Retail Briefs

By fall 2007 Kohl's plans to launch an exclusive licensed line of kitchen products under the Food Network brand. Table linens is among the categories the 800-store retailer will develop, as well as cookware, dinnerware, cutlery, food storage, kitchen gadgets and electrics. Marketing may include celebrity chefs. Kohl's president Kevin Mansell said the deal “blends the Food Network entertainment that consumers love with world class brands they expect from a trusted national retailer like Kohl's.”

Federated Department Stores has been notified by investor Carl Icahn that he will increase his stake, buying up to $500 million worth of Federated stock. Icahn acquired WestPoint Home as it emerged from bankruptcy last year. He has also invested heavily in Time Warner and held contentious talks with its management about the direction of the company.

Federated ceo Terry Lundgren said, “We're glad Mr. Icahn sees value in our company and is increasing his investment. While our stock hit an all-time high four times in the past three weeks, we continue to see significant opportunity ahead as we maximize the Macy's and Bloomingdale's brands nationwide.”

Macy's Corporate Marketing has appointed Brad Jakeman executive vp for creative strategy, effective Oct. 16. Jakeman has previously worked with ad agencies Ogilvy & Mather and BBDO Sydney, and most recently led integrated, worldwide advertising efforts for consumer brands at Citigroup.

Anne MacDonald, president of Macy's Corporate Marketing, said Jakeman will “set the strategy, positioning, character and tone of voice for the Macy's brand and its presentation.” Jakeman will also supervise “visual presentation of the brand in delivering the Macy's shopping experience in order to provide a strong, consistent point of view across the national distribution channels.”

The first Wal-Mart store within the Windy City limits opened Sept. 27, a 142,000-square-foot urban retail unit at 4650 W. North Avenue in the Austin neighborhood of Chicago. Ben Gordon, Chicago Bulls point guard, was on hand to model Wal-Mart's private label Exsto young men's apparel at the opening. Chicago mayor Richard Daley and alderman Emma Mitts were invited to cut the ribbon. Special departments include a pharmacy, vision center, one-hour photo lab, and an Uncle Remus restaurant.

Family Dollar Stores has named Raina Avalon vp transportation. She most recently was director, transportation operations at Dollar General. Charlie Gibson, executive vp – supply chain, Family Dollar said, “With more than 22 years of experience in transportation and logistical operations, Raina is a talented addition to our leadership team.”