Taunton, Tewkesbury, Tiverton, Torbay, Torquay, Truro Lemon Quay, Westbourne, Weston-Super-Mare, Weymouth, and Yeovil.

Source : Marks and Spencer plc

Marks And Spencer Group Plc Quarter 3 2007/08 - Interim Management Statement 13 weeks to 29 December 2007

Marks And Spencer Group Plc Quarter 3 2007/08 - Interim Management Statement 13 weeks to 29 December 2007

- Group sales up 2.8%
- UK sales up 2.0%: General Merchandise - 0.7%(1); Food +5.1%
- UK like for like sales -2.2%: General Merchandise -3.2%; Food -1.5%
- International sales up 15.1%

Sir Stuart Rose, Chief Executive said:

“Market conditions became more challenging through November and December. We continued to drive footfall, and volume growth in General Merchandise was strong at 5%. Price deflation was 6%, reflecting our continued focus on offering customers better values. We held market share in General Merchandise at 10.6%(2) and in Food at 4.3%(3).

“We did not discount in the run up to Christmas. Stock levels were well controlled over the period. We had a strong start to the Christmas Sale and sale stocks have now cleared.

“Direct was strong, with sales from our website up 78%, reflecting further growth in customer numbers, transactions and conversion. International also performed well with sales up 15.1% over the period.

“We expect trading conditions to remain tough throughout 2008. We are well positioned with a strong product offer and better than ever values across our business. We now have 70% of our stores in the modernised format and a strong pipeline of new space for 2008 and beyond. Direct and International continue to make good progress.”

Since 6 November we have repurchased 1.18% of our shares in issue at a cost of £124.8m.

Marks and Spencer Group plc will report its 2007/08 Preliminary results and Q4 trading for the 13 weeks to 29 March 2008 on 20 May 2008.

(1) Clothing -1.2%; Home +3.2%
(2) Clothing market share: TNS Worldpanel Fashion: 12 weeks ending 11 Nov 2007
(3) Food market share: Superpanel, Food & drink: 12 weeks ending 2 Dec 2007

Source : Marks and Spencer plc

Target Retail Declares Regular Quarterly Dividend

The board of directors of Target Corporation (NYSE:TGT) has declared a quarterly dividend of 14 cents per common share. The dividend is payable March 10 to shareholders of record February 20, 2008. The first quarter dividend will be the company's 162nd consecutive dividend paid since October 1967 when the company became publicly held.

About Target

Target Corporation's operations include large, general merchandise discount stores and a fully integrated on-line business through which we offer a fun and convenient shopping experience with thousands of highly differentiated and affordably priced items. The company currently operates 1,591 Target stores in 47 states. Target Corporation news releases are available at
www.target.com.

Source: Target Corporation

Thursday, January 10, 2008

Shop, NRF Div appoints new executive committee for BoDs

Shop.org, the digital division of the National Retail Federation, has appointed a new executive committee for its Board of Directors, including a new Chairman and Vice Chairman.

Richard Last, Vice President, New Business Development – jcp.com, JCPenney, becomes Shop.org's new Chairman. Last had previously served as Shop.org’s Vice Chairman.

Last takes over for Elaine Rubin, President, Ekrubin Inc, who had been Chairman for the past eight years and was recently awarded the prestigious NRF Silver Anvil Award for her service.

Rubin, a co-founder of Shop.org, will continue to serve as a Shop.org Board member. Patti Freeman Evans, Senior Analyst, Retail, JupiterResearch, will fill the Vice Chairman role.

“Shop.org is fortunate to have such talented and committed leadership,” said Scott Silverman, Executive Director of Shop.org. “The members of Shop.org’s executive committee make the perfect team to help Shop.org fulfill its vision and mission.”

In addition to Last and Freeman Evans, Troy Brown, Senior Director and General Manager, Timberland.com and Kelly Mooney, President, Chief Experience Officer and Partner, Resource Interactive were appointed to Shop.org’s four-person executive committee.

The Executive Committee is selected from Shop.org’s 17-person Board of Directors, which is elected by the Shop.org membership.

“I am and excited and honored to become Shop.org’s next Chairman,” said Last. “Thanks to the strong leadership and vision of Elaine Rubin, Shop.org has never been stronger and has a bright future as the world’s leading membership community for digital retail.

