Harry & David Files for Chapter 11 Protection In a move that many retail watchers had expected, Harry & David Holdings Corp. filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the U.S. District Court of Delaware. The company said it filed with a plan to reorganize that's already been blessed -- and more importantly funded -- by the owners of the majority of its senior notes. The move allows the company to eliminate much of its debt, along with continuing operations as its moves forward with reorganization, Harry & David reported.
Oregon Live
Winn-Dixie Making 'Fresh & Local' a RealityJacksonville, Fla.-based supermarket chain, Winn-Dixie, has a glitzy new prototype store, an upscale and eye-popping showcase for everything from locally sourced foods to gluten-free and specialized dietary offerings. The stores have been a hit with consumers by showcasing Winn-Dixie's "Fresh & Local" market image and expanded "fresh" departments that offer "locally grown produce and other products local to the area," according to the company. In fiscal 2011, the chain plans to remodel 22 stores, 17 of which will closely resemble the Covington and Margate stores, and plans to open two new stores.
Drug Store News
Whole Foods Tests Bars Selling Craft Beer and Local Wine in Its StoresThe upscale grocer, as well-known for its sensory-filled shopping as its often-pricey foods, is opening bars that serve craft beer and local wine in more than a dozen stores nationally in a test before a wider roll-out. In the past 18 months, small, locally focused bars have opened inside five Whole Foods Markets in California, and two each in Arizona, Illinois and Texas, among others. Earlier this month, it opened one inside its chi-chi flagship store in Austin. By 2012, the 305-store chain plans to open at least seven more bars - even one in Hawaii, says co-CEO Walter Robb.
USA Today
Mobile Barcodes Come to The Home DepotDo-it-yourselfers will now be able to do more product research by themselves as well, now that The Home Depot is bringing mobile barcodes to its shelves. The DIY retailer has partnered with Scanbuy to include the codes in store, in print ads and signage. The codes, when activated, will let shoppers access how-to videos, product demos, relevant accessories, buying guides, project guides and give them the ability to buy items online. When activated outside the store, the codes will also let consumers make purchases through their mobile device with a "buy button."
Mashable
More Shoplifters Being Caught at Newton WalmartPeople with an urge to leave the Newton Walmart with a little extra something hiding in their pocket or purse might think twice. The store's loss prevention program seems to be on the move in recent months. In what appears to be a growing trend, reported thefts at the Newton outlet between Jan 1. and Feb 28 of this year totaled 13 separate incidents. During that same time period in 2010 only one theft was recorded.
Newton Daily News
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