News

Big retailers report strong sales gains in January

The 3.3% increase over the previous year cheers merchants but shoppers are still exercising restraint. Nordstrom and TJX post double-digit gains.In a surprise showing for a notoriously slow month, shoppers turned out at the nation's... more »

Valley cities wage friendly fight for shoppers

Southeast Valley cities are in a cordial but high-stakes battle for residents' spending money.Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert and Tempe have started or intensified their "shop local" campaigns in recent months, some offering cloth bags, stickers, magnets,... more »

Bloggers Name Top Picks at NYIGF’s Accent on Design

NY, NY — Superlative design-focused gift, home and lifestyle products in Accent on Design® were recognized by bloggers from noted design and trend-watching sites today at the New York International Gift Fair® (NYIGF®).Each blogger selected... more »

Nickel tax on disposable bags prompts people to turn to reusable bags

One of Washingtonians' worst fears these days is being caught shopping without their own bags. As people adjust to the new five-cent fee on disposable bags in the District, everyone seems to have something to... more »

Rutherford Downtown Partnership to offer borough-wide ‘sale’

Rutherford — Shop Rutherford gift certificates will be available at a discount during the month of February, courtesy of the Rutherford Downtown Partnership and Boiling Springs Savings Bank. The certificates, which can be used like... more »

Souvenir stores popping up in South Florida to cash in on Super Bowl

Temporary storefronts selling Super Bowl licensed merchandise have popped up in South Florida as out-of-town businesses look to cash in on football's signature event.With the majority of Super Bowl fans expected to arrive Wednesday for... more »

Tri-Citian at heart creates Splash in Art Walk

Kennewick, WA -- Artist Scott McMillin has spent the last 25-plus years in California hangin' with the Hollywood famous, but he still sees himself as a dyed-in-the-wool Tri-City boy.McMillin, who recently opened a new gallery... more »

Tourist businesses weather the storm

Salem, MA — Fewer people visited Salem attractions in 2009, and they spent less money while they were here — a reflection of the overall economy. But there were unexpected highlights, too.Some businesses say they... more »

Flower Lessons in Red Hook

The Little Flower School in Brooklyn teaches people how to make their own arrangements. Sarah Ryhanen and Nicolette Owen discovered each other the way everyone does these days: online. Ryhanen owns Saipua, a flower shop... more »

Program Offers Money to Banks to Help Small Business

Washington — The Treasury Department will invest up to $1 billion from the federal bank bailout fund in small banks and credit unions that make loans to small businesses in some of the communities most... more »