I look forward to working with the new executive committee and the rest of the Board of Directors to serve the Shop.org membership.”

"I am thrilled that Rich has agreed to step into the role of Shop.org's Chairman," said Rubin.

"He is an experienced leader who has been on the Board for six years, is as passionate about Shop.org as I am and has been instrumental in developing our strategy and future direction for the organization.

The Shop.org community will be well served by Rich's leadership skills and strategic thinking."

The next Shop.org Board of Directors meeting will be held January 22 at the Shop.org Strategy and Innovation Forum in Orlando.

Source :
Fibre2fashion.com

Renowned Retail Design Firms to Gather at NRF’s DESiGN STUDiO During Annual Convention

During NRF’s BIG Show next week, attendees will be able to meet the people behind some of the world’s most well-known retail store designs. The NRF DESiGN STUDiO provides a unique opportunity where creative minds and retail design firms can come together to share expertise, talents and ideas. The STUDiO will be open Monday, January 14 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Tuesday, January 15, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in conjunction with NRF’s Annual Convention and EXPO at the Jacob Javits Center in New York City.

“We’ve gathered the best and the brightest in retail store design and have placed them in one central location to share their insights,” said Daniel Butler, NRF Vice President of Merchandising and Retail Operations. “The STUDiO is a one-of-a-kind experience where retailers can network with design firms and leave with a holistic understanding of the creative store design process.”

Laid out like a gallery, the center of the DESiGN STUDiO serves as a “Design Genius Bar” where brainstorming sessions will take place. It will also highlight special tools and interactive features to enable participants to gain an understanding of design, branding and visual merchandise. The surrounding area is where the design firms and their executives will be representing their firm and displaying past projects.

The STUDiO will feature more than 10 design firms including: api+, Bergmeyer, Design Forum, FRCH Design Worldwide, Graj + Gustavsen, GRID2, Hybridia Design, JGA, Little, Miller Zell, RYA Design Consultancy and Watt International.

NRF’s STUDiO was designed in partnership with Watt International by Jean-Paul Morresi and Matt DeAbreu.

Educational sessions and book signings will also take place within the STUDiO throughout the two days it is open. Sessions include:

An Innovator’s Perspective on Design

Monday, January 14, 10:45 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Italian-born and international award-winning architect Giorgio Borruso, Principle of his name-sake design firm, will discuss some of his most famous projects and share his perspective on design
Speaker: Giorgio Borruso, Principle, Giorgio Borruso Design

The Value of Design

Monday, January 14, 11:45 a.m – 12:30 p.m.
Hear from Brian Dyches of Watt International who will discuss how proper store design can be one of the best returns on investment a company could make

Speaker: Brian Dyches, Vice President Consumer and Market Strategy, Watt International

Brandjam: Humanizing Brands Through Emotional Design

Tuesday, January 15, 10:45 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Author and executive Marc Gobe will reveal strategies behind his successful use of emotional branding through store design and will explain the meaning behind the phrase “brand ambassador”

Speaker: Marc Gobe, President, CEO and Executive Creative Director, Desgrippes Gobe

Design Thinking: The Next Competitive Advantage

Tuesday, January 15, 3:45 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Two fundamental kinds of thinking co-exist and often collide in business organizations: analytical thinking and design thinking. Guests at this session will learn the differences.

Speaker: Roger Martin, Dean, Rotman School of Management, University of Toronto

A Greener L.L. Bean

Tuesday, January 15, 2:45 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
L.L. Bean’s Ken Kacere and Bergmeyer Associates’ Joe Nevin will discuss L.L. Bean’s commitment to the environment as they embark on the expansion of their outdoor lifestyle store.

Speaker(s): Joseph Nevin, Jr., Senior Principal, Bergmeyer Associates; Ken Kacere, Senior Vice President, Retail Stores, L.L. Bean

Source : National Retail Federation

Friday, January 4, 2008

Information of Lifestyle International (P). Ltd

Here is the information of Lifestyle International (P). Ltd company profile and head office details.

