BrandMasters is the name of a new experiential marketing agency created by Crossmark, one of the companies that executes in store activities at Walmart under the Shopper Events banner.

Manthan Systems announced that Sprouts Farmers Markets has selected Manthan’s ARC platform for enterprise-wide reporting and analytics.

Survey results released Wednesday by CouponCabin found that nearly a third (31%) of U.S. consumers feel that holiday shopping is starting too soon, with many stores opening their doors to shoppers Thursday, and in some cases, even Wednesday, night.

Wal-Mart Stores Inc. announced Wednesday it will officially launch its previously announced food-by-mail subscription service, called Goodies, which allows customers to trial sample-sized foods for a monthly fee.

Dick's Sporting Goods reported Tuesday that net income for the quarter ended Oct. 27 surged 21% to $50.1 million, compared with $41.5 million in the same period last year.

Digital marketing solution-provider Lyris said that Australian retailer Harvey Norman has selected and deployed Lyris' digital marketing platform to increase online conversions and lead generation for the company's 180 retail stores.

Saks Inc. reported Tuesday that net income for the third quarter climbed 27.2% to $22.6 million, compared with $17.8 million in the same period last year.

Survey results released by Accenture found that half of U.S. consumers are likely to make a small luxury purchase in the next six months, including 53% who are likely to purchase specialty food or drinks, 48% to purchase luxury clothing and 48% to purchase luxury personal care products.

TJX Cos. reported Tuesday that net income for the quarter ended Oct. 27 rose to $461.5 million, from $406.5 million last year.

OfficeMax today announced it is extending support to the thousands of people still without electricity by providing free in-store charging stations, fax, scan and email services to help those affected by Hurricane Sandy stay connected and get back to business.