Retail briefs

By Staff -- Home Textiles Today, 5/31/2004 12:00:00 AM

Saks to open Proffitt's in Birmingham

Retailer Saks Incorporated plans to open its first Proffitt's store in the Birmingham trade area, to be located in the Riverchase Galleria in the former Macy's location.

The company acquired the location from Federated Department Stores in January 2003.

The 230,000 square-foot, tri-level location is currently undergoing a renovation and will open as a Proffitt's department store in early October 2004. The company will continue to operate its Parisian and McRae's stores in the Riverchase Galleria.

Toni Browning, president and CEO of Proffitt's/McRae's, commented, "We are excited about introducing our first Proffitt's store to the Birmingham trade area. … this location will incorporate numerous innovative design elements and exciting interactive entertainment experiences seldom, if ever, before offered to department store customers. The store will also offer several unique departments and experiences, including Club Libby Lu, a variety of food concepts, and a great selection of para-pharmacy products."

Neiman may shop specialty catalog

The Neiman Marcus Group is exploring options for its Chef's Catalog, which it acquired in 1998.

Chef's does an annual volume of approximately $75 million through the catalog, Web site, bi-annual warehouse sales and two retail stores, the company said. Potential strategies for the brand include a sale, merger or joint venture.

The retailer has retained Elixir Advisors to handle the effort.