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PLUNKETT'S RETAIL INDUSTRY ALMANAC 1999-2000 The only complete guide to the American Retail Industry and its major firms

Jack W. Plunkett Published by: Plunkett Research, Ltd., Houston, Texas www.plunkettresearch.com

Copyright  1999 by Plunkett Research, Ltd.

Published by: Plunkett Research, Ltd. P. O. Drawer 541737 Houston, Texas 77254-1737 USA Phone: 713.932.0000 Fax: 713.932.7080 Internet: www.plunkettresearch.com ISBN # 1-891775-69-3 End-User License Agreement, Limited Warranty & Limitation of Liability-Effective April 2002, Plunkett Research, Ltd. Important, read carefully: This agreement is a legal agreement between you (whether as an individual or an organization) and Plunkett Research, Ltd. By installing, copying, downloading, accessing or otherwise using the Plunkett Data, you agree to be bound by the terms of this Agreement. If you do not agree to the terms of this Agreement, do not install or use the Plunkett Data. The information (the "Data" or the "Plunkett Data") contained in this printed version or electronic file is the property of Plunkett Research, Ltd. Copyright laws and international copyright treaties, as well as other intellectual property laws and treaties, protect the Plunkett Data. LIMITED RIGHTS TO INSTALL DATA ON ELECTRONIC DEVICES: Plunkett Research, Ltd. grants you, as an individual or an organization, a non-exclusive license to use and and/or install this Data, including installation of electronic files on one individual desktop computer AND on one laptop computer AND one personal digital assistant or dedicated portable eBook reader (such as a Palm or iPaq). This is a limited license, which applies to a single user. Organizations desiring multi-user licenses may purchase additional rights at reasonable cost by contacting Plunkett Research, Ltd., 713.932.0000, www.plunkettresearch.com, email: [email protected]. LIMITED RIGHTS TO EXPORT OR COPY DATA, SUBJECT TO CONTINUED COPYRIGHT NOTICE: Limited exporting or copying of certain limited amounts of Data for creation of mailing lists, summaries and contact lists is allowed, PROVIDED THAT: 1) The exported Data is for use by one organization, company or individual only. 2) The exported Data will not be re-sold, posted to an Internet-based file, commercially published, or broadly distributed outside of the organization/corporation that has purchased the Plunkett Data. 3) Broad use, multipremises use, or sharing outside of the organization that purchased the Plunkett Data is not allowed. 4) Violators will be subject to all penalties allowed by law. Rights under this license may not be sold or transferred. Data which may be exported or copied under the rights conferred through this paragraph may consist of any of the following: i. Up to 400 words of text; ii. Company names, addresses, telephone numbers,and executives with job titles; iii. Up to 2 tables or charts, PROVIDED THAT said Data is immediately followed by this information in a font size that is clearly legible and of no less than 9 points in size: Copyright © Plunkett Research, Ltd., www.plunkettresearch.com, all rights reserved.

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PLUNKETT'S RETAIL INDUSTRY ALMANAC 1999-2000 Editor and Publisher: Jack W. Plunkett Contributing Senior Writer: Steve Kruse Editors: Nancy Brown Shilpa Chunchu Joan Hiller Lam Hoang Melissa Ibanez P.J. Ingenito Steve Kruse Macy McBeth Tonya Steckbeck Chau Tran Emma Tsai Hilary Turner Suzanne Zarosky

Cover Design: Kim Paxson, Just Graphics Boerne, TX Special Thanks to: U. S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics U.S. Department of Commerce, International Trade Administration, National Technical Information Service U.S. Bureau of the Census, Monthly Retail Surveys Branch

Plunkett Research, Ltd. P. O. Drawer 541737, Houston, Texas 77254 Phone: 713.932.0000 Fax: 713.932.7080 www.plunkettresearch.com

PLUNKETT'S RETAIL INDUSTRY ALMANAC 1999-2000 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Glossary: A List of Retail Terms i Introduction 1 How to use this book 3 Chapter 1: An Overview of the Retail Industry 6 (Markets, Statistics and Trends) 31 Chapter 2: A Short List of Important Retail Industry Contacts (Addresses, Phone Numbers and World Wide Web Sites) 53 Chapter 3: On-Line Retailing and Non-Store Retailing 58 Chapter 4: Shopping Centers Leading Shopping Center/Mall/Outlet Mall Owners and Managers 61 Chapter 5: Careers in Retail 66 Chapter 6: The Retail 500: Who they are and how they were chosen 81 Industry Codes 82 Index of Rankings Within Industry Groups 83 (The Retail 500 grouped by industry, and ranked for sales, profits and growth) Alphabetical Index Index of Headquarters Location, by State Index by Regions of the Nation Where the Retail 500 Have Locations Index by Firms with International Locations Individual profiles on each of the Retail 500

99 103 108 122 124

Additional Indexes Index of Firms Noted as "Hot Spots for Advancement for Women & Minorities" 577 Index by Store Names, Subsidiaries, Brand Names and Selected Affiliations 579

Appendix Monthly Retail Trade Survey – Overview Monthly Retail Trade Survey – 1999 Retail Sales (1st quarter) Monthly Retail Trade Survey – 1998 Retail Sales Monthly Retail Trade Survey – 1997 Retail Sales Monthly Retail Trade Survey – Explanatory Materials Monthly Retail Trade Survey – Reliability of Monthly Estimates Estimated Coefficients of Variation and Standard Error for Retail Sales by Kinds of Business Estimated Coefficients of Variation in Percent for Retail Inventories by Kinds of Business Monthly Retail Trade Survey – Kind-of-Business Classifications (CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE)

596 598 601 607 614 621 623 625 626

(CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE) U.S. Department of Commerce News – Advance Monthly Retail Sales (April 1999) Estimated Advance Monthly Retail Sales (April 1999)

637 639

LIST OF MAJOR TABLES & FIGURES Careers Total Jobs, Job Openings, Retail Positions; 1999, 2005 Consumers, Consumer Credit, Personal Consumption Personal Consumption Expenditures by Major Type of Product, 1990-96 Consumer Credit Outstanding, 1960-98 Personal and Real Personal Consumption Expenditures by Major Type of Product U. S. Population by Age Group, 1960-98 Total and Per Capita Disposable Personal Income and Personal Consumption Expenditures in Current and Real Dollars, 1962-95

67 11 19 21 27 28

Corporate Employment, Corporate Profits, Employment Costs, Gross Domestic Product (“GDP”), and Merchandise Imports Imports and Exports, 1965-98 29 Real GDP, 1960-98 in Constant Dollars 30 Retail Sales Estimated Retail Sales by Kinds of Business; 1980-1998 Shopping Centers Major Entertainment/Retail Projects Under Development, 1999-2000

7 59

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

Glossary of Retailing Terms ABC Analysis: Rank-orders SKUs by profitability to determine which items should never be out of stock.

i

Barcode Label: A printed label containing black and white coded images meeting industry standards for routing packages or retrieving information about the box or merchandise that the label is attached to.

Accessibility: The degree to which customers can easily get into and out of a shopping center.

Boutique Layout: A store design that places all departments on the “main aisle” by drawing customers through the store in a series of major and minor loops; also known as a loop.

Accordian Theory: A cyclical theory of retailer evolution suggesting that changes in retail institutions are explained in terms of depth versus breadth of assortment. Retail institutions cycle from high-depth/low-breadth to lowdepth/high-breadth stores and back again.

Buying Power Index (BPI): An index indicating the percentage of total U.S. retail sales occurring in a specific geographic area; used to forecast demand for new stores and to evaluate the performance of existing stores.

Anticompetitive Leasing Arrangement: A lease that limits the type and amount of competition a particular retailer faces within a trading area -- for example, a lease that won’t allow two supermarkets in one shopping center. Antitrust Legislation: A set of laws which fosters a competitive environment preventing unreasonable restraint of trade or unfair trade practices. Asset Turnover: Net sales divided by total assets.

Call Tag: A service provided by freight companies where a shipper requests that a previously delivered package be picked up and returned to the shipper. Catalog Showroom: A retailer that combines a store showroom with an adjacent warehouse to display merchandise; typically specializes in hard goods such as housewares. Category: A related assortment of items (SKUs) -- for example, ladies and misses clothes. Category Killer: Discount retailer that offers a complete assortment in a category and thus dominates a category from the customer’s perspective; also known as a category specialist.

Assortment Management: A new computer use that breaks down barriers in merchandising by allowing retailers to offer the right amount of product at the right time. Retailers accomplish this through comprehensive computer analysis which forecasts consumer preferences, buying patterns and buying trends.

Central Business District (CBD): The traditional downtown business area of a city or town.

Atmosphere: Architecture, layout, signs and displays, color, lighting, music and odors which together create an image in the customer’s mind.

Centralized Buying: A situation in which a retailer makes all purchase decisions at one location, typically the headquarters.

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Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

Classification: A group of items or SKUs for the same type of merchandise, such as pants (as opposed to jackets or suits), supplied by different vendors.

displaying merchandise, for example, Dillards or Saks Fifth Ave. However, the variety of departments is lessening in recent years, and these stores tend to focus on apparel today.

Classification Dominance: An assortment so broad that customers should be able to satisfy all of their consumption needs for a particular category by visiting one retailer -- for example, Toys ‘R’ Us.

Direct Mail Catalog Retailer: A retailer offering merchandise and/or services through catalogs mailed directly to customers.

Close-out Store: A retailer offering low-priced merchandise obtained through liquidations. Community Center: A large shopping center that includes a discount store, specialty department store, super drugstore, homeimprovement center and other convenience and shopping goods stores. Consignee: The individual or organization to which a package is delivered. Consignment Goods: Items not paid for by the retailer until they are sold. The retailer can return unsold merchandise. Consumerism: The activities of government, business and independent organizations designed to protect individuals from practices that infringe upon their rights as consumers. Convenience Center: A shopping center that typically includes such stores as a convenience store and a dry cleaner. Convenience Stores: Stores between 3,000 and 8,000 square feet in size providing a limited assortment of merchandise at a convenient location and time -- for example, 7-11. Cooperative (co-op) Advertising: A program in which the vendor agrees to pay all or part of a retailer’s ads for the vendor’s products. Department Stores: Very large stores carrying a wide variety and deep assortment while offering considerable customer services. Stores are organized into separate departments for

Direct-marketing: A form of non-store retailing in which customers are exposed to merchandise through catalogs, mailers, or television and then purchase the merchandise by telephone or mail -- for example, Horchow catalogs. Direct-selling: A form of non-store retailing which involves selling merchandise through salespeople who contact consumers directly or by telephone at home or place of work -- for example, Mary Kay cosmetics. Discount Store: A general merchandise retailer offering a wide variety of merchandise, limited service and low prices -- for example, Target or Kmart. Discount-Anchored Center: A shopping center that contains one or more discount stores plus smaller retail tenants. E-Commerce: The use of on-line, Internetbased sales methods. The phrase is used to describe both business-to-consumer and business-to-business sales. Electronic Data Interchange (EDI): The computer-to-computer exchange of business documents from retailer to vendor and back, such as purchase orders. End Caps: Display fixtures located at the end of an aisle. Everyday-Low-Price Strategy: A pricing strategy that attempts to have, on average, low prices on all items every day rather than periodically advertising price promotions on a

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

few items -- for example, Food Lion. These retailers will often match competitors’ prices. Factory Outlet Stores: Off-price retail stores owned by manufacturers. FOB (Freight-On-Board) Destination: A term of sale designating that the shipper owns the merchandise until it is delivered to the retailer. The shipper is therefore responsible for transportation and any damage claims. Franchising: A contractual agreement between a franchisor and a franchisee that allows the franchisee to operate a retail outlet using a name and format developed and supported by the franchisor. Free-standing Retailer: A location for a retailer that is a building by itself, frequently on a pad site in front of a shopping center. Gross Margin: The difference between the retail price the customer pays for merchandise and the cost of the merchandise (the price the retailer paid at wholesale). Hard-lines: Durable, non-apparel items, such as furniture, appliances and housewares. Home Improvement Center: A category specialist combining the traditional hardware store and lumberyard -- for example, Home Depot. Hypermarket: A very large retail store which offers low prices and combines a discount store and a superstore food retailer in one warehouselike building -- for example, a Wal-Mart Supercenter. These stores may be as large as 200,000 square feet. Independent Retailer: A retailer that owns only one or two retail stores. Internet-Based Selling: (See Non-store Retailing.)

iii

Inventory Management: The process of acquiring and maintaining a proper assortment of merchandise while keeping ordering, shipping, handling and other related costs in check. Since it is expensive to own and stock inventory, proper management is vital. Dillard’s and WalMart are famous for advanced inventory management. Inventory Turnover: Net sales divided by average retail inventory; used to evaluate how effectively managers utilize their investment in inventory. Just-In-Time-Inventory: A computerized method of tracking inventory needs and writing purchase orders, timed so that inventory arrives only on the day it is needed. Keystone Method: A method of setting retail prices in which retailers simply double the cost of the merchandise to determine the original retail selling price. Leased Department: A department in a retail store operated by an outside party. The outside party either pays fixed rent or a percentage of sales to the retailer for the space. Less-Than-Truck-Load (LTL) Shipment: A shipment of freight that is routed to special trucks specifically designed to accept smaller loads. Leveraged Buyout (LBO): A financial transaction in which a buyer (the firm’s management or an outside individual or group) acquires a company by borrowing money from a financial institution or by issuing junk bonds using the acquired company’s assets as collateral. Licensed Brands: Brands for which the licensor (owner of a well-known name) enters a contractual arrangement with a licensee (a retailer or a third party). The licensee either manufactures or contracts with a manufacturer to produce the licensed product and pays a royalty

iv

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

to the licensor. Many fashion designers license their names, such as Ralph Lauren. Lifestyle Merchandising: Development of merchandise lines based on consumer living patterns. Loss Leader: An item priced near or below cost to attract customer traffic into the store. Markdown: The percentage reduction in the initial retail price. Neighborhood Center: A shopping center that includes a supermarket, drugstore, homeimprovement center or variety store. Neighborhood centers often include small stores, such as apparel, shoe, camera and other shopping goods stores. Net Lease: A lease that requires all maintenance expenses such as heat, insurance and interior repair to be paid by the retailer. Non-store Retailing: A form of retailing that is not store-based. Non-store retailing can be conducted through vending machines, direct selling, direct-marketing, party-based selling, direct-mail, catalogs, television programming, telemarketing and Internet-based selling. Off-Price Retailer: A retailer that offers an inconsistent assortment of brand-name, fashionoriented soft goods at low prices. Optical Character Recognition (OCR): An industrywide classification system for coding information onto merchandise; enables retailers to record information on each SKU when it is sold and to transmit that information to a computer. This is accomplished through computerized cash registers that include bar-code scanners. These are called point-of-sale systems. Pad Site: A location for a free-standing retail building that sits in front of a mall or shopping center. Party-Based Selling: (See Non-store Retailing.)

Percentage Lease: A lease that relates the amount of rent to a retailer’s sales or profits. Point-Of-Purchase Display (POP): An interior display that provides customers with information and promotes the merchandise. Point-Of-Sale (POS) Terminals: A cash register that has the capability to electronically scan a UPC code with a laser and electronically record a sale; also known as computerized checkout. Positioning: The design and implementation of a merchandising mix, price structure and style of selling to create an image of the retailer, relative to its competitors, in the customer’s mind.

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

Power Shopping Center: A large, open-air shopping center with the majority of space preleased to several well-known anchor retail tenants. Typical anchor tenants include OfficeMax, Toys ‘R’ Us, Marshalls, Computer City or Best Buy. Some of these tenants may be on pad sites. Convenient access and parking are emphasized. These centers usually sit on major intersections. Predatory Pricing: A method for establishing merchandise prices for the purpose of driving competition from the marketplace. Premium: Merchandise offered at a lower price, or free, as an additional incentive for a customer to make a purchase. Price Elasticity of Demand: A measure of the effect a price change has on consumer demand; percentage change in demand divided by percentage change in price.

v

Proof-Of-Delivery: Verification provided by a freight company that delivery of a shipment was completed at a certain time and place and was signed for by the recipient. Proprietary Store Credit Card System: A system in which credit cards have the store’s name on them and the accounts receivable are administered by the retailer; also known as inhouse credit system. Regional Center: A shopping center or mall which includes up to three department stores plus shopping or specialty stores rather than convenience stores. Super-regionals are similar but have at least four department stores. Retail Chain: A firm that consists of multiple retail units under common ownership and usually has some centralization of decision making in defining and implementing its strategy. SKU: (See Stock Keeping Unit.)

Price Fixing: An illegal pricing activity in which several companies collaborate to establish a fixed retail price for a product within a market area. Private-Label Brand: A brand of products that is produced by a store. The brand carries the store’s own names or a name that it has created. For example, Sears has Kenmore store brand appliances and May’s has Charter Club store brand clothes. This is also known as a store brand. Private-Label Store Credit Card System: A system in which credit cards have the store’s name on them, but the accounts receivable are sold to a financial institution. Profit Margin: Net profit after taxes divided by net sales.

Sell-through Analysis: A comparison between actual and planned sales to determine whether early markdowns are required or whether more merchandise is needed to satisfy demand. Shrinkage: The difference between the recorded value of inventory (at retail) based on merchandise bought and the retail value of actual inventory in stores and distribution centers divided by retail sales during a time period. Shrinkage is caused by employee theft, by customer shoplifting and by merchandise being misplaced, damaged or mispriced. Soft Goods: Apparel and linens. Specialty Store: A store specializing in one category of merchandising, frequently fashionrelated.

vi

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

Specialty Department Store: A store with a department store format that focuses on apparel and soft home goods (for example, Neiman Marcus). Stock Keeping Unit (SKU): The smallest unit available for keeping inventory control. In soft goods merchandise (clothing and linens), a SKU usually means size, color and style. Stock-to-Sales Ratio: The beginning-of-month (BOM) inventory divided by sales for the month. The average stock-to-sales ratio is 12 divided by planned inventory turnover. This ratio is an integral component of the merchandise budget plan. Store Brand: (See Private-label Brand.) Strip Center: A small shopping center that comprises several adjacent stores located along a major street or highway. Super-regionals: (See Regional Centers.) Superstores: A large supermarket or specialty store, usually between 20,000 and 100,000 square feet. Telemarketing: (see Non-store Retailing) Universal Product Code (UPC): The blackand-white bar code found on almost all grocery and discount store products and on an increasingly large number of department and specialty store merchandise. Vendor: Any firm such as a manufacturer or distributor from which a retailer obtains merchandise. Warehouse Store: A discount retailer offering merchandise in a no-frills environment. Wholesale Club: A general merchandise retailer offering a limited merchandise assortment with little service at low prices -- for example, Sam’s Clubs.

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

1

INTRODUCTION PLUNKETT’S RETAIL INDUSTRY ALMANAC 1999-2000 is the second edition of the only guide to the retail field designed to be used as a general, onestop source for researchers of all types. For purposes of this book, we define “retail” as retail store chains, retail services companies and non-store retailers. Retail store chains include firms that sell hard goods or soft goods, plus specialty stores, major department stores and drug/grocery chains. Retail services companies include developers of specialty software and point-of-sale systems, anti-theft products, mall-based entertainment and firms providing services for selling on the Internet. Nonstore retailers include companies creating sales through catalogs and other direct-mail, directresponse advertising, television-based selling including home shopping programs, party-sales methods and on-line selling including sales over the Internet. The data and areas of interest covered are purposely broad, ranging from the various aspects of the American retail industry to occupations, careers, emerging technology and an in-depth look at the 500 major firms (which we call “The Retail 500”) within the many industries that make up the retail system. Essentially all of the companies in our study are U.S.based and publicly held (See Chapter 6). However, a few are privately held, and ten are major foreign firms with stock trading on American stock exchanges.

In the past, thorough and objective reviews of industries and their corporations were written primarily by analysts writing only from an investor’s point of view. These analysts’ methods may pick out the best stock purchases, but they may not consider companies from a universal point of view or in plain terms of greatest use to non-financial readers. PLUNKETT’S RETAIL INDUSTRY ALMANAC takes a more rounded approach for the general reader. This book presents a complete overview of the entire retail business (see “How To Use This Book"). For example, acquisitions and consolidations of retail firms are covered in exacting detail, along with easy to use tables on all facets of retail in general, from the number of personnel working in each type of occupation to names and descriptions of the divisions and affiliates of the major firms within this industry. THE RETAIL 500 is our unique grouping of the biggest, most successful corporations in all segments of the American retail industry. Tens of thousands of pieces of corporate information gathered from a wide variety of sources are presented in a unique form that can be easily understood. This book includes thorough indexes to THE RETAIL 500 by geography, industry, sales, brand names, subsidiary names and many other topics.

2

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

Especially helpful is the way in which PLUNKETT’S RETAIL INDUSTRY ALMANAC readily enables readers who have no business background to compare the financial records and growth plans of large retail companies and major industry groups. You’ll see the mid-term financial record of each firm along with the impact of earnings, sales and strategic plans on each company’s potential to fuel growth, to open new stores and to provide lucrative and lasting investment and employment opportunities. No other source provides this book’s easy-tounderstand comparisons of growth, expenditures, occupations, technologies, imports/exports, corporations and many other items of great importance to people of all types who may be studying the retail industry.

•

Corporate mergers, acquisitions and downsizing are occurring at a very rapid rate, particularly in the retail field. Such events may have created significant change, subsequent to the publishing of this book, within a company you are studying.

•

Some of the companies in THE RETAIL 500 are so large in scope and in variety of business endeavors conducted within a parent organization that we have been unable to completely list all subsidiaries, affiliations, divisions and activities within a firm’s corporate structure.

•

This volume is intended to be a general guide to a vast industry. That means that researchers should look to this book for an overview, and, when conducting in-depth research, should contact the specific corporations or industry associations in question for the very latest changes and data. Where possible, we have listed contact names, toll-free telephone numbers, interactive news-fax numbers and World Wide Web site addresses for the companies, government agencies and industry associations involved so that the reader may get further details without unnecessary delay.

•

Tables of industry and economic statistics used in this book include the latest numbers available at the time of printing, generally through the end of 1998. In a few cases, however, you will note tables ending with 1996 or with mid-1997.

•

We have used exhaustive efforts to locate and fairly present accurate and complete data. However, when using this book or any other source for business and industry information, the reader should use caution and diligence by conducting further research where it seems appropriate. We wish you success in your endeavors, and we trust that your experience with this book will be both satisfactory and productive.

By scanning the data groups and the unique indexes, you can find the best information to fit your personal research needs. The best major growth companies in retail are ranked using different groups of specific criteria. Which firms have the fastest growth rates? Which are the biggest employers? Which companies earn the most profits? All of these things and more are easy for the reader to find. In addition to individual company profiles, an overview of on-line technology, entertainment-based malls and other major trends is provided. This book’s job is to help you sort through easy-to-understand summaries of today’s retail products, services and trends in a quick and effective manner. Whatever your purpose for researching the retail field, you’ll find this book to be a valuable guide. Nonetheless, as is true with all resources, this volume has limitations that the reader should be aware of: •

Financial data and other corporate information can change quickly. A book of this type can be no more current than the data that was available as of the time of editing. Consequently, the financial picture, management and ownership of the firm(s) you are studying may have changed since the date of this book. For example, this almanac includes the most up-to-date sales figures and profits available to the editors as of late 1998. That means that we have typically used data for December 31, 1998, or for a fiscal year that ended in the winter of 1998-99.

Jack W. Plunkett Houston, Texas, June 1999

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

3

HOW TO USE THIS BOOK

The two primary sections of this book are devoted first to the retail industry as a whole and then to the “Individual Data Listings” for THE RETAIL 500. If time permits, you should begin your research in the front chapters of this book. Also, you will find lengthy indexes in Chapter 6 and in the back of the book.

Chapter 4: Shopping Centers. Trends in malls and shopping centers, plus names and addresses of major developers and managers. Chapter 5: Careers in Retail. This chapter includes brief discussions of many types of retail occupations. THE RETAIL 500

THE RETAIL INDUSTRY Glossary: A short list of Retail Industry terms. Chapter 1: An Overview of the Retail Industry. This chapter presents an overview of the markets, statistics and trends of the Retail Industry. These trends range from consolidations and mergers to advanced technologies. Several tables accompany this chapter. Chapter 2: A Short List of Important Retail Industry Contacts -- Addresses, Telephone Numbers and World Wide Web Sites. This chapter covers contacts for important government agencies, retail organizations and trade groups. Included are several important World Wide Web sites. Chapter 3: On-Line Retailing and Non-Store Retailing. This chapter deals with the growing use of the Internet and the World Wide Web by retail companies to sell their products. It also covers selling by catalog, party-based sales and other nonstore methods.

Chapter 6: The Retail 500: Who They Are and How They Were Chosen. The companies compared in this book (the actual count is 452) were carefully selected from all retail industries on a nationwide basis. For a complete description, see Chapter 6: “THE RETAIL 500.” Individual Data Listings -Look at one of the companies in The Retail 500’s Individual Data Listings. You’ll find the following information fields: Company Name: The company profiles are in alphabetical order by company name. If you don’t find the company you are seeking, it may be a subsidiary or division of one of the firms covered in this book. Try looking it up in the Index by Store Names, Subsidiaries, Brand Names and Selected Affiliations in the back of the book. Ranks: Industry Group Code: A unique code used within this book in order to group companies within like segments. (See Chapter 6 for a list of codes.)

4

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

Ranks Within This Company’s Industry Group: Ranks, within this firm’s segment only, for annual sales, annual profits and annual research and development budget. Store Data: A grid divided into six categories. These categories include the company’s store names and, when available, size of the store, annual sales per store, typical store location (what type of shopping center or building) and number of stores. A complete index by industry is in Chapter 6. TYPES OF BUSINESS:

A listing of up to six descriptions of the types of business specialties conducted by the firm. Brands/Divisions/Affiliations: Major brand names, operating divisions or subsidiaries of the firm, as well as major corporate affiliations, such as another firm that owns a significant portion of the stock. A complete Index of Subsidiaries, Brand Names and Selected Affiliations is in the back of the book. Contacts: The names and titles of top officers of the company are listed. Address: The firm’s full headquarters address, the headquarters telephone, plus toll-free and fax numbers where available. Also provided are e-mail addresses, World Wide Web site addresses, interactive fax or news lines and other telephone/modem contacts when available. Financials: Annual Sales (1998 or the latest fiscal year available to the editors, plus up to four previous years): These are stated in thousands of dollars; add three zeros if you want the full number. This figure represents consolidated worldwide sales from all operations. 1998 figures may be estimates. (Also, you may want to see the Rankings Within Industry Table in Chapter 6.) Annual Profits (1998 or the latest fiscal year available to the editors, plus up to four previous years): These are stated in thousands of dollars; add three zeros if you want the full number. This figure represents consolidated, after-tax net profit from all operations, generally before nonrecurring items. 1998 figures may be estimates. Total Number of Employees: The approximate total number of employees, worldwide, as of the end of 1998 (or the latest data available to the editors). Apparent Salaries/Benefits:

Due to wide variations in the manner in which corporations report benefits to the U.S. Government’s regulatory bodies, not all plans will have been uncovered during our effort to research this data. Also, the availability of such plans to employees will vary according to the qualifications that employees must meet to become eligible. For example, some benefit plans may be available only to salaried workers – others only to employees who work more than 1,000 hours yearly. Benefits that are available to employees of the main or parent company may not be available to employees of subsidiaries. A “Y” in appropriate fields indicates “Yes.” NOTE: Generally, employees covered by wealth-building benefit plans do not fully own (“vest in”) funds contributed on their behalf by the employer until five years of service with that employer have passed. Pension Plan: The firm offers a pension plan to qualified employees. The type and generosity of these plans varies widely from firm to firm. ESOP Stock Plan (Employees’ Stock Ownership Plan): This plan is gaining in popularity. Typically, the plan borrows money from a bank and uses those funds to purchase a large block of the corporation’s stock. The corporation makes contributions to the plan over a period of time, and the stock purchase loan is eventually paid off. The value of the plan grows significantly as long as the market price of the stock holds up. Qualified employees are allocated a share of the plan based on their length of service and their level of salary. Savings Plan, 401(k): Under this type of plan, employees make a tax-deferred deposit into an account. In the best plans, the company makes annual matching donations to the employees’ accounts, typically in some proportion to deposits made by the employees themselves. A good plan will match one-half of employee deposits of up to six percent of wages. In other words, an employee earning $30,000 yearly might deposit $1,800 (six percent) into the plan. The company might match one-half of the employee’s deposit, or $900. The plan grows on a tax-deferred basis, similar to an IRA. A very generous plan will match 100 percent of employee deposits. However, some plans do not call for the employer to make a matching deposit at all. Actual terms of these plans vary widely from firm to firm. Generally, these savings plans will allow employees to deposit as much as fifteen

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

percent of salary into the plan on a tax-deferred basis. However, the portion that the company uses to calculate its matching deposit is limited to a maximum of six percent of salary. Stock Purchase Plan: Qualified employees may purchase the company’s common stock at a price below its market value under a specific plan. Typically, the employee is limited to investing a small percentage of wages in this plan. These plans usually offer a fifteen percent discount, but the discount may range from five percent to fifteen percent. Profit Sharing: Qualified employees are awarded an annual amount equal to some portion of a company’s profits. In a very generous plan, the pool of money awarded to employees would be fifteen percent of profits. Typically, this money is deposited into a long-term retirement account. Highest Executive Salary: The highest executive salary paid, typically a 1998 amount (or the latest year available to the editors) and typically paid to the Chief Executive Officer. Highest Executive Bonus: The apparent bonus, if any, paid to the above person. Second Highest Executive Salary: The next-highest executive salary paid, typically a 1998 amount (or the latest year available to the editors) and typically paid to the President or Chief Operating Officer. Second Highest Executive Bonus: The apparent bonus, if any, paid to the above person. Competitive Advantage: A brief statement regarding an outstanding feature that gives the firm an edge in the marketplace. Other Thoughts: A “Y” in appropriate fields indicates “Yes.” Stock Ticker: When available, the unique stock market symbol used to identify this firm’s common stock for trading and tracking purposes. Apparent Women Officers or Directors: It’s difficult to obtain this information on an exact basis, and employers are not required to disclose the data in a public way. (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission records are not entirely subject to the Freedom of Information Act.) However, we have indicated what our best efforts reveal to be the apparent number of women who are either in the posts of corporate officers or who sit on the board of directors. There is a wide variance from company to company.

5

Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: As noted above, it’s difficult to obtain this information on an exact basis, and employers are not required to disclose the data in a public way. However, we have indicated what our best efforts reveal to be the apparent number of minorities who are either in the posts of corporate officers or who sit on the board of directors. If a woman who is a minority is involved in the top ranks of the company, she is counted twice: once in the Apparent Women number and once in the Apparent Minorities number. Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: These are firms who either have posted a far-above-average number of women and/or minorities to high posts, or who have a good record of going out-of-their way to recruit, train, promote and retain women or minorities in top jobs. (See the Index of Hot Spots For Women and Minorities in the back of the book). Growth Plans/ Special Features: Listed here are observations regarding the firm’s reputation, hiring plans, plans for growth and product development, along with general information regarding a company’s business and prospects. Locations: Primary locations outside of the headquarters, categorized by regions of the United States and by “International” locations. A “Y” in the appropriate field indicates “Yes.” A complete index by locations is in Chapter 6.

6

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

Chapter 1 AN OVERVIEW OF THE RETAIL INDUSTRY Trends and Statistics Thanks to strong consumer confidence, record gains on Wall Street, continued low unemployment and low interest rates, America's retailers enjoyed a strong 1998. During that year, U.S. cash registers rang up an estimated $2.7 trillion, about a quarter of that coming from general merchandise, apparel and furniture sales. Direct selling through on-line retailers, catalog companies and home shopping television channels is steadily increasing. In 1998, about $87.1 billion went to catalog retailers, up 8% percent from 1997. Sales via the Internet are expected to reach $30 billion by the year 2000, thanks to savvy marketing by Internet giants like Amazon.com, Dell Computer, Gateway and FTD. Purchasing merchandise via television home shopping channels racks up roughly $3 billion in annual sales. Companies engaged in this activity include Comcast, USA Network's Home Shopping Network and QVC. Strong retail growth translates into strong retail employment. According to the U.S Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics, as many as 877,000 new jobs in retail sales may be created through the year 2000. Also, with the aging of the baby boom population, demand should increase for many types of retail services. 1999 is off to a good start, as 1st quarter sales numbers indicate that

consumers are still not afraid to spend. Stores like Circuit City, American Eagle Outfitters, KMart, Family Dollar, Sam's Club and Sunglass Hut continue to post moderate to strong gains.

Growth in Retail Sales Total retail sales in the U.S. And percent change from previous year Total Retail Sales % change Year In Billions 1994 $2,229 7.5 1995 $2,329 4.5 1996 $2,461 5.7 1997 $2,566 4.3 1998 $2,696 5.1

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

7

Estimated Retail Sales by Kinds of Business (Data in billions of dollars) SIC code

Kind of business

1980 1985 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998

Unadjusted Retail sales, total Total (excl. automotive group) Durable goods, total 52 521,3,5 525

Building materials group stores Building materials, supply stores, hardware Building materials, supply stores

523

Hardware stores

553

Auto & home supply stores

957.4 1,375.0 1,759.0 1,844.6 1,855.9 1,951.6 2,074.5 2,237.0 2,340.6 2,465.4 2,695.9 2,566.2 NA

NA

NA

299.2

498.1

657.2

NA

NA

668.8 650.0

NA

703.6

777.5

NA

NA

NA

NA

50.8 35.0

71.2 50.8

92.4 67.5

8.3

10.5

18.0

NA 1,711.8 1,780.2 1,880.2 2,034.5 1,940.5 880.4

826.2

887.3 1,132.5 1,058.2

NA

NA

NA

122.7

124.7

132.9

166.1

150.5

94.6 70.3

91.5 68.2

100.8 75.4

109.6 82.4

107.2 93.0

109.3 85.6

116.6 102.2

142.2 126.9

130.7 116.1

12.6

12.5

12.1

12.7

13.2

14.2

13.7

14.4

15.2

14.6

25.2

29.5

30.8

29.6

29.8

30.8

33.0

34.7

36.8

38.9

37.9

57

Furniture group stores

44.2

68.3

91..3

91.5

91.7

97.0

105.7

119.4

129.9

136.8

159.3

146.7

571

Furniture & home furn. Stores

26.3

38.3

51.2

50.5

49.5

52.3

55.7

61.1

64.7

67.6

76.1

71.6

5712

Furniture stores

NA

23.9

31.9

30.8

30.2

31.2

33.4

36.1

38.1

39.4

45.3

42.8

Floor covering stores Household appl., radio, TV & 5722,31,34 computer stores

NA

7.9

10.7

10.7

10.1

10.4

10.6

11.4

11.0

11.6

14.5

13.1

5713

14.0

25.1

32.7

33.0

33.6

35.8

40.7

48.1

54.7

58.4

71.6

64.0

Household appliance stores

NA

8.4

9.3

8.8

8.3

8.4

9.0

8.8

8.8

8.6

10.7

10.2

Radio, TV and computer stores

NA

16.7

23.4

24.3

25.3

27.4

31.7

39.4

45.9

49.7

60.9

53.8

5941

Sporting goods stores and bicycle shops

NA

8.7

14.2

15.0

15.1

15.6

17.1

19.3

21.0

23.0

23.4

22.1

5942

Book stores

NA

4.5

6.5

7.4

7.7

8.3

9.0

10.0

10.3

10.7

13.0

12.7

5944

Jewelry stores

NA

11.2

14.4

15.2

14.7

15.3

16.5

17.8

19.4

21.0

22.3

20.5

5722 5731,34

8

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

Estimated Retail Sales by Kinds of Business (Data in billions of dollars) SIC code

53

Kind of business

1980 1985 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998

Nondurable goods, total

658.1

876.9 1,101.8 1,175.8 1,206.0 1,248.0 1,297.0 1,354.7 1,404.6 1,458.2

353.5

331.5

General merchandise group stores

109.0

158.6

206.3

215.5 226.7

246.4

264.6

283.2

296.9

309.4

353.5

331.5

165.8 172.9

531

Dept. stores (excl. leased depts.)

85.5

126.4

160.5

186.4

200.5

218.6

230.9

241.5

278.6

261.1

531

Dept. stores (incl. leased depts.)1 Conventional dep. stores (incl. leased depts.)1 Disc. dept. stores (incl. leased depts.)1 Nat. chain dept. stores (incl. leased depts.)1

NA

NA

NA

NA

NA

NA

NA

223.0

235.0

246.0

283.4

266.0

NA

NA

NA

NA

NA

NA

NA

53.6

54.3

55.4

56.5

55.4

NA

NA

NA

NA

NA

NA

NA

128.5

139.4

148.9

185.8

168.9

NA

NA

NA

NA

NA

NA

NA

40.9

41.3

40.6

41.1

41.7

7.8

8.5

7.9

8.3

8.3

9.5

9.0

8.1

7.6

8.2

11.9

11.5

15.7

23.8

37.8

41.4

45.5

50.5

55.1

56.5

58.4

59.7

62.9

58.8

531 pt 531 pt 531 pt 533 539

Variety stores Miscellaneous general merchandise stores

54

Food group stores

220.2

285.1

347.0

368.3 374.5

377.1

385.4

399.3

410.5

424.3

442.9

429.8

541

Grocery stores

205.6

269.5

328.1

348.2 354.3

358.1

365.7

378.6

389.1

401.8

414.6

403.0

554

Gasoline service stations

94.1

113.3

122.9

138.5 137.3

137.0

138.3

142.4

148.2

157.5

56

Apparel & accessory stores

49.3

70.2

92.3

104.2

107.2

109.9

110.0

113.1

123.9

117.9

561

Mens & boys clothing, furnishings

7.7

8.5

10.5

10.5

10.4

10.2

10.3

10.7

10.1

10.0

11.4

10.6

562,3

Women's clothing specialty stores

17.6

26.1

32.2

32.8

32.9

35.8

36.8

35.9

34.6

32.8

31.6

31.5

95.8

97.4

562

Women's ready to wear

15.9

23.6

29.0

29.8

29.9

31.8

33.0

32.0

30.7

28.6

25.5

26.1

565

Family clothing stores

10.8

17.8

26.4

28.4

30.5

33.2

34.9

37.2

38.7

42.9

48.6

45.1

566

Shoe stores

10.5

13.1

17.3

18.0

17.5

18.1

18.2

16.7

16.8

19.1

20.8

20.4

591

Drug & proprietary strores

31.0

47.0

63.3

70.6

75.5

77.8

79.6

81.4

84.2

89.2

105.7

98.1

592

Liquor stores

16.9

19.5

20.1

21.7

22.5

21.7

21.6

22.1

22.5

23.5

25.0

23.9

596

Nonstore retailers2

22.8

28.3

43.6

45.6

49.1

55.2

57.9

64.0

69.8

71.0

79.4

74.9

5961

Total non-store

NA

15.8

26.2

26.6

30.0

35.5

38.8

43.5

46.0

47.8

54.9

48.7

NA

NA

NA

NA

NA

NA

NA

595.3

624.6

655.8

736.0

689.8

NA

NA

NA

NA

NA

NA

NA

82.8

88.0

96.5

99.2

93.8

3

53,56,57,594 GAF, total Miscellaneous shopping goods 594 stores

1

NA Not available; GAF General, Apparel, and Furnishings; Based on 1987 Standard Industrial 2 3 Classification Code; Includes kinds of business, not shown seperately. Excludes leased departments.

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

Positive forces at work in the retail consumer market today include: • low personal savings rate = high personal expenditures • strong consumer confidence • extremely low unemployment • very low inflation • exciting new items, such as palm-top computers, with good consumer demand • strength in luxury items • rapid opening of new stores by prosperous chains • new levels of consumer household wealth due to stock portfolios and 401k plans that have seen huge gains in the past couple of years However, negative factors that will tend to hold retail sales back include: • • • •

interest rates that are rising modestly consumers with record high debt levels are defaulting on credit card balances at an alarming rate. volatility global financial volatility global financial markets significant continued layoffs at larger corporations require job migration and lead to large numbers of temp workers

Meanwhile, competition among retailers has never been tougher. A retailer without a significant competitive advantage doesn’t stand a chance. Superstores are battling each other on every major corner while direct-marketers are stealing customers from stores. This competition from direct-marketers is a point worth remembering: every dollar reaped by non-store direct-selling is a dollar taken away from a sale that would have been rung-up in a retail store. Direct-to-consumer selling already accounts for more than 2.6% of all non-automobile retail sales in the U.S.

9

Retailing in America has undergone a very painful and revolutionary retrenching over the past ten years, and big changes will continue to evolve. There are several identifiable trends at work. The most important are:

1. Continued decline of the mom-and-pop store 2. Problems for traditional, full-price chain stores 3. Repositioning of full-price/multi-line department stores 4. Supremacy of the discount store chains 5. Demise of the catalog showroom 6. Abundance of Category-Killer Superstores 7. Sophistication and success for directmarketers, including sales on the Internet 8. Repositioning of wholesale distributors 9. Continuous changes in demographics, tastes and fashions 10. Success for premium-priced stores 11. Down-selling 12. Advances in management information 13. Easy availability of consumer credit 14. Dwindling appeal of the major mall 15. Entertainment as a major draw to the retail environment A detailed discussion follows:

1) Continued decline of the Mom-and-Pop store Not long ago, casual and unsophisticated merchants could be relatively prosperous through the ownership and operation of a single store catering to general needs. For example, opening and running a bookstore was a relatively simple task in the past, and independent book stores were strewn all over American shopping centers. Owners of these stores could order most of the books they wanted to stock through a handful of jobbers and distributors, returning any books that didn’t sell. Consequently, while gross profit margins were low due to the markups taken by the distributors, these store owners faced little inventory risk and needed very little buying expertise. Furthermore, they didn’t particularly need to advertise. Instead, bookshops, like most mom-and-pop stores, relied heavily on neighborhood traffic. Retail prices were set by the books’ publishers and were printed on the

10

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

covers. Employee training was no more complicated than the operation of whatever cash register was in use. Today, such stores are dinosaurs. The book superstore has become the industry standard in only a few short years. These superstores carry tens of thousands of titles in well-lighted, wood-paneled layouts which look more like comfortable library reading rooms than traditional, cramped bookstores. Customers get huge discounts on books from the best-seller lists and may spend hours browsing through a dizzying array of categories. Shoppers can relax in reading chairs to peruse books before deciding to buy. Top-name authors stop by for autograph parties, and poetry and literary groups schedule meetings and readings for regular customers who sip a latte or espresso from the coffee bar. Meanwhile, book selling over the Internet is a huge and rapidly growing business, thanks to pioneer Amazon.com and to new sites offered by major retailers like Borders and Barnes & Noble. Barnes & Noble is currently the number one bookseller in the U.S., accounting for one out of every eight books sold! Barnes & Noble also recently launched its superstore concept at Mall of America in Bloomington, MN. The 30,000 square foot store showcases over 175,000 different book titles and more than 30,000 CDs and cassettes. There is absolutely no reason for a book customer (who has transportation to get to a superstore or access to the Internet) to go to a tiny, under-stocked, poorly staffed neighborhood bookstore. Book superstore pioneers like Gary Hoover of Austin, Texas, founder of the BookStop chain, now owned by Barnes & Noble, knew that traditional bookstores were hampered by inherent inconveniences that could be solved by the superstore format: • The traditional neighborhood bookstore was typically operated during hours of convenience to the owners. That is, they were likely to be closed at night and on Sundays and holidays -- prime leisure hours for consumers who want to shop.

•

• • • • •

Small floor plans and small budgets meant that there was no depth of selection from which to choose, particularly in backlist, classic and niche books. In some cases, small staffs and poor employee training meant customers' questions went unanswered. There was no money with which to advertise. There was not enough volume to attract special events like book signing parties. Special orders and other unique customer needs, such as gift-wrap, were often considered to be a pain in the neck. Profit levels were small, so discount prices were therefore not possible.

BookStop and the other book superstores changed consumers’ perceptions and methods of buying books by catering to the specific needs of book shoppers. The same story has been repeated over and over in dozens of other categories. (See “Category-Killer Superstores” below.) Today’s most successful, individually owned stores tend to be unique specialty shops catering to a very defined segment of the market. For example, small bookstores that only sell mysteries are popping up. Crafts stores that appeal only to consumers who want to make ceramic items such as pottery, paint these items in the store, and fire them in the store’s kiln are becoming popular. Finally, mom-and-pop stores that succeed must do so on the strength of personal service and individual relationships with their customers. For example, independently owned flower shops still thrive by operating personal charge accounts for their customers and by remembering their customers’ favorite flowers, gift recipients, birthdays and anniversaries. Likewise, most major cities have at least one large, independent hardware store that stays on top by having extremely knowledgeable and patient floor

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

11

Personal Consumption Expenditures in Current and Constant (1992) Dollars, by Type: 1990 to 1996 [in billions of dollars] CURRENT DOLLARS

EXPENDITURE Total expenditures

CONSTANT (1992) DOLLARS

1990 1994 1995 1996 1990 1994 1995 1996

1

3,839 4,717 4,958 5,208 4,132 4,486 4,595 4,714

1

Food and tobacco Food for off-premise consumption

673 405

762 452

784 462

806 478

714 423

735 435

738 433

737 435

218 42

254 47

264 49

269 50

232 51

245 47

249 47

247 47

263 32 174 31 57

313 36 212 38 68

323 37 218 39 72

336 38 226 42 76

279 34 184 34 61

309 36 211 36 66

322 37 221 37 68

335 38 230 40 70

Housing Owner-occupied nonfarm dwellings-space rent Tenant-occupied nonfarm dwellings-space rent

586 411 150

713 507 174

750 532 185

787 558 194

627 438 160

674 480 165

688 487 171

700 495 175

1

436

535

563

592

457

515

534

548

Purchased meals and beverages Tobacco products

2

Clothing, accessories, and jewelry Shoes Clothing Jewelry and watches Personal care

1

1

Household operation Furniture

3 4

Semidurable house furnishings Cleaning and polishing preparations Household utilities Electricity Gas Water and other sanitary services Fuel oil and coal Telephone and telegraph Medical care

1

Drug preparations and sundries Physicians Dentists Hospitals and nursing homes Health insurance Medical care

5

6

7

Personal business

1

Expense of handling life insurance Legal services Funeral and burial expenses Transportation 1

8

User-operated transportation New autos Net purchases of used autos Tires, tubes, accessories, etc. Repair, greasing, washing, parking, etc. Gasoline and oil Purchased local transportation Mass transit systems Taxicab

39

46

48

50

41

43

44

45

21 42 138 72 27 28 12 60

27 51 164 84 32 37 11 83

29 52 169 88 32 39 10 90

30 55 178 90 35 41 12 97

22 44 147 76 28 32 11 61

26 50 156 83 30 33 11 80

27 50 159 84 31 34 11 87

28 51 163 85 33 35 11 91

616

826

872

913

691

751

766

782

65 141 33

82 180 44

86 191 48

91 197 51

75 159 38

77 162 40

79 166 41

82 169 42

266 37

357 55

376 54

394 56

299 41

332 40

337 38

343 37

31

43

41

42

35

37

35

35

290

370

389

421

331

352

351

364

56 42 9 463

73 49 11 542

75 49 12 572

80 52 13 602

61 46 10 491

68 45 10 515

68 44 11 528

69 45 10 540

427 92 32 29 84 97 8 5 3

503 91 44 35 116 109 9 6 3

530 87 52 36 129 114 9 6 3

558 86 55 38 140 123 10 7 4

454 98 35 30 95 108 9 6 3

477 86 38 35 109 110 9 6 3

488 81 41 36 117 113 9 6 3

498 78 42 38 123 114 9 6 3

12

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 Personal Consumption Expenditures in Current and Constant (1992) Dollars, by Type: 1990 to 1996, continued [in billions of dollars]

EXPENDITURE Purchased intercity transportation Railway (commutation) Bus Airline 1

1

Recreation Magazines, newspapers, and sheet music Nondurable toys and sport supplies Video & audio prod., comp. equip., instru. Education and research Higher education Religious and welfare activities Foreign travel and other, net Foreign travel by U.S. residents Less: Expen. in U.S. by nonresidents 1

CURRENT DOLLARS

CONSTANT (1992) DOLLARS

1990 1994 1995 1996 1990 1994 1995 1996 29 1 1 24

31 1 1 26

33 1 1 28

34 1 1 28

29 1 1 24

30 1 1 26

32 1 1 27

34 1 1 29

282 22 32 54 81 44 100 -7 41 52

370 25 40 79 105 59 131 -18 50 70

403 26 42 85 112 62 140 -22 52 75

431 27 45 90 120 65 151 -27 55 83

292 24 33 48 89 50 107 -8 46 58

365 23 39 87 97 53 126 -16 49 66

396 23 41 102 99 54 129 -20 49 60

424 23 44 120 103 54 137 -22 51 74

Includes other expenditures not shown separately. 2 Consists of purchases (including tips) of meals and beverages from retail, service, and amusement establishments; hotels; dining and buffet cars; schools; school fraternities; institutions; clubs; and industrial lunch rooms. Includes meals and beverages consumed both on and off-premise. 3 Includes mattresses and bedsprings. 4 Consists largely of textile house furnishings including piece goods allocated to house furnishing use. Also includes lamp shades, brooms, and brushes. 5 Excludes drug preparations and related products dispensed by physicians, hospitals, and other medical services. 6 Consists of (1) current expenditures (including consumption of fixed capital) of nonprofit hospitals and nursing homes and (2) payments by patients to proprietary and government hospitals and nursing homes. 7 Consists of (1) premiums, less benefits and dividends, for health hospitalization and accidental death and dismemberment insurance provided by commercial insurance carriers and (2) administrative expenses (including consumption of fixed capital) of Blue Cross and Blue Shield plans and of other independent prepaid and self-insured health plans. 8 Consists of (1) operating expenses of life insurance carriers and private noninsured pension plans and (2) premiums less benefits and dividends of fraternal benefit societies. Excludes expenses allocated by commercial carriers to accident and health insurance. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, National Income and Product Accounts of the United States, 1929-94,Vol 1;and Survey of Current Business, August 1997. U.S. Census Bureau, the Official Statistics TM Statistical Abstract of the United States: 1998 Oct. 20, 1998

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

personnel who have known their customers for years. In the absence of personal relationships with the employees in an independent store, many shoppers will opt for the apparent stability and reliability (and frequently discounted prices) of a chain store. Shoppers who decide to buy from a major chain, rather than a mom-and-pop store, know that a chain store is more likely to be around in the future if the customer has a problem. If the customer moves, it is likely that the chain store will outlet in the next town or neighborhood. Chains are also more likely to have a defined and enforced money-back guarantee policy. 2) Problems for traditional, full-price chain stores Ten or twenty years ago, a chain of retail stores could be successful simply by becoming a chain. That is, the buying power, advertising power, real estate leasing power, operating efficiencies and consumer recognition achieved by consolidating existing stores into a national chain (or creating new stores to steal market share from non-chain mom-and-pop stores) spelled success. Today, however, much more is needed from store chains to maintain profitability and market share. Today’s consumers are sophisticated and demanding, wanting depth of selection, ease of access, superior service, and total guarantees of satisfaction and rock-bottom prices -- all at once. A chain of stores that can deliver all of these requirements reaps a compelling competitive benefit. Full-price chains operating with old-fashioned methods won’t survive. 3) Repositioning the full-price, multiline department store Traditional department stores have experienced problems of their own. Not long ago, major department stores succeeded by being all things to all customers. Remember Sears Roebuck’s “Sears has everything” line? Or do you remember going into Saks Fifth Ave. and finding everything from haute couture to a travel

13

agency to a restaurant, plus a hair salon, a toy department and a fine jewelry department -- all at full price? Major department store chains went broke by the score in the 1980s. Companies like Neimans, Saks, Allied and Federated had to alter methods, reposition themselves, and seek new financial resources in order to survive (some had to overcome financial pressure caused by excessive leverage or overly-aggressive expansion). They needed to learn to utilize advanced information systems and inventory methods. In addition, they had to offer value. Habitually successful department stores are those on the leading edge of modern retailing. Nordstrom, for example, prospers by offering the utmost in personal service combined with unique and high quality merchandise. Dillard’s maintains its long-term record of profitable growth by harnessing the power of advanced computer systems to project sales and manage inventory. Also, Dillard’s positions itself in the mind of the consumer as a store that offers everyday fair pricing. Generally speaking, today’s successful department stores are no longer general merchandise stores. Instead, they have repositioned themselves as giant clothing stores -- floor upon floor of shoes, career wear, coats, accessories, dresses, men’s items, children’s clothing and evening wear. Aggressive advertising and frequent sales promotions are used to move the merchandise. Due to everchanging fashions and fickle consumer tastes, buying expertise is critical. 4) Supremacy of the discount store chains Wal-Mart might as well be the first mention in this category. In a mere twenty-five year span, Wal-Mart has flourished into the nation's top retailer (a bragging right that Sears Roebuck & Co. clamed in the 1960s). How does the Wal-Mart method work? Primarily, it meets the simple needs of everyday consumers by using money-back guarantees, everyday low prices, merchandise that is never out of stock, ease of access, and floor help trained to pounce upon customers with an offer of help. Interestingly, Wal-Mart was first conceptualized

14

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

as a rural store -- a modern general store if you will -- located in smaller communities that lacked much in the way of local shopping facilities. However, once it conquered hundreds of small towns, Wal-Mart branched out into major metro areas with astonishing success. Obviously, urban shoppers need the same service and low prices as rural ones. What Wal-Mart, Costco and other discount stores lack in profit margin, they make up for exponentially in volume. Many of these stores operate around the clock. 5) Demise of the catalog showroom Once upon a time, the catalog showroom was a source of big profits but also a big rat-like maze for the customer. The convoluted process went like this: • The customer entered a showroom, like those of the now defunct Bests chain, browsed merchandise samples on shelves or in a catalog and was required to fill out a request for the merchandise. • The customer was then directed to the order desk to turn in their request slip (where they frequently learned that the item requested was out of stock). • The next hoop was the checkout line to wait for their merchandise to appear from a conveyor belt. Finally, they were allowed to pay for the items and leave the store. It was a painful experience, and the low prices and huge quantities of merchandise on hand at places like Wal-Mart and Target killed the business. 6) Abundance of Category-Killer Superstores Category-killers currently account for ten percent of all U.S. sales. Toys ‘R’ Us is widely accepted as the first true “category-killer.” That is to say, it is constructed like a warehouse store, roughly one acre in size, and stacked to the ceiling with every conceivable type of toy. It squashed mom-and-pop toy stores like a grape. Other category-killers emerged, including Best Buy, Circuit City, and Linens ‘n Things. Special types of shopping centers, known as "power centers,” were invented to house these

superstores. Some stores opened in massive, freestanding buildings on major roads, referred to by real estate professionals as “white boxes.” Today, category-killers like Home Depot, OfficeMax, Bed Bath & Beyond and Sports Authority are ubiquitous, dominant retailers in dozens of retailing segments. All have tremendous buying and advertising power. All offer significantly lower prices than do traditional retailers, while at the same time offering a fantastic depth of merchandise from which to choose. In fact, there can be too much of a good thing in retailing, and there may be too many superstore chains in some categories. Mergers and failures will have already begun, such as the closure of the Incredible Universe computer and electronics stores. Sales growth at some companies such as Toys ‘R’ Us has slowed, and profit margins are under pressure at some superstore chains. 7) Sophistication and success for directmarketers, including sales on the Internet (Also, see Chapter 3, “On-line Retailing and Non-Store Retailing,” and Plunkett's ECommerce & Internet Business Almanac) Several factors are at work here. First, let’s define direct-marketers to include firms that operate way beyond the realm of traditional mail order. Direct-marketing and direct-selling includes thousands of companies offering unique niche catalogs, television home-shopping channels, firms selling through party-like events in the home and through other individual sales reps, telemarketers, hundreds of thousands of World Wide Web-based retail sites and firms using other non-store methods. While shopping by catalogs or other alternatives may save time and energy for consumers, it frequently does not save them money in terms of retail price paid. Shopping via full-price catalogs is for people who may have more disposable income than disposable time. On the other hand, some directselling retailers offer very unique merchandise generally not found in stores. This is particularly true in categories such as collectibles, gourmet or imported foods and hand-crafted items, where

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

low volume of output combined with a unique niche of consumers creates an ideal situation for successful direct-selling. Extremely sophisticated database software now lets direct-marketers mail or telephone their offerings to well-targeted groups. For example, matching such data as home value, occupation, credit rating and automobile type owned against a database of residents in a particular city may identify those most likely to purchase a particular item or line of merchandise. Here is an excellent example of the power of sophisticated direct-marketing: for a maker of high-priced, unsinkable swimming pool floats (floats made of a dense, rubber-like foam that is finished with several layers of latex coating), a mailing campaign was targeted to swimming pool owners living in upscale zip codes (Beverly Hills), in warm weather states (Texas, California, Arizona and Florida) and American Express Card holders who bought gift items from expensive mail order catalogs. The results were booming direct sales for the float maker. Added to the campaign were full-page, full-color magazine ads that reach the same types of demographic profiles, such as ads placed in publications like Delta Sky and Architectural Digest. Dramatic photos in these ads showed the float still working well after being punctured by large knives. The product was an instant success and was quickly copied by other makers. Today, the float and its imitators, once a very unique product available only by mail order, can be found on the shelves of pool supply stores and discount department stores. Telemarketers use the same type of sophistication to determine which homes to call. To get a grasp of the ability of today’s databases, do a thorough study of software maker Fair, Isaacs & Co. (profiled in this book). Fair Isaacs develops software that allows banks to decide which consumers have acceptable credit records and demographic profiles for use in mail and phone credit card offers. Today’s so-called “telephone centers” are staffed with well-trained order-takers and customer service representatives at both

15

traditional and non-store retailing firms. Consumer calls are routed to these centers, where operators use the latest in database and telecommunications technology to expertly answer questions, take orders, and suggest highprofit-margin upgrades to those orders. Special software in the call centers keeps track of a customer’s questions, complaints, purchases and needs. In seconds, an operator can see a customer’s complete, long-term history of purchases and other activities with a simple keystroke on the computer. This not only provides faster and more thorough customer service, it may also give the customer a false sense of a personal relationship. Internet-based retail sites can offer the convenience of shopping from home. Powerful search engines enable cyber consumers to look for exactly the right items. This can be extremely effective when the merchandise involved covers a massive number of choices within one category, such as books. The best current example may be Amazon.com, the online bookstore where consumers can search quickly through a database of more than one million book titles to find what they want. Not even the book superstores can offer the depth of selection and ease of shopping offered by such an on-line seller. Amazon experienced a whopping $610 million in sales in 1998, an astounding 312% increase over the previous year. By putting market share ahead of profits, Amazon is driving book publishers to establish their own direct-sales Web sites. Meanwhile, store-based retailers are getting into the Internet game as ancillary businesses, with new sites offered by major department stores and even discount stores such as Wal-Mart. In major markets, a small company called Peapod now offers on-line shopping that will result in home delivery from your favorite grocery store a few minutes later. The personal computer business provides an excellent example of the transformation of the retail industry. Initially, this particular industry relied heavily on wholesale distributors -distributors that warehoused components, built the computer, and then forwarded them to

16

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

retailers on an as-needed basis. High-volume computer retailers like CompUSA then emerged, and with them, high-volume manufactures like Compaq. At the same time, direct-sellers like Dell and Gateway scored big successes by concentrating their efforts away from store-based retail activity. Today, manufacturers like Compaq are becoming direct-sellers themselves, publishing catalogs, running direct-selling ads and operating outlet stores. 8) Repositioning of wholesale distributors Because mom-and-pop stores had little buying expertise or storage space, many types of small, traditional retail stores relied on the middlemen – distributors -- to provide retail inventories. The large distributors could gather knowledge about what consumers wanted, purchase merchandise from all over the world, warehouse it, and deliver it, at a markup, to the retailers. However, many of today’s large retailers have their own buying offices overseas. Companies like Wal-Mart and Food Lion have eliminated the middleman by operating highly sophisticated distribution centers of their own, sometimes more than one million square feet in size, strategically located to serve stores within about a two hundred mile radius. Wholesale distributors that succeed today do so because they offer prompt delivery of needed merchandise combined with low costs and electronic data interchange to calculate and fill inventory needs. Also, the wholesale distribution business is one of the major segments to be effected by the growing trend towards direct-selling via the Internet. When manufacturers sell goods directly to end consumers through Internet, and deliver those goods directly via UPS or other means, wholesale distributors are cut out entirely. As a result, some savvy distributors, particularly in the personal computer industry, are entering the direct-sales business themselves, setting up very sophisticated Internet sites of their own.

9) Continuous changes in demographics, tastes and fashions Consumers may be growing weary of shopping. One recent survey suggests shopping has become more of a chore than a leisure activity. Meanwhile, some consumers have multiple credit cards charged to the limits and are worried about the stability of their jobs. Simply put, the world of the consumer is always dynamic. Shoppers will drive further for better prices, and they are willing to buy in large quantities in order to get bargains. Consequently, Sam’s Clubs continue to be highly successful and rely on a customer base that either pools their large quantity purchases with their neighbors or fills their garages with long-term supplies of pet food, toilet paper and spaghetti sauce. Consumers are aging, and the Baby Boom generation (a large segment of the U.S. population) is getting older and wealthier. They demand lower prices on day-to-day items but at the same time are willing to pay top dollar for prestigious luxury goods. Successful store designs of the 21st Century will include features that cater to the demands and needs of the 65+ age group. These features include brighter lighting, larger letters on labels and signs, better security, and maybe even assistance with parking and loading the car for those who need it. In the year 1900, only 4% of the U.S. population was over sixty-five years of age. Today, they account for 13% of the population. After the year 2012, the number of elderly people in America will grow at a tremendous rate as the first of the baby boomers (those born in 1947 and after) reach age sixty-five and start to retire. While tastes will change with time and with changes in the demographic makeup of the consumer base, the basics required to appeal to demanding customers will remain the same. A successful retailer will offer value, service, depth of merchandise, ease of access, strong moneyback guarantees, plus unique merchandise and services or true expertise in a given segment.

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

10) Success for premium-priced stores While the general consumer has become very value oriented, there remains a highly profitable premium market. Stores like Neiman Marcus and Tiffany & Co. are enjoying success by catering to upper-income consumers who care more about fashion, ambiance, uniqueness, service and selection when they enter the store. Many of them also want merchandise with the snob appeal of a blue-blood store behind it. Some of the finer stores offer personal shoppers who will assist busy, affluent customers by bringing a customized selection of merchandise or gifts to their homes or offices for consideration. 11) Down-selling Meanwhile, low-priced chains are positioning themselves for the growing number of families that are at the lower end of the income spectrum. For example, Gap stores have achieved great success with their recent Old Navy concept. Old Navy offers clothing with the same fashionable styling and selection as the regular Gap stores at much lower prices and with reduced detail of finish and quality of material. Wages for the bottom half of the population are stagnant. That’s one of the reasons why we have two-income households today, and also why Americans are flocking to discount stores like Wal-Mart by the tens of millions -- they have done a complete turnaround in terms of affluence and buying power. Meanwhile, those at the very top of the income scale have seen their wealth and income skyrocket in recent years. 12) Advances in management information Beginning with the basics, an increasing number of retailers are utilizing “point-of-sale” computer systems today. That is, bar code scanners immediately capture sales information at the cash register, adjust the inventory in the computer and reorder merchandise automatically. This technology has been around for a long time and helps companies like WalMart and Dillards to become giants in their segments. Nonetheless, many chains were slow

17

to adopt it. The most advanced point-of-sale systems prompt cashiers with suggestions of additional merchandise that might go well with the items being purchased. Now, data warehousing and data mining are becoming the hottest technologies for leading-edge retailers. Data warehousing involves collecting all possible data about customers, shopping patterns, merchandise movement and sales results at the micro level -within regions or small clusters of stores -- in order to fully understand today’s results and then fine-tune tomorrow’s merchandise and marketing. It would be fair to say that this is database management at its best. For example, a clothing retailer may find that an item sells ten times as well in a certain color in Miami than it does in Milwaukee. This information is then used to keep the right combinations and concentrations of merchandise in stock in the right places at the right times. Technologies being used with success also include shopper ID card systems (frequent buyer cards), interactive kiosks and catalogs on CD-ROM, such as the electronic catalog published by Spiegel. In many cases, technology can be used both to increase the flow of management information and to enhance the shopper’s experience and perception of service. In addition, leading-edge retailers, such as Home Depot and Wal-Mart, are using direct-broadcast satellite television to reach the entire retail chain of stores and its employees with broadcasts from the home office. Now, data warehousing and data mining are becoming the hottest technologies for leadingedge retailers. Data warehousing involves collecting all possible data about customers, shopping patterns, merchandise movement, and sales results at the micro level--within regions or small clusters of stores--in order to full understand today’s results and then fine-tune tomorrow’s merchandise and marketing. It would be fair to say that this is database management at its best. For example, a clothing retailer may find that an item sells ten times as well in a certain color in Miami than it does in Milwaukee. This information is then used to

18

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

keep the right combinations and concentrations of merchandise in stock in the right places at the right times. Technologies being used with success also include shopper ID card systems (frequent buyer cards), interactive kiosks, and catalogs on CD-ROM--such as the electronic catalog published by Spiegels. In many cases, technology can be used both to increase the flow of management information and to enhance the shopper’s experience and perception of service. In addition, leading-edge retailers, such as Home Depot and Wal-Mart, are using direct-broadcast satellite television to reach the entire retail chain of stores and its employees with broadcasts from the home office. Meanwhile, new applications software is providing interconnections to other software that has been written on competing platforms (for example, enabling UNIX-based applications to connect with Windows-based software). This linking is rapidly leading to enhanced overviews at corporate headquarters of information gathered instantaneously from the field which, in turn, is leading to new levels of software use that were only dreamed of a few years ago. For example, “workgroup” programs like Peoplesoft and SAP consist of highly-detailed software utilizing modular programming that anticipates and links totally different parts of a business’ operations. In a retail enterprise, this software can link many functions, including customer service, buying, warehousing, delivery, point-of-sale, and strategic planning, even though each of these may be based on different computer platforms. These departments might find that their plans and schedules are automatically changed or updated by a single entry in a remote but vital office. For example, a fire might occur in a warehouse in Buffalo, New York, destroying a large amount of merchandise. The central inventory system in Chicago would record the loss, and all other departments and functions worldwide would automatically have their forecasts and schedules adjusted. The new popularity of these workflow programs is now economically feasible because of the vastly increased speed and power of

today’s computer processors and recent advancements in common modules of programming code. The next advancement will come as these workflow models are applied via the Internet, whenever security and performance risks are fully resolved. Once e-commerce is standardized, it will be simple for retailers to become more deeply “partnered” with their manufacturers. These manufacturers of merchandise that is ultimately sold by a retail chain’s stores will be able to access and update a retail company’s workflow models, providing data about the vendors’ manufacturing, shipping and sales schedules. This will enhance both punctual delivery and availability of popular, rapidly selling merchandise. 13) Easy availability of consumer credit At least three billion credit card offers are mailed to hopefully credit-worthy consumers in America each year. Financial institutions offer low, introductory interest rates and lines of credit frequently exceeding $10,000. Many consumers just can’t resist the temptation of a shopping spree paid for later in easy monthly installments. Manufacturers and retailers offer their own credit

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

19

Consumer credit outstanding, 1960-98 (Amount outstanding [end of month]; billions of dollars, seasonally adjusted) Total 1 2 Year and month (Dec.) Other Consumer Automobile Revolving Credit 1960.................................................. 60.0 18.1 .............. 41.8 1961.................................................. 62.3 17.7 .............. 44.5 1962.................................................. 68.2 20.0 .............. 48.1 1963.................................................. 76.6 22.9 .............. 53.7 1964.................................................. 86.0 25.9 .............. 60.1 1965.................................................. 95.9 29.4 .............. 66.6 1966.................................................. 101.8 31.0 .............. 70.8 1967.................................................. 106.7 31.1 .............. 75.7 1968.................................................. 117.2 34.4 2.0 81.0 1969.................................................. 126.9 36.9 3.6 86.6 1970.................................................. 131.6 36.3 4.9 90.2 1971.................................................. 147.1 40.5 8.3 98.1 1972.................................................. 166.0 47.8 9.4 108.9 1973.................................................. 190.6 53.7 11.3 124.9 1974.................................................. 199.4 54.2 13.2 131.3 1975.................................................. 205.0 57.0 14.5 132.3 1976.................................................. 228.2 66.8 16.6 140.2 1977.................................................. 263.8 80.9 36.7 141.8 1978.................................................. 308.3 98.7 45.2 161.0 1979.................................................. 347.5 112.5 53.4 181.5 1980.................................................. 350.3 112.0 55.1 183.0 1981.................................................. 366.9 119.0 61.1 186.7 1982.................................................. 383.1 125.9 66.5 190.7 1983.................................................. 431.2 143.6 79.1 208.4 1984.................................................. 511.3 173.6 100.3 237.1 1985.................................................. 591.3 210.2 121.8 257.1 1986.................................................. 648.0 247.8 135.8 258.0 1987.................................................. 680.0 266.3 153.1 249.3 1988 \3\...........................................… 729.1 285.4 174.3 249.1 1989.................................................. 782.1 291.5 199.2 276.9 1990.................................................. 797.3 283.1 223.5 267.2 1991.................................................. 781.0 259.6 245.3 250.1 1992.................................................. 786.4 257.4 258.1 239.0 1993.................................................. 843.3 280.6 286.6 241.1 1994.................................................. 961.1 317.2 334.5 267.1 P

1995 ................................................ 1996………………… 1997................................................ 1998…………………

1087.8 1227.1 1233.1 1299.2

353.1 380.9 413.3 447.0

394.8 487.0 531.1 560.5

288.3 290.1 288.6 291.7

1 Consists of credit cards at retailers, gasoline companies, and commercial banks. Excludes 30-day charge credit held by travel and entertainment companies. Prior to 1968, included in "other," except gasoline companies included in noninstallment credit prior to 1971. Beginning 1977, includes open-end credit at retailers, previously include in "other." Also beginning 1977, some retail credit was reclassified from commercial into consumer credit. 2 Includes mobile home loans and all other installment loans not included in automobile or revolving credit, such as loans for education, boats, trailers, or vacations. These loans may be secured or unsecured. 3 Data newly available in January 1989 result in breaks in many series between December 1988 and subsequent months.

20

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

cards as well, including Circuit City, Target and CompUSA cards (actually administered by Hurley Bank, a third-party, private credit card company). Credit has never been easier to get, and easy credit is driving sales at retailers who know how to take advantage of the situation. However, consumers are also feeling the burden of owing too much. Credit card use at the cash register grew 8% for the first four months of 1999, compared to 6.9% during the same period of 1998 and 8.2% in the first four months of 1997. Rising numbers of personal bankruptcies are also hurting credit card sales. In 1998, over 1.3 million people filed for bankruptcy, the highest number in our nation’s history. 14) Dwindling appeal of the major mall (Also, see Chapter 4, “Shopping Centers”) Fifteen years ago, the major mall was the shopping destination of choice, offering hundreds of stores and more than one million square feet of selling space. Today’s preferred shopping site is more likely to be a Sam’s Club, a Target or a power center. Malls are losing market share to discount stores, power centers and superstore-based corners that offer many amenities other than low price and wide selection. Customers also want to be able to park near the door and shop around the clock every day. Large numbers of major malls will either close or greatly reposition themselves over the coming decade. They must adapt or fail. Much of that adaptation will center around becoming a one-stop entertainment (see "entertainment" below), dining and shopping destination of broader appeal than that offered by mere food courts and movie theaters adjacent to shops. Meanwhile, the outlet mall has become widespread, made popular by the bargain-hungry status of today’s consumer. As a result, many firms that were previously mere manufacturers have become owners and operators of large outlet store chains. This is particularly true in the apparel industry.

15) Entertainment as a major draw to the retail environment Since the earliest days of the marketplace, merchants have realized that entertainment draws crowds of people who linger and shop. Even during the Dark Ages, jugglers, storytellers and other entertainers were an integral part of the public markets, helping to draw throngs of people who might purchase goods. For the foreseeable future, entertainment's value as a drawing card for retail customers will become of paramount importance, especially for the retailing of goods beyond everyday staple items. In fact, the explosive growth of retailing over the Internet means that reatilers must offer more than the mere availability of merchandise in order to lure shoppers out of their homes, away from their computer screens and Web browers, and out to the retail store. If you have any doubts about the emphasis being placed on entertainment within retailing, consider the following examples: Sony Corp. opened its Sony Metreon complex in San Francisco during the summer of 1999, at a cost of $85 million. An estimated 150,000 visitors toured it during the first five days alone. The Metreon complex covers 350,000 square feet on four floors and is wisely located near the convention center. At Metreon, shoppers can enjoy entertainment to the max, with 15 movie screens, an IMAX theater, eight restaurants, large numbers of retail stores and entertainment attractions that would rival those in any amusement park. This complex is such an exciting retail venue that Microsoft opened its first retail store here. Also during 1999, Walt Disney Co. opened DisneyQuest, which it bills as an indoor interactive theme park, in downtown Chicago. Super-savvy designer/retailer Ralph Lauren has opened extravagant retail stores in high traffic areas such as Chicago's Miracle Mile. There, the Lauren firm spent more than $30 million building an astonishing property that feels like an English squire's country manor house rather than a store. Filled to overflowing

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

21

Personal Consumption Expenditures by Major Type of Product (Billions of dollars)

Personal consumption expenditures Durable goods Motor vehicles and parts Furniture and household equipment Other Nondurable goods Food Clothing and shoes Gasoline and oil Fuel oil and coal Other Services Housing Household operation Electricity and gas Other household operation Transportation Medical care Other

1997

1998

5,493.7 673.0 269.5 271.4 132.1 1,600.6 780.9 278.0 126.5 11.2 403.9 3220.1 829.8 327.3 126.2 201.1 240.3 843.4 979.3

5,807.9 724.7 290.5 292.2 141.9 1,662.4 815.3 293.8 112.1 9.6 431.6 3420.8 877.9 338.6 122.1 216.5 252.7 888.2 1063.5

1997 IV 5,593.2 682.2 271.6 276 134.6 1,613.2 787.7 280.7 125.9 10.7 408.8 3297.8 847 337 129.2 207.8 246.3 857.9 1009.5

Seasonally adjusted at annual rates 1998 I II III IV 5,676.5 5,773.7 5,846.7 5,934.8 705.1 720.1 718.9 754.5 277 288.8 282.6 313.6 288.5 288.9 294.1 297.3 139.6 142.3 142.2 143.6 1,633.1 1,655.2 1,670.0 1,691.3 796.9 810.2 818.7 835.6 291.0 295.3 293.7 295.1 116.2 111.6 111.7 109.0 9.5 9.8 9.8 9.0 419.4 428.3 436.2 442.7 3338.2 3398.4 3457.7 3488.9 859.1 871.9 883.8 896.7 327.6 339.2 348.4 339 116.8 124.1 129.8 117.6 210.9 215.1 218.5 221.5 249.5 253.2 253.4 254.8 871.5 884.2 893 904 1030.5 1049.8 1079.1 1094.4

1999 I 6,047.1 768.8 310.2 308.5 150.1 1,734.9 841.8 308.7 109.0 9.9 465.5 3543.5 908.3 346.7 122.8 223.9 258.3 916.5 1113.8

Real Personal Consumption Expenditures by Major Type of Product (Billions of chained 1992 dollars)

Personal consumption expenditures Durable goods Motor vehicles and parts Furniture and household equipment Other Nondurable goods Food Clothing and shoes Gasoline and oil Fuel oil and coal Other Services Housing Household operation Electricity and gas Other household operation Transportation Medical care Other Residual

1997

1998

4,913.5 686.6 239.3 307.7 127.7 1,486.3 699.3 288.4 117.9 10.3 373.0 2761.5 717.4 301.3 116 185.1 212.2 701.7 830.5

5,153.3 737.1 259.6 347.3 138.5 1,544.1 718.0 310.3 119.9 9.6 390.3 2879.5 735 316.8 116.2 200.5 220.4 723.2 886

1997 IV 4,981.0 684.8 242.7 318.1 130.8 1,494.3 699.9 292.3 118.1 10.1 376.8 2804.8 723.9 311.1 118.4 192.5 215.9 709.4 846.6

-13

-21.5

-14.5

Seasonally adjusted at annual rates 1998 I II III IV 5,055.1 5,130.2 5,181.8 5,246.0 710.3 729.4 733.7 775.0 247.8 258.9 252.6 279.3 335.8 339.3 352.0 362.1 135.1 138.6 139.1 141 1,521.2 1,540.9 1,549.1 1,565.1 706.8 716.3 718.9 730.1 307.4 311.4 309.8 312.5 118.5 118.4 121.1 121.5 9.2 9.7 9.9 9.5 383.5 389.2 393.4 395.2 2829.3 2866.8 2904.8 2917.2 728.7 732.7 737.1 741.5 306.3 316.5 326.3 318.2 110.5 117.4 123.8 112.9 195.6 198.9 202.4 205 217.9 221.4 220.5 221.8 714.9 721.6 725.3 730.8 862.9 876.7 898.2 906.3 -19.5

-20.3

-22.3

-23.5

1999 I 5,331.9 796.4 278.1 380.3 148.2 1,599.9 732.2 333.7 123.0 10.6 406.7 2949.7 746.9 325.7 117.9 207.5 224 736 919.2 -32.4

22

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

with antiques and art, it's entertaining to simply walk through the store. By the way, you can spend a small fortune while there, if you're in the mood. Lauren is considering adding an upscale restaurant to their similar property in Manhattan. The Mills Corp., an Arlingon, Virginia real estate investment trust that owns several major regional malls, is considering charging admission to enter portions of the 400,000 square foot entertainment area in the 1.4 million square foot Arundel Mills mall currently under construction in Maryland. Retailing remains one of the largest employment sectors. Pure retailers that rank among the Largest Private-Sector, Publicly-Held Employers in the U.S.: Company Wal-Mart Sears, Roebuck Kmart J.C. Penney Dayton Hudson Kroger The Limited American Stores Safeway Federated Dept. Stores May Dept. Stores Publix Super Markets Home Depot Winn-Dixie Stores Albertson’s Venator Group, Inc.

Employees 825,000 335,000 275,000 260,000 254,000 160,000 123,100 122,000 119,000 117,100 111,000 103,000 97,912 88,000 88,000 75,118

Notes on Sales and Trends in Selected Segments General More than 40 of the world's top 100 retailers are located in the U.S. 1999 is starting out strong for retail sales. Consumer confidence remains high and with that, consumer spending continues to grow.

Apparel Several slow-occurring but nonetheless important changes are taking place in specialty apparel retailing. For the past decade, the clothes-buying consumer has been trained to wait for retailers to put clothes on sale. This generally happened about two weeks before Christmas and at other key dates during the year when stores began to get nervous about slow sales and the mountains of merchandise on hand. Today, however, many stores are keeping leaner inventories--partly thanks to improved management information systems that let them keep better track of stocking and merchandise movement. Concurrently, many clothing retailers are switching to more of an everydayvalue-pricing stance. Slowly but surely, firms like Macy’s and Ann Taylor hope to alter customers’ behavior and train them not to expect the massive sale events of 40% to 75% of the past. High consumer confidence and popular new fashion designs are encouraging customers buy today’s fashions on credit, after a two year lag in this trend. Meanwhile, men’s fashions are racing toward the casual side, and sellers of men’s clothing who prosper will be those who carry a greatly enhanced selection of casual wear. Also, sales of athletic apparel and footwear are soaring. Discount stores are putting more emphasis on apparel, which is having a strong impact on lower-end apparel specialty store chains. For example, Wal-Mart is establishing its own line of apparel carrying the names of celebrities at everyday-low-pricing. Sears and J.C. Penney have each launched private-label jeans lines with names like Arizona Jean Co. that are quickly gaining customer acceptance. Meanwhile, department stores of all types are trying harder to build market share in apparel. Some stores are shifting their focus away from younger buyers to the 30 to 50 year age range, a growing segment of the American population that yields important purchasing power.

