By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief Photo by Arnaud Denise Saks Global has finalized its acquisition of the Neiman Marcus Group (NMG) in a transaction valued at $2.7 billion, consolidating some of the most prestigious names in luxury retail under one corporate umbrella. The combined portfolio now includes Neiman Marcus, Bergdorf Goodman, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Saks OFF 5TH. … [Read more...] about Luxury Market Shakeup as Saks Acquires Neiman Marcus
Department Stores
Care Bears Bring The Love To Global Partnership With MINISO
By Gary Symons TLL Editor inChief MINISO, the China-based retailer known for its trendy and affordable products, has announced a global partnership with Care Bears. The collaboration is set to enchant fans worldwide with an expansive Care Bears-themed product line, adding a sprinkle of nostalgia and joy to MINISO's offerings. Care Bears from Cloudco is, of course, a … [Read more...] about Care Bears Bring The Love To Global Partnership With MINISO
Latest Data Predicts a Not So Merry Xmas For Toys, Retail
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief The licensing industry should lower expectations for the coming holiday season, as retail sales fell slightly in October, and toy sales are down overall. The US Commerce Department reported retail sales fell slightly in October by 0.1%. That's not great, but the good news is that economists were expecting a greater decline, based on … [Read more...] about Latest Data Predicts a Not So Merry Xmas For Toys, Retail
Travis Kelce Scores With Frozen BBQ Meal Entrees at Walmart
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief Kansas City Chief's star tight end Travis Kelce—aka Taylor Swift's boyfriend—has a new line of frozen BBQ dinners at Walmart. Kelce is said to love Kansas City barbecue almost as much as certain pop stars, as it's rumored he can often be found at Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que enjoying the burnt ends or meat-packed Z-Man … [Read more...] about Travis Kelce Scores With Frozen BBQ Meal Entrees at Walmart
JCPenney Launching Mexican Cookery Set With Chef Jenny Martinez
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief The retail chain JCPenney is offering a new collection of Mexican-inspired cookware developed in partnership with chef Jenny Martinez. The affordable new collection, called Mesa Mia is now available in JCPenney stores and online. “JCPenney is more than a department store for me,” Martinez said. “Growing up, my mom would always take us … [Read more...] about JCPenney Launching Mexican Cookery Set With Chef Jenny Martinez
Macy’s to Offer New Collection From Gap in First Ever Collaboration
By Allison Watkinson TLL Reporter Macy’s and Gap are launching an exclusive new collection of sleepwear, underwear and intimates in the companies' first collaboration. “We are thrilled to launch this collection of Gap sleepwear and intimates exclusively at Macy’s and to extend our customer reach,” said Gap president, Adrienne Gernand. “This launch is an opportunity to … [Read more...] about Macy’s to Offer New Collection From Gap in First Ever Collaboration
Who’s News: Macy’s Names Massimo (Max) Magni As Chief Customer and Digital Officer
By Allison WatkinsonTLL ReporterMacy’s, Inc. has announced the appointment of Massimo (Max) Magni as its new chief customer and digital officer. Founded in 1858, Macy's Inc. is a U.S. department store chain that currently operates an extensive ecommerce business alongside numerous brick-and-mortar retail locations across the country. In his new role at Macy's, Magni will guide … [Read more...] about Who’s News: Macy’s Names Massimo (Max) Magni As Chief Customer and Digital Officer
Afro Unicorn Secures a Magical Licensing Partnership
By Allison Watkinson TLL Reporter The apparel and accessories brand Afro Unicorn has secured Magical Beauty, LLC as a new global licensing partner. Afro Unicorn is a fully-licensed character brand created by CEO and entrepreneur April Showers with the mission to increase representation and self-esteem for women and children of color. “I am extremely proud of what Afro … [Read more...] about Afro Unicorn Secures a Magical Licensing Partnership
Marks & Spencer Pilots Virtual ‘Try-On’ Technology From Zyler
The UK retail chain Marks & Spencer has debuted a new technology allowing users to virtually try on clothing. The new tech was developed by partner Zyler, and has been rolled out in Marks & Spencers outlets in Oxford Circus and Harrogate, both in London. The feature was trialed with the clothing brand Jaeger. "The introduction of this technology provides a … [Read more...] about Marks & Spencer Pilots Virtual ‘Try-On’ Technology From Zyler
Retail Trends: Christmas a Bit Less Merry in 2022
NPD Report Says Wary Consumers to Reduce Holiday Spending By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief The NPD Group predicts that Christmas stockings will be a little less full, and the stack of presents under the tree a touch smaller this year. The NPD's annual report on retail, 2022 US Holiday Purchase Intentions, says consumers generally plan to spend less this year than in … [Read more...] about Retail Trends: Christmas a Bit Less Merry in 2022