Manhattan & Bronx retail stores fined for being too cool

I guess in an effort to put a dent on the city deficit *ahem* the Dept of Consumer Affairs has issued $200 fines to nine stores in both boroughs. This was based on a law enacted in 2008 that prevents store owners from leaving their doors open on hot sweltering days hoping to lure consumers with cool air conditioning. The law really tackles energy conservation while curtailing this marketing tactic. Stores such as DSW, Filenes Basement and Armani Exchange were fined. The Bronx stores that took a hit were Jimmy Jazz and V.I.M.
Ummm DCA you collected a mere $1800.00. During a recessive economy stores do what they must to stay open, keep people employeed and vendors paid. Now, cool it! Haha, for more on this article click here.

Sephora upgrades JC Penney

A couple of years ago JC Penney announced its plan to team up with Sephora. So far 130 Sephora stores have rolled out as a store inside a store at JC Penney. I think its a great strategic move for JC Penney. In my opinion Sephora really took a chance in de-valuing its brand or have they? Sephora is a prestigious high end retailer, JC Penney not so much. Could it be that Sephora is looking to widen its customer base not only to increase its retail presence but for its mid-priced private label brand as well? Mass distribution and strategically placed private label cosmetics can provide a great revenue stream for Sephora. I guess the Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy Corporation-the makers of your favorite canvas coated handbags-is trying to take over the world eh?! CEO Bernard Arnault kinda resembles Pinky & the Brain except that he's winning...to the tune of 24.2 billion dollars in an economic downturn.