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

Computers The biggest news here is the incredible acceleration of the growth of worldwide directseller Dell Computer based in Austin, Texas. The company has grown at a rate much higher than that of the industry. Dell has long used a combination of frequently mailed catalogs plus magazine ads to move its products while virtually ignoring store-based retailing, except for its outlet store in Austin. Now Dell has, by far, one of the most-productive retail sales sites on the Internet, with Web sales revenues nearing an unbelievable $18 million per day in the first quarter of 1999! Sales via the Net account for 30 percent of Dell's revenue. Meanwhile, Compaq, the hottest name in personal computers, has decided to adapt many practices pioneered by Dell. Compaq is aggressively advertising its own outlet store in Houston, Texas, and advertising heavily to build direct sales. Convenience Stores With a heightened emphasis on fast foods and user-friendly gasoline pump areas, convenience stores are enjoying healthy same-store sales growth -- particularly at Circle K's and UniMarts. Other stores that were once suffering from deep financial problems are now enjoying good levels of profits. Southland Corporation’s 7-11 stores are posting good earnings now that the company has divested a large number of stores, and Circle K, in bankruptcy a few years ago, is rebounding with new concepts in layout and fast food. The total number of convenience stores in the nation stands at about 100,000 (that equals nearly one convenience store for every 3,000 people), which means that competition remains fierce. Tobacco remains the largest category of merchandise sales volume, and fast food has recently moved into second place, pushing beer to third. Department Stores Mergers and consolidation have been the trend over recent years, while department stores have worked on becoming more efficient. This effort is largely driven by tough competition from

23

discount stores and well-focused specialty stores like Linens ‘n Things. However, some department stores have developed superior management information systems and effective positioning in the eye of consumers. Nordstrom, Dillard’s and May have continued to post impressive growth in recent years, and Nordstrom recently entered the Texas market for the first time. Upper-end stores like Saks and Neimans are doing well, part of a general upward trend in the sale of luxury goods. Department stores are depending more and more on designer boutiques within the stores for high-volume generators. Apparel areas featuring Polo, for example, plus Nautica and Tommy Hilfiger are tremendous successes in men’s clothing. Value Retailers The fastest-growing value retailer chains, based on new stores opened during 1998: Chain Dollar General Corp. Family Dollar Stores, Inc. Dollar Tree, Inc.

New Stores--1998 500 350 200+

American shoppers continue to flock to discount stores that offer deep selections of merchandise at everyday low prices. Despite the recent bankruptcies of Jamesway, Caldor, Bradlees and Rich’s, many major chains continue to thrive and to open new stores at a rapid clip. Particularly interesting is the explosion of “dollar” stores that offer closet merchandise at the $1 price level. These stores enjoy a low costof-opening.

24

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

“Dollar” Chains that are growing rapidly: Chain Annual Revenues 1998 (billions) Dollar General Corp. 2.6 Family Dollar Stores, 2.4 Inc. Dollar Tree Stores, Inc. .919 These stores are small, convenient and offer rock-bottom prices on such items as health and beauty aids, cleaning supplies, and canned meat and snacks. By 2002, total sales for value retailers are expected to surpass $20 billion. For the most part, these types of stores can offer low prices because of their no frills shopping experience. Products like laundry detergent and bleach are stacked on the sales floor atop the carton they were shipped in, thus reducing the need for expensive fixtures. The stores rarely accept credit cards and are situated in low rent establishments. As of yet, these types of stores pose little threat to discount giants like K-Mart, Wal-Mart and Target, however, they will continue to keep a close eye on customer traffic patterns and will adjust marketing patterns accordingly. Drugstores The biggest news here the consolidation, driven largely by a desire to establish massive nationwide chains of pharmacies that can capture a large market share of contracts with health maintenance organizations. Drugstore chains also need the marketing power achieved by building nationwide chains so that the drug chains can advertise more effectively to thwart competition from pharmacies in non-drugstorechains, such as Wal-Mart and Albertson’s.

Recent drugstore acquisition activity: Name of Buyer JC Penney JC Penney

Name of Stores Acquired Eckerd

No. of Stores Acquired 1,724

Price $2.5 bil. NA

Rite Aid (a portion of Rite Aid’s stores)

200

JC Penney Revco

Fay’s

270

Big B

382

CVS

Revco

2,600

Rite Aid

Thrifty/ Payless

1,007

Cabot Noble

ShopKo

130

Cabot Noble

Phar-Mor

102

$285 mil. $380 mil. $2.6 bil. est. $1.4 bil. Merger to create new comp. Merger to create new comp.

Home Centers Home Depot, with about 528 stores, is the nation's largest home improvement retailer. The number two home improvement retailer, Lowe's, operates 446 stores in over 30 states. These gargantuan meccas for the do-it-yourselfer offer broad product assortment, low prices and knowledgeable staff. Builder’s Square, a unit of Kmart, planned a merger with Waban’s home centers to create a major new chain, but the deal was killed during early 1997, and Kmart remains the owner of Builder’s Square for the time being. Specialty Stores There’s lots of news in books and music. In books, the superstores, Barnes & Noble (the nation’s largest bookseller), and Borders (the second-largest bookstore operator) continue to battle for market share. Meanwhile, Barnes & Noble and Borders have decided to attack Internet-based rival Amazon.com by establishing their own major efforts to sell on the Web. Barnes & Noble is also the exclusive seller of books on America On-line. Like that of Amazon.com, where up to one and one-half million books are listed for

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

sale, the new websites offer considerably more titles than can be found in a retail superstore. Stores selling recorded music continue to suffer, with Blockbuster Music selling out to Wherehouse Entertainment. Part of the problem is caused by excess capacity. Another problem is a lack of super-selling hit CDs. Meanwhile, Richmond, Virginia-based Fresh Picks plans to offer recorded music by distributing to more than 300 supermarkets of various chains nationwide. Crafts The retail craft business has grown to more than $14 billion yearly. The aging of baby boomers plus their growing affluence have a lot to do with the now-impressive size of this market. Big players in crafts retailing, including stores that sell fabrics and accessories for home sewing, include: Company Michaels Stores Trend-Lines Garden Ridge

Yearly Sales 1998 $1,457 million $231 million $305 million

Supermarkets Supermarkets remain, in a word, competitive. In major markets like Houston, Texas, national chains like Albertson’s are moving in to butt heads with well-entrenched local chains like Randall’s. Meanwhile, a regional chain, HEB, is trying to stake out territory there as well. Finally, Whole Foods Market, the alternative, largely organic/health foods chain, is going nationwide, and competing very well in many major markets. Next, supermarkets have finally been shocked into realizing they are competing against fast food restaurants that provide take-out food. This realization was hammered home when Boston Market opened over 1,000 stores over a short period of time, serving what has come to be called the “home meal replacement” market (as opposed to mere “fast food”). That is, Boston Market, EatZi’s and other restaurant

25

chains are aimed directly at purchases of food that might otherwise be bought at supermarkets. Carefully positioned restaurants like EatZi’s will eventually have a profound effect on total food sales at supermarkets. Boston Market and its peers offer a viable, affordable meal that can be taken home in a hurry and served family-style, with a selection, taste and appearance that some might be willing to say is an acceptable facsimile of a home-cooked meal -- thus the phrase “home meal replacement.” For example, surveys have shown that a mere eight years ago, 70% of every purchase made in supermarkets was for meal ingredients. In 1996, it was only 47%. Now, consumers will see a growing number of pre-cooked, homemeal-replacement offerings within supermarkets. Some will carry recognizable restaurant brand names. In another attempt to stay ahead in the competition for food dollars, the $400 billion supermarket industry is trying hard to keep up with another trend: retailing over the Internet. Several major chains now cooperate with Peapod to list grocery items on a checklist over the Web. Shoppers access this shopping list, check off what they want, and receive a home delivery a few minutes later in exchange for a small delivery fee. Toys The big story here is that giant Toys ‘R’ Us, with nearly 1,500 full-size Toys ‘R’ Us, Kids ‘R’ Us and Babies ‘R’ Us stores, has given up its number one position in total toy sales to WalMart. However, the firm still has a significant presence in Europe and Japan. A significant number of Toys ‘R’ Us stores will be remodeled by the year 2000.

26

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

Auto Parts The retail auto parts segment is a $40 billion yearly business, growing at a 7% annual rate over the past several years. The related parts installation and repair business has climbed to $60 billion yearly. Demand for parts and installation will continue to boom, because there are 99 million cars in America that are more than six years old. Some consolidation is taking place in this segment. The chains that are performing best and growing at the fastest rate are those with highvolume buying power and good real estate selection departments. Top Auto Parts Retailers AutoZone—The nation's #1 auto parts retailer, with 2,377 AutoZone, 280 Chief Auto Parts, 43 TruckPro and 112 Auto Palace stores. Pep Boys -- Manny, Moe & Jack-has 640 stores and stocks over 28,000 items. Discount Auto Parts—has 518 stores, mostly in Florida and other southeastern states. O’Reilly Automotive—has 448 O'Reilly and 189 Hi/LO stores, mostly in Texas, Missouri and Oklahoma, and has plans for continued expansion. Western Auto Supply—merged with Advance Auto Parts, has 1500 stores and 5,000 franchises. Genuine Parts—The nation's top after-market auto parts retailer with 1,700 affiliated stores, a member of the NAPA group, and offers more than 200,000 replacement parts.

Index of tables in the balance of this chapter U.S. Population by Age Group, 1960-98

p. 27

Total and Per Capita Disposable Personal Income and Personal Consumption Expenditures…

p. 28

Imports and Exports, 1959-98

p. 29

Real Gross Domestic Product, 1959-98

p. 30

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

27

U.S. Population by age group, 1960-98 (Thousands of persons) Age (years) July 1

Total

Under 5

5-15

16-19

20-24

25-44

45-64

65 and over

1962............................................................ 186,538

20,469

41,205

11,180

11,959

47,013

37,255

17,457

1963............................................................ 189,242

20,342

41,626

12,007

12,714

46,994

37,782

17,778

1964............................................................ 191,889

20,165

42,297

12,736

13,269

46,958

38,338

18,127

1965............................................................ 194,303

19,824

42,938

13,516

13,746

46,912

38,916

18,451

1966............................................................ 196,560

19,208

43,702

14,311

14,050

47,001

39,534

18,755

1967............................................................ 198,712

18,563

44,244

14,200

15,248

47,194

40,193

19,071

1968............................................................ 200,706

17,913

44,622

14,452

15,786

47,721

40,846

19,365

1969............................................................ 202,677

17,376

44,840

14,800

16,480

48,064

41,437

19,680

1970............................................................ 205,052

17,166

44,816

15,289

17,202

48,473

41,999

20,107

1971............................................................ 207,661

17,244

44,591

15,688

18,159

48,936

42,482

20,561

1972............................................................ 209,896

17,101

44,203

16,039

18,153

50,482

42,898

21,020

1973............................................................ 211,909

16,851

43,582

16,446

18,521

51,749

43,235

21,525

1974............................................................ 213,854

16,487

42,989

16,769

18,975

53,051

43,522

22,061

1975............................................................ 215,973

16,121

42,508

17,017

19,527

54,302

43,801

22,696

1976............................................................ 218,035

15,617

42,099

17,194

19,986

55,852

44,008

23,278

1977............................................................ 220,239

15,564

41,298

17,276

20,499

57,561

44,150

23,892

1978............................................................ 222,585

15,735

40,428

17,288

20,946

59,400

44,286

24,502

1979............................................................ 225,055

16,063

39,552

17,242

21,297

61,379

44,390

25,134

1980............................................................ 227,726

16,451

38,838

17,167

21,590

63,470

44,504

25,707

1981............................................................ 229,966

16,893

38,144

16,812

21,869

65,528

44,500

26,221

1982............................................................ 232,188

17,228

37,784

16,332

21,902

67,692

44,462

26,787

1983............................................................ 234,307

17,547

37,526

15,823

21,844

69,733

44,474

27,361

1984............................................................ 236,348

17,695

37,461

15,295

21,737

71,735

44,547

27,878

1985............................................................ 238,466

17,842

37,450

15,005

21,478

73,673

44,602

28,416

1986............................................................ 240,651

17,963

37,404

15,024

20,942

75,651

44,660

29,008

1987............................................................ 242,804

18,052

37,333

15,215

20,385

77,338

44,854

29,626

1988............................................................ 245,021

18,195

37,593

15,198

19,846

78,595

45,471

30,124

1989............................................................ 247,342

18,508

37,972

14,913

19,442

79,943

45,882

30,682

1990............................................................ 249,913

18,849

38,588

14,449

19,307

81,196

46,288

31,235

1991............................................................ 252,650

19,198

39,197

13,929

19,356

82,449

46,758

31,763

1992............................................................ 255,419

19,506

39,905

13,671

19,192

82,530

48,345

32,270

1993............................................................ 258,137

19,689

40,546

13,798

18,895

82,849

49,583

32,777

1994............................................................ 260,660

19,734

41,223

14,032

18,451

83,180

50,887

33,152

1995............................................................ 263,034

19,591

41,924

14,287

17,972

83,511

52,216

33,532

1996............................................................ 265,455

19,423

42,447

14,791

17,456

83,814

53,675

33,849

1997............................................................ 267,861

19,229

42,923

15,140

17,512

83,553

55,407

34,097

1998............................................................ 270,004

19,117

43,268

15,553

17,451

83,147

57,182

34,286

Note.--Includes Armed Forces overseas beginning 1940. Includes Alaska and Hawaii beginning 1950. All estimates are consistent with decennial census enumerations.

Source: Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census.

28

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

Total and per capita disposable personal income and personal consumption expenditures in current and real dollars, 1962-95

Year or quarter

(Quarterly data at seasonally adjusted annual rates, except as noted) Personal consumption Disposable personal income Gross domestic expenditures product per Total (billions of Per capita Total (billions of Per capita capita (dollars) Population dollars) (dollars) dollars) (dollars) (thousands)1 Constant Constant Constant Constant Constant Current Current Current Current Current (1992) (1992) (1992) (1992) (1992) dollars dollars dollars dollars dollars dollars dollars dollars dollars dollars

1962...................................

401.3 1,693.7 2,151.0 9,077.0

363.4 1,533.8 1,948.0 8,220.0 3,136.0 13,125.0

186,590

1963...................................

421.1 1,755.5 2,225.0 9,274.0

383.0 1,596.6 2,023.0 8,434.0 3,261.0 13,492.0

189,300

1964...................................

457.6 1,881.9 2,384.0 9,805.0

411.4 1,692.3 2,144.0 8,817.0 3,455.0 14,083.0

191,927

1965...................................

493.9 2,000.2 2,541.0 10,292.0

444.3 1,799.1 2,286.0 9,257.0 3,700.0 14,792.0

194,347

1966...................................

533.7 2,106.6 2,715.0 10,715.0

481.9 1,902.0 2,451.0 9,674.0 4,007.0 15,565.0

196,599

1967...................................

571.9 2,198.4 2,877.0 11,061.0

509.5 1,958.6 2,563.0 9,854.0 4,194.0 15,800.0

198,752

1968...................................

621.4 2,298.2 3,096.0 11,448.0

559.8 2,070.2 2,789.0 10,313.0 4,536.0 16,382.0

200,745

1969...................................

668.4 2,373.6 3,297.0 11,708.0

604.7 2,147.5 2,982.0 10,593.0 4,845.0 16,712.0

202,736

1970...................................

727.1 2,465.6 3,545.0 12,022.0

648.1 2,197.8 3,160.0 10,717.0 5,050.0 16,520.0

205,089

1971...................................

790.2 2,564.0 3,805.0 12,345.0

702.5 2,279.5 3,383.0 10,975.0 5,419.0 16,853.0

207,692

1972...................................

855.3 2,680.8 4,074.0 12,770.0

770.7 2,415.9 3,671.0 11,508.0 5,894.0 17,579.0

209,924

1973...................................

965.0 2,869.4 4,553.0 13,539.0

851.6 2,532.6 4,018.0 11,950.0 6,524.0 18,412.0

211,939

1974................................... 1,054.2 2,847.0 4,928.0 13,310.0

931.2 2,514.7 4,353.0 11,756.0 6,998.0 18,178.0

213,898

1975................................... 1,159.2 2,895.0 5,367.0 13,404.0 1,029.1 2,570.0 4,765.0 11,899.0 7,550.0 17,896.0

215,981

1976................................... 1,273.0 3,008.0 5,837.0 13,793.0 1,148.8 2,714.3 5,268.0 12,446.0 8,341.0 18,713.0

218,086

1977................................... 1,401.4 3,105.1 6,362.0 14,095.0 1,277.1 2,829.8 5,797.0 12,846.0 9,201.0 19,426.0

220,289

1978................................... 1,580.1 3,264.2 7,097.0 14,662.0 1,428.8 2,951.6 6,418.0 13,258.0 10,292.0 20,185.0

222,629

1979................................... 1,769.5 3,353.9 7,861.0 14,899.0 1,593.5 3,020.2 7,079.0 13,417.0 11,361.0 20,541.0

225,106

1980................................... 1,973.3 3,373.3 8,665.0 14,813.0 1,760.4 3,009.7 7,730.0 13,216.0 12,226.0 20,252.0

227,726

1981................................... 2,200.2 3,452.3 9,566.0 15,009.0 1,941.3 3,046.4 8,440.0 13,245.0 13,547.0 20,542.0

230,008

1982................................... 2,347.3 3,483.0 10,108.0 14,999.0 2,076.8 3,081.5 8,943.0 13,270.0 13,961.0 19,911.0

232,218

1983................................... 2,522.4 3,579.9 10,764.0 15,277.0 2,283.4 3,240.6 9,744.0 13,829.0 14,998.0 20,527.0

234,332

1984................................... 2,810.0 3,841.9 11,887.0 16,252.0 2,492.3 3,407.6 10,543.0 14,415.0 16,508.0 21,736.0

236,394

1985................................... 3,002.0 3,958.6 12,587.0 16,597.0 2,704.8 3,566.5 11,341.0 14,954.0 17,529.0 22,345.0

238,506

1986................................... 3,187.6 4,087.0 13,244.0 16,981.0 2,892.7 3,708.7 12,019.0 15,409.0 18,374.0 22,810.0

240,682

1987................................... 3,363.1 4,154.1 13,849.0 17,106.0 3,094.5 3,822.3 12,743.0 15,740.0 19,323.0 23,260.0

242,842

1988................................... 3,640.8 4,318.1 14,857.0 17,621.0 3,349.7 3,972.7 13,669.0 16,211.0 20,605.0 23,924.0

245,061

1989................................... 3,894.5 4,403.7 15,742.0 17,801.0 3,594.8 4,064.6 14,531.0 16,430.0 21,984.0 24,497.0

247,387

1990................................... 4,166.8 4,484.6 16,670.0 17,942.0 3,839.3 4,132.2 15,360.0 16,532.0 22,979.0 24,559.0

249,956

1991................................... 4,343.7 4,486.4 17,191.0 17,755.0 3,975.1 4,105.8 15,732.0 16,249.0 23,416.0 24,058.0

252,680

1992................................... 4,613.7 4,613.7 18,062.0 18,062.0 4,219.8 4,219.8 16,520.0 16,520.0 24,447.0 24,447.0

255,432

1993................................... 4,789.3 4,666.2 18,552.0 18,075.0 4,454.1 4,339.7 17,253.0 16,810.0 25,373.0 24,728.0

258,159

1994................................... 5,018.8 4,775.6 19,253.0 18,320.0 4,698.7 4,471.1 18,025.0 17,152.0 26,589.0 25,335.0

260,681

1995................................ 5,225.5 4,895.5 19,931.0 18,672.0 4,836.3 4,530.9 18,447.0 17,282.0 27,263.0 25,561.0

262,181

1996........

5,605.6 5,074.4 21,117.0 19,116.0 5,205.0 4,711.8 19,608.0 17,750.0 28,765.0 26,100.0

265,453

1997.........

5,885.5 5,222.2 21,969.0 19,493.0 5,486.1 4,867.8 20,478.0 18,170.0 30,160.0 26,833.0

267,901

1

Population of the United States including Armed Forces overseas; includes Alaska and Hawaii beginning 1960. Annual data are averages of quarterly data. Quarterly data are averages for the period.

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

29

Imports and exports, 1965 to 1998 Foreign transactions in the U.S. national income and product accounts, 1965-98 (Billions of dollars quarterly data at seasonally adjusted annual rates)

Net foreign investment

Transfer payments (net) Total

Services2

Goods2

Total

Imports of goods and services

Payments of factor income4

Payments to rest of the world

Total

Services2

Goods2

Total

Total1

Year or quarter

Exports of goods and services

Receipts of factor income3

Receipts from rest of the world

1965...........................................

43.5

35.4

27.8

7.6

8.1

43.5

31.5

22.2

9.3

2.7

3

6.2

1966...........................................

47.2

38.9

30.7

8.2

8.3

47.2

37.1

26.3

10.7

3.1

3.2

3.9

1967...........................................

50.2

41.4

32.2

9.2

8.9

50.2

39.9

27.8

12.2

3.4

3.4

3.5

1968...........................................

55.6

45.3

35.3

10

10.3

55.6

46.6

33.9

12.6

4.1

3.2

1.7

1969...........................................

61.2

49.3

38.3

11

11.9

61.2

50.5

36.8

13.7

5.8

3.2

1.8

1970...........................................

70.8

57

44.5

12.4

13

70.8

55.8

40.9

14.9

6.6

3.6

4.9

1971...........................................

74.2

59.3

45.6

13.8

14.1

74.2

62.3

46.6

15.8

6.4

4.1

1.3

1972...........................................

83.4

66.2

51.8

14.4

16.4

83.4

74.2

56.9

17.3

7.7

4.3

-2.9

1973...........................................

115.6

91.8

73.9

17.8

23.8 115.6

91.2

71.8

19.3

11.1

4.6

8.7

1974...........................................

152.6 124.3

101

23.3

30.3 152.6

127.5 104.5

22.9

14.6

5.4

5.1

1975...........................................

164.4 136.3 109.6

26.7

28.2 164.4

122.7

99

23.7

14.9

5.4

21.4

1976...........................................

181.7 148.9 117.8

31.1

32.9 181.7

151.1 124.6

26.5

15.7

6

8.9

1977...........................................

196.6 158.8 123.7

35.1

37.9 196.6

182.4 152.6

29.8

17.2

6

-9

1978...........................................

233.5 186.1 145.4

40.7

47.4 233.5

212.3 177.4

34.8

25.3

6.4

-10.4

1979...........................................

300.3 228.7

184

44.7

70.4 300.3

252.7 212.8

39.9

37.5

7.5

2.6

1980...........................................

361.9 278.9 225.8

53.2

81.8 361.9

293.8 248.6

45.3

46.5

9

12.5

1981...........................................

399.5 302.8 239.1

63.7

95.6 399.5

317.8 267.8

49.9

60.9

13.4

7.4

1982...........................................

379.5 282.6

67.6

96.9 379.5

303.2 250.5

52.6

65.8

16.7

-6.1

69.7

215

1983...........................................

374.6

97.6 374.6

328.6 272.7

56

65.6

17.7

-37.3

1984...........................................

421.8 303.1 225.6

277 207.3

77.5 118.7 421.8

405.1 336.3

68.8

87.6

20.6

-91.5

1985...........................................

411.1

80.8 108.1 411.1

417.2 343.3

73.9

87.7

23.1 -116.9

1986...........................................

427.1 320.7

94.7 106.5 427.1

452.2

82.2

93.6

24.3 -142.9

1987...........................................

481.8 365.7 257.5 108.2

93.1 107.1

23.3 -156.4

1988...........................................

591.9 447.2 325.8 121.4 144.7 591.9

553.2 452.1 101.1 131.7

25.1 -118.1

1989...........................................

678.3 509.3 371.7 137.6

589.7 484.5 105.3 154.8

26.1

-92.4

1990...........................................

734.8 557.3 398.5 158.8 177.5 734.8

628.6

508 120.6 156.4

28.4

-78.6

1991...........................................

757.9 601.8 426.4 175.4 156.2 757.9

622.3 500.7 121.6 140.5

-12.1

7.3

1992...........................................

777.3 639.4 448.7 190.7 137.9 777.3

669 544.9 124.1 126.8

32

-50.5

1993...........................................

798.5 657.8 459.6 198.3 140.7 798.5

720.5 592.8 127.8 130.1

36.1

-88.2

1994...........................................

882.5 719.1 509.1 210.1 163.4 882.5

813.5

677 136.4 167.2

38.2 -136.4

1995........................................... 1044.6 819.4 583.8 235.6 225.2 1044.6

903.3 757.6 145.7 207.6

34.2 -100.6

1996........................................... 1109.3 873.8 618.3 255.5 235.5 1109.3

303 222.2 226

116 481.8 169 678.3

370

507.9 414.8

965.0 809.0 156.0 223.1

40.4 -119.2

1997........................................... 1230.9 965.4 688.3 277.1 265.5 1230.9 1058.8 888.3 170.4 273.5

39.5 -140.9

1998........................................... 1243.6 973.3 694.5 278.8 270.3 1243.6 1097.1 920.9 176.2 285.1

37 -175.6

1

Includes capital grants received by the United States (net), not shown separately. See Table B-30 for data.

2 Certain goods, primarily military equipment purchased and sold by the Federal Government, are included in services. Beginning with 1986, repairs and alterations of equipment were reclassified from goods to services.

Source: Department of Commerce, Bureau of Economic Analysis.

30

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

Real gross domestic product, 1960-1998, constant dollars (Billions of chained 1992 dollars, except as noted; quarterly data at seasonally adjusted annual rates)

Personal consumption expenditures Year or quarter

Gross domestic product

Total

Durable goods

Non-durable goods

Services

1960……………………………..

2,261.70

1,432.60

105.2

615.4

717.4

1961……………………………..

2,309.80

1,461.50

101.2

626.7

746.5

1962……………………………..

2,449.10

1,533.80

113

646.5

783.4

1963……………………………..

2,554.00

1,596.60

124

660

818.7

1964……………………………..

2,702.90

1,692.30

135.5

692.5

868.4

1965……………………………..

2,874.80

1,799.10

152.6

729.3

914.6

1966……………………………..

3,060.20

1,902.00

165.5

769.2

961

1967……………………………..

3,140.20

1,958.60

168.1

781.4

1,007.60

1968……………………………..

3,288.60

2,070.20

186.6

816.9

1,059.60

1969……………………………..

3,388.00

2,147.50

193.3

838.6

1,110.80

1970……………………………..

3,388.20

2,197.80

187

859.1

1,155.40

1971……………………………..

3,500.10

2,279.50

205.7

874.5

1,197.90

1972……………………………..

3,690.30

2,415.90

231.9

912.9

1,262.50

1973……………………………..

3,902.30

2,532.60

255.8

942.9

1,319.40

1974……………………………..

3,888.20

2,514.70

238.2

924.5

1,351.20

1975……………………………..

3,865.10

2,570.00

238.1

938.3

1,398.30

1976……………………………..

4,081.10

2,714.30

268.5

984.8

1,457.10

1977……………………………..

4,279.30

2,829.80

293.4

1,010.40

1,518.20

1978……………………………..

4,493.70

2,951.60

308.8

1,045.70

1,589.30

1979……………………………..

4,624.00

3,020.20

307.3

1,069.70

1,639.80

1980……………………………..

4,611.90

3,009.70

282.6

1,065.10

1,670.70

1981……………………………..

4,724.90

3,046.40

285.8

1,074.30

1,696.10

1982……………………………..

4,623.60

3,081.50

285.5

1,080.60

1,728.20

1983……………………………..

4,810.00

3,240.60

327.4

1,112.40

1,809.00

1984……………………………..

5,138.20

3,407.60

374.9

1,151.80

1,883.00

1985……………………………..

5,329.50

3,566.50

411.4

1,178.30

1,977.30

1986……………………………..

5,489.90

3,708.70

448.4

1,215.90

2,041.40

1987……………………………..

5,648.40

3,822.30

454.9

1,239.30

2,126.90

1988……………………………..

5,862.90

3,972.70

483.5

1,274.40

2,212.40

1989……………………………..

6,060.40

4,064.60

496.2

1,303.50

2,262.30

1990……………………………..

6,138.70

4,132.20

493.3

1,316.10

2,321.30

1991……………………………..

6,079.00

4,105.80

462

1,302.90

2,341.00

1992……………………………..

6,244.40

4,219.80

488.5

1,321.80

2,409.40

1993……………………………..

6,386.40

4,339.50

524.1

1,348.80

2,466.70

1994……………………………..

6,608.70

4,473.20

562

1,390.50

2,521.40

1995……………………………..

6,742.90

4,577.80

579.8

1,421.90

2,577.00

1996……………………………..

6,994.80

4,752.40

626.1

1,450.90

2,676.70

1997……………………………..

7,269.80

4,913.50

668.6

1,486.30

2,761.50

1998……………………………..

7,551.90

5,153.30

737.10

1,544.10

2,879.50

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

31

Chapter 2 A SHORT LIST OF IMPORTANT RETAIL INDUSTRY CONTACTS Addresses, Telephone Numbers and World Wide Web Sites I. ADVERTISING/MARKETING Contents: I. Advertising/Marketing

p.31

II. Business Associations A. Apparel-Related Ass. B. Book-Related Associations C. Convenience Store-Related Associations D. Food/Grocer-Related Ass. E. State Associations (General Retail) F. Trade Associations (General Retail)

p.32 p.32 p.33

III. General Retail Information

p.39

IV. Government and Trade Organ.

p.40

V. Real Estate Shopping Centers

p.42

VI. Retail Magazines A. Direct Marketing Mag. B. Retailing Magazines C. Online Retail Mag. D. Retail Real Estate Mag.

p.44 p.44 p.46 p.50 p.51

VII. Store Security, Alarms, Computer Security

p.51

p.34 p.35 p.36 p.36

ADTRACK www.usatoday.com/money/index Delivers the results of a poll conducted each week by USA TODAY and Louis Harris and Associates to determine the effectiveness of major advertising campaigns. Adweek Directories www.adweek.com Provides comprehensive information to retail advertising, marketing and media professions. Advertising Age www.adage.com/ Archives, ad market information and a daily top story. Advertising Council, Inc. (The) www.adcouncil.org A private, non-profit organization of volunteers who conduct advertising campaigns for the public good -- the largest source of public service advertising in the United States. Advertising Industry Outlook www.interpublic.com/companynews/insider12_98html Displays a detailed outlook of the advertising industry.

32

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 Advertising InterNETACTIVE www.firstchoicemkt.com/adfree.html Provides free online advertising services for burgeoning businesses, Internet marketing help and small business information tips.

Planet Direct www.planetdirect.newsalert.com/MGI/INDUSTRY/advert. html Lists companies within the retail advertising industry as well as stock and investment information.

Advertising Recruitment Specialists www.adrecruiters.com Recruitment company for the advertising industry.

Point-of-Purchase Advertising Institute www.adweb.com/adassoc27.html An international non-profit trade association dedicated to serving the interests of advertisers, retailers and producers/suppliers of point-of-purchase products and services.

Advertising Research Foundation www.arfsite.com Seeks to improve the practice of advertising, marketing and media professions. American Advertising Federation www.aaf.org Advertising agency association that binds the mutual interests of corporate advisers, agencies, media companies, suppliers and academia. American Association of Advertising Agencies www.aaaa.org A national trade organization representing the advertising industry that offers extensive advertising information. American Demographics/Marketing Tools www.marketingtools.com/ American Demographics, a Dow Jones publication, online. BCL Online www.bcl.newsalert.com/MGI/INDUSTRY/advert.html Lists and profiles several advertising companies alphabetically. CARDmedia www.cardmedia.com/websites/windex.htm Lists and links to Canadian advertisers. International Advertising Association www.iaaglobal.org/ The only global partnership of advertisers, agencies, the media and related services. Media Central www.mediacentral.com/promo Online resource for marketing and media executives using multimedia tools for retail promotions. Outdoor Advertising Association of America www.ooaa.org Provides leadership and vision in the protection, promotion and improvement of the outdoor advertising industry.

Promotion Marketing Association of America, Inc. www.adweb.com/adassoc28.html Focuses on promoting and protecting the interests of those who use promotion marketing techniques in the sale of their products/services. Promotional Products Association International www.ppa.org Supports the growing promotional products industry while helping retail suppliers and distributors prosper in an evolving business environment. Veronis, Suhler & Associates, Inc. www.vsacom.com/advertising/associations.html Provides industry and association information. Web Digest for Marketers www.advert.com/wdfm/wdfm.html Links to other marketing-related sites; also advertisingand catalog-related information. Weightman Group www.weightman.com/ Advertising and public relation services.

II. BUSINESS ASSOCIATIONS A. Apparel-Related Associations Aimpes www.softeam.it/aimpes.mipel/ The Italian Association of Leather and Substitute Manufacturers represents Italian retail manufacturers at home and abroad. American Apparel Manufacturers Association www.americanapparel.org Offers industry news, links and a manifesto.

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists www.aatcc.com Offers information on workshops and conferences, Textile Chemists and Colorists Magazine, products and services, membership information and departmental contacts. American Fiber Manufacturers Association www.fibersource.com Represents United States producers of manufactured fibers, filaments and yarns, manages government related programs, international trade policy, environment and technical issues and offers educational services. American Professional Needlework Retailers www.tkga.com 141 E. Winter Street Delaware, OH 43105 Phone: 614-369-5537 Offers a bulletin board, membership info and more. American Society of Mechanical Engineers -- Textile Engineering Division www.gatech.edu/textile/asme/ Promotes product and process technology improvement in the retail fiber industry. Apparel Net www.apparelnet.com The definitive online guide to the retail apparel industry. Offers news, contacts and industry information. Carolina Hosiery Association http://hubcap.clemson.edu/~apparel/ Represents over 300 hosiery manufacturers and suppliers in North and South Carolina. China Garment Enterprise Association www.sh.com/custom/cgea.htm Social Economic organization of the Chinese retail garment industry. Cotton Incorporated www.cottoninc.com/ A research and promotion company founded by United States cotton producers and importers of cotton goods into the United States. Crafted With Pride in the U.S.A. Council, Inc. www.apparel.net/cpusac Devoted to promoting Made-in-the U.S.A. clothing and home decorations. Dallas Textile Club www.apparel.net/dtc Nearly 200 members representing the retail textile industry.

33 Embroidery Trade Association www.xroads.com/~eta/ Focuses on developing retail embroidery industry solutions. Fashion Footwear Association of New York www.ffany.org Includes 300 corporations representing 800 of the most well known footwear brands in the world. Fashion Group International www.fgi.org/ Global non-profit organization with over 6,000 members. Garment Contractors Association of Southern California, Inc. www.garmentcontractors.org/ Organization representing the retail garment industry. International Swimwear and Activewear Market www.apparel.net/isam An association of retail swimwear and activewear manufacturers, related businesses and industries focusing on strenghtening the retail swimwear and activewear markets. International Textile and Apparel Association www.itaa.lsu.edu/ A non-profit corporation dedicated to providing opportunities to individuals in the retail, textile and apparel industries. National Textile Center http://ntc.tx.ncsu.edu/ Offers published reports and keyword searches. Textile/Clothing Technology Corporation www.tc2.com/ Not-for-profit consortium of fiber producers, retailers, sewn products manufacturers, labor unions, academia and the federal government.

B. Book-Related Associations American Booksellers Association www.bookweb.org 828 S. Broadway Tarrytown, NY 10951 Phone: 914-591-2665 FAX: 914-591-2720 Toll Free: 800-637-0037 Offers research and statistics information, membership information, discussion forums, news and more.

34

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 Christian Booksellers Association www.cbaonline.com P.O. Box 200 Colorado Springs, CO 80901 Phone: 719-576-7880 FAX: 719-576-0795 Toll-Free: 800-252-1950 Offers a plethora of contacts, membership information and more.

National Advisory Group, Convenience Stores/Petroleum Marketers Association www.nag-net.com 2063 Oak Street Jacksonville, FL 32204-4492 Phone: 904-384-1010 FAX: 904-387-3362 Convention information, news, membership information and links.

C. Convenience Store-Related Associations

National Association of Convenience Stores www.cstorecentral.com 1605 King Street Alexandria, VA 22314-2792 Phone: 703-684-3600 FAX: 703-836-4565 Offers a plethora of up-to-date information, news, contacts and resources.

Florida Petroleum Marketers Association www.fpma.org Includes Internet resources, government news, general industry news and updated information. Georgia Association of Convenience Stores www.gacs.com Provides industry links, membership information and government updates. Indiana Grocery and Convenience Store Association www.cstorecentral.com/igcsa Offers organizational information, industry news and more. Indiana Petroleum Marketers and Convenience Store Association www.ipca.org Offers membership, industry and government information as well as several links. Kentucky Association of Convenience Stores www.cstorecentral.com/kacs Showcases organizational information and industry news. Kentucky Petroleum Marketers Association www.kpma.net Non-profit trade association providing information relevant to retail petroleum sale. Louisiana Oil Marketers Federation www.i-o-m-a.com Non-profit organization offering industry and government information. Maine Oil Dealers Association www.meoil.com Features links and industry/government information. Missouri Petroleum Marketers and Convenience Store Association www.mpca.org Dedicated to serving the interests of convenience stores around Missouri, MPCA's site features several links.

New England Convenience Store Association www.cstorecentral.com/necsa/ Displays an association manifesto and offers industry information and updates. New York Association of Convenience Stores www.nyacs.org Promotes growth, financial stability and education within the industry. North Carolina Association of Convenience Stores www.cstorecentral.com/ncacs Offers industry information, news and contacts. North Carolina Petroleum Marketers Association www.ncpma.com Offers organizational and membership information as well as contacts and links. Ohio Petroleum Marketers Association www.cstorecentral.com/opma Dedicated to serving the interests of retail petroleum marketers throughout Ohio, providing organizational and membership information. Oregon Neighborhood Store Association www.onsa.net Features a newsletter, links and more. Petroleum Marketers Association of America www.pmaa.org 42 state and regional trade associations representing approximately 10,000 independent petroleum marketers worldwide. South Carolina Association of Convenience Stores www.scacs.org Offers a "Find a Store" service, a photo gallery, links and membership information.

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 Washington Association of Neighborhood Stores www.cstorecentral.com/wans/ Displays organizational and membership information as well as contacts. West Virginia Oil Marketers and Grocers Association www.cstorecentral.com/omega/ Offers industry information, organizational information, contacts and links.

D. Food/Grocer-Related Associations Associated Food Dealers of Michigan www.cstorecentral.com/afd.html Food Industry Association Executives P.O. Box 219 Las Cruces, NM 88004 Phone: 505-523-1992 FAX: 505-523-0748 Food Marketing Institute www.fmi.org 800 Connecticut Ave. NW, Ste. 500 Washington, DC 20006-2701 Phone: 202-452-8444 FAX: 202-429-4519 Offers information on retail food marketing. Grocery Manufacturers of America www.gmabrands.com Offers facts, figures, industry affairs and news. International Center for Companies of the Food Trade Industry 3800 Moore Pl. Alexandria, VA 22305 Phone: 703-549-4525 FAX: 703-549-0406 International Dairy-Deli Bakery Association www.iddanet.com Offers industry news and organizational contacts. Montana Food Distributors Association www.cstorecentral.com/mfda Offers legislative trends, local updates and industry news. National-America Wholesale Grocers Association www.nawga-ifda.org 201 ParkWashington Ct. Falls Church, VA 22046 Phone: 703-532-9400 FAX: 703-538-4673 Offers industry and organization information, government news and more.

35 National Food Distributors Association 401 N. Michigan Ave. Chicago, IL 60611-4267 Phone: 312-644-6610 FAX: 312-321-6869 National Grocers Association www.foodsafety.org 1825 Samuel Morse Drive Reston, VA 22090 Phone: 703-437-5300 FAX: 703-437-7768 Provides a handy searchable database and hot topics. National Piggly-Wiggly Operators Association PO Box 1719 Memphis, TN 38101 Phone: 901-395-8215 FAX: 901-395-8475 National Restaurant Association www.restaurant.org Offers extensive industry information as well as government news, trends and membership perks. Northern California Grocers Association www.ncga.net Representing the retail food industry since 1905, NCGA's site is full of comprehensive industry information. Pennsylvania Food Merchant Association www.pfma.org Offers a "Retailer of the Month" award, news, organizational contacts and other information Tennessee Grocers Association http://nashville.citysearch.com Features membership and organizational information, as well as contact links. Texas Food Industry Association www.tfia.org Provides association news, a buyer's guide, industry news, links, contacts, classified advertising and more. Women Grocers of America 1825 Samuel Morse Dr. Reston, VA 22090 Phone: 703-437-5300 FAX: 703-437-7268

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Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

E. State Associations (General Retail) Alabama Retail Association www.alabamaretail.org/ Offers information about events and publications available for Alabama retailers; includes a searchable archive. Illinois Retail Merchants Association www.irma.org Represents stores and small chains in the Illinois area. Offers educational seminars, legislative services and programs for businesses. Kentucky Retail Federation www.kyretfed.org Provides services such as public relations information and business relations screening and lists important numbers. Maryland Retailers Association www.mdra.org/ Includes resources for members and visitors, MRA events, legislative issues and a shopping mall. Michigan Retailers Association www.retailers.com Provides daily retail news, event information and membership news. Includes a talent pool in which companies can seek out potential employees. Minnesota Retail Merchants Association www.mnretail.org/ Provides legislative and informational services to Minnesota retail merchants and business owners. Contact information is offered as well. North Carolina Retail Merchants Association www.ncrma.org Business owners and merchants can find links to the state government, news and information on area retail trends. North Dakota Retail Association www.ndretail.org Offers organization information and news affecting North Dakota merchants. Pennsylvania Retailers Association www.paretailers.org The voice of retailing for Pennsylvania-area merchants. Offers links, government affairs information and a list of member services. Texas Retailers Association www.io.com/txretailer Offers professional representation and educational programs for members. Also features a library and seasonal meetings.

Vermont Retail Association www.genghis.com/vtretail.html Offers extensive contact and member information. Wyoming Retail Merchants Association www.wyoretail.org/ Offers information concerning news, plans, benefits and resources.

F. Trade Associations (General Retail) American Association of Exporters and Importers www.aaei.org 11 W. 42nd Street New York, NY 10036 Phone: 212-944-2230 FAX: 212-382-2606 Sign-up form, membership information, association information, products and services listings and more. American Craft Association 21 S. Eltings Corner Rd. Highland, NY 12528 Toll-Free: 800-724-0859 FAX: 914-883-6030 AMWAnet www.amwanet.org/ The American Wholesale Marketers Association offers industry news, discussion forums and links to publications. Association of Mass Merchandiser Vendors www.ammv.com Provides valuable business news, a comprehensive database and a report compilation. Business Researcher's Interests www.pitt.edu/~malhotra/interest.html More than 2,800 sites relating to contemporary organizational issues concerning information processes, information systems and information technology. Information includes electronic markets, organizational learning and emerging organizations. Business Technology Association www.btanet.org Organization for resellers and dealers of business technology products. Offers buying groups, message boards and live chats. Bureau of Wholesale Representatives www.bwsr.com Dedicated to serving the needs and protecting the interests of the retail wholesale industry.

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

37

Canada Net Pages www.visions.com/netpages Canadian business and finance data. Canada Net Financial Pages and Canada Net Business Directory can be found here.

Fair Trade Federation www.fairtradefederation.com Association of retailers and wholesalers that want to provide fair wages for artisans. Offers a listing of stores and a selection of catalogs.

Canadian Fence Industry Association www.canadafence.org Resources for Canadian retailers and wholesalers of fence products and related services.

Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry www.fhusa.com/ Official trade organization for American Swiss watch manufacturers and retailers. Offers resources including purchasing, lists of authorized dealers and repair centers.

Canadian Retail Hardware Association www.crha.org Main governing body of retail businesses in Canada. Provides a directory, links and resources for hardware retailers. Catalog.com www.catalog.com Offers web hosting products, information on how to become a profitable reseller, employment opportunities and hosts an array of online stores. CatalogLink http://cataloglink.com Offers a wide selections of catalogs as well as direct marketing information. Council of Logistics Management www.clm1.org 2803 Butterfield Road, Suite 380 Oak Brook, IL 60521 Phone: 708-574-0985 FAX: 708-574-0989 Website offers an extensive list of logistics trends, updates, contact information and more. Direct Marketing Association (The) www.the-dma.org Offers services and information to direct marketers, including industry news, a functional library and contact information. Distribution Research and Education Foundation 1725 K St. NW Washington, DC 20006 Phone: 202-872-0885 FAX: 202-785-0586 EuroCommerce www.eurocommerce.be/ Provides representation for European businesses to the European Union. Offers information on conferences, publications and includes a manifesto.

General Merchandise Distributors Council www.gmdc.com 1275 Lake Plaza Drive Colorado Springs, CO 80906 Phone: 719-576-4260 FAX: 719-576-2661 Offers extensive member information on the grocery, beauty care and other retail industries. Global Trade Center www.tradezone.com/tz/ For people interested in world trade and mail order. Home Center Institute www.homecenter.org 5822 W. 74th Street Indianapolis, IN 46278 Phone: 317-299-0339 FAX: 317-328-4354 Includes a buyer’s market directory, news and more. Hong Kong Watch Manufacturers Association www.net-trade.com/hk-watch/home.html Promotes local retail watch industry business, interests, trade and contracts with overseas counterparts. Independent Cash Register Dealers Association www.icrda.org Offers conferences, conventions and membership opportunities for those in the retail cash register industry. Institute for Retail Studies www.stir.ac.uk/marketing/irs/ Center for academic and applied study of the retail industry. Institute of Store Planners www.ispo.org 25 N. Broadway Tarrrytown, NY 10591 Phone: 914-332-1806 FAX: 914-332-1541 Offers member and industry information.

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Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 International Association of Airport Duty-Free Stores www.iaadfs.org 1200 19th St. NW, Ste. 300 Washington, DC 20036 Phone: 202-857-1184 FAX: 202-429-5154 Offers contact, organization and membership information.

National Association of Catalog Showroom Merchandisers PO Box 736 East Northport, N 11731 Phone: 516-754-6041 FAX: 516-754-4364 Toll-Free: 800-334-4711

International Association of Department Stores www.iads.org Provides department stores worldwide with information and training as well as management research. Includes a retail newsletter.

National Association of College Stores www.nacs.org 500 E. Lorain Street Oberlin, OH 44074 Phone: 216-775-7777 FAX: 216-775-4769 Toll-Free: 800-662-7498 Features contacts and organizational information.

International Business Resources on the WWW ciber.bus.msu.edu/busres.htm Index of business, economics, trade, marketing, and government sites with an international focus. International Council of Shopping Centers www.icsc.org 665 5th Avenue New York, NY 10022 Phone: 212-421-8181 FAX: 212-486-0849 A non-profit organization with over 32,000 members in over 62 countries, the council organizes over 300 meetings yearly and offers a wide variety of services and products. International Mass Retail Association www.imra.org/staff2.html 1901 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, 10th Floor Washington, DC 20006 Phone: 202-861-0774 FAX: 202-785-4588 Provides a comprehensive body of resources concerning the mass retail industry.

National Association of Resale and Thrift Shops www.narts.com 20331 Mack Avenue Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236 Phone: 810-294-6700 FAX: 810-294-6776 Toll-Free: 800-544-0751 Visit the bookstore, go shopping, learn about services, meetings and membership information. National Association of Retail Dealers of America 10 East 22nd Street Lombard, IL 60148 Phone: 708-953-8950 FAX: 708-953-8957 National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors 1725 K St. NW Washington, DC 20006 Phone: 202-872-0885 FAX: 202-785-0586

IOMA Information Services for Professionals starbase.ingress.com/ioma/ Institute of Management and Administration trial subscriptions to business newsletters providing a directory of business-related resources by topic.

National Home Furnishings Association http://nhfa.org/ Presents members with resources, information and products needed to improve home furnishings businesses, and offers convention information.

IRI Products and Services Directory www.infores.com/public/prodserv Provides solutions for the retail packaged goods industry.

National Retail Federation www.nrf.com 325 7th Street NW, Ste. 1000 Washington, DC 20004-2802 Phone: 202-783-7971 FAX: 202-737-2849 Provides a comprehensive body of information and resource links concerning the retail industry.

Museum Store Association www.msaweb.org 501 S. Cherry Street, No. 460 Denver, CO 80222-1325 Phone: 303-329-6968 FAX: 303-329-6134 Features membership, seminar, policy, chapter, publication, meeting and general information.

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 National Product Broker Association 13045 SW 107th Ct. Tigard, OR 97223 Phone: 503-620-8714 FAX: 503-639-3620 National Shoe Retailers Association www.apparel.net/naa Representing shoe retailers since 1912, NSRA provides practical information and business services. National Specialty Gift Association (The) www.giftprofessionals.com Provides retail gift industry association information, business tips and gift ideas. Navatar-Organizational Renewal and Business Reengineering www.navatar.ca/ Recent information on business process re-engineering and change management. Northeast Retail Hardware Association www.nerha.org/ Aids hardware retailers in all aspects of business through a series of programs and services. Offers details on store design and merchandising. Retail Council of Canada www.retailcouncil.org Trade association for Canadian retailers that provides resources, research and an updated editorial calendar. Retail Info-Central www.retail-info.com Offers trade publications, general industry information and a wealth of retailing resources. Retail Merchants Association of New Hampshire www.peekaboo.net/rma-nh/ Offers industry news and resources. Retail Tobacco Dealers of America www.rtda.org Provides information on legislation concerning the tobacco industry, retailer news and trade show information. Retail Institute (The) www.retail-institute.com Provides education services for small specialty retailers and manufacturers in the form of books, conferences, seminars and more. Selling Your Products Abroad www.kcilink.com:80/brc/marketing/v2n10.html Information on product export and market opportunities.

39 Service Bureau, LLC (The) www.xmission.com/~rexm/tsb.html Credit reporting services and Credit Manager software. Society of American Florists www.safnews.com Networking organization for the retail floral industry. South Dakota Retailers Association www.sdra.org Provides its members with legislative information, publications and links to aid in business management. Features a restaurant division as well. STAT-USA www.stat-usa.gov/ Daily economic news, statistical releases, export and trade databases and information and domestic economic databases. Total Point of Sale Solution (The) www.netaxs.com/people/bsc/index.html Produces Birds-of-Prey retail sales software and applications. Uniform Code Council, Inc. www.uc-council.org Provides and promotes standards for product identification and related electronic communications used within the retail and other industries. Valore International www.florin.com/valore/ Journal covering issues in international trade. West Publishing www.westpub.com/ Legal, educational, news, business and financial publications.

III. GENERAL RETAIL INFORMATION Associated Credit Bureaus www.acb-credit.com 1090 Vermont Ave. NW, No. 200 Washington, DC 20005-4905 Phone: 202-371-0910 FAX: 202-371-0134 News, membership information, links and more. Association for Electronic Commerce Professionals International Inc. www.aecpii.com Offers organizational information as well as membership and certificate information.

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Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 BarCode1 -- A Web of Information about Bar Code www.adams1.com/pub/russadam/barcode1.html Bar code and other automatic identification technologies. Center for Democracy and Technology www.cdt.org Information on free speech, data privacy, wiretapping, cryptography, legislation and what can be done to take action. Center for Media Education www.cme.org/cme Non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of e-media, especially for children and families. Offers organizational information, press releases and contacts. Coalition of Service Industries www.uscsi.org Events bulletin, membership information and more. Computer Professionals for Social Responsibility http://snyside.sunnyside.com/home Events, programs, links, news and a handy search engine. Credit Card Users of America PO Box 7100 Beverly Hills, CA 90212 Phone: 818-343-4434 Data Interchange Standards Association www.disa.org David Whitt & Associates, Inc. www.gate.net/~pdwhitt/ Real-time warehouse and inventory management software. Electronic Commerce Resource Center www.ecrc.ctc.com/ Education and training information, technical support, newsletters, online resources and a search engine. Electronic Privacy Information Center www.epic.org/ Search engine, latest news, extensive resources and policy archives as well as an online bookstore. ECLIPS (Electronic Commerce, Law and Information Policy Strategies) www.osc.edu/eclips Organizational information and news. Global Internet Liberty Campaign www.gilc.org The latest news, issues, resources and organizational information.

GrafTek Inc. www.labelview.com/graftek/ GrafTek developed LabelView, a bar-code label design package, for Windows/DOS. IMB Managing for Profit www.imb.com Home page for the developer of PEOPLE-PLANNER, a type of labor management software. Internet Privacy Coalition www.privacy.org/ipc/ Upcoming events, information and links to affiliated organizations, pending legislation information and more. Internet RE - View Online www.intertec5.com Retail industry information . Sidea www.sidea.com/ SIDEA (Service, Information, Demonstrations, Evalutations, Assistance), a retail marketing company. Vantageware www.vantageware.com/ MasterMove warehousing and distributions software.

IV. GOVERNMENT AND TRADE ORGANIZATIONS American Textile Partnership http://cbmnt1.energylan.sandia.gov Strives to strengthen the competitiveness of the integrated United States textile industry. Asia-Pacific Economic Corporation www.apecsec.org.sg Features information about APEC, new member economy information and a business center. Canadian Information Highway Advisory Council http://strategis.ic.gc.ca/SSG/ih01015e.html News, feedback, searches and more. Canadian Radio-Television and Telecommunications Commission www.ctrc.gc.ca Directory of Federal and State Institutions Accessible on the Internet (Germany) www.iid.de/service/bundeslinks_e.html Documents Center: Government Resources on the Web www.lib.umich.edu/libhome/documents.center/index.html

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 European-American Chamber of Commerce in the United States 40 W. 57th Street New York, NY 10019-4092 Phone: 212-315-2196 FAX: 212-315-2183 European Union Home Page http://s700.uminho.pt/ec.html A plethora of European business information. Easily presented through maps, flags and links.

41 Massachusetts Electronic Records and Signatures Act www.magnet.state.ma.us/itd/legal/mersa.htm A copy of the actual act. National Custom Brokers and Forwarders Association of America 1 World Trade Center, Ste. 1153 New York, NY 10048 Phone: 212-432-0050 FAX: 212-432-5709

Free Trade Area of the Americas www.ftaa-alca.org Offers an overview, ministerials, information on the trade organization committee, negotiating groups and special groups.

National Foreign Trade Council www.mincom.gov 1270 Avenue of the Americas New York, NY 10020 Phone: 212-399-7128 FAX: 212-432-5709

G7 (Germany, Canada, the United States, Italy, Japan and the United Kingdom) www.diplomatie.fr/actual/g7lyon/index.gb.html

National Institute of Standards and Technology www.nist.gov News, programs, publications, a search engine and more.

Government Printing Office (GPO) www.gpo.gov/ Online source for many government books and documents.

National Telecommunications & Information Administration www.ntia.doc.gov Press releases, information on international and domestic policy, grants, assistance information and links.

Initiative Informationgesellschaft Deutschland (Initiative Information Society Germany) www.iid.de Offers legal framework and services information. Inland International Trade Association Center for International Trade Development 1787 Tribute Road, Suite A Sacramento, CA 95815 Phone: 916-263-6578 FAX: 916-263-6571

NCITD - The International Trade Facilitation Council 2100 M. St. NW Ste. 600 Washington, DC 20037-1207 Phone: 703-519-0661 FAX: 703-519-0664 The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development www.oecd.org Activities, statistics, news and events.

International Trade Administration www.ita.doc.gov/itahome.html Features a press room, hot news, an information directory, assistance centers and information about the International Trade Administration.

Patent and Trademark Office www.uspto.gov Offers general information on patents and trademarks, and enables the user to download forms, copy files and search databases.

International Trade Council www.wnyite.org 3114 Circle Hill Rd. Alexandria, VA 22305 Phone: 703-548-6126 FAX: 916-263-6571

Secretariat for Electronic Commerce www.doc.gov/ecommerce Links, reports and more.

Japan Information Access Project www.nmjc.org/jiap/ Upcoming events, news, publications, special reports, membership information, links and more.

United Nations Commission on International Trade Law www.un.or.at/uncitral/ Extensive international trade law information and news.

Service Industries and Finance www.ita.doc.gov/industry/osi/osi.html

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Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 U.S. Census Bureau www.census.gov/ Official social, demographic and economic information. U.S. Council for International Business www.uscib.org/ Information concerning exporting.

Chain Links www.chainlinks.com/sitemap.html An international organization of retail real estate companies specializing in tenant and landlord representation.

U.S. Department of Commerce www.doc.gov/ecommerce Offers information on global electronic commerce.

The Commercial Real Estate Network (CRENET) www.crenet.com A GE Capital Services Company providing accurate information on commercial for sale and for lease properties nationwide.

U.S. Department of Commerce -- Office of Textiles and Apparel www.ita.doc.gov/industry/textiles/ Online resources for trade shows, statistics, agreements, textile and apparel imports, publications and other Department of Commerce links.

The Counselors of Real Estate (American Society of Real Estate Counselors) 430 N. Michigan Ave. Chicago, IL 60611-4089 Phone: 312-329-8427 FAX: 312-329-8881

U.S. Department of State www.state.gov Features a search archive, frequently asked questions, feedback and an indexed database.

Electronic Resource Services Property Finder www.erspros.com/propfind.html Listings of real estate professionals and commercial properties for sale or lease.

U.S. House of Representatives Internet Law Library http://law.house.gov A searchable database offers ready-to-download information.

Hahn Co. (The) www.hahncompany.com Learn about retail space.

U.S. Trade Representative www.ustr.gov News, press releases, an electronic reading room, reports, links, employment and contact information. Utah Digital Signature Development Program www.commerce.state.ut.us/web/commerce/digsig/dsmain. htm Extensive digital signature information along with frequently asked questions. The White House Framework for Global Electronic Commerce www.whitehouse.gov/WH/New/Commerce/read.html Essay featuring valuable e-commerce information. World Trade Organization www.wto.org Information on goods, services, intellectual property, environment, development, regionalism, policy reviews, dispute settlements, government procurement and more.

V. REAL ESTATE, SHOPPING CENTERS Blue Wolf Companies www.bluewolfcompanies.com Guides companies to locations in opportune markets.

Institute of Real Estate Management www.iremphx.org 430 N. Michigan Avenue Chicago, IL 60611-4090 Phone: 312-329-6000 FAX 312-661-0217 Toll-Free: 800-837-0706 Features events, membership information, a handy job bank, education information and extensive links. International Council of Real Estate Consulting Professionals 297 Dakota Street Le Sueur, MN 56058 Phone: 612-665-6280 FAX: 612-665-6270 International Council of Shopping Centers www.icsc.org A wealth of reference information, news and more. International Real Estate Institute www.iami.org 8383 E. Evans Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85260 Phone: 602-998-8267 FAX: 602-998-8022 Offers organizational information.

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 Kranzco Realty Trust www.krt.com Information about shopping centers. Macerich Co. (The) www.dwx.com:8181/%7Emaceich/ A shopping center company. Nacore International www.nacore.com 440 Columbia Dr., Ste.100 West Plam Beach, FL 33409 Phone: 407-683-8111 FAX: 407-697-4853 Reader surveys, industry news, conference information and membership news. National Association of Real Estate Brokers www.nareb.org 1629 K Street NW, Ste. 602 Washington, DC 20006 Phone: 202-785-4477 FAX: 202-785-1244 Home search services, “find a realtist” services, member information and more. National Association of Real Estate Buyer Brokers 1070 6th Ave., Ste. 307 Belmont, CA 94002 Phone: 415-591-5446 FAX: 415-592-2688 National Association of Real Estate Companies www.narec.inter.net/ PO Box 958 Columbia, MD 21044 Phone: 410-821-1614 FAX: 410-992-6363 Contacts, lists of member companies, membership information and more. National Association of Real Estate Investor Trusts (NAREIT) www.nareit.com 1129 20th Street NW, Ste. 305 Washington, DC 20036 Phone: 202-785-8717 FAX: 202-785-8718 A site visited by representatives from financial institutions. National Association of Realtors 430 N. Michigan Ave. Chicago, IL 60611 Phone: 312-329-8200 FAX: 312-329-8576

43 National Insite www.nnnsite.com/siteselect.htm Explores/researches potential real estate sites and prepares recommendations for companies based on all available research. National Realty Committee 1420 New York Ave. NW, Ste. 1100 Washington, DC 20005 Phone: 202-639-8400 FAX: 202-639-8442 National Society for Real Estate Finance www.arcat.com 2300 M St. NW, Ste. 800 Washington, DC 20037 Phone: 202-973-2801 Fast and easy access to over 300,000 pages of information, including company information, contractors and building info, industry news and more. Pension Real Estate Association www.prea.org 95 Glastonbury Blvd. Galstonbury, CT 06033 Phone: 203-657-2612 FAX: 301-589-2017 Offers membership information. Property Management Association www.pma-dc.org 8811 Colesville Road, Ste. G106 Silver Spring, MD 20910 Phone: 301-5887-6543 FAX: 301-589-2017 Job bank, newsletter, meetings, conferences, industry news and more. RealtyBooks www.inrealty.com/books/bkretail.html Offers a comprehensive selection of retail real estate books as well as a search engine. Rubin Organization (The) www.rubin.com A shopping center company. Sealy & Falgoust, Real Estate L.L.C. www.sealy-falgoust.com Professional retail real estate brokerage services. Shopping Center Bulletin Board www.scbb.com Search for real estate properties. Shopping Center Group, Inc. (The) www.theshoppingcentergroup.com Full service retail real estate company.

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Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 S/M/A Design Group International, Inc. www.smadesigngroup.com/shopping.htm Architects and planners of shopping centers and malls — members of the International Council of Shopping. Sonny Brown Associates www.sonnybrown.com/comm.html Retail real estate consulting firm. United Commercial Real Estate Online www.ucrealty.com Retail real estate companies with offices throughout Texas. Women’s Council of Realtors www.wcr.org 430 N. Michigan Ave. Chicago, IL 60611 Phone: 312-329-8483 FAX: 312-329-3290 A list of upcoming events, member information and more. WRENet-World Real Estate Network www.wren.com Includes all types of property.

VI. RETAIL MAGAZINES A. Direct Marketing Magazines Bruce Report Bruce, Dean & Company 116 New Montgomery St., Ste. 914 San Francisco, CA 94105-3607 Phone: 415-512-7305

Catalog Age Cowles business Media, Inc. 6 River Bend Center, PO Box 4949 Stamford, CT 06907-0949 Phone: 203-358-9900 Catalog Age/Direct Source Book Cowles Business Media, Inc. 4 High Ridge Park Stamford, CT 06905 Phone: 203-322-2900 FAX: 203-322-1966 Catalog Shopping in America Direct Concepts, Inc. 9000 Sunset Blvd. #525 Los Angeles, CA 90069 Phone: 310-247-4726 FAX: 310-271-1233 DM News Mill Hollow Corp. 19 W. 21st Street New York, NY 10010-6888 Phone: 212-741-2095 FAX: 212-924-6305 Day Break Direct Marketing Day in New York, Inc. 65 Commerce Road Stamford, CT 06902-4549 Desktop Direct Marketing News Jet Products 5656 Buffalo Avenue Van Nuys, CA 91401-4505 FAX: 818-785-3914

The Bullet Standard Rate & Data Service 17000 Higgins Road Des Plaines, IL 60018 Phone: 708-375-5000 FAX; 708-375-5008

Direct Cowles Business Media 911 Hope Street, Bldg.6, PO Box 4949 Stamford, CT 06907-0949 FAX: 203-348-5792

Calendata of Direct Marketing Events Ideas Buy Mail 1650 Metropolitan Avenue Bronx, NY 10462 Phone: 718-792-0389

Direct Mail List Rates and Data Standard Rate and Data Services 1700 Higgins Road Des Plaines, IL 60018 Phone: 708-375-5000 FAX: 708-375-5001

Canadian Direct Marketing News Lloydmedia 1200 Markham Road, Ste. 301 Scarborough, ON M1H 3C3 Canada Phone: 416-439-4083 FAX: 416-439-4086

Direct Marketing Association of Washington Sourcebook Direct Marketing Association of Washington 8229 Boone Blvd., Ste. 740 Vienna, VA 22812-2623 Phone: 202-429-5151 FAX: 202-223-4579

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 Direct Marketing Magazine Hoke Communications, Inc. 224 Seventh Street Garden City, NY 11530-5771 Phone: 516-746-6700 FAX: 516-294-8141 Direct Marketing Optimization Letter Lee Marc Stein, Ltd. 41 Executive Drive Hauppage, NY 11788-2112 Phone: 516-724-3765 FAX: 516-724-6202 Direct Marketing Savings Report Sayers Publishing Company PO Box 3323 Marietta, GA 30061 Phone: 404-928-7423 FAX: 404-928-8411 Direct Marketing Software Guide Hoke Communications, Inc. 224 Seventh Street Garden City, NY 11530-5771 Phone: 516-746-6700 FAX: 516-294-8141 Direct Marketing Success Letter Nicholas Direct PO Box 877 Indian Rocks Beach, FL 34635-0877 Phone: 813-596-4966 Direct Marketing Tips and Targets West Adams, Christopher and Associates 1000 W. McNab Road, Ste. 158 Pompano, FL 33069-9871 Phone: 305-384-8500 Direct Response Creative Direct marketing 1815 W. 213th Street, Ste. 210 Torrance, CA 90501-2839 Phone: 310-212-5727 FAX: 310-212-5773 Direct Response Specialist Stilson & Stilson PO Box 1075 Tarpon Springs, FL 34688-1075 Phone: 813-786-1411 Direct Success Ideas Teague Publishing Group PO Box 14689 Dayton, OH 45413-0689

45 Directions PO Box 391 Annapolis JCT, MD 20701-0391 Phone: 212-768-7277 FAX: 301-206-9789 Directory of Mail Order Catalogs Grey House Publishing Pocket Knife Square Lakeville, CT 06039 Phone: 203-435-0868 FAX: 203-435-0867 Directory of Mailing List Companies Todd Publications PO Box 301 West Nyack, NY 10994-0301 Phone: 914-358-6213 Directory of Major Mailers North American Publishing Co. 401 N. Broad St. Philadelphia, PA 19108 Phone: 215-238-5300 Drop Shipping News Drop Shipping News Box 1361 New York, NY 10017 Phone: 202-995-5030 Great Catalog Guide Direct Marketing Assn. 1111 9th Street NW, Ste. 1100 Washington, DC 20036-3603 Phone: 202-955-5030 Inside Mail Order Melinger Co. 6100 Variel Ave. Woodland Hills, CA 91367-3721 Phone: 818-884-4400 FAX: 818-594-5804 Insider Secrets JRS Printing & Advertising PO Box 2508 Calcutta, OH 43920-0508 Phone: 216-385-4474 FAX: 216-385-4474 Interactive Marketing News Eagle Publishing 7811 Montrose Rd. Potomac, MD 20854 Phone: 202-546-5005 FAX: 202-546-8759

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Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 International Home Shopping List Service Corp. 6 Trowbridge Dr. #516 Bethel, CT 06801-2858 Phone: 203-743-2600 FAX: 203-778-4299

Mailer's Review MR Publishing, Inc. 8933 NE Marx Dr. #C Portland, OR 97220-1368 Phone: 503-257-0764 FAX: 503-257-7935

Journal of Direct Marketing John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 605 Third Avenue New York, NY 10158-0012 Phone: 212-850-6861 FAX: 212-850-6088

Market Wave Market Wave PO Box 27857 Fresno, CA 93729-7587 Phone: 209-434-4946

Mail Order & Catalog Shopping American Business Directories, Inc. 5711 S 86th Cir., PO Box 27347 Omaha, NE 68127-4146 Phone: 402-593-4600 FAX: 402-331-5481 Mail Order Business Directory Todd Publications PO Box 301 West Nyack, NY 10994-0301 Phone: 914-358-6213 FAX: 9144-358-6213 Mail Order Digest National Mail Order Association 13303 Summertime Ln, #604 Culver City, CA 90230-4556 Phone: 612-788-1673 Mail-Order Marketeer Sutton Family Communications & Publishing 11565 Ridgewood Circle Seminole, FL 34642-4115 Phone: 813-391-6709 FAX: 813-391-1888

National Directory of Mailing Lists Oxbridge Communications, Inc. 150 5th Ave. , Ste. 302 New York, NY 10011-4311 Phone: 212-741-0231 FAX: 212-633-2938 VG&C Quarterly Report on Direct Marketing Vos, Grupo, Capell 60 E. 42nd St., Rm. 3810 New York, NY 10165-0006 Phone: 212-697-5753 Who's Mailing What! North American Publishing Co. 401 N. Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19108 Phone: 215-235-5300 FAX: 215-238-5270 Worldata Direct Mail List Letter Worldata 5200 Town Center Circle Boca Raton, FL 33486 Phone: 407-393-8200 B. Retailing Magazines

Mail Order Product Guide Todd Publications PO Box 301 West Nyack, NY 10994-0301 Phone: 914-358-6213 FAX: 914-358-6213

Army-Navy Store and Outdoor Merchandiser PTN Publishing Co. 445 Broad Hollow Rd., Ste. 21 Melville, NY 11747-3601 Phone: 516-845-2700 FAX: 516-845-2736

Mailbox Southam Direct Marketing Services 12 Nantucket Blvd. Scarborough, ON M1P 4W7 Canada Phone: 416-759-4711 FAX: 416-759-4053

Barnard's Retail Marketing Report Barnard Enterprises, Inc. 515 Mountain Ave., #100 Berkeley, NJ 07922-2500

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Canadian Directory of Shopping Centers Maclean Hunter Publishing, Ltd. Maclean Hunter Bldg., 777 Bay St. Toronto, ON M5W 1A7 Canada Phone: 416-596-5939 FAX: 416-596-5553

Department Store Sales by Regions Statistics Canada, Marketing Division 120 Parkdale Avenue, Rm. 1710 Ottawa, ON K1A 0T6 Canada Phone: 613-951-1581 FAX: 613-951-1584

Canadian Retailer Retail Council of Canada 210 Dundas St. W., #600 Toronto, ON M5G 2E8 Canada Phone: 416-598-4684 FAX: 416-598-1790

Department Store Sales and Stocks Statistics Canada, Marketing Division 120 Parkdale Avenur Rm. 1710 Ottawa, ON K1A 0T6 Canada Phone: 613-951-1581 FAX: 613-951-1584

Chain Merchandiser Rt. 1 Box 95C Baker City, OR 97814-9711 Phone: 503-523-2063

Department Store Workers’ Union Local 1-S News AFL-CIO 140 W 31 New York, NY 10001-3411 Phone: 212-594-6910

Chain Store Age Executive Lebhar-Freidman Inc. 425 Park Ave. New York,NY 10022-3556 Phone: 212-756-5000 Chain Store Guide Lebhar-Friedman Inc. 425 Park Ave. New York, NY 10022-3556 Phone: 212-765-5000 FAX: 212-371-9400 The College Store Nat'l Association of College Stores 500 E. Lorain St. Oberlin, OH 44074-1238 Phone: 216-775-4769 FAX: 216-334-3059 College Store Executives Executive Business Media, Inc. 825 Old Country Road, PO Box 1500 Westbury, NY 11590 Phone: 516-334-3030 FAX: 516-334-3059 Craft & Needlework Age Hobby Publications, Inc. 225 Gordon’s Corner Rd. Englishtown, NJ 07726-3342 Phone: 906-446-4900 FAX: 908-446-5488

Directory of Department Stores Chain Store Guide Information Services 3922 Coconut Palm Drive Tampa, FL 33619 Phone: 813-664-6800 FAX: 813-664-6889 Department Stores American Business Directories, Inc. 5711 S 86th Circle, PO Box 27347 Omaha, NE 68127-4146 Phone: 402-593-4600 FAX: 402-331-5481 Directory of Discount & General Merchandise Stores Pilot Books 103 Cooper Street Babylon, NY 11702-2349 Phone: 516-422-2225 FAX: 516-422-2227 Directory of Major Malls Directory of Major Malls, Inc. 7 S. Myrtle Ave, PO Box 1708 Spring Valley, NY 10977-5543 Phone: 914-426-0040 FAX: 914-426-0802 Directory of Retail Chains in Canada Maclean Hunter Publishing, Ltd. Maclean Hunter Bldg. 777 Bay St. Toronto, ON M5W 1A7 Canada Phone: 813-664-6800 FAX: 416-596-5553

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Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 Discount & General Merchandise Stores Chain Store Guide Information Services 3922 Coconut Palm Drive Tampa, FL 33619 Phone: 813-664-6800 FAX: 813-664-6882

Journal of Retailing JAI Press, Inc. 55 Old Post Rd. #2, PO Box 1678 Greenwich, CT 06836-1678 Phone: 203-632-3535 FAX: 203-661-0792

Discount Merchandiser Macfadden Holdings Publishing 233 Park Ave. South New York, NY 10022-3556 Phone: 212-979-4860 FAX: 212-979-7431

MMR -- Mass Market Retailers Racher Press, Inc. 220 5th Avenue New York, NY 10001-7798 Phone: 212-213-6000 FAX: 212-213-6106

Discount Store News Lebhar-Friedman, Inc. 425 Park Ave. New York, NY 10022-356 Phone: 212-756-5000 FAX: 212-371-9400

Midwest Retailer National Retail Federation Enterprises, Inc. 325 7th St. NW, Ste. 1000 Washington, DC 20004-2802 Phone: 212-244-8780 FAX: 212-594-0487

Factory Outlets American Business Directories, Inc. 5711 S 86th Cir., PO Box 27347 Omaha, NE 68127-4146 Phone: 402-593-4600 FAX: 402-331-5481

Midwest Retailer 8528 Columbus Ave. Bloomington,MN 55420-2460 Phone: 612-854-7610

Fairchild’s Financial Manual of Retail Stores Fairchild Publications 7 W. 34th Street New York, NY 10001-8191 Phone: 212-887-1866 FAX: 212-630-4580 Giftbeat 145 Woodland Avenue Westwood, NJ 07675-3217 Phone: 201-358-6868 FAX: 201-664-6464 ICSC Directory of Products & Services 665 Fifth Avenue New York, NY 10002-5370 Phone: 212-421-8181 FAX: 212-486-0849 Inside Retailing Lebhar-Friedman, Inc. 425 Park Ave. New York, NY 10022-3556 Phone: 212-765-5000 FAX: 212-371-9400

Monday Report on Retailers Maclean Hunter Publishing, Ltd. Maclean Hunter Bldg., 777 Bay Street Toronto, ON M5W 1A7 Canada Phone: 416-596-5939 FAX: 416-593-3166 Monthly Retail Trade: Sales and Inventories U.S. Bureau of the Census - Dept. Of Commerce Data User Services Division Washington, DC 20233-0800 Phone: 301-763-7128 FAX: 416-593-3166 Off-Price Retail Value Retail News 15950 Bay Vista Drive, Ste. 250 Clearwater, FL 34620-3131 Phone: 813-536-4047 Phelon’s Discount & Jobbing Trade Phelon, Sheldon & Marsar, Inc. 15 Industrial Ave., PO Box 0517 Fairview, NJ 07022-0517 Phone: 201-941-8804 FAX: 201-941-5515

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Retail Chain Stores Trade Dimensions 263 Tresser Blvd., 5th Fl. Stamford, CT 06901 Phone: 203-977-7600 FAX: 203-977-7645

Retailing Today Robert Kahn & Associates PO box 249 Lafayette, CA 94549-0249 Phone: 514-254-4434 FAX: 510-284-5612

RWDSU Record Retail Wholesale & Dept. Store Union 30 E. 29th St. New York, NY 10016-7997 Phone: 212-684-5300 FAX: 212-779-2809

Sheldon’s Major Stores and Chains Phelon, Sheldon & Marsar, Inc. 15 Industrial Ave., PO Box 0517 Fairview, NJ 07022-0517 Phone: 201-941-8804 FAX: 201-941-5515

Retail Chain Stores Statistics Canada, Marketing Division 120 Parkdale Avenue, Rm. 1710 Ottawa, ON K1A 0T6 Canada Phone: 613-951-1581 FAX: 613-951-1584

Shopping Center Ad Trends National Research Bureau 150 N. Wacher Drive Chicago, IL 60601 Phone: 319-752-5415 FAX: 319-752-3421

Retail Information Systems News Edgell Communications 10 W. Hanover Ave., Ste. 7 Randolph, NJ 07869-4214 Phone: 201-895-3000 FAX: 201-895-7711

Shopping Center Digest Jomurpa Publishing, Inc. 7 S. Myrtle Ave. #1708 Spring Valley, NY 10977-5543 Phone: 914-426-0040 FAX: 914-426-0802

Retail Management Letter Management Facts Company, Rupp 48153 Colony Farms Center Plymouth, MI 48170-3304 Phone: 313-459-1080

Shopping Center Directory National Research Bureau 150 N. Wacher Drive Chicago, IL 60601 Phone: 319-752-5415 FAX: 319-752-3421

Retail Performance Monitor CSM Communications Co., Inc. 195 Smithtown Blvd. Nesconset, NY 11767-1869 Phone: 516-265-3900 FAX: 516-265-3281 Retail Roundup Comex Rista Co. 22 Juniper Rd. Port Washington, NY 11050-1435 Phone: 516-767-9331 FAX: 516-767-3710 Retail Systems Alert PO Box 332, 77 Oak Street Newton Uper Falls, MA 02164-9806 Retailer and Marketing News Ramnvest, Inc. PO Box 191105 Dallas, TX 75219-8105 Phone: 214-871-2930

Shopping Center Directory’s Top Contacts Blackburn Marketing Services U.S., Inc. 150 N. Wacher Dive Chicago, IL 60601 Phone: 312-541-0100 FAX: 312-541-1492 Shopping Center Newsletter National Research Bureau 150 N. Wacher Drive Chicago, IL 60601 Phone: 319-346-9097 FAX: 319-541-1492 Shopping Centers American Business Directories, Inc. 5711 S. 86th Cir., PO Box 27347 Omaha, NE 68127-4146 Phone: 402-593-4600 FAX: 402-331-5481

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Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 Shopping Centers Today 665 5th Avenue New York, NY 10022-5370 Phone: 212-421-8181 FAX: 212-486-0849 Store Equipment and Design SED Publishing 1700 W. Irving Park Road Chicago, IL 60613 Phone: 312-281-4441 FAX: 312-281-8275 Store Planning Service Retail Reporting Corp. 302 5th Avenue, Fl. 11 New York, NY 10001-3604 Phone: 212-279-7000 FAX: 212-279-7014 Stores National Retail Federation Enterprises, Inc. 325 7th Street NW, Ste. 1000 Washington, DC 20004-2802 Phone: 202-783-7971 FAX: 202-737-2849 Stores of the Year Retail Reporting Corporation 302 5th Avenue, Fl. 11 New York, NY 10001-3604 Phone: 212-279-7000 FAX: 212-279-7014 Value Retail News PO Box 7870 Saint Petersburg, FL 33734-7870 Phone: 813-541-6438 Variety Stores American Business Directories, Inc. 5711 S 86th St., PO Box 27347 Omaha, NE 68127-4146 Phone: 402-593-4600 FAX: 402-331-5481 Views Retail Reporting Corp. 302 5th Avenue, Fl. 11 New York, NY 10001-3604 Phone: 212-279-7000 FAX: 212-279-7014

Visual Merchandising & Store Design ST Publicaitons 407 Gilbert Ave. Cincinnati, OH 45202-2285 Phone: 513-421-2050 FAX: 513-421-5144 Yard & Garden Johnson Hill Press, Inc. 1233 Janesville Ave., PO Box 803 Ft. Atkinson, WI 53538-0803 Phone: 414-563-6388 FAX: 414-563-1699 C. Online Retail Magazines American Demographics Magazine www.marketingtools.com American Venture www.businessexchange.com Brand Marketing www.brandmarketing.com Building Material Retailer www.bmrmag.com Business Geographics www.geoplace.com Business in Vancouver www.biv.com Canadian Business www.canbus.com Canadian Grocer www.mhbizlink.com/grocer/ Canadian Retailer www.retailcouncil.org Chain Store Age www.chainstoreage.com Colloquy www.colloquy.com Cornell Quarterly www.sha.cornell.edu/publications Direct Marketing www.the-dma.org

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Discount Merchandiser www.macfadden.com/discount.dm.html

Stores www.stores.org

Display & Design Ideas www.ddimagazine.com

Supermarket Business www.supermarketbusiness.com

The European Retail Digest www.templeton.ox.ac.uk/www/insts/oxirm/digest

Supermarket News www.supermarketnews.com

Forbes Magazine www.forbes.com

V Store News www.vstorenews.com

Frozen Food Age www.frozenfoodage.com

Value Retailing News www.icsc.org/vrn/current

Furniture Info www.furninfo.com

D. Retail Real Estate Magazines

Globe & Mail Report on Business Magazine www.robmagazine.com Gourmet Retailer www.gourmetretailer.com/index.html Inc. Magazine www.inc.com Internet Shopper Magazine www.internet-shopper.com KPMG Consumer Markets Insider www.us.kpmg.com/publications_frame.html The McKinsey Quarterly www.mckinsey.co9m/publications_frame.html

Leasing Professional PO Box 5675 Scottsdale, AZ 85261-5675 Phone: 602-860-0659 FAX: 602-451-7957 Retail Tenant Directory Trade Dimensions 263 Tresser Blvd., 5th Fl. Stamford, CT 06901 Phone: 203-997-7600 FAX: 203-977-7645 Shopping Center World Argus Business 6151 Powers Ferry Rd., NW Atlanta, GA 30339-2941 Phone: 404-955-2500 FAX: 404-955-0400

Net Innovations www.net-innovations.com Progressive Grocer www.progressivegrocer.com Retail Systems Alert www.retailsystems.com RT Magazine (Retail Technology) www.retailtech.com Sales Doctors Magazine http://salesdoctors.com SCTXtra www.icsc.org/sctxtra/current Shopping Centers Today www.icsc.org/sct/current/sct9805/

VII. STORE SECURITY, ALARMS, COMPUTER SECURITY Alarm Systems www.mindspring.com/~ko4ta/alarm.html Alarm equipment at low prices, including fire alarms, closed-circuit TVs and gate systems. Anonymity and Privacy on the Internet www.stack.urc.tue.nl/~galactus/remailers/ Discusses how you can protect your privacy and security on the Internet. Electronic Countermeasures, Inc. www.t8000.com/eci/eci.htm Security management, consulting, and investigative services.

