Retail roundup: B&N’s Nook, Bratz battle, Sears payment plan and new Pinkberry flavor
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Nook finds a new home –- The world’s largest bookseller is teaming up with the world’s largest retailer. Barnes & Noble announced this week that its Nook e-reader wouldbe sold in 2,500 Wal-Mart stores and online at www.walmart.com.
The Nook devices are expected to hit Wal-Mart shelves as soon as Oct. 24 and will be featured in the consumer electronics area.
Wal-Mart will sell two Nook models: The Nook 3G, which offers free AT&T 3G wireless and Wi-Fi connectivity, as well as the Nook Wi-Fi, a Wi-Fi only model.
Separately, a judge decided that Barnes & Noble may face trial in a lawsuit by investors claiming that some directors violated their duties in the $596-million buyout of Barnes & Noble College Booksellers Inc. from the retailer’s chairman, Leonard Riggio, according to a Bloomberg report.
Bratz battle –- The U.S. Court of Appeals in San Francisco denied toy giant Mattel’s petition for a review of a July ruling that ordered a retrial in the toy company’s battle with rival MGA Entertainment over the saucy Bratz dolls.
In July, a federal appeals court overturned a December 2008 ruling that gave Mattel ownership of the trademark rights to the Bratz dolls and $100 million in damages ($10 million of it for copyright infringement). The appeals panel said El Segundo-based Mattel couldn’t claim a monopoly over dolls with a bratty attitude.
The case is scheduled to be retried in January.
Sears payment plan –- Sears announced a new payment option to its existing lineup of financing solutions.
The Sears Monthly Payment Plan offers a more controlled form of borrowing for shoppers who want to avoid unexpected finance charges, the department store said. The plan includes a low APR and a fixed monthly payment over 48 months.
Sears will launch a national marketing campaign through this holiday season to raise awareness of this new offering, including placement in circular advertising and a television commercial.
The Sears Monthly Payment Plan is available for qualifying purchases of $750 or more and is subject to credit approval. The department store also offers layaway. For more information about the plan, click http://www.sears.com/morewaystopay.
Holiday yogurt –- Pinkberry has rolled out a limited-time-only flavor for the holidays: pumpkin. The new seasonal flavor hit stores this week. It is made with real pumpkin puree, nonfat milk and nonfat yogurt, the Los Angeles company said.
-- Andrea Chang
