Kohl’s Q4 Earnings Top Wall Street Targets

Kohl’s Inc. reported a small decline in earnings in the fourth quarter on flat same-store sales but both EPS and sales exceeded Wall Street’s targets. Michelle Gass, Kohl’s CEO, said, “We are encouraged by the acceleration of traffic and new customer acquisition in our stores and online driven by the unprecedented level of new brands and partnerships we launched during the year.”

Coronavirus Threatens U.S. Mall Traffic

According to a survey from Coresight Research, nearly three-quarters of U.S. consumers would stay away from malls or shopping centers if the coronavirus outbreak worsens in the U.S.

Foot Locker Q4 Comps Slide 1.6 Percent

Foot Locker Inc. saw fourth-quarter earnings that topped Wall Street’s consensus target but same-store sales were down 1.6  percent and were below expectations. Dick Johnson, CEO, said, “While we had leading positions in key on-trend footwear styles, this was not enough to offset softer than expected demand during the compressed holiday season, a very promotional marketplace for apparel, and tougher launch comparisons.”

Nike Exec Josh Simon Joins Netflix

Josh Simon, most recently as VP and head of global strategy for product, design, merchandising and categories at Nike, has been appointed VP of consumer products for Netflix, according to a report from Variety.

Modell’s Saves Two More Stores From Closure

Modell’s Sporting Goods said two more stores in Manhattan – located at 150 and 280 Broadway – will not be closing as planned due to negotiations with landlords, according to a Bloomberg report. The spared stores bring Modell’s planned closings to 17.