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Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 Index of Privacy Resources www.hotwired.com/Lib/Privacy/ Magazine archive of government documents, legislation, articles on wiretapping and cryptography, and Internet groups provide news about security and right to privacy. International Association of Professional Security Consultants www.iapsc.org Non-profit organization dedicated to providing quality commercial and consumer security consulting. Special Electronic Security Products Ltd. sesp.co.il/~tunik Designs and manufactures surveillance and countersurveillance equipment and systems. STANCOM, Inc. www.mindspring.com/~stancom Security systems and equipment. In-house service available.

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Chapter 3 ON-LINE RETAILING AND NON-STORE RETAILING The non-store (“direct-selling”) category of retailing is comprised of the following sectors: Catalogs (traditional print and CD-Rom versions) and mail-order advertising Televison home-shopping channels Internet-based retailing (also see Plunkett’s ECommerce and Internet Business Almanac) Door-to-door and “party” selling Growth in mail-order and other non-store selling is far outpacing traditional retailing. Nonetheless, direct-selling as a total accounts for only 2.6% of all retail sales, excluding sales of automobiles. Direct-sales continue to grow at a yearly rate of about 10% -- twice the rate of retailing overall. The rapid growth of ecommerce on the Internet will accelerate the market share of non-store selling. Several decades ago, non-store retailing consisted only of catalogs (such as those from Sears), mail-order ads in magazines or newspapers and door-to-door peddlers of such items as Watkin’s Vanilla Extract, Fuller Brushes and Kirby Vacuums.

Today, non-store selling involves both oldfashioned methods and state-of-the-art technologies. Direct-marketing and directselling include thousands of companies offering unique, niche catalogs; television homeshopping channels; firms selling through partylike events in the home and through other individual sales representatives; telemarketers; World Wide Web-based retail sites and firms using other non-store methods. Catalogs -- Print and CD-Rom Catalog retailing remains a truly immense business even in the face of the Internet boom. 14 billion print catalogs went out to U.S. households in 1998 and accounted for an estimated $87 billion in sales. Companies like Sears, Horchow and L.L. Bean pioneered today’s catalog formats and reaped vast fortunes as a result. Catalogs remain a popular venue for items we may not want our neighbors to see us buying in a store, like merchandise from popular Victoria’s Secret catalogs. Now that reproduction of top-quality CD-ROMs containing multimedia has dropped to below one dollar each, and personal computers are featuring CD-ROM players as standard

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equipment, this medium offers very interesting promise as a retail vehicle. Nonetheless, it is rarely being utilized at this time.

Making retail purchases over the Net is growing in popularity among consumers for a variety of valid reasons, including:

Television-based shopping Television shopping shows have been an instant hit, with QVC and Home Shopping Network achieving strong yearly growth rates. QVC is reaching out to international shoppers with a 24 hour-a-day channel in Japan.

Concerns about the security of consumers’ names, addresses and credit card numbers have been successfully addressed by technology, including “secure transaction” systems, the SET standards adopted by Mastercard and VISA, and the e-cash systems invented for facilitating payments on the Web. Another advance called “SSL” (Secure Socket Layer) technology digitally encrypts sensitive consumer information that can only be decoded by the server that receives the information using digital “keys” or certificates.

Internet-based retailing (Also see Plunkett’s E-Commerce and Internet Business Almanac.) Internet-based selling is absolutely the most exciting thing that ever hit direct-selling. After all, the Internet is available around the world, morning, noon and night. Virtually every product or service can be purchased on the Internet. You name it -- airline tickets, groceries, wine, books, stocks, clothes, computers (software and hardware), toys — in short, if you want it, you can shop for it on-line. The potential market for e-retailers is enormous. A 1999 study by The University of Texas Center for Research on Electronic Commerce (Austin, Texas) estimated that 1998 sales over the Internet directly to consumers totaled $101 billion in the U.S. Retailers who can successfully build World Wide Web-based shopping sites may not have to bear the immense expense of operating retail stores or printing and mailing millions of catalogs yearly. Of course, designing and maintaining a Web site for retail involves expenses, but the flexibility and worldwide reach are far more efficient than the printing/mailing mode could ever be. Nielsen Media Research reports that the total number of on-line consumers is up 40% to 28 million in the U.S. for a nine month period ending in April 1999. The number of women shopping on-line is increasing dramatically.

The growing popularity of “personalized” Web sites. Web sites can be customized to a consumer’s tastes and shopping habits resulting in “one-to-one” marketing. Many sites use complex algorithms to make recommendations that match consumer preferences based on their shopping history. The technology used to measure and monitor the behavior of the cyber consumer is astonishing. A customer’s previous clickstreams, purchases and stated preferences are all taken into consideration when suggesting a product match. For example, at The Sharper Image’s site, customers can enter a detailed personal profile that will enable the site to show them the specific types of merchandise they’re interested in. Web sites can combine video, music, animation, graphics, photos and words, a combination that printed catalogs will never achieve. Some sites even allow the consumer to directly influence product research and development. Millions of households have purchased advanced personal computers that include relatively high-speed modems. Higher bandwidth telecommunication lines, like DSL, ISDN lines and cable modems, are being

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

introduced today. (See Plunkett’s InfoTech Industry Almanac.) The number of homes that are wired for on-line use has definitely reached critical mass already. There will be roughly 200 million people using the Net worldwide by the end of 1999. Internet site developers have learned to use powerful databases to enable consumers to conduct customized searches for products, like the more than 1.5 million book titles available at Amazon.com., that can be searched by author, title or subject. Some items are ideal for purchase over the Net when the consumer need not touch-and-feel them prior to purchase. These items include books, music CDs, personal computers, software and tickets to concerts and other events (as sold on sites operated by Ticketmaster). CDNow, www.cdnow.com, offers over 250,000 CD music titles on its Web site. 1-800-Flowers, www.flowers.com, sells millions of dollars in delivered floral arrangements via the Net each year. Items that are subject to bids or negotiated prices are also very suitable for purchase over the Net. That’s why auction sites and sites that allow consumers to post their needs to automobile dealers, who then send bids back to the car-buyer, are doing well. This allows the customer to be the one in control. (See “Internet auctions” below.) Ideally, a site on the Web shouldn’t be just another place to buy something; it should offer a better way to make that purchase. For excellent examples of sites that make shopping a better experience, click through www.amazon.com and www.dell.com. On well-designed sites such as these, consumers find broader selections of merchandise, more choices and options, more product information and other advantages that they will never receive in a physical retail store. On the other hand, cyber shoppers lack the abilityto touch and see the merchandise first hand. One company that is taking direct-selling to a new level is Gateway. Its Gateway Country Stores are being opened across the nation. Here

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consumers can actually see and use Gateway computers before placing an order for a computer to be built and and delivered to their homes or businesses. These showroom-type stores supplement Gateway’s catalogs and website. Traditional merchants know that information about stores and merchandise gathered by consumers over the Net will also lead to additional store sales by walk-in, telephone and fax methods, as well as direct purchases made on-line. Internet consumers can also participate in virtual auctions on sites like e-Bay.com. The auctions are real-time and last a few hours at a time. The virtual auctions function in a manner very similar to real auctions, with bidders competing for products like jewelry, clothing, golf clubs and collectibles. The bidding up is done in set increments, similar to the format of real auctions. PriceLine.com. allows cybershoppers to bid for airline tickets and hotel rooms. Amazon.com and Sharper Image also recently rolled out auction formats, and mortgage companies are entering into the auction fray as well. IMX Mortgage Exchange posts brokers loan requests, and participating lenders bid on them. Virtual auctions are expected to account for nearly 30% of all ecommerce by the year 2002. Watch for retail selling on-line to get bigger and better by quantum leaps. For example, methods of providing forgery-proof identification for online consumers have improved greatly in recent years, thanks to developments by GTE in Stamford, Connecticut and by VeriSign in Mountain View, California. Technology for making purchases over the Net, even small purchases that total only a few cents, has improved thanks to payment systems initiated by CyberCash and CyberCoin of Reston, Virginia. AT&T and IBM have launched their own major programs to help retailers establish Webbased selling sites. America Online continues to sell hundreds of thousands of dollars in merchandise daily via its on-line service that

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now reaches more than 16 million members. In fact, America received an incredible injection of nearly $100 million in cash and stock warrants from a small long-distance telephone service provider in exchange for an agreement whereby America Online sells this firm’s long-distance service to its members. This is one of the best indicators-to-date of the perceived power of online selling. Major, traditional retail merchants, even those dominant in their store segments, are investing heavily in new Web sites, including Wal-Mart and Sears. Selling on-line is no longer a unique and futuristic thought that has lots of room for doubt -- it’s a vibrant mode of alternative selling that is rocketing ahead at a rate so fast that no one pundit can keep up with it. Wal-Mart’s website now gets nearly one million visitors monthly and will produce about $50 million in sales next year. Retailers can save costs by selling over the Net. That’s because they don’t have to rent or build expensive retail store spaces, print and mail catalogs, pay commissions to salespersons, or endure other front-end costs. Many carry only small amounts of merchandise and order on a just-in-time basis from their vendors. The low operating costs of Web-based vendors is passed along to consumers as competition mounts (something that has rarely happened in the printed catalog business). Traditional retailers will be forced to adapt to these rapidly changing business conditions in the same way they were forced to adapt by the roaring success of WalMart and other discount center operators.

Personal Computers Without a doubt, computer software and hardware are the most shopped for products on the Internet. Personal computers that are sold directly have made phenomenal successes out of Gateway and Dell. Both companies allow consumers to configure their own PC specs by selecting from a wide range of device and software options such as operating system, sound and video cards and RAM capacity. Dell has taken it a step further by providing customized, private ordering sites for its best customers, allowing them direct access to order tracking and special discounts. Dell’s Internet-based site is ringing up millions of dollars daily in sales. Compaq, one of Dell’s biggest rivals, is building up its own direct-sales effort while maintaining its traditional retailer reseller base. Meanwhile, competitor Gateway is using a unique combination of the Internet, retail showrooms and print advertising to drive business. Groceries over the Net One of the most intriguing goals of some entrepreneurs is to convince grocery shoppers to order over the Net. Food retailing is inherently a highly-perishable, low-margin enterprise, which is why this sector of on-line retailing has been slow to develop. Peapod, an aggressive service that has been in business since 1989, has been building a base of shoppers slowly-but-surely. It operates through major retail grocery chains in Boston, Chicago, San Francisco, Ohio, Houston and other cities. Customers order on-line via Peapod and then receive home delivery of groceries that are packed at the participating supermarkets. The retail customer pays a fee for this service. Several other on-line grocers are competing against Peapod. The most ambitious effort may be the rapidly-growing Webvan Group, Inc. Webvan began selling groceries to Internet customers in the San Francisco Bay area during mid-1999. It has accumulated more than $120 million in venture fund capital, and plans to raise more than $1 billion in additional capital, much of which may be in the form of a junk bond offering. Webvan plans to rapidly gain

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

nationwide marketshare by building highly automated warehouses in 26 major markets across the U.S. It currently has a state-of-the-art warehouse in Oakland, totaling 330,000 square feet, to serve its first market area. A second warehouse is already under construction in Atlanta. Webvan believes that high volume and highly efficient warehouses will enable it to profitably offer free delivery to the home, as Webvan will not have to build and operate costly neighborhood stores. Party-based selling and other personal, directselling methods While this type of non-store retailing has been with us for a long time, the growing struggle of middle-class American families to become stable, two-income households has added greatly to the popularity of personal selling. Look, for example, at the business being rung up by Amway: $6.8 billion in yearly sales worldwide, 13,000 people actually employed by the firm, plus 2,500,000 people who act as “independent distributors” doing personalselling of Amway’s plethora of products. One fairly new entrant to the field that is gaining rapid popularity is Pampered Chef, LTD., based in Addision, Illinois. Pampered Chef sells unique kitchenware through independent distributors who generally throw “parties” to create sales. This firm has already grown to more than $300 million in yearly sales through 30,000 people it calls “consultants.” Technical advances will increase sales by increasing consumer faith in Internet security One of the biggest areas of opportunity lies in the handling of commerce over the Internet, particularly the secure acceptance and processing of credit cards. An industry standard for on-line charges has been developed within the VISA/MasterCard system. This standard is referred to as SET, or Secure Electronic Transactions. Using this standard, software companies and service providers are joining hands to make credit card business easily done

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over the Net. With SET in place at a Webbased retailer, a Net customer can go to that Web site and purchase products on-line with confidence in the integrity and security of the transaction. Within seconds, the order is processed, the buyer’s identification and account are verified, and the transaction is complete. SET accomplishes the following: Provides confidentiality of payment and ordering information. Ensures integrity for data. Provides authentication that a cardholder is a legitimate user. Provides authentication that a merchant can accept bankcard payments. Facilitates and encourages use across various software and network providers. A similar technology called Secure Socket Layer (SSL) transactions functions much the same. A service company like Verisign issues a digital certificate to the host of the Web site. When a consumer sends vital information like credit card and address information to the company’s Web site, that information is encrypted so that when it arrives at the company’s Web server, it looks like a big jumble of letters, characters and numbers, and only the digital certificate can unscramble it. In addition to using credit cards, consumers, as well as businesses, are able to transfer funds over the Net. Many Americans now pay bills on-line using the services of the CheckFree firm or its competitors. CheckFree has teamed up with CyberCash, www.cybercash.com, to offer a secure “digital wallet” for the electronic payment of bills.

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Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

Chapter 4 SHOPPING CENTERS

In 1956, America’s first enclosed mall opened in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Named Southdale, it was the first of hundreds of climate-controlled enclosed malls to spring up in short order. Today, the American landscape is dotted with hundreds of malls connected by a web of interstate highways, and until recently, the mall was a common part of everyday American life in larger cities. Today, however, malls are losing market share to discounters, power centers, superstorebased corners and the Internet. Customers want the lower prices and greater selections offered by superstores. They want to park near the door, shop around the clock and find exactly what they’re looking for. Large numbers of major malls will either close or greatly reposition themselves over the coming decade. The traditional mall must adapt or fail. Much of that adaptation will center around becoming a onestop entertainment, dining and shopping destination of broader appeal than that offered by the boring food courts and ordinary movie theaters adjacent to shops found in most malls today. For example, Southdale recently added an 18-screen movie theater with stadium-style seating, strategically situated near the food court.

U.S. Shopping Centers Number of centers: 43,600 Total leasable area in sq. ft.: 5.33 bil. Number of adults visiting centers monthly: 189 mil. (94% of the adult population) Employment in shopping centers: 10 mil. Retail sales generated in centers 1998: $1.04 tril. Source: International Council of Shopping Centers, www.icsc.org Many successful malls of the future will be connected to tourist destinations, hotels, convention centers, resorts or casinos. (For example, Rivercenter Mall on the River Walk in downtown San Antonio, Texas and the incredibly successful mall at Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas, Nevada.) Other adaptive malls will house upscale, sit-down restaurants and virtual reality-based games and rides, and offer improved customer security, amenities like valet parking and a mix of stores to including more unique merchandise and independent retailers. A recent example of a mall that has placed a premium on entertainment is Great Lakes Crossing in Michigan. This 1.4 million square

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

foot giant boasts a 1,000 seat themed food court, a 25-screen Star Theatre, 30 restaurants and almost 100 percent occupancy. Its stores are conveniently organized according to theme. This mall’s unique concept blends entertainment, upscale designer stores, manufacturer outlets, popular department stores and value retailers. These stores include Neiman Marcus Last Call, JCPenny outlet store, Oshman’s SuperSports USA, Bed Bath & Beyond and Marshalls. Likewise, the immense Mall of America in Minneapolis, Minnesota is entertainment in action. It contains 4.2 million square feet of space and is visited by an average of 110,000 people daily. Entertainment is everywhere: fourteen movie theaters, comedy clubs, night clubs, an indoor miniature golf course, a seven acre amusement park, Camp Snoopy for kids, plus over four hundred specialty shops. Entertainment will be on the minds of mall developers and mall managers for many years to come. The retail industry is still grappling with many entertainment concepts and trying to come up with the perfect amalgamation of movie megaplexes, mammoth bookstores, high-tech arcades and giant record stores to optimize customer traffic and sales. A recent survey in Shopping Center World Magazine showed a direct correlation, according to mall executives, between entertainment and sales. Retail store executives are attuned to the growing need to use entertainment to lure consumers into their stores. For example, many giant sporting goods stores now feature integral basketball courts, tennis practice areas, indoor skiing on artificial snow and other entertainment or interactive areas. TrizecHahn Development Corp. is creating a new entertainment/retail complex in Las Vegas on the 34 acre piece of land on the Strip that previously held the Aladdin Hotel and Casino. The new devleopment will include a 2,600 room hotel, a 7,000 seat theater, a 35,000 square foot high-end casino, large numbers of retail stores and a theme park area called Dessert Passage. Greater attention is also being placed on the role of the food court in the mall. Previously a

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dull, unstimulating place to grab a quick bite before moving on to the next store, food courts are now being designed with both entertainment and comfort in mind in an effort to give the shopper a second wind, thus keeping him or her in the mall as long as possible. The mix of restaurants in the modern food court includes popular fast-food establishments such as Burger King, McDonald’s and Taco Bell, as well as table-service restaurants like Chili’s and Bennigan’s. Shoppers can also satisfy their appetites for cuisine from other cultures, such as Major Entertainment/Retail Projects Under Development, 1999-2000 Centro Ybor, Tampa, Florida, 214,000 square feet of retail, completion Summer 2000 Channelside at Garrison Seaport, Tampa, Florida, 97,000 square feet retail/56,000 square feet restaurant, completion April 2000 Dolphin Mall, Miami, Florida, 1,400,000 square feet, completion late 2000 The Galaxy at Dadeland, Miami, Florida, 300,000 square feet retail/200,000 square feet office, completion early 2001 Gallery Place, Washington, D.C., 465,000 square feet, completion January 2001 Hollywood & Highland, Hollywood, California, 640,000 square feet, completion 2001 The Loop, Boston, Massachusetts, 460,000 square feet, completion May 2000 Neonopolis, Las Vegas, Nevada, 200,000 square feet, completion November 2000 New Roc City, New Rochelle, New York, 1,200,000 square feet, completion August 1999 North Bridge, Chicago, Illinois, 9 city blocks area, completion 2000 Source: Shopping Center World Chinese, Italian and Japanese. Along with increased menu choices, many modern food courts cater to the needs of parents by operating a mini-amusement park within the court for the entertainment of children. Other improvements to the old-style food court include enhancing the visual appearance with greenery and stylistic

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Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

tables and chairs and logistical improvements, such as better access to restrooms, plenty of seating space and strategically placed menu boards. Another good example of combining entertainment with shopping is the trend toward retail centers slated for development near sports arenas and stadiums. Projects like these have been planned in downtown areas in Houston (near the soon-to-be-completed Enron Field), Dallas, San Diego and Salt Lake City (near the Delta Center). The ultimate success of this new approach remains to be seen, as people are often tired after a sporting event and simply want to go home. Another factor that may affect these projects is the success or failure of the teams playing in the arena or stadium, which has a direct effect on fan attendance. A positive factor, however, would be the exposure the retail center would get by being identified with the sports complex. Another potential outcome is that the shopping center may be so well developed and marketed that it becomes less reliant on stadium traffic. Based on total sales per square foot of mall space, in 1996, mall visits per capita were down by at least 20% over the total for 1986. At about $250 today, sales per square foot per year in a typical mall are flat to down over the past ten years in terms of constant dollars adjusted for the effects of inflation. Meanwhile, the outlet mall, where everyday discounted merchandise is standard, has become widespread, made popular by the bargain-hungry status of today’s consumer. In fact, there is overbuilding of these malls in some areas. As a result of growth in outlet malls, many firms that were previously manufacturers only have also become owners and operators of large chains of outlet stores in these new outlet malls. This is particularly true in the apparel industry. After all, factories have long operated outlets at their own plant facilities, and the creation of malls full of nothing but outlets created an opportunity for manufacturers to run chains of retail stores, selling at a discount, in a quasilegitimate outlet setting. The word “outlet” is important here, because these manufacturers

have to create a situation in which the traditional retailers, such as department stores, that carry their full-price merchandise won’t be able to complain that the outlets are hurting their fullprice stores. Today, the life expectancy of the traditional mall without up-to-date entertainment features may be very short. The 2,500 or so malls of all sizes that exist in the U.S. today may shrink to 1,200 to 2,000 over the next 15 to 20 years as existing properties are closed, torn-down or remodeled to better fit today’s shopping patterns. This isn’t to say that new malls will never be built, only that consolidation of malls will likely occur, and that underperforming malls will be phased out or vastly altered. In fact, the International Council of Shopping Centers counts 488 major "regional" malls participating in its monthly mall sales index for 1998, up from 417 in 1994, an average annual growth rate of 4%. Of course, most new malls are built close to some of the fastest growing communities in the nation today, such as in Central Florida, or they are built in alternative locations: downtown, near entertainment or sports complexes or near convention centers. Malls like these can cost more than $100 per square foot to build today, putting these new properties in the range of $50 million to $200 million investments each. Other types of shopping center properties, such as power centers, have been developing rapidly, in many cases robbing traffic from traditional malls. Fueled largely by investment money provided by pension funds, REITs (real estate investment trusts) and professional money managers, these new shopping centers became very popular, if not always profitable, investments. In fact, pension plans and other institutional investors have poured more than $100 billion into investments in shopping centers and malls of all types. The number of shopping centers in America reached about 43,600 by 1998, up about 1.7% over the previous year, according to the National Research Bureau. There are nearly 20 square feet of shopping center space for every

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

resident of the U.S -- about double the amount of ten years ago. Meanwhile, shopping patterns have changed dramatically in recent years, largely because of the phenomenal success of discount stores such as Wal-Mart, Sam’s Clubs, and Costco. Many of today’s shoppers want to park near the front of the store. They are looking for deep selections of merchandise at bargain prices. Fifteen years ago, the major mall, frequently containing hundreds of stores and more than one million square feet of selling space, was the shopping destination of choice. Today’s preferred shopping site is more likely to be a Sam’s Club. Construction of new shopping center space is still booming. In 1997, 227 million square feet of space was either built or remodeled, up from 173 million in 1991. WalMart, the apparently unstoppable major growth story in retailing, budgeted $4 billion for capital expenditures in 1998, including expansion into U.S. urban areas and international territory such as China, South Korea and Germany. As long as consumer spending is strong and the soaring stock markets and economic boom of 1998 and early 1999 continue, new retail center development will continue unabated. New housing community development is at a near record high, and those new neighborhoods combine to make growing suburbs that need new stores. Meanwhile, redevelopment of existing urban retail areas is continuing at a rapid pace. However, rent in many of these new and redeveloped centers can be very expensive. For example, a small shoe repair shop in a luxuriously remodeled center in the affluent River Oaks area of Houston, Texas recently reported paying annual rent of nearly $40,000 when common area costs are included. Costly new buildings charging high rental rates can only be supported by a high level of retail sales. If the economy slows significantly or if consumer spending slackens, today’s excessive number of retail centers will have occupancy problems and reduced income. Such a situation could be caused by a stock

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market slump, a rise in unemployment, increased interest rates or a collapse in consumer confidence.

Leading Shopping Center/Mall/Outlet Mall Owners and Managers Acadia Realty Trust 805 Third Ave. 9th Floor New York, NY 10022 Ph.: 212-421-8830 Fax: 212-421-2290 Aronov Realty 3500 Eastern Blvd. P.O. Box 235000 Montgomery, AL 36116 Ph.: 334-277-1000 Fax: 334-272-0747 Benderson Development Co. Inc. 570 Delaware Ave. Buffalo, NY 14202 Ph.: 716-886-0211 Fax: 716-886-2269 Bradley Real Estate 40 Skokie Blvd., Ste. 600 Northbrook, IL 60062 Ph.: 847-272-9800 Fax: 847-480-1893 Burnham Pacific 610 W. Ash St., Ste. 1600 San Diego, CA 92101 Ph.: 619-652-4700 Fax: 619-652-4711 Cafaro Co., The 2445 Belmont Ave. P.O. Box 2186 Youngstown, OH 44504 Ph.: 330-747-2661 Fax: 330-743-2902

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Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

Cambridge Shopping Centres Ltd. 95 Wellington St. West, Ste. 300 Toronto, ON M5J 2R2 Canada Ph.: 416-369-1200 Fax: 416-369-1238

Crown American Realty Trust Pasquerilla Plaza Johnstown, PA 15901 Ph.: 814-536-4441 Fax: 814-535-9486

CBL & Associates Properties Inc. One Park Place 6148 Lee Highway, Ste. 300 Chattanooga, TN 37421-6511 Ph.: 423-855-0001 Fax: 423-490-8662

Developers Diversified Realty Corp. 34555 Chagrin Blvd. P.O. Box 8022 Chagrin Falls, OH 44022 Ph.: 440-247-4700 Fax: 440-247-1118

CB Richard Ellis 533 S. Fremont Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90071 Ph.: 213-613-3123 Fax: 213-613-3535

Donahue Schriber 3501 Jamboree Road, Ste. 300 South Tower Newport Beach, CA 92660 Ph.: 949-854-2100 Fax: 949-854-4251

Cencor Realty Services Inc. 3102 Maple Ave., Ste. 500 Dallas, TX 75201 Ph.: 214-954-0300 Fax: 214-953-0860 CenterAmerica Property Trust 3901 Bellaire Blvd. Houston, TX 77025 Ph.: 713-660-4300 Fax: 713-349-0901

Don M. Casto Organization 209 E. State St. Columbus, OH 43215 Ph.: 614-228-5331 EBL & S Property Management Inc. 230 S. Broad St. Mezzanine Level Philadelphia, PA 19102 Ph.: 215-790-4700 Fax: 215-790-4733

Center Trust 3500 Sepulveda Blvd. P.O. Box 10010 Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 Ph.: 310-546-4520 Fax: 310-546-6798

Edens & Avant 1901 Main St., Ste. 900 Columbia, SC 29201 Ph.: 803-779-4420 Fax: 803-799-1599

Colonial Properties Trust 2101 Sixth Ave. North, Ste. 750 Birmington, AL 35203-2775 Ph.: 205-250-8700 Fax: 205-250-8890

Federal Realty Investment Trust 1626 East Jefferson St. Rockville, MD 20852 Ph.: 301-998-8100 Fax: 301-998-3702

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

Forest City Enterprises Inc. 1100 Terminal Tower 50 Public Square Cleveland, OH 44113 Ph.: 216-621-6060 Fax: 216-523-1431 General Growth Properties 110 N. Wacker Drive Chicago, IL 60707 Ph.: 312-960-5000 Fax: 312-960-5475 Glimcher Realty Trust 20 South Third St. Columbus, OH 43215 Ph.: 614-621-9000 Fax: 614-621-9311 Inland Real Estate Investment Corp./Inland Commercial Property Management 2901 Butterfield Road Oak Brook, IL 60523 Ph.: 630-218-8000 Fax: 630-218-4935 Insignia/ESG 200 Park Ave. New York, NY 10166 Ph.: 212-984-8000 Fax: 212-984-8040 IRT Property Co. 200 Galleria Pkwy., Ste. 1400 Atlanta, GA 30339 Ph.: 770-955-4406 Fax: 770-612-9030 JDN Realty Corp. 359 E. Paces Ferry Road Atlanta, GA 30305 Ph.: 404-262-3252 Fax: 404-364-6446

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J.J. Gumberg Co. 1051 Brinton Rd. Pittsburgh, PA 15221-4599 Ph.: 412-244-4000 Fax: 412-244-9133 JP Realty Inc. 35 Century Park-Way Salt Lake City, UT 84115 Ph.: 801-486-3911 Fax: 801-486-7653 Kimco Realty Corp. 3333 New Hyde Park Road, Ste. 100 New Hyde Park, NY 11042-0020 Ph.: 516-869-9000 Fax: 516-869-9001 Kravco Co. 234 Mall Blvd. King of Prussia, PA 19406 Ph.: 610-768-6300 Fax: 610-768-6440 Kroenke Group, The 1001 Cherry St. Centre, Ste. 308 Columbia, MO 65201 Ph.: 573-449-8323 Fax: 573-449-2643 LaSalle Partners Inc. 200 East Randolph Drive Chicago, IL 60601 Ph.: 312-782-5800 Fax: 312-782-4339 Macerich Co., The 401 Wilshire Blvd., Ste. 700 Santa Monica, CA 90401 Ph.: 310-394-6911 Fax: 310-394-0632

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Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

Mid-America Real Estate Group 2 Mid-America Plaza Ste. 330 Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181 Ph.: 630-954-7300 Fax: 630-954-7304 Mills Corp., The 1300 Wilson Blvd. Ste. 400 Arlington, VA 22209 Ph.: 703-526-5000 Fax: 703-526-5111 New Plan Excel Realty Trust 1120 Avenue of the Americas New York, NY 10036 Ph.: 212-869-3000 Fax: 212-869-3989 Pennsylvania Real Estate Investment Trust 200 S. Broad St. 3rd Floor Philadelphia, PA 19090 Ph.: 215-875-0700 Prime Retail 100 E. Pratt St. 19th Floor Baltimore, MD 21202 Ph.: 410-234-0782 Fax: 410-234-1701 Pyramid Co., The 4 Clinton Square Syracuse, NY 13202 Ph.: 315-422-7000 Fax: 315-422-2717 Ramco-Gershenson Properties Trust 27600 Northwestern Hwy., Ste. 200 Southfield, MI 48034 Ph.: 248-350-9900 Fax: 248-350-9925

R.D. Management Corp. 810 Seventh Ave. 28th Floor New York, NY 10019 Ph.: 212-265-6600 Fax: 212-459Regency Realty Corp. 121 W. Forsyth St., Ste. 200 Jacksonville, FL 32202 Ph.: 904-356-7000 Fax: 904-634-3428 Richard E. Jacobs Group Inc., The 25425 Center Ridge Road Cleveland, OH 44145 Ph.: 440-871-4800 Fax: 440-808-6905 Rosen Associates Management Corp. 33 South Service Road Jericho, NY 11753 Ph.: 515-333-2000 Fax: 516-333-7555 Rouse Co., The 10275 Little Patuxent Pkwy. Columbia, MD 21044 Ph.: 410-992-6000 Fax: 410-992-6363 RREEF Funds, The 875 N. Michigan Ave. 41st Floor Chicago, IL 60611 Ph.: 312-266-9300 Fax: 312-266-9346 Schostak Brothers & Co. 25800 Northwestern Hwy. Ste. 750 Southfield, MI 48075 Ph.: 248-262-1000 Fax: 248-262-1814

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Simon Property Group 115 W. Washington St. Indianapolis, IN 46204 Ph.: 317-263-7148 Fax: 317-263-7925

WellsPark Group 1 Wells Avenue Newton, MA 02459 Ph.: 617-965-6000 Fax: 617-243-7396

S.R. Weiner & Associates Inc. 1330 Boylston St. Ste. 212 Chestnut Hill, MA 02467 Ph.: 617-232-8900 Fax: 617-738-1628

Westcor Partners 11411 N. Tatum Blvd. Phoenix, AZ 85028 Ph.: 602-953-6474 Fax: 602-494-6118

Taubman Centers Inc. 200 E. Long Lake Road P.O. Box 200 Bloomfield Hills, MI 48303-0200 Ph.: 248-258-6800 Fax: 248-258-7697

Westfield Holdings Ltd. 11601 Wilshire Blvd. 12th Floor Los Angeles, CA 90025 Ph.: 310-478-4456 Fax: 310-478-1267

Trammell Crow Co. 2001 Ross Ave., Ste. 3400 Dallas, TX 75201 Ph.: 214-863-3000 Fax: 214-863-4250

Wilmorite Inc. 1265 Scottsville Road Rochester, NY 14624 Ph.: 716-464-9400 Fax: 716-464-0706

Urban Shopping Centers Inc. 900 N. Michigan Ave., Ste. 1500 Chicago, IL 60611 Ph.: 312-915-1735 Fax: 312-915-2001

Zamias Services Inc. 300 Market St. Johnstown, PA 15901 Ph.: 814-535-3563 Fax: 814-536-5505

Vornado Realty Trust Park 80 West Plaza II Saddle Brook, NJ 07663 Ph.: 201-587-1000 Fax: 201-587-0060 Weingarten Realty Investors 2600 Citadel Plaza Drive, Ste. 300 Houston, TX 77008 Ph.: 713-866-6000 Fax: 713-866-6049

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Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

Chapter 5 CAREERS IN RETAIL

DETAILED OUTLOOKS FOLLOW FOR: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Cashiers Counter and Rental Clerks Purchasers and Buyers Retail Sales Worker Supervisors and Managers Retail Sales Workers

p.66 p.69 p.70 p.75 p.78

The following industry-by-industry career outlook is based largely on reports from the U.S. Department of Labor. However, many of the government’s comments have been restated to reflect the views and opinions of the editors of Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000. For the official government outlook, see Occupational Outlook Handbook, U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, January 1998 (Bulletin 2500), and Occupational Projections and Training Data, U.S. Department of Labor Statistics, January 1998 (Bulletin 2501).

Cashiers Significant Points • Good employment opportunities are expected due to the large number who leave this occupation each year. • The occupation offers an above average number of opportunities for part-time work. Nature of the Work Supermarkets, department stores, gasoline service stations, movie theaters, restaurants and many other businesses employ cashiers to register the sale of their merchandise. Most cashiers total bills, receive

money, make change, fill out charge forms and give receipts. Although specific job duties vary by employer, cashiers are usually assigned to a register at the beginning of their shifts and given drawers containing "banks" of money. They must count their banks to ensure that they contain the correct amount of money and that there are adequate supplies of change. At the end of their shifts, they once again count the drawers' contents and compare the totals with sales data. An occasional shortage of small amounts may be overlooked, but in many establishments, repeated shortages are grounds for dismissal. In addition to counting drawers at the end of their shifts, cashiers usually separate charge forms, return slips, coupons and any other non-cash items. Cashiers also handle returns and exchanges and must ensure that merchandise is in good condition and determine where and when it was purchased and what type of payment was used. After entering charges for all items and subtracting the value of any coupons or special discounts, cashiers total the bill and take payment. Acceptable forms of payment usually include cash, personal check, charge, and, increasingly, debit cards. Cashiers must know the store's policies and procedures for accepting each type of payment. For checks and charges, they may have to request additional identification from the customer or call in for an authorization. When the sale is complete,

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

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Total Jobs and Job Openings, Retail Positions 1999, 2005

Employment 1999 Buyers* Cashiers

Employment Growth in Total Jobs 1999-2005

Employment 2005

179,000

178,000

-1,000

Percent Growth as a Percent 1999-2005

Average Annual Job Openings Due to Growth and Replacement 1999-2005

-0.5%

3000

3,286,000

3,567,000

281,000

8.5%

1,110,000

Counter and Rental Clerks

395,500

451,000

55500

14.0%

130,000

Retail Salespersons

4,108,000

4,374,000

266000

6.4%

1,236,000

223,000

231,000

8000

3.5%

38,000

Order fillers** Stock Clerks

1,779,000

1,800,000

21000

1.2%

347,000

Traffic, Shipping and Receiving Clerks

813,000

827,000

14000

1.7%

163,000

Order Clerks

323,500

337,000

13500

4.1%

56,000

*Wholesale and retail buyers of non-food items

**Wholesale and retail sales

cashiers issue a receipt to the customer and return the appropriate change. They may also wrap or bag the purchase. Cashiers have traditionally totaled customers’ purchases using cash registers by manually entering the price of each product bought. However, most establishments are now using scanners and computers to total purchases. In a store with scanners, a cashier passes a product's Universal Product Code (UPC) over the scanning device, which transmits the code number to a computer. The computer identifies the item and its price. In other establishments, cashiers manually enter codes into computers, and descriptions of the items and their prices appear on the screen. Depending on the type of establishment, cashiers may have other duties as well. In many supermarkets, for example, cashiers weigh produce and bulk food as well as return unwanted items to the shelves. In convenience stores, cashiers may be required to know how to use a variety of machines other than cash registers and how to furnish money orders. Operating ticket-dispensing machines and answering customers’ questions are common duties for cashiers who work at movie theaters and ticket agencies.

Working Conditions More than one-half of all cashiers are on part-time schedules. Hours of work often vary depending on the needs of the employer. Generally, cashiers are expected to work weekends, evenings and holidays to accommodate customers' needs. However, because of this, many employers offer flexible schedules. For example, full-time workers who work on weekends may receive time off during the week. Because the holiday season is the busiest time for most retailers, many employers restrict the use of vacation time from Thanksgiving through the beginning of January. Most cashiers work indoors, usually standing in booths or behind counters. In addition, they are often unable to leave their workstations without supervisory approval because they are responsible for large sums of money. The work of cashiers can be very repetitious, but improvements in workstation design are being made to combat problems caused by repetitive motion. Employment Cashiers hold about 3,146,000 jobs. Although employed in nearly every industry, nearly one-third of all jobs are in supermarkets and other food stores. Department stores, gasoline service stations, drug stores and other retail establishments also employ

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large numbers of these workers. Because cashiers are needed in businesses and organizations of all types and sizes, job opportunities are found throughout the country. Training, Other Qualifications and Advancement Cashier jobs tend to be entry-level positions requiring little or no previous work experience. Although there are no specific educational requirements, employers filling full-time jobs often prefer applicants with high school diplomas. Nearly all cashiers are trained on the job. In small firms, beginners are often trained by an experienced worker. The first day is usually spent observing the operation and becoming familiar with the store's equipment, policies and procedures. After this, trainees are assigned to a register, frequently under the supervision of a more experienced worker. In larger firms, before being placed at cash registers, trainees first spend several days in classes. Topics typically covered include a description of the industry and the company, instruction on the store's policies, procedures, equipment operation and security. Training for experienced workers is not common, except when new equipment is introduced or when procedures change. In these cases, training is given on the job by the employer or a representative of the equipment manufacturer. Persons who want to become cashiers should be able to do repetitious work accurately. They also need basic arithmetic skills and good manual dexterity, and, because they deal constantly with the public, cashiers should be neat in appearance and able to deal tactfully and pleasantly with customers. In addition, some firms seek persons who have operated specialized equipment or who have business experience such as typing, selling or handling money. Advancement opportunities for cashiers vary. For those working part-time, promotion may be to a fulltime position. Others advance to head cashier or cash office clerk. In addition, this job offers a good opportunity to learn an employer's business and can serve as a stepping stone to a more responsible position. Job Outlook As in the past, employment opportunities for cashiers are expected to continue to be good because of the many job openings created each year due to the need to replace the large number of workers who transfer to other occupations or leave the labor force. Cashier employment is expected to increase about as quickly as the average for all occupations through

the year 2006 due to expanding demand for goods and services by a growing population. Traditionally, workers under the age of 25 have filled about half of the openings in this occupation. Recently, some establishments have begun hiring elderly and disabled persons as well to fill some of their job openings. Opportunities for part-time work are expected to continue to be excellent. Earnings Cashiers' earnings range from the minimum wage to several times that amount. Wages tend to be higher in areas where there is intense competition for workers. In establishments covered by Federal law, those beginning at the minimum wage earn $5.15 an hour. In some States, the minimum wage in many establishments is governed by State law, and where State minimums are higher, the establishment must pay at least that amount. Median weekly earnings for full-time cashiers are $247. The middle 50 percent earn between $198 and $328; 10 percent earn below $165; and 10 percent earn above $486. Benefits for full-time cashiers tend to be better than for those working part-time. Cashiers often receive health and life insurance as well as paid vacations. In addition, those working in retail establishments often receive discounts on purchases, and cashiers in restaurants may receive free or lowcost meals. Some employers also offer employee stock option plans. Related Occupations Cashiers accept payment for the purchase of goods and services. Other workers with similar duties include food counter clerks, bank tellers, counter and rental clerks, postal service clerks and sales clerks. Sources of Additional Information General information on retailing is available from: ∗National Retail Federation, 325 7th St. N.W., Suite 1000, Washington, DC 20004-2802. www.nrf.com *Food Marketing Institute, 800 Connecticut Ave. N.W., Washington, DC 20006. For information about employment opportunities as a cashier, contact: *National Association of Convenience Stores, 1605 King St., Alexandria, VA 22314-2792. *Service Station Dealers of America, 9420 Annapolis Rd., Suite 307, Lanham, MD 20706.

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

*International Mass Retail Association, 1700 N. Moore St., Suite 2250, Arlington, VA 22209-1998. *United Food and Commercial Workers International Union, Education Office, 1775 K St. N.W., Washington, DC 20006-1502.

Counter and Rental Clerks Significant Points • Jobs are primarily entry level and require little or no experience and little formal education. • Part-time employment opportunities are expected to be plentiful. Nature of the Work Whether renting video tapes or air compressors, dropping off clothes to be dry-cleaned or appliances to be serviced, counter and rental clerks are relied on to handle transactions efficiently. Although specific duties vary by establishment, counter and rental clerks are responsible for answering questions involving product availability, cost and rental provisions. Counter and rental clerks also take orders, calculate fees, receive payments and accept returns. Regardless of where they work, counter and rental clerks must be knowledgeable about the company's services, policies and procedures. Depending on the type of establishment, counter and rental clerks use their special knowledge to give advice on a wide variety of products and services, which may range from hydraulic tools to shoe repair. For example, in the car rental industry, clerks inform customers of features of different types of automobiles available and daily and weekly rental costs, ensure that customers meet age and other requirements, and indicate when and in what condition cars must be returned. In dry cleaning establishments, counter clerks inform customers when items will be ready. When taking orders, counter and rental clerks use various types of equipment. In some establishments, clerks write out tickets and order forms. However, computers and bar code scanners are quickly becoming the norm. Most of these computer systems are user friendly and usually require very little data entry. Scanners "read" the product code and display a description of the item on a computer screen. Clerks must insure, however, that the data on the screen matches the actual product.

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Working Conditions Because firms employing counter and rental clerks generally operate at the convenience of customers, clerks often work night and weekend hours. However, because of this, many employers offer flexible schedules. Some counter and rental clerks work 40-hour weeks, but over one-half are on part-time schedules, usually during rush periods, such as weekends, evenings and holidays. Working conditions are usually pleasant; most stores and service establishments are clean, well-lit and temperature controlled. However, clerks are on their feet much of the time and may be confined behind a small counter area. This job requires constant interaction with the public and can be taxing, especially during busy periods. Employment Counter and rental clerks hold 374,000 jobs. About one of every four clerks works for a video tape rental establishment. Other large employers include laundries or dry cleaners, automobile rental firms, equipment rental firms and miscellaneous entertainment and recreation establishments. Counter and rental clerks are employed throughout the country but are concentrated in metropolitan areas where personal services and renting and leasing services are in greater demand. Training, Other Qualifications and Advancement Counter and rental clerk jobs are primarily entry level and require little or no experience and little formal education. However, many employers prefer those with at least a high school diploma. In most companies, counter and rental clerks are trained on the job, sometimes through the use of video tapes, brochures and pamphlets. Clerks usually learn how to operate the equipment and become familiar with the establishment's policies and procedures under the observation of a more experienced worker. However, some employers have formal classroom training programs that last from a few hours to a few weeks. Topics covered in this training usually include a description of the industry, the company and its policies and procedures, equipment operation, sales techniques and customer service. Counter and rental clerks must also become familiar with the different products and services rented or provided by their company in order to give customers the best possible service. Counter and rental clerks should enjoy working with people and should have the ability to deal tactfully

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Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

with difficult customers. In addition, good oral and written communication skills are essential. Advancement opportunities depend on the size and type of company. Many establishments that employ counter or rental clerks tend to be small businesses, making advancement difficult. In larger establishments with a corporate structure, jobs as counter and rental clerks offer good opportunities for workers to learn about their company's products and business practices. These jobs can act as steppingstones to more responsible positions due to the commonplace practice of advancing counter and rental clerks to assistant managerial positions. In certain industries such as equipment repair, counter and rental jobs may be an additional or alternate source of income for workers who are unemployed or entering semi-retirement. For example, retired mechanics could prove invaluable at tool rental centers because of their relevant knowledge. Job Outlook Employment in this occupation is expected to increase faster than the average for all occupations through the year 2006 due to anticipated employment growth in the industries where they are concentrated—business services, automotive rentals and amusement and recreation services. Some openings due to growth are expected to meet consumers’ anticipated increased acceptance of renting items instead of buying them. Despite this, most job openings will arise from the need to replace experienced workers who transfer to other occupations or leave the labor force. Part-time employment opportunities are expected to be plentiful. Earnings Counter and rental clerks typically start at minimum wage, which, in establishments covered by Federal law, is $5.15 an hour. In areas where there is intense competition for workers, however, wages are often higher. In addition to wages, some counter and rental clerks receive commissions based on the number of contracts they complete or services they sell. Retail counter clerks earn a median weekly income of $303. The middle 50 percent earn between $230 and $489 a week. The bottom 10 percent earn less than $184; while the top 10 percent earn more than $631. Full-time workers typically receive health and life insurance as well as paid vacations and sick leave. Benefits for counter and rental clerks who work parttime tend to be significantly less than for those who

work full-time. Many companies offer discounts to both full- and part-time employees on the services they provide. Related Occupations Counter and rental clerks take orders and receive payment for services rendered. Other workers with similar duties include cashiers, retail sales workers, food counter clerks, postal service clerks and bank tellers. Sources of Additional Information For general information on employment in the equipment rental industry, contact: *American Rental Association, 1900 19th St., Moline, IL 61265. For more information about the work of counter clerks in dry cleaning and laundry establishments, contact: *International Fabricare Institute, 12251 Tech Road, Silver Spring, MD 20904. For general information on employment in the rentto-own industry, contact: *Association of Progressive Rental Organizations, 9015 Mountain Ridge Dr., Suite 220, Austin, TX 78759. www.apro-rto.com

Purchasers and Buyers Significant Points Computerization has reduced the demand for lowerlevel buyers. About one-half were employed in wholesale or retail trade. Nature of the Work Purchasers and buyers seek to obtain the highest quality merchandise at the lowest possible purchase cost for their employers. (In general, purchasers buy goods and services for the use of their company or organization, whereas buyers buy items for resale.) They determine which commodities or services are best, choose the suppliers of the product or service, negotiate the lowest price and award contracts that ensure the correct amount of the product or service is received at the appropriate time. In order to accomplish these tasks successfully, purchasers and buyers study sales records and inventory levels of current stock, identify foreign and domestic suppliers and keep abreast of changes affecting both the supply of and demand for products and materials for which they are responsible. Purchasers and buyers evaluate

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

suppliers based upon price, quality, service support, availability, reliability and selection. To assist them in their search, they review listings in catalogs, industry periodicals, directories and trade journals, research the reputation and history of the suppliers, and advertise anticipated purchase actions in order to solicit bids. Also, meetings, trade shows, conferences and visits to suppliers’ plants and distribution centers provide opportunities for purchasers and buyers to examine products and assess a supplier's production and distribution capabilities as well as to discuss other technical and business considerations that influence the purchasing decision. Once all the necessary information on suppliers is gathered, orders are placed and contracts are awarded to those suppliers who meet the purchasers’ needs. Other specific job duties and responsibilities vary by employer and by the type of commodities or services to be purchased. Purchasing professionals employed by government agencies or manufacturing firms are usually called purchasing directors, managers or agents, buyers or industrial buyers or contract specialists. These workers acquire product materials and intermediate goods, machines, supplies, services and other materials used in the production of a final product. Some purchasing managers specialize in negotiating and supervising supply contracts and are called contract or supply managers. Purchasing agents and managers obtain items ranging from raw materials, fabricated parts, machinery and office supplies to construction services and airline tickets. The flow of work, or even the entire production process, can be slowed or halted if the right materials, supplies or equipment are not on hand when needed. In order to be effective, purchasers and buyers must have a working technical knowledge of the goods or services to be purchased. In large industrial organizations, a distinction is often drawn between the work of a buyer or purchasing agent and that of a purchasing manager. Purchasing agents and buyers typically focus on routine purchasing tasks, often specializing in a commodity or group of related commodities, for example, steel, lumber, cotton, fabricated metal products or petroleum products. This usually requires the purchaser to track such things as market conditions, price trends or future markets. Purchasing managers usually handle more complex or critical purchases and may supervise a group of purchasing agents handling other goods and services. Whether a person is titled purchasing agent, buyer or

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manager depends more on specific industry and employer practices than on specific job duties. Changing business practices have altered the traditional roles of purchasing professionals in many industries. For example, manufacturing companies increasingly involve purchasing professionals at most stages of product development due to the ability to forecast a part's or material's cost, availability and suitability for its intended purpose. Furthermore, potential problems with the supply of materials may be avoided by consulting the purchasing department in the early stages of product design. Businesses entering into integrated supply contracts is another new practice. These contracts increase the importance of supplier selection due to larger-inscope and longer-in-duration agreements. A major responsibility of most purchasers is to work out problems that may occur with a supplier because the success of the relationship directly affects the buying firm's performance. Purchasing professionals often work closely with other employees in their own organization when deciding on purchases, an arrangement sometimes called team buying. For example, purchasing professionals may discuss the design of custom-made products with company design engineers, quality problems in purchased goods with quality assurance engineers and production supervisors, or shipment problems with managers in the receiving department before submitting an order. Contract specialists and managers in various levels of government award contracts for an array of items, including office and building supplies, services for the public and construction projects. They typically use sealed bids but sometimes use negotiated agreements for complex items. Increasingly, purchasing professionals in government are placing solicitations for and accepting bids through the Internet. Government purchasing agents and managers must follow strict laws and regulations in their work. These legal requirements are occasionally changed, so agents and contract specialists must stay informed about the latest regulations and their applications. Other professionals who buy finished goods for resale are commonly referred to as "buyers" or "merchandise managers." Wholesale and retail buyers are an integral part of a complex system of distribution and merchandising. Wholesale buyers purchase goods directly from manufacturers or from other wholesale firms for resale to retail firms, commercial establishments, institutions and other organizations. In retail firms, buyers purchase goods

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from wholesale firms or directly from manufacturers for resale to the public. Buyers largely determine which products their establishment will sell. Therefore, it is essential that they have the ability to accurately predict what will appeal to consumers. They must constantly stay informed of the latest trends because failure to do so could jeopardize profits and the reputation of their company. Buyers also follow ads in newspapers and other media to check competitors' sales activities and watch general economic conditions to anticipate consumer buying patterns. Buyers working for large and mediumsized firms usually specialize in acquiring one or two lines of merchandise, whereas buyers working for small stores may purchase their complete inventory. The use of private-label merchandise and the consolidation of buying departments have increased the responsibilities of retail buyers. Private-label merchandise, produced for a particular retailer, requires buyers to work closely with vendors to develop and obtain the desired product. The downsizing and consolidation of buying departments is also increasing the demands placed on buyers because, although the amount of work remains unchanged, there are fewer people needed to accomplish it. The result is an increase in workloads and levels of responsibility. Many merchandise managers assist in the planning and implementation of sales promotion programs. Working with merchandising executives, they determine the nature of the sale and purchase accordingly. They also work with advertising personnel to create an ad campaign. For example, merchandise managers may determine the media in which the advertisement will be placed — newspapers, direct mail, television or some combination of these. In addition, merchandising managers often visit the selling floor to ensure that the goods are properly displayed. Often, assistant buyers are responsible for placing orders and checking shipments. Computers have a major effect on the jobs of purchasers and buyers. In manufacturing and service industries, computers handle most of the more routine tasks, enabling purchasing professionals to concentrate mainly on the analytical aspects of the job. Computers are used to obtain up-to-date product and price listings, track inventory levels, process routine orders and help determine when to make purchases. Computers also maintain bidders' lists, record the history of supplier performance and issue purchase orders. Computerized systems have dramatically simplified many routine buying functions and

improved the efficiency of determining which products are selling. For example, cash registers connected to computers, known as point-of-sale terminals, allow organizations to maintain centralized, up-to-date sales and inventory records. This information can then be used to produce weekly sales reports that reflect the types of products in demand. Buyers also use computers to gain instant access to the specifications for thousands of commodities, inventory records and their customers' purchase records. Some firms are linked with manufacturers or wholesalers by electronic purchasing systems. These systems speed selection and ordering and provide information on availability and shipment, allowing buyers to better concentrate on the selection of goods and suppliers. Working Conditions Most purchasers and buyers work in comfortable, well-lit offices at stores, corporate headquarters, or production or service facilities. They frequently work more than a 40-hour week because of special sales, conferences or production deadlines. Evening and weekend work is common. For those working in retail trade, this is especially true prior to holiday seasons. Consequently, many retail firms discourage the use of vacation time from late November until early January. Buyers and merchandise managers often work under great pressure because wholesale and retail stores are so competitive. Buyers need physical stamina to keep up with the fast-paced nature of their work. Many purchasers and buyers spend at least several days a month traveling. Purchasers for worldwide manufacturing companies, large retailers and buyers of high fashion may travel outside the United States. Employment Purchasers and buyers hold about 639,000 jobs. Purchasing agents and purchasing managers each account for slightly more than one-third of the total, while buyers account for the remainder. About one-half of all purchasers and buyers work in wholesale and retail trade establishments such as grocery or department stores, and another one-fourth work in manufacturing. The remainder work mostly in service establishments or different levels of government. Training, Other Qualifications and Advancement Qualified persons usually begin as trainees, purchasing clerks, expediters, junior buyers or

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

assistant buyers. Retail and wholesale firms prefer to hire applicants who are familiar with the merchandise they sell as well as with wholesaling and retailing practices. Some retail firms promote qualified employees to assistant buyer positions; others recruit and train college graduates as assistant buyers. Most employers use a combination of methods. Educational requirements tend to vary with the size of the organization. Large stores and distributors, especially those in wholesale and retail trade, prefer applicants who have completed a bachelor's degree program with a business emphasis. Many manufacturing firms prefer applicants with a bachelor's or master's degree in business, economics or technical training, such as engineering or one of the applied sciences, and tend to put a greater emphasis on formal training. Regardless of academic preparation, new employees must learn the specifics of their employer’s business. Training periods vary in length, with most lasting one to five years. In wholesale and retail establishments, most trainees begin by selling merchandise, supervising sales workers, checking invoices on material received and keeping track of stock on hand, although widespread use of computers has simplified some of these tasks. As they progress, retail trainees are given more buying-related responsibilities. In manufacturing, new purchasing employees are often enrolled in company training programs and spend a considerable amount of time learning about company operations and purchasing practices. They work with experienced purchasers to learn about commodities, prices, suppliers and markets. In addition, they may be assigned to the production planning department to learn about material requirements systems and inventory systems the company uses to keep production and replenishment functions working smoothly. Because the procurement process is becoming more automated, it is extremely important for purchasers and buyers to be computer literate, including knowing how to use word processing and spreadsheet software. Other important qualities include the ability to analyze technical data in suppliers' proposals, good communicating, negotiating and math skills, knowledge of supply chain management and the ability to perform financial analyses. Persons who wish to become wholesale or retail buyers should be good at planning and decisionmaking and have an interest in merchandising. Anticipating consumer preferences and ensuring that goods are in stock when they are needed requires

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resourcefulness, good judgment and self-confidence. Buyers must be able to make decisions quickly and take risks. Marketing skills and the ability to identify products that will sell are also very important. Employers often look for leadership ability because buyers spend a large portion of their time supervising assistant buyers and dealing with manufacturers' representatives and store executives. Experienced buyers may advance by moving to a department that manages a larger volume or by becoming a merchandise manager. Others may go to work in sales for a manufacturer or wholesaler. An experienced purchasing agent or buyer may become an assistant purchasing manager in charge of a group of purchasing professionals before advancing to purchasing manager, supply manager or director of materials management. At the top levels, duties may overlap into other management functions such as production, planning and marketing. Regardless of industry, continuing education is essential for advancement. Many purchasers participate in seminars offered by professional societies and take college courses in purchasing. Although no national standard exists, professional certification is becoming increasingly important. In private industry, the recognized marks of experience and professional competence are the designations Accredited Purchasing Practitioner (APP) and Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM), conferred by the National Association of Purchasing Management, and Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP), conferred by the American Purchasing Society. In Federal, State and local government, the indications of professional competence are the designations Certified Professional Public Buyer (CPPB) and Certified Public Purchasing Officer (CPPO), conferred by the National Institute of Governmental Purchasing. As more materials purchasing is conducted on a long-term basis, both private and public purchasing professionals are specializing in the contractual aspects of purchasing. The National Contract Management Association confers the designations Simplified Acquisition Specialists (SAS), Certified Associate Contract Manager (CACM) and Certified Professional Contract Manager (CPCM). These designations primarily apply to contract managers in the Federal Government and its suppliers. Most designations are awarded only after workrelated experience and education requirements are met and written or oral exams are completed successfully.

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Job Outlook Employment of purchasers and buyers is expected to increase more slowly than the average for all occupations through the year 2006. Demand for these workers will not keep pace with the rising level of economic activity because the increasing use of computers has allowed much of the paperwork typically involved in ordering and procuring supplies to be eliminated, reducing the demand for lower-level buyers who traditionally perform these duties. Also, limited sourcing and long-term contracting have allowed companies to negotiate with fewer suppliers less frequently. Consequently, most job openings will result from the need to replace workers who transfer to other occupations or leave the labor force. In retail trade, mergers and acquisitions have forced the consolidation of buying departments, eliminating jobs. In addition, larger retail stores are removing their buying departments from geographic markets and centralizing them at their headquarters, eliminating more jobs. The increased use of credit cards by some employees to purchase supplies without using the services of the procurement or purchasing office, combined with the growing number of buys being made electronically, will restrict demand of purchasing agents within governments and many manufacturing firms. Persons who have a bachelor's degree in business should have the best chance of obtaining a buyer job in wholesale or retail trade or within government. A bachelor's degree, combined with industry experience and/or knowledge of a technical field, will be an advantage for those interested in working for a manufacturing or industrial company. A master’s degree in business or public administration is usually required by government agencies and larger companies for top-level purchasing positions. Earnings Median annual earnings of purchasers and buyers is $33,200. The middle 50 percent earn between $23,300 and $45,900.The lowest 10 percent earn less than $18,400, while the top 10 percent earn more than $63,000. Merchandise managers and purchasing managers generally earn higher salaries than buyers or agents. As a general rule, those with the most education in their field have the highest incomes. The average annual salaries for purchasing agents and contract specialists in the Federal Government in early 1997 were about $28,700 and $51,110 respectively. Purchasers and buyers receive the same benefits package as their coworkers, frequently

including vacations, sick leave, life and health insurance and pension plans. In addition to standard benefits, retail buyers often earn cash bonuses based on their performance and may receive discounts on merchandise bought from the employer. Related Occupations Workers in other occupations who need a knowledge of marketing and the ability to assess demand are retail sales workers, sales managers, marketing and advertising managers, manufacturers and wholesale sales representatives, insurance sales agents, services sales and procurement services representatives, and materials and traffic managers. Sources of Additional Information Further information about education, training, and/or certification for purchasing careers is available from: *American Purchasing Society, 30 W. Downer Pl., Aurora, IL 66050. www.american-purchasing.com *National Association of Purchasing Management, Customer Service, 2055 East Centennial Circle, P.O. Box 22160, Tempe, AZ 85285. www.napm.org *National Institute of Governmental Purchasing, Inc., 11800 Sunrise Valley Dr., Suite 1050, Reston, VA 20191-5302. www.nigp.org *National Contract Management Association, 1912 Woodford Rd., Vienna, VA 22182. www.ncmahq.org *Federal Acquisition Institute (MVI), Office of Acquisition Policy, General Services Administration, 18th & F Streets NW., Room 4019, Washington, DC 20405. www.gsa.gov/staff/v/mvi/key.htm General information on buying careers in retail establishments is available from: *National Retail Federation, 325 7th St. NW., Suite 1000, Washington, DC 20004. www.nrf.com

Retail Sales Worker Supervisors and Managers Significant Points Candidates who have experience as retail sales workers, cashiers or customer service workers should have the best opportunities. Work schedules may be irregular and often include evening and weekend work.

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

Increasingly, a post-secondary degree is needed for advancement into upper management positions. Nature of the Work In every one of the thousands of retail stores across the country, there is at least one retail sales worker supervisor or manager. Because the retail trade industry provides goods and services directly to customers, the retail supervisor or manager is responsible for ensuring that customers receive satisfactory service and quality goods. They also answer customers' inquiries and handle complaints. Retail supervisors and managers oversee the work of sales associates and cashiers, as well as customer service, stock, inventory and grocery clerks. They are responsible for interviewing, hiring and training employees, as well as preparing work schedules and assigning workers to specific duties. The responsibilities of retail sales worker supervisors and management vary depending on the size and type of establishment as well as the level of management. As the size of retail stores and the types of goods and services increase, these workers increasingly specialize in one department or one aspect of merchandising. Larger organizations tend to have many layers of management. As in other industries, supervisory-level retail managers usually report to their mid-level counterparts who, in turn, report to top-level managers. Small stores and stores that carry specialized merchandise typically have fewer levels of management. Supervisory-level retail managers, often referred to as department managers, provide day-to-day oversight of individual departments such as shoes, cosmetics, or housewares in large department stores; produce and meat in grocery stores and sales in automotive dealerships. Department managers are commonly found in large retail stores. These managers establish and implement policies, goals, objectives and procedures for their specific departments, coordinate activities with other department heads and strive for smooth operations within their departments. They supervise employees who price and ticket goods and place them on display, clean and organize shelves, displays and inventory in stockrooms and inspect merchandise to ensure that none is outdated. Department managers also review inventory and sales records, develop merchandising techniques, coordinate sales promotions and may greet and assist customers and promote sales and good public relations. In small or independent retail stores, retail sales worker supervisors and managers not only directly

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supervise sales associates, but are also responsible for the operation of the entire store. In these instances, they may be called store managers. Some are also store owners. Working Conditions Most retail sales worker supervisors and managers have offices within the stores. Although some time is spent in the office completing merchandise orders or arranging work schedules, a large portion of their workday is spent on the sales floor. Work hours of supervisors and managers vary greatly among retail establishments, with work schedules usually depending on consumers' needs. Most managers and supervisors work 40 hours or more a week. This is especially true during holidays, busy shopping hours and seasons, sales and when inventory is taken. Managers and supervisors are expected to work evenings and weekends but are usually compensated by getting a weekday off. Hours can change weekly, and managers may sometimes have to report to work on short notice, especially when employees are absent. Independent owners can often set their own schedules, but hours must usually be convenient to customers. Employment Retail sales worker supervisors and managers who work in retail trade hold about 929,000 wage and salary jobs. In addition, there are thousands of selfemployed retail sales managers, mainly store owners. Although managers are found throughout the retail trade industry, establishments that employ the most are grocery, department and clothing and accessory stores. Training, Other Qualifications and Advancement Knowledge of management principles and practices, often an essential requirement for a management position in retail trade, is usually acquired through work experience. Many supervisors and managers begin their careers on the sales floor as sales clerks, cashiers or customer service workers. In these positions, they learn merchandising, customer service and the basic policies and procedures of the store. The educational background of retail sales worker supervisors and managers varies widely. Regardless of the education received, business courses, including accounting, administration, marketing, management and sales, as well as courses in psychology, sociology and communication are helpful. Supervisors and managers must increasingly be computer literate

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since cash registers and inventory control systems are computerized. Most supervisors and managers who have postsecondary education hold associate or bachelor's degrees in liberal arts, social science, business or management. To gain experience, many postsecondary students participate in internship programs that are usually planned between individual schools and retail firms. Once on the job, the type and amount of training available for supervisors and managers varies from store to store. Many national chains have formal training programs for management trainees that include both classroom and in-store training. Training may last from one week to one year or more, as many retail organizations require their trainees to gain experience during all shopping seasons. Other retail organizations may not have formal training programs. Ordinarily, classroom training includes such topics as interviewing and customer service skills, employee and inventory management and scheduling. Management trainees may be placed in one specific department while training on the job, or they may be rotated through several departments to gain a wellrounded knowledge of the store's operation. Training programs for franchises are generally extensive, covering all functions of the company’s operation, including promotion, marketing, management, finance, purchasing, product preparation, human resource management and compensation. College graduates can usually enter management training programs directly. Retail sales worker supervisors and managers must get along with all types of people. They need initiative, self-discipline, good judgment and decisiveness. Patience and a mild temperament are necessary when dealing with demanding customers. They must also be able to motivate, organize and direct the work of subordinates and communicate clearly and persuasively with customers and other managers. Individuals who display leadership and team building skills, self-confidence, motivation and decisiveness become candidates for promotion to assistant store manager or store manager. Increasingly, a post-secondary degree is needed for advancement, because it is viewed by employers as a sign of motivation and maturity—qualities deemed important for promotion to more responsible positions. In many retail establishments, managers are promoted from within the company. In small retail establishments where the number of positions is

limited, advancement to a higher management position may come slowly. Large establishments most often have extensive career ladder programs and may offer managers the opportunity to transfer to another store in the chain or to the central office if an opening occurs. Promotions may occur more quickly in large establishments, but relocation every several years may also be necessary for advancement. Within a central office, sales supervisors and managers can become marketing, advertising or public relations managers. These managers coordinate marketing plans, monitor sales and propose advertisements and promotions. Supervisors and managers can also become purchasers or buyers who purchase goods and supplies for their organization or for resale. Some supervisors and managers who have worked in the retail industry for a long time decide to open their own stores. However, retail trade is highly competitive, and although many independent retail owners succeed, some fail to cover expenses and eventually go out of business. To prosper, retail owners usually need good business sense and strong customer service and public relations skills. Job Outlook Because most jobs for retail sales worker supervisors and managers do not require postsecondary education, competition is expected for jobs with the most attractive earnings and working conditions. Candidates who have retail experience will have the best opportunities. Employment of wage and salary retail sales worker supervisors and managers is expected to grow more slowly than the average for all occupations through the year 2006. Growth in this occupation will be restrained as retail companies place more emphasis on sales staff employment levels and increase the number of responsibilities their retail sales worker supervisors and managers have. Furthermore, some companies have begun requiring their sales staff to report directly to upper management personnel, bypassing the departmentlevel manager. However, many job openings are expected to occur as experienced supervisors and managers move into higher levels of management, transfer to other occupations or leave the labor force. Projected employment growth of retail managers will mirror, in part, the patterns of employment growth in the industries in which they are concentrated. For example, faster than average growth is expected in grocery stores as they expand their selection of

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

merchandise to accommodate customers’ desires for one-stop shopping. Unlike middle- and upper-level management positions, store-level retail supervisors and managers will generally not be affected by restructuring and consolidating that is taking place at the corporate and headquarters level of many retail chain companies. Earnings Salaries of retail managers vary substantially, depending upon the level of responsibility, length of service, and type, size and location of the firm. Supervisors or managers of sales workers in the retail trade industry who usually work full time have median annual earnings of $24,400. The middle 50 percent earn between $16,900 and $34,400. The top 10 percent earn more than $50,400, and the lowest 10 percent earn less than $12,900. According to a survey sponsored by the National Association of Convenience Stores, the average total compensation for assistant store managers in the U.S. and Canada ranges between $12,400 and $15,800 a year, depending on where the organization is located. Store managers receive between $24,400 and $31,200 on average. Compensation systems vary by type of establishment and merchandise sold. Many managers receive a commission or a combination of salary and commission. Under a commission system, retail managers receive a percentage of department or store sales. These systems offer managers the opportunity to significantly increase their earnings, but they may find that their earnings depend on their ability to sell their product and the condition of the economy. Those managers who sell large amounts of merchandise are often rewarded with bonuses and awards and receive recognition throughout the store or chain. Retail managers receive typical benefits, and, in some cases, stock options. In addition, retail managers are generally able to buy their store's merchandise at a discount. Related Occupations Retail supervisors and managers serve customers, supervise workers and direct and coordinate the operations of an establishment. Others with similar responsibilities include managers in wholesale trade, hotels, banks and hospitals. Sources of Additional Information Information on employment opportunities for retail managers may be obtained from the employment

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offices of various retail establishments or State employment service offices. General information on management careers in retail establishments is available from: *National Retail Federation, 325 7th St., Suite 1000, Washington, DC 20004. www.nrf.com *International Mass Retail Association, 1700 N. Moore St., Suite 2250, Arlington, VA 22209-1998. www.imra.org Information on management careers in grocery stores and schools offering related programs is available from: *Food Marketing Institute, 800 Connecticut Ave. N.W., Publications Dept., Washington, DC 200062701. Information about management careers and training programs in the motor vehicle dealers industry is available from: *National Automobile Dealers Association, Communications/Public Relations Dept., 8400 Westpark Dr., McLean, VA 22102-3591. Information about management careers in convenience stores is available from: *National Association of Convenience Stores, 1605 King St., Alexandria, VA 22314-2792. Information about management careers in service stations is available from: *Service Station Dealers of America, 9420 Annapolis Rd., Suite 307, Lanham, MD 20706.

Retail Sales Workers Significant Points Good employment opportunities are expected due to the need to replace the large number who leave the occupation each year. Most salespersons can expect to work some evening and weekend hours, and longer than normal hours may be scheduled during Christmas and other peak retail periods. Plentiful opportunities for part-time work exist. Nature of the Work Whether selling shoes, computer equipment or automobiles, retail sales workers assist customers in finding what they are looking for and try to interest them in the merchandise. This may be done by describing a product's features, demonstrating its use or showing various models and colors. For some sales jobs, particularly those selling expensive and complex items, special knowledge or skills are

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Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

needed. For example, workers who sell automobiles must be able to explain to customers the features of various models, the meaning of manufacturers' specifications and the types of options and financing that are available. Consumers, who spend millions of dollars a day on merchandise, often form their impressions of a store by evaluating its sales force. Therefore, retailers are increasingly stressing the importance of providing courteous and efficient service in order to remain competitive. For example, when a customer wants an item that is not on the sales floor, the sales worker may check the stockroom, place a special order or call another store to locate the item. In addition to selling, most retail sales workers, especially those who work in department and apparel stores, make out sales checks, receive cash, check and charge payments, bag or package purchases and give change and receipts. Depending on the hours they work, retail sales workers may have to open or close cash registers. This may include counting the money, separating charge slips, coupons and exchange vouchers and making deposits at the cash office. Sales workers are often held responsible for the contents of their registers, and repeated shortages are cause for dismissal in many organizations. Sales workers may also handle returns and exchanges of merchandise, perform gift-wrapping services, and keep their work areas neat. In addition, they may help stock shelves or racks, arrange for mailing or delivery of purchases, mark price tags, take inventory, and prepare displays. Frequently, sales workers must be aware of not only the promotions their store is sponsoring, but also those that are being sponsored by competitors. Also, salespersons must often recognize possible security risks and know how to handle such situations. Although most sales workers have many duties and responsibilities in jobs selling standardized articles such hardware, linens and housewares, they often do little more than take payments and wrap purchases. Working Conditions Most sales workers in retail trade work in clean, comfortable, well-lit stores. However, they often stand for long periods and may need supervisory approval to leave the sales floor. The Monday through Friday, 9 to 5 work week is the exception, rather than the rule, in retail trade. Most salespersons can expect to work some evening and weekend hours, and longer than normal hours may be scheduled during Christmas and other peak

retail periods. In addition, most retailers restrict the use of vacation time from Thanksgiving until early January. This job can be rewarding for those who enjoy working with people. However, patience is required when the work is repetitious and the customers are demanding. Employment Retail sales workers hold about 4,522,000 jobs. They work in stores ranging from small specialty shops employing several workers to giant department stores with hundreds of salespersons. In addition, some are self-employed representatives of direct sales companies and mail-order houses. The largest employers of retail sales workers, however, are department stores, clothing and accessories stores, furniture and home furnishing stores and motor vehicle dealers. This occupation offers many opportunities for part-time work and is especially appealing to students, retirees and others looking to supplement their income. However, most of those selling "big ticket" items such as cars, furniture and electronic equipment work full-time and have substantial experience. Because retail stores are found in every city and town, employment is distributed geographically in much the same way as the population. Training, Other Qualifications and Advancement There usually are no formal education requirements for this type of work, although a high school diploma or equivalent is increasingly preferred. Employers look for persons who enjoy working with people and have the tact and patience to deal with difficult customers. Among other desirable characteristics are an interest in sales work, a neat appearance and the ability to communicate clearly and effectively. The ability to speak more than one language may be helpful for employment in stores in communities where people from various cultures tend to live and shop. Before hiring a sales worker, some employers may conduct a background check, especially for a job selling high-priced items. In most small stores, an experienced employee or the proprietor instructs newly hired sales personnel in making out sales checks and operating cash registers. In large stores, training programs are more formal and usually conducted over several days. Topics usually discussed are customer service, security, the store's policies and procedures and how to work a cash register. Depending on the type of product they

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

are selling, they may be given additional specialized training by manufacturers' representatives. For example, those working in cosmetics receive instruction on the types of products available and for whom the cosmetics would be most beneficial. Likewise, sales workers employed by motor vehicle dealers may be required to participate in training programs designed to provide information on the technical details of standard and optional equipment available on new models. Because providing the best service to customers is a high priority for many employers, employees are often given periodic training to update and refine their skills. As salespersons gain experience and seniority, they usually move to positions of greater responsibility and may be given their choice of departments. This often means moving to areas with potentially higher earnings and commissions. The highest earnings potential is usually found in selling big-ticket items. This type of position often requires the most knowledge of the product and the greatest talent for persuasion. Traditionally, capable sales workers without college degrees could advance to management positions, but today, large retail businesses generally prefer to hire college graduates as management trainees, making a college education increasingly important. Despite this trend, capable employees without college degrees should still be able to advance to administrative or supervisory positions in large establishments. Opportunities for advancement vary in small stores. In some establishments, advancement is limited because one person, often the owner, does most of the managerial work. In others, however, some sales workers are promoted to assistant managers. Retail selling experience may be an asset when applying for sales positions with larger retailers or in other industries such as financial services, wholesale trade or manufacturing. Job Outlook As in the past, employment opportunities for retail sales workers are expected to continue to be good because of the many job openings created each year due to the need to replace the large number of workers who transfer to other occupations or leave the labor force. Additional openings will be created by growth in employment of retail sales workers, which is expected to increase about as fast as the average for all occupations through the year 2006 due to anticipated growth in retail sales created by a

79

growing population. There will continue to be many opportunities for part-time workers, and demand will be strong for temporary workers during peak selling periods such as the Christmas season. During economic downturns, sales volumes and the resulting demand for sales workers generally decline. Purchases of costly items such as cars, appliances and furniture tend to be postponed during difficult economic times. In areas of high unemployment, sales of many types of goods decline. However, because turnover of sales workers is usually very high, employers can often control employment simply by not replacing all those who leave. Earnings The starting wage for many retail sales positions is the Federal minimum wage, which is $5.15 an hour. In some areas where employers are having difficulty attracting and retaining workers, wages are higher than the established minimum. Compensation systems vary by type of establishment and merchandise sold. Sales workers receive either hourly wages, commissions or a combination of wages and commissions. Under a commission system, salespersons receive a percentage of the sales that they make. This system offers sales workers the opportunity to significantly increase their earnings, but they may find their earnings depend on their ability to sell their product and the ups and downs of the economy. Employers may use incentive programs such as awards, banquets and profit-sharing plans to promote teamwork among the sales staff. Benefits may be limited in smaller stores, but in large establishments benefits are usually comparable to those offered by other employers. In addition, nearly all sales workers are able to buy their store's merchandise at a discount, with the savings depending upon the type of merchandise. Related Occupations Sales workers use sales techniques coupled with their knowledge of merchandise to assist customers and encourage purchases. These skills are used by people in a number of other occupations, including manufacturers and wholesale trade sales representatives, service sales representatives, securities and financial services sales representatives, counter and rental clerks, real estate sales agents, purchasers and buyers, insurance agents, brokers and cashiers.

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Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

Sources of Additional Information Information on careers in retail sales may be obtained from the personnel offices of local stores or from State merchants' associations. General information about retailing is available from: *National Retail Federation, 325 7th St. N.W., Suite 1000, Washington, DC 20004. www.nrf.com *International Mass Retail Association, 1700 N. Moore St., Suite 2250, Arlington, VA 22209-1998. Information about retail sales employment opportunities is available from: *United Food and Commercial Workers International Union, Education Office, 1775 K St. NW., Washington, DC 20006-1502. Information about training for a career in automobile sales is available from: *National Automobile Dealers Association, Communications/Public Relations Dept., 8400 Westpark Dr., McLean, VA 22102-3591.

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

81

Chapter 6 THE RETAIL 500 WHO THEY ARE AND HOW THEY WERE CHOSEN

Note: financial data given for each of the Retail 500 firms is for the year ended December 31, 1998, or for the latest date available to the editors. Telephone numbers, addresses, contact names, Internet addresses and other vital facts were collected in early 1999. The companies chosen to be listed in PLUNKETT’S RETAIL INDUSTRY ALMANAC are not the same as the “Fortune 500” or any other list of corporations. The Retail 500 were chosen specifically for their prominence in retail fields and in related support industries. A complete list of these industries is on the next page. Complete information about each firm can be found in the “Individual Data Listings” at the end of this chapter. The Retail 500 (the actual count is 452 companies) contains the largest, most successful companies in the retail industry. To be included in our list, the firms had to meet the following criteria: 1) U.S. based, private-sector corporations, except for a small number of foreign-based firms that have stock listed on American stock exchanged. 2) Stocks or bonds issued by the firm have been sold to the public recently (except for a small number of firms that are privately-held that we added in order to round-out certain niche sets of companies).

3) Prominence, or a significant presence, in retail and supporting fields. (See the following Industry Codes section for a complete list of types of businesses that are covered). 4) The companies in The Retail 500 do not have to be exclusively in the retail field. 5) Financial data and vital statistics must have been available to the editors of this book, either directly from the company being written about, or from outside sources deemed reliable and accurate by the editors. The companies were chosen in this manner for the following reasons: ...452 COMPANIES so there is a broad base among which to make comparisons. ...COMPANIES WITH STOCKS THAT ARE OR HAVE BEEN PUBLICLY TRADED because publicly-held firms can be compared fairly since they are required by law to meet federal government standards in their methods of reporting, and accounting for, their vital statistics.

