Retail briefs

Kmart launched its new round of commercials this past Sunday, as part of its ongoing brand advertising campaign that began in February. Its "Stuff of Life" commercials, directed by Spike Lee, will feature Martha Stewart and Jaclyn Smith promoting their respective brands. In other news, Kmart confirmed that Gregg Treadway, executive vp, store operations, has left the company and will not be replaced. Treadway was promoted to his position in February, reporting to then-ceo Chuck Conaway, who left a month later. Treadway joined Kmart in September of last year.

Hancock Fabrics has acquired a 473,000-square-foot warehouse and distribution facility on 64 acres north of its corporate headquarters and distribution center in Tupelo, MS. The deal, which included a substantial amount of storage racking, a conveyor system and material handling equipment, totaled $7.7 million.

Lowe's Companies promoted Eric Sowder to senior vp of logistics, reporting to executive vp of logistics and technology Tom Whiddon. Sowder, who joined Lowe's in 1984, will continue to be responsible for inventory replenishment for the company's 780 stores nationwide as he was in his previous position of vp of logistics. He and his team are charged with keeping Lowe's stores in-stock with inventory as well as managing overall inventory to improve productivity and turns.