Alexander Smith

Tags: Pier 1 Imports, TCU Fort Worth Star-Telegram A Have more to add? News tip? Tell us Former Texas Christian University Chancellor Michael R. "Mick" Ferrari is undergoing cancer treatment and was replaced as chairman of Pier 1 Imports after the retailer's annual meeting Tuesday in Fort Worth. Ferrari, who led TCU from 1998 to 2003, did not attend the meeting because his doctors advised him not to travel, Pier 1 CEO Alexander Smith told shareholders. Ferrari participated by phone and remains a director, the company said. Ferrari, who did not attend last year's meeting either, did not discuss

Technology and infrastructure investments will account for 50 percent of Pier 1 Imports’ $70 million to $75 million in planned capital expenditures this year. The retailer will have a lot of IT-enabled activity to show for its money. Two of the biggest elements are the July 28 launch of Pier 1's new e-commerce site and the planned rollout of its new point-of-sale system beginning this fall. "We're working diligently towards the implementation of our new point-of-sale system which we expect to pilot in a handful of stores this fall," said Pier 1 CEO Alexander Smith during a recent conference call.