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Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

INDEXES TO THE RETAIL 500, AS FOUND IN THIS CHAPTER AND IN THE BACK OF THIS BOOK: Industry Codes

p. 82

Companies by Industry, with Ranks in Industry Groups p. 83 Alphabetical index

p. 99

Geographic Indexes Index of Headquarters Location, by State p. 103 Index by Regions of the Nation where the Retail 500 Have Locations p. 108 Index by Firms with International Locations p. 122 Index of Firms noted as “Hot Spots for Advancement for Women & Minorities” p. 577 Index by Subsidiaries, Brand Names and Selected Affiliations p. 579

INDUSTRY LIST, WITH CODES The Retail 500 contains companies from the following industries. (The Code that follows each industry will be useful when looking at certain of the indexes both in this chapter and in the back of the book.) 4481 APPAREL STORES 442299 ART/FRAMING 4411 AUTO DEALERS 4413 AUTO PARTS 51113 BOOK PUBLISHING 4512 BOOK STORES 44413 BUILDING MATERIALS/HARDWARE STORES 5132 CABLE TV NETWORKS 44813 CHILDREN'S APPAREL 3341B COMPUTER ACCESSORIES MANUFACTURER (RETAIL USE) 44312 COMPUTER AND SOFTWARE STORES 3341A COMPUTER HARDWARE MANUFACTURER (RETAIL USE) 5112 COMPUTER SOFTWARE DESIGN/MANUFACTURER 44312B COMPUTERS-VAR EQUIPMENT RESELLER

54151 CONSULTING SERVICES-COMPUTER 522921 CONSUMER FINANCE 44512 CONVENIENCE STORES 44612 COSMETICS/BEAUTY SUPPLIES 4921 COURIER SERVICE/OVERNIGHT DELIVERY 45112 CRAFTS 52232A CREDIT CARD PROCESSING 4521 DEPARTMENT STORES 45411 DIRECT SELLING-CATALOGS/MAIL ORDER/PARTY SALES 45291 DISCOUNT STORES 44611 DRUG STORES 45112B ELECTRONIC GAMES 5223B ELECTRONIC TRANSFERS 443 ELECTRONICS, AUDIO AND APPLIANCE 44613 EYEGLASSES 44221 FLOOR COVERINGS STORES 421 FURNITURE STORES 4442 GARDEN SUPPLIES/PLANTS 44719 GASOLINE/PROPANE 45322 GIFTS/SUNDRIES 4451 GROCERY STORES/SUPERMARKETS 81211 HAIR, NAIL AND SKIN SALONS 6214 HOSPITALS/CLINICS 51339 INTERNET SERVICE HOSTS AND PROVIDERS 44831 JEWELRY 44229 LINENS/HOUSEWARES 4453 LIQUOR STORES 4400 MISCELLANEOUS RETAILERS 5121 MOVIES & PRODUCTION 45122A MUSIC STORES 4532 OFFICE SUPPLIES 4541 ON-LINE SELLING 3255 PAINT STORES 52252A PAYMENT PROCESSING SERVICE 45391 PETS/PET SUPPLIES 531 REAL ESTATE SERVICES 7221 RESTAURANTS 4482 SHOES/ACCESSORIES 45111 SPORTING GOODS 512131 THEATERS 7131 THEME PARKS/RIDES/GAME CENTERS 453991 TOBACCO STORES 45112C TOYS 4541A TV SHOPPING 45122B VIDEO RENTAL STORES 446191 VITAMINS/NUTRITION

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83

84

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

INDEX OF RANKINGS WITHIN INDUSTRY GROUPS, RANKED FOR SALES AND PROFITS

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

COMPANY SHERWIN WILLIAMS COMPANY (THE)

85

1998 1998 Industry Sales Sales Profits Profits ($thousands) Rank ($thousands) Rank Code PAINT STORES 3255

$272,684

1

COMPUTER HARDWARE MANUFACTURER (RETAIL SALES OR RETAIL USE) COMPAQ COMPUTER CORP 3341A $31,169,000 2 -$2,743,000 DELL COMPUTER CORP 3341A $12,327,000 3 $944,000 GATEWAY INC 3341A $7,467,900 4 $346,400 IBM 3341A $81,667,000 1 $6,328,000 NCR CORPORATION 3341A $6,505,000 5 $122,000

5 2 3 1 4

COMPUTER ACCESSORIES MANUFACTURER (RETAIL USE) METROLOGIC INSTRUMENTS INC 3341B $65,600 MICROTOUCH SYSTEMS INC 3341B $144,400 PSC INC 3341B $217,223 SYMBOL TECHNOLOGIES INC 3341B $977,900 TRANS-LUX CORPORATION 3341B $63,800 BOMBAY COMPANY INC (THE) COST PLUS INC GLOBE BUSINESS RESOURCES INC HAVERTY FURNITURE COS INC HEILIG MEYERS COMPANY JENNIFER CONVERTIBLES INC PIER 1 IMPORTS INC ROBERDS INC ROOM PLUS INC WELCOME HOME INC

FURNITURE STORES 421 421 421 421 421 421 421 421 421 421

MISCELLANEOUS RETAILERS AARON RENTS INC 4400 BATTERIES BATTERIES INC 4400 BLUE RHINO CORPORATION 4400 CASH AMERICA INTERNATIONAL INC 4400 CENTRAL TRACTOR FARM & COUNTRY INC 4400 D H MARKETING & CONSULT 4400 EZCORP INC 4400 FIRST CASH INC 4400 GLACIER WATER SERVICES INC 4400 HOLIDAY RV SUPERSTORES 4400 MARINEMAX INC 4400 PAWNMART INC 4400 REAL GOODS TRADING CORPORATION 4400 ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY INC 4400 TRACTOR SUPPLY COMPANY 4400 TRAVIS BOAT & MOTORS INC 4400 U S PAWN INC 4400

$4,934,430

1

4 3 2 1 5

$4,500 $9,400 $10,516 $93,000 $1,700

4 3 2 1 5

$332,600 $260,500 $103,900 $540,300 $2,160,200 $111,500 $1,075,405 $318,710 $19,223 $54,300

4 6 8 3 1 7 2 5 10 9

$4,500 $10,000 $4,100 $16,800 -$55,100 $100 $78,047 -$16,123 -$2,775 $14,200

5 4 6 2 10 7 1 9 8 3

$370,800 $51,500 $27,400 $342,900 $587,200 $1,734 $197,394 $59,004 $56,300 $71,500 $291,200 $10,178 $17,034 $23,764 $600,700 $131,700 $11,100

4 13 14 5 2 19 7 10 11 9 6 18 16 15 1 8 17

$21,500 -$2,100 -$2,400 $12,600 $10,000 -$3,345 $9,213 $3,798 -$3,300 $1,700 -$600 -$5,436 -$322 $240 $14,800 $5,600 -$100

1 15 16 3 4 18 5 7 17 9 14 19 13 11 2 6 12

86

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

COMPANY WEST MARINE INC WORLD OF SCIENCE

1998 1998 Industry Sales Sales Profits Profits ($thousands) Rank ($thousands) Rank Code 4400 $448,800 3 $1,100 10 4400 $54,300 12 $1,800 8

AUTONATION INC CARMAX GROUP COPART INC CROSS CONTINENT AUTO CROWN GROUP INC GROUP 1 AUTOMOTIVE INC LITHIA MOTORS INC SMART CHOICE AUTOMOTIVE GROUP SONIC AUTOMOTIVE INC UGLY DUCKLING CORPORATION UNITED AUTO GROUP INC

AUTO DEALERS 4411 4411 4411 4411 4411 4411 4411 4411 4411 4411 4411

$1,611,820 $874,200 $114,200

3 5 8

$49,950 -$34,200 $15,200

1 10 4

$21,215 $1,630,100 $714,700 $95,385 $1,603,700 $287,600 $3,343,100

10 2 6 9 4 7 1

$348 $20,700 $10,800 -$6,871 $18,600 $5,700 -$700

7 2 5 9 3 6 8

AUTOZONE INC CSK AUTO INC DISCOUNT AUTO PARTS INC MID STATES PLC O'REILLY AUTOMOTIVE INC PEP BOYS-MANNY MOE & JACK (THE) RUSH ENTERPRISES INC TRAK AUTO CORPORATION

AUTO PARTS 4413 4413 4413 4413 4413 4413 4413 4413

$3,242,900 $1,004,385 $447,491 $71,598 $616,300 $2,056,520 $612,785 $319,400

1 3 6 8 4 2 5 7

$227,900 $73,961 $27,180 -$5,053 $30,800 $49,611 $10,797 -$17,700

1 2 5 7 4 3 6 8

$365,100

1

$15,400

1

LINENS/HOUSEWARES 44229 44229 44229 44229 44229 44229 44229 44229 44229

$1,066,600 $2,500 $445,300 $1,066,200 $52,949 $141,714 $221,800 $37,559 $933,300

1 9 4 2 7 6 5 8 3

$73,100 -$1,500 -$3,800 $38,100 -$191 $7,670 -$3,800 -$7,437 $41,300

1 6 7 3 5 4 8 9 2

ART/FRAMING 442299 442299

$185,100 $82,700

1 2

$36,616 $11,000

1 2

ELECTRONICS, AUDIO AND APPLIANCE 443 $8,358,683 443 $25,900 443 $1,995,900 443 $8,870,800 443 $928,500

2 14 5 1 6

$94,500 $800 $14,400 $104,300 -$8,900

3 8 5 1 14

MAXIM GROUP INC (THE) BED BATH & BEYOND INC INTERNATIONAL CUTLERY LTD LECHTERS INC LINENS N THINGS INC PAPER WAREHOUSE PARTY CITY CORPORATION STROUDS INC THREE D DEPARTMENTS INC WILLIAMS SONOMA INC GETTY IMAGES INC MEDIA ARTS GROUP INC BEST BUY CO INC BESTWAY INC CELLSTAR CORPORATION CIRCUIT CITY GROUP GOOD GUYS INC (THE)

FLOOR COVERINGS STORES 44221

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

COMPANY HARVEY ELECTRONICS INC INTERTAN INC LET'S TALK CELL & WIRE NACCO INDUSTRIES INC REX STORES CORPORATION SOUND ADVICE INC TANDY CORP TOPS APPLIANCE CITY INC TWEETER HOME ENTERTAINMENT ULTIMATE ELECTRONICS INC ATEC GROUP INC BABBAGE'S ETC CDW COMPUTER CENTERS INC COMP USA INC CREATIVE COMPUTERS INC MICROAGE INC

87 1998 1998 Industry Sales Sales Profits Profits Code ($thousands) Rank ($thousands) Rank 443 $17,300 15 -$900 11 443 $541,900 7 -$12,800 15 443 $122,487 12 -$267 10 443 $2,536,200 4 $102,300 2 443 $411,005 8 $7,412 6 443 $96,800 13 -$1,000 12 443 $4,787,900 3 $61,300 4 443 $290,400 10 -$1,100 13 443 $232,300 11 $5,300 7 443 $306,300 9 $100 9

COMPUTER AND SOFTWARE STORES 44312 $187,200 44312 44312 $1,733,500 44312 $5,286,000 44312 $6,400

3

$2,700

3

2 1 4

$65,800 $31,500 -$600

1 2 4

COMPUTERS-VAR EQUIPMENT RESELLER 44312B $5,520,000

1

-$8,300

1

8 6

$15,100 $29,916

4 3

3 -$92,900 1 $1,160,000 5 $11,200 2 $375,500 12 -$1,300

13 1 5 2 10

4 13 9 11 7 10

-$22,367 $1,748 -$12,307 $4,400 -$500 $6,800

12 8 11 7 9 6

$121,600 $27,100 $51,200 $252,900

2 4 3 1

$2,400 -$300 $100 $2,800

2 4 3 1

GROCERY STORES/SUPERMARKETS 4451 $30,800 4451 $14,689,500 4451 $19,138,900

37 6 3

$638,200 $516,800 $280,600

2 3 6

BUILDING MATERIALS/HARDWARE STORES BUILDING MATERIALS HOLDING CORP 44413 $877,300 EAGLE HARDWARE & GARDEN INC 44413 $971,488 GROSSMAN'S INC 44413 HECHINGER CO 44413 $3,449,200 HOME DEPOT INC 44413 $24,156,000 HOMEBASE INC 44413 $1,477,400 LOWE'S COS INC 44413 $10,136,890 NATIONAL HOME CENTERS INC 44413 $150,800 ORCHARD SUPPLY HARDWARE 44413 PAYLESS CASHWAYS INC 44413 $1,909,860 RESTORATION HARDWARE 44413 $97,872 RIVERSIDE GROUP INC 44413 $672,764 TREND LINES INC 44413 $231,100 WICKES INC 44413 $910,300 WOLOHAN LUMBER CO 44413 $449,900 BARBEQUES GALORE LIMITED CALLOWAY'S NURSERY INC GRIFFIN LAND & NURSERIES LESLIE'S POOLMART SUNBELT NURSERY GROUP INC AHOLD ALBERTSONS INC AMERICAN STORES COMPANY

GARDEN SUPPLIES/PLANTS 4442 4442 4442 4442 4442

88

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

COMPANY ARDEN GROUP INC BRUNO'S INC CARR-GOTTSTEIN FOODS CO. EAGLE FOOD CENTERS INC FLEMING COMPANIES INC FOOD LION INC FOODARAMA SUPERMARKETS, INC. GRAND UNION COMPANY (THE) GREAT ATLANTIC & PACIFIC TEA COMPANY INC (THE) GRISTEDE'S SLOAN'S INC HANNAFORD BROS CO HARRY'S FARMERS MARKET INC HOMELAND HOLDING CORP INGLES MARKETS INC KROGER CO (THE) MARSH SUPERMARKETS INC NASH FINCH COMPANY PENN TRAFFIC COMPANY (THE) PUBLIX SUPER MARKETS INC PUEBLO XTRA INTERNATIONAL, INC. RICHFOOD HOLDINGS INC RUDDICK CORPORATION SAFEWAY INC SANTA ISABEL SCHULTZ SAV O STORES INC SEAWAY FOOD TOWN INC SUPERMERCADOS UNIMARC SUPER-SOL LTD SUPERVALU INC VILLAGE SUPER MARKET INC WEIS MARKETS INC WESTERN BEEF INC WHOLE FOODS MARKET INC WILD OATS MARKETS INC WINN DIXIE STORES INC 7-ELEVEN INC CASEY'S GENERAL STORES INC CUMBERLAND FARMS INC DAIRY MART CONVENIENCE STORES INC EVANS SYSTEMS INC FFP PARTNERS LP ITO YOKADO CO LTD PANTRY INC (THE)

Industry Code 4451 4451 4451 4451 4451 4451 4451 4451 4451 4451 4451 4451 4451 4451 4451 4451 4451 4451 4451 4451 4451 4451 4451 4451 4451 4451 4451 4451 4451 4451 4451 4451 4451 4451 4451

CONVENIENCE STORES 44512 44512 44512 44512 44512 44512 44512 44512

1998 Sales Profits Profits ($thousands) Rank ($thousands) Rank $296,500 34 $10,100 19 $2,560,271 15 -$155,903 35 $601,900 28 $2,100 28 $967,090 23 $5,098 24 $15,069,335 5 -$510,595 37 $10,194,385 10 $172,250 9 $697,358 26 $1,780 29 $2,266,800 17 -$304,000 36 $10,262,200 9 $63,100 12 $157,500 35 -$300 30 $3,323,600 12 $94,600 10 $137,000 36 -$5,900 32 $529,600 29 -$10,600 33 $1,647,200 19 $4,200 25 $28,203,300 1 $410,800 4 $1,505,100 20 $6,100 23 $4,160,000 11 -$61,700 34 $3,010,000 14 $53,000 14 $12,190,436 8 $378,274 5 $938,500 24 -$5,600 31 $3,203,731 13 $54,706 13 $2,487,370 16 $46,772 15 $24,484,200 2 $806,700 1 1998 Sales

$473,006 $625,178 $468,700 $1,231,900 $17,201,400 $703,700 $1,867,500 $299,000 $1,389,800 $398,900 $13,617,500

30 27 31 22 4 25 18 33 21 32 7

$7,637 $6,984 $9,100 $30,500 $230,800 $4,000 $83,700 $3,400 $45,400 $11,600 $198,600

21 22 20 17 7 26 11 27 16 18 8

$7,349,811 $1,186,900 $1,387,200 $501,359 $104,114 $270,000 $24,818,300 $984,900

3 5 4 7 10 8 1 6

$74,048 $33,500

3 4

-$1,468 -$4,164 -$200 $558,800 -$3,300

7 9 6 1 8

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

89

TOSCO CORP

44512

$12,021,500 2 $106,200 2 1998 1998 Industry Sales Sales Profits Profits Code ($thousands) Rank ($thousands) Rank 44512 $263,500 9 $300 5

COMPANY UNI MARTS INC

LIQUOR STORES 4453

FLANIGAN'S ENTERPRISES INC

DRUG STORES 44611 44611 44611 44611 44611 44611 44611 44611 44611 44611

CVS CORPORATION DRUG EMPORIUM INC DUANE READE INC GENOVESE DRUG STORES INC HORIZON PHARMACIES INC LONGS DRUG STORES CORPORATION PHARMHOUSE CORP PHAR-MOR, INC. RITE AID CORPORATION WALGREEN CO ALBERTO-CULVER COMPANY BIOZHEM COSMECEUTICALS COSMETIC CENTER INC THE GARDEN BOTANIKA INC PERFUMANIA INC

1

$1,388

1

$15,273,600 $836,405 $587,400 $769,460 $74,700 $2,952,900 $200,751 $1,100,851 $11,375,105 $15,307,000

2 6 8 7 10 4 9 5 3 1

$396,400 $1,691 -$4,800 -$676 -$2,200 $57,700 -$3,691 -$8,830 $512,377 $511,000

3 5 9 6 7 4 8 10 1 2

1 4

$83,100 -$534

1 2

3 2

-$15,600 -$11,433

4 3

$59,900 $1,000,200 $49,212 $23,200 $573,840 $122,800 $245,300

5 1 6 7 2 4 3

-$7,900 -$6,300 $1,809 -$17,800 -$69,600 $7,500 $3,400

5 4 3 6 7 1 2

$1,193,500 $27,139 $15,900 $149,200 $296,100

1 4 5 3 2

$103,400 $435 -$900 $1,400 $23,200

1 4 5 3 2

$768,100 $667,353 $892,800 $186,000 $134,000 $548,141 $211,509

2 3 1 6 7 4 5

$9,400 $4,943 $1,200 $8,800 -$1,600 -$22,899 $2,338

1 3 5 2 6 7 4

COSMETICS/BEAUTY SUPPLIES 44612 $1,834,700 44612 $1,161 44612 44612 $114,600 44612 $163,594

1 800 CONTACTS COLE NATIONAL CORPORATION NEW WEST EYEWORKS INC STERLING VISION INC SUNGLASS HUT INTERNATIONAL INC U S VISION INC VISTA EYECARE INC GENERAL NUTRITION COMPANIES INC GLOBENET INTERNATIONAL HEALTHRITE INC NATURAL WONDERS INC NATURE'S SUNSHINE PRODUCTS INC CORNERSTONE PROPANE PART FERRELLGAS PARTNERS L P GETTY PETROLEUM MARKETING HERITAGE PROPANE PARTNERS NATIONAL PROPANE PARTNERS PETROLEUM HEAT & POWER CO TRAVEL PORTS OF AMERICA

$21,767

EYEGLASSES 44613 44613 44613 44613 44613 44613 44613 VITAMINS/NUTRITION 446191 446191 446191 446191 446191 GASOLINE/PROPANE 44719 44719 44719 44719 44719 44719 44719 APPAREL STORES

90

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 ABERCROMBIE & FITCH CO

4481

$521,617 18 $48,300 9 1998 1998 Industry Sales Sales Profits Profits COMPANY Code ($thousands) Rank ($thousands) Rank AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS INC 4481 $405,700 22 $19,505 16 ANNTAYLOR STORES CORP 4481 $781,000 13 $11,800 22 BEBE STORES INC 4481 $146,800 39 $17,400 19 BIG DOG HOLDINGS INC 4481 $100,700 45 $4,000 33 BRAUN'S FASHIONS CORPORATION 4481 $99,500 46 $4,400 32 BRYLANE INC 4481 $1,314,839 7 $47,035 10 BUCKLE INC (THE) 4481 $267,900 29 $23,300 14 BURLINGTON COAT FACTORY WAREHOUSE CORPORATION 4481 $1,795,600 6 $63,600 8 CACHE INC 4481 $146,800 40 $3,900 34 CATHERINES STORES CORPORATION 4481 $277,200 27 CATO CORP 4481 $496,900 19 $17,400 18 CHARMING SHOPPES INC 4481 $1,016,500 10 $19,300 17 CHICO'S FAS INC 4481 $75,300 48 $2,800 36 COLES MYER LTD 4481 $12,466,800 1 $238,300 5 DEB SHOPS INC 4481 $205,066 33 $6,637 26 DELIA'S INC 4481 $113,049 43 $4,426 31 DESIGNS INC 4481 $265,726 30 -$29,063 48 DRESS BARN INC (THE) 4481 $598,175 15 $40,227 11 EDISON BROTHERS STORES INC 4481 $949,900 12 -$62,300 49 EVANS INC 4481 $92,255 47 -$835 39 FACTORY 2 U STORES INC 4481 $300,592 25 -$129 38 FILENE'S BASEMENT CORP 4481 $554,321 17 -$5,760 42 GADZOOKS INC 4481 $171,600 37 $8,300 25 GANTOS INC 4481 $162,000 38 -$9,800 44 GAP INC 4481 $6,508 51 $533,900 2 GOODY'S FAMILY CLOTHING INC 4481 $971,900 11 $33,300 12 HAROLD'S STORES INC 4481 $119,900 42 HOT TOPIC INC 4481 $70,500 49 $4,500 30 INTIMATE BRANDS INC 4481 $3,617,856 4 $288,900 4 J BAKER INC 4481 $592,151 16 $3,813 35 JOS A BANK CLOTHIERS INC 4481 $172,200 36 $700 37 K&G MEN'S CENTER INC 4481 $112,800 44 $6,400 27 LAMONTS APPAREL INC 4481 $201,600 34 -$16,900 47 LANDS END INC 4481 $1,263,600 8 $64,200 7 LIMITED INC (THE) 4481 $9,188,800 2 $2,124,700 1 MEN'S WEARHOUSE INC (THE) 4481 $631,110 14 $28,900 13 MOTHERS WORK INC 4481 $299,000 26 -$16,700 46 ONE PRICE CLOTHING STORES INC 4481 $302,285 24 -$11,320 45 PACIFIC SUNWEAR OF CALIFORNIA INC 4481 $277,130 28 $16,358 20 PAUL HARRIS STORES INC 4481 $209,236 32 $9,728 24 RIGHT START INC (THE) 4481 $38,521 50 -$9,241 43 ROSS STORES INC 4481 $1,988,692 5 $117,474 6 S & K FAMOUS BRANDS INC 4481 $144,983 41 $4,981 29 TALBOTS INC (THE) 4481 $1,053,800 9 $5,800 28

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

91

TJX COMPANIES INC

4481

$7,389,100 3 $304,800 3 1998 1998 Industry Sales Sales Profits Profits Code ($thousands) Rank ($thousands) Rank 4481 $214,100 31 -$4,300 40 4481 $361,800 23 -$4,800 41 4481 $173,100 35 $13,900 21 4481 $412,500 21 $21,300 15 4481 $418,100 20 $10,900 23

COMPANY TODAY'S MAN INC UNITED RETAIL GROUP INC URBAN OUTFITTERS INC WET SEAL INC (THE) WILSONS THE LEATHER EXPERTS INC CHILDREN'S PLACE (THE) GYMBOREE CORP (THE) KIDS STUFF INC

CHILDREN'S APPAREL 44813 44813 44813

$192,600 $373,400 $14,200

2 1 3

$8,700 $35,200

2 1

FINISH LINE INC (THE) FLORSHEIM GROUP INC FOOTSTAR INC GENESCO INC JUST FOR FEET INC PAYLESS SHOESOURCE ,INC. SHOE CARNIVAL INC SHOE PAVILION INC TRACK N TRAIL VENATOR GROUP INC

SHOES/ACCESSORIES 4482 4482 4482 4482 4482 4482 4482 4482 4482 4482

$138,911 $253,056 $1,794,900 $536,100 $478,600 $2,566,900 $246,520 $55,907 $99,900 $6,624,000

8 6 3 4 5 2 7 10 9 1

$26,734 -$1,435 $33,500 $5,600 $21,400 $128,900 $7,391 $3,393 $400 -$10,000

3 9 2 6 4 1 5 7 8 10

44831 44831 44831 44831 44831 44831 44831 44831 44831 44831 44831 44831

$500,200 $9,707 $769,862 $287,300 $100,400 $222,128 $12,579 $102,845 $125,189 $1,017,600 $188,900 $1,313,700

4 12 3 5 10 6 11 9 8 2 7 1

$58,200 $318 $15,195 $11,200 -$3,800 $10,969 -$587 $2,708 -$22,168 $72,800 $10,200 $68,900

3 9 4 5 11 6 10 8 12 1 7 2

SPORTING GOODS 45111 45111 45111 45111 45111 45111 45111 45111

$367,500 $3,284 $228,400 $113,600 $342,609 $143,000 $97,300 $1,464,600

2 8 4 6 3 5 7 1

$22,800 -$679 $6,700 $5,900 $5,073 $3,200 $5,000 $22,200

1 8 3 4 5 7 6 2

JEWELRY CLAIRE'S STORES INC ELEGANT ILLUSIONS INC FINLAY ENTERPRISES INC FRIEDMAN'S INC LITTLE SWITZERLAND INC PIERCING PAGODA INC PREMIER CONCEPTS INC REEDS JEWELERS INC SAMUELS JEWELERS INC TIFFANY & CO WHITEHALL JEWELERS INC ZALE CORPORATION AUTHENTIC FITNESS CORP COLLEGIATE PACIFIC INC GART SPORTS COMPANY HIBBETT SPORTING GOODS INC OSHMAN'S SPORTING GOODS INC SPORT CHALET INC SPORT SUPPLY GROUP INC SPORTS AUTHORITY INC (THE)

CRAFTS

92

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 A C MOORE ARTS & CRAFTS

45112

$187,000 5 $3,900 5 1998 1998 Industry Sales Sales Profits Profits Code ($thousands) Rank ($thousands) Rank 45112 $11,100 8 -$10,700 9 45112 $2,800 9 $100 7 45112 $304,700 4 $11,400 4 45112 $33,900 7 -$3,800 8 45112 $381,900 3 $15,300 3 45112 $975,000 2 $30,900 1 45112 $1,456,500 1 $30,100 2 45112 $90,566 6 $942 6

COMPANY BIG ENTERTAINMENT INC GALLERY OF HISTORY INC GARDEN RIDGE CORPORATION GREAT TRAIN STORE COMPANY (THE) HANCOCK FABRICS INC JO ANN STORES INC MICHAELS STORES INC RAG SHOPS INC

ELECTRONIC GAME STORES ELECTRONICS BOUTIQUE HOLDINGS CORP. 45112B FUNCO INC 45112B

$453,972 $163,316

1 2

$22,064 $8,270

1 2

$81,700 $22,569 $11,038,000

2 3 1

-$1,900 -$2,054 $490,000

2 3 1

TOYS NOODLE KIDOODLE INC PLAY CO TOYS & ENTERTAINMENT CORP TOYS R US INC

45112C 45112C 45112C

BARNES & NOBLE INC BOOKS A MILLION INC BORDERS GROUP INC CROWN BOOKS CORP

BOOK STORES 4512 4512 4512 4512

$2,796,900 $324,800 $2,266,000 $297,795

1 3 2 4

$53,200 $7,000 $80,200 -$48,650

2 3 1 4

CD WAREHOUSE INC GUITAR CENTER INC HASTINGS ENTERTAINMENT MUSICLAND STORES CORP NATIONAL RECORD MART INC TRANS WORLD ENTERTAINMENT CORP

MUSIC STORES 45122A 45122A 45122A 45122A 45122A 45122A

$15,300 $391,700 $357,700 $1,846,900 $112,488 $571,300

6 3 4 1 5 2

$800 $27,400 $8,600 $38,000 $893 $20,600

6 2 4 1 5 3

MOVIE GALLERY INC VIDEO UPDATE INC

VIDEO RENTAL STORES 45122B 45122B

$267,600 $156,200

1 2

-$23,100 -$14,500

2 1

AMES DEPARTMENT STORES INC BON-TON STORES INC (THE) DAYTON HUDSON CORPORATION DILLARD'S INC ELDER BEERMAN STORES (THE) FEDERATED DEPARTMENT STORES INC FRED MEYER INC GOTTSCHALKS INC HILLS STORES COMPANY J C PENNEY COMPANY INC JACOBSON STORES INC JG INDUSTRIES INC

DEPARTMENT STORES 4521 4521 4521 4521 4521 4521 4521 4521 4521 4521 4521 4521

$2,233,100 $656,400 $27,757 $6,816,909 $607,946 $15,668,000 $7,359,202 $448,200 $1,768,274 $29,618,000 $447,500 $53,500

13 17 23 8 18 5 7 19 14 4 20 22

$34,500 $9,300 $802 $258,325 -$28,952 $536,000 $143,311 $3,700 -$9,015 $566,000 $1,200 -$2,600

13 16 19 7 23 5 10 17 22 4 18 20

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

93

KMART CORPORATION

4521

COMPANY KOHL'S CORP MAY DEPARTMENT STORES COMPANY (THE) NEIMAN MARCUS GROUP INC (THE) NORDSTROM INC PROFFITTS, INC. SAKS HOLDINGS INC SEARS ROEBUCK & CO STEIN MART INC VALUE CITY DEPARTMENT STORES INC WAL MART STORES INC ZIONS COOPERATIVE MERCANTILE INSTITUTION 99 CENT ONLY STORES BJ'S WHOLESALE CLUB INC BRADLEES INC CONSOLIDATED STORES CORP COST U LESS INC COSTCO COMPANIES INC DOLLAR GENERAL CORP DOLLAR TREE STORES INC DUCKWALL ALCO STORES INC FAMILY DOLLAR STORES INC FRED'S INC LIQUIDATION WORLD INC LOEHMANN'S INC LOT$OFF CORPORATION MAZEL STORES INC PAMIDA HOLDINGS CORPORATION PRICESMART INC SERVICE MERCHANDISE COMPANY INC SHOPKO STORES INC SMART & FINAL INC SOLO SERVE CORPORATION SYMS CORP CORPORATE EXPRESS INC CORT BUSINESS SERVICES CORPORATION OFFICE DEPOT INC OFFICEMAX INC SCHOOL SPECIALTY INC STAPLES INC U S OFFICE PRODUCTS CO

$32,183,000 3 $249,000 8 1998 1998 Industry Sales Sales Profits Profits Code ($thousands) Rank ($thousands) Rank 4521 $3,060,100 11 $141,300 11 4521 $12,685,000 6 $775,000 3 4521 $2,373,300 12 $106,300 12 4521 $4,851,600 10 $186,200 9 4521 4521 $5,726,346 9 $404,914 6 4521 $41,296,000 2 $1,188,000 2 4521 $897,800 16 $20,500 14 4521 $1,161,400 15 $20,400 15 4521 $117,958,000 1 $3,526,000 1 4521 $247,495 21 -$8,466 21

DISCOUNT STORES 45291 45291 45291 45291 45291 45291 45291 45291 45291 45291 45291 45291 45291 45291 45291 45291 45291 45291 45291 45291 45291 45291

$323,300 $3,226,500 $1,344,444 $4,055,302 $133,900 $24,269,900 $2,627,325 $918,807 $323,254 $2,361,930 $492,200 $88,000 $443,300 $48,500 $208,300 $657,017 $97,188 $3,169,525 $2,459,603 $166,162 $82,046 $353,000

OFFICE SUPPLIES 4532 4532 4532 4532 4532 4532 4532

$3,573,300 $318,964 $8,997,700 $3,765,444 $310,455 $5,181,000 $2,776,500

GIFTS/SUNDRIES

13 $26,700 3 $68,300 8 -$22,557 2 $85,900 17 $1,200 1 $459,800 5 $144,628 9 $68,890 14 $7,491 7 $103,288 11 $9,800 19 $3,800 12 -$15,700 20 -$6,900 15 $8,500 10 $5,021 18 $3,028 4 -$110,307 6 $48,845 16 -$8,695 21 -$6,289 12 $23,000 4 6 1 3 7 2 5

$44,400 $23,395 $233,200 $89,620 $5,239 $130,900 $5,900

8 6 19 4 15 1 2 5 11 3 9 13 18 16 10 12 14 20 7 17 18 9 4 5 1 3 7 2 6

94

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 ARTISTIC GREETINGS INCORPORATED

45322

BOWLIN OUTDOOR ADVERTISING & TRAV CTRS INC BROOKSTONE INC FACTORY CARD OUTLET CORP HOST MARRIOTT SERVICES CORPORATION SHARPER IMAGE CORPORATION STANDEX INTERNATIONAL CORP

1998 1998 Industry Sales Sales Profits Profits Code ($thousands) Rank ($thousands) Rank 45322 $27,200 6 $1,100 4 45322 $239,900 3 $7,300 3 45322 $110,700 5 -$889 6 45322 $1,377,600 1 $24,100 1 45322 $216,815 4 $593 5 45322 $616,200 2 $20,100 2

PETS/PET SUPPLIES PETCO ANIMAL SUPPLIES INC PETSMART INC

45391 45391

COMPANY

SYNERGY BRANDS INC

TOBACCO STORES 453991

AMAZON.COM INC BEYOND.COM CDNOW INC CYBER SHOP INTERNATIONAL INC CYBERIAN OUTPOST INC EGGHEAD.COM INC ELCOM INTERNATIONAL INC FATBRAIN.COM INC IMALL INC N2K INC ONSALE INC PEAPOD INC PROTEAM.COM INC SHOPPING.COM SPECIALITY CATALOG CORP UBID INC VALUE AMERICA INC

ON-LINE SELLING 4541 4541 4541 4541 4541 4541 4541 4541 4541 4541 4541 4541 4541 4541 4541 4541 4541

E4L INC SHOP AT HOME INC VALUEVISION INTERNATIONAL INC

TV SHOPPING 4541A 4541A 4541A

$749,789 $1,790,599

2 1

-$13,181 -$34,430

1 2

$11,100

1

$300

1

2 -$124,500 12 -$31,100 7 -$43,800 15 -$7,888 13 -$7,092 3 -$50,200 1 -$25,561 14 -$3,190 16 $13,200 8 -$43,800 4 -$14,666 6 -$21,565 5 -$76,200 17 -$5,522 9 $1,600 10 -$10,200 11 -$53,600

17 11 12 6 5 14 10 3 1 13 8 9 16 4 2 7 15

$610,000 $36,700 $56,400 $4,814 $22,681 $293,100 $763,600 $10,900 $1,600 $56,400 $207,751 $69,265 $107,200 $851 $48,900 $48,200 $41,500 $278,500 $100,518 $218,000

DIRECT SELLING-CATALOGS/MAIL ORDER/PARTY SALES AMWAY ASIA PACIFIC LTD 45411 $587,600 AMWAY CORPORATION 45411 $5,700 AUDIO BOOK CLUB INC 45411 $14,900 AVON PRODUCTS INC 45411 $5,212,700 BEAUTICONTROL COSMETICS INC 45411 $72,200 BLAIR CORPORATION 45411 $506,800 COLDWATER CREEK INC 45411 $246,700 CONCEPTS DIRECT INC 45411 $84,800 DAMARK INTERNATIONAL INC 45411 $484,416

1 3 2

-$56,800 $1,513 $18,100

3 2 1

10 28 27 1 25 13 19 23 15

$1,500

17

-$7,000 $270,000 -$3,200 $22,300 $11,700 -$1,400 -$19,615

22 1 21 6 10 20 24

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

95

DIPLOMAT DIRECT MARKETING

45411

$74,586 24 -$1,063 19 1998 1998 Industry Sales Sales Profits Profits Code ($thousands) Rank ($thousands) Rank 45411 $451,040 16 -$22,443 25 45411 $1,798,619 4 $69,329 3 45411 $546,100 11 -$25,600 26 45411 $198,700 21 $13,500 9 45411 $1,002,800 6 $20,500 7 45411 $218,730 20 $8,402 13 45411 $247,900 18 $10,000 11 45411 $258,200 17 $9,000 12 45411 $1,000,000 7 45411 $2,220,000 3 $30,200 5 45411 $501,400 14 -$8,300 23 45411 $732,370 9 $18,644 8 45411 $530,700 12 $70,200 2 45411 $66,257 26 $2,551 16 45411 $884,100 8 $4,500 14 45411 $2,893,200 2 $3,300 15 45411 $142,900 22 $1,400 18 45411 $1,435,700 5 $41,300 4

COMPANY ENESCO GROUP INC FINGERHUT COMPANIES INC HANOVER DIRECT INC HOSIERY CORPORATION OF AMERICA, INC. INSIGHT ENTERPRISES INC J JILL GROUP INC (THE) JAN BELL MARKETING INC LILLIAN VERNON CORPORATION MARY KAY COSMETICS INC. MICRO WAREHOUSE INC MULTIPLE ZONES INTERNATIONAL INC PC CONNECTION INC REXALL SUNDOWN INC SKYMALL INC SOFTWARE SPECTRUM SPIEGEL INC SPORTSMAN'S GUIDE INC THE SYSTEMAX INC FEDERAL EXPRESS CORP

COURIER SERVICE/OVERNIGHT DELIVERY 4921 $15,872,800

METRO GLOBAL MEDIA INC

$503,100

1

1 2

$40,058 $87

1 2

1 $4,490,000

1

$20,400

1

$300

1

512131 512131 512131 512131 512131 512131 512131 512131

$846,795 $481,600 $26,100 $396,300 $413,510 $335,800 $479,097 $661,300

1 3 8 6 5 7 4 2

-$24,500 -$30,600 -$7,900 -$41,600 -$139 $28,400 $25,179 -$65,000

5 6 4 7 3 1 2 8

CABLE TV NETWORKS 5132 5132

$13,294,000 $12,096,100

1 $246,000 2 -$122,400

1 2

1

$92,000

1

1 $2,141,000

1

BOOK PUBLISHING 51113 51113

FRANKLIN COVEY CO SUCCESSORIES INC MICROSOFT CORP

1

$546,612 $56,821

COMPUTER SOFTWARE DESIGN/MANUFACTURER 5112 $14,484,000 MOVIES & PRODUCTION 5121 THEATERS

AMC ENTERTAINMENT INC CARMIKE CINEMAS INC CINEMASTAR LUXURY THEATERS INC GC COMPANIES INC LOEWS CINEPLEX ENTERTAINMENT CORP MARCUS CORPORATION (THE) REGAL CINEMAS INC UNITED ARTISTS THEATRE CIRCUIT INC TIME WARNER INC VIACOM INC AMERICA ONLINE INC AMERICAN EXPRESS CO

INTERNET SERVICE HOSTS AND PROVIDERS 51339 $2,600,000 CREDIT CARD PROCESSING 52232A

$19,132,000

96

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 EQUIFAX INC

52232A

COMPANY SPS TRANSACTION SERVICES INC TOTAL SYSTEM SERVICES INC FIRST DATA CORP

$1,620,978 2 $193,433 2 1998 1998 Industry Sales Sales Profits Profits Code ($thousands) Rank ($thousands) Rank 52232A $284,585 4 $38,500 4 52232A $396,200 3 $54,800 3 ELECTRONIC TRANSFERS 5223B

$5,234,500

1

$356,700

1

$233,900 $375,700 $20,911 $21,063 $13,400 $490,300

3 2 5 4 6 1

-$3,700 $63,800 -$13,798 $1,154 $1,800 -$61,200

4 1 5 3 2 6

$1,389,600

1

$692,571

1

$105,176

1

CONSULTING SERVICES-COMPUTER 54151 $199,099

1

$20,686

1

$27,500

1

-$12,300

1

THEME PARKS/RIDES/GAME CENTERS 7131 $25,100 7131 $22,976,000

2 1

-$11,600

1

$1,317,100 $1,308,700

1 2

$104,100 $68,400

1 2

$798,144

1

$30,488

1

PAYMENT PROCESSING SERVICE CHECKFREE CORP 52252A CONCORD EFS INC 52252A DIGITAL RIVER INC 52252A ELECTRONIC CLEARING HOUSE INC 52252A FLORAFAX INTERNATIONAL INC 52252A STERLING COMMERCE INC 52252A GREEN TREE FINANCIAL CORP ROUSE CO (THE) FAIR ISAAC AND COMPANY INC HEARX LTD IWERKS ENTERTAINMENT INC WALT DISNEY COMPANY (THE) CBRL GROUP INC STARBUCKS CORP REGIS CORP

CONSUMER FINANCE 522921 REAL ESTATE SERVICES 531

HOSPITALS/CLINICS 6214

RESTAURANTS 7221 7221 HAIR, NAIL AND SKIN SALONS 81211

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

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98

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

ALPHABETICAL INDEX If you are seeking a company by name and you do not find it on this list, please turn to the back of the book to the Index of Store Names, Subsidiaries, Brand Names and Selected Affiliations. You may find your target firm there. COMPANY

INDUSTRY CODE

1 800 CONTACTS 7-ELEVEN INC 99 CENTS ONLY STORES A C MOORE ARTS & CRAFTS AARON RENTS INC ABERCROMBIE & FITCH CO AHOLD ALBERTO-CULVER COMPANY ALBERTSONS INC AMAZON.COM INC AMC ENTERTAINMENT INC AMERICA ONLINE INC AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS INC AMERICAN EXPRESS CO AMERICAN STORES COMPANY AMES DEPARTMENT STORES INC AMWAY ASIA PACIFIC LTD AMWAY CORPORATION ANNTAYLOR STORES CORP ARDEN GROUP INC ARTISTIC GREETINGS INC ATEC GROUP INC AUDIO BOOK CLUB INC AUDIO KING CORPORATION AUTHENTIC FITNESS CORP AUTONATION INC AUTOZONE INC AVON PRODUCTS INC BABBAGE'S ETC BARBEQUES GALORE LIMITED BARNES & NOBLE INC BATTERIES BATTERIES INC BEAUTICONTROL COSMETICS INC BEBE STORES INC BED BATH & BEYOND INC BEST BUY CO INC BESTWAY INC BEYOND.COM BIG DOG HOLDINGS INC BIG ENTERTAINMENT INC BIOZHEM COSMECEUTICALS BJ'S WHOLESALE CLUB INC BLAIR CORPORATION

44613 44512 45291 45112 4400 4481 4451 44612 4451 4541 512131 51339 4481 52232A 4451 4521 45411 45411 4481 4451 45322 44312 45411 443 45111 4411 4413 44612 4541 4442 4512 4400 44612 4481 44229 443 443 44312 4481 45112 44612 45291 4481

BLUE RHINO CORPORATION BOMBAY COMPANY INC (THE) BON-TON STORES INC (THE) BOOKS A MILLION INC BORDERS GROUP INC BOWLIN OUTDOOR ADVERTISING & TRAVEL BRADLEES INC BRAUN'S FASHIONS CORPORATION BROOKSTONE INC BRUNO'S INC BRYLANE INC BUCKLE INC (THE) BUILDING MATERIALS HOLDING CORP BURLINGTON COAT FACTORY WAREHOUSE CACHE INC CALLOWAY'S NURSERY INC CARMAX GROUP CARMIKE CINEMAS INC CARR-GOTTSTEIN FOODS CO. CASEY'S GENERAL STORES INC CASH AMERICA INTERNATIONAL INC CATHERINES STORES CORPORATION CATO CORP CBRL GROUP INC CD WAREHOUSE INC CDNOW INC CDW COMPUTER CENTERS INC CELLSTAR CORPORATION CENTRAL TRACTOR FARM & COUNTRY INC CHARMING SHOPPES INC CHECKFREE CORP CHICO'S FAS INC CHILDREN'S PLACE (THE) CINEMASTAR LUXURY THEATERS INC CIRCUIT CITY GROUP CLAIRE'S STORES INC COLDWATER CREEK INC COLE NATIONAL CORPORATION COLES MYER LTD COLLEGIATE PACIFIC INC COMP USA INC COMPAQ COMPUTER CORP CONCEPTS DIRECT INC CONCORD EFS INC CONSOLIDATED STORES CORP COPART INC CORNERSTONE PROPANE PARTNERS LP CORPORATE EXPRESS INC CORT BUSINESS SERVICES CORPORATION COSMETIC CENTER INC (THE) COST PLUS INC COST U LESS INC COSTCO COMPANIES INC CREATIVE COMPUTERS INC

4400 421 4521 4512 4512 45322 45291 4481 45322 4451 4481 4481 44413 4481 4481 4442 4411 512131 4451 44512 4400 4481 4481 7221 45122A 4541 44312 443 4400 4481 52252A 4481 44813 512131 443 44831 4481 44613 4481 45111 44312 3341A 45291 52252A 45291 4411 44719 4532 4532 44612 421 45291 45291 44312

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 CROSS CONTINENT AUTO CROWN BOOKS CORP CROWN GROUP INC CSK AUTO INC CUMBERLAND FARMS INC CVS CORPORATION CYBER SHOP INTERNATIONAL INC CYBERIAN OUTPOST INC D H MARKETING & CONSULTING DAIRY MART CONVENIENCE STORES INC DAMARK INTERNATIONAL INC DAYTON HUDSON CORPORATION DEB SHOPS INC DELIA'S INC DELL COMPUTER CORPORATION DESIGNS INC DIGITAL RIVER INC DILLARD'S INC DIPLOMAT DIRECT MARKETING DISCOUNT AUTO PARTS INC DOLLAR GENERAL CORPORATION DOLLAR TREE STORES INC DRESS BARN INC (THE) DRUG EMPORIUM INC DUANE READE INC DUCKWALL ALCO STORES INC E4L INC EAGLE FOOD CENTERS INC EAGLE HARDWARE & GARDEN INC EDISON BROTHERS STORES INC EGGHEAD.COM INC ELCOM INTERNATIONAL INC ELDER BEERMAN STORES CORP (THE) ELECTRONIC CLEARING HOUSE INC ELECTRONICS BOUTIQUE HOLDINGS CORP. ELEGANT ILLUSIONS INC ENESCO GROUP INC EQUIFAX INC EVANS INC EVANS SYSTEMS INC EZCORP INC FACTORY 2 U STORES INC FACTORY CARD OUTLET CORPORATION FAIR ISAAC AND COMPANY INC FAMILY DOLLAR STORES INC FATBRAIN.COM INC FEDERAL EXPRESS CORP FEDERATED DEPARTMENT STORES INC FERRELLGAS PARTNERS L P FFP PARTNERS LP FILENE'S BASEMENT CORP FINGERHUT COMPANIES INC FINISH LINE INC (THE) FINLAY ENTERPRISES INC FIRST CASH INC

99 4411 4512 4411 4413 44512 44611 4541 4541 4400 44512 45411 4521 4481 4481 3341A 4481 52252A 4521 45411 4413 45291 45291 4481 44611 44611 45291 4541 4451 44413 4481 4541 4541 4521 52252A 45112B 44831 45411 52232A 4481 44512 4400 4481 45322 54151 45291 4541 4921 4521 44719 44512 4481 45411 4482 44831 4400

FIRST DATA CORP FLANIGAN'S ENTERPRISES INC FLEMING COMPANIES INC FLORAFAX INTERNATIONAL INC FLORSHEIM GROUP INC FOOD LION INC FOODARAMA SUPERMARKETS, INC. FOOTSTAR INC FRANKLIN COVEY CO FRED MEYER INC FRED'S INC FRIEDMAN'S INC FUNCO INC GADZOOKS INC GALLERY OF HISTORY INC GANTOS INC GAP INC GARDEN BOTANIKA INC GARDEN RIDGE CORPORATION GART SPORTS COMPANY GATEWAY INC GC COMPANIES INC GENERAL NUTRITION COMPANIES INC GENESCO INC GENOVESE DRUG STORES INC GETTY IMAGES INC GETTY PETROLEUM MARKETING GLACIER WATER SERVICES INC GLOBE BUSINESS RESOURCES INC GLOBENET INTERNATIONAL GOOD GUYS INC (THE) GOODY'S FAMILY CLOTHING INC GOTTSCHALKS INC GRAND UNION COMPANY (THE) GREAT ATLANTIC & PACIFIC TEA CO INC GREAT TRAIN STORE COMPANY (THE) GREEN TREE FINANCIAL CORP GRIFFIN LAND & NURSERIES GRISTEDE'S SLOAN'S INC GROSSMAN'S INC GROUP 1 AUTOMOTIVE INC GUITAR CENTER INC GYMBOREE CORP (THE) HANCOCK FABRICS INC HANNAFORD BROS CO HANOVER DIRECT INC HAROLD'S STORES INC HARRY'S FARMERS MARKET INC HARVEY ELECTRONICS INC HASTINGS ENTERTAINMENT HAVERTY FURNITURE COS INC HEALTHRITE INC HEARX LTD HECHINGER CO HEILIG MEYERS COMPANY

5223B 4453 4451 4531 4482 4451 4451 4482 51113 4521 45291 44831 45112B 4481 45112 4481 4481 44612 45112 45111 44312 512131 446191 4482 44611 442299 44719 4400 421 446191 443 4481 4521 4451 4451 45112 522921 4442 4451 44413 4411 45122A 44813 45112 4451 45411 4481 4451 443 45122A 421 446191 6214 44413 421

100 HERITAGE PROPANE PARTNERS HIBBETT SPORTING GOODS INC HILLS STORES COMPANY HOLIDAY RV SUPERSTORES HOME DEPOT INC HOMEBASE INC HOMELAND HOLDING CORP HORIZON PHARMACIES INC HOSIERY CORPORATION OF AMERICA, INC. HOST MARRIOTT SERVICES CORP HOT TOPIC INC IBM IMALL INC INGLES MARKETS INC INSIGHT ENTERPRISES INC INTERNATIONAL CUTLERY LTD INTERTAN INC INTIMATE BRANDS INC ITO YOKADO CO LTD IWERKS ENTERTAINMENT INC J BAKER INC J C PENNEY COMPANY INC J JILL GROUP INC (THE) JACOBSON STORES INC JAN BELL MARKETING INC JENNIFER CONVERTIBLES INC JG INDUSTRIES INC JO ANN STORES INC JOS A BANK CLOTHIERS INC JUST FOR FEET INC K&G MEN'S CENTER INC KIDS STUFF INC KMART CORPORATION KOHL'S CORP KROGER CO (THE) LAMONTS APPAREL INC LANDS END INC LECHTERS INC LESLIE'S POOLMART LET'S TALK CELL & WIRE LILLIAN VERNON CORPORATION LIMITED INC (THE) LINENS N THINGS INC LIQUIDATION WORLD INC LITHIA MOTORS INC LITTLE SWITZERLAND INC LOEHMANN'S INC LOEWS CINEPLEX ENTERTAINMENT CORP LONGS DRUG STORES CORPORATION LOT$OFF CORPORATION LOWE'S COS INC MARCUS CORPORATION (THE) MARINEMAX INC MARSH SUPERMARKETS INC

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 44719 45111 4521 4400 44413 44413 4451 44611 45411 45322 4481 3341A 4541 4451 45411 44229 443 4481 44512 7131 4481 4521 45411 4521 45411 421 4521 45112 4481 4482 4481 44813 4521 4521 4451 4481 4481 44229 4442 443 45411 45411 44229 45291 4411 44831 45291 512131 44611 45291 44413 512131 4400 4451

MARY KAY COSMETICS INC. MAXIM GROUP INC (THE) MAY DEPARTMENT STORES COMPANY MAZEL STORES INC MEDIA ARTS GROUP INC MEN'S WEARHOUSE INC (THE) METRO GLOBAL MEDIA INC METROLOGIC INSTRUMENTS INC MICHAELS STORES INC MICRO WAREHOUSE INC MICROAGE INC MICROSOFT CORP MICROTOUCH SYSTEMS INC MID STATES PLC MOTHERS WORK INC MOVIE GALLERY INC MULTIPLE ZONES INTERNATIONAL INC MUSICLAND STORES CORP N2K INC NACCO INDUSTRIES INC NASH FINCH COMPANY NATIONAL HOME CENTERS INC NATIONAL PROPANE PARTNERS NATIONAL RECORD MART INC NATURAL WONDERS INC NATURE'S SUNSHINE PRODUCTS INC NCR CORPORATION NEIMAN MARCUS GROUP INC (THE) NEW WEST EYEWORKS INC NOODLE KIDOODLE INC NORDSTROM INC O'REILLY AUTOMOTIVE INC OFFICE DEPOT INC OFFICEMAX INC ONE PRICE CLOTHING STORES INC ONSALE INC ORCHARD SUPPLY HARDWARE OSHMAN'S SPORTING GOODS INC PACIFIC SUNWEAR OF CALIFORNIA INC PAMIDA HOLDINGS CORPORATION PANTRY INC (THE) PAPER WAREHOUSE PARTY CITY CORPORATION PAUL HARRIS STORES INC PAWNMART INC PAYLESS CASHWAYS INC PAYLESS SHOESOURCE INC PC CONNECTION INC PEAPOD INC PENN TRAFFIC COMPANY (THE) PEP BOYS-MANNY MOE & JACK (THE) PERFUMANIA INC PETCO ANIMAL SUPPLIES INC PETROLEUM HEAT & POWER CO

44612 44221 4521 45291 442299 4481 5121 3341B 45112 45411 44312B 5112 3341B 4413 4481 45122B 45411 45122A 4541 443 4451 44413 44719 45122A 446191 446191 3341A 4521 44613 45112C 4521 4413 4532 4532 4481 4541 44413 45111 4481 45291 44512 44229 44229 4481 4400 44413 4482 45411 4541 4451 4413 44612 45391 44719

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 PETSMART INC PHAR-MOR, INC. PHARMHOUSE CORP PIER 1 IMPORTS INC PIERCING PAGODA INC PLAY CO TOYS & ENTERTAINMENT CORP PREMIER CONCEPTS INC PRICESMART INC PROFFITTS, INC. PROTEAM.COM INC PSC INC PUBLIX SUPER MARKETS INC PUEBLO XTRA INTERNATIONAL, INC. RAG SHOPS INC REAL GOODS TRADING CORPORATION REEDS JEWELERS INC REGAL CINEMAS INC REGIS CORP RESTORATION HARDWARE REX STORES CORPORATION REXALL SUNDOWN INC RICHFOOD HOLDINGS INC RIGHT START INC (THE) RITE AID CORPORATION RIVERSIDE GROUP INC ROBERDS INC ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY ROOM PLUS INC ROSS STORES INC ROUSE CO (THE) RUDDICK CORPORATION RUSH ENTERPRISES INC S & K FAMOUS BRANDS INC SAFEWAY INC SAKS HOLDINGS INC SAMUELS JEWELERS INC SANTA ISABEL SCHOOL SPECIALTY INC SCHULTZ SAV O STORES INC SEARS ROEBUCK & CO SEAWAY FOOD TOWN INC SERVICE MERCHANDISE COMPANY INC SHARPER IMAGE CORPORATION SHERWIN WILLIAMS COMPANY (THE) SHOE CARNIVAL INC SHOE PAVILION INC SHOP AT HOME INC SHOPKO STORES INC SHOPPING.COM SKYMALL INC SMART & FINAL INC SMART CHOICE AUTOMOTIVE GROUP SOFTWARE SPECTRUM SOLO SERVE CORPORATION SONIC AUTOMOTIVE INC

101 45391 44611 44611 421 44831 45112C 44831 45291 acquired 45111 3341B 4451 4451 45112 4400 44831 512131 81211 421 443 446191 4451 4481 44611 44413 421 4400 421 4481 531 4451 4413 4481 4451 4521 44831 4451 4532 4451 4521 4451 44831 45322 3255 4482 4482 4541 45291 4541 45411 45291 4411 4541 45291 4411

SOUND ADVICE INC SPECIALITY CATALOG CORP SPIEGEL INC SPORT CHALET INC SPORT SUPPLY GROUP INC SPORTS AUTHORITY INC (THE) SPORTSMAN'S GUIDE INC THE SPS TRANSACTION SERVICES INC STANDEX INTERNATIONAL CORP STAPLES INC STARBUCKS CORP STEIN MART INC STERLING COMMERCE INC STERLING VISION INC STROUDS INC SUCCESSORIES INC SUNBELT NURSERY GROUP INC SUNGLASS HUT INTERNATIONAL INC SUPER-SOL LTD SUPERMERCADOS UNIMARC SUPERVALU INC SYMBOL TECHNOLOGIES INC SYMS CORP SYNERGY BRANDS INC SYSTEMAX INC TALBOTS INC (THE) TANDY CORP THREE D DEPARTMENTS INC TIFFANY & CO TIME WARNER INC TJX COMPANIES INC TODAY'S MAN INC TOPS APPLIANCE CITY INC TOSCO CORP TOTAL SYSTEM SERVICES INC TOYS R US INC TRACK N TRAIL TRACTOR SUPPLY COMPANY TRAK AUTO CORPORATION TRANS WORLD ENTERTAINMENT CORP TRANS-LUX CORPORATION TRAVEL PORTS OF AMERICA TRAVIS BOAT & MOTORS INC TREND LINES INC TWEETER HOME ENTERTAINMENT U S OFFICE PRODUCTS CO UBID INC UGLY DUCKLING CORPORATION ULTIMATE ELECTRONICS INC UNI MARTS INC UNITED ARTISTS THEATRE CIRCUIT INC UNITED AUTO GROUP INC UNITED RETAIL GROUP INC URBAN OUTFITTERS INC US PAWN INC

443 4541 45411 45111 45111 45111 45111 52232A 45322 4532 7221 4521 52252A 44613 44229 51113 4442 44613 4451 4451 4451 3341B 45291 453991 45411 4481 443 44229 44831 5132 4481 4481 443 44512 52232A 45112C 4482 4400 4413 45122A 3341B 44719 4400 44413 443 4532 4541 4411 443 44512 512131 4411 4481 4481 4400

102

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

US VISION INC VALUE AMERICA INC VALUE CITY DEPARTMENT STORES INC VALUEVISION INTERNATIONAL INC VENATOR GROUP INC VIACOM INC VIDEO UPDATE INC VILLAGE SUPER MARKET INC VISTA EYECARE INC WAL MART STORES INC WALGREEN CO WALT DISNEY COMPANY (THE) WEIS MARKETS INC WELCOME HOME INC WEST MARINE INC WESTERN BEEF INC WET SEAL INC (THE) WHITEHALL JEWELERS INC WHOLE FOODS MARKET INC WICKES INC WILD OATS MARKETS INC WILLIAMS SONOMA INC WILSONS THE LEATHER EXPERTS INC WINN DIXIE STORES INC WOLOHAN LUMBER CO WORLD OF SCIENCE ZALE CORPORATION ZIONS COOPERATIVE MERCANTILE

44613 4541 4521 4541 4482 51312 45122B 4451 44613 4521 44611 7131 4451 421 4400 4451 4481 44831 4451 44413 4451 44229 4481 4451 44413 4400 44831 4521

GEOGRAPHICAL INDEXES 1) Company headquarters locations by state 2) Stores, offices, and subsidiaries by regions of the U.S. 3) Firms with international operations The headquarters locations of each company are on the following indexes to help you locate members of THE RETAIL 500 within the part of the country, or the world, of interest. However, companies are constantly opening and closing various locations. You should consider contacting companies that particularly interest you, to see whether they have locations in your area. You can also try looking for companies that interest you in the white pages of the telephone book in cities where you want to work (libraries usually have telephone books from all

over the country), or you might try dialing “information” within cities that interest you, and asking for listings for the companies in question.

HEADQUARTERS LOCATION, BY STATE ALASKA CARR-GOTTSTEIN FOODS CO.; Anchorage ALABAMA BOOKS A MILLION INC; Birmingham BRUNO'S INC; Birmingham HIBBETT SPORTING GOODS INC; Birmingham JUST FOR FEET INC; Birmingham MOVIE GALLERY INC; Dothan ARKANSAS DILLARD'S INC; Little Rock NATIONAL HOME CENTERS INC; Springdale WAL MART STORES INC; Bentonville ARIZONA CSK AUTO INC; Phoenix INSIGHT ENTERPRISES INC; Tempe MICROAGE INC; Tempe NEW WEST EYEWORKS INC; Tempe PETSMART INC; Phoenix SKYMALL INC; Phoenix UGLY DUCKLING CORPORATION; Phoenix CALIFORNIA 99 CENTS ONLY STORES; City of Commerce ARDEN GROUP INC; Compton AUTHENTIC FITNESS CORP; Commerce BEBE STORES INC; Brisbane BEYOND.COM; Sunnyvale BIG DOG HOLDINGS INC; Santa Barbara BIOZHEM COSMECEUTICALS; San Juan Capistrano BUILDING MATERIALS HOLDING; San Francisco CINEMASTAR LUXURY THEATERS INC; San Diego COPART INC; Benicia CORNERSTONE PROPANE PARTNERS; Watsonville COST PLUS INC; Oakland CREATIVE COMPUTERS INC; Torrance E4L INC; Encino ELECTRONIC CLEARING HOUSE INC; Agoura Hills ELEGANT ILLUSIONS INC; Pacific Grove FACTORY 2 U STORES INC; San Diego FAIR ISAAC AND COMPANY INC; San Rafael FATBRAIN.COM INC; Sunnyvale GAP INC; San Francisco GLACIER WATER SERVICES INC; Carlsbad GOOD GUYS INC (THE); Brisbane

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 GOTTSCHALKS INC; Fresno GUITAR CENTER INC; Agoura Hills GYMBOREE CORP (THE); Burlingame HOMEBASE INC; Irvine HOT TOPIC INC; Pomona IMALL INC; Santa Monica IWERKS ENTERTAINMENT INC; Burbank LESLIE'S POOLMART; Chatsworth LONGS DRUG STORES CORPORATION; Walnut Creek MEDIA ARTS GROUP INC; San Jose NATURAL WONDERS INC; Fremont ONSALE INC; Menlow Park ORCHARD SUPPLY HARDWARE; San Jose PACIFIC SUNWEAR OF CALIFORNIA INC; Anaheim PETCO ANIMAL SUPPLIES INC; San Diego PLAY CO TOYS & ENTERTAINMENT; San Marcos PRICESMART INC; San Diego REAL GOODS TRADING CORPORATION; Ukiah RESTORATION HARDWARE; Corte Madera RIGHT START INC (THE); Westlake Village ROSS STORES INC; Newark SAFEWAY INC; Pleasanton SHARPER IMAGE CORPORATION; San Francisco SHOE PAVILION INC; Richmond SHOPPING.COM; Corona Del Mar SMART & FINAL INC; Los Angeles SPORT CHALET INC; La Canada STROUDS INC; City of Industry SUNBELT NURSERY GROUP INC; San Juan Capistrano THREE D DEPARTMENTS INC; Costa Mesa TRACK N TRAIL; El Dorado Hills WALT DISNEY COMPANY (THE); Burbank WEST MARINE INC; Watsonville WET SEAL INC (THE); Foothill Ranch WILLIAMS SONOMA INC; San Francisco COLORADO CONCEPTS DIRECT INC; Longmont CORPORATE EXPRESS INC; Broomfield GART SPORTS COMPANY; Denver PREMIER CONCEPTS INC; Aurora ROCKY MTN CHOCOLATE FACTORY; Durango ULTIMATE ELECTRONICS INC; Thornton UNITED ARTISTS THEATRE CIRCUIT; Englewood US PAWN INC; Westminster WILD OATS MARKETS INC; Boulder CONNECTICUT AMES DEPARTMENT STORES INC; Rocky Hill CYBERIAN OUTPOST INC; Kent MICRO WAREHOUSE INC; Norwalk PETROLEUM HEAT & POWER CO; Stamford TOSCO CORP; Stamford TRANS-LUX CORPORATION; Norwalk

103 DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA U S OFFICE PRODUCTS CO; Washington DELAWARE CONSOLIDATED STORES CORP; Wilmington FLORIDA AUDIO BOOK CLUB INC; Boca Raton AUTONATION INC; Fort Lauderdale BIG ENTERTAINMENT INC; Boca Raton CHICO'S FAS INC; Ft. Myers CLAIRE'S STORES INC; Pembroke Pines DISCOUNT AUTO PARTS INC; Lakeland FLANIGAN'S ENTERPRISES INC; Fort Lauderdale FLORAFAX INTERNATIONAL INC; Vero Beach HEARX LTD; West Palm Beach HOLIDAY RV SUPERSTORES; Orlando JAN BELL MARKETING INC; Sunrise LET'S TALK CELL & WIRE; Miami MARINEMAX INC; Clearwater OFFICE DEPOT INC; Delray Beach PERFUMANIA INC; Miami PUBLIX SUPER MARKETS INC; Lakeland PUEBLO XTRA INTERNATIONAL,; Pompano Beach REXALL SUNDOWN INC; Boca Raton RIVERSIDE GROUP INC; Jacksonville SMART CHOICE AUTOMOTIVE GROUP; Titusville SOUND ADVICE INC; Dania SPORTS AUTHORITY INC (THE); Fort Lauderdale STEIN MART INC; Jacksonville SUNGLASS HUT INTERNATIONAL INC; Coral Gables WINN DIXIE STORES INC; Jacksonville GEORGIA AARON RENTS INC; Atlanta CARMIKE CINEMAS INC; Columbus CHECKFREE CORP; Norcross EQUIFAX INC; Atlanta FRIEDMAN'S INC; Savannah HARRY'S FARMERS MARKET INC; Roswell HAVERTY FURNITURE COS INC; Atlanta HOME DEPOT INC; Atlanta K&G MEN'S CENTER INC; Atlanta MAXIM GROUP INC (THE); Kennesaw TOTAL SYSTEM SERVICES INC; Columbus VISTA EYECARE INC; Lawrenceville IOWA CASEY'S GENERAL STORES INC; Ankeny CENTRAL TRACTOR FARM & COUNTRY; Des Moines NATIONAL PROPANE PARTNERS; Cedar Rapids IDAHO ALBERTSONS INC; Boise COLDWATER CREEK INC; Sandpoint

104 ILLINOIS ALBERTO-CULVER COMPANY; Melrose Park CDW COMPUTER CENTERS INC; Vernon Hills EAGLE FOOD CENTERS INC; Milan ENESCO GROUP INC; Itasca EVANS INC; Chicago FACTORY CARD OUTLET CORP; Bensenville FLORSHEIM GROUP INC; Chicago JG INDUSTRIES INC; Chicago PEAPOD INC; Skokie SEARS ROEBUCK & CO; Hoffman Estates SPIEGEL INC; Downers Grove SPS TRANSACTION SERVICES INC; Riverwoods SUCCESSORIES INC; Aurora UBID INC; Elk Grove Village WALGREEN CO; Deerfield WHITEHALL JEWELERS INC; Chicago WICKES INC; Vernon Hills INDIANA FINISH LINE INC (THE); Indianapolis MARSH SUPERMARKETS INC; Indianapolis PAUL HARRIS STORES INC; Indianapolis SHOE CARNIVAL INC; Evansville KANSAS DUCKWALL ALCO STORES INC; Abilene PAYLESS SHOESOURCE INC; Topeka MASSACHUSETTS BJ'S WHOLESALE CLUB INC; Natick BRADLEES INC; Braintree CUMBERLAND FARMS INC; Canton DESIGNS INC; Needham ELCOM INTERNATIONAL INC; Norwood FILENE'S BASEMENT CORP; Wellesley GC COMPANIES INC; Chestnut Hill GROSSMAN'S INC; Stoughton HILLS STORES COMPANY; Canton J BAKER INC; Canton J JILL GROUP INC (THE); Hingham MICROTOUCH SYSTEMS INC; Methuen NEIMAN MARCUS GROUP INC (THE); Chestnut Hill SPECIALITY CATALOG CORP; South Easton STAPLES INC; Westborough TALBOTS INC (THE); Hingham TJX COMPANIES INC; Framingham TREND LINES INC; Revere TWEETER HOME ENTERTAINMENT; Canton MARYLAND COSMETIC CENTER INC (THE); Columbia CROWN BOOKS CORP; Landover HEALTHRITE INC; Owings Mills HECHINGER CO; Largo HOST MARRIOTT SERVICES CORP; Bethesda JOS A BANK CLOTHIERS INC; Hampstead ROUSE CO (THE); Columbia

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 TRAK AUTO CORPORATION; Landover MAINE HANNAFORD BROS CO; Scarborough MICHIGAN AMWAY CORPORATION; Ada BORDERS GROUP INC; Ann Arbor GANTOS INC; Grand Rapids JACOBSON STORES INC; Jackson KMART CORPORATION; Troy WOLOHAN LUMBER CO; Saginaw MINNESOTA AUDIO KING CORPORATION; Minneapolis BEST BUY CO INC; Eden Praire BRAUN'S FASHIONS CORPORATION; Plymouth DAMARK INTERNATIONAL INC; Minneapolis DAYTON HUDSON CORPORATION; Minneapolis DIGITAL RIVER INC; Eden Prairie FINGERHUT COMPANIES INC; Minnetonka FUNCO INC; Edaen Prairie GREEN TREE FINANCIAL CORP; Saint Paul MUSICLAND STORES CORP; Minnetonka NASH FINCH COMPANY; Minneapolis PAPER WAREHOUSE; Minneapolis REGIS CORP; Edina SPORTSMAN'S GUIDE INC THE; South St. Paul SUPERVALU INC; Minneapolis VALUEVISION INTERNATIONAL INC; Minneapolis VIDEO UPDATE INC; St. Paul WILSONS THE LEATHER EXPERTS; Brooklyn Park MISSOURI AMC ENTERTAINMENT INC; Kansas City FERRELLGAS PARTNERS L P; Liberty MAY DEPARTMENT STORES COMPANY; St. Louis O'REILLY AUTOMOTIVE INC; Springfield PAYLESS CASHWAYS INC; Kansas City MISSISSIPPI HANCOCK FABRICS INC; Tupelo NORTH CAROLINA BLUE RHINO CORPORATION; Winston-Salem CATO CORP; Charlotte FAMILY DOLLAR STORES INC; Charlotte FOOD LION INC; Salisbury INGLES MARKETS INC; Asheville LOWE'S COS INC; North Wilkesboro PANTRY INC (THE); Sanford REEDS JEWELERS INC; Wilmington RUDDICK CORPORATION; Charlotte SONIC AUTOMOTIVE INC; Charlotte WELCOME HOME INC; Wilmington NEBRASKA BUCKLE INC (THE); Kearney

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 PAMIDA HOLDINGS CORPORATION; Omaha NEW HAMPSHIRE BROOKSTONE INC; Nashua PC CONNECTION INC; Merrimack STANDEX INTERNATIONAL CORP; Salem NEW JERSEY A C MOORE ARTS & CRAFTS; Blackwood BED BATH & BEYOND INC; Union BURLINGTON COAT FACTORY WHSE; Burlington CHILDREN'S PLACE (THE); W Caldwell CYBER SHOP INTERNATIONAL INC; Jersey City EDISON BROTHERS STORES INC; South Hackensack FIRST DATA CORP; Hackensack FOODARAMA SUPERMARKETS, INC.; Freehold FOOTSTAR INC; Mahwah GETTY PETROLEUM MARKETING; Jericho GRAND UNION COMPANY (THE); Wayne GREAT ATLANTIC & PACIFIC TEA CO; Montvale HANOVER DIRECT INC; Weehawken HARVEY ELECTRONICS INC; Lyndhurst LECHTERS INC; Harrison LINENS N THINGS INC; Clifton METROLOGIC INSTRUMENTS INC; Blackwood PARTY CITY CORPORATION; Rockaway PROTEAM.COM INC; Secaucus RAG SHOPS INC; Hawthorne ROOM PLUS INC; Paterson SYMS CORP; Secaucus TODAY'S MAN INC; Moorestown TOPS APPLIANCE CITY INC; Edison TOYS R US INC; Paramus UNITED RETAIL GROUP INC; Rochelle Park US VISION INC; Glendora VILLAGE SUPER MARKET INC; Springfield NEW MEXICO; BOWLIN OUTDOOR ADVERTISING; Albuquerque NEVADA GALLERY OF HISTORY INC; Las Vegas NEW YORK AMERICAN EXPRESS CO; New York ANNTAYLOR STORES CORP; New York ARTISTIC GREETINGS INCORPORATED; Elmira ATEC GROUP INC; Hauppauge AVON PRODUCTS INC; New York BARNES & NOBLE INC; New York BATTERIES BATTERIES INC; New York BRYLANE INC; New York CACHE INC; New York CDNOW INC; New York DELIA'S INC; New York DIPLOMAT DIRECT MARKETING; Stony Point DRESS BARN INC (THE); Suffern DUANE READE INC; New York

105 FINLAY ENTERPRISES INC; New York GENOVESE DRUG STORES INC; Melville GRIFFIN LAND & NURSERIES; New York GRISTEDE'S SLOAN'S INC; New York IBM; Armonk INTERNATIONAL CUTLERY LTD; New York JENNIFER CONVERTIBLES INC; Woodbury LILLIAN VERNON CORPORATION; New Rochelle LOEHMANN'S INC; Bronx LOEWS CINEPLEX ENTERTAINMENT; New York N2K INC; New York NOODLE KIDOODLE INC; Syosset PENN TRAFFIC COMPANY (THE); Syracuse PHARMHOUSE CORP; New York PSC INC; Webster SAKS HOLDINGS INC; New York STERLING VISION INC; East Meadow SYMBOL TECHNOLOGIES INC; Holtsville SYSTEMAX INC; Port Washington TIFFANY & CO; New York TIME WARNER INC; New York TRANS WORLD ENTERTAINMENT CORP; Albany TRAVEL PORTS OF AMERICA; Rochester UNITED AUTO GROUP INC; New York VENATOR GROUP INC; New York VIACOM INC; New York WESTERN BEEF INC; Ridgewood WORLD OF SCIENCE; Rochester OHIO ABERCROMBIE & FITCH CO; Reynoldsburg COLE NATIONAL CORPORATION; Mayfield Heights DAIRY MART CONVENIENCE STORES INC; Hudson DRUG EMPORIUM INC; Powell ELDER BEERMAN STORES CORP (THE); Dayton FEDERATED DEPARTMENT STORES INC; Cincinnati GLOBE BUSINESS RESOURCES INC; Cincinnati INTIMATE BRANDS INC; Columbus JO ANN STORES INC; Hudson KIDS STUFF INC; Canton KROGER CO (THE); Cincinnati LIMITED INC (THE); Columbus MAZEL STORES INC; Solon NACCO INDUSTRIES INC; Mayfield Heights NCR CORPORATION; Dayton OFFICEMAX INC; Shaker Heights PHAR-MOR, INC.; Youngstown REX STORES CORPORATION; Dayton ROBERDS INC; Dayton SEAWAY FOOD TOWN INC; Maumee SHERWIN WILLIAMS COMPANY (THE); Cleveland VALUE CITY DEPARTMENT STORES INC; Columbus OKLAHOMA CD WAREHOUSE INC; Oklahoma City FLEMING COMPANIES INC; Oklahoma City

106 HAROLD'S STORES INC; Norman HERITAGE PROPANE PARTNERS; Tulsa HOMELAND HOLDING CORP; Oklahoma City FRED MEYER INC; Portland LITHIA MOTORS INC; Medford PENNSYLVANIA AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS INC; Warrendale BLAIR CORPORATION; Warren BON-TON STORES INC (THE); York CHARMING SHOPPES INC; Bensalem D H MARKETING & CONSULTING; Hawley DEB SHOPS INC; Philadelphia ELECTRONICS BOUTIQUE HOLDINGS; West Chester GENERAL NUTRITION COMPANIES INC; Pittsburgh HOSIERY CORPORATION OF AMERICA; Bensalem MOTHERS WORK INC; Philadelphia NATIONAL RECORD MART INC; Carnegie PEP BOYS-MANNY MOE & JACK (THE); Philadelphia PIERCING PAGODA INC; Bethlehem RITE AID CORPORATION; Harrisburg SYNERGY BRANDS INC; Wexford UNI MARTS INC; State College URBAN OUTFITTERS INC; Philadelphia WEIS MARKETS INC; Sunbury RHODE ISLAND CVS CORPORATION; Woonsocket METRO GLOBAL MEDIA INC; Cranston SOUTH CAROLINA ONE PRICE CLOTHING STORES INC; Spartanburg SOUTH DAKOTA GATEWAY INC; North Sioux City TENNESSEE AUTOZONE INC; Memphis CATHERINES STORES CORPORATION; Memphis CBRL GROUP INC; Lebanon CONCORD EFS INC; Memphis DOLLAR GENERAL CORPORATION; Nashville FEDERAL EXPRESS CORP; Memphis FRED'S INC; Memphis GENESCO INC; Nashville GOODY'S FAMILY CLOTHING INC; Knoxville MID STATES PLC; Nashville PROFFITTS, INC.; Alcoa REGAL CINEMAS INC; Knoxville SERVICE MERCHANDISE COMPANY INC; Nashville SHOP AT HOME INC; Nashville TRACTOR SUPPLY COMPANY; Nashville TEXAS 7-ELEVEN INC; Dallas BABBAGE'S ETC; Grapevine

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 BEAUTICONTROL COSMETICS INC; Carrollton BESTWAY INC; Dallas BOMBAY COMPANY INC (THE); Fort Worth CALLOWAY'S NURSERY INC; Fort Worth CASH AMERICA INTERNATIONAL INC; Fort Worth CELLSTAR CORPORATION; Carrollton COLLEGIATE PACIFIC INC; Farmers Branch COMP USA INC; Dallas COMPAQ COMPUTER CORP; Houston CROSS CONTINENT AUTO; Amarillo CROWN GROUP INC; Irving DELL COMPUTER CORPORATION; Round Rock EVANS SYSTEMS INC; Bay City EZCORP INC; Austin FFP PARTNERS LP; Fort Worth FIRST CASH INC; Arlington GADZOOKS INC; Carrollton GARDEN RIDGE CORPORATION; Houston GLOBENET INTERNATIONAL; Dallas GREAT TRAIN STORE COMPANY (THE); Dallas GROUP 1 AUTOMOTIVE INC; Houston HASTINGS ENTERTAINMENT; Amarillo HORIZON PHARMACIES INC; Princeton INTERTAN INC; Fort Worth J C PENNEY COMPANY INC; Dallas LOT$OFF CORPORATION; San Antonio MARY KAY COSMETICS INC.; Dallas MEN'S WEARHOUSE INC (THE); Houston MICHAELS STORES INC; Dallas OSHMAN'S SPORTING GOODS INC; Houston PAWNMART INC; Fort Worth PIER 1 IMPORTS INC; Fort Worth RUSH ENTERPRISES INC; San Antonio SAMUELS JEWELERS INC; Austin SOFTWARE SPECTRUM; Garland SOLO SERVE CORPORATION; San Antonio SPORT SUPPLY GROUP INC; Farmers Branch STERLING COMMERCE INC; Dallas TANDY CORP; Fort Worth TRAVIS BOAT & MOTORS INC; Austin WHOLE FOODS MARKET INC; Austin ZALE CORPORATION; Irving UTAH 1 800 CONTACTS; Draper AMERICAN STORES COMPANY; Salt Lake City FRANKLIN COVEY CO; Salt Lake City NATURE'S SUNSHINE PRODUCTS INC; Provo ZIONS COOPERATIVE MERCANTILE; Salt Lake City

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 VIRGINIA; AMERICA ONLINE INC; Dulles CARMAX GROUP; Glen Allen CIRCUIT CITY GROUP; Richmond CORT BUSINESS SERVICES CORPORATION; Fairfax DOLLAR TREE STORES INC; Norfolk HEILIG MEYERS COMPANY; Richmond RICHFOOD HOLDINGS INC; Glen Allen S & K FAMOUS BRANDS INC; Richmond VALUE AMERICA INC; Charlottesville WASHINGTON AMAZON.COM INC; Seattle COST U LESS INC; Bellvue COSTCO COMPANIES INC; Issaquah EAGLE HARDWARE & GARDEN INC; Renton EGGHEAD.COM INC; Liberty Lake GARDEN BOTANIKA INC; Redmond GETTY IMAGES INC; Seattle LAMONTS APPAREL INC; Kirkland MICROSOFT CORP; Redmond MULTIPLE ZONES INTERNATIONAL INC; Renton NORDSTROM INC; Seattle STARBUCKS CORP; Seattle WISCONSIN KOHL'S CORP; Menomonee Falls LANDS END INC; Dodgeville MARCUS CORPORATION (THE); Milwaukee SCHOOL SPECIALTY INC; Appleton SCHULTZ SAV O STORES INC; Sheboygan SHOPKO STORES INC; Green Bay INTERNATIONAL COLES MYER LTD; Tooronga BARBEQUES GALORE LTD; Auburn, New S. Wales LIQUIDATION WORLD INC; Calgary, Alberta SANTA ISABEL; Valparaiso SUPERMERCADOS UNIMARC; Santiago AMWAY ASIA PACIFIC LTD; Causeway Bay SUPER-SOL LTD; Petah Tivka ITO YOKADO CO LTD; Tokyo AHOLD; 1500 HB Zaandam LITTLE SWITZERLAND INC; Port St. Thomas