Lifestyle International (P). Ltd Company Profile :

Lifestyle is part of the Landmark Group, a Dubai-based retail chain. With over 30 years’ experience in retailing, the Group has become the foremost retailer in the Gulf. Positioned as a trendy, youthful and vibrant brand that offers customers a wide variety of merchandise at exceptional value for money, Lifestyle began operations in 1998 with its first store in Chennai in 1999 and now has 12 Lifestyle stores, 5 Home Centres and 1 Babyshop store across Chennai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Gurgaon, Delhi, Mumbai and Ahmedabad.

Business World-IMRB Most Respected Company Awards Survey has rated Lifestyle as the Most Respected Company in the Retail Sector in 2003 and 2004. Lifestyle has also been awarded the ICICI-KSA Technopak Award for Retail Excellence in 2005, the Reid & Taylor Retailer of the Year Award for 2006 and more recently, the Lycra Images Fashion Award for the Most Admired Large Format Retailer of the Year in 2006.

Lifestyle International (P). Ltd

Head Office Contact Detail :

Sigma Soft Tech Park,
7th & 8th Floor, Delta Tower,
#7 Whitefield Main Road,
Bangalore - 560 066,
India

Contact Person :
Tel : +91 80 4179 6565
Fax : +91 80 4125 8349
E-mail :
feedback@lifestylestores.com
Website : http://www.lifestylestores.com

Source : Lifestyle International (P). Ltd

Information of Pantaloon Retail (India) Limited

Here is the information of Pantaloon Retail (India) Limited company profile and head office details.

Pantaloon Retail (India) Limited Company Profile :

Pantaloon Retail (India) Limited, is India’s leading retailer that operates multiple retail formats in both the value and lifestyle segment of the Indian consumer marker. Headquartered in Mumbai (Bombay), the company operates over 7 million square feet of retail space, has over 1000 stores across 51 cities in India and employs over 24,000 people.

The company’s leading formats include Pantaloons, a chain of fashion outlets, Big Bazaar, a uniquely Indian hypermarket chain, Food Bazaar, a supermarket chain, blends the look, touch and feel of Indian bazaars with aspects of modern retail like choice, convenience and quality and Central, a chain of seamless destination malls. Some of its other formats include, Depot, Shoe Factory, Brand Factory, Blue Sky, Fashion Station, aLL, Top 10, mBazaar and Star and Sitara. The company also operates an online portal, futurebazaar.com.

A subsdiary company, Home Solutions Retail (India) Limited, operates Home Town, a large-format home solutions store, Collection i, selling home furniture products and E-Zone focussed on caterng to the consumer electronics segment.

Pantaloon Retail was recently awarded the International Retailer of the Year 2007 by the US-based National Retail Federation (NRF) and the Emerging Market Retailer of the Year 2007 at the World Retail Congress held in Barcelona.

Pantaloon Retail is the flagship company of Future Group, a business group catering to the entire Indian consumption space.

Pantaloon Retail (India) Limited

Head Office Contact Detail :

Knowledge House, Shyam Nagar,
Off Jogeshwari-Vikhroli Link Road,
Jogeshwari (East), Mumbai 400 060
India.

Contact Person : Atul Takle - Head Communications
Tel : 91 22 66442200 - 6753 1400
Fax : 91 22 6644 2222
Email : atul.takle@pantaloon.com

Source : Pantaloon Retail (India) Limited

Thursday, January 3, 2008

Get Great deals at Bata this December


Bata India Limited, the largest footwear retailer and a leader in the footwear industry in India today announced the launch of the December Delight, a special promotion which will be available in all Bata Shoe Stores across India from the 3rd of December 2007 till the 30th of December 2007.



Under the promotion, customers can get great deals on every pair of footwear that they buy at any Bata Shoe Store across India. On the 1st pair, they are eligible to participate in a lucky draw through which they can win a LCD TV everyday during the promotion. Also, they can avail 20% and 30% discount on the 2nd and 3rd pair of footwear bought, respectively on any one bill.

Announcing this, Mr. Manoj Chandra, VP - Marketing & Customer Service, Bata India said, “December Delight is our special way of rewarding our customers during this festive season and we hope this promotion will help in endearing the Bata brand even more with customers across India.”

To register for the lucky draw for the LCD TV, the customer needs to send a SMS to 56677 from their mobiles by typing “BATA” “cash memo”.

Source : Bata India Limited