What to Watch in 2011-UPDATE

Last week we wrote about some big changes to watch out for in this new year and as retail can be ever-changing there are a few updates to keep you informed.

1. Barney's continues to undergo changes as the company now has a new creative director, Dennis Freedman, who will be responsible for the company's overall creative direction. The well known Simon Doonan, a celebrity in his own right and the former creative director, will remain as a creative ambassador-at-large and will continue to be a media spokesperson and for the company and contribute to the creation of special window projects, host special events and serve as an ambassador to all creative and communication areas inclusive of social media.

2. JCrew's deadline has come and gone. Last week the $2.68 billion offer that would help JCrew go private expired. The mastermind behind the revitalization of JCrew several years ago, Mickey Drexler, appears to be unwilling to work for someone new and wants to continue to work for TPG Captial who owned the retailer before it went public in 2006. Now that an agreement has not been made it remains open for other parties of interest to possibly make bids. Some companies that could flirt with an offer could be the local Sears Holding Corp or even Urban Outfitters Inc.


3. Target to expand into Canada.Target is looking to expand into Canada by opening 100 to 150 stores in 2013 and 2014. The retailer has a $1.84 billion deal with the retailer Zeller's to take over up to 220 of its stores. Target is optimistic about the expansion and industry experts believe that Target's formula will be well received in Canada. Target could also potentially lease out some of the stores to other US retailers looking to expand into the new market. In addition the retailer will be adjusting its merchandising strategy to fit the smaller store spaces of the Zeller's stores but maintains that they will continue to have the depth and breadth that is traditionally expected by the consumer.

There will certainly be more to come given the constant transformation of the retail industry.

To read the original article please click on the below.

What to Watch in 2011