107 INDEX BY REGIONS OF THE NATION WHERE THE RETAIL INDUSTRY 500 FIRMS HAVE LOCATIONS WEST 1 800 CONTACTS 7-ELEVEN INC 99 CENTS ONLY STORES AARON RENTS INC ABERCROMBIE & FITCH CO AHOLD ALBERTO-CULVER COMPANY ALBERTSONS INC AMAZON.COM INC AMC ENTERTAINMENT INC AMERICA ONLINE INC AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS INC AMERICAN EXPRESS CO AMERICAN STORES COMPANY AMES DEPARTMENT STORES INC AMWAY CORPORATION ANNTAYLOR STORES CORP ARDEN GROUP INC ATEC GROUP INC AUTHENTIC FITNESS CORP AUTONATION INC AUTOZONE INC AVON PRODUCTS INC BABBAGE'S ETC BARBEQUES GALORE LIMITED BARNES & NOBLE INC BATTERIES BATTERIES INC BEAUTICONTROL COSMETICS INC BEBE STORES INC BED BATH & BEYOND INC BEST BUY CO INC BEYOND.COM BIG DOG HOLDINGS INC BIOZHEM COSMECEUTICALS BLUE RHINO CORPORATION BOMBAY COMPANY INC (THE) BORDERS GROUP INC BOWLIN OUTDOOR ADVERTISING & TRAV CTRS BRAUN'S FASHIONS CORPORATION BROOKSTONE INC BUCKLE INC (THE) BUILDING MATERIALS HOLDING CORP BURLINGTON COAT FACTORY WAREHOUSE CACHE INC CARR-GOTTSTEIN FOODS CO. CATHERINES STORES CORPORATION CATO CORP CD WAREHOUSE INC CELLSTAR CORPORATION CENTRAL TRACTOR FARM & COUNTRY INC CHARMING SHOPPES INC

108 CHECKFREE CORP CHICO'S FAS INC CINEMASTAR LUXURY THEATERS INC CIRCUIT CITY GROUP CLAIRE'S STORES INC COLDWATER CREEK INC COLE NATIONAL CORPORATION COMP USA INC CONCEPTS DIRECT INC CONSOLIDATED STORES CORP COPART INC CORNERSTONE PROPANE PARTNERS LP CORPORATE EXPRESS INC CORT BUSINESS SERVICES CORPORATION COSMETIC CENTER INC (THE) COST PLUS INC COST U LESS INC COSTCO COMPANIES INC CREATIVE COMPUTERS INC CROSS CONTINENT AUTO CROWN BOOKS CORP CSK AUTO INC DAYTON HUDSON CORPORATION DEB SHOPS INC DELL COMPUTER CORPORATION DESIGNS INC DILLARD'S INC DRESS BARN INC (THE) DRUG EMPORIUM INC DUCKWALL ALCO STORES INC E4L INC EAGLE HARDWARE & GARDEN INC EDISON BROTHERS STORES INC EGGHEAD.COM INC ELCOM INTERNATIONAL INC ELECTRONIC CLEARING HOUSE INC ELECTRONICS BOUTIQUE HOLDINGS CORP. ELEGANT ILLUSIONS INC EQUIFAX INC EZCORP INC FACTORY 2 U STORES INC FAIR ISAAC AND COMPANY INC FATBRAIN.COM INC FEDERAL EXPRESS CORP FEDERATED DEPARTMENT STORES INC FERRELLGAS PARTNERS L P FINLAY ENTERPRISES INC FIRST CASH INC FIRST DATA CORP FLEMING COMPANIES INC FLORSHEIM GROUP INC FOOD LION INC FOOTSTAR INC FRANKLIN COVEY CO FRED MEYER INC FUNCO INC GALLERY OF HISTORY INC GANTOS INC

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 GAP INC GARDEN BOTANIKA INC GART SPORTS COMPANY GATEWAY INC GC COMPANIES INC GENERAL NUTRITION COMPANIES INC GENESCO INC GETTY IMAGES INC GLACIER WATER SERVICES INC GLOBE BUSINESS RESOURCES INC GOOD GUYS INC (THE) GOTTSCHALKS INC GREAT ATLANTIC & PACIFIC TEA COMPANY INC GREEN TREE FINANCIAL CORP GROSSMAN'S INC GUITAR CENTER INC GYMBOREE CORP (THE) HANCOCK FABRICS INC HANNAFORD BROS CO HANOVER DIRECT INC HAROLD'S STORES INC HASTINGS ENTERTAINMENT HAVERTY FURNITURE COS INC HEILIG MEYERS COMPANY HERITAGE PROPANE PARTNERS HIBBETT SPORTING GOODS INC HOLIDAY RV SUPERSTORES HOME DEPOT INC HOMEBASE INC HOST MARRIOTT SERVICES CORPORATION HOT TOPIC INC IBM IMALL INC INGLES MARKETS INC INTERTAN INC INTIMATE BRANDS INC IWERKS ENTERTAINMENT INC J BAKER INC J C PENNEY COMPANY INC J JILL GROUP INC (THE) JAN BELL MARKETING INC JENNIFER CONVERTIBLES INC JO ANN STORES INC JUST FOR FEET INC KMART CORPORATION KROGER CO (THE) LAMONTS APPAREL INC LANDS END INC LECHTERS INC LESLIE'S POOLMART LILLIAN VERNON CORPORATION LIMITED INC (THE) LINENS N THINGS INC LIQUIDATION WORLD INC LITHIA MOTORS INC LITTLE SWITZERLAND INC LOEHMANN'S INC LOEWS CINEPLEX ENTERTAINMENT CORP

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 LONGS DRUG STORES CORPORATION MARCUS CORPORATION (THE) MARINEMAX INC MARY KAY COSMETICS INC. MAXIM GROUP INC (THE) MAY DEPARTMENT STORES COMPANY (THE) MEDIA ARTS GROUP INC MEN'S WEARHOUSE INC (THE) METRO GLOBAL MEDIA INC METROLOGIC INSTRUMENTS INC MICHAELS STORES INC MICROAGE INC MICROSOFT CORP MOTHERS WORK INC MULTIPLE ZONES INTERNATIONAL INC MUSICLAND STORES CORP NACCO INDUSTRIES INC NASH FINCH COMPANY NATIONAL PROPANE PARTNERS NATURAL WONDERS INC NATURE'S SUNSHINE PRODUCTS INC NCR CORPORATION NEIMAN MARCUS GROUP INC (THE) NEW WEST EYEWORKS INC NORDSTROM INC O'REILLY AUTOMOTIVE INC OFFICE DEPOT INC OFFICEMAX INC ONE PRICE CLOTHING STORES INC ONSALE INC ORCHARD SUPPLY HARDWARE OSHMAN'S SPORTING GOODS INC PACIFIC SUNWEAR OF CALIFORNIA INC PAMIDA HOLDINGS CORPORATION PAPER WAREHOUSE PARTY CITY CORPORATION PAUL HARRIS STORES INC PAYLESS CASHWAYS INC PAYLESS SHOESOURCE INC PENN TRAFFIC COMPANY (THE) PEP BOYS-MANNY MOE & JACK (THE) PERFUMANIA INC PETCO ANIMAL SUPPLIES INC PETSMART INC PIER 1 IMPORTS INC PIERCING PAGODA INC PLAY CO TOYS & ENTERTAINMENT CORP PREMIER CONCEPTS INC PRICESMART INC PROFFITTS, INC. PROTEAM.COM INC PSC INC REAL GOODS TRADING CORPORATION REGAL CINEMAS INC REGIS CORP RESTORATION HARDWARE REX STORES CORPORATION REXALL SUNDOWN INC

109 RIGHT START INC (THE) RITE AID CORPORATION ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY INC ROSS STORES INC ROUSE CO (THE) RUSH ENTERPRISES INC SAFEWAY INC SAKS HOLDINGS INC SCHOOL SPECIALTY INC SEARS ROEBUCK & CO SERVICE MERCHANDISE COMPANY INC SHARPER IMAGE CORPORATION SHERWIN WILLIAMS COMPANY (THE) SHOE PAVILION INC SHOP AT HOME INC SHOPKO STORES INC SHOPPING.COM SKYMALL INC SMART & FINAL INC SOFTWARE SPECTRUM SPIEGEL INC SPORT CHALET INC SPORTS AUTHORITY INC (THE) SPS TRANSACTION SERVICES INC STANDEX INTERNATIONAL CORP STAPLES INC STARBUCKS CORP STEIN MART INC STERLING VISION INC STROUDS INC SUCCESSORIES INC SUNBELT NURSERY GROUP INC SUNGLASS HUT INTERNATIONAL INC SUPERVALU INC SYMBOL TECHNOLOGIES INC SYMS CORP SYSTEMAX INC TALBOTS INC (THE) TANDY CORP THREE D DEPARTMENTS INC TIFFANY & CO TIME WARNER INC TJX COMPANIES INC TOSCO CORP TOTAL SYSTEM SERVICES INC TOYS R US INC TRACK N TRAIL TRAK AUTO CORPORATION TRANS WORLD ENTERTAINMENT CORP TRANS-LUX CORPORATION TRAVEL PORTS OF AMERICA TREND LINES INC U S OFFICE PRODUCTS CO ULTIMATE ELECTRONICS INC UNITED ARTISTS THEATRE CIRCUIT INC UNITED AUTO GROUP INC UNITED RETAIL GROUP INC URBAN OUTFITTERS INC

110 US PAWN INC US VISION INC VALUE AMERICA INC VALUEVISION INTERNATIONAL INC VENATOR GROUP INC VIACOM INC VIDEO UPDATE INC VISTA EYECARE INC WAL MART STORES INC WALGREEN CO WALT DISNEY COMPANY (THE) WELCOME HOME INC WEST MARINE INC WET SEAL INC (THE) WHITEHALL JEWELERS INC WHOLE FOODS MARKET INC WILD OATS MARKETS INC WILLIAMS SONOMA INC WILSONS THE LEATHER EXPERTS INC ZALE CORPORATION ZIONS COOPERATIVE MERCANTILE INSTITUTION SOUTHWEST 7-ELEVEN INC AARON RENTS INC ABERCROMBIE & FITCH CO AHOLD ALBERTO-CULVER COMPANY ALBERTSONS INC AMC ENTERTAINMENT INC AMERICA ONLINE INC AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS INC AMERICAN EXPRESS CO AMERICAN STORES COMPANY AMWAY CORPORATION ANNTAYLOR STORES CORP AUTHENTIC FITNESS CORP AUTONATION INC AUTOZONE INC AVON PRODUCTS INC BABBAGE'S ETC BARBEQUES GALORE LIMITED BARNES & NOBLE INC BATTERIES BATTERIES INC BEAUTICONTROL COSMETICS INC BEBE STORES INC BED BATH & BEYOND INC BEST BUY CO INC BESTWAY INC BIG DOG HOLDINGS INC BIOZHEM COSMECEUTICALS BLUE RHINO CORPORATION BOMBAY COMPANY INC (THE) BORDERS GROUP INC BOWLIN OUTDOOR ADVERTISING & BROOKSTONE INC BUCKLE INC (THE)

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 BUILDING MATERIALS HOLDING CORP BURLINGTON COAT FACTORY WAREHOUSE CACHE INC CALLOWAY'S NURSERY INC CARMIKE CINEMAS INC CASH AMERICA INTERNATIONAL INC CATHERINES STORES CORPORATION CATO CORP CBRL GROUP INC CD WAREHOUSE INC CELLSTAR CORPORATION CHARMING SHOPPES INC CHECKFREE CORP CHICO'S FAS INC CIRCUIT CITY GROUP CLAIRE'S STORES INC COLE NATIONAL CORPORATION COLLEGIATE PACIFIC INC COMP USA INC COMPAQ COMPUTER CORP CONSOLIDATED STORES CORP COPART INC CORPORATE EXPRESS INC CORT BUSINESS SERVICES CORPORATION COST PLUS INC COSTCO COMPANIES INC CROSS CONTINENT AUTO CROWN BOOKS CORP CROWN GROUP INC CSK AUTO INC DAYTON HUDSON CORPORATION DEB SHOPS INC DELL COMPUTER CORPORATION DESIGNS INC DILLARD'S INC DISCOUNT AUTO PARTS INC DOLLAR GENERAL CORPORATION DOLLAR TREE STORES INC DRESS BARN INC (THE) DRUG EMPORIUM INC DUCKWALL ALCO STORES INC E4L INC EDISON BROTHERS STORES INC ELCOM INTERNATIONAL INC ELECTRONICS BOUTIQUE HOLDINGS CORP. EQUIFAX INC EVANS INC EVANS SYSTEMS INC EZCORP INC FACTORY 2 U STORES INC FACTORY CARD OUTLET CORPORATION FAIR ISAAC AND COMPANY INC FAMILY DOLLAR STORES INC FEDERAL EXPRESS CORP FEDERATED DEPARTMENT STORES INC FERRELLGAS PARTNERS L P FFP PARTNERS LP FINISH LINE INC (THE)

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 FINLAY ENTERPRISES INC FIRST CASH INC FIRST DATA CORP FLEMING COMPANIES INC FLORAFAX INTERNATIONAL INC FLORSHEIM GROUP INC FOOTSTAR INC FRANKLIN COVEY CO FRIEDMAN'S INC FUNCO INC GADZOOKS INC GALLERY OF HISTORY INC GANTOS INC GAP INC GARDEN BOTANIKA INC GARDEN RIDGE CORPORATION GATEWAY INC GC COMPANIES INC GENERAL NUTRITION COMPANIES INC GENESCO INC GLACIER WATER SERVICES INC GLOBE BUSINESS RESOURCES INC GLOBENET INTERNATIONAL GREAT TRAIN STORE COMPANY (THE) GREEN TREE FINANCIAL CORP GROUP 1 AUTOMOTIVE INC GUITAR CENTER INC GYMBOREE CORP (THE) HANCOCK FABRICS INC HASTINGS ENTERTAINMENT HAVERTY FURNITURE COS INC HECHINGER CO HEILIG MEYERS COMPANY HERITAGE PROPANE PARTNERS HOLIDAY RV SUPERSTORES HOME DEPOT INC HOMEBASE INC HOMELAND HOLDING CORP HORIZON PHARMACIES INC HOST MARRIOTT SERVICES CORPORATION HOT TOPIC INC INSIGHT ENTERPRISES INC INTERNATIONAL CUTLERY LTD INTERTAN INC INTIMATE BRANDS INC J BAKER INC J C PENNEY COMPANY INC JAN BELL MARKETING INC JENNIFER CONVERTIBLES INC JO ANN STORES INC JOS A BANK CLOTHIERS INC JUST FOR FEET INC K&G MEN'S CENTER INC KMART CORPORATION KROGER CO (THE) LECHTERS INC LESLIE'S POOLMART LET'S TALK CELL & WIRE

111 LIMITED INC (THE) LINENS N THINGS INC LOEHMANN'S INC LOEWS CINEPLEX ENTERTAINMENT CORP LOT$OFF CORPORATION LOWE'S COS INC MARINEMAX INC MARY KAY COSMETICS INC. MAXIM GROUP INC (THE) MAY DEPARTMENT STORES COMPANY (THE) MEN'S WEARHOUSE INC (THE) MICHAELS STORES INC MICROAGE INC MICROSOFT CORP MOTHERS WORK INC MOVIE GALLERY INC MUSICLAND STORES CORP NACCO INDUSTRIES INC NASH FINCH COMPANY NATURAL WONDERS INC NATURE'S SUNSHINE PRODUCTS INC NCR CORPORATION NEIMAN MARCUS GROUP INC (THE) NEW WEST EYEWORKS INC NOODLE KIDOODLE INC NORDSTROM INC O'REILLY AUTOMOTIVE INC OFFICE DEPOT INC OFFICEMAX INC ONE PRICE CLOTHING STORES INC OSHMAN'S SPORTING GOODS INC PACIFIC SUNWEAR OF CALIFORNIA INC PAPER WAREHOUSE PARTY CITY CORPORATION PAUL HARRIS STORES INC PAWNMART INC PAYLESS CASHWAYS INC PAYLESS SHOESOURCE INC PEP BOYS-MANNY MOE & JACK (THE) PERFUMANIA INC PETCO ANIMAL SUPPLIES INC PETSMART INC PHAR-MOR, INC. PIER 1 IMPORTS INC PIERCING PAGODA INC PREMIER CONCEPTS INC PROFFITTS, INC. PSC INC REEDS JEWELERS INC REGAL CINEMAS INC REGIS CORP RESTORATION HARDWARE REX STORES CORPORATION RITE AID CORPORATION RIVERSIDE GROUP INC ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY INC ROSS STORES INC ROUSE CO (THE)

112 RUSH ENTERPRISES INC S & K FAMOUS BRANDS INC SAFEWAY INC SAKS HOLDINGS INC SAMUELS JEWELERS INC SEARS ROEBUCK & CO SERVICE MERCHANDISE COMPANY INC SHARPER IMAGE CORPORATION SHERWIN WILLIAMS COMPANY (THE) SHOP AT HOME INC SMART & FINAL INC SOFTWARE SPECTRUM SOLO SERVE CORPORATION SPIEGEL INC SPORT SUPPLY GROUP INC SPORTS AUTHORITY INC (THE) STANDEX INTERNATIONAL CORP STAPLES INC STARBUCKS CORP STEIN MART INC STERLING COMMERCE INC STERLING VISION INC SUCCESSORIES INC SUNBELT NURSERY GROUP INC SUNGLASS HUT INTERNATIONAL INC SUPERVALU INC SYMBOL TECHNOLOGIES INC SYMS CORP TALBOTS INC (THE) TANDY CORP THREE D DEPARTMENTS INC TIFFANY & CO TIME WARNER INC TJX COMPANIES INC TOSCO CORP TOYS R US INC TRACK N TRAIL TRACTOR SUPPLY COMPANY TRANS WORLD ENTERTAINMENT CORP TRANS-LUX CORPORATION TRAVIS BOAT & MOTORS INC TWEETER HOME ENTERTAINMENT U S OFFICE PRODUCTS CO UGLY DUCKLING CORPORATION ULTIMATE ELECTRONICS INC UNITED ARTISTS THEATRE CIRCUIT INC UNITED AUTO GROUP INC UNITED RETAIL GROUP INC URBAN OUTFITTERS INC US VISION INC VENATOR GROUP INC VIACOM INC VIDEO UPDATE INC VISTA EYECARE INC WAL MART STORES INC WALGREEN CO WALT DISNEY COMPANY (THE) WELCOME HOME INC

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 WEST MARINE INC WET SEAL INC (THE) WHITEHALL JEWELERS INC WHOLE FOODS MARKET INC WICKES INC WILD OATS MARKETS INC WILLIAMS SONOMA INC WILSONS THE LEATHER EXPERTS INC WORLD OF SCIENCE ZALE CORPORATION ZIONS COOPERATIVE MERCANTILE INSTITUTION MIDWEST 7-ELEVEN INC ABERCROMBIE & FITCH CO AHOLD ALBERTO-CULVER COMPANY ALBERTSONS INC AMC ENTERTAINMENT INC AMERICA ONLINE INC AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS INC AMERICAN EXPRESS CO AMERICAN STORES COMPANY AMWAY CORPORATION ANNTAYLOR STORES CORP AUDIO KING CORPORATION AUTHENTIC FITNESS CORP AUTONATION INC AUTOZONE INC AVON PRODUCTS INC BABBAGE'S ETC BARBEQUES GALORE LIMITED BARNES & NOBLE INC BEAUTICONTROL COSMETICS INC BEBE STORES INC BED BATH & BEYOND INC BEST BUY CO INC BIG DOG HOLDINGS INC BIG ENTERTAINMENT INC BLUE RHINO CORPORATION BOMBAY COMPANY INC (THE) BOOKS A MILLION INC BORDERS GROUP INC BRAUN'S FASHIONS CORPORATION BROOKSTONE INC BUCKLE INC (THE) BURLINGTON COAT FACTORY WAREHOUSE CACHE INC CARMAX GROUP CARMIKE CINEMAS INC CASEY'S GENERAL STORES INC CASH AMERICA INTERNATIONAL INC CATHERINES STORES CORPORATION CBRL GROUP INC CD WAREHOUSE INC CDW COMPUTER CENTERS INC CELLSTAR CORPORATION

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 CENTRAL TRACTOR FARM & COUNTRY INC CHARMING SHOPPES INC CHECKFREE CORP CHICO'S FAS INC CIRCUIT CITY GROUP CLAIRE'S STORES INC COLDWATER CREEK INC COLE NATIONAL CORPORATION COMP USA INC CONCORD EFS INC CONSOLIDATED STORES CORP COPART INC CORNERSTONE PROPANE PARTNERS LP CORPORATE EXPRESS INC CORT BUSINESS SERVICES CORPORATION COSMETIC CENTER INC (THE) COST PLUS INC CROWN BOOKS CORP CUMBERLAND FARMS INC CVS CORPORATION DAIRY MART CONVENIENCE STORES INC DAMARK INTERNATIONAL INC DAYTON HUDSON CORPORATION DEB SHOPS INC DELL COMPUTER CORPORATION DESIGNS INC DIGITAL RIVER INC DILLARD'S INC DOLLAR GENERAL CORPORATION DOLLAR TREE STORES INC DRESS BARN INC (THE) DRUG EMPORIUM INC DUCKWALL ALCO STORES INC EAGLE FOOD CENTERS INC EDISON BROTHERS STORES INC EGGHEAD.COM INC ELCOM INTERNATIONAL INC ELDER BEERMAN STORES CORP (THE) ELECTRONICS BOUTIQUE HOLDINGS CORP. ELEGANT ILLUSIONS INC ENESCO GROUP INC EQUIFAX INC EVANS INC EZCORP INC FACTORY CARD OUTLET CORPORATION FAIR ISAAC AND COMPANY INC FAMILY DOLLAR STORES INC FEDERAL EXPRESS CORP FEDERATED DEPARTMENT STORES INC FERRELLGAS PARTNERS L P FFP PARTNERS LP FILENE'S BASEMENT CORP FINGERHUT COMPANIES INC FINISH LINE INC (THE) FINLAY ENTERPRISES INC FIRST CASH INC FIRST DATA CORP FLEMING COMPANIES INC

113 FLORSHEIM GROUP INC FOOD LION INC FOOTSTAR INC FRANKLIN COVEY CO FRED'S INC FRIEDMAN'S INC FUNCO INC GADZOOKS INC GANTOS INC GAP INC GARDEN BOTANIKA INC GARDEN RIDGE CORPORATION GART SPORTS COMPANY GATEWAY INC GC COMPANIES INC GENERAL NUTRITION COMPANIES INC GENESCO INC GLOBE BUSINESS RESOURCES INC GOODY'S FAMILY CLOTHING INC GREAT ATLANTIC & PACIFIC TEA COMPANY GREAT TRAIN STORE COMPANY (THE) GREEN TREE FINANCIAL CORP GROSSMAN'S INC GUITAR CENTER INC GYMBOREE CORP (THE) HANCOCK FABRICS INC HANOVER DIRECT INC HAROLD'S STORES INC HASTINGS ENTERTAINMENT HEALTHRITE INC HECHINGER CO HEILIG MEYERS COMPANY HERITAGE PROPANE PARTNERS HIBBETT SPORTING GOODS INC HILLS STORES COMPANY HOME DEPOT INC HOMELAND HOLDING CORP HOST MARRIOTT SERVICES CORPORATION HOT TOPIC INC INTERTAN INC INTIMATE BRANDS INC J BAKER INC J C PENNEY COMPANY INC JACOBSON STORES INC JAN BELL MARKETING INC JENNIFER CONVERTIBLES INC JG INDUSTRIES INC JO ANN STORES INC JOS A BANK CLOTHIERS INC JUST FOR FEET INC K&G MEN'S CENTER INC KIDS STUFF INC KMART CORPORATION KOHL'S CORP KROGER CO (THE) LAMONTS APPAREL INC LANDS END INC LECHTERS INC

114 LESLIE'S POOLMART LIMITED INC (THE) LINENS N THINGS INC LIQUIDATION WORLD INC LOEHMANN'S INC LOEWS CINEPLEX ENTERTAINMENT CORP LOWE'S COS INC MARCUS CORPORATION (THE) MARINEMAX INC MARSH SUPERMARKETS INC MARY KAY COSMETICS INC. MAXIM GROUP INC (THE) MAY DEPARTMENT STORES COMPANY (THE) MAZEL STORES INC MEN'S WEARHOUSE INC (THE) MICHAELS STORES INC MICROAGE INC MICROSOFT CORP MOTHERS WORK INC MOVIE GALLERY INC MULTIPLE ZONES INTERNATIONAL INC MUSICLAND STORES CORP NACCO INDUSTRIES INC NASH FINCH COMPANY NATIONAL PROPANE PARTNERS NATIONAL RECORD MART INC NATURAL WONDERS INC NATURE'S SUNSHINE PRODUCTS INC NCR CORPORATION NEIMAN MARCUS GROUP INC (THE) NEW WEST EYEWORKS INC NOODLE KIDOODLE INC NORDSTROM INC O'REILLY AUTOMOTIVE INC OFFICE DEPOT INC OFFICEMAX INC ONE PRICE CLOTHING STORES INC OSHMAN'S SPORTING GOODS INC PACIFIC SUNWEAR OF CALIFORNIA INC PAMIDA HOLDINGS CORPORATION PANTRY INC (THE) PAPER WAREHOUSE PARTY CITY CORPORATION PAUL HARRIS STORES INC PAYLESS CASHWAYS INC PAYLESS SHOESOURCE INC PC CONNECTION INC PEAPOD INC PENN TRAFFIC COMPANY (THE) PEP BOYS-MANNY MOE & JACK (THE) PERFUMANIA INC PETCO ANIMAL SUPPLIES INC PETROLEUM HEAT & POWER CO PETSMART INC PHAR-MOR, INC. PIER 1 IMPORTS INC PIERCING PAGODA INC PREMIER CONCEPTS INC

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 PROFFITTS, INC. PSC INC REEDS JEWELERS INC REGAL CINEMAS INC REGIS CORP RESTORATION HARDWARE REX STORES CORPORATION RIGHT START INC (THE) RITE AID CORPORATION RIVERSIDE GROUP INC ROBERDS INC ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY INC ROUSE CO (THE) S & K FAMOUS BRANDS INC SAFEWAY INC SAKS HOLDINGS INC SAMUELS JEWELERS INC SCHOOL SPECIALTY INC SCHULTZ SAV O STORES INC SEARS ROEBUCK & CO SEAWAY FOOD TOWN INC SERVICE MERCHANDISE COMPANY INC SHARPER IMAGE CORPORATION SHERWIN WILLIAMS COMPANY (THE) SHOE CARNIVAL INC SHOPKO STORES INC SOFTWARE SPECTRUM SONIC AUTOMOTIVE INC SPIEGEL INC SPORTS AUTHORITY INC (THE) SPORTSMAN'S GUIDE INC THE SPS TRANSACTION SERVICES INC STANDEX INTERNATIONAL CORP STAPLES INC STARBUCKS CORP STEIN MART INC STERLING COMMERCE INC STERLING VISION INC STROUDS INC SUCCESSORIES INC SUNGLASS HUT INTERNATIONAL INC SUPERVALU INC SYMBOL TECHNOLOGIES INC SYMS CORP SYSTEMAX INC TALBOTS INC (THE) TANDY CORP TIFFANY & CO TIME WARNER INC TJX COMPANIES INC TOYS R US INC TRACK N TRAIL TRACTOR SUPPLY COMPANY TRAK AUTO CORPORATION TRANS WORLD ENTERTAINMENT CORP TRANS-LUX CORPORATION TRAVEL PORTS OF AMERICA U S OFFICE PRODUCTS CO

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 UBID INC ULTIMATE ELECTRONICS INC UNITED ARTISTS THEATRE CIRCUIT INC UNITED AUTO GROUP INC UNITED RETAIL GROUP INC URBAN OUTFITTERS INC US VISION INC VALUE CITY DEPARTMENT STORES INC VALUEVISION INTERNATIONAL INC VENATOR GROUP INC VIACOM INC VIDEO UPDATE INC VISTA EYECARE INC WAL MART STORES INC WALGREEN CO WALT DISNEY COMPANY (THE) WEIS MARKETS INC WELCOME HOME INC WEST MARINE INC WET SEAL INC (THE) WHITEHALL JEWELERS INC WHOLE FOODS MARKET INC WICKES INC WILD OATS MARKETS INC WILLIAMS SONOMA INC WILSONS THE LEATHER EXPERTS INC WINN DIXIE STORES INC WOLOHAN LUMBER CO WORLD OF SCIENCE ZALE CORPORATION NORTHEAST 7-ELEVEN INC A C MOORE ARTS & CRAFTS AARON RENTS INC ABERCROMBIE & FITCH CO AHOLD ALBERTO-CULVER COMPANY AMC ENTERTAINMENT INC AMERICA ONLINE INC AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS INC AMERICAN EXPRESS CO AMERICAN STORES COMPANY AMES DEPARTMENT STORES INC AMWAY CORPORATION ANNTAYLOR STORES CORP ARTISTIC GREETINGS INCORPORATED ATEC GROUP INC AUDIO BOOK CLUB INC AUTHENTIC FITNESS CORP AUTONATION INC AUTOZONE INC AVON PRODUCTS INC BABBAGE'S ETC BARBEQUES GALORE LIMITED BARNES & NOBLE INC BATTERIES BATTERIES INC

115 BEAUTICONTROL COSMETICS INC BEBE STORES INC BED BATH & BEYOND INC BEST BUY CO INC BESTWAY INC BIG DOG HOLDINGS INC BIG ENTERTAINMENT INC BJ'S WHOLESALE CLUB INC BLAIR CORPORATION BLUE RHINO CORPORATION BOMBAY COMPANY INC (THE) BON-TON STORES INC (THE) BOOKS A MILLION INC BORDERS GROUP INC BRADLEES INC BROOKSTONE INC BRYLANE INC BURLINGTON COAT FACTORY WAREHOUSE CACHE INC CARMAX GROUP CARMIKE CINEMAS INC CASH AMERICA INTERNATIONAL INC CATHERINES STORES CORPORATION CATO CORP CD WAREHOUSE INC CDNOW INC CELLSTAR CORPORATION CENTRAL TRACTOR FARM & COUNTRY INC CHARMING SHOPPES INC CHECKFREE CORP CHICO'S FAS INC CHILDREN'S PLACE (THE) CIRCUIT CITY GROUP CLAIRE'S STORES INC COLDWATER CREEK INC COLE NATIONAL CORPORATION COMP USA INC CONCORD EFS INC CONSOLIDATED STORES CORP COPART INC CORPORATE EXPRESS INC CORT BUSINESS SERVICES CORPORATION COSMETIC CENTER INC (THE) COSTCO COMPANIES INC CROWN BOOKS CORP CUMBERLAND FARMS INC CVS CORPORATION CYBER SHOP INTERNATIONAL INC CYBERIAN OUTPOST INC D H MARKETING & CONSULTING DAIRY MART CONVENIENCE STORES INC DAYTON HUDSON CORPORATION DEB SHOPS INC DELIA'S INC DELL COMPUTER CORPORATION DESIGNS INC DILLARD'S INC DIPLOMAT DIRECT MARKETING

116 DISCOUNT AUTO PARTS INC DOLLAR GENERAL CORPORATION DOLLAR TREE STORES INC DRESS BARN INC (THE) DRUG EMPORIUM INC DUANE READE INC E4L INC EDISON BROTHERS STORES INC ELCOM INTERNATIONAL INC ELDER BEERMAN STORES CORP (THE) ELECTRONICS BOUTIQUE HOLDINGS CORP. EQUIFAX INC EVANS INC FACTORY CARD OUTLET CORPORATION FAIR ISAAC AND COMPANY INC FAMILY DOLLAR STORES INC FEDERAL EXPRESS CORP FEDERATED DEPARTMENT STORES INC FILENE'S BASEMENT CORP FINISH LINE INC (THE) FINLAY ENTERPRISES INC FIRST CASH INC FIRST DATA CORP FLEMING COMPANIES INC FLORSHEIM GROUP INC FOOD LION INC FOODARAMA SUPERMARKETS, INC. FOOTSTAR INC FRANKLIN COVEY CO FRED'S INC FRIEDMAN'S INC FUNCO INC GADZOOKS INC GANTOS INC GAP INC GARDEN BOTANIKA INC GARDEN RIDGE CORPORATION GATEWAY INC GC COMPANIES INC GENERAL NUTRITION COMPANIES INC GENESCO INC GENOVESE DRUG STORES INC GETTY PETROLEUM MARKETING GOODY'S FAMILY CLOTHING INC GRAND UNION COMPANY (THE) GREAT ATLANTIC & PACIFIC TEA COMPANY INC GREAT TRAIN STORE COMPANY (THE) GREEN TREE FINANCIAL CORP GRIFFIN LAND & NURSERIES GRISTEDE'S SLOAN'S INC GROSSMAN'S INC GUITAR CENTER INC GYMBOREE CORP (THE) HANCOCK FABRICS INC HANNAFORD BROS CO HANOVER DIRECT INC HAROLD'S STORES INC HARVEY ELECTRONICS INC

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 HAVERTY FURNITURE COS INC HEALTHRITE INC HEARX LTD HECHINGER CO HEILIG MEYERS COMPANY HILLS STORES COMPANY HOME DEPOT INC HOSIERY CORPORATION OF AMERICA, INC. HOST MARRIOTT SERVICES CORPORATION HOT TOPIC INC IBM INGLES MARKETS INC INTERNATIONAL CUTLERY LTD INTERTAN INC INTIMATE BRANDS INC J BAKER INC J C PENNEY COMPANY INC J JILL GROUP INC (THE) JAN BELL MARKETING INC JENNIFER CONVERTIBLES INC JO ANN STORES INC JOS A BANK CLOTHIERS INC JUST FOR FEET INC K&G MEN'S CENTER INC KMART CORPORATION KOHL'S CORP KROGER CO (THE) LECHTERS INC LESLIE'S POOLMART LILLIAN VERNON CORPORATION LIMITED INC (THE) LINENS N THINGS INC LOEHMANN'S INC LOEWS CINEPLEX ENTERTAINMENT CORP LOWE'S COS INC MARY KAY COSMETICS INC. MAXIM GROUP INC (THE) MAY DEPARTMENT STORES COMPANY (THE) MAZEL STORES INC MEN'S WEARHOUSE INC (THE) METRO GLOBAL MEDIA INC METROLOGIC INSTRUMENTS INC MICHAELS STORES INC MICRO WAREHOUSE INC MICROAGE INC MICROSOFT CORP MICROTOUCH SYSTEMS INC MOTHERS WORK INC MOVIE GALLERY INC MUSICLAND STORES CORP N2K INC NACCO INDUSTRIES INC NASH FINCH COMPANY NATIONAL PROPANE PARTNERS NATIONAL RECORD MART INC NATURAL WONDERS INC NATURE'S SUNSHINE PRODUCTS INC NCR CORPORATION

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 NEIMAN MARCUS GROUP INC (THE) NOODLE KIDOODLE INC NORDSTROM INC OFFICE DEPOT INC OFFICEMAX INC ONE PRICE CLOTHING STORES INC OSHMAN'S SPORTING GOODS INC PACIFIC SUNWEAR OF CALIFORNIA INC PANTRY INC (THE) PAPER WAREHOUSE PARTY CITY CORPORATION PAUL HARRIS STORES INC PAYLESS CASHWAYS INC PAYLESS SHOESOURCE INC PC CONNECTION INC PENN TRAFFIC COMPANY (THE) PEP BOYS-MANNY MOE & JACK (THE) PERFUMANIA INC PETCO ANIMAL SUPPLIES INC PETROLEUM HEAT & POWER CO PETSMART INC PHAR-MOR, INC. PHARMHOUSE CORP PIER 1 IMPORTS INC PIERCING PAGODA INC PREMIER CONCEPTS INC PROFFITTS, INC. PROTEAM.COM INC PSC INC RAG SHOPS INC REEDS JEWELERS INC REGAL CINEMAS INC REGIS CORP RESTORATION HARDWARE REX STORES CORPORATION RICHFOOD HOLDINGS INC RIGHT START INC (THE) RITE AID CORPORATION RIVERSIDE GROUP INC ROOM PLUS INC ROSS STORES INC ROUSE CO (THE) RUDDICK CORPORATION S & K FAMOUS BRANDS INC SAFEWAY INC SAKS HOLDINGS INC SCHOOL SPECIALTY INC SEARS ROEBUCK & CO SERVICE MERCHANDISE COMPANY INC SHARPER IMAGE CORPORATION SHERWIN WILLIAMS COMPANY (THE) SHOE CARNIVAL INC SHOP AT HOME INC SOFTWARE SPECTRUM SONIC AUTOMOTIVE INC SPECIALITY CATALOG CORP SPIEGEL INC SPORTS AUTHORITY INC (THE)

117 STANDEX INTERNATIONAL CORP STAPLES INC STARBUCKS CORP STEIN MART INC STERLING VISION INC SUCCESSORIES INC SUNGLASS HUT INTERNATIONAL INC SUPERVALU INC SYMBOL TECHNOLOGIES INC SYMS CORP SYNERGY BRANDS INC SYSTEMAX INC TALBOTS INC (THE) TANDY CORP THREE D DEPARTMENTS INC TIFFANY & CO TIME WARNER INC TJX COMPANIES INC TODAY'S MAN INC TOPS APPLIANCE CITY INC TOSCO CORP TOYS R US INC TRACK N TRAIL TRACTOR SUPPLY COMPANY TRAK AUTO CORPORATION TRANS WORLD ENTERTAINMENT CORP TRANS-LUX CORPORATION TRAVEL PORTS OF AMERICA TREND LINES INC TWEETER HOME ENTERTAINMENT U S OFFICE PRODUCTS CO UNI MARTS INC UNITED ARTISTS THEATRE CIRCUIT INC UNITED AUTO GROUP INC UNITED RETAIL GROUP INC URBAN OUTFITTERS INC US VISION INC VALUE CITY DEPARTMENT STORES INC VALUEVISION INTERNATIONAL INC VENATOR GROUP INC VIACOM INC VIDEO UPDATE INC VILLAGE SUPER MARKET INC VISTA EYECARE INC WAL MART STORES INC WALGREEN CO WALT DISNEY COMPANY (THE) WEIS MARKETS INC WELCOME HOME INC WEST MARINE INC WESTERN BEEF INC WET SEAL INC (THE) WHITEHALL JEWELERS INC WHOLE FOODS MARKET INC WICKES INC WILD OATS MARKETS INC WILLIAMS SONOMA INC WILSONS THE LEATHER EXPERTS INC

118 WINN DIXIE STORES INC WORLD OF SCIENCE ZALE CORPORATION

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 SOUTHEAST 7-ELEVEN INC AARON RENTS INC ABERCROMBIE & FITCH CO AHOLD ALBERTO-CULVER COMPANY ALBERTSONS INC AMC ENTERTAINMENT INC AMERICA ONLINE INC AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS INC AMERICAN EXPRESS CO AMWAY CORPORATION ANNTAYLOR STORES CORP AUDIO BOOK CLUB INC AUTHENTIC FITNESS CORP AUTONATION INC AUTOZONE INC AVON PRODUCTS INC BABBAGE'S ETC BARBEQUES GALORE LIMITED BARNES & NOBLE INC BEAUTICONTROL COSMETICS INC BEBE STORES INC BED BATH & BEYOND INC BEST BUY CO INC BESTWAY INC BIG DOG HOLDINGS INC BIG ENTERTAINMENT INC BLUE RHINO CORPORATION BOMBAY COMPANY INC (THE) BON-TON STORES INC (THE) BOOKS A MILLION INC BORDERS GROUP INC BRAUN'S FASHIONS CORPORATION BROOKSTONE INC BRUNO'S INC BUCKLE INC (THE) BURLINGTON COAT FACTORY WAREHOUSE CACHE INC CARMAX GROUP CARMIKE CINEMAS INC CASH AMERICA INTERNATIONAL INC CATHERINES STORES CORPORATION CATO CORP CBRL GROUP INC CD WAREHOUSE INC CELLSTAR CORPORATION CENTRAL TRACTOR FARM & COUNTRY INC CHARMING SHOPPES INC CHICO'S FAS INC CHILDREN'S PLACE (THE) CIRCUIT CITY GROUP CLAIRE'S STORES INC COLE NATIONAL CORPORATION COMP USA INC CONCORD EFS INC CONSOLIDATED STORES CORP

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 COPART INC CORPORATE EXPRESS INC CORT BUSINESS SERVICES CORPORATION COSMETIC CENTER INC (THE) COSTCO COMPANIES INC CREATIVE COMPUTERS INC CROWN BOOKS CORP CUMBERLAND FARMS INC CVS CORPORATION DAIRY MART CONVENIENCE STORES INC DAYTON HUDSON CORPORATION DEB SHOPS INC DELL COMPUTER CORPORATION DESIGNS INC DILLARD'S INC DISCOUNT AUTO PARTS INC DOLLAR GENERAL CORPORATION DOLLAR TREE STORES INC DRESS BARN INC (THE) DRUG EMPORIUM INC DUCKWALL ALCO STORES INC EDISON BROTHERS STORES INC ELCOM INTERNATIONAL INC ELECTRONIC CLEARING HOUSE INC ELECTRONICS BOUTIQUE HOLDINGS CORP. EQUIFAX INC EZCORP INC FACTORY CARD OUTLET CORPORATION FAIR ISAAC AND COMPANY INC FAMILY DOLLAR STORES INC FATBRAIN.COM INC FEDERAL EXPRESS CORP FEDERATED DEPARTMENT STORES INC FINISH LINE INC (THE) FINLAY ENTERPRISES INC FIRST DATA CORP FLANIGAN'S ENTERPRISES INC FLEMING COMPANIES INC FLORAFAX INTERNATIONAL INC FLORSHEIM GROUP INC FOOD LION INC FOOTSTAR INC FRANKLIN COVEY CO FRED'S INC FRIEDMAN'S INC GADZOOKS INC GANTOS INC GAP INC GARDEN BOTANIKA INC GARDEN RIDGE CORPORATION GATEWAY INC GC COMPANIES INC GENERAL NUTRITION COMPANIES INC GENESCO INC GETTY PETROLEUM MARKETING GLACIER WATER SERVICES INC GOODY'S FAMILY CLOTHING INC GREAT ATLANTIC & PACIFIC TEA COMPANY INC

119 GREAT TRAIN STORE COMPANY (THE) GREEN TREE FINANCIAL CORP GRIFFIN LAND & NURSERIES GUITAR CENTER INC GYMBOREE CORP (THE) HANCOCK FABRICS INC HANNAFORD BROS CO HAROLD'S STORES INC HARRY'S FARMERS MARKET INC HAVERTY FURNITURE COS INC HEARX LTD HECHINGER CO HEILIG MEYERS COMPANY HIBBETT SPORTING GOODS INC HILLS STORES COMPANY HOLIDAY RV SUPERSTORES HOME DEPOT INC HOST MARRIOTT SERVICES CORPORATION INGLES MARKETS INC INTERTAN INC INTIMATE BRANDS INC IWERKS ENTERTAINMENT INC J BAKER INC J C PENNEY COMPANY INC JACOBSON STORES INC JAN BELL MARKETING INC JENNIFER CONVERTIBLES INC JO ANN STORES INC JOS A BANK CLOTHIERS INC JUST FOR FEET INC K&G MEN'S CENTER INC KMART CORPORATION KROGER CO (THE) LECHTERS INC LESLIE'S POOLMART LIMITED INC (THE) LINENS N THINGS INC LOEHMANN'S INC LOEWS CINEPLEX ENTERTAINMENT CORP LOT$OFF CORPORATION LOWE'S COS INC MARINEMAX INC MARY KAY COSMETICS INC. MAXIM GROUP INC (THE) MAY DEPARTMENT STORES COMPANY (THE) MEN'S WEARHOUSE INC (THE) MICHAELS STORES INC MICROAGE INC MICROSOFT CORP MID STATES PLC MOTHERS WORK INC MOVIE GALLERY INC MUSICLAND STORES CORP NACCO INDUSTRIES INC NATIONAL HOME CENTERS INC NATIONAL PROPANE PARTNERS NATIONAL RECORD MART INC NATURAL WONDERS INC

120 NATURE'S SUNSHINE PRODUCTS INC NCR CORPORATION NEIMAN MARCUS GROUP INC (THE) NOODLE KIDOODLE INC NORDSTROM INC O'REILLY AUTOMOTIVE INC OFFICE DEPOT INC OFFICEMAX INC ONE PRICE CLOTHING STORES INC OSHMAN'S SPORTING GOODS INC PACIFIC SUNWEAR OF CALIFORNIA INC PAMIDA HOLDINGS CORPORATION PANTRY INC (THE) PAPER WAREHOUSE PARTY CITY CORPORATION PAUL HARRIS STORES INC PAWNMART INC PAYLESS CASHWAYS INC PAYLESS SHOESOURCE INC PEP BOYS-MANNY MOE & JACK (THE) PERFUMANIA INC PETCO ANIMAL SUPPLIES INC PETSMART INC PHAR-MOR, INC. PIER 1 IMPORTS INC PIERCING PAGODA INC PREMIER CONCEPTS INC PROFFITTS, INC. PROTEAM.COM INC PSC INC PUBLIX SUPER MARKETS INC PUEBLO XTRA INTERNATIONAL, INC. RAG SHOPS INC REEDS JEWELERS INC REGAL CINEMAS INC REGIS CORP RESTORATION HARDWARE REX STORES CORPORATION REXALL SUNDOWN INC RICHFOOD HOLDINGS INC RIGHT START INC (THE) RITE AID CORPORATION RIVERSIDE GROUP INC ROBERDS INC ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY INC ROSS STORES INC ROUSE CO (THE) RUDDICK CORPORATION S & K FAMOUS BRANDS INC SAKS HOLDINGS INC SAMUELS JEWELERS INC SCHOOL SPECIALTY INC SEARS ROEBUCK & CO SERVICE MERCHANDISE COMPANY INC SHARPER IMAGE CORPORATION SHERWIN WILLIAMS COMPANY (THE) SHOE CARNIVAL INC SHOP AT HOME INC

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 SMART & FINAL INC SMART CHOICE AUTOMOTIVE GROUP SOFTWARE SPECTRUM SOLO SERVE CORPORATION SONIC AUTOMOTIVE INC SOUND ADVICE INC SPIEGEL INC SPORT SUPPLY GROUP INC SPORTS AUTHORITY INC (THE) SPS TRANSACTION SERVICES INC STANDEX INTERNATIONAL CORP STAPLES INC STARBUCKS CORP STEIN MART INC STERLING VISION INC SUCCESSORIES INC SUNGLASS HUT INTERNATIONAL INC SUPERVALU INC SYMBOL TECHNOLOGIES INC SYMS CORP SYSTEMAX INC TALBOTS INC (THE) TANDY CORP TIFFANY & CO TIME WARNER INC TJX COMPANIES INC TOSCO CORP TOTAL SYSTEM SERVICES INC TOYS R US INC TRACK N TRAIL TRACTOR SUPPLY COMPANY TRANS WORLD ENTERTAINMENT CORP TRANS-LUX CORPORATION TRAVEL PORTS OF AMERICA TRAVIS BOAT & MOTORS INC TWEETER HOME ENTERTAINMENT U S OFFICE PRODUCTS CO UGLY DUCKLING CORPORATION UNITED ARTISTS THEATRE CIRCUIT INC UNITED AUTO GROUP INC UNITED RETAIL GROUP INC US VISION INC VALUE CITY DEPARTMENT STORES INC VENATOR GROUP INC VIACOM INC VIDEO UPDATE INC VISTA EYECARE INC WAL MART STORES INC WALGREEN CO WALT DISNEY COMPANY (THE) WEIS MARKETS INC WELCOME HOME INC WEST MARINE INC WET SEAL INC (THE) WHITEHALL JEWELERS INC WHOLE FOODS MARKET INC WILD OATS MARKETS INC WILLIAMS SONOMA INC

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 WILSONS THE LEATHER EXPERTS INC WINN DIXIE STORES INC WORLD OF SCIENCE ZALE CORPORATION

INDEX BY FIRMS WITH INTERNATIONAL OPERATIONS 7-ELEVEN INC AHOLD ALBERTO-CULVER COMPANY AMC ENTERTAINMENT INC AMERICA ONLINE INC AMERICAN EXPRESS CO AMWAY ASIA PACIFIC LTD AMWAY CORPORATION AUTHENTIC FITNESS CORP AUTONATION INC AVON PRODUCTS INC BABBAGE'S ETC BARBEQUES GALORE LIMITED BEAUTICONTROL COSMETICS INC BEBE STORES INC BIG DOG HOLDINGS INC BLUE RHINO CORPORATION BOMBAY COMPANY INC (THE) BORDERS GROUP INC CASH AMERICA INTERNATIONAL INC CD WAREHOUSE INC CELLSTAR CORPORATION CINEMASTAR LUXURY THEATERS INC CLAIRE'S STORES INC COLE NATIONAL CORPORATION COLES MYER LTD COMP USA INC COMPAQ COMPUTER CORP CONSOLIDATED STORES CORP CORPORATE EXPRESS INC COST U LESS INC COSTCO COMPANIES INC DELIA'S INC DELL COMPUTER CORPORATION E4L INC EDISON BROTHERS STORES INC ELCOM INTERNATIONAL INC ELECTRONICS BOUTIQUE HOLDINGS CORP. EQUIFAX INC FAIR ISAAC AND COMPANY INC FEDERAL EXPRESS CORP FINLAY ENTERPRISES INC FIRST DATA CORP FLORSHEIM GROUP INC FOOTSTAR INC

121 FRANKLIN COVEY CO GAP INC GATEWAY INC GC COMPANIES INC GENERAL NUTRITION COMPANIES INC GENESCO INC GLOBENET INTERNATIONAL GREAT ATLANTIC & PACIFIC TEA COMPANY INC GYMBOREE CORP (THE) HANOVER DIRECT INC HEILIG MEYERS COMPANY HOME DEPOT INC HOSIERY CORPORATION OF AMERICA, INC. HOST MARRIOTT SERVICES CORPORATION IBM INTERTAN INC INTIMATE BRANDS INC ITO YOKADO CO LTD IWERKS ENTERTAINMENT INC J C PENNEY COMPANY INC KMART CORPORATION LANDS END INC LET'S TALK CELL & WIRE LIMITED INC (THE) LIQUIDATION WORLD INC LITTLE SWITZERLAND INC LOEWS CINEPLEX ENTERTAINMENT CORP MARY KAY COSMETICS INC. MAXIM GROUP INC (THE) MEN'S WEARHOUSE INC (THE) METRO GLOBAL MEDIA INC METROLOGIC INSTRUMENTS INC MICHAELS STORES INC MICRO WAREHOUSE INC MICROAGE INC MICROSOFT CORP MICROTOUCH SYSTEMS INC MID STATES PLC MULTIPLE ZONES INTERNATIONAL INC MUSICLAND STORES CORP NACCO INDUSTRIES INC NATURE'S SUNSHINE PRODUCTS INC NCR CORPORATION OFFICE DEPOT INC OFFICEMAX INC PARTY CITY CORPORATION PAYLESS SHOESOURCE INC PEP BOYS-MANNY MOE & JACK (THE) PERFUMANIA INC PETSMART INC PIER 1 IMPORTS INC PRICESMART INC PROTEAM.COM INC PSC INC REGIS CORP RESTORATION HARDWARE REXALL SUNDOWN INC ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY INC

122 ROUSE CO (THE) RUDDICK CORPORATION SAFEWAY INC SANTA ISABEL SCHOOL SPECIALTY INC SHARPER IMAGE CORPORATION SHERWIN WILLIAMS COMPANY (THE) SMART & FINAL INC SOFTWARE SPECTRUM SPECIALITY CATALOG CORP SPIEGEL INC SPORTS AUTHORITY INC (THE) STANDEX INTERNATIONAL CORP STAPLES INC STARBUCKS CORP STERLING COMMERCE INC STERLING VISION INC SUCCESSORIES INC SUNGLASS HUT INTERNATIONAL INC SUPER-SOL LTD SUPERMERCADOS UNIMARC SYMBOL TECHNOLOGIES INC SYNERGY BRANDS INC SYSTEMAX INC TALBOTS INC (THE) TIFFANY & CO TIME WARNER INC TJX COMPANIES INC TOTAL SYSTEM SERVICES INC TOYS R US INC TRANS WORLD ENTERTAINMENT CORP TRANS-LUX CORPORATION U S OFFICE PRODUCTS CO UNITED ARTISTS THEATRE CIRCUIT INC URBAN OUTFITTERS INC VENATOR GROUP INC VIACOM INC VIDEO UPDATE INC VISTA EYECARE INC WAL MART STORES INC WALT DISNEY COMPANY (THE) WET SEAL INC (THE) WILD OATS MARKETS INC WILLIAMS SONOMA INC WILSONS THE LEATHER EXPERTS INC WINN DIXIE STORES INC ZALE CORPORATION

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

INDIVIDUAL DATA PROFILES ON EACH OF THE RETAIL 500

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Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

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1 800 CONTACTS Industry Group Code: 44613 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 5

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 5

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Direct Marketing Only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Contact Lenses, Retail Direct-selling of contact lenses and supplies On-line marketing of contact lenses

1-800-CONTACTS is a Utah-based direct marketer of replacement contact lenses. The company’s competitive strengths are a memorable phone number, innovative and efficient systems, and excellent customer service. The company’s sales increased drastically when the company introduced themselves on television and on the Internet, with their website www.1800contacts.com. The company bought a storefront on America Online’s shopping channel and inked ad deals with major Internet sites including Infoseek, Webcrawler, Lycos, Alta Vista, Yahoo and Netscape. In addition, the company recently completed its move to a new call center, implemented a new phone system and increased on-hand inventories. 1-800CONTACTS offers virtually all of the most popular brands of contact lenses at competitive prices, with direct-to-home delivery. A proprietary management information system, capable of speeding repeat customers through the order process, is credited for generating three to five times higher average per employee sales figures than its largest direct marketing competitors.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Contact Lenses Online, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Jonathan Coon, CEO Jonathan Coon, Pres. Scott Tanner, CFO John Nichols, VP-Oper.

Phone: 801-924-9800 Fax: 801-924-9905 Toll-Free: 800-266-8228 Address: 66 East Wadsworth Park Drive, 3rd Floor, Draper, UT, 84020 Internet Address: www.1800contacts.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $59,900 1997 Sales: $21,100 1996 Sales: $3,600 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: CTAC

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-7,900 1997 Profits: $ 600 1996 Profits: $ 300 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

196

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $120,000 Second Exec. Salary: $110,000

Bonus: $40,500 Bonus: $47,438

Focused on selling high quality contact lenses direct to the consumer

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

126

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

7-ELEVEN INC Industry Group Code: 44512 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 3

Profits: 3

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

7-ELEVEN

2,400-3,100

$1,220,521

Free-standing/In-line

5,422 company-owned; 2,927 franchised 5 22

High's Dairy Stores Quik Mart & SUPER-7

$1,220,521 $1,220,521

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Convenience Stores-Retail

7-Eleven, formerly The Southland Corporation, is the largest convenience store chain in the world, with approximately 17,100 company-operated, franchised and licensed locations worldwide, and is among the nation's largest retailers. The company believes that 7-ELEVEN is the leading name in the convenience store industry. The company has, over the past several years, implemented its strategic plan to divest all its non-convenience store operations, and has trimmed its store operations by consolidating its efforts in certain market areas and by closing less profitable stores. Recently, the company achieved two important goals: the continued development of a point of sale automated retail information system that reached its initial testing phase and after a decade of dramatic reductions in the number of 7-ELEVEN stores, a total of 61 stores were opened by the company. 7ELEVEN is developing a leading-edge approach that will allow it to satisfy customer demands in a way that is different from other retailers. The infrastructure necessary to provide such differentiation includes a fresh-food program that offers a level of quality and consistency unmatched in the convenience store industry. It also includes a distribution system that supplies those fresh foods on a daily basis to each 7-ELEVEN and provides access to products where traditional distribution economics are unfavorable. Finally, a new, proprietary retail information system that ties everything together assists store operators in always being in stock and allows each store to tailor its product selection for its own customers.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: High's Dairy Stores Quik Mart SUPER-7 IYG Holding Company Southland Corporation Ito Yokado

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Clark J. Matthews, Pres./CEO James W. Keyes, Exec. VP/COO David A Urbel, VP-Finance Wendy Barth, VP-Sales and Mktg. Terry Blocher, VP-Human Resources Linda Svehlak, VP-Info. Systems Donald E. Thomas, VP/Controller Rodney A. Brehm, Sr. VP-Store Oper. David A. Urbel, VP/Treas.

Phone: 214-828-7011 Fax: 214-841-6799 Toll-Free: Address: 2711 North Haskell Ave., P. O. Box 711, Dallas, TX, 75204 Internet Address: www.7elevenusa.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $7,349,811 1997 Sales: $7,060,557 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: SVEV

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $74,048 1997 Profits: $70,042 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 29,532

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $480,000 Second Exec. Salary: $350,000

Bonus: $339,840 Bonus: $206,500

Largest convenience store chain in the world/Strong Japanese backing.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: The Richards Group, Inc., Dallas, TX

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

127

99 CENTS ONLY STORES Industry Group Code: 45291 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 13

Profits: 8

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

99 Cents Only Stores Odds-N-Ends Only Deals

15,000

$4,100,000 per store

Free-standing

66 22 52

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Discount Stores, Retail

99 Cents Only Stores is a leading deep-discount retailer of primarily name brand, consumable general merchandise at a single price point of 99 cents. The company’s stores offer a wide assortment of regularly available consumer goods as well as a broad variety of first-quality closeout merchandise. Recently, a majority of 99 Cents Only Stores' product offerings were comprised of recognizable name brand merchandise and were regularly available for reorder. The company’s 66 existing 99 Cents Only Stores are located in Southern California and have an average size of 15,000 square feet. The company recently opened two new stores and plans to open an additional 11 stores. The company also sells merchandise through its Bargain Wholesale division at prices generally below normal wholesale levels to local, regional and national discount, drug and grocery store chains. Merchandise is additionally sold to independent retailers, distributors and exporters. Bargain Wholesale complements the company’s retail operations by allowing the company to purchase in larger volumes at more favorable pricing. 99 Cents Only Stores recently announced its intention to acquire Universal International, Inc. and Odd’s-N-End’s, Inc. Together, Universal and Odd’s-N-End’s owns and operates 44 Only Deals stores in Minnesota and the surrounding upper Midwest region, 22 Odd’s-N-End’s stores in upstate New York and eight Only Deals stores in Texas.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Bargain Wholesale Universal International, Inc. Odd's-N-End's, Inc. Only Deals

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. David Gold, Pres./CEO Eric Schiffer, Sr. VP-Oper. and Finance Andrew Farina, CFO Larry Borenstein, VP-Mktg. Carolyn J. Brock, VP-Human Resources Jeff Gold, Sr. VP-Real Estate and Info. Systems Helen Pipken, Sr. VP-Wholesale Oper. Howard Gold, Sr. VP-Dist.

Phone: 213-980-8145 Fax: 213-980-8160 Toll-Free: 888-835-0099 interactive fax Address: 4000 East Union Pacific Ave., City of Commerce, CA, 90023 Internet Address: www.businesswire.com/cnn/ndn.htm Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $323,300 1997 Sales: $230,900 1996 Sales: $183,600 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: NDN

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $26,700 1997 Profits: $1,900 1996 Profits: $13,700 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 4,433

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $175,000 Second Exec. Salary: $135,200

Bonus: $ Bonus: $25,000

Carries a broad variety of merchandise at very deep discounts.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

128

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

A C MOORE ARTS & CRAFTS Industry Group Code: 45112 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 5

Profits: 5

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

A.C. Moore Arts & Crafts

20,000-25,000

$6,329,000 per store/$302 per sq. ft.

In-line

35

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Arts/Crafts, Retail

A.C. Moore Arts & Crafts, Inc. is a chain of 40 arts-andcrafts superstores in the northeastern part of the United States. Plans are being implemented for additional locations. Two-thirds of the company’s stores are concentrated in New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. The superstores, which usually contain 20,000-25,000 square feet of space, stock more than 45,000 different items including silk flowers, art supplies, frames, yarn, seasonal items and children’s crafts. The stores also offer in-store arts-and-crafts classes for children and adults.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Moorestown Finance, Inc. Blackwood Assets, Inc. A.C. Moore, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Jack Parker, Pres./CEO Robert M. Spencer, Exec. VP/COO Leslie H. Gordon, Sr. VP/CFO Patrica A. Parker, Exec. VP-Merch. Jack A. Robinson, VP-Store Oper. Leslie H. Gordon, Treas.

Phone: 609-228-6700 Fax: 609-228-0080 Toll-Free: Address: 500 University Ct., Blackwood, NJ, 08012 Internet Address: www.acmoore.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $187,000 1997 Sales: $138,100 1996 Sales: $109,300 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: ACMR

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $3,900 1997 Profits: $4,000 1996 Profits: $3,800 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 2,736

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $300,000 Second Exec. Salary: $250,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $15,000

Offers a vast array of art and craft items.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

129

AARON RENTS INC Industry Group Code: 4400 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 4

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Rent-to-Rent Division Franchised Rental Purchase Company-Operated Rental Purchase

19,000 9,000 9,000

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

In-line In-line In-line

109 136 182

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Rental stores Rents home and office accessories Rents consumer electronics Rents household appliances Rents business equipment Furniture manufacturing

Aaron Rents is a U.S. leader in the rent-to-rent and rental purchase industries, operating 402 stores in 32 states. The company offers both individual and business customers a wide range of residential and office furniture, accessories, consumer electronics and household appliances for rental, rental purchase and sale. The company’s major operating divisions are the Aaron Rents’ Rent-to-Rent Division, the Aaron’s Rental Purchase Division, the Aaron Rents’ Convention Furnishing Division and MacTavish Furniture Industries Division, which manufactures much of the furniture for the company’s rental and rental purchase stores. Aaron Rents is the only rental company in the United States that manufactures its own furniture. The company expects to continue to grow its store base and plans to open five to ten rent-to-rent stores, ten to fifteen company-operated rental purchase stores and 45 to 50 new franchised rental purchase stores. The company’s rental purchase concept is unique by offering 12-month rental purchase agreements, larger and more attractive store showrooms and a wider selection of merchandise. Aaron Rents recently acquired RentMart Rent-to-Own, Inc. and Blackhawk’s Convention Services, Inc., enabling the company to serve most of the major convention cities of the United States. Aaron Rents also acquired seven franchised stores from ACI Investments, Inc.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Aaron Rents' Rent-to-Rent division Aaron's Rental Purchase division Aaron's Rental Purchase franchised stores Aaron Investment Company Rent Mart Rent-to-Own, Inc. Blackhawk's Convention Services, Inc. ACI Investments, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. R. Charles Loudermilk, Sr., CEO Robert C. Loudermilk, Jr., Pres./COO Gilbert L. Danielson, VP-Finance/CFO Keith C. Groen, VP-Legal Affairs/Sec. Mitchell S. Paull, Treas./VP

Phone: 404-231-0011 Fax: 404-240-6584 Toll-Free: Address: 309 E. Paces Ferry Road, N.E., Atlanta, GA, 303052377 Internet Address: www.aaronrents.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $370,800 1997 Sales: $304,400 1996 Sales: $269,900 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: RNTA

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $21,500 1997 Profits: $18,400 1996 Profits: $15,400 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 3,100

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $454,000 Second Exec. Salary: $230,000

Bonus: $355,527 Bonus: $

Uses aggressive franchising to fuel growth.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 2 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Crumbley & Alba, Atlanta, GA

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

130

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

ABERCROMBIE & FITCH CO Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 18

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Abercrombie & Fitch Co. Abercrombie

483 per sq. ft.

Profits: 9

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Mall Mall

196 9

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel Stores, Retail Catalog sales

Abercrombie & Fitch Company is a specialty retailer of classic casual American sportswear targeted to men and women approximately 15-50 years of age. The company operates a total of 171 stores including 9 Abercrombie stores, an experimental store concept geared to boys and girls 7-14 years old. The company also publishes the A&F Quarterly, its catalogue magazine. The Abercrombie & Fitch brand was established in 1892 and became well known as a supplier of rugged, high-quality outdoor gear who placed a premium on complete customer satisfaction with each item sold. The company was acquired by The Limited in 1988, and in 1992 Abercrombie & Fitch was repositioned as a more fashion-oriented casual apparel business directed at men and women with a youthful lifestyle. In re-establishing the Abercrombie & Fitch brand, the company combines its historical image for quality with a new emphasis on casual American style and youthfulness. The company looks for outgoing employees with personal style.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: The Limited, Inc. Abercrombie A & F Quarterly

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Michael S. Jeffries, CEO Michael S. Jeffries, Pres. Seth R. Johnson, VP/CFO Michele S. Donnan-Martin, VP-General Merch. Mgr. Charles W. Martin, VP-Men's Design Leslee K. O'Neill, VP-Merch. Control

Phone: 614-577-6500 Fax: 614-577-6980 Toll-Free: Address: P.O. Box 182168, Reynoldsburg, OH, 43218 Internet Address: www.abercrombie.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $815,800 1998 Sales: $521,617 1997 Sales: $335,372 1996 Sales: $235,659 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: Acquired

1999 Profits: $102,100 1998 Profits: $48,300 1997 Profits: $24,674 1996 Profits: $14,298 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 6,700

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $1,000,000 Second Exec. Salary: $900,000

Bonus: $1,861,560 Bonus: $1,228,630

Well known for quality, youthful casual apparel.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Sisman Design, New York, NY; Harte-Hanks Direct, New York, NY

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

131

AHOLD Industry Group Code: 4451 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 37

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Giant Food Stores Shop & Stop BI-LO Tops Markets

30,000

Profits: 2

Annual Sales Per Store:

36,000-50,000

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Free-standing Free-standing Free-standing Free-standing

150 187 263 236

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Grocery Stores/Supermarkets, Retail

Ahold is an international food retailer operating 3,200 supermarkets, hypermarkets and specialty stores in the United States, Europe, Latin America and Asia. In the United States, the company operates more than 800 stores under the trade names BI-LO, Tops Markets, Giant Food Stores and Stop & Shop. In the Netherlands, Ahold owns six store chains with over 1,700 outlets including Albert Heijn (supermarkets), Gall & Gall (liquor stores) and Etos (health and beauty care stores). The company is also co-owner of the leading supermarket chain Pingo Doce and the Feira Nova hypermarkets in Portugal. In the Czech Republic, it owns several store chains, including Mana supermarkets and Sesam discount stores. Ahold is further developing its food retail operations in Spain and Poland through joint ventures. In Brazil, the company is co-owner of Brazilian food retailer Bompreco, market leader in the northeastern part of the country. In Argentina, Ahold is co-owner of leading supermarket chain Disco and of the fast growing Chilean supermarket chain Santa Isabel in Chile, Peru, Paraguay and Ecuador. In the Asia Pacific region, the company works closely with strong local partners to develop TOPS supermarket chains in five countries: Thailand, China, Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia. Ahold's 1998 sales were 58,363,518 Guilders and its profits were 1,205,867 Guilders. In 1999, the company plans to open 12 new stores through its Giant Food Stores chain.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Disco-Ahold International BI-LO Giant Food Stores Stop & Shop Tops Markets Albert Heijn Santa Isabel CRC Ahold

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Cees van der Hoeven, CEO Cees van der Hoeven, Pres. Andre Buitenhuis, Sr. VP-Finance and Fiscal Affairs Norbert Berger, Corp. Sec. Bert Verhelst, Sr. VP-Admin. Maarten Dorhout Mees, Business Dev. Hans Gobes, Sr. VP-Comm. Steve Odland, Pres./CEO-Tops Markets Marshall Collins, Jr., Pres./CEO-BI-LO

Phone: 31-75-659-91-11 Fax: 31-75-659-83-60 Toll-Free: Address: P.O. Box 3050, 1500 HB Zaandam, The Netherlands, Internet Address: www.ahold.nl Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $30,800 1997 Sales: $24,900 1996 Sales: $20,800 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: AHO

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $638,200 1997 Profits: $460,900 1996 Profits: $361,600 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 162,746

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $ Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

International acquisitions/Large market presence.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

132

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

ALBERTO-CULVER COMPANY Industry Group Code: 44612 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Sally Beauty Supply

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

$91,827,000 per store

In-line

1,998

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Cosmetics/Beauty Supplies, Retail Branded consumer products Manufacturer of spices and condiments

Alberto-Culver Company operates in two business segments: Consumer Products, which includes manufacturing, distributing and marketing branded consumer products and Specialty Distribution, which consists of Sally Beauty Company, a specialty retailer of beauty supplies. The company's Sally Beauty subsidiary is one of the world's largest beauty supply retailers, selling Alberto-Culver hair care, skin care and personal care products along with styling appliances in over 120 countries including the U.S., Puerto Rico, the U.K., Canada, Japan and Germany. The company's Consumer Products division includes health and beauty care products as well as food and household products. Food and household products include an anti-static spray, saltfree seasonings and butter and sugar substitutes. Through its Cederroth subsidiary, the company is a major marketer of beauty and health care products throughout Scandinavia and Europe. Products include many that are not marketed by Alberto-Culver in the U.S. such as liquid soap, bandages, antacids and detergents. New products include expansions in its St. Ives line of shampoos and conditioners, St. Ives spray-on body lotion and new herbal formulas for its Alberto V05 line of shampoos and conditioners. Alberto-Culver's corporate web page offers a listing of positions currently open within the company along with a detailed list of financial, medical and personal benefits.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Alberto-Culver USA Sally Beauty Supply Static Guard Alberto VO5 TRESemme Mrs. Dash St. Ives Cederroth

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Howard B. Bernick, CEO Howard B. Bernick, Pres. William J. Cernugel, Sr. VP-Finance Thomas J. Pallone, VP-Research and Dev. Bernice E. Lavin, Sec./Treas. Carol L. Bernick, Pres.-Alberto-Culver North America/Asst. Sec Michael H. Renzulli, Pres.-Sally Beauty Company, Inc.

Phone: 708-450-3000 Fax: 708-450-3354 Toll-Free: Address: 2525 Armitage Avenue, Melrose Park, IL, 60160 Internet Address: www.alberto.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $1,834,700 1997 Sales: $1,775,300 1996 Sales: $1,590,400 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: ACV

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $83,100 1997 Profits: $85,400 1996 Profits: $62,700 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 12,700

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $1,225,002 Second Exec. Salary: $1,149,999

Bonus: $449,000 Bonus: $421,000

The nation's leading beauty supplies retailer/Stores in the U.S., Europe and Japan.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Lois/EJL Chicago, Chicago, IL; E. Morris, Communications, Inc., Chicago, IL; Partners & Shevack Design, New York, NY

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

133

ALBERTSONS INC Industry Group Code: 4451 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 6

Profits: 3

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Albertson's (combination food-drug stores) Albertson's (conventional supermarkets) Max Food and Drug (warehouse stores)

35,000-82,000

Free-standing

866

15,000-35,000

Free-standing/In-line

86

17,000-73,000

Free-standing

31

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Grocery Stores/Supermarkets, Retail Food and drug stores Warehouse stores Fuel centers

Albertson’s, Inc. is one of the largest retail food and drug chains in the U.S., with 878 stores in 20 western, midwestern and southern states. These stores consist of 768 combination food-drug stores, 72 conventional supermarkets and 38 warehouse stores. Retail operations are supported by 11 company-owned distribution centers. Albertson’s actively pursued an expansion program of adding new stores, enlarging and remodeling existing stores and replacing smaller ones. Recent developments include the company’s new communications network which links all of its stores, distribution centers and offices. Albertson’s is implementing a number of growth strategies, including cross-merchandising and the ever-popular Everyday Low Price Program. Recent acquisitions include Buttrey Food and Drug Stores Company, a leading supermarket and pharmacy retailer operating 43 stores in Montana, North Dakota and Wyoming. The acquisition of Seessel’s , the second-largest grocery store chain in the Memphis, Tennessee area, provides the company with 10 additional stores, a central bakery and a central kitchen. Smitty’s Super Markets, Inc., one of the largest grocery store chains in the Springfield and Joplin, Missouri areas was also acquired. The biggest news is the firm's planned 1999 acquisition of American Stores, Inc. for $9.8 billion in stock and the assumption of $3.4 billion in debt. This will be the second-largest supermarket chain, behind Kroger. Albertson’s recently opened its first fuel center and plans to continue to add fuel centers near existing stores. Albertson's works hard to maintain a fun and festive atmosphere. For example, the stores are heavily decorated on holidays and employees are encouraged to wear costumes that go with the events.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Max Food and Drug Albertson's Dear Albertson's Qick Fixin' Ideas Buttrey Food and Drug Stores Company Seessel's Smitty's Super Markets, Inc. American Stores, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Gary G. Michael, CEO Richard L. King, Pres./COO A. Craig Olson, Sr. VP-Finance/CFO Steven D. Young, Sr. VP-Human Resources Patrick S. Steele, Sr. VP-Info. Systems and Tech. Carl W. Pennington, Exec. VP-Corp. Merch. Ronald D. Walk, Exec. VP-Retail Oper.

Phone: 208-395-6200 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: P.O. Box 20, Boise, ID, 83726 Internet Address: www.albertsons.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $16,005,100 1998 Sales: $14,689,500 1997 Sales: $13,776,700 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: ABS

1999 Profits: $567,200 1998 Profits: $516,800 1997 Profits: $493,800 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 88,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $750,000 Second Exec. Salary: $500,000

Bonus: $351,000 Bonus: $

Strong distribution network and very effective expansion strategies/Acquisition of American Stores, Inc.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 4 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Duncan & Associates, Santa Monica, CA

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

134

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

AMAZON.COM INC Industry Group Code: 4541 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 17

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

E-commerce Only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Virtual Book Store On-line recorded music retailing On-line video retailing On-line auctions Internet business investments On-line electronics sales On-line toy sales

Amazon.com is the leading online retailer of books. Since opening for business as Earth’s Biggest Bookstore in July 1995, the Amazon.com booksales site has quickly become one of the most widely known, used and cited commerce sites on the World Wide Web. The company offers more than 2.5 million titles, including most of the estimated 1.5 million English-language books believed to be in print, more than one million out-of-print titles believed likely to be in circulation and a smaller number of CDs, videotapes and audiotapes. The company has customer accounts from over 100 countries. Amazon.com recently obtained a highly mechanized distribution facility in Fernley, Nevada that will reduce standard shipping times to key markets in the western United States by a full day. The facility, encompassing more than seven acres, will also allow Amazon.com to significantly increase the number of books, CDs and videos kept on hand for immediate shipment to customers. In addition, Amazon.de and Amazon.co.uk opened their virtual doors on the World Wide Web, replacing sites once operated by ABC Bucherdienst in Germany and Bookpages, Ltd. in the U.K. For the first time on a local basis, the sites make available to Europeans a vast selection, guaranteed safety of transactions, unparalleled convenience and electronic gift certificates for worry-free gift giving. The company has also launched a highly-successful on-line auction business to compete with eBay. In addition, Amazon has recently launched toy sales on its site. It also has made major investments in sites selling drugstore items, groceries, pet supplies and outdoor gear.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Homegrocer.com Editors service MatchMaker collaborative filtering Drugstore.com Gear.com Planetall.com LiveBid.com Pets.com

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Jeffrey P. Bezos, CEO Joseph Galli, Pres./COO Joy D. Covey, CFO/VP-Finance and Admin. Mark L. Breier, VP-Mktg. Shel Kaphan, Chief Tech. Officer Richard L. Datzell, VP/CIO Oswaldo F. Duenas, VP-Oper. Ram Shriram, VP-Business Dev. David Risher, Sr. VP-Product Dev. Jimmy Wright, Chief Logistics Officer

Phone: 206-622-2335 Fax: 206-622-2405 Toll-Free: Address: 1516 Second Avenue, 4th Floor, Seattle, WA, 98101 Internet Address: www.amazon.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $610,000 1997 Sales: $147,800 1996 Sales: $15,700 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: AMZN

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-124,500 1997 Profits: $-27,600 1996 Profits: $-5,800 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 2,100

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $201,512 Second Exec. Salary: $142,083

Bonus: $149,174 Bonus: $22,379

Got an early lead in on-line bookselling/ Highly interactive site/Entry into the on-line auction business/Expansion into additional lines of retailing.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 3 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: FCB, New York, NY

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

135

AMC ENTERTAINMENT INC Industry Group Code: 512131 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Profits: 5

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

AMC Entertainment

Avg. 14 screens per theater 30 Screens

$3,697,794 per theater

Free-standing

229

In-line

1

Planet Movies by AMC

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Movie Theaters

AMC Entertainment, Inc. is one of the leading theatrical exhibition companies in North America. The company currently operates 229 theatres with an aggregate of 2,557 screens located in 23 states, the District of Columbia, Portugal, Spain and Japan. The company is an industry leader in the development and operation of megaplex and multiplex theatres, primarily in large metropolitan markets. Megaplexes are theatres with predominantly stadium-style seating and other amenities to enhance the movie-going experience. Multiplexes are theatres generally without stadium-style seating. All but one of the company’s megaplexes features 14 or more screens. AMC's megaplexes have consistently ranked among its top grossing facilities on a per screen basis and are among the top grossing theatres in North America. The company continually upgrades its theatre circuit by opening new theatres, adding new screens to existing theatres and selectively closing or disposing of unprofitable multiplexes. New theatres will primarily be megaplexes that will also be equipped with SONY Dynamic Digital Sound and AMC LoveSeat style seating. Other amenities may include auditoriums with TORUS Compound Curved Screens and High Impact Theatre Systems, which enhance picture and sound quality, respectively. The company recently announced a joint venture with Planet Hollywood International, Inc. to develop Planet Movies by AMC. Each megaplex will feature an entertainment center that will include restaurants as well as refreshment and merchandise kiosks. AMC offers the only professional management training program in the motion picture exhibition industry. In addition to benefit plans such as the 401K, the company offers nice little benefits such as free movie passes.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: American Multi-Cinema, Inc. AMC Entertainment International, Inc. Centertainment, Inc. AMC Film Marketing National Cinema Network, Inc. AMC Realty, Inc. Planet Movies

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Stanley H. Durwood, CEO Philip M. Singleton, Exec. VP/COO Peter C. Brown, Pres./CFO Richard L. Obert, Sr. VP/Chief Acc. and Info. Officer John D. McDonald, Exec. VP-North American Oper.

Phone: 816-221-4000 Fax: 816-480-4617 Toll-Free: Address: P.O. Box 419615, Kansas City, MO, 64141-6615 Internet Address: www.amctheatres.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $1,026,700 1998 Sales: $846,795 1997 Sales: $749,597 1996 Sales: $655,972 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: AEN

1999 Profits: $-16,000 1998 Profits: $-24,500 1997 Profits: $-19,000 1996 Profits: $8,021 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 12,700

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $536,558 Second Exec. Salary: $316,679

Bonus: $ Bonus: $28,500

75% of the company's screens are located in the top 20 markets.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

136

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

AMERICA ONLINE INC Industry Group Code: 51339 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

E-commerce Internet Services Only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Interactive Communications and Services, Retail Financial data On-line search, games and other consumer services E-mail services On-line chat Computer and Internet browser software On-line retailing and auctions E-Commerce support

America Online, Inc. (AOL) is the leading provider of online communication, information, retailing and entertainment services. The company operates two worldwide Internet online services: America Online appeals to those seeking entertainment, with more than 16 million members (and growing at the rate of 750,000 per quarter), and CompuServe is geared toward professionals and small-business owners, with approximately 2 million members. The company was an early leader in offering a graphical user interface and now offers subscribers an advanced multimedia user interface. AOL generates revenues from membership and usage fees, as well as increasingly from other sources. Advertising and ecommerce retailing will bring in nearly $1 billion in 1999 and will grow at a soaring rate over the mid-term. The firm is implementing a multiple brand strategy supported by a common infrastructure to build programming and other content and services as a foundation for growth in subscribers and revenues. The AOLnet is the company’s data communications network, which AOL continues to expand in order to increase its network capacity, provide its members with higher speed access and reduce data network costs on a per-hour basis. AOL also operates an extensive on-line shopping mall. In addition to its on-line shopping mall, AOL aggressively uses screens that pop up when a subscriber first logs on to sell merchandise such as books and software. These offers are extremely successful, and may move 25,000 units in one day. AOL acquired Netscape in 1998, giving it a huge boost in browser software and the corporate software market.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Netscape Entertainment Asylum Electra Real Fans Sport Network NaviSoft, Inc. Advanced Network and Servicers, Inc. Medior, Inc. CompuServe

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Stephen M. Case, CEO Robert W. Pittman, Pres./COO J. Michael Kelly, Sr. VP/CFO/Chief Acc. Officer/Asst. Sec. Mark Stavish, VP-Human Resources Miles R. Gilburne, Sr. VP-Corporate Dev. James E. Martin, Sr. VP/General Mgr.-Netcenter, Netscape.com Kathryn A. Bushkin, Sr. VP/Chief Comm. Officer J. Michael Kelly, Treas.

