Retail Stores

True Religion Apparel plans to open 25 new stores in 2012. Ten of the 25 new stores are slated to open in international locations, and the company is negotiating to open in more markets across Europe and Asia.

The National Retail Federation's Annual Convention & Expo (aka Retail's BIG Show) in New York City wrapped up this past Wednesday. Here are some random conclusions I've drawn after roaming the cavernous Jacob Javits Convention Center for three days covering the event:

Gap's Athleta athletic apparel line for women plans to open stores in Chicago, Boston, Houston and Denver in 2012, Scott Key, senior vice president and general manager, said in a telephone interview.

Markdowns and cash rebates, a strategy of many brands and retailers today, may actually be eroding brand loyalty, COLLOQUY reveals in a report that should serve as a wake-up call for U.S. marketers.

Target will host a release event for Summit Entertainment's "The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 1" on DVD and Blu-ray at nearly 500 stores across the country, extending store hours to accommodate the fans of the franchise.

MaxPoint Interactive hit the show floor at the National Retail Federation's 101st Annual Convention & Expo to get a pulse on what's hot in 2012. The company surveyed 101 show attendees, asking "What is your new rule for retail in 2012?"

The Disney Store has announced expansion plans for its recently revamped store design. New store openings include the company's first-ever location in Shanghai, which will open in fall 2012, marking the 12th country to receive the interactive retail model.

Signage is a world unto itself. There are strategizers, designers, merchandisers and marketers plotting signage schemes and systems. Signs are mighty tools in the arsenal of every wise retailer. They're "silent salespeople" who can influence shoppers through stealthy words and gorgeous design.

Every online retailer knows the importance of having an optimized and easy-to-navigate website. They know they need to streamline processes, offer exceptional customer service and have an efficient checkout process. But what about brick-and-mortar stores?

A common theme heard at the National Retail Federation's Annual Convention & Expo in New York City this week was that consumer shopping behavior was transitioning towards e-commerce and a cross-channel approach as a result of the growing consumer adoption of smartphones. As such, it's incumbent upon retailers to adjust accordingly in order to remain relevant in 2012 and beyond.