Laval, Quebec — Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc. (Couche-Tard), one of the world’s largest convenience store retailers with over 15,000 stores globally, has announced new full-service franchise opportunities with its Circle K brand in Canada. The expansion marks the first time the Circle K brand will be franchised in Canada with the offer initially targeting the Ontario province.
retailers
Berlin, N.J. — A.C. Moore has appointed Anthony Piperno as president of the arts and crafts specialty retailer. He assumed responsibilities on January 16, succeeding long-time leader and industry pioneer Pepe Piperno, who will remain actively involved in the company as chairman and CEO.
Bentonville, Ark. — Sam’s Club, a division of Wal-Mart Stores Inc., will close 63 club locations across the country. The company will convert up to 12 of the impacted clubs into e-commerce fulfillment centers in efforts to speed delivery of online orders.
Dunedin, Fla. — Big Frog Custom T-Shirts & More®, a locally-owned, high-technology garment decorating retail franchise, has awarded 100 units in its first 10 years of franchising. The brand closed out 2017 by awarding its 100th unit and has eyes set on awarding 25 more in 2018.
Katy, Texas — Academy, Ltd. d/b/a Academy Sports + Outdoors, a premier sports, outdoor and lifestyle retailer, has appointed Michael Mullican as chief financial officer, effective January 10, 2018. It is a position he has held on an interim basis since September 2017.
Seattle — After three decades marked by expansion and success, Karen McKibbin, president of Nordstrom Rack, will be retiring from Nordstrom in March 2018. Karen joined Nordstrom in 1985 and has held many leadership roles within the company, including president of Nordstrom Canada, where she led the first-ever international expansion of Nordstrom’s full-line stores.
Boca Raton, Fla. — Office Depot, Inc. has appointed Joseph T. Lower as executive vice president and chief financial officer, effective January 8, 2018. He succeeds Stephen E. Hare, who is retiring after 4 years in the role. Hare will assist in the transition of duties.