Phone: 703-448-8700 Fax: 703-918-1400 Toll-Free: Address: 22000 AOL Way, Dulles, VA, 20166-9323 Internet Address: www.aol.com Notes/Other Info: [email protected]

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $2,600,000 1997 Sales: $1,685,200 1996 Sales: $1,093,900 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: AOL

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $92,000 1997 Profits: $-499,300 1996 Profits: $29,800 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 8,500

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $541,665 Second Exec. Salary: $426,667

Bonus: $750,000 Bonus: $750,000

Largest provider of consumer on-line services/Strategic alliances with major media, retail and technology companies/Strong on-line entertainment/Acquisition of Netscape..

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 3 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Carat Freeman, Newton, MA; DJ Dircks Associates, Saint James, NY; Gotham Incorporated, New York, NY; Western International Media Corporation, New York, NY

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

137

AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS INC Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 22

Profits: 16

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

American Eagle Outfitters

4,200

$1,522,279 per store/$288 per sq. ft.

Mall

285

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel Stores, Retail

American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. is a leading specialty retailer of women’s and men’s quality casual lifestyle apparel, footwear, outerwear and accessories. The company’s objective is to completely outfit its core customers with American Eagle Outfitters products. It currently operates 285 mall-based stores in 41 states principally in the Midwest, Northeast, and Southeast. The merchandise conveys a clean, fresh, collegiate appeal and is designed with 20-year old men and women in mind to appeal to customers ranging from 16-34 years old. American Eagle opened 36 new locations last year and plans to open 60 new locations in 1999. The company sells merchandise through its Internet site, AEOutfitters.com, and is exploring the development of a catalog. The Internet site features merchandise at regular prices in full color with easy-to-use shopping features. It also features a clearance center, books, videos, music and the ability to apply for an American Eagle credit card. New merchandise planning software systems were recently implemented as wel.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Retail Commerce Company Retail Royalty Company Prophecy Company Prophecy Ltd. Partner Company Prophecy Limited Partnership

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Jay L. Schottenstein, CEO George Kolber, COO Laura A. Weil, CFO/Exec. VP Michael J. Leedy, VP-Mktg. Michael E. Bergdahl, VP-Human Resources Roger S. Markfield, Pres./Chief Merch. Officer Joseph E. Kerin, Exec. VP/Dir.-Store Oper.

Phone: 724-776-4857 Fax: Toll-Free: 888-A-EAGLE-5 Address: 150 Thorn Hill Dr., Warrendale, PA, 15086-7528 Internet Address: www.ae-outfitters.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $587,600 1998 Sales: $405,700 1997 Sales: $326,404 1996 Sales: $340,323 1995 Sales: $199,688

Stock Ticker: AEOS

1999 Profits: $54,100 1998 Profits: $19,505 1997 Profits: $5,925 1996 Profits: $-1,334 1995 Profits: $6,629

Employees: 6,685

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $412,464 Second Exec. Salary: $407,692

Bonus: $120,000 Bonus: $200,000

Opening 20 new stores yearly.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

138

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

AMERICAN EXPRESS CO Industry Group Code: 52232A Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Direct marketing/Catalog only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Credit Card Services, Retail On-line selling Credit cards Financial advisory services International banking services Travel related services Direct marketing/mail order Publishing

American Express Company is a global travel and financial services company that provides customers with a variety of products, including credit cards, travelers checks, financial planning, brokerage services, mutual funds, insurance and other investment products. Through its magazine and credit card customer base, it is also one of the world's largest direct marketers. The company's American Express Relationship Services segment sells products and services which address some of the information, access, household, leisure, security, financial and telecommunications needs of American Express customers, offering merchandise directly to cardholders who may elect to pay in installments with no finance charges. American Express also directly markets its products through ExpressNet, its Consumer Cards group and through its TRS International's catalogs and magazines. American Express provides travel and banking services to corporations, financial institutions and retail customers outside the U.S. Recent news for American Express is focus on corporate travel, expanding its credit card business and expanding overseas operations. The company's new 30-story office tower in Minneapolis which will become the headquarters of the firm's American Express Financial Corporation subsidiary. Of the company's officials and managers, 17.0% are minorities, and 24.0% of the employees in the entire work force are minorities. The company is a member of the Consortium for Graduate Study in Management, a group of companies that pays for minorities to obtain MBAs. American Express' financial advisors unit created Diversity Learning Labs to teach employees about the specific financial-planning needs of minorities.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: American Express Travel Related Services Company American Express Financial Corporation American Express Bank TRS International Food & Wine Magazine Consumer Card Services Group Travel & Leisure Magazine Departures Magazine

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Harvey Golub, CEO Kenneth I. Chenault, COO/Pres. Richard K. Goeltz, CFO John D. Hayes, Exec. VP-Global Advertising Ursula F. Fairbairn, Exec. VP-Human Resources and Quality Allan Z. Loren, Exec. VP/CIO Thomas Schick, Exec. VP-Corp. Affairs and Comm. D.R. Hubers, Pres./CEO-American Express Financial Corporation

Phone: 212-640-2000 Fax: 212-619-9802 Toll-Free: 800-535-4438 Address: World Financial Center, Ste. 200, New York, NY, 10285 Internet Address: www.americanexpress.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $19,132,000 1997 Sales: $17,760,000 1996 Sales: $16,237,000 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: AXP

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $2,141,000 1997 Profits: $1,991,000 1996 Profits: $1,901,000 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 73,620

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $1,019,231 Second Exec. Salary: $717,308

Bonus: $2,400,000 Bonus: $1,750,000

One of the world's largest direct-marketers.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 4 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 3 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Ogilvy & Mather Advertising, New York, NY; DraftWorldwide, Chicago, IL; Bronner Slosberg Humphrey/Strategic Interactive Group, Boston, MA

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

139

AMERICAN STORES COMPANY Industry Group Code: 4451 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 3

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Acme Markets Jewel Food Stores Lucky Stores Jewel Osco Osco Drug Sav-On

19,200-55,500 19,200-55,500 19,200-55,500 19,200-55,500 19,200-55,500 19,200-55,500

Profits: 6

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Free-standing Free-standing Free-standing Free-standing Free-standing Free-standing

179 184 442 184 644 460

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Grocery Stores/Supermarkets, Retail Drug stores

American Stores Company is one of the nation’s leading food and drug retailers, operating 1,557 stores in 26 states. Its principal formats include supermarkets, standalone drug stores and combination food/drug stores. Principal markets include California, Illinois, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Nevada, Indiana, Massachusetts and Arizona. The company’s stores are generally located in major metropolitan markets where they hold leading market positions (generally first or second in overall market share). The company’s stores operate under the names Acme Markets, Jewel Food Stores, Lucky Stores, Osco Drug and Sav-on. Most new food stores are large combination food/drug stores with an emphasis on perishables and service departments. The combination stores also include a full drug store product assortment, as well as services such as banking and video rental. American Stores recently opened 96 new stores, completed 32 major remodels and 33 minor remodels and closed 68 stores. During 1999, the company plans to open 75 new and replacement stores, including 25 combination stores and 50 drugstores, and to remodel 90 stores. The company is one of the industry leaders in customer loyalty cards. Private label is another important part of American Stores' merchandising strategy, offering value conscious consumers quality products at prices below national brands and providing higher margins to the company. The biggest news is this firm's plan to be acquired in 1999 by Albertson's, which will create the nation's second-largest supermarket chain, behind Kroger. About 100 stores will be divested as a result of the merger.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Albertson's Jewel Food Stores, Inc. Jewel Osco Southwest, Inc. Lucky Stores Northern California Division Lucky Stores Southern California Division Osco Drug Sav-on Health 'n' Home Corporation

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Victor L. Lund, CEO David L. Maher, Pres./COO Teresa Beck, CFO Allen M. Zietz, Exec. VP-Mktg. Scott Bergeson, Sr. VP-Human Resources Stanley R. Whitcomb, Sr. VP-Info. Tech.

Phone: 801-961-5600 Fax: 801-531-0768 Toll-Free: 800-541-2863 Address: 299 South Main Street, Salt Lake City, UT, 84111-2203 Internet Address: www.americanstores.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $19,866,700 1998 Sales: $19,138,900 1997 Sales: $18,678,100 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: ASC

1999 Profits: $233,700 1998 Profits: $280,600 1997 Profits: $287,200 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 122,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $812,500 Second Exec. Salary: $531,667

Bonus: $50,482 Bonus: $24,765

Name recognition/Locations throughout most of the U.S./Will be acquired by Albertson's.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 4 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

140

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

AMES DEPARTMENT STORES INC Industry Group Code: 4521 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 13

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 13

Annual Sales Per Store:

Ames Hills Caldor

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Mall/Free-standing Mall/Free-standing Mall/Free-Standing

293 150 9

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Department Stores, Retail Discount stores

Ames Department Stores, Inc. operates 296 discount department stores under the Ames name in 14 states and the District of Columbia. The company’s stores are located in rural communities, some of which are not served by other large retail stores, high-traffic suburban sites, small cities and several major metropolitan areas. The stores serve largely middle and lower-middle income customers, and new stores were recently opened. The company formed a customer advisory board to give customers the opportunity to voice their opinions on Ames service and selection. Ames also started a college recruitment program, which includes a rigorous Assistant Buyer Training Program for new graduates interested in careers in the retail industry. Selected graduates enter a 10-week program designed to provide the best retail training available. Electronic Article Surveillance, an electronic sensor attached to merchandise that helps to detect shoplifters, was installed in 89 stores. In addition, a 10-store rollout of Ames new Point-of-Sale system was completed. The system is much simpler for cashiers to operate, lessening training time and the amount of time customers spend in the checkout line. Ames also signed a definitive agreement in which the company would acquire Hills, Inc., a department store operator. The company offers comprehensive training programs, as well as aggressive internal promotion programs.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Ames Transportation Systems, Inc. Ames Realty II, Inc. Ames FS, Inc. AMD, Inc. Zayre New England Corp. Zayre Central Corp.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Joseph R. Ettore, CEO Joseph R. Ettore, Pres. John F. Burtelow, Exec. VP/CFO Eugene E. Bankers, Sr. VP-Mktg. Richard L. Carter, Sr. VP-Human Resources Denis T. Lemire, Exec. VP-Merch. David H. Lissy, Sr. VP/General Counsel/Corp. Sec. Grant C. Sanborn, Sr. VP-Store Oper.

Phone: 860-257-2000 Fax: 860-257-2198 Toll-Free: Address: 2418 Main Street, Rocky Hill, CT, 06067 Internet Address: www.amesStores.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $2,507,200 1998 Sales: $2,233,100 1997 Sales: $2,161,680 1996 Sales: $2,104,231 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: AMES

1999 Profits: $33,800 1998 Profits: $34,500 1997 Profits: $17,301 1996 Profits: $-1,618 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 36,400

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $866,346 Second Exec. Salary: $369,712

Bonus: $425,000 Bonus: $150,000

Locations throughout the northeastern U.S./Nation's fifth largest discount store chain.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 4 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Mintz & Hoke Inc., Avon, CT

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

141

AMWAY ASIA PACIFIC LTD Industry Group Code: 45411 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 10

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 17

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Direct marketing only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Direct Marketer Personal care products Nutrition and wellness products Home care products Home tech products

Amway Asia Pacific, Ltd. is Amway’s exclusive distributor in the Pacific Rim, excluding Japan. The company is a direct marketer and sells more than 200 Amway products in four separate lines including personal care, nutrition and wellness, home care and home tech. The home care line includes various products such as laundry detergents, while the home tech lines feature various home products including cookware. Amway Asia Pacific operates through a sales force of over 645,000 distributors consisting of individuals acting as independent business entities. A Chinese ban on direct sales has led Amway Asia Pacific to rework its approach. Currently, the company’s distributors act as sales representatives rather that buy the company’s products and then resell them.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Amway Asia Pacific Amway Corporation Amway Japan Ltd.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Richard M. DeVos, Pres. Lawrence M. Call, VP/Treas. John C. Brockman, VP-Distributor Relations

Phone: 852-2969-6333 Fax: 852-2503-3903 Toll-Free: Address: 33 Hysan Avenue, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong, Internet Address: www.aap-amway.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $587,600 1997 Sales: $845,200 1996 Sales: $716,800 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: AAP

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $1,500 1997 Profits: $104,000 1996 Profits: $82,200 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 2,500

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $ Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Amway's exclusive Pacific Rim distributor.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International: y

142

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

AMWAY CORPORATION Industry Group Code: 45411 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 28

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Direct Marketing Internet Marketing

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Direct-Selling of Household Items Home care products Home tech products Vitamins/nutrition Cosmetics Personal care products Commercial products

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Amway Asia Pacific, Ltd. Amway Japan, Ltd. NUTRILITE ARTISTRY PERSONAL SHOPPERS catalog Quixtar.com

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Steve Van Andel, Co-CEO Richard M. DeVos Jr., Co-CEO/Pres. Lawrence Call, Sr. VP/CFO Al Koop, Sr. VP-Oper. David Brenner, Sr. VP-New Business Ventures

Phone: 616-787-6000 Fax: 616-787-6177 Toll-Free: Address: 7575 Fulton St. East, Ada, MI, 49355-0001 Internet Address: www.amway.com quixtar.com Notes/Other Info:

Amway Corporation, a privately owned company, is the world’s largest direct sales company. The firm and its 50 affiliates sell more than 450 Amway brand personal care, nutrition, home and commercial products (including ARTISTRY cosmetics and NUTRILITE vitamins), plus products of other companies such as long distance provider MCI WorldCom in more than 80 countries and territories. Amway employs highly successful techniques to motivate its independent distributors to sell products and find new recruits. The company employs more than 14,000 people and has more than three million independent distributors worldwide, including 750,000 in the U.S. Business is brisk here, and the recruitment of new distributors was up 80% in April 1999 over the previous year. Average gross sales per independent distributor appear to be about $1,900 per year. These distributors sell Amway products directly to end users, and try to recruit new distributors. They can earn a portion of the revenues generated by each recruit. The firm operates eight highly automated warehouses in the U.S., including one that was named Warehouse of the Year by Warehousing Management magazine in 1998. Founded in 1959 by Jay Van Andel and Rich DeVos, Amway is still a privately held company run by sons of the founders. Amway's 334-page Personal Shoppers catalog offers more than 10,000 brand name items. Both of the company's publicly held subsidiaries, Amway Japan Limited and Amway Asia Pacific Ltd., continue their growth. In September 1999, Amway will launch a major new website to showcase its products, quixtar.com. This will put Amway in direct competition with drugstore.com and other on-line sellers of health and beauty aids, in one of the fastest growing arenas on the Internet. The company is active in community projects and was one of the top corporate contributors to the National Easter Seal Society campaign, as well as a national sponsor of Junior Achievement in the U.S.

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $5,700 1997 Sales: $6,000 1996 Sales: $5,352 1995 Sales: $4,958

Stock Ticker: PRIVATE

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $ 1997 Profits: $ 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 14,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE: OTHER THOUGHTS:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $ Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Name recognition/Massive, worldwide sales force.

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes)

Apparent Women Officers or Directors: West: Southwest: Midwest: Southeast: Northeast: y y y y y Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Creative Resources, Inc, Grand Rapids, MI Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

143

ANNTAYLOR STORES CORP Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 13

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

AnnTaylor AnnTaylor Factory Stores AnnTaylor Loft

6,000 6,500 10,000

Profits: 22

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Mall In-line In-line

306 13 46

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel-Women's, Retail Accessories Shoes

AnnTaylor Stores Corporation, through its wholly-owned subsidiary, AnnTaylor, Inc., is a leading national specialty retailer of better quality women’s apparel, shoes and accessories sold primarily under the Ann Taylor brand name. Ann Taylor merchandise represents classic styles, updated to reflect current fashion point-of-view. Its stores offer a full range of career and casual separates, weekend wear, dresses, tops, accessories and shoes, coordinated as part of a total wardrobing strategy. Substantially all company merchandise is developed by the company’s inhouse product design and development teams. The customer base consists primarily of relatively affluent, fashion-conscious women from the ages of 25 to 55. Ann Taylor operates 324 stores in 41 states and the District of Columbia, with 283 stores located in regional malls and upscale specialty retail centers and the rest located in downtown and village locations. Recent business endeavors include the acquisition of Cygne Designs, Inc., a private label vendor of the company who acted as its sourcing agent. An important aspect of Ann Taylor’s business strategy is a real estate expansion program designed to reach new customers through the opening of new stores. The firm adds additional stores, or expands the size of existing stores, in markets where Ann Taylor already has a presence as market conditions warrant and sites become available. Ann Taylor is a very large organization with job opportunities opening up on a regular basis in 40 states.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: AnnTaylor ATdenim Navy label Destination Action AnnTaylor Loft AnnTaylor Studio AnnTaylor Factory Stores

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Patrick Spainhour, CEO Patricia DeRosa, Pres./COO Walter J. Parks, Sr. VP-Finance/CFO Gerri Feemster Bostick, Sr. VP-Human Resources Walter J. Parks, Treas.

Phone: 212-541-3300 Fax: 212-541-3379 Toll-Free: 800-999-4554 Address: 142 West 57th Street, New York, NY, 10019 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $911,900 1998 Sales: $781,000 1997 Sales: $798,117 1996 Sales: $731,142 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: ANN

1999 Profits: $39,300 1998 Profits: $11,800 1997 Profits: $8,667 1996 Profits: $- 876 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 7,300

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $725,000 Second Exec. Salary: $600,000

Bonus: $942,500 Bonus: $660,000

Focus on upscale career and leisure clothes/Appeals to sophisticated consumers/very sophisticated store décor with relaxed and upscale atmosphere.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 10 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

144

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

ARDEN GROUP INC Industry Group Code: 4451 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 34

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Mayfair Gelson's Markets

18,000-26,000 29,000-40,000

Profits: 19

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

In-line /Free-standing In-line /Free-standing

3 10

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Grocery Stores/Supermarkets, Retail

Arden Group, Inc. is a holding company with certain real estate holdings that conducts other operations through its wholly owned subsidiary, Arden-Mayfair, Inc. ArdenMayfair’s wholly owned subsidiary, Gelson’s Markets, operates supermarkets in the greater Los Angeles, California area. Gelson’s currently operates 13 supermarkets; ten under the name Gelson’s and three under the name Mayfair. Gelson’s and Mayfair are selfservice cash-and-carry markets and offer a broad selection of local and national brands as well as a limited number of private label items. The Gelson’s supermarkets target the consumer who values superior customer service and merchandise presentation, selection and quality. Gelson’s stores typically carry a wide range of items, including all of the traditional grocery categories such as produce, dry groceries, meats, dairy, wine and liquor, floral, sushi, health and beauty aids. Gelson’s merchandising emphasizes specialty items such as imported foods and unusual delicatessen items, as well as items found in service departments such as seafood, sitdown coffee areas and bakeries.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Arden-Mayfair, Inc. Gelson's Markets AMG Holdings, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Bernard Briskin, CEO Bernard Briskin, Pres. Ernest T. Klinger, VP-Finance/CFO Ernest T. Klinger, VP-Admin.

Phone: 310-638-2842 Fax: 310-631-0950 Toll-Free: Address: 2020 South Central Avenue, Compton, CA, 90220 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $296,500 1997 Sales: $274,400 1996 Sales: $252,000 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: ARDNA

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $10,100 1997 Profits: $6,000 1996 Profits: $3,500 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

985

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $500,000 Second Exec. Salary: $190,000

Bonus: $496,780 Bonus: $40,000

Located in the heavily populated Los Angeles, CA area.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

145

ARTISTIC GREETINGS INCORPORATED Industry Group Code: 45322 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales:

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Catalog E-Commerce

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Stationery Products Personalized bank checks Name and address products Package insertion Gift items

Artistic Greetings, Inc. is engaged primarily in the direct mail order marketing and sale of personalized bank checks, name and address products, stationery and gift items, and performing services such as package insertion. The merchandise is sold through freestanding newspaper inserts, co-op mailing programs and catalogs throughout the U.S. as well as in the U.K., Australia and Canada. The company has been advertising its checks on the World Wide Web since late 1994, but Artistic Greetings recently completed the next step in its Internet initiative with an order-capable Internet server and a homepage at www.artisticgreetings.com. Another new initiative for the company is its recent introduction of three-to-a-page Desk Checks intended for businesses and as an alternative to the traditional pocket check. An important component of the company’s advertising strategy is the use of ride-along advertising inserts in the packages that it ships, as well as the sale of space in its packages to third party advertisers for similar inserts.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Artistic Checks Personal Touch

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Joseph A. Calabro, CEO/Pres. Thomas C. Wyckoff, COO/Exec. VP Robert E. Johnson, Sr. VP-Finance/CFO Robert T. McDonough, Sr. VP-Mktg. and Sales William F. Ingram, VP/CIO Michelle Crane, Michelle Crane Thomas C. Wyckoff, Sr. VP-Admin. Thomas C. Wyckoff, Sr. VP-Corp. Dev.

Phone: 607-733-5541 Fax: 607-733-5651 Toll-Free: Address: 1 Komer Center, Elmira, NY, 14902 Internet Address: www.artisticgreetings.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $ 1997 Sales: $101,499 1996 Sales: $98,911 1995 Sales: $97,000

Stock Ticker: ARTG

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $ 1997 Profits: $-1,064 1996 Profits: $2,675 1995 Profits: $-1,570

Employees:

549

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $235,924 Second Exec. Salary: $200,000

Bonus: $219,037 Bonus: $13,898

Continues to improve its direct marketing techniques.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: AGI Brokers, Elmira, NY

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

146

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

ATEC GROUP INC Industry Group Code: 44312 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 3

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 3

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Catalog only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Computers and Software Hardware and software integration Computer system installation World Wide Web site development E-commerce solutions Computer products and services

ATEC Group, Inc. is a leading system integrator and provider of a full line of computer and information technology products and services to businesses, professionals, government agencies and educational institutions. The company has experienced rapid growth over the past few years in core competencies including system design, high-speed data transmission, local and/or wide area network, video conferencing, telecommunications and Internet/Intranet technology. ATEC provides end to end solutions acting as the single source for procurement, custom configuration, delivery and installation. It further provides integration services that affect after sales support, LAN/WAN design and selective outsourcing as well as many other services providing solutions in mission critical environment. ATEC recently acquired LOGIX Solutions, Inc., a Colorado based company involved with different facts of Year 2000 such as assessment, planning, conversion, testing, implementation and contingency preparedness. In addition, the company formed an Internet Services division, ATEC One. ATEC One will provide Internet access from dial-up to high bandwidth including virtual web and domain name hosting, web based messaging services and Internet/Intranet design and integration for large and small E-commerce solutions. Major infrastructure for the approval and ordering process has been set in place to launch its new site, the Internet Super Store. ATEC recently signed a strategic agreement with a telecommunications services company, Switch Now, Inc.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: American Computer Systems, Inc. Cony Computer Systems, Inc. Innovative Business Micros, Inc. Micro Computer Stores, Inc. Sun Computer and Software, Inc. ATEC One LOGIX Solutions, Inc. Switch Now, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Surinder Rametra, CEO Balwinder Singh Batthla, Pres. Ashok Rametra, VP/CFO Alan Prefer, Exec. VP-Sales and Mktg. Ashok Rametra, Treas.

Phone: 516-231-2832 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 90 Adams Avenue, Hauppauge, NY, 11788 Internet Address: www.atecgroup.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $187,200 1997 Sales: $100,800 1996 Sales: $81,800 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: ATEC

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $2,700 1997 Profits: $1,700 1996 Profits: $ 800 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

110

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $160,680 Second Exec. Salary: $158,216

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Offers a full spectrum of services and support/Provides one-stop solutions to customers' computer needs, including Web sites and integrated systems.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 3 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

147

AUDIO BOOK CLUB INC Industry Group Code: 45411 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 27

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 22

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Direct marketing E-Commerce

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Audiobooks, Retail Membership clubs

Audio Book Club, Inc. is a direct marketer of audiobooks through Audio Book Club, a membership club that markets and sells audiobooks by mail and via the Internet. Audio Book Club’s total member file currently consists of 306,798 names. The company established a web site which offers visitors to the web site the opportunity to join Audio Book Club, execute club transactions on-line, utilize the site’s search engine to locate any of the site’s audiobook selection and sample audio clips of many of the site’s selections. Booksaloud.com, an additional site, offers a wide selection of audio books. The company has recently entered into several agreements to increase its Internet presence, including agreements with such web giants as MSN, MyPoints.com, America Online, Excite.com, Yahoo!, Netscape Communications (with a pre-loaded bookmark for access to the company’s site), Deja News and Infospace.com, as well as many others. Audio Book Club also recently announced plans to leverage its classic radio content on the Internet, including the development of a new web site. The company anticipates broadcasting a different program each day that visitors can download directly to their computers. The recent acquisitions of Radio Spirits, Adventures in Cassettes, Radio Yesteryear and Video Yesteryear enabled the company to offer over 60,000 classic radio programs and 2,500 classic videos to its customers. Audio Book Club, Inc.has also recently acquired the Columbia House Audiobook Club from the Columbia House Company.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Columbia House Audiobook Club Radio Spirits Adventures in Cassettes Radio Yesteryear Video Yesteryear Booksaloud.com

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Norton Herrick, CEO Michael Herrick, COO John Levy, Exec. VP/CFO Steven M. McLaughlin, Exec. VP-Chief Tech. Officer Jesse Faber, Pres. Carl P. Amari, Pres.-Radio Group

Phone: 561-241-1426 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: P.O. Box 5010, Boca Raton, FL, 561-431-0810 Internet Address: www.audiobookclub.com, www.booksaloud.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $14,900 1997 Sales: $10,100 1996 Sales: $5,600 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: KLB

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-7,000 1997 Profits: $-4,900 1996 Profits: $-6,200 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

19

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $128,417 Second Exec. Salary: $115,129

Bonus: $40,000 Bonus: $

Offers a wide variety of vintage/non-vintage audio products.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

148

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

AUTHENTIC FITNESS CORP Industry Group Code: 45111 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Profits: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Speedo Authentic Fitness

1,100

$2,643,000 per store/$240 per sq. ft.

Mall

138

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Sporting Goods, Retail Active fitness apparel Swim accessories Swimwear

Authentic Fitness Corporation designs, manufactures and markets swimwear, swimming accessories and active fitness apparel under a number of brand-recognized names. The company operates 138 Authentic Fitness retail stores that sell active fitness apparel in major metropolitan areas of the U.S. and Canada. It has leveraged the strength of its brand names and reputation for quality to continue to develop its core business, expand its product offerings into new categories and enter new channels of distribution. Authentic Fitness' Speedo Division is its most recognized product line and holds over a 60% market share. The firm's strategy for the Speedo Division is to attract new customers to its core competition swimwear lines, and to expand its dominance in competition swimwear to other markets for fitness apparel such as aerobics, recreational water sports and volleyball. Its strategy opens new channels of distribution including its rapidly growing chain of Speedo Authentic Fitness retail stores. Recent business endeavors include a license agreement with The Warnaco Group, Inc. which allows Warnaco to manufacture and distribute men's and women's sportswear under the Catalina brand name. Authentic Fitness expects to open 200 additional stores over the next six years.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Authentic Fitness Speedo Catalina Anne Cole Cole of California Sunset Beach Sandcastle White Stag/Skiwear Division

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Linda J. Wachner, CEO Christopher G. Staff, Pres./COO Michael P. McHugh, Sr. VP/CFO David Grundman, VP-Human Resources David Grundman, VP-Admin.

Phone: 213-726-1262 Fax: 213-721-3613 Toll-Free: Address: 6040 Bandini Blvd., Commerce, CA, 90040 Internet Address: www.speedo.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $367,500 1997 Sales: $323,100 1996 Sales: $309,600 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: ASM

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $22,800 1997 Profits: $19,000 1996 Profits: $-40,900 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,293

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $1,092,810 Second Exec. Salary: $319,049

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Brand name products/Focus on active wear.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 3 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Jerry & Ketchum, New York, NY

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

149

AUTONATION INC Industry Group Code: 4411 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 3

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store:

Various new car dealerships Autonation used cars

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

free standing free standing

380 45

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Retail automobile sales Internet automobile sales Automobile rental

AutoNation, Inc. combines traditional retail car sales with online ventures, automobile rental businesses and used and new car megastores to form the largest new and used vehicle retailer in the United States. The company operates over 380 new car dealerships in 20 states, and 45 AutoNation USA used car megastores. Of those megastores, 37 are owned while eight are franchised. The company's locations can be found throughout all 50 United States, as well as internationally. AutoNation, Inc.'s successful vehicle rental operations include National Car Rental System, Inc., Alamo Rent-a-Car and CarTemps USA. The company's online business, AutoNationDirect.com, allows prospective buyers to evaluate the trade-in value of his/her current vehicle, explore nearby car lots, read automotive reviews and even purchase an automobile online. In fact, the site is the largest dealer-owned inventory of vehicles on the Internet. The company's selection is currently growing everyday as new partnerships are forged.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: AutoNation USA AutoNationDirect.com National Car Rental System, Inc. Alamo Rent-a-Car CarTemps USA

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. H. Wayne Huizenga, Co-CEO John Costello, Pres. Michael S. Karsner, SVP, CFO Robert E. Dees, Jr., Human Resources H. Scott Barrett, SVP-Info. Tech. Mary E. Wood, VP, Corp. Controller James O. Cole, Secy. Jeffery G. Davis, VP-Oper. Planning Thomas W. Hawkins, SVP-Corp. Dev. James J. Donahue, Jr., SVP-Corp. Comm. Steven R. Berrard, Co-CEO James O. Cole, General Counsel Robert F. Dwors, SVP-Corp. Real Estate Services Kathleen Hyle, VP-Finance

Phone: 954-769-6000 Fax: 954-769-6408 Toll-Free: Address: 110 SE Sixth Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33301 Internet Address: www.autonation.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $1,611,820 1997 Sales: $917,790 1996 Sales: $563,310 1995 Sales: $435,450

Stock Ticker:

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $49,950 1997 Profits: $43,970 1996 Profits: $ 670 1995 Profits: $3,460

Employees:

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $395,769 Second Exec. Salary: $369,673

Bonus: $200,000 Bonus: $100,000

Retail and online sales pair to form an extremely successful corporate powerhouse.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 4 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

150

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

AUTOZONE INC Industry Group Code: 4413 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Profits: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

AutoZone Chief TruckPro Auto Palace

4,000-8,000 Less than 4,000

$1,768,800 per store

Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line

2,377 280 43 112

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Auto Parts, Retail

AutoZone is the nation’s leading specialty retailer of automotive parts and accessories, primarily focusing on do-it-yourself customers. The company began operations in 1979 and operates 2,657 stores in 38 states under the AutoZone and Chief store names. Each AutoZone store carries an extensive product line for cars, vans and light trucks, including new and re-manufactured automotive hard parts, maintenance items and accessories. 1,385 AutoZone stores recently adopted a commercial sales program, that provides commercial credit and prompt delivery of parts and other products to local repair garages, dealers and service stations. All Chief stores will eventually be converted to the AutoZone store name and format. In addition, through a recent acquisition, the company sells heavy-duty truck parts and accessories through 43 TruckPro stores and automotive diagnostic and repair information software through its ALLDATA subsidiary. The company recently acquired the real estate associated with 100 Express auto parts stores from Pep Boys-Manny, Moe & Jack that will later be converted to the AutoZone store name and format. The company also acquired ADAP, Inc. which does business as Auto Palace and Chief Auto Parts Inc. Auto Palace has 112 stores in six northeastern states. The acquisition gives AutoZone a presence in a brand new market. This is one of the fastest-growing retail firms in the nation. The company focuses on customer and community service.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: AutoZone Duralast Apora ALLDATA Alldata Chief TruckPro Auto Palace

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Johnston C. Adams, Jr., CEO Timothy D. Vargo, Pres./COO Robert J. Hunt, Exec. VP/CFO Anthony D. Rose, Jr., Sr. VP-Advertising

Phone: 901-495-6500 Fax: 901-495-8300 Toll-Free: Address: 123 South Front Street, Memphis, TN, 38103 Internet Address: www.autozone.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $3,242,900 1997 Sales: $2,691,400 1996 Sales: $2,242,600 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: AZO

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $227,900 1997 Profits: $195,000 1996 Profits: $167,200 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 38,500

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $520,000 Second Exec. Salary: $416,000

Bonus: $253,500 Bonus: $202,800

Leading specialty retailer of automotive parts and accessories.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Autozone Advertising, Memphis, TN

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

151

AVON PRODUCTS INC Industry Group Code: 45411 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Direct Marketing

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Cosmetics/ Beauty Supplies, Retail Fragrances and toiletries Gift and decorative items Apparel and accessories Fashion jewelry

Avon Products, Inc. operates as one of the world’s leading manufacturers and marketers of beauty related products including cosmetics, toiletries, fragrances, gift and decorative items, apparel, accessories and fashion jewelry. Founded in 1886, Avon is the world’s largest direct seller of these items. Skin-So-Soft lotion, Josie and Natori fragrances and Avon Color cosmetics are available through the company’s millions of brochures and sales representatives in over 46 countries and 135 markets. Due to high demand for quality products, underdeveloped retail infrastructures and relatively attractive earnings opportunities for women, Avon is well positioned to penetrate these international markets and countries even further. Recently, the Mattel company began manufacturing one of its Barbie dolls specifically for Avon, making the doll a high-selling item for the company. To accelerate growth in the United States, western Europe and Japan, the company has developed new channels to reach more customers and improve access to its products through Avon Beauty Centers, its retail outlet, toll-free telephone numbers, direct mail and online Internet shopping. In 1998, Avon created a cosmetics collection for black women, run by Earlean Ward, an African American.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Anew Avon Color Far Away Skin-So-Soft Avon Beauty Centers Rare Gold Natori Millinnia

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Charles R. Perrin, CEO Andrea Jung, Pres./COO

Phone: 212-282-5000 Fax: 212-282-6049 Toll-Free: 800-500-2866 Address: 1345 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY, 101050196 Internet Address: www.avon.com/avon.html Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $5,212,700 1997 Sales: $5,079,400 1996 Sales: $4,814,200 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: AVP

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $270,000 1997 Profits: $338,800 1996 Profits: $317,900 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 33,900

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $1,000,000 Second Exec. Salary: $800,000

Bonus: $1,260,000 Bonus: $998,163

A lengthy history of success and a vast sales force in the U.S. and abroad.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 5 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: N.W. Ayer & Partners, New York, NY; Creative Media, LLC, New York NY

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

152

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

BABBAGE'S ETC Industry Group Code: 44312 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales:

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Babbage's Software Etc.

537-7,123 537-7,123

Profits:

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Mall Mall

831

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Computer and Software Products, Online sales

Babbage's Etc., formerly NeoStar Retail, is the leading specialty retailer of consumer software in the United States. Babbage’s and Software, Etc. stores, the company’s wholly-owned subsidiaries, are located primarily in regional shopping malls. Many of the stores exist next to or inside of Barnes & Noble stores or B. Dalton Bookseller stores under the Software, Etc. or Super Software names. Babbage's Etc. supplies the fundamentals of software retailing to all stores in all cases. The company currently emphasizes sales assistance, believing that many customers are intimidated by an overly technical environment. Sales associates are therefore trained to be responsive, enthusiastic and knowledgeable instead of utilizing an overly technical sales approach. Store personnel are constantly given training and information on new products and technologies. The company discourages the implementation of commission as a reward service to its sales employees because the company believes that commission diverts the assistant’s attention away from true customer service and individual customer needs.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Babbage's, Inc. Software Etc. Stores, Inc. Super Software

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. James B. McCurry, CEO Daniel A. Dematteo, Pres./COO Opal P. Ferraro, CFO Opal P. Ferraro, Treas.

Phone: 817-424-2000 Fax: 817-424-2002 Toll-Free: Address: 2250 William D. Tate Ave., Grapevine, TX, 76051 Internet Address: www.gamelord.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $375,000 1998 Sales: $ 1997 Sales: $ 1996 Sales: $513,548 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: PRIVATE

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $ 1997 Profits: $ 1996 Profits: $ 120 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 7,100

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $1,144,401 Second Exec. Salary: $275,750

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

In bankruptcy/Nation's leading specialty retailer of consumer software.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 3 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

153

BARBEQUES GALORE LIMITED Industry Group Code: 4442 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Barbeques Galore

Profits: 2

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

$568,000 per store

Free-standing/In-line

115

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Barbecue Grills and Accessories, Retail

Barbeques Galore Limited makes barbeque grills and accessories and sells its own and other brands through a chain of about 50 stores in the United States and about 80 stores in Australia. The company’s brands include Barbeques Galore, Turbo, Capt N Cook, Bar-B-Chef, Cook-On, Norseman and Kent. The company sells fireplace products in addition to barbecue equipment. In Australia it also sells home heating products, camping equipment and outdoor furniture. Barbeques Galore intends to boost its United States store count to about 75 by the year 2000.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Barbeuques Galore Turbo Capt N Cook Bar-B-Chef Cook-On Norseman Kent

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Sydney Selati, Pres.-Galore USA L.D. Chip Brown, COO-Galore USA Kevin Ralphs, CFO-Galore USA David Glaser, Company Sec. Austin Yeh, VP/Dir.-Oper. John Price, General Mgr.-Wholesale David James, CFO

Phone: 61-29-704-4177 Fax: 61-29-704-4201 Toll-Free: Address: P.O. Box 418, Auburn, New S. Wales, Australia 2144, Internet Address: www.bbqgalore.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $140,300 1998 Sales: $121,600 1997 Sales: $117,100 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: BBQZY

1999 Profits: $3,200 1998 Profits: $2,400 1997 Profits: $ 400 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,029

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $ Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Offers a wide selection of barbeque related products.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

154

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

BARNES & NOBLE INC Industry Group Code: 4512 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Profits: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Barnes & Noble Booksellers B. Dalton Booksellers

10,000-60,000 2,800-6,000

$4,837,000 per store $958 per store

In-line Mall

520 489

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Book Stores, Retail Retail music In-store cafes Mall book stores CD-ROM retailer Book publishing

Barnes & Noble, Inc., the world’s largest bookseller, currently operates 504 superstores in 48 states and the District of Columbia and 507 mall-based bookstores in 45 states and the District of Columbia. The company’s superstore business operates under the Barnes & Nobles Booksellers, Bookstop and Bookstar trade names. Its mall-based business operates under the B. Dalton Bookseller, Doubleday Book Shops and Scribner’s Bookstore trade names. The company is the world’s largest supplier of books through direct-mail catalogs and publishes books under its own Barnes & Noble Books imprint for exclusive sale through its retail bookstores and mail-order catalogs. The company is also the exclusive bookseller in America Online’s Marketplace and maintains its own website (BarnesandNoble.com), operating the world’s largest bookseller on-line. Barnes & Noble is the only book retailer operating through all four channels of distribution: retail stores, the Internet, a toll-free number and mail order. The company recently completed its joint venture with Bertelsmann A.G. for a 50% stake in barnesandnoble.com. The Internet site has been completely redesigned and is making a major effort to gain market share. Also, the Internet unit has been changed into a full-standing company with seperately traded stock. Barnes & Noble also announced plans to open two new distribution centers in Reno and Atlanta. This rapidly-growing company is opening nearly 100 new stores yearly.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: B. Dalton Bookseller Barnes & Noble Booksellers Bookstop Bookstar Doubleday Book Shops Scribner's Bookstores Bertelsmann A.G. Ingram Book Group

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Leonard Riggio, CEO J. Alan Kahn, COO Marie J. Toulantis, Exec. VP-Finance Maureen H. Golden, VP-Mktg. and Advertising Mitchell S. Klipper, Pres.-Barnes & Noble Dev. Jeffrey M. Killeen, COO-BarnesandNoble.com Mary Ellen Keating, Sr. VP-Corp. Comm. and Public Affairs Thomas A. Tolworthy, Pres.-Barnes & Noble Dist.

Phone: 212-633-3300 Fax: 212-675-0413 Toll-Free: 1-800-843-2665 Address: 122 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY, 10011 Internet Address: www.barnesandnoble.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $3,005,600 1998 Sales: $2,796,900 1997 Sales: $2,448,124 1996 Sales: $1,976,900 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: BKS

1999 Profits: $92,400 1998 Profits: $53,200 1997 Profits: $51,225 1996 Profits: $-52,976 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 29,500

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $900,000 Second Exec. Salary: $460,000

Bonus: $540,000 Bonus: $276,000

Leading operator of book superstores in the U.S./Over 950 stores nationwide/Excellent on-line retailing site.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 3 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Farago+Partners, New York, NY; VSM Media, Inc., New York, NY

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

155

BATTERIES BATTERIES INC Industry Group Code: 4400 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 13

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 15

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Batteries, Batteries

Number of Stores: 4

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Battery Products, Retail Catalogs

Batteries Batteries, Inc. is a nationwide battery distribution business serving the commercial industrial and retail markets. The firm offers 23,000 battery products for laptop computers, cellular phones, camcorders, hearing aids, pagers and children's toys. It also designs and assembles battery packs, operates four Batteries Batteries retail stores in Arizona, and distributes about 4,500 cellular telephone products, accessories and components. Batteries Batteries is undertaking an effort to develop stronger domestic and international vendors to insure continuing supply of current and new battery and battery accessory products at competitive prices. The result of the recent acquisitions of Battery Network and Tauber, now being merged and reorganized, is intended to provide a more efficient nationwide distributor of high-end two-way radio, professional video, electronic, biomedical and OEM battery products. Batteries Batteries plans to enhance its engineering capabilities through additions of battery companies with technical capabilities to allow assembly of unique battery packs to address specific products or industry segments and to meet additional applications. The company is reviewing a number of prospective alliances in the Far East and Mexico to continue to reduce costs and improve the quality of items currently imported or purchased from U.S. sources. Batteries Batteries is an authorized dealer for numerous major battery manufacturers, including Panasonic, Gates Energy Products, Duracell, Sanyo, Varta and Saft.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Tauber Advanced Fox Batteries Batteries for Everything Battery Max Specific Energy Cliffco Battery Network

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Stephen Rade, Pres./CEO Ronald E. Badke, COO Ronald E. Badke, CFO

Phone: 212-223-1253 Fax: 212-223-2490 Toll-Free: Address: 711 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY, 10022 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $51,500 1997 Sales: $54,000 1996 Sales: $25,700 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: BATS

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-2,100 1997 Profits: $ 600 1996 Profits: $ 500 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

254

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $150,000 Second Exec. Salary: $128,269

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Plans to continue growth through strategic acquisitions.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

156

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

BEAUTICONTROL COSMETICS INC Industry Group Code: 45411 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 25

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 21

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Direct marketing only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Cosmetics/Beauty Supplies, Retail Apparel, retail

BeautiControl Cosmetics, Inc. manufactures and directly sells its skin care, nutritional supplements, cosmetics, nail care, toiletries, beauty supplements and related products through its force of independent consultants. The consultants who buy the products from BeautiControl and then sell them to independent consumers provide both product and image services to women across the United States, Taiwan, Canada, Puerto Rico and other emerging national markets. The company's health and beauty supplements line, Within Beauty, includes hair, nail and skin supplements as well as others. The company recently introduced several new products, including all new skin care and glamour product packaging, the Regeneration Gold lip therapy and Cell-Block C, a supplement that provides skin care protection. BeautiControl Cosmetics is focusing on expanding further into Asian markets following their introduction into the Taiwanese market. The recent addition of computer-aided beauty consulting techniques is putting the company ahead of its competition.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: REGENERATION ManMade Kidables MICRODERM Within Beauty

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Richard W. Heath, Pres./CEO J. Robert Ward-Burns, Exec. VP/COO M. Douglas Tucker, Sr. VP-Finance/CFO Clifton R. Sanders, Sr. VP- Research and Dev.

Phone: 972-458-0601 Fax: 972-490-7359 Toll-Free: Address: 2121 Midway, Carrollton, TX, 75006 Internet Address: www.beauticontrol.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $72,200 1997 Sales: $69,400 1996 Sales: $80,100 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: BUTI

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-3,200 1997 Profits: $ 100 1996 Profits: $5,400 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

364

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $575,000 Second Exec. Salary: $347,500

Bonus: $10,340 Bonus: $7,033

Growing name recognition/Shopping at home or through Beauticontrol parties.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

157

BEBE STORES INC Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 39

Profits: 19

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Bebe

2,700

$1,706,000 per store/$632 per sq. ft.

Mall

86

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel-Women's, Retail Accessories Handbags

Bebe designs, develops and produces a distinctive line of contemporary women’s apparel and accessories, which it markets under the Bebe and Bebe Moda brand names through its 86 specialty retail stores located in 21 states. While the company attracts a broad audience, its target customers are 18 to 35 year-old women who seek current fashion trends interpreted to suit their lifestyle needs. Much of the firm’s merchandise is designed and developed in-house and manufactured to its specifications. The company’s recent business endeavors include the opening of seven new stores. Bebe plans to open approximately 15 stores in the coming years, the majority in existing markets. In addition to its domestic expansion, Bebe is considering international expansion primarily through licensing arrangements and has entered into a license agreement with a company in Mexico. Other liscensing agreements includes one with Titan Industries for the manufacture and distribution of a Bebe footwear collection, and another with Genender International, Inc. to manufacture and distribute a watch collection. Bebe’s agreement with California Design Studio is for a signature eyewear line. Bebe recently opened its first store in the United Kingdom.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Bebe Bebe Moda Titan Industries Genender International, Inc. California Design Studio

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Manny Mashouf, CEO Manny Mashouf, Pres. Blair Lambert, VP-Finance/CFO Greg Scott, VP-Merch.

Phone: 415-715-3900 Fax: 415-715-3939 Toll-Free: Address: 380 Valley Dr., Brisbane, CA, 94005 Internet Address: www.bebe.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $146,800 1997 Sales: $95,100 1996 Sales: $71,600 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: BEBE

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $17,400 1997 Profits: $5,100 1996 Profits: $ 100 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,101

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $513,050 Second Exec. Salary: $198,066

Bonus: $1,050,000 Bonus: $60,000

Rapid expansion of product lines and store locations.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

158

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

BED BATH & BEYOND INC Industry Group Code: 44229 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Profits: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Bed, Bath & Beyond Superstores Bed, Bath & Beyond

30,000-over 80,000 7,000-11,000

$9,114,000 per store $2,387,000

Free-standing and In-line Mall

144 4

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Linens/Housewares, Retail Small appliances Home accessories

Bed Bath & Beyond is one of the nation’s largest operators of superstores, selling predominantly better quality domestics merchandise and home furnishings typically found in better department stores. The company offers a wide assortment of merchandise at everyday low prices substantially below department store prices and generally comparable to or below department store sale prices. Bed Bath & Beyond's domestics merchandise line includes items such as bed linens, bath accessories and kitchen textiles, and the company's home furnishings line includes items such as cookware, dinnerware, glassware and basic housewares. It offers a breadth and depth of selection in most of its product categories that far exceeds what is generally available in department stores or other specialty retail stores, enabling it to offer customers the convenience of one-stop shopping for most household items. The firm operates 148 stores in 29 states including 144 superstores and smaller stores that primarily carry domestic merchandise and home furnishings. Bed Bath & Beyond is engaged in an ongoing expansion program involving the opening of new stores in both existing and new markets and the expansion or replacement of existing stores with larger stores. The company recently opened 45 new superstores, entering for the first time the states of Delaware, Nebraska, South Carolina, Utah and Vermont. Bed Bath & Beyond empowers managers, giving them a chance to manage with respect to ordering merchandise, presentation, and which items to feature. This is one of the fastest-growing specialty retailers in the nation. New employees can move up rapidly to department manager status.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Bed & Bath Superstore BB & Beyond

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Leonard Feinstein, Co-CEO/Pres. Steven H. Temares, Exec. VP/COO Ronald Curwin, CFO Jonathan Rothstein, VP-Product Dev. and Mktg. Arthur Stark, Sr. VP-Merch. Allan Rauch, VP-Legal and General Counsel Michael Honeyman, VP-Admin. and Corp. Oper. Ronald Curwin, Treas. Phillip Kornbluh, VP-Visual Merch. Warren Eisenberg, Co-CEO

Phone: 908-688-0888 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 650 Liberty Avenue, Union, NJ, 07083 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $1,397,200 1998 Sales: $1,066,600 1997 Sales: $823,200 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $601,252

Stock Ticker: BBBY

1999 Profits: $97,300 1998 Profits: $73,100 1997 Profits: $55,000 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $67,585

Employees: 8,200

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $750,000 Second Exec. Salary: $292,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Everyday low prices on a very deep selection of merchandise.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Berenter Greenhouse & Webster, Inc. New York, NY

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

159

BEST BUY CO INC Industry Group Code: 443 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Profits: 3

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Best Buy

43,000

$29,700,000 per store/$684 per sq. ft.

In-line/Free-standing

284

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Electronics, Audio and Appliance Stores, Retail Retail music sales Computers Office supplies Retail video sales

Best Buy Co., Inc. is the nation's largest volume specialty retailer of name brand consumer electronics, home office equipment, entertainment software and appliances. It also sells cameras and other photographic equipment and ready to assemble furniture designed for use with computer and audio/video equipment. Recently the company utilized a portion of the space created by the reduction in recorded music to introduce books, magazines and fitness equipment to its product assortment. Best Buy recently increased its store count by 13%, with a net addition of 33 new stores and currently operates 284 stores from coast to coast. It plans to open an additional 25 new stores in the coming year which includes entry into the new markets of Nashville and Knoxville, Tennessee; Wausau, Wisconsin; Charleston, South Carolina; Reno, Nevada; and the New England states. The company also plans to expand or relocate another five stores. Best Buy's expansion strategy generally has been to enter major metropolitan areas with the simultaneous opening of several stores and then to expand into contiguous non-metropolitan markets. Recently, the firm's profitability was evidenced as Best Buy topped the Fortune 500's list for Highest Total Return to Investors with an increased 247% rate of return.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: BBC Property Co. BBC Investment Co. Best Buy Concepts, Inc. Best Buy Stores, L.P. Best Buy Online, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Richard Schulze, CEO Bradbury Anderson, COO/Pres. Allen Lenzmeier, CFO/Exec. VP Wade R. Fenn, Exec. VP-Mktg. Richard L. Lewis, Sr. VP-Human Resources Marc D. Gordon, Sr. VP-Info. Systems/CIO George Z. Lopuch, Sr. VP-Corp. Strategic Planning Robert C. Fox, Sr. VP-Finance/Treas. Julie M. Engel, Sr. VP-Advertising Michael P. Keskey, Sr. VP-Sales

Phone: 612-947-2000 Fax: 612-947-2422 Toll-Free: Address: 7075 Flying Cloud Drive, Eden Praire, MN, 55344 Internet Address: www.bestbuy.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $10,077,900 1998 Sales: $8,358,683 1997 Sales: $7,770,683 1996 Sales: $7,217,448 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: BBY

1999 Profits: $224,400 1998 Profits: $94,500 1997 Profits: $1,748 1996 Profits: $48,019 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 39,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $783,500 Second Exec. Salary: $590,300

Bonus: $803,250 Bonus: $504,260

Offers a self-service, non-commissioned discount style sales environment in a superstore setting/ Wellknown for everyday low prices on music CD's.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Best Buy Media, Eden Prairie, MN

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

160

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

BESTWAY INC Industry Group Code: 443 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 14

Profits: 8

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Bestway All Star Rental REJA

3,700

$398,000 per store/$107 per sq. ft.

In-line

65 15 8

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Rent-to-own Stores Furniture Electronics, audio, and appliances Household goods Jewelry

Bestway, Inc. owns and operates a total of 65 stores under its own name located in the states of Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee. The stores offer weekly and monthly rates on brand-name furniture, electronics, appliances, household goods and jewelry. These products are furnished to customers under full-service rental agreements which require that the charge for each rental period be paid in advance, but no additional advance payments or security deposits are required. The lease agreements also include purchase options for customers. Bestway markets its products and services by selecting prominent store locations in retail shopping areas on main traffic thoroughfares near targeted customers’ residences or job locations. Recent business developments include the disposition of Bestway Auto, and the acquisition of All Star Rental, Inc. consisting of 15 stores located in three states. Immediately following this acquisition, the company made a substantial investment in additional merchandise. Bestway also acquired eight stores located in two states from REJA, Inc.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Bestway All Star Rental REJA, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. R. Brooks Reed, CEO Teresa A. Sheffield, Pres./COO Beth A. Durrett, Sr. VP-Finance/CFO Don Barnheart, VP-Human Resources Joe R. McElroy, VP-Real Estate

Phone: 214-630-6655 Fax: 214-630-8404 Toll-Free: Address: 7800 Stemmons Freeway, Suite 320, Dallas, TX, 75247 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $25,900 1997 Sales: $24,700 1996 Sales: $18,900 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: BSTW

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $ 800 1997 Profits: $ 200 1996 Profits: $ 100 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

271

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $150,000 Second Exec. Salary: $116,307

Bonus: $ Bonus: $19,542

Realignment and acquisitions.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

161

BEYOND.COM Industry Group Code: 4541 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 12

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 11

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

on-line selling

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Internet software distribution Internet commerce services

The first company to offer software over the Internet, Beyond.com offers over 40,000 software titles to its customers through its Web site. Though it receives a quarter of its business through the United States government, the company has made marketing alliances with America Online, Excite and Netscape. Beyond.com operates several co-branded sites as well, such as CMP’s TechShopper Software Store and Computer Currents Interactive Software Shop. Beyond.com has developed technology to secure Internet transactions for secure transmission. In 1999, the company bought BuyDirect, a rival, for $134 million.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: TechShopper Software Store Computer Currents Interactive Software Shop BuyDirect

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Mark L. Breier, CEO/Pres. James Lussier, VP-Business Oper. Michael J. Praisner, VP-Finance/CFO Brian Sroub, VP-Mktg. John P. Pettit, Exec. VP/Chief Tech. Officer Gordon F. Jones, CIO Mala Anand, VP-Engineering Michael J. Praisner, VP-Admin. John D. Vigouroux, VP-Business Dev. William Headapohl, VP-Software and Digital Delivery Laura Fulda, VP-Investor Relations Alan C. DeClerck, VP-Sales William C. Holtzman, VP-Site Mktg.

Phone: 408-616-4200 Fax: 408-530-0800 Toll-Free: Address: 1195 W. Fremont Avenue, Sunnyvale, CA, 94087 Internet Address: www.beyond.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $36,700 1997 Sales: $16,800 1996 Sales: $5,900 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: BYND

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-31,100 1997 Profits: $-5,300 1996 Profits: $-1,500 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

137

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $150,000 Second Exec. Salary: $141,000

Bonus: $37,500 Bonus: $ 100

First to offer software over the Internet.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

162

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

BIG DOG HOLDINGS INC Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 45

Profits: 33

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Big Dogs-Outlet

2,700-3,000

$568,000 per store

In-line

177

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel Stores, Retail Accessories Gift items Activewear Casual sportswear

Big Dog Holdings, Inc. develops, markets and retails a branded collection of unique, high-quality products including activewear, casual sportswear, accessories and gifts. The company’s collection is centered around its signature BIG DOGS name, logo and Big Dog characters which are designed to appeal to a broad range of customers. It has successfully introduced and expanded its LITTLE BIG DOGS line of infants’ and children’s apparel and its BIG BIG DOGS line of Big and Tall apparel. Big Dog Holdings also expanded its non-apparel products, including plush animals, stationary and pet products which feature Big Dog graphics and are developed to complement its apparel. The firm currently operates 176 stores in 41 states and one store in England. Big Dog's stores are typically located in tourist and recreation-oriented shopping locations and other casual environments. The company operates in both outlet and full-price format. It has enhanced its corporate website to offer a few products for sale through Yahoo! Shopping. In addition to its retail stores, Big Dogs markets its products through other channels, including its catalog, better wholesale accounts and Internet sales.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Big Dog USA, Inc. Little Big Dogs Big Big Dogs

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Andrew D. Feshbach, CEO Andrew D. Feshbach, Pres. Roberta Morris, CFO David R. Wolf, VP-Sales and Mktg. Doug N. Nilsen, Exec. VP-Merch. Franklin S. Grosvenor, VP-Oper. Anthony J. Wall, Exec. VP-Business Affairs Roberta Morris, Treas. Andrew W. Wadhams, Exec. VP-Retail

Phone: 805-963-8727 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 121 Gray Avenue, Santa Barbara, CA, 93101 Internet Address: www.bigdogs.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $100,700 1997 Sales: $86,200 1996 Sales: $68,700 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: BDOG

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $4,000 1997 Profits: $2,700 1996 Profits: $ 600 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,050

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $233,000 Second Exec. Salary: $175,000

Bonus: $75,000 Bonus: $20,000

Unique logo/Unique positioning.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

163

BIG ENTERTAINMENT INC Industry Group Code: 45112 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 8

Profits: 9

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

BIG Entertainment

466/3,000

$284,000 per store

Mall

4 mall store; 24 kiosks

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Movie-related Merchandise, Retail Illustrated novels publishing Development of entertainment properties Book licensing and packaging Franchising New media

BIG Entertainment, Inc. is a publicly held, diversified entertainment company that, in addition to its retail entertainment division, owns exclusive rights in all media to certain entertainment properties created by such celebrities as Tom Clancy, Leonard Nimoy, Arthur C. Clarke, Gene Roddenberry, Isaac Asimov and Mickey Spillane. The company uses illustrated novels to introduce and develop its intellectual properties, including characters and storylines, as a means of exploring the licensing potential of these properties across all media including films, television, books, multimedia software, toys and other merchandise. BIG Entertainment operates a retail store at Mall of America and more than 27 Entertainment Super-Kiosks at major malls. The kiosks are similar to semi-circular newsstands and feature a bank of TV monitors. They feature merchandise like Star Wars tee shirts, Batman action figures and collectibles based on such movies as Star Trek and Superman. The company recently formed a 50/50 joint venture called NetCo Partners with C.P. Group, in which Tom Clancy is a substantial shareholder, to create an entertainment partnership that will engage in the publishing and licensing of its characters and properties in a wide variety of entertainment media formats. BIG Entertainment also made an exclusive agreement with ABC Television to show ABC programming on monitors in malls.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: NetCo Partners Tekno Books

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Mitchell Rubenstein, CEO Laurie S. Silvers, Pres.

Phone: 561-998-8000 Fax: 561-998-2974 Toll-Free: Address: 2255 Glades Road,Suite 237 West, Boca Raton, FL, 33431 Internet Address: www.bige.com/index.html Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $11,100 1997 Sales: $10,500 1996 Sales: $7,600 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: BIGE

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-10,700 1997 Profits: $-3,000 1996 Profits: $-6,700 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

86

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $185,217 Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $25,000 Bonus: $

Owns exclusive rights in all media to certain entertainment properties created by best-selling authors and media celebrities.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: BIG Advertising, Boca Raton, FL

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

164

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

BIOZHEM COSMECEUTICALS Industry Group Code: 44612 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 4

Profits: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Biozhem Skin Care Center

7,000-1,000

$165,000 per store

In-line

7

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Cosmetics/Beauty Supplies, Retail Skin care products

Biozhem Cosmecueticals, Inc., formerly known as Entourage International, Inc., is engaged primarily in the sale of Biozhem Skin Care Products. The company’s primary products are a series of skin care formulations marketed and sold using the name Biozhem. Sales in the Biozhem product line consist primarily of the five-step Woman’s Skin Care System. This five-step process is specially formulated to clean and condition the skin, consists of natural ingredients and is free of ingredients known to be damaging to the skin. Biozhem skin care products are marketed through seven company-owned retail stores, one franchised store and one licensed retail store. The firm developed extensive training materials to acquaint retail store employees with effective sales techniques and the various aspects of the company’s products. Recently, Biozhem acquired Biogime Franchise Services USA, Inc. In addition to selling cosmeceutical products, the company is positioned to market directly to the consumer through a national direct response Infomercial and through a web page on the Internet.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: BFS Acquisition Corp. Biogime Franchise Services (USA), Inc. Woman's Skin Care System

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. John C. Riemann, CEO John C. Riemann, Pres.

Phone: 949-488-2184 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 32240 Paseo Adelanto Suite A, San Juan Capistrano, CA, 92675 Internet Address: www.biozhem.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $1,161 1997 Sales: $1,157 1996 Sales: $1,179 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: BZHM

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $- 534 1997 Profits: $- 191 1996 Profits: $ 179 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

12

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $100,000 Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Markets successful skin-care systems.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

165

BJ'S WHOLESALE CLUB INC Industry Group Code: 45291 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 3

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

BJ's Wholesale Club(Large Format) BJ's Wholesale Club-small format

112,000 69,000

Profits: 6

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line

82 14

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Warehouse Clubs & Superstores, Retail

BJ’s Wholesale Club, Inc. introduced the wholesale club concept to the northeastern United States in the mid1980’s. The chain has expanded its operations to thirteen states from Maine to Florida. It currently operates 96 clubs and two cross-dock distribution centers. The company recently became an independent entity following a spin-off from Waban Inc., its former parent company. BJ's continues to grow and achieved seven consecutive years of improvements in operating income. It chooses to locate clubs in suburban markets where rents and operating costs are lower than in metropolitan areas, and where the local population includes a high percentage of potential members whose upscale profile matches BJ’s typical customer. New programs emphasizing produce, seasonal candy and confections, better wines and specialty frozen food items contribute to incremental sales. Health and beauty aids, a category that was successfully expanded recently, generates very strong sales and will continue to be expanded. The company plans to take initiatives in emphasizing perishables, refinements to package size that have the potential to neutralize the effects of deflation in food and continued cooperation with vendors to improve packaging to facilitate further efficiency.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Natick Security Corp. Mormax Beverage Corp. CWC Beverage Corp. FWC Beverage Corp. JWC Beverage Corp. RWC Beverage Corp. YWC Beverage Corp. BJ's Export, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. John J. Nugent, CEO John J. Nugent, Pres. Frank D. Forward, Exec. VP/CFO Edward F. Gillooly, Sr. VP-Mktg. Thomas Davis III, VP-Human Resources Laura J. Sen, Exec. VP-Merch. Michael T. Wedge, Exec. VP-Club Oper.

Phone: 508-651-7400 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 1 Mercer Road, Natick, MA, 01760 Internet Address: www.bjswholesale.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $3,552,200 1998 Sales: $3,226,500 1997 Sales: $2,992,800 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: BJ

1999 Profits: $62,500 1998 Profits: $68,300 1997 Profits: $53,600 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 11,600

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $505,769 Second Exec. Salary: $488,462

Bonus: $230,141 Bonus: $308,486

Specialty/better food additions contribute to rising sales.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Eric Haggman, Ipswich, MA; Wallwork Curry, Boston, MA

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

166

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

BLAIR CORPORATION Industry Group Code: 45411 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 13

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Blair Blair Outlet Store Catalogs

11,765 38,600-53,250

Profits: 6

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores: 2 2

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel Stroes, Retail Linens/housewares Direct mail merchandising

Blair Corporation markets a wide range of merchandise manufactured by a number of independent suppliers, both domestic and foreign. Blair sells fashion apparel for men and women, plus a wide range of home products, primarily through direct mail merchandising. The rapid and continuing development of catalog marketing across all three merchandise lines-Womenswear, Menswear, and Home Products-is essential to the company’s goal of adding a younger generation of shoppers to the customer file. Most potential customers in Blair's target market prefer catalogs to circular letter-style mailings. In addition, the firm’s 800 telephone service for both order entry and customer service is very successful. Blair recently opened its first call center in Pennsylvania, enabling the company to internally process more than 7 million calls.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Blair Warehouse Outlet Blair Retail Store

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Murray K. McComas, CEO Murray K. McComas, Pres. Kent R. Sivillo, CFO John A. Lasher, VP-Advertising Thomas P. McKeever, VP-Human Resources Michael J. Samargya, VP-Info. Services Thomas P. McKeever, VP-Corp. Affairs Kent R. Sivillo, Treas. Steven M. Blair, VP-Order Handling John E. Zawacki, VP-Womenswear

Phone: 814-723-3600 Fax: 814-726-6123 Toll-Free: 800-458-6057 Address: 220 Hickory Street, Warren, PA, 16366-0001 Internet Address: www.blair.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $506,800 1997 Sales: $486,600 1996 Sales: $544,100 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: BL

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $22,300 1997 Profits: $13,300 1996 Profits: $14,700 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 2,300

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $500,352 Second Exec. Salary: $365,971

Bonus: $49,252 Bonus: $29,882

Expansion through direct marketing.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: JLB Advertising, Warren, PA

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

167

BLUE RHINO CORPORATION Industry Group Code: 4400 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 14

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 16

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Grill Cylinder Exchange Provider Exchange of proprane cylinders for gas grills

Blue Rhino is a leading provider of grill cylinder exchange in the US, with cylinder exchange displays at over 9,500 retail locations in 46 states and Puerto Rico. Cylinder exchange provides consumers with a convenient means to exchange empty grill cylinders for clean, safer precisionfilled cylinders. Blue Rhino cylinder exchange is offered at many of the major homecenter/hardware, mass merchant, grocery and convenience stores such as HomeDepot, Lowe’s, Sears Hardware, Wal-Mart, Kroger and SuperAmerica. The company partners retailers and independent distributors to provide consumers with a nationally branded product as an alternative to traditional grill cylinder refill. The company is focused on promoting its Blue Rhino brand through retailers and leveraging its network of 53 independent propane distributors. The firm recently completed 15 acquisitions of regional cylinder exchange providers, adding over 2,200 retail locations. Blue Rhino also signed a letter of intent to purchase Illinois-based Bison Valve and entered into a strategic alliance with Tennessee-based Manchester Tank Corporation, a manufacturer of propane grill cylinders. The company’s business strategy is to continue to build its national brand and capitalize on its position as the leading grill cylinder exchange provider through promoting the Blue Rhino brand and driving consumer awareness.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Blue Rhino Bison Valve Manchester Tank Corporation

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Billy D. Prim, CEO Billy D. Prim, Pres. Mark Castaneda, CFO Richard E. Belmont, VP-Sales and Mktg. Kay B. Martin, VP/CIO Joseph T. Culp, VP-Partner Dev.

Phone: 336-659-6900 Fax: 336-659-6750 Toll-Free: Address: 104 Cambridge Plaza Dr., Winston-Salem, NC, 27104 Internet Address: www.bluerhino.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $27,400 1997 Sales: $14,200 1996 Sales: $8,200 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: RINO

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-2,400 1997 Profits: $-5,600 1996 Profits: $-7,400 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

56

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $218,538 Second Exec. Salary: $112,708

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Rapid Expansion/Unique service offers convenient exchange of gas cylinders.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

168

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

BOMBAY COMPANY INC (THE) Industry Group Code: 421 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 4

Profits: 5

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

The Bombay Company

2,500-4000

$865,000 per store/$216 sq. ft.

Mall

412

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Furniture Stores, Retail Prints Accessories

A specialty retailer, The Bombay Company, Inc. markets bedroom furniture, prints and accessories through a network of 400 retail stores in the United States and Canada. The mall-located stores additionally feature furniture and accessories for the dining room, home office and living room, as well as a number of impulse-buy items like nifty candles, baskets, blankets, trinkets and lamps. Stores are one of two formats: large or small, with the large format stores reaching up to 4,000 square feet and the smaller format stores peaking at around 2,500 square feet. The company earns approximately 45% of its revenue from new products introduced recently, nearly doubling revenues of that nature. The Bombay company utilizes a substantial mailing list and captures customers’ names and addresses at the time of purchase. The company is continuing to provide a more customeroriented store which includes improved presentation, new signage programs, better in-stock positions, more effective management and training in the field and improved communications. Catalog and Internet sales along with recently introduced methods of marketing are helping The Bombay Company to reach a broader audience base.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES:

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Robert S. Jackson, CEO Carmie Mehrlander, Pres./COO Elaine D. Crowley, VP-Finance Cathy S. Pringle, VP-Mktg. James D. Johnson, VP-Human Resources Steven C. Woodward, Sr. VP-Merch. Elaine D. Crowley, Treas.

Phone: 817-347-8200 Fax: 817-339-3784 Toll-Free: Address: 550 Bailey Avenue, Suite 700, Fort Worth, TX, 76107 Internet Address: www.bombayco.com/ Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $356,700 1998 Sales: $332,600 1997 Sales: $336,300 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: BBA

1999 Profits: $4,000 1998 Profits: $4,500 1997 Profits: $-2,000 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 5,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $415,000 Second Exec. Salary: $300,000

Bonus: $160,000 Bonus: $150,000

Focus on reasonably-priced reproductions of fine traditional furniture

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Bombay, Fort Worth, TX

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

169

BON-TON STORES INC (THE) Industry Group Code: 4521 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 17

Profits: 16

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Bon-Ton

45,000-160,000

$10,382,000 per store

Malls/In-line

65

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Department Stores, Retail

The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. operates 65 quality fashion department stores in secondary markets with 35 stores in Pennsylvania, 24 in New York, three stores in Maryland, and one store in each of West Virginia and New Jersey. The company’s strategy focuses on being the premier fashion retailer in smaller markets that demand better branded merchandise. It is the primary destination for branded fashion merchandise from top designers such as Calvin Klein, Liz Claiborne, Nautica, Ralph Lauren, and Tommy Hilfiger. Bon-Ton provides an in-depth selection of high-quality, well-known branded merchandise at competitive prices in upscale shopping environments. Its stores offer moderate and better fashion apparel, home furnishings, cosmetics, accessories, shoes and other items. Recently, the company agreed to acquire the leasehold interest of JC Penney and plans to open a new Bon-Ton store in Coventry Mall in North Coventry Township, PA. Bon Ton recently announced an opening of a department store in the Glens Falls trading area at the Aviation Matt in Queensbury, N.Y. The firm hopes to further its growth strategy with the expansion of existing stores in Hagerstown, MD and Butler, PA and the remodeling of two stores in Pennsylvania. Together with the opening of a new store in Westfield, MA, these initiatives will increase the company’s square footage by approximately 300,000 gross square feet, further reinforcing The Bon-Ton’s commitment to strengthening its presence in under-served secondary markets.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Bon-Ton

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Heywood L. Wilansky, Pres./CEO Michael L. Gleim, COO James H. Baireuther, Sr. VP/CFO William T. Harmon, Sr. VP-Sales Promotion and Mktg. Theodore C. Johnson, Jr., Sr. VP-Human Resources Patrick J. McIntyre, Sr. VP/CIO Douglas G. Lamm, Exec. VP-Softlines Merch. Ryan J. Sattler, Sr. VP-Oper.

Phone: 717-757-7660 Fax: 717-751-3198 Toll-Free: Address: P.O. Box 2821, York, PA, 17405 Internet Address: www.bonton.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $674,900 1998 Sales: $656,400 1997 Sales: $626,482 1996 Sales: $607,357 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: BONT

1999 Profits: $11,200 1998 Profits: $9,300 1997 Profits: $6,811 1996 Profits: $-9,203 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 8,600

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $800,000 Second Exec. Salary: $414,417

Bonus: $264,000 Bonus: $132,000

Strong geographic presence.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

170

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

BOOKS A MILLION INC Industry Group Code: 4512 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 3

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Books-A-Million Bookland

4,500 3,500-4,500

Profits: 3

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Mall Mall

124 49

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Book Stores, Retail

A leading book retailer, Books-A-Million, Inc. is one of the dominant players in the southeastern U.S. Founded in 1917, the company developed three distinct store formats to address the various market areas it serves: superstores under the name Books-A-Million, combination book and greeting card stores under the name Bookland, and traditional bookstores also operated under the name Bookland. The company has 124 Book-A-Million superstores, 49 combination stores and traditional bookstores. This firm plans to build about 20 new superstores during 1998. The company strengthens its competitive strategy through a regional focus. Books-AMillion carries selections often not available at competing bookstores. Recently, the company opened 26 superstores, most of them located in southeastern markets. Recent store enhancements include Joe Muggs, an expresso and coffee bar presently in 56 of its popular superstores and expanded children's book areas called Kids-A-Million. This is one of the faster-growing retail chains in the nation. Despite the popularity of electronic publishing, book industry sales are booming, and Books A Million is well positioned to prosper in this environment.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Books-A-Million Read & Save Rebate Bookland Books & Co. Book$mart American Wholesale Book Company, Inc. Joe Muggs Kids-A-Million

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Clyde B. Anderson, Pres./CEO R. Lew Burdette, Exec. VP/COO Sandra B. Cochran, Exec. VP/CFO Tempie Brunson, Dir.-Human Resources Terrance Finley, Sr. VP-Merch.

Phone: 205-942-3737 Fax: 205-945-1772 Toll-Free: Address: 402 Industrial Lane, Birmingham, AL, 35211 Internet Address: www.booksamillion.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $347,900 1998 Sales: $324,800 1997 Sales: $278,600 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: BAMM

1999 Profits: $4,500 1998 Profits: $7,000 1997 Profits: $5,800 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 4,300

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $297,000 Second Exec. Salary: $190,000

Bonus: $29,700 Bonus: $23,400

A leading book retailer in the southeast/Discount prices.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: O2 ideas, Birmingham, AL

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

171

BORDERS GROUP INC Industry Group Code: 4512 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Profits: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Borders-books and music Books, etc. Waldenbooks

27,000 2,000-5,000 3,300

$1,518,229 per store

In-line/Free-standing Free-standing Mall

256 26 885

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Book Stores, Retail Music retailing Virtual bookselling Cards

Based upon sales figures and numbers of stores, Borders Group, Inc. is the second largest operator of book superstores and the largest operator of mall-based bookstores in the U.S. The company operates 256 superstores under the Borders name, including one in Singapore, 885 mall-based and other bookstores primarily under the Waldenbooks name and in the United Kingdom, 26 bookstores under the Books Etc. name. Borders is a premier operator of book and music superstores, offering customers selection and service that are superior to other book superstore operators. The company recently opened 46 new Borders book and music superstores. Each Borders superstore offers customers a vast assortment of books, superior customer service, value pricing and a comfortable environment designed to encourage browsing. 200 of the 204 stores feature an espresso bar. Walden is a leading operator of mall-based bookstores. Walden operates alternative mall-based bookstores utilizing a large format. The company also recently acquired Books Etc., a London-based retailer of books and related products. This acquisition, coupled with the opening of a Borders store in Singapore, marketed the company’s entrance into the international market for books. Books Etc. currently operates 23 stores in the U.K., all of which are small-format stores. The company, through its subsidiary, Borders Online, Inc., expects to launch its Internet commerce site, Borders.com. This site will offer customers a wide selection of books, music and videos available for purchase on-line.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Borders, Inc. Walden Book Company, Inc. Planet Music, Inc. Books, etc. Borders Online, Inc. Borders.com

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Robert F. DiRomualdo, CEO Bruce A. Quinnell, Pres./COO Kenneth E. Scheve, Sr. VP/CFO Timothy J. Hopkins, Pres.-Mktg. and Dist. Timothy J. Hopkins, Pres.-Merch.

Phone: 313-913-1100 Fax: 313-913-1965 Toll-Free: Address: 500 East Washington Street, Ann Arbor, MI, 48104 Internet Address: www.borders.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $2,595,000 1998 Sales: $2,266,000 1997 Sales: $1,958,800 1996 Sales: $1,749,000 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: BGP

1999 Profits: $92,100 1998 Profits: $80,200 1997 Profits: $57,900 1996 Profits: $-211,100 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 24,300

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $220,000 Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $176,000 Bonus: $

Largest operator of mall-based bookstores.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Butler, Shine & Stern, Sausalito, CA

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

172

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

BOWLIN OUTDOOR ADVERTISING & TRAV CTRS INC Industry Group Code: 45322 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 6

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 4

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Travel centers

14

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Outdoor Advertising, Retail Retail gift and food centers for travelers

Bowlin Outdoor Advertising and Travel Centers, Inc. is a regional leader in the operation of travel centers and outdoor advertising displays in rural and smaller metropolitan areas of the southwestern United States. The company currently operates 14 full-service travel centers and one freestanding Dairy Queen/Brazier restaurant along interstate highways in Arizona and New Mexico. Its travel centers offer brand name food and gasoline to the traveling public, as well as unique southwestern merchandise. In addition, the company operates more than 1,780 outdoor advertising display faces for hotels and motels, restaurants and consumer products. These display faces are strategically located along interstate highways in Arizona and New Mexico, and in Colorado, Texas and Oklahoma. Bowlin offers customized design and production services to its clients. Several recent acquisitions were made including the outdoor advertising division of The McCarty Company (known as Pony Panels), General Outdoor Advertising, Mesa Outdoor Advertising and Sweezy Outdoor Advertising. In addition, the company also acquired BigTex Advertising, Inc., Edgar Outdoor Advertising and Faris Outdoor Advertising. The purchase of the operations of Big-Tex Advertising adds 85 painted bulletin and 30-sheet poster faces to the company’s Texas inventory. The purchase of Edgar adds 62 painted bulletin faces and brings the total number of display faces in this area of Texas to 550, expanding market penetration with the addition of three new counties. The purchase of Faris adds 132 interstate and highway bulletin faces.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Dairy Queen/Brazier Stuckey's Dairy Queen

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Michael L. Bowlin, Pres./CEO C. Christopher Bess, Exec. VP/COO Nina J. Pratz, Chief Admin. Officer Nina J. Pratz, Treas.

Phone: 505-266-5985 Fax: 505-266-7821 Toll-Free: Address: 150 Louisiana NE, Albuquerque, NM, 87108 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $30,300 1998 Sales: $27,200 1997 Sales: $24,800 1996 Sales: $19,600 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: BWLN

1999 Profits: $ 700 1998 Profits: $1,100 1997 Profits: $ 900 1996 Profits: $ 500 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

266

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $136,000 Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Owns more than 1700 billboards.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

173

BRADLEES INC Industry Group Code: 45291 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 8

Profits: 19

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Bradlees

76,500-90,000

$13,540,000 per store

In-line

102

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Discount Stores, Retail

Along with its Bradlee's Stores subsidiary, Bradlee's, Inc. operates 103 discount department stores--something the company's been doing for over 30 years. The stores, located in the northeastern portion of the United States, focus on offering family apparel, home furnishings and other value-priced consumer goods. Recently, the company began implementing a number of plans in order to improve customer service and enhance profitability. Bradlee's reduced costly promotional events, reintroduced lower opening price points in a comprehensive variety of merchandise categories, reintroduced certain products typically found in a comparable store, revised the company's markdown policy, modified print advertising and introduced a Certified Value program. This particular program highlights certain pieces of merchandise offered at an everyday low price. A Wow! program was additionally introduced, integrating advertised and unadvertised opportunistic purchases. The company is also focusing on improving operating efficiencies-Bradlee's has closed several stores within the past two years. The company, which began operating under Chapter 11 Bankruptcy protection in 1995, emerged in 1998.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Bradlee's Stores Mrs. B

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Peter Thorner, CEO Robert G. Lynn, COO/Pres. Cornelius F. Moses III, Sr. VP/CFO Mark E. James, Sr. VP-Mktg. Gregory K. Dieffenbach, Sr. VP-Human Resources Bruce Conforto, Sr. VP/CIO James C. Sparks, Sr. VP/General Merch. Mgr.-Softlines Judith Dunning, Sr. VP-Planning and Allocation Sandra L. Smith, Sr. VP/General Merch. Mgr.-Hardlines

Phone: 781-380-8324 Fax: 781-380-8096 Toll-Free: Address: One Bradlees Circle, Braintree, MA, 02184 Internet Address: www.bradlees.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $1,337,000 1998 Sales: $1,344,444 1997 Sales: $1,561,718 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: BLE

1999 Profits: $285,900 1998 Profits: $-22,557 1997 Profits: $-218,759 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 10,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $741,827 Second Exec. Salary: $401,827

Bonus: $299,063 Bonus: $196,875

Has a large market share in the Northeast.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Mason & Kichar Recruitment Advertising, Woodbridge, CT

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

174

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

BRAUN'S FASHIONS CORPORATION Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 46

Profits: 32

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Brauns

3,400

$538,000 per store/$158 per sq. ft.

Mall

185

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel-Women's, Retail

Braun’s Fashions Corporation is a Minneapolis-based regional retailer of women’s specialty apparel that operates through its wholly owned subsidiary, Braun’s Fashions, Inc. The company currently operates a chain of 185 stores in 20 states, primarily in the midwest. Most stores are mall based and located in mid-sized markets. Braun’s target customer is a 35-to-55 year old working woman with an annual family income of $35,000 to $75,000 who live in mid-sized cities of the upper midwest. The company recently increased its merchandise emphasis on sweaters and discontinued the sale of coats in its stores. It uses carefully designed front-of-store displays to draw customers into the store. To keep its fashions fresh, Braun’s introduces a new color store every 10 to 12 weeks.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Brauns Gigi Eurosport Exparte Christopher & Banks

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Nicholas H. Cook, CEO Joseph E. Pennington, Exec. VP/COO Andrew K. Moller, VP-Finance/CFO Kathryn R. Gangstee, Sr. VP/General Merch. Mgr. Ralph C. Neal, Exec. VP-Store Oper. Nancy C. Scott, VP-Real Estate and Construction

Phone: 612-551-5000 Fax: 612-551-5199 Toll-Free: Address: 2400 Xenium Lane North, Plymouth, MN, 55441 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $110,100 1998 Sales: $99,500 1997 Sales: $95,900 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: BFCIQ

1999 Profits: $6,200 1998 Profits: $4,400 1997 Profits: $- 600 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,550

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $240,000 Second Exec. Salary: $210,000

Bonus: $121,794 Bonus: $121,794

Offers frequent shopper and preferred customer programs.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

175

BROOKSTONE INC Industry Group Code: 45322 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 3

Profits: 3

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Brookstone

3,400

$1,373,000 per store/$403 per sq. ft.

