7-Eleven: banking 24-7

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7-Eleven: expanding at a cost

7-Eleven has announced a Q4 net loss of $11.5 million compared to a gain of $17.1 million for Q4 2001. Despite this, the outlook for the company remains strong for 2003. As it continues to improve efficiency and expand, 7-Eleven must take care not to stretch resources too thinly.

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7-Eleven: shaping the convenience industry

Dallas-based 7-Eleven [SE] has grown to become a giant in the convenience store business, in terms of both sales and the immense influence it exercises over the product mix in the industry. Its commitment to product innovation has proved profitable but manufacturer support is required to sustain the flow of new products into the future.

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A&P: vintage grocer loses its frills

Following A&P's Q2 loss of $144.7 million, the company is turning to budget-conscious shoppers to boost flagging sales. Its new Food Basics 'mini-supermarkets' take their concept from the increasingly popular dollar stores. However, Food Basics will only pose competition for the likes of Wal-Mart if A&P can maintain low prices and consistent product availability.

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Abercrombie & Fitch: plans for a major overseas presence

In the fourth quarter to February 03, 2007, Abercrombie & Fitch's net income increased 20% to $198.2 million, and in the year to February 2007, net sales increased 19% to $3.3 billion. Although these results are very respectable, the US retailer is a mature brand in its domestic market, and has set its sights on 'explosive' growth internationally, beginning with London in March 2007.

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Abercrombie & Fitch: will it be another Gap story?

US casualwear brand Abercrombie & Fitch opened its first store outside North America on March 22 in London. The company plans to open flagship stores in other European cities, as well as in Japan, as it grows into a global brand. The question is whether it will achieve success with its typically American style or end up with Gap's core problem - being unable to adapt to different markets.

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Ahold touted as rumored Tesco target

Tesco shares fell three pence to 315p yesterday amid market rumours that the company may make a significant acquisition in Europe. Brokers are reported by The Times to have been unconvinced by suggestions that the retailer will join with Kohlberg Kravis Roberts to bid for Ahold, with others suggesting Carrefour as a more credible target.

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Ahold/Peapod: bricks, clicks and groceries

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Ahold/Peapod: getting the green into the black

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Ahold: breaking up is hard to do

Against a backdrop of stagnating sales, troubled retailer Ahold has come under pressure from two hedge funds, Centaurus and Paulson. Holding a 6.4% stake in the company, the two shareholders claim that the current share price of E7.33 could rise to E9, if the group were broken up into its separate units - a prospect that now appears increasingly real.

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