Retail Radar: Sam's Club, Kroger Tout Exclusives; Sam's Club Names Wireless Partner

Path to Purchase Institute members have access to regularly updated profiles, which can be accessed here. Recent news includes PetSmart offering an indelible way to promote its new loyalty program. Click on the headlines to read more.

Sam's Club's Mobile Move

The retailer has named T-Mobile its new, exclusive in-club wireless provider, with incentives for members who buy select products and services.

PetSmart's Loyalty Push

The retailer is promoting its new Treats Rewards loyalty program with a tattoo contest where members can apply for a chance to have their skin art re-inked into a picture of their pet at PetSmart's expense. As for those who already bear tattoos of their pets, they can upgrade to the top tier of loyalty. 

Kroger Exclusive

The retailer is the only place stateside where shoppers can buy Australian brand MCoBeauty's skincare and cosmetics products.

Several retailers are eyeing growth, including by opening new stores or remodeling existing locations. A sampling:

• 7-Eleven: The convenience store chain revealed it intends to focus on mergers and acquisitions with designs on expanding its North American footprint.
• Ace Hardware: A Great Lakes Ace Hardware in Michigan plans a grand reopening, with an added 5,000 square feet of space that includes a full line of Stihl outdoor power equipment, Carhartt workwear and a larger backyard barbecue department.  
• Meijer: The Midwest retailer is opening new supercenters in Michigan and Ohio, each boasting 159,000 square feet of space that includes expansive pet departments as well as grocery, home goods, electronics, toy and apparel aisles.