Retail briefs

Jim Bromley has been named president of Nordstrom's catalog and Internet division, replacing Ray Johnson, who was interim ceo and president. Bromley was most recently the division's executive vp and cfo. He joined the company in May 2000. In addition, effective Aug. 2, Nordstrom is renaming the division to Nordstrom Direct from Nordstrom.com. Nordstrom Direct will then become a wholly owned subsidiary of Nordstrom Inc.

A zebra wool shaped rug from Armand Diradourian ($895 retail), a sequined fringe pillow from Meagan Park ($285) as well as a Saks exclusive mohair throw ($95) are some of the products Saks Fifth Avenue will feature in its stores for the holiday season, as seen in a preview last week. Other gift ideas include zebra wool cushions and slippers to match the rug, a chenille floral scalloped quilt, and a double patchwork throw and boudoir pillow. In addition, Saks Fifth Avenue is bowing its corporate sales program, dropping a 54-page catalog on Sept. 4th. The program offers the traditional corporate gifts as well as lifestyle-oriented ones, and textiles such as Burberry throws and cashmere scarves will be among the 155 items in the catalog.

Blair Corp., a national catalog and direct marketer of women's and men's apparel and home products, announced senior management appointments with the impending retirement of Blair Smoulder, executive vp. Remaining focused on targeting the Baby Boomer market as a key growth opportunity, Blair has named Robert Crowley senior vp, menswear, home and marketing services. With the added responsibility for the home business unit as well as menswear, Crowley will provide direction and support for the company's marketing, advertising and international trade programs. Crowley has been vp of menswear for the past 21 years, and was appointed to the board of directors in 1994. In addition, Thomas McKeever has become senior vp, operations and administration, and Bryan Flanagan, senior vp, cfo. John Zawacki, president and ceo, will initially oversee the company's womenswear and Crossing Pointe business units and provide direction and support for e-commerce and information systems.

In response to its members' suggestions, the International Mass Retail Association is moving its 2003 Annual Convention and Business Development Forum from the traditional May time slot to September. The convention will now be held Sept. 14 to 17 at the Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center in Orlando.