Bic Camera Stores to sell Dell computers in Japan
In an attempt to strengthen its foothold in Japan, Dell, Inc., is gearing up to sell computers at 22 Bic Camera stores. Prior to this, Japanese customers had to place orders at Dell kiosks and have their computers shipped from the U.S. Now, with computers available for purchase at retail locations, Dell will be able to better connect with customers, said Chris Cowger, Dell's consumer vice president of business development. The stores will sell XPS M1330, Inspiron 1520, and 6400 notebooks as well as Inspiron 530s desktops. However, the company is not abandoning its direct-sales model. According to Dell spokesperson Bob Kaufman, the new arrangement will appeal to consumers who prefer retail purchasing over online or telephone transactions.
Adidas sets its sights on U.S. markets
As part of its brand-building strategy, Adidas has sold more than 200,000 David Beckham "No. 23" jerseys to retailers in the U.S. With Beckham now playing for the Los Angeles Galaxy, the company is trying to maximize gains by leveraging on his popularity. The company is also gearing up to collaborate with many more retail stores and malls as part of its brand-building exercise. Confirming the new development, Patrik Nilsson, the recently appointed president of Adidas America, said, "Our plan is to continue the growth that we've had over the last three or four years." However, Nilsson declined to disclose the company's partnership plans. Slow traffic and sluggish sales in the U.S. are forcing athletic gear companies to partner with retailers like Foot Locker and Finish Line.
Orange 21 contemplates a possible takeover of No Fear
An independent special committee from Orange 21, Inc., is holding primary-level talks with No Fear, Inc., to work out a possible takeover of its subsidiary, No Fear Retail Stores (NFRS), Inc., and certain related intellectual property rights. NFRS runs 40 stores in five states, selling apparel and accessories for action sports and youth lifestyle markets under the No Fear brand name and third-party brand names like Spy Optic. However, so far, neither company is bound by any agreement or obligation other than the non-disclosure agreement they have signed with respect to the potential takeover. Moreover, Mark Simo, chairman and chief executive officer of Orange 21, is not part of the special committee. The committee currently comprises independent directors who will first evaluate the situation to determine a possible strategic transaction.