Mall/In-line

198

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Personal Care Products Household products Leisure and recreational products Specialty tools Catalogs

Brookstone Inc. is a nationwide specialty retailer with merchandise that includes personal care products, lawn and garden tools, household products, leisure and recreational products and specialty tools. It competes with Sharper Image, but places less emphasis on electronic items. In addition to its 198 stores, Brookstone operates two holiday kiosks and two mail order catalogs including its traditional Hard-To-Find Tools catalog and its Brookstone catalog. The company also has an interactive website. The Hard-To-Find Tools catalog features a broad assortment of approximately 500 products. Most of the products are primarily sold directly to the end-user. The company’s Brookstone Collection catalog is usually distributed before Father’s Day and Christmas, the company’s two busiest selling seasons. The company also promotes products via SkyMall. Recently, the company created an Internet-based commerce-enabled site at www.Brookstoneonline.com, featuring an offering of current products from both catalogs. On-line shopping is accessible through www.Brookstone.com and www.Brookstoneonline.com. In addition, 18 new stores were opened. The company plans to open another 20 to 25 stores as well. Three of the new stores opened were in major U.S. airports. The company plans to open up nine airport stores in the near future.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Brookstone

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Michael F. Anthony, CEO Michael F. Anthony, Pres. Philip W. Roizin, Exec. VP-Finance and Admin. Steven C. Strickland, VP-Mktg. Jo-Ann B. Karalus, VP-Human Resources Scott R. Ornstein, VP/General Merch. Mgr. Alexander M. Winiecki, Sr. VP-Store Oper.

Phone: 603-577-8030 Fax: 603-577-8005 Toll-Free: Address: 17 Riverside Street, Nashua, NH, 03062 Internet Address: www.brookstoneonline.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $271,900 1998 Sales: $239,900 1997 Sales: $218,000 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: BKST

1999 Profits: $9,300 1998 Profits: $7,300 1997 Profits: $5,900 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 2,076

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $400,000 Second Exec. Salary: $210,000

Bonus: $243,735 Bonus: $64,635

Very unique merchandise.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Keller Crescent Co., Evansville, IN

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

176

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

BRUNO'S INC Industry Group Code: 4451 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 15

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Bruno's Food World FoodMax Food Fair

53,000 44,000 45,000 29,000

Profits: 35

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Free-standing Free-standing Free-standing Free-standing

25 72 31 21

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Grocery Stores/Supermarkets, Retail

The largest supermarket operator in the state of Alabama, Bruno’s, Inc. operates over 165 supermarkets under the FoodMax, Food World, Food Fair and Bruno’s names. Stores are scattered throughout Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Tennessee and Mississippi, and offer an expanded mix of general merchandise products as well as the expected grocery fare. Several stores sport extras, such as pharmacies, banks, photography departments and optical centers. In January of 1998, the company entered into an agreement in which the Seessel’s portion of the business was sold over to Albertson’s, Inc. Bruno’s, Inc. subsequently sold 13 stores in Georgia to Ingles Markets, Inc., and purchased four stores from Delchamps, Inc. In accordance with this portion of the transaction, Bruno’s closed down three of its stores and converted the purchased Delchamps stores into Bruno’s locations. The company is currently continuing to evaluate its existing stores in an effort to identify stores that would benefit from relocation or closing. Evaluation of population shifts, zoning changes, traffic patterns and the proximity of competitive stores helps Bruno’s determine when and where new locations should be opened, and if existing locations should remain as such. The company is currently operating under Chapter 11 Bankruptcy Protection.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Food World FoodMax Bruno's Piggly Wiggly Delchamp's, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. James A. Demme, CEO James A. Demme, Pres. Arthur B. McCarter, Sr. VP/CFO Steve Slade, Exec. VP- Mktg. Laura Hayden, Sr. VP-Human Resources Bruce A. Efird, Sr. VP-Merch. William D. Shoemaker, Sr. VP-Oper.

Phone: 205-940-9400 Fax: 205-912-4534 Toll-Free: Address: 800 Lakeshore Parkway, Birmingham, AL, 35211 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $1,883,200 1998 Sales: $2,560,271 1997 Sales: $2,899,044 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: BRNO

1999 Profits: $-52,400 1998 Profits: $-155,903 1997 Profits: $-51,189 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 12,700

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $275,002 Second Exec. Salary: $266,669

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Largest supermarket operator in Alabama.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: O2 ideas, Birmingham, AL

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

177

BRYLANE INC Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 7

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 10

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Catalog Only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel Stores, Retail

Brylane Inc., a subsidiary of Pinault-Printemps-Redoute, is a leading catalog seller of men’s and women’s specialsized apparel with over 22 million customers and nine catalogs. The company’s Lane Bryant and Roaman’s catalogs sell women’s clothing, Lerner and Chadwick’s of Boston offer misses’ wear, and KingSize and Brett offer men’s apparel. In addition to its own catalogs, Brylane also markets catalogs through an agreement with Sears. The company’s clothing lines focus on limited fashion risk apparel with a large selection of sizes, styles and colors. The most recent news for Brylane is the possible completion of an acquisition by the French retailer PinaultPrintemps-Redoute which currently owns 50% of Brylane and would like to purchase the company’s remaining stock.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Lane Bryant Roaman Lerner Chadwick's of Boston King Size Brett Pinault-Printemps-Redoute

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Peter J. Canzone, CEO Peter J. Canzone, Pres. Robert A. Pulciani, CFO/Exec. VP Bruce G. Clark, Sr. VP-Telemarketing Richard L. Bennett, Sr. VP-Human Resources William G. Brosius, Sr. VP-Oper./Customer Service Jules Silbert, Sr. VP-Mktg./New Business Dev. Robert A. Pulciani, Treas.

Phone: 212-613-9500 Fax: 211-613-9690 Toll-Free: Address: 463 Seventh Ave., New York, NY, 10018 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $1,328,400 1998 Sales: $1,314,839 1997 Sales: $705,353 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker:

1999 Profits: $10,500 1998 Profits: $47,035 1997 Profits: $26,952 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 6,400

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $577,917 Second Exec. Salary: $400,583

Bonus: $326,332 Bonus: $208,783

Offers specialty-sized apparel.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Sisman Design, New York, NY; Harte-Hanks Direct, New York, NY

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

178

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

BUCKLE INC (THE) Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 29

Profits: 14

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Brass Buckle/The Buckle

4,700

$1,522,000 per store/$324 per sq. ft.

In-line/Mall

222

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel Stores, Retail Children's clothes

The Buckle, Inc. is a retailer of medium to better-priced casual apparel for fashion conscious young men and women. The company currently operates 203 retail stores in 27 states throughout the central United States, as well as in the northwestern and southwestern states under the name Brass Buckle and The Buckle. The Buckle markets a wide selection of mostly brand name casual apparel. The company emphasizes personalized attention to its customers and provides individual customer services such as free alterations, free gift-wrapping, easy layaways and a frequent shopper program. The store decor and fixtures were recently redesigned to provide an appealing, up-todate appearance. The design presents a unique atmosphere in which the store’s architectural elements, including feature display walls, provide a backdrop, creating a stronger visual presentation for the customer. The fixtures that were redesigned help enhance the merchandise presentation within the stores. Many new jobs are being created here, as Buckle opens as many as two new stores per month.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Brass Buckle The Buckle

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Dennis H. Nelson, CEO Dennis H. Nelson, Pres. Karen B. Rhoads, VP-Finance/CFO Jim Shada, VP-Sales Scott M. Porter, VP-Men's Merch. Wayne Daugherty, VP-Oper. Karen B. Rhoads, Treas. Gary Lalone, VP-Sales Brett P. Milkie, VP-Leasing

Phone: 308-236-8491 Fax: 308-236-4493 Toll-Free: Address: 2407 West 24th Street, Kearney, NE, 68847 Internet Address: www.buckle.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $337,900 1998 Sales: $267,900 1997 Sales: $206,393 1996 Sales: $172,291 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: BKE

1999 Profits: $34,000 1998 Profits: $23,300 1997 Profits: $13,600 1996 Profits: $9,847 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 4,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $400,000 Second Exec. Salary: $200,000

Bonus: $1,531,973 Bonus: $781,619

Excellent buyers keep merchandise up-to-date for 90s consumers.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

179

BUILDING MATERIALS HOLDING CORP Industry Group Code: 44413 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 8

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

BMC West Corporation

Profits: 4

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

$15,125,000 per store

Free standing, In-line

58

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Building Materials/Hardware Stores

Building Materials Holding Corporation, through its wholly owned subsidiary, BMC West Corporation, is a leading distributor and retailer of building materials. The company sells primarily to professional contractors, but sells to project-oriented consumers as well, including professional repair and remodel contractors hired by the projectoriented consumers themselves. Building Materials Holding Corporation was formed to centralize acquisitions, financial functions, administrative functions and day-to-day operational functions. BMC West has recently been divided into three major divisions of operation as a result of the company’s restructuring, with the intent of giving local management more focused responsibility. Building Materials Holding Corporation plans to invent and establish a fourth division for BMC West in order to further enhance the opportunity of management to recommend the introduction of new products or services as they are appropriate for a given market. Recently, the company completed five acquisitions including six value-added facilities and two building materials centers, bringing its location total to 58.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: BMC West Corporation

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Robert E. Mellor, CEO Robert E. Mellor, Pres. Lawrence M. Call, CFO Leroy D. Custer, VP-Mktg. and Purchasing Steven H. Pearson, VP-Human Resources Patrick Hau, VP-National Oper. Lawrence M. Call, Treas. John C. Brockman, VP-Distributor Relations

Phone: 415-227-1650 Fax: 415-227-0854 Toll-Free: Address: One Market Plaza, Steuart Tower, Suite 2650, San Francisco, CA, 94105 Internet Address: www.bmcwest.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $877,300 1997 Sales: $728,100 1996 Sales: $718,000 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: BMHC

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $15,100 1997 Profits: $9,500 1996 Profits: $10,700 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 4,100

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $275,000 Second Exec. Salary: $187,083

Bonus: $278,094 Bonus: $158,048

Good regional presence/Buying power.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

180

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

BURLINGTON COAT FACTORY WAREHOUSE CORPORATION Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 6

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Burlington Coat Factory Totally 4 Kids Cohoes Fashions Decelle Luxury Linens Baby Depot

69,000

Profits: 8

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Free-standing/In-line/Mall

228 3 4 8 6 2

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel Stores, Retail Linens/housewares Bath items Gifts

Burlington Coat Factory Warehouse Corporation and its subsidiaries operate 251 off-price apparel stores, offering a wide variety of brand-name men’s women’s and children’s merchandise, all of which is priced substantially lower than competitive department stores. Linens, bath shop items, gifts and accessories are also offered in additional store departments, as is children’s furniture. For an additional charge, stores offer alteration services. Though irregular and discontinued products comprises only a small portion of the company’s merchandise, Burlington Coat Factory is able to sell items at belowtraditional prices by maintaining inventory control and utilizing a no-frills merchandising approach to business. The company’s stores operate under the Bulington Coat Factory, Cohoes Fashions, Decelle, Luxury Linens, Totally 4 Kids and Baby Depot names. The company is utilizing these different stores to expand its market base. Totally 4 Kids is a concept store offering maternity wear as well as children’s wear and other child-related products and toys. Baby Depot specializes in infant apparel while Luxury Linens operates as a bath and bedroom store. Cohoes Fashions and Decelle stores offer moderately priced family fashions. Currently, the company is expanding also by implementing shoe and jewelry departments in several of its locations. This firm specializes in converting inexpensive and unusual space into its stores.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Burlington Coat Factory Baby Depot Cohoes Fashions Decelle Luxury Linens Totally 4 Kids Fit for Men

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Monroe G. Milstein, Pres./CEO Mark A. Nesci, COO/ VP Robert L. LaPenta, Jr., CFO Robert L. LaPenta, Jr., Corp. Controller/Chief Acc. Officer Andrew R. Milstein, VP/Exec. Merch. Mgr./Asst. Sec. Bernard Brodsky, VP/Treas.

Phone: 609-387-7800 Fax: 609-387-7071 Toll-Free: Address: The Lee Gardens, 30th Floor, 1830 Route 130 North, Burlington, NJ, 08016 Internet Address: www.coat.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $1,795,600 1997 Sales: $1,776,823 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: BCF

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $63,600 1997 Profits: $56,515 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 20,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $297,600 Second Exec. Salary: $234,720

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Very low overhead and bargain retail prices.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Norman Stevens, South Orange, NJ

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

181

CACHE INC Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 40

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Cache Lillie Rubin

2,000 2,000

Profits: 34

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Mall Mall

172 12

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel-Women's, Retail Fashion accessories

Cache, Inc. owns and operates 172 women’s apparel specialty stores, all of which are operated under the trade name Cache. The company specializes in the sale of high fashion women’s apparel and accessories in the better to expensive price range focusing on social occasion dressing from informal get-togethers to formal black-tie affairs. The company’s stores currently operate in 37 states, as well as in Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia. The company recently opened 8 new stores and remodeled three stores. Cache also completed the acquisition of certain assets of Lillie Rubin Fashions, Inc. Cache purchased the Lillie Rubin trademark, which provides exclusive use of the Lillie Rubin trade name, as well as twelve Lillie Rubin stores. Lillie Rubin stores have traditionally carried better women’s sportswear, evening, and formal wear, as well as related accessories at price points slightly higher than Cache’s. The company expects to open five stores in the spring of 1999. The company also plans to open 150 new stores over the next five years, 100 Lillie Rubin stores and 50 Cache stores.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Cache Willie Rubin

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Andrew M. Saul, Pres. Thomas E. Reinckens, Exec. VP/CFO Lisa Decker, VP-Mktg. Mae Soo Hoo, Exec. VP-General Merch. Mgr. Roy C. Smith, Exec. VP-Store Oper.

Phone: 212-575-3200 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 1460 Broadway, New York, NY, 10036 Internet Address: www.cache-inc.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $146,800 1997 Sales: $135,800 1996 Sales: $129,000 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: CACH

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $3,900 1997 Profits: $2,400 1996 Profits: $2,000 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,500

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $255,852 Second Exec. Salary: $250,000

Bonus: $103,750 Bonus: $97,500

Focuses on social and occasion dressing.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

182

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

CALLOWAY'S NURSERY INC Industry Group Code: 4442 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 4

Profits: 4

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Calloway's Nursery

62,000

$1,691,000 per store/$27 per sq. ft.

Free-Standing

16

TYPES OF BUSINESS: Garden Supplies/Plants, Retail

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES:

Calloway’s Nursery, Inc. is a specialty retailer of lawn and garden products operating sixteen store locations within the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex market. The company’s objective is to provide an unmatched retail level of excellence in quality and variety of living plants and related products. Nearly one-half of the company’s fulltime employees are either Texas Certified Nursery Professionals or Texas Master Certified Nursery Professionals. Candidates for each such certification must pass comprehensive examinations in plant identification, identification and cure of plant problems and landscaping, as well as retail merchandising and sales. The company’s nursery facility, Miller Plant Farms, was recently acquired for the production of living plants.

Calloway's Nursery Miller Plant Farms

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. James C. Estill, CEO James C. Estill, Pres. Dan Reynolds, VP/CFO David S. Weger, VP-Merch. John S. Peters, VP-Oper. John T. Cosby, VP-Corp. Dev./Sec.

Phone: 817-222-1122 Fax: 817-654-2662 Toll-Free: Address: 4200 Airport Freeway, Fort Worth, TX, 76117-6200 Internet Address: www.calloways.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $27,100 1997 Sales: $26,200 1996 Sales: $24,000 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: CLWY

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $- 300 1997 Profits: $1,700 1996 Profits: $ 200 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

200

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $175,000 Second Exec. Salary: $130,000

Bonus: $26,247 Bonus: $19,498

Specializes in plants and garden accessories/Most employees are certified nursery professionals.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

183

CARMAX GROUP Industry Group Code: 4411 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 5

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 10

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

CarMax

Number of Stores: 30

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Auto Dealers, Retail

Part of Circuit City Stores, Inc., CarMax Group operates a chain of used car superstores. The company purchases, reconditions and resells automobiles through its 30 dealerships located throughout seven mid-Atlantic and southeastern states. Generally, the company’s cars and light trucks are under six years old and have fewer than 60,000 miles on them—they additionally come with a money-back guarantee and are presented in a haggle-free atmosphere. Older used cars are available through the ValuMax program. The company plans to expand into the Los Angeles area by the year 2000, and has recently acquired a new-car Toyota dealership in Maryland and the Mauro Auto Mall of Wisconsin, along with a Mitsubishi dealership in Georgia. CarMax plans to open several more stores in existing markets and additionally agreed to acquire a Nissan dealership in South Carolina. In June of 1999, the company acquired a Chrystler/Dodge dealership in Orlando, Florida.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Circuit City ValuMax

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Richard L. Sharp, CEO W. Austin Ligon, Pres. Keith Browning, CFO/ VP Joseph S. Kunkel, VP-Mktg. Scott A. Rivas, VP- Human Resources Michael K. Dolan, CIO Thomas J. Folliard, VP-Merch. Joseph S. Kunkel, VP-Strategy Fred S. Wilson, VP-Loss Prevention

Phone: 804-747-0422 Fax: 804-747-5848 Toll-Free: Address: 4900 Cox Road, Glen Allen, VA, 23060 Internet Address: www.carmax.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $1,466,300 1998 Sales: $874,200 1997 Sales: $510,200 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: KMX

1999 Profits: $-23,500 1998 Profits: $-34,200 1997 Profits: $-9,300 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 2,782

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $ Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Offers a haggle-free atmosphere and money-back guarantee

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

184

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

CARMIKE CINEMAS INC Industry Group Code: 512131 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 3

Profits: 6

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Carmike Cinemas

4.6 aver. screens per theater

$706,000 per theater

Free-standing

520

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Movie Theaters

Carmike Cinemas, Inc. is one of the leading motion picture exhibitor in the United States, operating 520 theatres with an aggregate of 2,720 screens in markets located primarily in the Southeast, the Northeast, the Midwest and the West. The company recently opened 14 new theatres (156 screens), added 30 screens to existing complexes and purchased nineteen multiplex theatres with a total of 104 screens. In addition, the company’s first family oriented entertainment center, The Hollywood Connection, was opened. In the near future, the company plans to open approximately 350 new screens through both constructions in new markets and expansion of existing theatres. These plans include opening three new Hollywood Connection entertainment centers, two of which are being developed pursuant to a joint venture with WalMart. The company has also begun retrofitting current properties with stadium seating and digital sound to provide patrons with the highest quality experience available.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: First International Theatres Maxi Saver Cinemas Fox Theaters Corporation Carolina Cinema, Corporation Theatre Developers, Inc. Cinemark, USA Midcontinent Theatre, Inc. Plitt Theatres, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Michael W. Patrick, CEO Michael W. Patrick, Pres. Marilyn B. Grant, VP-Advertising James R. Davis, VP-Tech. Larry M. Adams, Sr. VP-Info. Systems Philip A. Smitley, Asst. VP/Controller Fred W. Van Noy, Sr. VP-Oper. Anthony J. Rhead, Sr. VP-Film H. Madison Shirley, Sr. VP-Concessions and Asst. Sec.

Phone: 706-576-3400 Fax: 706-576-3471 Toll-Free: Address: 1301 First Avenue, Columbus, GA, 31901 Internet Address: www.carmike.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $481,600 1997 Sales: $458,600 1996 Sales: $426,700 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: CKE

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-30,600 1997 Profits: $20,200 1996 Profits: $-7,300 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 10,500

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $566,058 Second Exec. Salary: $290,242

Bonus: $62,800 Bonus: $

Focus on smaller markets.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

185

CARR-GOTTSTEIN FOODS CO. Industry Group Code: 4451 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 28

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Carrs Quality Centers Eagle Quality Centers Oaken Keg Spirit Shops Eagle Stores The Great Alaska Tobacco Company

52,000 25,600 900-5,300 10,000 525-1,000

Profits: 28

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

In-line/Free-standing

16 4 17 2 7

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Grocery Stores/Supermarkets, Retail Drug stores Wine and liquor stores Tobacco stores

Carr-Gottstein Foods Company is the leading food and drug retailer in Alaska, with 46 stores spanning throughout Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, Kenaiand and other various Alaskan communities. Through operation of 17 wine and liquor stores under the name Oaken Keg Shops, the company is additionally Alaska’s highest-volume alcoholic beverage retailer. The Great Alaska Tobacco Company, also operated by Carr-Gottstein Foods, exists in seven Alaskan locations and is a retailer of tobacco products. The company’s primary stores, however, are a chain of 16 super-combination food, drug and general merchandise stores operating under the Carrs Quality Centers name. Four Eagle Quality Centers and two other Eagle Stores are additionally operated, and serve as smaller stores of a similar nature to Carrs Quality Centers. The company is currently enhancing its leading Alaskan market position and increasing revenue and profitability by continuing to provide competitively-priced, high-quality grocery and perishable merchandise with a high level of customer service. Since 1991, the company has devoted over $100 million to the enhancement, remodeling and acquisition of new and existing locations. Carr-Gottstein Foods Company is currently in the process of being acquired by Safeway, a leading grocer in the United States.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Carrs Quality Centers Eagle Quality Centers Oaken Keg Spirit Shops The Great Alaska Tobacco Company

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Lawrence H. Hayward, CEO Lawrence H. Hayward, Pres. Donald J. Anderson, CFO/Sr. VP Jeffry Philipps, Sr. VP-Store Oper.

Phone: 907-561-1944 Fax: 907-564-2580 Toll-Free: Address: 6411 A Street, Anchorage, AK, 99518 Internet Address: www.carrs.net Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $601,900 1997 Sales: $589,274 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: CGF

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $2,100 1997 Profits: $-5,605 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 3,200

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $325,000 Second Exec. Salary: $150,000

Bonus: $50,000 Bonus: $40,000

Leading food and drug retailer in Alaska/Operates its own freight distribution and warehouse facilities which allows for lower procurement costs and quality perishables.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

186

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

CASEY'S GENERAL STORES INC Industry Group Code: 44512 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 5

Profits: 4

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Casey's General Stores

2,300

$1,070,000 per store/$465 per sq. ft.

Free-standing

1022 company-owned/ 163 franchised

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Convenience Stores, Retail

Casey’s General Stores and its two subsidiaries, Casey’s Marketing Company and Casey’s Service Company, operate convenience stores in nine midwestern states. The stores carry a broad selection of food, beverages, tobacco products, health and beauty aids, automotive products and other non-food items. In addition, all stores offer gasoline for sale on a self-service basis. Casey's recently added 80 new stores, ending the fiscal year with 1,022 company owned stores and 163 franchise stores. The company also operates a central warehouse, the Casey’s Distribution Center, through which it supplies grocery and general merchandise items to companyowned stores and franchised stores. Casey's employees should enjoy providing quality customer service in a clean and convenient location.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Casey's Marketing Company Casey's Services Company

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Donald F. Lamberti, CEO Ronald M. Lamb, Pres./COO Douglas K. Shull, CFO Robert Hood, VP-Mktg. Bill Waljasper, VP-Human Resources John G. Harmon, Corp. Sec. Douglas K. Shull, Treas.

Phone: 515-965-6100 Fax: 515-965-6160 Toll-Free: Address: One Convenience Blvd., Ankeny, IA, 50021 Internet Address: www.caseys.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $1,186,900 1997 Sales: $1,109,000 1996 Sales: $954,800 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: CASY

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $33,500 1997 Profits: $27,000 1996 Profits: $26,800 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 10,366

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $383,333 Second Exec. Salary: $148,750

Bonus: $100,000 Bonus: $40,000

Strong midwest presence.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

187

CASH AMERICA INTERNATIONAL INC Industry Group Code: 4400 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 5

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 3

Annual Sales Per Store:

Cash America Rent-A-Tire Mr. Payroll

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Free-standing Free-standing Free-standing

414 US/50 Foreign 4 owed/14 managed 127 franchised/10 company owned

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Pawn Shops Check cashing Rent-to-own services

Cash America International acquires, establishes and operates pawnshops which lend money on the security of pledged tangible personal property. The company then sells the property if the high-interest loans are not paid. The company has aggressively expanded in the past several years and now operates approximately 420 stores, 10 of which are located in Sweden and 40 in the U.K. The company believes that it provides financial services to a customer base overlooked by traditional financial institutions. New concepts for Cash America include its Mr. Payroll subsidiary that offers check cashing machines using a proprietary facial recognition technology, and its Rent-A-Tire subsidiary which offers rent-to-own services. The possibility of franchising existing independent pawnshops under the Cash America name seems to be another growth plan for the company.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Mr. Payroll Rent-A-Tire

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Jack R. Daugherty, CEO Daniel R. Feehan, COO/Pres. Thomas A. Bessant Jr., CFO Michael D. Gaston, Exec. VP-Business Dev.

Phone: 817-335-1100 Fax: 817-335-1119 Toll-Free: Address: 1600 West 7th Street, Fort Worth, TX, 76102-2599 Internet Address: www.streetlink.com/pwn/ Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $342,900 1997 Sales: $303,400 1996 Sales: $281,000 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: PWN

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $12,600 1997 Profits: $16,600 1996 Profits: $15,700 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 2,787

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $386,495 Second Exec. Salary: $383,438

Bonus: $229,939 Bonus: $229,459

Over 350 locations in the U.S., U.K. and Sweden

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

188

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

CATHERINES STORES CORPORATION Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 27

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Catherine's PS Plus Sizes, Plus Savings Added Dimensions The Answer

3,200-3,500 4,000-4,500 3,200-3,500 4,000

Profits:

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

In-line/Mall

214 113 82 29

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel-Women's, Retail

Catherines Stores Corporation, through its wholly owned subsidiaries and a limited partnership, is a leading specialty retailer of large-size women’s apparel, operating approximately 438 stores in 39 states. The company operates four separate divisions with distinct merchandising concepts and marketing strategies. The Catherine’s division operates 214 stores in medium-sized cities, primarily in the Southeast, Southwest and Midwest and plans to open 10 new stores in 1999. The PS Plus Sizes, Plus Savings division operates 113 stores in major metropolitan areas and plans to open 5 in 1999. Both divisions’ stores offer a full assortment of merchandise with emphasis on casual fashions. The stores carry a complete range of large sizes, including sizes over 26 that frequently are not offered by the company’s competitors. The Added Dimensions division operates 82 stores in medium-sized cities throughout the Southeast and Midwest offering full price, high quality merchandise. Added Dimensions has a private label sportswear merchandise program which allows it to offer exclusive fashions to its customers and plans to open 4 new stores in 1999. The Answer division operates 29 stores in major metropolitan areas and plans to open two new stores in 1999. The merchandise assortment is predominately career-oriented. The company seeks to serve the primary apparel and accessory needs of women who wear size 14 or larger. The company opened six new stores and remodeled 30 stores. In addition, the company replaced its point-of-sale systems with personal computer-based systems. The company is developing a new program to meet the customers’ needs. Catherines has prepared video training for the entire store and merchandising staff that identify different body types and instructs on the styles that enhance each body type.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Catherines, Inc. Catherines of California, Inc. Catherines of Pennsylvania, Inc. PS Plus Sizes, Plus Savings Added Dimensions The Answer

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Bernard J. Wein, CEO Bernard J. Wein, Pres. David C. Forell, Exec. VP/CFO E. Glenn Irelan, Exec. VP-Stores, Mktg., and Real Estate James A. Spector, Sr. VP-Human Resources Julia C. Boland, VP-Info. Systems Dian V. Missel, Exec. VP/General Merch. Mgr. Rick Estep, VP-Store Planning Dorothy M. Dawson, Sr. VP/Treas. Wayne Carpenter, VP-Loss Prevention GiGi DeJesus Frerichs, VP-Product Dev.

Phone: 901-363-3900 Fax: 901-794-9726 Toll-Free: Address: 3742 Lamar Avenue, Memphis, TN, 38118 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $295,300 1998 Sales: $277,200 1997 Sales: $268,000 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: CATH

1999 Profits: $7,600 1998 Profits: $ 1997 Profits: $1,300 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 2,640

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $500,000 Second Exec. Salary: $325,000

Bonus: $150,000 Bonus: $78,000

Specialty stores that cater to women size 16 and above.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 6 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

189

CATO CORP Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 19

Profits: 18

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Cato It's Fashion Cato Plus Cato Fashion

3,000-6,000 3,000-6,000 3,000-6,000

$690,000 per store

In-line

All stores amount to 732

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel-Women's Retail

The Cato Corporation operates women's specialty stores under the names of It’s Fashion!, Cato, Cato Fashions and Cato Plus in 21 states, principally in non-metropolitan markets in the South and Southeast. The company operates more than 730 women’s apparel specialty stores selling low-price misses, junior and large-sized sportswear, career wear, coats, hosiery, shoes and accessories. The Cato Corporation sells low-price apparel for men, women and children in the company’s approximately 150 It’s Fashion! stores. Recent business developments include the implementing of three Best Practices initiatives. These initiatives are a focused customer service program, a complete Point-of-Sale terminal replacement with new in-store markdown technology and a completed equipment retrofit of its expanded Distribution Center with additional technology to improve throughput. The Cato Corporation has been making significant increases in technology use; in addition to plans to use technology integrate the merchandising, distribution and finance segments of its business the company plans to issue laptops to all district managers to aid in communications between the corporate office and the field office.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Cato Fashions Cato Plus It's Fashion

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Wayland H. Cato, Jr., CEO John P.Derham Cato, COO/Pres. Michael O. Moore, Exec. VP/CFO/Sec. Stephen R. Clark, Sr. VP-Human Resources/Asst. Sec. B. Allen Weinstein, Exec. VP/Chief Merch. Officer

Phone: 704-554-8510 Fax: 704-551-7573 Toll-Free: Address: 8100 Denmark Road, Charlotte, NC, 28273-5975 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $524,400 1998 Sales: $496,900 1997 Sales: $477,000 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: CACOA

1999 Profits: $23,900 1998 Profits: $17,400 1997 Profits: $7,000 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 7,100

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $442,977 Second Exec. Salary: $424,454

Bonus: $225,000 Bonus: $212,500

Over 740 stores in the south and southeast.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 3 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Alpha Group, Asheville, NC; The Newspaper Network, Greenville, SC

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

190

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

CBRL GROUP INC Industry Group Code: 7221 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store:

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store Carmine's Prime Meats Logan's Roadhouse

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

In-line/Free standing

380 2 40

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Restaraunts/Gift Stores Retail crockery, handmade gifts Gourmet food stores Casual dining restaraunts

CBRL Group, Inc. is primarily a restaurant chain operator, operating over 380 Cracker Barrel Old Country Store restaurants. Cracker barrel old Country Store restaurants resemble turn-of-the-century country stores and are famous throughout the southern portion of the United States for country cooking and turn-of-the-century décor. These restaurants additionally feature small retail areas where customers can purchase items after a meal. Some of these items include crockery, handmade crafts, jars of butters and jams and other handmade food products. Nearly all products are reminiscent of turn-of-the-century goods typically found at old-fashioned general stores. CBRL Group, Inc. recently purchased Carmine’s Prime Meats, and now through that acquisition operates two gourmet food stores. These stores feature a selection of meats and gourmet foods that are frequently given as gifts. The company also owns approximately 40 honkytonk flavored casual restaurants under the name Logan’s Roadhouse. CBRL Group, Inc. recently in 1999 underwent a restructuring, transforming itself into a holding company in order to accommodate the company’s plans to expand into new business areas.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Cracker Barrel Old Country Store Carmine's Prime Meats Logan's Roadhouse

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Dan W. Evins, CEO Richard K. Arras, Pres./COO Michael A. Woodhouse, Sr. VP-Finance/CFO Richard G. Parsons, Sr. VP-Merch. Michael D. Adkins, Sr. VP-Restaurant Oper.

Phone: 615-444-5533 Fax: 615-443-9399 Toll-Free: Address: 305 Hartmann Dr., Lebanon, TN, 37088-0787 Internet Address: www.crackerbarrellocs.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $1,317,100 1997 Sales: $1,123,900 1996 Sales: $943,300 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: CBRL

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $104,100 1997 Profits: $86,600 1996 Profits: $63,500 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 38,815

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $385,000 Second Exec. Salary: $350,000

Bonus: $536,669 Bonus: $390,304

Rapidly expanding into new business areas.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

191

CD WAREHOUSE INC Industry Group Code: 45122A Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 6

Profits: 6

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

CD Warehouse/CD Exchange

1,200-2,500

Free-standing/In-line

Disc Go Round Music Trader

1,500-2,500 1,500-2,500

Free-standing Free-standing/In-line

135 franchised/51 companyowned 137 16

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Music Store, Retail

CD Warehouse, Inc. is engaged in the franchising and ownership of music stores offering new and pre-owned compact discs and related products under the trade name of CD Warehouse, Disc Go Round and CD Exchange. The company has engaged in a program of expansion to achieve strong market recognition in the retail music industry. The company currently owns 186 franchised and company-owned CD Warehouse stores in 41 states, the District of Columbia, Canada, England, France, Guatemala and Venezuela. The company’s stores buy, sell and trade pre-owned CD’s with their customers. The stores also sell a full complement of newly released CD’s, DVD and video games. The company recently acquired 16 independent retail music stores in San Diego, California. These stores were acquired by Compact Disc Management, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of CD Warehouse, Inc., that has the responsibility for all company store operations. The stores operate under the trade name of Music Trader. The company also launched an on-line community and electronic commerce site to sell pre-owned and new music compact discs on the Internet. By implementing an IBM e-business solution, CD Warehouse has developed the largest pre-owned music CD commerce site on the Internet. The company also acquired the franchise rights for 134 Disc Go Round retail music stores and the assets of three company-owned stores from Grow Biz International, Inc.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: CD Warehouse CD Management, Inc. Compact Discs International, Ltd. ZDTMAC Disc Go Round Music Trader Disc Go Round

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Jerry W. Grizzle, CEO/Pres. Gary D. Johnson, COO/Exec. VP Doyle E. Motley, CFO/Sr. VP Bruce D. MacDonald, VP-Company Store Oper.

Phone: 405-949-2422 Fax: 405-949-2566 Toll-Free: Address: 1204 Sovereign Row, Oklahoma City, OK, 73108 Internet Address: www.CDWarehouse.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $15,300 1997 Sales: $9,100 1996 Sales: $5,000 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: CDWI

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $ 800 1997 Profits: $ 400 1996 Profits: $ 100 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

13

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $128,692 Second Exec. Salary: $105,577

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

One of the few national chains that specialize in reselling used CDs.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

192

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

CDNOW INC Industry Group Code: 4541 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 7

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 12

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Online only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Recorded Music-Online Sales Videos DVDs Apparel Music news/articles

CDnow is a leading online retailer of CDs and other musicrelated products. The company’s online store, cdnow.com, offers a broad selection, informative content, easy-to-use navigation and search capabilities, a high level of customer service, competitive pricing and personalized merchandising and recommendations. A number of characteristics of online music retailing make the sale of pre-recorded music via the Internet particularly attractive relative to traditional retail stores. The Internet offers many data management and multimedia features which enable consumers to listen to sound samples, search for music by genre, title or artist and access a wealth of information and events, including reviews, related articles, music history and news. In addition, the company seeks to enter into strategic alliances with major Internet content and service providers in order to enhance its new customer acquisition efforts, increase purchases by current customers and expand brand recognition. Recently, the company has broadened its strategic alliance with Yahoo! to include Yahoo! Mail and Yahoo!’s music chat space. The company has also entered into new strategic alliances with Lycos, Tripod, JAMtv and Straight Arrow Publishers. In 1999, the firm merged with Internet giant N2K, creating a force for competitor Amazon.com to reckon with and doubling the company's overall size.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: N2K

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Jason Olim, CEO Jason Olim, Pres. Joel Sussman, VP/CFO Rod Parker, Sr. VP-Product Mgmt. and Mktg. Charlotte Caminos, Sr. VP-Human Resources Matthew Olim, Tech. Lead Michael Krupit, VP-Tech. Steve Dong, VP-Oper. Robert Salzman, VP-Strategic Business Dev. Matthew Olim, Principal Software Engineer Matthew Olim, Treas. Robert Salzman, VP-Corp. Sales and Advertising

Phone: 212-378-5555 Fax: 212-742-1755 Toll-Free: Address: 55 Broad Street, 26th Fl., New York, NY, 10004 Internet Address: www.cdnow.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $56,400 1997 Sales: $17,400 1996 Sales: $6,300 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: CDNW

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-43,800 1997 Profits: $-10,700 1996 Profits: $-1,800 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

211

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $212,412 Second Exec. Salary: $149,327

Bonus: $55,000 Bonus: $

Best-known CD seller on the Internet/Merged with N2K.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

193

CDW COMPUTER CENTERS INC Industry Group Code: 44312 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Direct marketing only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Computer and Software Sales, Direct

CDW Computer Centers, Inc. is a leading direct marketer of over 30,000 microcomputer products, primarily to business, government, educational, institutional and home office users in the United States. The company sells a broad range of name-brand microcomputer products, including hardware and peripherals, software, networking/communication products and accessories through knowledgeable telemarketing account executives. Sales of products that utilize, or are compatible with, Microsoft Windows 95/Windows/Windows NT/MS-DOS operating platforms account for substantially all of the company’s net sales. The company services approximately 575,000 customers, and recently completed the move to a newly constructed facility in Vernon Hills, Illinois. The 218,000 square feet facility is more than double the size of the previous facility and occupies 13 acres of the 27-acre Vernon Hills site owned by CDW. The company also acquired 18 acres of vacant land contiguous to this facility, giving CDW a total of 45 acres, of which 32 are available for further expansion. The company also expanded the number of co-workers to 970 from 735. CDW is currently focusing training on technical skills. The company’s phone technicians can eventually become Microsoft certified engineers.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: CDW Government, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Michael P. Krasny, CEO/Sec. Gregory C. Zeman, Pres. Harry J. Harczak, Jr., CFO Joseph K. Kremer, VP-Mktg. James R. Shanks, VP-Info. Tech. Douglas E. Eckrote, VP-Oper. Harry J. Harczak, Jr., Treas. Daniel B. Kass, VP-Sales

Phone: 847-465-6000 Fax: 847-465-6800 Toll-Free: 1-800-401-4239 Address: 200 N. Milwaukee Avenue, Vernon Hills, IL, 60061 Internet Address: www.cdw.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $1,733,500 1997 Sales: $1,276,900 1996 Sales: $927,900 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: CDWC

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $65,800 1997 Profits: $51,000 1996 Profits: $34,400 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,512

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $227,373 Second Exec. Salary: $198,952

Bonus: $1,243,757 Bonus: $1,050,614

Nation's largest catalog-based direct-market retailer of PC- and Windows-based accessories.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Northbrook Advertising Agency, Vernon Hills, IL; Mobium Creative Group, Chicago, IL

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

194

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

CELLSTAR CORPORATION Industry Group Code: 443 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 5

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 5

Annual Sales Per Store:

Cellstar

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Free-standing

13 domestic/50 international

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Cellular Phones, Retail Electronics/appliances--cellular phone retailer

CellStar Corporation is a leading global provider of wireless communications products, primarily handsets, with operations in the United States, the Asia-Pacific Region, Latin America and Europe. The company is one of the world’s largest non-carrier wholesale distributors of wireless phones for Motorola, Inc. and Ericsson Inc., and also distributes wireless phones for manufacturers such as Nokia Mobile Phones, Inc., QUALCOMM Incorporated, Sony Electronics Inc. and NEC Corporation. The company has been awarded distribution contracts by two major cellular telephone service carriers in Brazil, with BCP Telecomunicacoes, and in Peru, with Telefonic del Peru S.A., covering the distribution of prepaid cellular cards in the two countries. The company also sold its Venezuelan prepaid cellular operations to Movilnet, forming a strategic alliance in which it will provide Movilnet with all of the supply services for prepaid phone kits. CellStar has also been selected by Iridium North America to distribute wireless phones and accessories to support the Iridium North America World Roaming Program. In addition, the company launched its Advanced Order System, the first system developed by an independent wireless telecommunications distributor that enables customers to order cellular phones and related products via the Internet. CellStar has also formed a Global Accessories Division to increase the company’s focus on wireless accessories and the support needs of its telecommunications customers worldwide.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: CellStar Asia CellStar Pacific Digicom Spolka Zoo TA Intercall AB

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Alan H. Goldfield, CEO Richard M. Gozia, Pres./COO Evelyn Henry Miller, Sr. VP-Finance/CFO Timothy L. Maretti, Sr. VP-Brazil Region A.S. Horng, CEO-CellStar (Asia) Corporation Ltd.

Phone: 972-466-5000 Fax: 972-466-9091 Toll-Free: Address: 1730 Briercroft Court, Carrollton, TX, 75006 Internet Address: www.cellstar.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $1,995,900 1997 Sales: $1,482,800 1996 Sales: $947,600 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: CLST

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $14,400 1997 Profits: $53,600 1996 Profits: $-6,400 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,100

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $850,000 Second Exec. Salary: $800,000

Bonus: $850,000 Bonus: $800,000

One of the world's largest non-carrier wholesale distributors of cellular phones for Motorola, Nokia, Ericsson and NEC/Rapidly growing international locations.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

195

CENTRAL TRACTOR FARM & COUNTRY INC Industry Group Code: 4400 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 4

Annual Sales Per Store:

Central Tractor Farm and Country Country General

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line

All stores total 215

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Agricultural Products, Retail Mail order--garden products Lawn and garden products Hardware Pet supplies

Central Tractor Farm & Country, Inc., a privately owned company, along with its subsidiary, Country General, Inc., operates 215 agricultural retail stores serving the agricultural, hardware and related needs of mostly rural customers, especially farmers, hobby gardeners, skilled tradespersons and do-it-yourself customers. The company, founded in 1935, has established a strong name recognition and a loyal customer base over time. Central Tractor Farm & Country, Inc.’s retail locations span throughout the Midwestern, Northeastern and Southeastern regions of the United States and operate under the Central Farm & Tractor, Country General and Big Bear names. The stores offer a wide selection of agricultural products, including tractor parts and accessories, feed, fencing materials and animal health supplies, specialty hardware and paint, lawn and garden items, rural automotive parts and accessories, workwear, pet supplies and other general consumer merchandise. These items are additionally sold through the company’s catalog operation, with a circulation of approximately 675,000. During fiscal 1999, the company has opened two new stores and closed one store. Central Tractor Farm & Country plans to add an additional 25 stores in fiscal 1999, and another 25 in fiscal 2000. Through selective acquisitions, the company plans to expand by further penetrating Southeastern and Western United States markets.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Central Tractor Farm & Country Big Bear Country General, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. James T. McKitrick, Pres./CEO Dean Longnecker, Exec. VP/COO Denny Starr, Sr. VP-Finance/CFO John R. Pearson, Exec. VP-Sales David E. Enos, Sr. VP- Info. Systems/Logistics George D. Miller, Sr. VP-Merch. Jeffrey A. Stanton, Sr. VP-Oper.

Phone: 515-266-3101 Fax: 515-266-4229 Toll-Free: 800-266-1685 Address: 3915 Delaware Avenue, Des Moines, IA, 50316-0330 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $587,200 1997 Sales: $ 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: PRIVATE

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $10,000 1997 Profits: $ 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 4,500

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $435,000 Second Exec. Salary: $265,000

Bonus: $224,743 Bonus: $136,912

One of the largest agricultural specialty retailers in the U.S.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

196

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

CHARMING SHOPPES INC Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 10

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Fashion Bug Fashion Bug Plus

9,400 3,900

Profits: 17

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

In-line/Mall In-line/Mall

1,150 111

Apparel-Women's, Retail

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES:

Charming Shoppes, Inc. operates 1,150 women’s specialty apparel stores in 42 states, the substantial majority of which are located in the northeastern United States. The company’s 1,150 Fashion Bug stores specialize in selling a wide variety of juniors, misses largesize and girls-size sportswear, dresses, coats, lingerie, accessories and casual footwear. Fashion Bug, in addition, plans to open 100 stores in 1999. The company’s 58 Fashion Bug Plus stores specialize in similar merchandise for the large-size customer. The company recently acquired 28 stores from Petrie Retail, Inc. These stores will operate under the Fashion Bug name. 25 new stores were recently opened.

Fashion Bug Fashion Bug Plus Charming Shoppes

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Dorrit Bern, CEO Dorrit Bern, Pres. Eric Specter, VP/CFO Carmen Monaco, VP-Mktg. Anthonay A. DeSabato, Esq., Exec. VP-Human Resources Elizabeth Williams, Exec. VP-Merch.

Phone: 215-245-9100 Fax: 215-638-6873 Toll-Free: Address: 450 Winks Lane, Bensalem, PA, 19020 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $1,035,200 1998 Sales: $1,016,500 1997 Sales: $1,016,300 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: CHRS

1999 Profits: $-20,100 1998 Profits: $19,300 1997 Profits: $-7,200 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 12,600

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $1,000,000 Second Exec. Salary: $400,000

Bonus: $492,000 Bonus: $164,000

Moderately-priced merchandise/Locations in 46 states.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 4 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Martin/Williams Advertising Inc., Minneapolis, MN; Earle Palmer Brown/Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

197

CHECKFREE CORP Industry Group Code: 52252A Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 3

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 4

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Direct marketing/Online only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Electronic Payment Systems and Services

CheckFree Holdings Corporation is a leading provider of electronic commerce services, institutional portfolio management services and financial application software for financial institutions and businesses and their customers. The company's business is pursued through three independent but interrelated divisions: Electronic Commerce, Institutional Investment Services and Software. All three divisions market their services and products to financial institutions and the investment industry and customers, both consumer and business. Prior to several acquisitions, the company operated its business in one business segment, electronic bill payment. Through acquisitions, the company obtained the resources required to fulfill its strategy of diversifying its offerings in electronic commerce to embrace other fields: electronic bill payment, bill presentment, banking, brokerage and business payments. The company has signed ten contracts for electronic billing and payment, ranking the company as number 41 out of the nation’s largest 150 billers. In addition, the company has entered into an Internet distribution contract. CheckFree and Countrywide Home Loans, Inc., the nation’s largest independent mortgage lender, signed an agreement for electronic bill presentment and payment. The agreement will provide Countrywide customers access to on-line electronic billing and payment through a central website of their choice.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Servantis Systems Holdings, Inc. Interactive Solutions Corp. CheckFree Wallet Intuit Corp. Security APL, Inc. RCM Systems, Inc. Electronic Commerce Division Institutional Investment Services Division

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Peter J. Kight, Pres./CEO Peter F. Sinisgalli, Exec. VP/COO Allen L. Shulman, Exec. VP/CFO Mark A. Johnson, VP-Corp. Mktg. Dean C. Collins, VP-Human Resources Ravi Ganesan, Chief Tech. Officer Stephen Olsen, Sr. VP/CIO Mark A. Johnson, VP-Corporate Dev. Matthew Lewis, Sr. VP-EC Product Mgmt. and Mktg.

Phone: 770-441-3387 Fax: 770-840-1494 Toll-Free: 800-882-5280 Address: 4411 East Jones Bridge Road, Norcross, GA, 30092 Internet Address: www.checkfree.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $233,900 1997 Sales: $176,400 1996 Sales: $51,000 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: CKFR

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-3,700 1997 Profits: $-161,800 1996 Profits: $-138,600 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,659

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $375,000 Second Exec. Salary: $260,417

Bonus: $182,813 Bonus: $103,125

Experiencing tremendous growth/Continues to introduce new products for electronic commerce.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

198

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

CHICO'S FAS INC Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 48

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Chico's

1,310 (net selling square footage) 1,900 (net selling square footage)

Chico's Outlets

Profits: 36

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Malls/In-line

152 company-owned/9 franchised 7

In-line/Outlet

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel-Women's, Retail

Chico’s is a specialty retailer of exclusively designed, private label casual clothing and related accessories. Emphasizing casual comfort, Chico’s clothing is principally natural fabric, loose fitting and designed for easy care. Chico’s target customer include women of all ages who seek style and attitude in their casual clothing, with a particular focus on 35 to 60 year old women with moderate and higher income levels. The company currently operates 168 stores, of which 161 are front-line Chico’s stores and 8 are Chico’s Outlet stores. Franchisees own and operate 9 of the 141 Chico’s stores. In fiscal 1998, four of the company’s stores topped the million-dollar sales mark with the Scottsdale, Arizona operations exceeding one and one-half million dollars in sales. The company also initiated Fashion Information Training store notebooks which contain drawings, descriptions, fabric content, care instruction, sizing and pricing of clothing the company will sell in coming months. District sales managers train new employees with the company’s Most Amazing Personal Service sales module. They, in turn, will train store managers who will train their teams. The first item in the Traveler's Collection, included in the bimonthly direct mailer, the Traveler's Dress, was highly successful.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: The Traveler's Dress Chico's Chico's Outlet

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Marvin J. Gralnick, CEO Marvin J. Gralnick, Pres. Charles J. Kleman, CFO/Exec. VP-Finance Scott A. Edmonds, Sr. VP-Oper.

Phone: 941-277-6200 Fax: 941-277-5237 Toll-Free: Address: 11215 Metro Parkway, Ft. Myers, FL, 33912 Internet Address: www.chicos.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $106,700 1998 Sales: $75,300 1997 Sales: $64,100 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: CHCS

1999 Profits: $9,100 1998 Profits: $2,800 1997 Profits: $1,900 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,100

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $267,307 Second Exec. Salary: $209,375

Bonus: $132,000 Bonus: $76,275

Focus on casual fashion for women aged 30 to 55.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

199

CHILDREN'S PLACE (THE) Industry Group Code: 44813 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Profits: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

The Children's Place

3,800

$1,345,000 per store/$354 per sq. ft.

Mall/In-line

211

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel-Children's, Retail

The Children’s Place is a leading specialty retailer of high quality, value-priced apparel and accessories for children newborn to age twelve. The company designs, contracts to manufacture and sells its products under The Children’s Place brand name. The company currently operates 211 stores located primarily in regional shopping malls in the eastern half of the United States. The stores have demonstrated the ability to perform well in a variety of mall locations, as well as urban, strip and outlet centers. Each year, twelve new lines composed of four seasonal lines, each with three sub-lines, are introduced. The lines feature colorful coordinated outfits for girls, boys and babies. In May 1999, a new distribution center and home office is scheduled to open that will be twice the size of the current facility, can service up to 500 stores and has a new warehouse management system.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: The Children's Place

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Ezra Dabah, CEO Stanley B. Silver, Pres./COO Seth L. Udasin, VP/CFO Diane M. Timbanard, VP/Merch. Mgr. Susan F. Schiller, VP-Store Oper.

Phone: 973-227-8900 Fax: Toll-Free: 800-527-5355 Address: 1 Dodge Drive, W Caldwell, NJ, 07006 Internet Address: www.tcpkids.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $283,900 1998 Sales: $192,600 1997 Sales: $143,800 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: PLCE

1999 Profits: $20,700 1998 Profits: $8,700 1997 Profits: $30,400 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 3,700

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $528,008 Second Exec. Salary: $350,012

Bonus: $120,648 Bonus: $63,980

New distribution center/Performs well in mall locations.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 2 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

200

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

CINEMASTAR LUXURY THEATERS INC Industry Group Code: 512131 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 8

Profits: 4

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

CinemaStar Luxury Theater

10 avg. screens/theatre

$3,256,000 per theatre

Free-standing

8

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Movie Theaters

CinemaStar Luxury Theaters, Inc. develops, leases, owns and operates multi-screen, primarily first-run movie theater locations in southern California and northern Mexico. The company currently operates theaters with a total of 69 screens in San Diego and Riverside Counties in southern California and in Tijuana, B.C., Mexico. The company’s theater complexes typically contain multiple auditoriums each having 120 to 500 seats, allowing the company the flexibility to adjust screening schedules by shifting films amongst the larger and smaller auditoriums within the same complex in response to audience demand. All theaters feature digital THX, sound systems, top quality projection and screen systems, the highest quality seats available and excellent concession selections and service. The company owns and operates eight first run motion picture theaters, and has recently begun construction of a new 20-screen megaplex theater in downtown San Bernadino, California. The new 20-plex theater will include state-of-the-art amenities such as stadium seating in all 20 viewing areas, the latest screen and sound technologies incorporating LucasFilm THX Stereo Surround Sound environment systems and the most modern concession areas in the industry. The company has also entered into a letter of intent with General Growth Properties, Inc. to expand its existing Chula Vista multiplex into an 18 screen Ultraplex entertainment center, comprising 40,000 square feet. The expansion will feature a two-level lobby with additional concession and video entertainment areas.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: CinemaStar SCP Private Equity Partners, L.P. CinemaStar Luxury Theaters, S.A. de C.V. General Growth Properties, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Jack R. Crosby, CEO Frank J. Moreno, Pres./COO Norman Dowling, CFO/VP

Phone: 619-509-2777 Fax: 619-509-9426 Toll-Free: Address: 12230 El Camino Real, Suite 320, San Diego, CA, 92130 Internet Address: www.cinemastar.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $27,700 1998 Sales: $26,100 1997 Sales: $19,600 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: LUXY

1999 Profits: $-1,600 1998 Profits: $-7,900 1997 Profits: $-4,300 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

487

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $702,210 Second Exec. Salary: $314,166

Bonus: $30,000 Bonus: $50,000

Focuses on making the movie experience more enjoyable using state-of-the-art equipment and roomy chairs.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

201

CIRCUIT CITY GROUP Industry Group Code: 443 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Circuit City Superstores Circuit City Circuit City Express CarMax

9,000-23,000

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store: $19,491,660 per store

2,000-3,000

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Free-standing/In-line In-line Mall/In-line Free-standing

553 4 52 19

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Electronics, Audio, and Appliance Stores, Retail Retail computers Used automobiles

Circuit City Stores, Inc.'s retail operations consist of Circuit City Superstores, Circuit City electronics-only stores and mall-based Circuit City Express stores. Certain subsidiaries of Circuit City Stores, Inc. operate CarMax Auto Superstores, a used- and new-car retail business. In addition, Circuit City Stores, Inc. holds ownership interest in Digital Video Express, LP, which is a limited partnership formed to develop and launch an enhancement for DVD players. However, Circuit City abandoned the venture in mid-1999. Circuit City is considered the second largest U.S. retailer of major appliances and consumer electronics in terms of sales and a leading retailer of personal computers and entertainment software. Circuit City operates 609 retail Circuit City Stores throughout the United States. Circuit City is also the pioneer of the usedcar superstore with its national CarMax chain of dealerships. The CarMax chain purchases, reconditions and sells used cars and light trucks that are under six years old and with fewer than 60,000 miles. The company has plans to expand its CarMax chain into the Los Angeles area. The company’s two groups, the Circuit City Group and the CarMax Group, trade separately on the New York Stock Exchange for tracking purposes.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Circuit City CarMax Digital Video Express, LP

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Richard L. Sharp., CEO W. Alan McCollough, COO/Pres. Michael T. Chalifoux, CFO/Sr. VP Jeffrey D. Palmer, VP-Mktg. Jeffrey S. Wells, Sr. VP-Human Resources Richard S. Birnbaum, Exec. VP-Oper.

Phone: 804-527-4000 Fax: 804-527-4194 Toll-Free: Address: 9950 Maryland Drive, Richmond, VA, 23233 Internet Address: www.circuitcity.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $10,804,400 1998 Sales: $8,870,800 1997 Sales: $7,663,800 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: CC

1999 Profits: $142,900 1998 Profits: $104,300 1997 Profits: $136,400 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 42,246

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $854,757 Second Exec. Salary: $600,809

Bonus: $630,000 Bonus: $252,000

Nation's largest retailer of brand-name consumer electronics and major appliances.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 4 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Circuit City Stores, Inc., Richmond, VA

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

202

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

CLAIRE'S STORES INC Industry Group Code: 44831 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 4

Profits: 3

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Claire's Boutiques/Claire's Accessories Mr. Rags The Icing/Claire's Etc. Bijoux One Bow Bangles

960

Mall

All stores amount to 2,067

1,900 1,375

Mall Mall Mall Mall

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Accessories, Retail Posters Costume jewelry Calendars Earrings

Claire’s Stores, Inc. operates over 2,000 jewelry, accessories and apparel boutiques in malls and strip centers across the United States, Canada, Europe, the Caribbean and Japan. Targeted towards preteens and teens, the company’s Claire’s Boutiques, Claire’s Accessories, Dara Michelle, The Icing, Bijoux One and Bow Bangles provide these accessories at an inexpensive, affordable price range. Mr.Rags sells the company’s apparel, among other items. Most items in accessory stores range in price from $2 to $20, with the average item costing around $4. Hip, busy, exciting décor exists throughout all of Claire’s Stores, and current upbeat pop, rock and r&b music plays over the speakers, providing a contemporary and comfortable shopping atmosphere for the company’s young target audience. Currently, the company seeks to improve financial results by presenting customers and prospects merchandise tailored more specifically to their tastes and preferences, by increasing circulation and by increasing selection of available merchandise. The company’s new strategy seems to be working, as Claire’s Stores, Inc. experienced a significant sales increase in March of 1999. The company’s 1999 Sales figure reached $661.9 million, with a sales growth of $32.3 million.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Claire's Boutiques Dara Michelle Bow Bangles Accessory Place, Inc. Claire's Accessories The Icing Bijoux One Topkapi

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Rowland Schaefer, Pres./CEO Bryan Doyle, COO Ira D.Kaplan, CFO/Sr. VP Ira D. Kaplan, Treas. Mark A. Hoffman, Pres./COO-Claires Boutiques

Phone: 954-433-3900 Fax: 954-433-3999 Toll-Free: Address: 3 S.W. 129th Avenue, Pembroke Pines, FL, 33027 Internet Address: www.clairestores.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $661,900 1998 Sales: $500,200 1997 Sales: $440,200 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: CLE

1999 Profits: $62,200 1998 Profits: $58,200 1997 Profits: $45,100 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 8,500

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $1,000,000 Second Exec. Salary: $528,443

Bonus: $ Bonus: $100,000

Stores in 49 states/Growth through acquisitions.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

203

COLDWATER CREEK INC Industry Group Code: 45411 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 19

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 10

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Coldwater Creek Outlets

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel Stores, Retail Mail order--gifts Mail order--jewelry Catalogs

Coldwater Creek Inc. is a specialty direct mail retailer of apparel, gifts, jewelry and home furnishings. The company markets its merchandise primarily through four distinct catalogs. Northcountry is the company’s core catalog and features casual, comfortable apparel, hard-tofind jewelry, distinctive artwork, gifts and items for the home. The company’s premium catalog for women, Spirit of the West, features fashionable, upscale apparel and hard-to-find jewelry and accessories. Milepost Four features upscale, yet relaxed, natural-fiber men’s clothing. In response to customer demand, the company introduced its Bed & Bath catalog. The company also operates catalog-themed retail stores in Idaho and Wyoming. Through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Coldwater Creek Outlet Stores, Inc., the company additionally operates outlet stores in Oregon, Massachusetts, Maine and Michigan.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: EcoSong Milepost Four Northcountry Spirit of the West Bed & Bath

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Dennis Pence, CEO Dennis Pence, Pres. Donald Robson, CFO/VP-Finance and Admin. Karen Reed, VP-Catalog Mktg. Randy Long, VP-Human Resources Tom Scott, VP/CIO Robin Sheldon, VP-Merch. Tony Saulino, VP-Oper. Donald Robson, Treas.

Phone: 208-263-2266 Fax: 208-263-1582 Toll-Free: 1-800-262-0040 Address: 1 Coldwater Creek Drive, Sandpoint, ID, 83864 Internet Address: www.coldwater-creek.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $325,200 1998 Sales: $246,700 1997 Sales: $143,100 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: CWTR

1999 Profits: $10,700 1998 Profits: $11,700 1997 Profits: $5,900 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,290

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $241,904 Second Exec. Salary: $171,269

Bonus: $99,450 Bonus: $49,920

Unique Native American-inspired products.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

204

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

COLE NATIONAL CORPORATION Industry Group Code: 44613 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Things Remembered Pearle

200-1,000 1,700-3,000

Profits: 4

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Malls/Kiosks Mall

450 stores/368 kiosks 471 company-owned/409 franchised

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Eyeglasses, Retail Toys/hobbies/collectibles

Cole National Corporation (CNC), through subsidiaries owned by its direct subsidiary, Cole National Group, Inc., is a leading provider of eyewear products, optometric services and personalized gifts with over 2,800 retail locations in the United states, Canada, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. The company’s operations are conducted through two principal operating units: Cole Optical, which consists of Cole Vision and Pearle, and Things Remembered Inc. Cole Optical contributes over three quarters of CNC’s net revenue with over 2,000 company-owned and franchised locations. Cole Vision operates principally under the Sears Optical, Ward’s Optical and BJ’s Optical names and orders eyewear from the company’s five centralized manufacturing laboratories. The company’s Pearle operations contain labs which allow for on-site manufacture of eyewear. CNC’s Things Remembered Inc. subsidiary operates over 800 stores and kiosks that offer an assortment of engravable items and offers engraving services. The company is currently working on an E-commerce site for Things Remembered by fall of 1999.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Cole Vision Corporation Cole National Group, Inc. Pearle, Inc. Sears Optical Montgomery Ward Vision Center Things Remembered The Gift Center at Sears

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Jeffrey A. Cole, CEO Brian B. Smith, COO/Pres. Jeffrey A. Cole, CFO Wayne L. Mosley, VP/Controller Brian B. Smith, Sr. VP-Business Dev./General Counsel/Sec. Joseph Gaglioti, VP/Treas. Steve Lieberman, Pres.-Pearle Vision David Pierson, Pres.-Licensed Brands

Phone: 440-449-4100 Fax: 440-461-3489 Toll-Free: Address: 5915 Landerbrook Drive, Mayfield Heights, OH, 44124 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $1,068,200 1998 Sales: $1,000,200 1997 Sales: $684,000 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $515,892

Stock Ticker: CNJ

1999 Profits: $14,300 1998 Profits: $-6,300 1997 Profits: $-28,300 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $43,651

Employees: 14,400

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $668,942 Second Exec. Salary: $510,289

Bonus: $283,500 Bonus: $220,500

One of the largest optical retailers in the world/Does much of its business in popular, well-known department stores.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Liggett-Stashower, Cleveland, OH

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

205

COLES MYER LTD Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Coles/Bi-Lo/Liquorland/Red Rooster Myer Grace Bros Target/Fosseys/Katies Kmart/Kmart Tyre & Auto/World 4 Kids/Officeworks Charlies Carters

12,500-50,000 130,000-555,000 60,000 16,000-85,000

Profits: 5

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line

1,188 69 498 239 18

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel-Women's, Retail Mail marketing covering apparel, gifts, liquor Supplier of food and non-food items

Coles Myer Ltd. is an Australian-based retailer, owning and operating stores in most sectors of the Australian retail market, and in the general merchandise and ladies’ apparel sectors of the New Zealand retail market together with a mail marketing business covering apparel, gifts, liquor, and other products. The company supplies a wide range of food and non-food items in supermarkets, discount stores, department stores, clothing stores, liquor stores, fast food stores, office supplies stores, automotive service centers and by mail order. Coles Myer trades under the names of Coles, Bi-Lo, Red Rooster, Liquorland, Vintage Cellars, Kmart, Kmart Tyre & Auto, Tyremaster, Officeworks, World 4 Kids, Target, Fosseys, Katies, Myer, Grace Bros and Myer Direct. In New Zealand, the company trades as Kmart and Katies. The company currently operates 1,994 stores in Australia and New Zealand. The company also supports 50 franchised stores. Coles Myer's businesses are categorized into four groups: Food and Liquor, General Merchandise, Myer Grace Bros and Apparel and Home. Liquorland recently entered the Queensland market with the acquisition of the G&P Hotels Group, consisting of five hotels, five liquor barns and seven detached licenses. Coles Myer also purchased the Charlie Carters supermarket chain, involving 18 stores located in country centers of western Australia. A shopping center opened including new Coles, Kmart Millennium, Bi-Lo and Liquorland stores.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Charlie Carters G&P Hotel Group Coles Myer Finance Limited

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Dennis K. Eck, CEO John Schmoll, CFO Jon Wood, CIO

Phone: 03-9829-3111 Fax: 03-9829-6787 Toll-Free: Address: 800 Toorak Road, Tooronga, Australia, 3146 Internet Address: www.colesmeyer.com.au Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $12,466,800 1997 Sales: $14,297,500 1996 Sales: $14,583,300 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: CM

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $238,300 1997 Profits: $289,600 1996 Profits: $217,000 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 148,346

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $1,733,912 Second Exec. Salary: $514,480

Bonus: $1,760,660 Bonus: $100,000

Operates through many markets/Large Australian presence.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International: y

206

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

COLLEGIATE PACIFIC INC Industry Group Code: 45111 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 8

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 8

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Direct Sales

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Sporting Goods, Retail

Collegiate Pacific, Inc. is engaged in the business of the mail order marketing of sports equipment primarily to institutional customers located throughout the United States. The company’s principal customers include country clubs, schools, YMCAs and YWCAs, municipal recreation departments and other governmental agencies. The company offers a broad line of sporting equipment, weight lifting equipment and other recreational products, and provides after sale customer service through toll-free numbers. The company currently has a master mailing list of over 200,000 potential customers and intends to distribute approximately 700,000 catalogs and fliers in the near future. The company also uses other forms of solicitations such as trade shows, telemarketing, broadcast fax programs and the Internet. Recently, the company acquired Vantage Products International, Inc. and Product Merchandising, Inc.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Vantage Products International, Inc. Product Merchandising, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Michael J. Blumenfeld, Pres./CEO Arthur J. Coerver, COO

Phone: 972-243-8100 Fax: Toll-Free: 800-336-5996 Address: 13950 Senlac, Suite 200, Farmers Branch, TX, 75235 Internet Address: www.collegiatepacific.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $3,284 1997 Sales: $ 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: BUBA

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $- 679 1997 Profits: $ 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $77,000 Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Provides after-sale customer service/Broad institutional customer base.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

207

COMP USA INC Industry Group Code: 44312 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Profits: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

CompUSA Computer Superstore Computer City

27,000 26,000

$38,394,000 per store

Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line

200 7

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Computer and Software Stores, Retail Technical services for products Mail order products Training classes for software and technology

CompUSA, Inc. is a leading retailer of microcomputers and related products and services, principally through its computer superstores located throughout the U.S. The company currently operates 200 computer cuperstores in 79 metropolitan areas in 40 states, and seven in Canada. CompUSA, Inc. also operates seven stores under the small market concept. The company recently tested the small-market store concept by opening stores ranging from 6,000 to 15,000 square feet. The operations of its previous acquisition of PCs Compleat, Inc. were fully integrated into the company’s mail operations and became a part of the company’s CompUSA Direct division. CompUSA Direct operates a distribution and configuration facility with integrated telephone, computer, and distribution systems. Recently, the company completed its acquisition of Computer City, Inc. from Tandy Corporation. The acquired operations include 96 retail stores in the United States, including two locations not yet opened. The acquired operations also include seven retail stores in Canada and six corporate sales and/or training offices. The company also acquired a call center and a technical configuration center. The acquired stores in Canada will continue to be operated under the Computer City name. All CompUSA employees initially receive training appropriate for the team member's position, along with complete CompUSA orientation. Training for specific product lines and continuing education programs for all employees are conducted on an ongoing basis. New store managers participate in a general-manager-intraining program before they take a position in a store.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: CompUSA Computer Superstores PCs Compleat, Inc. Computer City, Inc. CompUSA Direct

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. James F. Halpin, CEO James F. Halpin, Pres. James E. Skinner, Exec. VP/CFO Ronald J. Gilmore, Exec. VP-Mktg. Melvin D. McCall, Sr. VP-Human Resources Honorio J. Padron, Sr. VP/CIO Lawrence N. Mondry, Exec. VP-Merch. J. Samuel Crowley, Exec. VP-Oper. Paul B. Poyfair, Exec. VP-New Business Dev. James E. Skinner, Treas. Harold F. Compton, Exec. VP/COO/Pres.-CompUSA Stores

Phone: 972-982-4000 Fax: 972-982-4276 Toll-Free: 800-266-7872 Address: 14951 North Dallas Parkway, Dallas, TX, 75240 Internet Address: www.compusa.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $5,286,000 1997 Sales: $4,610,523 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: CPU

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $31,500 1997 Profits: $93,886 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 18,600

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $959,615 Second Exec. Salary: $796,154

Bonus: $744,851 Bonus: $521,926

Terrific buying power as a leading retailer of microcomputers/Offers customers the ability to special order approximately 25,000 additional products not offered in its in-store selections.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 4 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Italia/Gal Advertising, Los Angeles, CA

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

208

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

COMPAQ COMPUTER CORP Industry Group Code: 3341A Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 5

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Direct marketing Compaq Works outlet store On-line sales

Number of Stores: 1

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Computer and Software Products Handheld portable systems Corporate servers Monitors and accessories Technology services

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Compaq Works Deskpro ProLinea LTE Elite Rack-Mountable ProLiant Digital Equipment Corp. Presario Alta Vista Search Engine

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Michael D. Capellas, CEO Earl L. Mason, Sr. VP/CFO Richard N. Snyder, Sr. VP-Worldwide Sales and Mktg. Hans. W. Gutsch, Sr. VP-Human Resources and Environment William D. Strecker, Sr. VP-Tech. John W. White, VP/CIO Gregory E. Petsch, Gregory E. Petsch William D. Strecker, Sr. VP-Corp. Dev.

Phone: 281-370-0670 Fax: 281-374-1740 Toll-Free: 800-231-0900 Address: 20555 State Highway 249, Houston, TX, 77070 Internet Address: www.compaq.com Notes/Other Info:

The number one personal computer maker in the world, Compaq Computer Corporation owns approximately 12% of the PC market and is additionally the third largest computer firm in the world. Besides personal computers themselves, the company offers a variety of related products including handheld portable systems, corporate servers to assist company operations and a slew of technology services. Compaq recently bought Digital Equipment to expand its presence in the high-end computer market. The firm faces a serious challenge in updating the Digital Equipment line and retaining major customers. Recent financial results have been disappointing. The company derives the majority of its revenues from sales to business customers, but additionally markets products to home users, governments, schools and students. Compaq Computer Corporation acquired the Alta Vista Internet search engine business when it bought Digital Equipment, but it sold off Alta Vista in mid 1999. Meanwhile, Compaq has faced many challenges as a result of both the Digital acquisition and the intense competition that continues to proliferate throughout the PC business. Low profit margins and rapid changes in the consumer market. Important trends include the fact that many Internet portals are now either giving away free PCs, or coupons good for huge discounts on PCs, to consumers who sign long term contracts for Internet service. Meanwhile, there is a fast-growing market for PCs that sell for much less than $1,000, and in some cases less than $500. At the same time, competitors like Gateway and Dell that sell direct to the customer are stealing huge chunks of market share from the stores that traditionally sell Compaq's merchandise. Compaq is fighting back with its own catalog, mail-order and on-line businesses. Compaq also operates a retail outlet store in Houston, Texas. Compaq is committed to attracting, developing, rewarding and retaining a diverse workforce.

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $31,169,000 1997 Sales: $24,584,000 1996 Sales: $18,109,000 1995 Sales: $

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-2,743,000 1997 Profits: $1,855,000 1996 Profits: $1,313,000 1995 Profits: $

Stock Ticker: CPQ Employees: 71,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE: OTHER THOUGHTS:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $1,479,167 Second Exec. Salary: $520,830

Bonus: $3,000,000 Bonus: $625,000

Leading global supplier of personal computers/New features to make Internet access more user-friendly.

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes)

Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 West: Southwest: Midwest: Southeast: Northeast: y Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Ammirati Puris & Lintas, Inc., New York, NY Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

209

CONCEPTS DIRECT INC Industry Group Code: 45411 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 23

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 20

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Catalog only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Specialty Merchandise Personalized items Peanuts cartoon merchandise Collectible merchandise

Through its Colorful Images and Linda Anderson catalogs, Concepts Direct, Inc. offers consumers personalized labels, notepads, home decorative merchandise, gifts, casual apparel and a multitude of other products. The company’s database, with information on over 7 million customers, tracks ordering preferences and helps decide which of the catalogs will be mailed to a particular customer every year—77 million get mailed annually. The company is currently testing catalogs that feature collectible items and items featuring Peanuts cartoon characters as well. These catalogs, Snoopy, Etc., A Catalog With Character and Linda Anderson’s Collectibles, will soon be added to the company’s permanent catalog collection. Concepts Direct, Inc. is focusing on achieving the goal of creating and operating multiple direct marketing concepts that sell merchandise profitably to a specific targeted customer base. Currently, the company is expanding the distribution of its catalogs and is concentrating its development efforts on the Linda Anderson’s Collectibles and Snoopy, etc. catalogs. Concepts Direct, Inc. is additionally implementing several ideas developed for new product lines and direct marketing concepts.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Colorful Images Linda Anderson Linda Anderson's Collectibles Impressions Snoopy, Etc., A Catalog With Character

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Phillip A. Wiland, CEO J. Michael Wolfe, Pres./COO H. Franklin Marcus Jr., CFO Sally Doyle, VP- Human Resources H. Franklin Marcus Jr., Treas.

Phone: 303-772-9171 Fax: 303-682-7140 Toll-Free: Address: 1351 South Sunset Street, Longmont, CO, 80501 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $84,800 1997 Sales: $78,500 1996 Sales: $51,100 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: CDIR

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-1,400 1997 Profits: $1,600 1996 Profits: $1,900 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

530

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $198,723 Second Exec. Salary: $178,084

Bonus: $60,840 Bonus: $54,383

Designs and manufactures many of its own unique products.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

210

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

CONCORD EFS INC Industry Group Code: 52252A Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Direct marketing only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Transaction Processing Authorization services Trucking services Check services Electronic payment and verification terminals

Concord E.F.S., Inc. is involved in the transaction processing and payment services industry, providing a fully integrated range of services and products for credit card, debit card and EBT card transactions, trucking company services, payroll processing, payment settlement and verification data compilation. Concord Computing Corporation, one of the largest subsidiaries of Concord E.F.S., is primarily engaged in check authorization and point-of-sale terminal driving, servicing and maintenance for grocery store chains. The subsidiary additionally owns and operates automatic teller machines at truck stops and grocery stores nationwide. For the Northwest portion of the United States, the company’s Concord Retail Services, Inc. subsidiary provides point-of-sale driving, serving and maintenance for similar point-of-sale terminals. The Concord Equipment Sales, Inc. subsidiary makes manufacturer purchase of point-of-sale terminal products and communication equipment. E.F.S. National Bank, the company’s largest subsidiary, sells credit, debit and electronic benefits transfer card authorization, data capture and settlement services to retailers and grocery stores. Recently, the company added two additional subsidiaries: EFS Federal Savings Bank and Pay Systems of America, Inc. The company plans to continue expanding through the addition of more automatic teller machine locations.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Concord Computing Corporation EFS National Bank Concord Retail Services, Inc. Concord Equipment Sales, Inc. Network EFT, Inc. EFS Federal Savings Bank Pay Systems of America

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Dan M. Palmer, CEO Vickie Brown, COO/Sr. VP Edward A. Labry III, Pres.

Phone: 901-371-8000 Fax: 901-371-8050 Toll-Free: Address: 2525 Horizon Lake Drive, Suite 120, Memphis, TN, 38133 Internet Address: www.ceft.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $375,700 1997 Sales: $240,000 1996 Sales: $166,700 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: CEFT

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $63,800 1997 Profits: $42,700 1996 Profits: $26,800 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,102

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $466,538 Second Exec. Salary: $417,777

Bonus: $331,250 Bonus: $262,000

Advanced transaction processing services.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

211

CONSOLIDATED STORES CORP Industry Group Code: 45291 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Profits: 4

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Big Lots and Odd Lots

22,000-30,000

In-line

Mac Frugal's Bargains/Pic 'N' Save Kay-Bee Toy Stores

22,000-30,000 6,000-8,000

In-line Mall/In-line

All stores (except for KayBee) amount to 1,128 326 1,322

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Discount Stores, Retail Toys/hobbies/collectibles Discount stores

Consolidated Stores Corporation is a value retailer focused on closeout merchandise and toys seeking to provide the budget conscious consumer with a broad range of quality, name-brand products at exceptional values. The company currently operates 2,450 stores located in all 50 states and Puerto Rico and is the nation's largest closeout retailer and largest mall based toy retailer. The company operates 1,128 retail closeout stores, primarily under the name Odd Lots, Big Lots, Mac Frugal's Bargains and Pic 'N' Save. The company also operates 1,332 retail toy and closeout toy stores primarily under the names K B Toys, K B Toy Works and K B Toy Outlet. The company recently acquired Mac Frugal's, uniting the nation's two leading closeout retailers and expanding Consolidated's market. Consolidated Stores believes in promotion from within, with many of its management personnel starting as clerks, bookkeepers, and other entry-level people. The company believes in building ties within their neighborhoods, including teaming up with The Literacy Intitiative, to pair volunteer tutors and adult learners with local service groups. They provide programs such as Comptuer Assisted Learning, G.E.D. Test Preparation, English as a Second language and One-To-One Tutoring.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Odd Lots Big Lots Kay-Bee Toy Stores Mac Frugal's Bargains/Closeouts, Inc. PNS Stores, Inc. T.R.O. Inc. CSC Distribution, Inc. CS Ross Company

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. William G. Kelley, CEO Michael L. Glazer, Pres. Michael J. Potter, Sr. VP/CFO Kent Larsson, Sr. VP-Mktg. and Sales Promotion Brad A. Waite, Sr. VP-Human Resources M. Steven Bromet, VP/CIO

Phone: 302-478-4896 Fax: 614-278-6676 Toll-Free: Address: P.O. Box 8985, Wilmington, DE, 19899 Internet Address: www.cnstores.com Notes/Other Info: [email protected]

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $4,193,700 1998 Sales: $4,055,302 1997 Sales: $2,647,516 1996 Sales: $1,406,016 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: CNS

1999 Profits: $96,800 1998 Profits: $85,900 1997 Profits: $83,917 1996 Profits: $64,406 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 50,324

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $935,000 Second Exec. Salary: $630,000

Bonus: $1,700,000 Bonus: $1,200,000

World's largest close-out retailer/Growth through acquisitions.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 9 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: SBC Advertising, Columbus, OH

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

212

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

COPART INC Industry Group Code: 4411 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 8

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 4

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Auctions only

Number of Stores: 60

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Used automobile auctions

Copart, Inc. provides vehicle suppliers, primarily insurance companies, with a full range of services to process and sell salvaged vehicles through auctions, principally to licensed dismantlers, rebuilders and used vehicle dealers. Salvaged vehicles are either damaged vehicles deemed a total loss for insurance or business purposes or are recovered stolen vehicles for which an insurance settlement with the vehicle owner has been made. The company offers vehicle suppliers a full range of services that expedite each stage of the salvaged vehicle auction process and minimize administrative and processing costs. The company recently acquired six additional salvaged vehicle auction facilities and opened three new facilities. In addition, the company has expanded its operations at six existing facilities with the acquisition of over 30 acres of adjacent land. In addition, the company and United Services Automobile Association signed a comprehensive agreement for state-of-the-art electronic commerce between the two companies. The company has also implemented a vehicle imaging system at all of its 60 facilities nationwide. Customers will soon be able to view on-line multiple images of nearly every car in inventory. The company has also introduced Internet bidding for vehicles at all of Copart’s auctions. This will be the first program of its type for the industry.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Central Minnesota Salvage Center O'Neal's Equipment Sales, Inc. Southern Salvage, Inc. Auto Storage Auction Pool Mid Iowa Salvage Pool, Inc. Auto Salvage Pools, Inc. Auto Pool Auction Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Willis J. Johnson, CEO James E. Meeks, Exec. VP/COO Wayne R. Hilty, Sr. VP/CFO Martin L. Schmidt, Sr. VP-Corp. Dev. A. Jayson Adair, Pres.

