Retail briefs

Family Dollar has announced the promotions of seven associates, including Cynthia Dunham to the position of vp, gmm, softlines. Most recently she was divisional vp, merchandising Bruce Barkus has been promoted to the new position of executive vp, store operations, from his post of svp, store operations. Charles Gibson has been promoted to executive vp, distribution and logistics. Ramesh Chikkala has been promoted to vp, store process improvement. And Timothy Matz was promoted to vp, gmm, hardlines; Geno Coradini to divisional vp, real estate; and Christopher White to divisional vp, tax.

Bob Sasser has been named ceo of Dollar Tree Stores, effective Jan. 1. Sasser will retain his title of president, and replaces Macon Brock Jr., who is one of the original founders of the company and who will remain as chairman. Brock will remain a key employee and focus on strategic issues.

Williams-Sonoma's latest concept, PBteen, launched its Web site last week, which will allow the computer-savvy teen crowd to buy its home products online. While it includes pages of furniture, bedding, rug, window, storage, lighting, room decor, bath and beauty, and sale products, the site, at www.pbteen.com, also offers decorating tips, horoscopes, product demos, projects and screensavers. The brand mailed out its first catalog in April.