NRF Chief Economist to Transition to Senior Economic Advisor

The National Retail Federation announced that Jack Kleinhenz, NRF’s chief economist since 2010, is stepping down to serve in a new capacity as senior economic advisor. NRF Executive Director of Research Mark Mathews ill become NRF’s new chief economist while continuing to lead the research team.

Lululemon Opens First Store in Italy

Located at Vittorio Emanuele II 24/28, the store spans roughly 5,700 square feet across two floors and officially opens July 19. The store’s product line supports yoga, running, training, tennis, and golf.

June Retail Sales Top Expectations

Retail sales rose a better-than-expected 0.6 percent in June versus May, the Commerce Department reported, after two consecutive months of spending declines. June’s number topped the 0.2 percent gain economists projected in a FactSet poll. 

NRF’s Chief Economist Transitions to Senior Economic Advisor

The National Retail Federation announced on Thursday, July 17, that Jack Kleinhenz, NRF’s chief economist since 2010, is stepping down to serve in a new capacity as senior economic advisor. NRF Executive Director of Research Mark Mathews will become NRF’s new chief economist while continuing to lead the research team.

Saks Global Appoints CFO

Saks Global appointed Brandy Richardson, formerly at Tailored Brands and Neiman Marcus, as chief financial officer, effective August 18.

Kohl’s Appoints JD Sports Exec as Chief Digital Officer

Arianne Parisi, most recently chief digital officer for JD Sports Fashion Plc, has been named the retailer’s chief digital officer. Starting on July 28, Parisi will join the company’s executive leadership team and report directly to Interim CEO Michael Bender.