Retail briefs

Gary Yiatchos has been named senior vp of marketing for the Parisian division of Saks Inc., replacing Bob Ferguson, who recently retired. Yiatchos reports to George Jones, president and ceo, SDSG. With a retail career spanning almost 30 years, Yiatchos spent 26 years at Federated, holding such merchandising and marketing positions as vp/dmm of cosmetics and accessories and senior vp of marketing, both for The Bon Marché division, and senior vp of corporate marketing for Federated.

Craft retailer Michael's Stores today said it will open its second Star Decorators Wholesale Warehouse in Atlanta in September. The 38,000-square-foot store will carry more than 15,000 skus for interior decorators and designers, retail florists and floral designers, wedding and event planners, gift shop owners and other décor professionals. The operation also has its own merchandising team under the direction of Duane Hiemenz, senior vp of new business development.