Phone: 707-748-5003 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 5500 East Second Street, Benicia, CA, 94510 Internet Address: www.copart.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $114,200 1997 Sales: $126,300 1996 Sales: $118,200 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: CPRT

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $15,200 1997 Profits: $12,000 1996 Profits: $11,200 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,181

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $311,538 Second Exec. Salary: $192,115

Bonus: $150,000 Bonus: $95,000

Introducing Internet salvaged car bidding/Expanding facilities.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

213

CORNERSTONE PROPANE PARTNERS LP Industry Group Code: 44719 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Cornerstone

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Propane Retailing

Cornerstone Propane Partners, L.P. was formed in 1996 to acquire, own and operate the propane businesses and assets of SYN, Inc., Empire Energy Corporation and CGI Holdings, Inc. Cornerstone is the fifth largest retail marketer of propane in the United States in terms of volume, serving more than 360,000 residential, commercial, industrial and agricultural customers from 296 customer service centers in 26 states. The partnership's operations are concentrated in the East Coast, South Central and West Coast regions of the United States. The partnership is principally engaged in the retail distribution of propane for residential, commercial, industrial, agricultural and other retail uses. The partnership's wholesale operations engage in the marketing of propane to independent dealers, major interstate marketers and the chemical and petrochemical industries. The partnership announced a recent entrance into a definitive agreement to combine operations with Propane Continental, Inc. Propane Continental, the nation's 19th largest retail propane distributor, operates 34 propane customer service centers selling over 50 million gallons in 11 states. The partnership also joined with Security Gas, Interstate Gas Service and Allstate Gas Company, and purchased C&M Propane and Ballard Gas Service. Cornerstone has entered into an operating agreement with Graves Butane Company of Arizona as well.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Cornerstone Propane, L.P. Synergy Inc. Empire Energy Corporation CGI Holdings, Inc. Coast Energy Group Propane Continental, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Keith G. Baxter, Pres./CEO Charles J. Kittrell, Exec. VP/COO Ronald J. Goedde, Exec. VP/CFO Ronald J. Goedde, Treas.

Phone: 408-724-1921 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 432 Westridge Drive, Watsonville, CA, 95076 Internet Address: www.cornerstonepropane.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $768,100 1997 Sales: $389,600 1996 Sales: $98,800 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: CNO

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $9,400 1997 Profits: $5,800 1996 Profits: $3,700 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 2,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $191,485 Second Exec. Salary: $159,933

Bonus: $590,814 Bonus: $15,000

Growth through acquisitions/Numerous beneficial partnerships.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

214

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

CORPORATE EXPRESS INC Industry Group Code: 4532 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 4

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 4

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Direct marketing only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Office Supplies, Retail Computer supplies Desktop software

Corporate Express, Inc. (CE) is a leading provider of office supplies and services to large corporations. Since 1991, CE has expanded through acquisitions from a regional operation in Colorado to operations throughout the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Australia and other markets. CE provides a broad array of non-production goods and services to its customers while reducing overall procurement costs and providing a high level of customer service. The company’s current product and service offerings include office supplies, paper, computer and imaging supplies, computer desktop software, office furniture, janitorial and cleaning supplies, advertising specialties, forms management, printing, same-day local delivery services and distribution logistics management. The company’s target customers are large corporations with more than 100 employees which it targets through a direct sales force. CE has 700 locations, including 80 distribution centers and a fleet of more than 10,000 owned or contracted vehicles. In 1997, CE acquired 17 companies with revenues of approximately $150 million. Another acquisition involved a merger with Data Documents, Inc. in late 1997. About 15,800 employees are in regional warehouse, delivery and distribution operations, and 6,500 are in sales and marketing, order processing, and customer service. Approximately one percent of the employees are represented by labor unions. The company believes in teamwork and risk-taking, and looks for creative thinkers, problem solvers and challenge seekers. Flexibility and informality are the standards at Corporate Express.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Data Documents, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Jirka Rysavy, CEO Robert L. King, Pres./COO Sam Leno, Exec. VP/CFO John P. O'Loughlin, VP-Human Resources Michael Jones, VP-Info. Services/CIO Joanne C. Farver, VP/Controller

Phone: 303-664-2000 Fax: 303-664-3981 Toll-Free: Address: 1 Environmental Way, Broomfield, CO, 80021-3416 Internet Address: www.corporateexpress.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $3,752,600 1998 Sales: $3,573,300 1997 Sales: $3,196,056 1996 Sales: $1,890,639 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: CEXP

1999 Profits: $-73,400 1998 Profits: $44,400 1997 Profits: $42,000 1996 Profits: $5,551 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 27,300

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $337,885 Second Exec. Salary: $322,115

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

High level of service provides convenience to customers.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: McClain Finlon Advertising, Denver, CO; MBA Recruitment Advertising, Sparta, NJ

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

215

CORT BUSINESS SERVICES CORPORATION Industry Group Code: 4532 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 6

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 5

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

CORT Aaron Rents Alco General Furniture

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Office Furniture Stores, Retail Used furniture sales

CORT Business Services Corporation, through its whollyowned subsidiary CORT Furniture Rental Corporation, is the leading national provider of rental furniture, accessories and related services in the growing and fragmented rent-to-rent segment of the furniture rental industry. The company focuses on corporate customers by offering office and residential furniture and related accessories through a direct sales force and network of 109 showrooms in 32 states and the District of Columbia. 80% of CORT’s rental revenues are derived from corporate customers, while the remainder are derived principally from rentals to middle-and upper-income level individuals. Recent business acquisitions include the purchase of several furniture rental companies enabling expansion in the midwestern and northeastern U.S. These companies include Furniture Rentors of America, Inc., Instant Interiors Corporation, Alco Furniture Rental Co. and IS Furniture Rental Corporation. CORT also purchased three trade show services businesses, including certain assets of the trade show portion of Aaron Rents, Inc., that operate in nine major markets. The combination of the firm’s national network with the experience of these organizations should provide CORT with a competitive advantage in the trade show and convention services business. The firm also established Relocation Central, a website that provides information about major cities such as apartment finders, school systems, movers and local recreation for relocating individuals. The company also recently entered into a definitive merger agreement with an investor group that includes Bruckmann, Rosser, Sherrill & Co., Inc. and members of the company's management team.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: CORT Furniture Rental Corporation General Furniture Leasing Citigroup Alco Furniture Rental Co. Aaron Rents, Inc. IS Furniture Rental Corp. Instant Interiors Corporation

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Paul N. Arnold, CEO Paul N. Arnold, Pres. Frances Ann Ziemniak, Exec. VP/CFO/Sec. Steven D. Jobes, VP-Mktg., Sales, and Nat'l Accounts Maureen C. Thune, VP/Controller/Asst. Sec. Steven D. Jobes, VP-Merch. William T. Swets, VP-Business Dev.

Phone: 703-968-8500 Fax: 703-968-8501 Toll-Free: 800-962-2678 Address: 4401 Fair Lakes Court, Fairfax, VA, 22033 Internet Address: www.cort1.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $318,964 1997 Sales: $287,218 1996 Sales: $234,149 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: CBZ

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $23,395 1997 Profits: $22,326 1996 Profits: $15,936 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 2,700

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $233,750 Second Exec. Salary: $142,625

Bonus: $233,750 Bonus: $100,716

Only national company in the growing rent-to-rent industry.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

216

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

COSMETIC CENTER INC (THE) Industry Group Code: 44612 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales:

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

The Cosmetic Center Prestige Fragrance & Cosmetics

6,200 1,650

Profits:

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

In-line In-line

66 201

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Cosmetics/Beauty supplies, Retail Cosmetic products wholesale distributor Hair salons

The Cosmetic Center, Inc. is a specialty retailer of brand name cosmetic, fragrance, skin care, hair and personal care products and related items sold at value prices. The company operates 60 retail and 190 outlet stores in the United States, operating principally under the names The Cosmetic Center and Prestige Fragrance & Cosmetics. Retail stores operate in strip shopping centers and offer a broad range of brand name prestige and mass merchandised products. The retail stores are located principally in the mid-Atlantic region and Chicago. Outlet stores operate in outlet malls nationwide and sell first quality, surplus and discontinued products from a wide variety of major manufacturers. The company is currently developing a new retail prototype to provide customers with a more pleasant shopping experience while maintaining its heritage of offering a wide selection of brand name department store and mass beauty products at discount prices. Additionally, the company is in the process of redefining marketing and advertising strategies and utilizing its Beauty Advantage frequent shopper program to maximize customer loyalty. Also, the company is focused on creating a stand-alone company and completing the functional separation of Cosmetic Center from its parent company, Revlon.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: The Cosmetic Center The Salon at The Cosmetic Center Susan Kay Cosmetics, Inc. Anita Jean Cosmetics, Inc. Adam Michael Cosmetics, Inc. M. Steven Cosmetic Company, Inc. Revlon

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. I. Howard Deiner, CEO I. Howard Deiner, Pres. Dwight W. Crawley, Sr. VP-Finance/CFO Allan Goldman, Sr. VP-Merch. Helen Kuebler, Sr. VP-Store Oper.

Phone: 410-309-4676 Fax: 410-309-4600 Toll-Free: Address: 8700 Robert Fulton Drive, Columbia, MD, 21046 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $ 1997 Sales: $159,000 1996 Sales: $153,800 1995 Sales: $132,300

Stock Ticker: COCQE

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $ 1997 Profits: $-4,800 1996 Profits: $-4,800 1995 Profits: $ 300

Employees: 2,820

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $387,474 Second Exec. Salary: $365,782

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Offers a large selection of cosmetic products, including approximately 25,000 brand name and massmerchandised cosmetic products.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 3 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

217

COST PLUS INC Industry Group Code: 421 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 6

Profits: 4

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Cost Plus World Market

15,900

$3,707,058 per store/$233 per sq. ft.

In-line

85

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Furniture Stores, Retail Gourmet Foods Gift items Tabletop items Wine

Cost Plus, Inc. is a leading specialty retailer of casual home living products. The company offers a large selection of unique products -- many of which are imported -- at competitive prices. Cost Plus’ four product categories include the following: Home decor including furniture, rugs, and baskets, tabletop items including glassware, ceramics and kitchen utensils; gift items such as hand-crafted products, cards, jewelry and seasonal goods, and consumables such as wine, gourmet foods, coffees and teas. Cost Plus operates 70 stores in 12 states. The average selling space of a Cost Plus World Market is 16,000 square feet. The company’s expansion strategy is to open stores primarily in metropolitan and suburban markets that can support multiple stores and enable the company to achieve advertising, distribution and operating efficiencies. The company may also selectively enter midsize markets that can support one or two stores that the company believes can meet its profitability criteria. Cost Plus stores, operated under the name Cost Plus World Market, are located predominantly in high traffic metropolitan and suburban locales, often near major malls. The company recently opened a total of 12 stores, including seven in existing markets in Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, Portland and San Diego and five in new markets in Detroit, Grand Rapids and Madison.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Cost Plus World Market

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Murry H. Dashe, CEO Murry H. Dashe, Pres. Patricia T. Saucy, VP-Finance/Sec./CFO Kathi P. Lentzsch, Exec. VP-Mktg. Joan S. Fujii, Sr. VP-Human Resources Kathi P. Lentzsch, Exec. VP-Merch. Dennis R. Daugherty, Exec. VP-Oper.

Phone: 510-893-7300 Fax: 510-893-3681 Toll-Free: 1-800-COST-PLUS Address: 201 Clay Street, Oakland, CA, 94607 Internet Address: www.streetlink.com/cpwm/ Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $315,100 1998 Sales: $260,500 1997 Sales: $214,800 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: CPWM

1999 Profits: $13,200 1998 Profits: $10,000 1997 Profits: $7,400 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 2,114

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $387,077 Second Exec. Salary: $200,000

Bonus: $234,181 Bonus: $77,000

Rapidly growing/Imports goods from over 45 countries worldwide/One-stop shopping.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 5 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

218

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

COST U LESS INC Industry Group Code: 45291 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 17

Profits: 15

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Cost-U-Less

29,300

$12,169,181 per store/$415 per sq. ft.

Free-standing

11

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Warehouse Clubs & Superstores, Retail

Cost-U-Less, Inc. operates a chain of warehouse club stores in island markets of United States territories throughout the Pacific and Caribbean. The company, which purposefully selects remote island locations, operates a total of seven stores. These locations exist in Hawaii, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam and American Samoa. Additionally, the company operates one mainland store in California. Cost-U-Less stores sell a variety of products, including alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, candy, snacks, meat, produce, frozen foods, tobacco, health and beauty supplies, office products, electronics, housewares, furniture and sporting goods. The company plans to eventually increase net sales through expansion via opening new locations. Cost-U-Less, Inc. intends to open an additional 26 stores throughout the Caribbean and Pacific by the year 2003.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Cost-U-Less

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Michael J. Rose, CEO Michael J. Rose, Pres. Allan C. Youngberg, CFO/Exec. VP Allan C. Youngberg, Treas.

Phone: 425-644-4241 Fax: 425-641-3383 Toll-Free: Address: 12410 SE 32nd Street, Bellvue, WA, 98005 Internet Address: www.costuless.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $133,900 1997 Sales: $124,900 1996 Sales: $134,800 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: CULS

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $1,200 1997 Profits: $ 400 1996 Profits: $ 400 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

450

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $250,000 Second Exec. Salary: $175,000

Bonus: $37,000 Bonus: $28,900

Operates in remote island markets/Expanding rapidly.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

219

COSTCO COMPANIES INC Industry Group Code: 45291 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Profits: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Costco Wholesale

129,000

$85,720,791 per store/$664 per sq. ft.

Free-standing/in-line

278

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Warehouse Clubs & Superstores, Retail

Costco Companies, Inc., formerly PriceCostco, Inc., operates membership warehouses based on the strategy that offering members very low prices on selections of nationally branded and private label products in a wide range of merchandise categories will produce rapid inventory turnover and high sales volumes. The company has a chain of approximately 285 warehouses in 26 states, Canada and the U.K. The company recently announced the formation of a joint venture in the Republic of Korea with Shinsegae Department Store Co., Ltd. to acquire the membership warehouse club operation from Shinsegae. Previously, Shinsegae had operated two warehouse clubs under the name Price Club, for which Shinsegae had paid a license fee. The company also announced the signing of a lease by its wholly owned Japan subsidiary, Costco Wholesale Japan, Ltd., for the lease of land and construction of a Costco warehouse in Fukuoka, Japan.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Price Enterprises, Inc. Price Club Costco Wholesale Shinsegae Department Store Co., Ltd. Costco Wholesale Japan, Ltd.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. James D. Sinegal, CEO James D. Sinegal, Pres. Richard A. Galanti, Exec. VP/CFO Ginnie Roeglin, Nat'l Mktg. Mgr. John Matthews, Sr. VP-Human Resources and Risk Mgmt. Franz E. Lazarus, Exec. VP/COO-Int'l Oper.

Phone: 425-313-8100 Fax: 206-313-8103 Toll-Free: Address: 999 Lake Drive, Issaquah, WA, 98027 Internet Address: www.pricecostco.com Notes/Other Info: [email protected]

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $24,269,900 1997 Sales: $21,874,400 1996 Sales: $19,566,500 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: COST

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $459,800 1997 Profits: $312,200 1996 Profits: $248,800 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 63,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $325,000 Second Exec. Salary: $300,000

Bonus: $100,000 Bonus: $200,000

Pioneer of the membership warehouse concept/Very high volume stores.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

220

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

CREATIVE COMPUTERS INC Industry Group Code: 44312 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 4

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 4

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Catalog only

Number of Stores: 1

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Computer and Software Products

Founded in 1987, Creative Computers, Inc. is a direct marketer of personal computer hardware, software and peripheral products. The company’s catalogs include PC Mall, DataCom Mall, Mac Mall and ComputAbility, and generate over 85% of the company’s sales. In addition, Creative Computers, Inc. sells products via telemarketing and Internet advertising. The firm’s uBID website, set in an auction format, is taking off so quickly that the company has closed seven of its eight showrooms to concentrate on selling via the Internet and catalogs. The uBID website offers computer-related products and consumer electronics to individual consumers, home offices, small businesses and large corporations. Creative Computers believes that its knowledgeable sales force and colorful catalogs are instrumental in placing the company in a leading position in its industry. Technical support offered by the company, along with a high level of customer service, results in the company's earning of a broad, loyal consumer base. Creative Computers is additionally focusing on the WINTEL (Windows/Intel) market through its PC Mall catalog.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: MacMall PC Mall DataCom Mall uBID

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Frank F. Khulusi, CEO Frank F. Khulusi, Pres. Richard M. Finkbeiner, CFO Daniel J. De Vries, Exec. VP-Mktg. and Sales David R. Burcham, Exec. VP-Oper. Gregory K. Jones, Pres./CEO-uBID

Phone: 310-354-5600 Fax: 310353-7475 Toll-Free: 800-222-2808 Address: 2555 W. 190th Street, Torrance, CA, 90504 Internet Address: www.creativecomputers.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $6,400 1997 Sales: $7,119 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: CAP

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $- 600 1997 Profits: $ 891 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

64

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $395,266 Second Exec. Salary: $233,063

Bonus: $25,000 Bonus: $94,653

Offers more than 14,500 products/Continues to increase its line.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

221

CROSS CONTINENT AUTO Industry Group Code: 4411 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales:

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Plains/Midway/WestgateChevrolet Quality Nissan/Nissan West Lynn Hickey Dodge Denver Toyota/Toyota West Chaisson Motor Cars/BMW Henderson

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Free-standing Free-standing Free-standing Free-standing Free-standing

9 4 1 2 3

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Auto Dealers, Retail Used car dealerships Car maintenance and service repairs Car financing and insurance

Cross-Continent Auto Retailers, Inc., a subsidiary of Auto Nation, is a leading operator and acquirer of retail automotive dealerships. The company currently operates 11 retail locations with four dealerships in Texas, four in Nevada, one in Colorado and one in Oklahoma. Through these dealerships, BMW, Nissan, Toyota, Dodge and Chevrolet are offered. Cross-Continent generates its revenue from the sale of new and used vehicles, fees for repair and maintenance services, the sale of replacement parts, fees and commissions from arranging financing and credit insurance in connection with vehicle sales, and the sale of extended warranties on vehicles. Three recent acquisitions located in Nevada with JRJ Investment, Inc., which owns Chaisson Motor Cars and Chaisson BMW, Sahara Nissan, Inc. and Toyota West Sales and Service, Inc., have contributed to the company’s growth. CrossContinent also recently purchased Douglas Toyota, Inc. in Denver, Colorado. Its strategy entails acquiring significant market share in target markets where the focus is on dealer groups that own multiple lines in a single city, as well as on large, single dealerships possessing significant market share. Cross-Continent is the only Chevrolet and Nissan dealer in the Amarillo, Texas market and the only BMW, Land Rover, Volkswagen and Audi dealer in the Las Vegas, Nevada market.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Toyota BMW Sahara Nissan, Inc. Dodge Chevrolet JRJ Investments Chaisson BMW Douglas Toyota, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Bill A. Gilliland, CEO James F. Purser, CFO/VP-Finance

Phone: 806-374-8653 Fax: 806-374-3818 Toll-Free: Address: 1201 S. Taylor St., Amarillo, TX, 79101 Internet Address: www.c-car.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $ 1997 Sales: $413,600 1996 Sales: $283,900 1995 Sales: $212,900

Stock Ticker:

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $ 1997 Profits: $6,700 1996 Profits: $4,500 1995 Profits: $2,100

Employees:

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $250,000 Second Exec. Salary: $225,000

Bonus: $124,144 Bonus: $

Acquires market share in single cities where its dealers are the only ones offering specific lines of vehicles.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

222

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

CROWN BOOKS CORP Industry Group Code: 4512 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 4

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Crown Books Super Crown Books Superstores Super Crown Books (non-superstore format)

2,000-6,000 15,000 6,000-35,000

Profits: 4

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

In-line In-line In-line

48 79 52

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Book Stores, Retail Books Newspapers Magazines Books on tape Videos Computer software Reference materials

Crown Books Corporation operates retail discount bookstores in the United States. These stores offer popular hardback and paperback books, newspapers, magazines, books on tape, videos, reference materials and other items and accessories. Crown Books characterizes its stores as Classic Crown Books stores and Super Crown Books stores. The new prototype Super Crown Books is targeted to occupy 15,000 square feet, although the company recognizes that opportunities exist in smaller-size locations. Dart Group Corporation owns 52.3% of the company's stock. In addition, Dart recently entered into an agreement and plan of merger with Richfood Holdings, Inc., pursuant to which Dart has agreed to become a wholly owned subsidiary of Richfood.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Crown Books West Corporation Crown Books East Corporation Crown Books National Corporation Crown DHC Corporation Super Crown Books Corporation

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Steve Stevens, CEO Steve Stevens, Pres. Donald J. Pilch, VP/CFO Anne Levinton, Asst. VP-Human Resources Keith W. Hammer, Sr. VP/CIO John R. Sutton, VP-Merch. Anne Hancock, VP-Real Estate

Phone: 301-226-1200 Fax: 301-731-1340 Toll-Free: Address: 3300 75th Ave., Landover, MD, 20785 Internet Address: www.crownbooks.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $297,795 1997 Sales: $288,744 1996 Sales: $286,411 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: CRWN

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-48,650 1997 Profits: $- 860 1996 Profits: $3,704 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 3,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $288,900 Second Exec. Salary: $162,800

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Low-price positioning/Superstore format.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 3 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: The Richards Group, Inc., Dallas, TX

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

223

CROWN GROUP INC Industry Group Code: 4411 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 10

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 7

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Direct marketing only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Used automobile dealerships

Crown Group, Inc. is a publicly traded buy-out firm which presently owns shares of Paaco Automotive Group, Inc., Precision IBC, Inc., Concorde Acceptance Corporation, Casino Magic Neuquen S.A. and Home Stay Lodge I, Ltd. From June 1993, with the acquisition of St. Charles Gaming Company, Inc., the company's primary business focus was that of owning, operating and developing casino gaming properties. In November 1996, the company decided to expand its business interests beyond casino gaming and began pursuing business opportunities in other fields. Paaco recently entered the Houston market with the opening of its first used car dealership in that city. The company has completed a purchase of America's Car-Mart, Inc. Car-Mart is one of the largest buy-here-pay here used car dealerships in the United States.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Paaco Automotive Group, Inc. Premium Auto Acceptance Corporation Precision IBC, Inc. Concorde Acceptance Corporation Casino Magic Neuquen S. A. Home Stay Lodge I, Ltd. St. Charles Gaming Company, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Edward R. McMurphy, CEO Edward R. McMurphy, Pres. Mark D. Slusser, CFO/VP-Finance

Phone: 972-717-3423 Fax: 972-719-4466 Toll-Free: Address: 4040 N. MacArthur Blvd., Suite 100, Irving, TX, 75038 Internet Address: www.thecrowngroup.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $21,215 1997 Sales: $2,030 1996 Sales: $2,293 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: CNGR

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $ 348 1997 Profits: $8,860 1996 Profits: $12,299 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

275

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $300,000 Second Exec. Salary: $225,000

Bonus: $150,000 Bonus: $75,000

Owns one of the largest buy-here-pay-here used car dealerships in the U.S.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

224

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

CSK AUTO INC Industry Group Code: 4413 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 3

Profits: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Checker Auto Parts Schuck's Auto Supply Kragen Auto Parts

6,900 6,900 6,900

avg $180 per sq. ft. (for all stores combined)

Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line

268 148 391

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Auto Parts, Retail Auto accessories

CSK Auto, Inc. is the largest retailer of automotive parts and accessories in the western U.S. and one of the largest in the nation. The company operates 807 stores under three trade names: Checker Auto Parts, Schuck's Auto Supply and Kragen Auto Parts. The company is a consumer-oriented specialty retailer primarily servicing the do-it-yourself customer, with a significant and increasing emphasis on the commercial customer. The company recently acquired 82 stores from Trak Auto Corporation, which were converted to the Kragen name and store format. The Trak West acquisition provides the company with a greater presence in the Los Angeles market without adding additional retail square footage to the market.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Checker Auto Parts Schuck's Auto Supply Kragen Auto Parts Trak West

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Maynard Jenkins, CEO James Bazlen, Pres./COO Don Watson, Sr. VP/CFO Robert Short, Sr. VP-Commercial Sales and Mktg. Henry Torres, Sr. VP-Info. Systems Martin Fraser, Sr. VP-Merch. and Dist. Dale Ward, Sr. VP-Store Oper. Don Watson, Treas. Lon Novatt, Sr. VP-Real Estate

Phone: 602-265-9200 Fax: 602-234-0867 Toll-Free: Address: 645 E. Missouri Ave., Phoenix, AZ, 85012 Internet Address: www.checkerauto.com; www.schucks.com; www.kragen.com; www.cskauto.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $1,004,385 1997 Sales: $845,815 1996 Sales: $793,092 1995 Sales: $718,352

Stock Ticker: PRIVATE

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $73,961 1997 Profits: $45,490 1996 Profits: $-3,364 1995 Profits: $- 162

Employees: 10,550

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $525,000 Second Exec. Salary: $400,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $80,000

Largest retailer of automotive parts and accessories in the western U.S.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

225

CUMBERLAND FARMS INC Industry Group Code: 44512 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 4

Profits:

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Cumberland Farms

2,400

$1,434,782 per store/$597 per sq. ft.

Free-standing/In-line

815

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Convenience Stores, Retail Gas stations Manufactures milk and bakery products Petroleum storage

Cumberland Farms, Inc. operates, or leases to third parties, convenience stores and/or gas stations throughout New England, the Mid-Atlantic states and Florida. The company operates 788 convenience stores, of which 600 sell gas, and 33 gas stations. It also leases 260 gas stations to independent dealers who also have arrangements to purchase petrolem products and sublicense the Gulf trade name from the company. As part of its conveneince store operations, the firm conducts dairy, bakery and beverage operations and owns and operates grocery and warehouse distribution centers. While the beverage operations are exclusively for the company's convenience stores, approximately 71% of the total fluid production of the dairy operations and approximately 42% of the manufactured bakery products are sold to unaffiliated third parties. Cumberland also owns a 66 2/3% limited partnership interest in Gulf Oil Limited Partnership. In addition, the company leases retail and restaurant space in buildings in which certain of the convenience stores are run by approximately 400 independent operators.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Cumberland Farms Newport Cloverfield Dairy Gulf Division Gulf Oil Limited Partnership

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Lily H. Bentas, Pres./CEO Harry J. Brenner, Exec. VP/COO Arthur G. Koumantzelis, Sr. VP/CFO Robert J. Handforth, Robert J. Handforth Daniel E. Phaneuf, Sr. VP-Retail Oper. Francis G. Locklin, Sr. VP-Real Estate

Phone: 781-828-4900 Fax: 781-828-5246 Toll-Free: Address: 777 Dedham Street, Canton, MA, 02021 Internet Address: www.cumberlandfarms.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $1,387,200 1997 Sales: $ 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: PRIVATE

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $ 1997 Profits: $ 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 7,100

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $488,000 Second Exec. Salary: $285,000

Bonus: $150,000 Bonus: $93,750

Has a 66 2/3% limited partnership interest in Gulf Oil Limited Partnership which allows it to use and license the various Gulf trademarks and trade names in most of the northeastern U.S.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

226

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

CVS CORPORATION Industry Group Code: 44611 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Profits: 3

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

CVS Drugstores Revco Arbor Drugs

9,000 9,000 9,000

avg. $412 per sq. ft. (for all stores)

Free Standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line

All stores amount to 4,100

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Drug Stores, Retail Managed-care drug programs

CVS Corporation is a leader in the United States in the chain drugstore industry. The company operates 4,100 drug stores in 24 states, primarily in the Eastern half of the country. In addition to pharmaceutical services, the company’s drug stores also offer greeting cards, film and photo-finishing services, beauty and cosmetics, seasonal merchandise and convenience foods. CVS Corporation’s pharmacy business makes up the majority of sales; in its most recent year, the company filled over 225 million prescriptions, making it the largest drugstore chain in terms of prescriptions filled and pharmacy sales. The company's CVS Drugstore chain plans to open 400 stores in 1999. Recently, CVS merged with two large drug store chains which have helped it achieve its leading position in the pharmacy market. The mergers with Revco D.S., Inc. and Arbor Drugs brought the company into new markets and will significantly increase the company’s ability to compete with Rite Aid, Wal-Mart and Walgreens. CVS Corporation has recently announced plans to begin construction of a third headquarters building in Woonsocket, Rhode Island, adjacent to the company’s two existing buildings.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Revco Arbor Drugs

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Stanley P. Goldstein, CEO Thomas M. Ryan, Pres. Charles C. Conaway, CFO/Exec. VP Daniel C. Nelson, Exec. VP-Mktg. Thomas M. Ryan, COO/Pres./CEO-CVS Pharmacy, Inc.

Phone: 401-765-1500 Fax: 401-762-2137 Toll-Free: Address: One CVS Dr., Woonsocket, RI, 02895 Internet Address: www.cvs.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $15,273,600 1997 Sales: $13,749,600 1996 Sales: $11,831,600 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: CVS

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $396,400 1997 Profits: $76,900 1996 Profits: $208,200 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 97,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $1,050,000 Second Exec. Salary: $700,000

Bonus: $1,524,960 Bonus: $1,052,950

Recent acquisitions have given CVS a competitive edge.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

227

CYBER SHOP INTERNATIONAL INC Industry Group Code: 4541 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 15

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 6

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

On-line only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

On-line retailer

CyberShop International, Inc., an online retailer, offers over 40,000 different products to consumers. Included in these items are over 500 brands of electronics, beauty and fashion accessories, bedding and bath items, furniture, appliances, toys, sports and fitness items, housewares and gourmet foods. Cyber shop is currently an anchor tenant in the department store area of America Online’s shopping channel. The company additionally offers corporate gift services and gift certificates through its website. A frequent-buyer program also operates within cybershop.com; points are awarded to customers that can then be redeemed during future purchases.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: cybershop.com electronics.net

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Jeffrey S. Tauber, CEO/Pres. Jeffrey Liest, COO Jeffery Liest, CFO Tomas Montgomery, VP-Oper. Jill Markus, VP-Business Dev. Jill Markus, VP-Store Dev. Richard D.Gilbert, Dir.-Strategic Planning

Phone: 201-234-5000 Fax: 201-234-5099 Toll-Free: Address: 116 Newark Ave., Jersey City, NJ, 07302 Internet Address: www.cybershop.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $4,814 1997 Sales: $1,495 1996 Sales: $ 513 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: CYSP

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-7,888 1997 Profits: $-1,806 1996 Profits: $- 650 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

42

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $190,000 Second Exec. Salary: $129,888

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Over 40,000 products to choose from.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

228

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

CYBERIAN OUTPOST INC Industry Group Code: 4541 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 13

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 5

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

On-line only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Computers and Software Retailing E-commerce Internet superstore

A leader in global e-commerce since 1995, Cyberian Outpost, Inc. operates an Internet-only superstore for computer products 24-hours a day, seven days a week. Outpost.com provides consumer and small office purchasers of computer products a superior selection, quick and easy search capabilities and product information on over 140,000 hardware, software and peripheral products. The company recently announced an exclusive strategic partnership with the leading Pan-Nordic on-line service. Cyberian Outpost also acquired over 160,000 customers with its acquisition of the Internet Shopping Network’s Computer Superstore customer base. The company and three other well-known Internet brands formed a groundbreaking network to connect the Internet’s leading specialty retailers, to be named ShopperConnection. The company is also featured on Amazon.com’s Shop the Web shopping referral service.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Internet Shopping Network's Computer Superstore ShopperConnection Outpost.com

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Darryl Peck, CEO Darryl Peck, Pres. Katherine N. Vick, Exec. VP/CFO Louise R. Cooper, VP-Worldwide Mktg. Bruce C. Schellinkhout, VP-Oper.

Phone: 860-927-2050 Fax: 860-927-8372 Toll-Free: Address: P.O. Box 636, Kent, CT, 06757 Internet Address: www.outpost.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $85,203 1998 Sales: $22,681 1997 Sales: $10,790 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: COOL

1999 Profits: $-25,220 1998 Profits: $-7,092 1997 Profits: $-1,338 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

156

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $ Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Offers wide variety of items/Connected with other Internet retailers.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: TBS Media Management, New York, NY; Bates Advertising USA, Inc., New York, NY

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

229

D H MARKETING & CONSULTING Industry Group Code: 4400 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 19

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 18

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Direct marketing only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Chemical Burn Cleansing Solutions Purchase and sale of collectibles Network marketing Consultation to small companies

D.H. Marketing & Consulting is engaged in the marketing and distribution of chemical burn cleansing solutions, the purchase and sale of collectibles, network marketing and consultation to small companies. During the nine-month fiscal period ending September 1998, the company’s revenues fell 85% to $1.4 million. DHMG’s net loss totaled $3 million, as opposed to an income of $2.1 million. The company’s revenues during this period reflect key restructuring projects that the DHMG is currently undergoing. The revenues additionally reflect lower sales activity related to the company’s Universal subsidiary, as well as increased expenses.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES:

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. David D. Hagen, CEO David D. Hagen, Pres. David D. Hagen, Treas.

Phone: 717-226-8515 Fax: 717-226-3242 Toll-Free: Address: 300 Keystone Street, Hawley, PA, 18428 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $1,734 1997 Sales: $4,959 1996 Sales: $1,767 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: DHMG

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-3,345 1997 Profits: $ 216 1996 Profits: $ 685 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $59,166 Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $20,000 Bonus: $

Markets collectibles.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

230

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

DAIRY MART CONVENIENCE STORES INC Industry Group Code: 44512 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 7

Profits: 7

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Dairy Mart

2,400-3,800

$699,413 per store

Free-standing

541 company-owned/141 franchised

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Convenience Stores, Retail Gasoline

Dairy Mart Convenience Stores, Inc. operates one of the nation’s largest regional convenience store chains. The company operates approximately 627 stores under the Dairy Mart name in seven states located in the Midwest and the Southeast. Approximately 293 stores sell gasoline and 158 are franchised. The company recently sold 156 convenience store and retail gasoline locations to DB Companies, Inc. The company opened seven new stores, all of which offer gasoline through modern facilities that include credit card readers in the dispensers. In addition, the company has signed a master franchise agreement with Habros Convenience Stores N.V. of Aruba-Dutch Antilles. The first Dairy Mart store will be constructed in Oranjestad, Aruba. Dairy Mart will provide technical assistance, the right to use the Dairy Mart name and logo and training in the United States. Also, the company has entered into a long-term supply and branding agreement with Chevron Products Company to sell Chevron-brand gasoline and related products at its convenience stores in Kentucky and southern Indiana. The company has also brought back the popular Lawsons products for a limited time in honor of its 59th anniversary celebration. One store in Ohio is being expanded and remodeled to make room for a coffee bar and a full food service area.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Dairy Mart Habros Convenience Stores N.V.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Robert B. Stein, Jr., CEO Robert B. Stein, Jr., Pres. Gregory G. Landry, Exec. VP/CFO Alice R. Guiney, VP-Human Resources Scott A. Stein, VP-MIS Michael L. Poole, VP-Construction and Planning Susan D. Adams, Treas.

Phone: 330-342-6600 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 300 Executive Parkway West, Hudson, OH, 44236 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $477,047 1998 Sales: $501,359 1997 Sales: $585,746 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: DMC.B

1999 Profits: $ 25 1998 Profits: $-1,468 1997 Profits: $-1,836 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 3,600

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $331,738 Second Exec. Salary: $239,230

Bonus: $80,000 Bonus: $40,000

Over 800 stores/Some stores have branded fast food installations.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: The Wolf Group, Cleveland, OH

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

231

DAMARK INTERNATIONAL INC Industry Group Code: 45411 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 15

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 24

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Mail-order only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Catalog/Direct Marketing Computers/accessories Office products Consumer electronics Sporting goods/fitness products Entertainment services

DAMARK International, Inc. is an integrated relationship marketer providing consumers with a range of tailored products and services branded under DAMARK-owned names and the names of other consumer marketers. DAMARK’s programs, products and services are offered through direct mail and telemarketing channels. The company offers a variety of membership clubs that provide members with discounts on travel, hospitality and entertainment as well as retail, health and fitness and other convenience needs. In addition, brand name, valuepriced merchandise is sold through catalogs in six broad categories: computers, home office, consumer electronics, home décor, home improvements and sports/fitness. Preferred Buyers Club members are among the company’s most loyal customers. Several new membership clubs have also been introduced. The newest membership clubs are the Great Deal Pack and Essentials for Home clubs.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Vacation Passport Preferred Buyers Club Great Deal Pack Club Essentials For Home Club

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Mark A. Cohn, CEO Mark A. Cohn, Pres. Arlyn J. Lomen, Sr. VP-Finance/CFO Michael D. Moroz, Sr. VP-Mktg. Nick A. DeNicola, VP-Human Resources Rodney C. Merry, VP-Info. Systems Arlyn J. Lomen, Sr. VP-Admin.

Phone: 612-531-0066 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 7101 Winnetka Avenue North, Minneapolis, MN, 55428 Internet Address: www.damark.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $484,416 1997 Sales: $594,627 1996 Sales: $513,716 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: DMRK

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-19,615 1997 Profits: $6,305 1996 Profits: $6,068 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,945

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $475,000 Second Exec. Salary: $250,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Members enjoy discounts on all DAMARK purchases, as well as discounts and other benefits from numerous other companies/Damark focuses on providing hi-value electronic items at very good prices.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

232

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

DAYTON HUDSON CORPORATION Industry Group Code: 4521 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 23

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Target Mervyn's Dayton's Hudson's Marshall Field's

105,000-115,000 75,000-90,000 99,000-237,166 123,000-234,000 178,000-254,000

Profits: 19

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

In-line Mall Mall Mall Mall

851 268 19 20 24

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Department Stores, Retail

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Target Mervyn's Dayton's Hudson's Marshall Fields

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Robert J. Ulrich, CEO Douglas A. Scovanner, Sr. VP/CFO JohnE. Pellegrene, Exec. VP-Mktg. Gregg W. Steinhafel, Exec. VP-Merch.

Phone: 612-370-6948 Fax: 612-370-5502 Toll-Free: Address: 777 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN, 55402 Internet Address: www.shop-at.com/ Notes/Other Info:

A general merchandise retailer, Dayton Hudson Corporation operates several department stores, including Target, Mervyn’s, Dayton’s, Hudson’s and Marshall Field’s. Target, an upscale discount chain located in 39 states, contribute 74 percent of the company’s revenues. Target has successfully repositioned itself as the leading upscale discount store. While this may sound like an oxymoron, the strategy is working extremely well. After all, saving money is very trendy. Target combines moneysaving values with equally trendy designer merchandise-much of it exclusive to Target. At the same time, it features bright, well-designed, colorful stores that are a joy for shoppers of all types. The average Target customer is about 40 years of age and the household income of Target's customers is approximately $47,000 with an average shopping ticket of $40.00. Mervyn’s, a middlemarket promotional department store located in 14 states in the West, South and Midwest, contributes 15 percent of revenues. Mervyn’s brand strategy centers around its focus to be the premier promotional, middle market department store with something for everyone. DSD, a traditional department store located in nine states in the upper Midwest, contributes 11 percent of revenues. Target’s proprietary credit card, the Target Guest Card, also supports Target’s brand identity and differentiates Target from competitors by offering guests a service and convenience that is generally reserved for department store shoppers. The card creates greater guest loyalty and is a key contributor to incremental sales and profits. Dayton Hudson has a long tradition of giving back to the communities where it operates through grantmaking, volunteerism and support of special community programs. The company’s three divisions and the Dayton Hudson Foundation gave more than $46 million to arts, social action and education groups across the company. In addition, Target provided more than $2.6 million in scholarships for high school seniors and teachers.

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $30,951 1998 Sales: $27,757 1997 Sales: $25,371 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: DH

1999 Profits: $ 962 1998 Profits: $ 802 1997 Profits: $ 474 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 254,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE: OTHER THOUGHTS:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $1,027,874 Second Exec. Salary: $651,085

Bonus: $2,314,650 Bonus: $731,896

Fourth largest general merchandise retailer in the U.S.

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes)

Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 9 West: Southwest: Midwest: Southeast: Northeast: y y y y y Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

233

DEB SHOPS INC Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 33

Profits: 26

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

DEB Tops 'N Bottoms Atlantic Book Shops Atlantic Book Warehouse DEB Plus CSO

6,000 2,300-3,400 1,000-4,600 12,000-26,000 4,500-11,000

avg. $783,000 per store (for all stores)

Mall/In-line Mall(inside some DEB stores) Resort Free-standing

254 9 12 6 6 4

$458,000 per store $2,015,000 per store

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel-Women's, Retail Books Men's apparel

Deb Shops, Inc. operates 259 women’s specialty apparel retail stores offering moderately priced, fashionable, coordinated women’s sportswear, dresses, coats, lingerie, accessories and shoes for junior and plus sizes. DEB merchandise consists of clothing and accessories appealing primarily to junior and plus sized female consumers between the ages of 13 and 18. In addition to the company’s DEB stores, the company operates DEB plus size stores, CSO outlet stores and plus sized departments in many of the DEB stores. Deb Shops, Inc. also sells moderately-priced men’s and women’s apparel in its Tops’N Bottoms chain of stores; several DEB stores also contain Tops’ N Bottoms departments. In addition to its main clothing business, the company is also the operator of a chain of limited selection book stores which are only open seasonally in New Jersey and Delaware resort towns and operate under the name Atlantic Book Shops. The company has experienced financial difficulties resulting from underperforming stores and currently has plans to close stores that cannot become profitable or maintain their profitability.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: DEB Tops 'N Bottoms Atlantic Book Shops Atlantic Book Warehouse JOY DEB PLUS CSO

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Marvin Rounick, CEO Marvin Rounick, Pres. Lewis Lyons, CFO/VP-Finance Allan Laufgraben, Sr. VP-Merch. Warren Weiner, Treas.

Phone: 215-676-6000 Fax: 215-698-7151 Toll-Free: Address: 9401 Blue Grass Road, Philadelphia, PA, 19114 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $234,724 1998 Sales: $205,066 1997 Sales: $187,493 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: DEBS

1999 Profits: $15,496 1998 Profits: $6,637 1997 Profits: $-3,855 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,050

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $405,512 Second Exec. Salary: $297,816

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Prices merchandise aggressively in order to maintain fresh inventories and increase volume.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

234

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

DELIA'S INC Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 43

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

TSI Soccer Screeem Jean Country delia*s Outlet

3,300 4100 3,300 3,300

Profits: 31

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

In-line Mall Mall Free-standing, In-line

13 15 11 84

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel Stores, Retail Specialty soccer accessories Internet-based retailing

dELIA*s, Inc. is a leading direct marketer of casual apparel and related accessories to girls and young women, primarily between the ages of 10 and 24, and through its TSI Soccer catalog, of soccer merchandise to Generation Y boys and girls. The company’s catalog, which features a broad assortment of merchandise, includes recognized and emerging brands complemented by dELIA*s own brands. The company’s recent business endeavors include three acquisitions. The retail stores Screeem! and Jean Country were purchased from American Retail Enterprises, L.P. The 26 stores are located in shopping malls in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut and Massachusetts. Fulcrum Direct, Inc., a privately-held catalog company with trademarks and mailing lists for Zöe, Storybook Heirlooms, Playclothes, After the Stork and Just for Kids catalog titles, was purchased. Also, gURL Interactive, Inc. was acquired, which gives dELIA*s a strong presence on the Internet and access to a membership-based on-line community. The company launched a series of Internet initiatives designed to expand its e-commerce and on-line presence. These endeavors include ContentsOnline.com, a web-site corresponding to dELIA*s home furnishings catalog, and Droog.com, the counterpart to the recently launched Droog catalog, which targets teenage boys. dELIA*s recently entered into a joint venture with the Epic Records Group, a division of Sony Music Entertainment Inc., to ship promotional web-linked interactive CDs to the company’s catalog customers.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: TSI Soccer catalog Screeem! Jean Country ContentsOnline.com Fulcrum Direct, Inc. gURLNet.com ChickClick.com Scholastic Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Stephen I. Kahn, CEO/Pres. Christopher C. Edgar, Exec. VP/COO Evan Guillemin, CFO Evan Guillemin, Treas.

Phone: 212-807-9060 Fax: 212-807-9069 Toll-Free: Address: 435 Hudson Street, New York, NY, 10014 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $158,364 1998 Sales: $113,049 1997 Sales: $54,224 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: DLIA

1999 Profits: $5,842 1998 Profits: $4,426 1997 Profits: $4,193 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,700

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $103,846 Second Exec. Salary: $100,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Offers products that are recognized by its target market of teen girls.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

235

DELL COMPUTER CORPORATION Industry Group Code: 3341A Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 3

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 2

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Catalog/On-line

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Computer and Software Sales, Direct On-line sales Peripherals Support programs Catalog and mail-order sales

Dell Computer Corporation designs, develops, manufactures, markets, services and supports a broad range of personal computers, including desktops, notebooks and servers compatible with industry standards under the Dell brand name. This is one of the most successful and exciting direct-selling firms in the world today. Dell creates a high profit margin by building its computers on an as-ordered basis, having them ready to ship within 48 hours of receipt of the order. (Other firm's computers may sit on store shelves an average of 60 days before being sold.) The company has a facility in Penang, Malaysia, which houses the Asia Pacific Customer Center. In addition, the company has a facility in Limerick, Ireland. A new facility was recently announced to be built in Memphis, TN. Dell's customers range from major accounts to small businesses and individuals. Major corporate customers are offered the ability to have their own pages on Dell's Web site, where those corporations can enter orders for specific computers at corporate rates. Those seeking employment with the company should look at the company's web page for career opportunities. Sales reps are allocated regions, where they live, throughout the nation. These reps call on corporate and government accounts. Dell is well known for its meteroric growth is sales and in the value of the company's stock. Founder Michael Dell is now the richest person in Texas, and the large number of wealthy employees in the Austin, Texas area are sometimes referred to as Dellionaires. Dell hires large numbers of people to work in telephone support and sales. The firm recently built a major corporate campus at Round Rock, north of Austin, Texas.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Dell Latitude Dell Latitude XP Dell OptiPlex Dell Dimension XPS Dell PowerEdge

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Michael Dell, CEO Thomas J. Meredith, Sr. VP/CFO Julie A. Sackett, VP-Human Resources Jerome N. Gregoire, VP/CIO Richard Owen, VP-Dell Online

Phone: 512-338-4400 Fax: 512-728-3330 Toll-Free: 800-288-5627 Address: One Dell Way, Round Rock, TX, 78682 Internet Address: www.dell.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $18,243,000 1998 Sales: $12,327,000 1997 Sales: $7,759,000 1996 Sales: $5,296,000 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: DELL

1999 Profits: $1,460,000 1998 Profits: $944,000 1997 Profits: $518,000 1996 Profits: $272,000 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 24,400

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $688,461 Second Exec. Salary: $544,276

Bonus: $1,304,910 Bonus: $1,031,622

The number one computer retailer on the Internet.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Goldberg Moser O'Neill, San Francisco, CA; Grey Advertising Inc., New York, NY; J. Walter Thompson U.S.A., Inc., Chicago, IL

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

236

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

DESIGNS INC Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 30

Profits: 48

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Buffalo Jeans Factory Stores Docker's Outlet by Designs Designs/BTC Boston Traders Levi's Outlets (joint venture)

12,000 12,000 6,100 2,000-6,500 8,000-19,700

$187 per sq. ft. (for all stores)

Mall In-line Mall In-line In-line

5 95 9 4 9

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel Stores, Retail Denim products Outlet stores

Designs, Inc. is a specialty retailer selling quality branded apparel and accessories. The company markets a broad selection of Levi Strauss & Co. brand, Dockers brand and other brands predominantly through outlet stores. Designs, Inc. makes extensive use of various brand names, trademarks, trade names and logos in its advertising, signs and store displays and relies heavily on the broad recognition of these brand names to generate sales. The company has fallen on hard times since its 1995 venture into private label brands and the development of the Boston Trading Co. The company is currently liquidating its remaining stock of private label merchandise and intends to use the 11 existing stores as test stores for new merchandising formats. Due to the failure of the private label venture, the major shareholders of Designs, Inc. are seeking to replace most of the board of directors, which has countered by considering a sale of the company.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Designs Levi's Outlet by Designs Original Levi's Stores Boston Traders Levi's Outlets

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Joel H. Reichman, CEO Joel H. Reichman, Pres. Carolyn R. Faulkner, CFO Carolyn R. Faulkner, Treas.

Phone: 781-444-7222 Fax: 781-277-3516 Toll-Free: Address: 66 B Street, Needham, MA, 02194 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $201,634 1998 Sales: $265,726 1997 Sales: $289,593 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: DESI

1999 Profits: $-18,541 1998 Profits: $-29,063 1997 Profits: $6,264 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

600

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $375,000 Second Exec. Salary: $290,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Offers five distinctive store formats to cater to different needs.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 4 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

237

DIGITAL RIVER INC Industry Group Code: 52252A Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 5

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 5

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

support services

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Support services for retail sales over the Internet Processing and filling orders

Digital River, Inc. has developed a technology pattern that has allowed it to become a leading provider of comprehensive electronic commerce outsourcing solutions to software publishers and on-line retailers. The company utilizes ESD, or Electronic Software Delivery, to provide these services to its customers, which include Lotus Development Corporation, Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., CompUSA, Inc., Micro Warehouse, Inc., Kmart Corporation and many others. The company had contracts with over 1,600 software product clients and 1,170 on-line retailer clients as of March, 1999. Digital River achieves a unique edge by providing an outsourcing solution that allows its clients to promote their own brands while leveraging the company’s technological and infrastructural investments. Though the company uses ESD, its primary technology is its proprietary commerce network server, or CNS, technology. This incorporates custom software applications that enable ESD, Web store authorizing, fraud prevention, export control, merchandising programs and on-line registration. The majority of the company’s sales come through software publisher clients.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: www.digitalriver.com

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Joel A. Ronning, CEO Perry W. Steiner, Pres. Robert E. Strawman, CFO Terrence M. Strom, VP-Mktg. Kelly J. Wical, Chief Tech. Officer Randy J. Womack, CIO Draper M. Jaffray, VP-Business Dev. Robert E. Strawman, Treas.

Phone: 612-253-1234 Fax: 612-253-8497 Toll-Free: Address: 9625 W. 76th Street, Suite 150, Eden Prairie, MN, 55344 Internet Address: www.digitalriver.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $20,911 1997 Sales: $2,472 1996 Sales: $ 111 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: DRIV

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-13,798 1997 Profits: $-3,485 1996 Profits: $- 689 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

148

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $171,875 Second Exec. Salary: $63,718

Bonus: $225,000 Bonus: $100,000

Operates in the booming e-retail industry.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

238

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

DILLARD'S INC Industry Group Code: 4521 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 8

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Dillard's

Profits: 7

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

$20,000,000

Mall/Free-standing

335

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Department Stores, Retail

Dillard’s Inc. operates retail department stores located primarily in the southwestern, southeastern and midwestern United States. Dillard’s pioneered a unique mall marketing concept called the Dillard’s double-header. By establishing dual anchor stores inside key shopping centers, the company is able to offer inventory selections while creating retail dominance within an individual mall. Essentially, one Dillard’s store is separated into two locations, each carrying non-competing merchandise. The company also set a course for prudent, determined growth by initiating a pattern of new store construction, acquisitions and expansion. It secured a foothold in the West with the opening of a new store in Stockton, California. In addition, a presence was established in Virginia by acquiring Proffitt’s stores and in Wyoming with a store in Cheyenne. Dillard’s also strengthened its position in several existing markets. In Houston, Texas, the company acquired three Macy’s stores and now operates 11 stores in the area. The firm opened seven Mervyn’s stores acquired from Dayton Hudson Corporation in Florida. Dillard’s recently built a new 440,000 square foot distribution facility located in Salisbury, North Carolina. This new center will feature advanced distribution technology and will allow the company to provide a faster and more accurate flow of merchandise to customers.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES:

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. William Dillard II, CEO Alex Dillard, Pres./COO James I. Freeman, Sr. VP/CFO

Phone: 501-376-5200 Fax: 501-376-5917 Toll-Free: Address: P.O. Box 486, Little Rock, AR, 72203 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $8,011,724 1998 Sales: $6,816,909 1997 Sales: $6,412,060 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: DDS

1999 Profits: $135,259 1998 Profits: $258,325 1997 Profits: $238,621 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 54,921

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $650,000 Second Exec. Salary: $560,000

Bonus: $650,000 Bonus: $650,000

Widely-admired for its use of advanced MIS technology to manage, project and order inventory/Moderate prices with a focus on middlemarket consumers.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Omega Studios, Irving, TX; R & J Creative, Dallas, TX; Mollie McKnoll, Dallas, TX; Frank J. Wills Agency, Little Rock, AR

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

239

DIPLOMAT DIRECT MARKETING Industry Group Code: 45411 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 24

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 19

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Catalog/On-line only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel-Children's

Diplomat Direct Marketing makes infants’ apparel and accessories, which include diapers, nursery accessories and bedding and travel products, under its Ecology Kids brand name. It sells these items to mass merchandisers and other retailers such as Toys R Us, Wal-Mart, Walgreens, and Target. The company’s subsidiaries, Brownstone and Lew Magram, sell brand-name and private-label clothing and accessories through eponymous mail-order catalogs and Web sites. The company believes that the retail catalog sales of women’s apparel will increase as more customers will demand the convenience and time savings afforded by catalog and e-commerce shopping. Recent news for Diplomat Direct Marketing includes an agreement with Warner Brothers to market a line of products using the Baby Looney Toons characters.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Lew Magram Brownstone Ecology Kids

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Jonathan Rosenberg, Pres./CEO Warren H. Golden, Exec. VP/COO Robert Kramer, VP-Mktg. Stephanie Sobel, Sr. VP-Merch. Jeffrey Ayes, VP-Oper. and Admin. Irwin Oringer, Chief Acc. Officer Sherry Dolin-Shikora, VP-Creative Services

Phone: 914-786-5552 Fax: 914-786-8727 Toll-Free: Address: 25 Kay Fries Dr., Stony Point, NY, 10980 Internet Address: www.diplomatdirect.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $74,586 1997 Sales: $17,468 1996 Sales: $7,449 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: DIPL

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-1,063 1997 Profits: $1,107 1996 Profits: $-7,225 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

407

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $245,387 Second Exec. Salary: $225,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Marketing products featuring Baby Looney Tunes.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

240

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

DISCOUNT AUTO PARTS INC Industry Group Code: 4413 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 6

Profits: 5

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Discount Auto Parts

10,000 and 4,000 formats

$990,024

Free-standing

518

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Auto Parts, Retail

Discount Auto Parts, Inc. is one of the Southeast’s leading specialty retailers of automotive replacement parts, maintenance items and accessories for the do-it-yourself consumer. The company currently operates a chain of 518 Discount Auto Parts stores. The company recently began the rollout of a commercial delivery program. Under this program, commercial customers can establish commercial accounts with the company and order automotive parts from the company, with such parts being delivered from, or available for pick up at, nearby Discount Auto Parts stores. The program is in operation at 45 Discount Auto Parts stores. Discount Auto Parts has opened its first five stores in Louisiana. The company has also recently acquired the Rose Auto Parts chain through an asset purchase from Eastern Automotive Warehouse, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of National Auto Parts Warehouse, Inc. The acquisition includes 39 retail store locations, primarily located in southeast Florida, and a warehouse facility in Miami. The acquisition of the Rose Auto Parts stores resulted in Discount Auto Parts’ surpassing the 500 stores mark.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Discount Auto Parts Rose Auto Parts Eastern Automotive Warehouse, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Peter J. Fontaine, CEO William C. Perkins, Pres./COO C. Michael Moore, CFO Steven K. Joiner, VP-Mktg. Michael D. Harrah, VP-Info. Systems Warren Shatzer, Exec. VP-Merch. Steven C. Bair, VP-Oper.

Phone: 941-687-9226 Fax: 941-284-2063 Toll-Free: Address: 4900 Frontage Road South, Lakeland, FL, 33815 Internet Address: www.discountautoparts.net Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $447,491 1997 Sales: $405,186 1996 Sales: $307,476 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: DAP

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $27,180 1997 Profits: $12,741 1996 Profits: $22,463 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 3,328

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $192,400 Second Exec. Salary: $186,150

Bonus: $203,786 Bonus: $203,786

Carries an extensive line of replacement parts for domestic and imported cars.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

241

DOLLAR GENERAL CORPORATION Industry Group Code: 45291 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 5

Profits: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Dollar General

6,300

$873,606 per store/$138 sq. ft.

In-line/Free-standing

3,687

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Discount Stores, Retail

Dollar General Corporation provides value-priced merchandise to low, middle and fixed-income families. The company sells consumable basic merchandise such as health and beauty aids, packaged foods, cleaning supplies, housewares, stationary, seasonal goods, nonfashion apparel and cosmetics through a chain of 3,500 small company-owned stores throughout 23 Midwestern and Southeastern states. Recently, the company opened 397 stores, the largest number of single-year new store openings in the company’s history. Dollar General Corporation’s merchandise is usually sold for $1 or less, with the most expensive items generally priced at approximately $35. The company consistently attracts customers with its assortment of low-priced, high-volume basic household items, many of which are private labels. Dollar General Corporation additionally maintains strict overhead cost controls and seeks to locate stores in neighborhoods where store rental and operating costs are low. Dollar General recently announced plans to build a fourth distribution center located in South Boston, Virginia. Dollar General employees receive cash bonuses based on the company's success and are empowered to make decisions at their own stores. The stores offer information to customers concerning where to go to learn to read and to earn their GEDs.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Dollar General Stores

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Cal Turner, Jr., CEO Leigh Stelmach, Exec. VP-Oper. Brian M. Burr, VP/CFO Susan Milana, VP-Human Resources & Employee Support Services Holger Jensen, VP-Info. Services Randy Sanderson, VP/Controller Tom Hartshorn, VP-Merch. Oper. Bob Carpenter, Chief Admin. Officer Mike Ennis, Sr. VP-Company Growth and Dev. Troy Fellers, VP-Dist.

Phone: 615-783-2000 Fax: 615-386-9937 Toll-Free: Address: 104 Woodmont Blvd., Suite 500, Nashville, TN, 37205 Internet Address: www.dollargeneral.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $3,220,989 1998 Sales: $2,627,325 1997 Sales: $2,134,398 1996 Sales: $1,764,188 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: DG

1999 Profits: $182,033 1998 Profits: $144,628 1997 Profits: $115,100 1996 Profits: $87,818 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 29,820

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $599,129 Second Exec. Salary: $386,630

Bonus: $600,000 Bonus: $

Offers a number of products for low to middle to fixed-income customers/Everyday low prices.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

242

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

DOLLAR TREE STORES INC Industry Group Code: 45291 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 9

Profits: 5

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Dollar Tree 98 Cent Clearance Center

3,000-3,500 10,000-14,000

$671,000 per store/$235 per sq. ft. (all stores)

In-line/Malls In-line /Mall

1,100 66

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Discount Stores, Retail

Dollar Tree Stores, Inc. is the leading operator of discount variety stores offering merchandise at the $1.00 price point. The company’s stores offer a wide assortment of quality everyday general merchandise in many traditional variety store categories, including housewares, seasonal goods, food, toys, health and beauty aids, gifts, party goods, stationery, books, hardware and other consumer items. Dollar Tree currently operates 1,156 stores in 31 states in the southeastern, midwestern, mid-Atlantic, south central and northeastern United States. The company, through its Dollar Tree Stores chain, plans to open 220 new stores in 1999. Dollar Tree recently built a new Store Support Center in Chesapeake to increase its serving capacity. The company also recently purchased approximately 43 acres of land in Mississippi for the purpose of building a new distribution center to replace the existing facility located in Memphis. The new facility will be modeled after the recently completed Chesapeake distribution center. In addition, the company signed a definitive merger agreement with Sacramento, California based Step Ahead Investments, Inc., which operates 62 stores under the name 98 Cents Clearance Centers. The stores offer variety merchandise at a fixed price of 98 cents or less and are located in northern and central California and northwestern Nevada. Dollar Tree believes its compensation and benefit programs are a key element in attracting and retaining qualified store, field and management personnel. The company offers bonus plans to several groups of employees, including Regional Manager, Regional Field Merchandisers, District Managers, Store Managers and Associate Store Managers.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Dollar Tree Management, Inc. One Price...One Dollar Only $1.00 Dollar Bill$ Dollar Tree Distribution, Inc. Step Ahead Investments, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Macon F. Brock, Jr., CEO Macon F. Brock, Jr., Pres. H. Ray Compton, Exec. VP/CFO Thomas J. Bowyer, Sr. VP-Sales Charles S. Murray, VP-Human Resources Darcel L. Stephan, VP-Info. Systems Thomas J. Bowyer, Sr. VP-Oper.

Phone: 757-321-5000 Fax: 757-857-6848 Toll-Free: Address: P.O. Box 2500, Norfolk, VA, 23501-2500 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $918,807 1997 Sales: $723,202 1996 Sales: $558,841 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: DLTR

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $68,890 1997 Profits: $49,928 1996 Profits: $35,348 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 3,800

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $340,696 Second Exec. Salary: $227,132

Bonus: $125,000 Bonus: $100,000

Strong buying power.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

243

DRESS BARN INC (THE) Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 15

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Dress Barn Dress Barn Woman Dress Barn (combo stores)

4,500 4,000 9,000

Profits: 11

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

In-line In-line In-line/Outlet mall

341 68 260

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel-Women's, Retail

The Dress Barn, Inc. operates a national chain of valuepriced specialty stores offering in-season, moderate to better quality career apparel and accessories to the working woman. In addition, the company’s stores carry a broad assortment of casual wear. Dress Barn also offers its own line of private brands under the Dress Barn, Westport, Princeton Club and Atrium names; the company’s private brands accounted for over 65% of sales in the company’s most recent fiscal year. The company has three store formats, including the Dress Barn and Westport stores that carry Junior and Misses sizes, the Dress Barn Woman stores that feature larger sizes and the combination stores which carry both. In recent years, Dress Barn has seen a conversion to the combination format away from the Dress Barn and Dress Barn Woman stores. By the end of the next fiscal year, Dress Barn intends to open approximately 60 additional combination stores.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Dress Barn Dress Barn Woman DB/DBW Westport Ltd. Westport Woman

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Elliot S. Jaffe, CEO Burt Steinberg, COO/Pres. Armand Correia, CFO Eric Hawn, Sr. VP-Store Oper.

Phone: 914-369-4500 Fax: 914-369-4829 Toll-Free: Address: 30 Dunnigan Drive, Suffern, NY, 10901 Internet Address: www.dress-barn.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $598,175 1997 Sales: $554,843 1996 Sales: $515,522 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: DBRN

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $40,227 1997 Profits: $31,767 1996 Profits: $18,909 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 3,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $521,000 Second Exec. Salary: $350,000

Bonus: $604,200 Bonus: $170,000

Offers quality merchandise at a substantial discount from department store prices.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 9 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: KD&E, New York, NY

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

244

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

DRUG EMPORIUM INC Industry Group Code: 44611 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 6

Profits: 5

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Drug Emporium

27,000

$4,349,445 per store/$161 per sq. ft.

In-line

141 company-owned/32 franchised (for all stores)

F&M Super Drug Stores Vix Drug Stores

27,000 27,000

In-line In-line

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Drug Stores, Retail Health care/vitamins Prescription drugs Over-the-counter drugs Cosmetics Franchising

Drug Emporium, Inc. is a specialty retailer of discountpriced merchandise, including health and beauty aids, cosmetics and greeting cards. All stores operate full service pharmacies. In addition to 135 company owned stores known as Drug Emporium and F&M Super Drug Stores, 84 franchise stores also exist. The company recently announced that it has completed the acquisition of the 12-store Vix deep discount chain drug stores operated by Tops, a division of Ahold International. The stores are operating in the Buffalo and Rochester, New York areas. Drug Emporium has an intensive management training program where trainees spend time in the field working every position in a Durg Emporium store, learning about the company from the ground up. The company newsletter, The Bottom Line, keeps employees up-to-date. Both management and staff associates are encouraged to offer input. The company participates in the Heart Of The Holidays promotion, which allows customers to color greeting cards and return them to any Drug Emporium. The store then sends these cards along with gifts to kids who must spend the holidays in the hospital. The company also participates in the D.A.R.E. anti-drug program.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Drug Emporium F&M Super Drug Stores Vix

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. David L. Kreigel, CEO David L. Kreigel, Pres. Timothy S. McCord, CFO Timothy S. McCord, Treas.

Phone: 740-548-7080 Fax: 614-548-6541 Toll-Free: Address: 155 Hidden Ravines Drive, Powell, OH, 43065 Internet Address: www.drugemporium.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $839,443 1998 Sales: $836,405 1997 Sales: $855,016 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: DEMP

1999 Profits: $3,799 1998 Profits: $1,691 1997 Profits: $1,152 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 5,820

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $350,000 Second Exec. Salary: $200,000

Bonus: $197,291 Bonus: $30,000

Name-brand products at everyday low prices in a superstore format/Stores nationwide.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: SBC Advertising, Columbus, OH

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

245

DUANE READE INC Industry Group Code: 44611 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 8

Profits: 9

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Duane Reade Rock Bottom

6,719 11,396

$1040 per sq. ft. (for all stores)

In-line/Free-standing In-line/Free-standing

125 38

TYPES OF BUSINESS: Drug Stores, Retail

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES:

Named after the two streets where its first store was located, Duane Reade is the largest retail drugstore chain in New York City. The market leader in the Manhattan area, the company operates over 125 drugstores in that area alone and plans to open several more. Duane Reade recently purchased Rock Bottom, a 38-store chain with locations throughout the New York metropolitan area. The company's stores are very small and are tightly packed. Products and services offered include prescription and over-the-counter medications, foods and beverages, health aids, beauty products and photofinishing. Most of Duane Reade's merchandise is purchased directly through manufacturers, and the company's products are distributed through its two warehouses.

Rock Bottom Duane Reade

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Anthony J. Cudi, CEO Anthony J. Cudi, Pres. William Tennant, CFO Gary Charboneau, VP-Sales Joseph S. Lacko, VP-MIS Gary Charboneau, VP-Merch. Jerry M. Ray, VP-Oper.

Phone: 212-273-5700 Fax: 212-244-6527 Toll-Free: Address: 440 Ninth Ave., New York, NY, 10001 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $587,400 1997 Sales: $429,800 1996 Sales: $381,500 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: DRD

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-4,800 1997 Profits: $-14,700 1996 Profits: $-17,900 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $500,000 Second Exec. Salary: $266,539

Bonus: $1,000,000 Bonus: $324,000

Market leader in the Manhattan area.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

246

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

DUCKWALL ALCO STORES INC Industry Group Code: 45291 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 14

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

ALCO Duckwall

21,700 5500

Profits: 11

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Free-standing Free-standing

167 96

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Discount Stores, Retail Variety stores

Duckwall-ALCO Stores, Inc. is a regional retailer operating 263 stores in 18 states in the central U.S. The company’s strategy is to target smaller markets not served by other regional or national retail discount chains and to provide the most convenient access to retail shopping within each market. ALCO discount stores offer a full line of merchandise consisting of approximately 35,00 items. The company’s smaller Duckwall variety stores offer a more limited selection of merchandise. The company is continually improving its management information technologies to reduce costs, improve customer service and enhance general business planning. Recently, the company began an 18 month, $2.3 million project to update back office equipment and software used in the stores’ sales processing. Accounting systems, information systems, merchandise and inventory planning systems have been enhanced and are in the process of being implemented. In conjunction with this, the stores will receive radio frequency hand held devices to allow for additional efficiencies in processing inventory receipts and counts. Duckwall-ALCO plans to open at least 27 ALCO stores and 35 Duckwall stores in the near future. The company’s strategy regarding store development is to increase sales and profitability at existing stores by continually refining the merchandising mix, improving operating efficiencies and opening new stores.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: ALCO Duckwall

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Glen L. Shank, Pres. Richard A. Mansfield, VP-Finance James E. Schoenbeck, VP-Advertising James R. Fennema, VP-Merch. James E. Schoenbeck, VP-Oper. Richard A. Mansfield, Treas.

Phone: 785-263-3350 Fax: 785-263-7531 Toll-Free: Address: 401 Cottage Street, Abilene, KS, 67410 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $363,509 1998 Sales: $323,254 1997 Sales: $278,819 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: DUCK

1999 Profits: $6,259 1998 Profits: $7,491 1997 Profits: $6,058 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 5,150

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $175,474 Second Exec. Salary: $140,426

Bonus: $85,000 Bonus: $53,500

Offers a full line of merchandise consisting of approximately 35,000 items.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

247

E4L INC Industry Group Code: 4541A Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 3

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Non-store retailing

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Transactional Television Programming (Infomercials)

National Media Corporation, having recently changed its name to e4L, Inc., is a global leader in marketing consumer products through direct response transactional commercial television programming, better known as infomercials. National Media makes infomercial programming available to more than 370 million households in over 70 countries worldwide. The company is striving to be recognized as a worldwide leader in direct marketing through leveraging its global presence and media access, developing and marketing innovative products and engineering the most efficient business model possible for the company. Recently, the company entered into a plan of reorganization and merger betweeb the company, ValueVision International and Quantum Direct Corporation, formerly known as V-L Holdings Corp. However, the merger agreement with ValueVision International was terminated after inability to reach an agreement concerning a restructured transaction between the companies. Currently, National Media Corporation is planning to capitalize on its ability to increase product awareness and act as a marketing partner to extend the sales life of its products by shifting products from infomercial marketing to non-infomercial marketing. These new marketing procedures will include continuity sales, retail distribution, catalogs, direct mail, direct response print ads, television home shopping programs, credit card statement inserts and other channels resulting from the development of strategic partnerships.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Quantum International Limited Quantum Television Amazing Discoveries Ask Mike! PR TV Nova Shop DirectAmerica e4L, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Costantinos I. Costalas, COO John J. Sullivan, Sr. VP/CFO John W. Kirby, CEO-Quantum Television/Pres.

Phone: 818-461-6510 Fax: 818-461-6530 Toll-Free: Address: 15821 Venture Boulevard, 5th Floor, Encino, CA, 91436 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $278,500 1997 Sales: $358,200 1996 Sales: $292,600 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: NM

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-56,800 1997 Profits: $-45,700 1996 Profits: $16,600 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

430

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $550,000 Second Exec. Salary: $325,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

World's largest publicly-held infomercial company.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

248

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

EAGLE FOOD CENTERS INC Industry Group Code: 4451 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 23

Profits: 24

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Eagle Country Markets BOGO's Food and Deals

38,942 38,942

$10,604,550 per store/$272 per sq. ft.

Free-standing Free-standing

89 1

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Grocery Stores/Supermarkets, Retail

Eagle Food Centers, Inc. is a leading regional supermarket chain operating 90 supermarkets in the Quad Cities area of Illinois and Iowa, north, central and eastern Illinois, eastern Iowa and the Chicago/Fox River Valley and northwestern Indiana areas under the trade names Eagle Food Centers, Eagle Country Markets and BOGO’s. Most Eagle supermarkets offer a full line of groceries, meats, fresh produce, dairy products, delicatessen and bakery products, health and beauty aids and other general merchandise, as well as video rental and floral service. Eagle Country Markets represent the company’s current full line supermarket format. Of the 76 current Eagle Country Markets, 17 have been opened as new stores and 59 have been remodeled with the Eagle Country Market décor. All newly built Eagle Country Markets are designed to encourage shoppers to walk through the higher margin Power Aisle, which includes extensive perishable offerings. Eagle Food Centers use a traditional supermarket format. The company currently has thirteen stores operating under this format. BOGO’s Food and Deals uses a limited assortment format. The purpose of this store is to take advantage of consumer demand for deep discount stores in less densely populated markets. BOGO’s operates on three pricing themes: BOGO (buyone-get-one-free), advertised item and BOGO everyday low price.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Eagle Food Centers Eagle Country Markets Eagle Country Warehouse BOGO's Talon Insurance Company

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Robert J. Kelly, CEO Herbert T. Dotterer, Sr. VP-Finance/CFO Herbert T. Dotterer, Sr. VP-Admin. David S. Notron, Sr. VP-Retail

Phone: 309-787-7700 Fax: 309-787-7893 Toll-Free: Address: Rt. 67 & Knoxville Rd., Milan, IL, 61264 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $943,805 1998 Sales: $967,090 1997 Sales: $1,014,889 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: EGLE

1999 Profits: $-3,925 1998 Profits: $5,098 1997 Profits: $3,248 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 6,495

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $360,500 Second Exec. Salary: $142,970

Bonus: $214,317 Bonus: $81,433

Concentration in certain markets/Carries over 23,000 items.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Ivie & Associates, Davenport, IA

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

249

EAGLE HARDWARE & GARDEN INC Industry Group Code: 44413 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 6

Profits: 3

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Eagle Hardware & Garden

128,000

$32,500,000 per store/$1,084 per sq. ft.

Free-standing

32

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Building Materials/Hardware Stores Garden supplies

Eagle Hardware & Garden, Inc. is a leading operator of home improvement centers in the western United States. The company has 32 stores with approximately 4.1 million square feet of selling space. Eagle Hardware stores generated average annual sales per store of $32.5 million, the second highest in the industry. Since its inception, the company has focused on creating the best home improvement shopping experience for its customers by combining the selection and value associated with traditional warehouse-format home centers with the comfortable atmosphere and service orientation of specialty retailers. The company has differentiated its stores from those of other warehouse home improvement retailers by providing a bright, clean and well-organized customer-friendly shopping environment, with one of the broadest and deepest selections of brand name home improvement products available in the United States. The company provides exceptional customer service to both its target do-it-yourself customers, professional contractors. The company believes Eagle Hardware is an appealing destination for home improvement shoppers, including female customers, who favor the customer-oriented shopping environment of the company's stores over the often confusing atmosphere of the traditional warehouseformat home center. Up to four new 128,000 square foot superstores are planned for the near future. Many jobs will be created in the process. This is a good spot for those seeking management trainee posts.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Eagle Hardware & Garden

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Richard T. Takata, CEO Richard T. Takata, Pres./COO Ronald P. Maccarone, Exec. VP-Finance/CFO Robert M. Cleveland, VP-Mktg. John P. Foucrier, Exec. VP-Human Resources John P. Foucrier, Exec. VP-Admin.

Phone: 425-227-5740 Fax: 425-204-5168 Toll-Free: Address: 981 Powell Avenue SW, Renton, WA, 98055 Internet Address: www.eaglehardware.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $971,488 1997 Sales: $760,963 1996 Sales: $615,674 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: EAGL

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $29,916 1997 Profits: $21,737 1996 Profits: $11,335 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 4,872

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $340,850 Second Exec. Salary: $286,406

Bonus: $133,970 Bonus: $117,998

Customer-friendly stores/Prime locations close to major freeways or thoroughfares.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: EvansGroup, Salt Lake City, UT

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

250

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

EDISON BROTHERS STORES INC Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 12

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

J. Riggings JW/Jeans West Oaktree REPP 5-7-9 Shifty's

2,666 1,691 2,437 3,949 1,824 2,506

Profits: 49

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Mall Mall Mall Mall Mall Mall

312 297 66 176 260 16

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel-Men's, Retail Women's apparel Footwear

Edison Brothers Stores, Inc. owns and operates chains of specialty retailing stores located in forty-seven states of the United States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands and Canada. The company conducts its principal operations in two business segments: apparel and footwear. The company currently operates 1,605 stores located primarily in shopping malls. Edison Brothers Stores' menswear chains include J. Riggings, JW Group (including JW, Oaktree and Coda), REPP Ltd. Big & Tall and Phoenix catalog operations. 5-7-9 is the company's womenswear chain. Shifty’s is an experimental concept that provides apparel for both men and women. The company’s footwear chains include Bakers/Leeds, Precis and Wild Pair. The company recently announced a sweeping organizational realignment designed to help its retail chains focus on merchandising. The company has created a new trend merchandising function and centralized store operations, marketing and planning and allocation, three areas key to leveraging the company’s resources and driving sales.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: J. Riggings JW/Jeans West Oaktree Repp Ltd. Phoenix Bakers/Leeds Précis Wild Pair

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Lawrence E. Honig, CEO Lawrence E. Honig, Pres. David B. Cooper, Exec. VP/CFO Kimberly Richmond, Sr. VP-Mktg. Lee Johnson, Sr. VP-Human Resources Lawrence Pyles, VP/CIO

Phone: 314-331-6000 Fax: 314-331-7200 Toll-Free: Address: P.O. Box 3315, South Hackensack, NJ, 07607-1900 Internet Address: www.edisonbrothers.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $949,900 1997 Sales: $1,090,400 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: EBS

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-62,300 1997 Profits: $-143,200 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 24,600

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $484,658 Second Exec. Salary: $352,083

Bonus: $1,587,500 Bonus: $129,522

Locations throughout the U.S.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 4 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

251

EGGHEAD.COM INC Industry Group Code: 4541 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 3

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 14

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

On-line only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Computers and software sales

Egghead.com, Inc. is one of the leading on-line resellers of personal computer hardware, software, peripherals and accessories to consumers and businesses. The company sells a broad selection of PC hardware and software products, as well as other consumer merchandise, through three Internet websites: Egghead.com, Surplusdirect.com and Surplusauction.com. Egghead also operates a direct response division. The company offers products consisting of current and off-price merchandise, including excess, closeout, refurbished and reconditioned goods. Egghead recently enhanced its Internet presence by acquiring Surplus Software, Inc., an Oregon based company. Egghead has also completely shifted its business emphasis to Internet commerce by closing its former 80-store retail network. Egghead plans to become profitable by taking advantage of the projected growth in Internet commerce through marketing agreements with other high traffic web sites, increased brand recognition and unique and compelling merchandise offers. In addition, Egghead has developed direct-ship programs with some of its suppliers through the use of electronic data interchange links, allowing it to further expand its product offerings without increasing its inventory and handling costs or exposure to inventory risk.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Surplusdirect.com Surplusauction.com Surplus Software, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Terrence M. Strom, CEO Brian W. Bender, VP/CFO James F. Kalasky, VP-Advertising Tommy E. Collins, VP-MIS James F. Kalasky, VP-Merch.

Phone: 509-922-7031 Fax: 509-921-9729 Toll-Free: Address: 22705 East Mission Avenue, Liberty Lake, WA, 99019 Internet Address: www.egghead.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $148,700 1998 Sales: $293,100 1997 Sales: $360,700 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: EGGS

1999 Profits: $-34,400 1998 Profits: $-50,200 1997 Profits: $-39,700 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

337

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $289,255 Second Exec. Salary: $246,937

Bonus: $ Bonus: $7,026

Has developed direct ship relationships with suppliers.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

252

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

ELCOM INTERNATIONAL INC Industry Group Code: 4541 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 10

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Direct marketing

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

On-line/Direct Marketing Interactive electronic commerce Computers/accessories sales Develops e-commerce software Office products sales

Elcom International, Inc. conducts its operations through Elcom Systems and Catalink Direct. The company’s technology subsidiary, Elcom Systems, Inc., develops and licenses full-circle electronic commerce software that automates the business-to-business transaction cycle, linking buyers and sellers throughout product selection, ordering, fulfillment, delivery and financial settlement. Elcom Systems provides software applications and implementation services to create business-oriented electronic commerce solutions. By automating routine tasks, Elcom Systems can assist companies in maintaining a competitive advantage, compressing traditional purchasing cycles from days to minutes. The company offers a Personal Electronic Catalog and Ordering System known as PECOS. PECOS Commerce Manager enables on-line transactions linking sellers to their customers throughout product selection, ordering, fulfillment and delivery. PECOS Procurement Manager can enable purchasing departments to improve their procurement processes. Elcom International, Inc. recently signed a license for auction software technology to broaden the website capabilities and appeal of Elcom.com, the company’s wholly-owned Internet subsidiary. Elcom.com recently announced that PECOS will begin to offer its Internet-based automated procurement system hosted on its computer platform as a remote outsourced service to virtually any size business. Elcom.com and MasterCard International Incorporated have entered into a global marketing agreement under which they will co-market Elcom.com's PECOS system for use with MasterCard's Corporate Purchasing Card. Elcom.com recently began operating an Internet online storefront, selling PC products to businesses and consumers via its recently signed strategic alliance with S.P. Richards Company, a leading wholesale distributor of business and office supplies.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Computer Specialties, Inc. Computerware, Inc. Lantec Elcom.com, Inc. Prophet Group Limited Data Supplies Limited Catalink Direct, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Robert J. Crowell, CEO Laurence F. Mulhern, Exec. VP/CFO Tom Barth, VP-Corporate Dev. Laurence F. Mulhern, Treas.

Phone: 781-440-3333 Fax: 781-762-1540 Toll-Free: Address: 10 Oceana Way, Norwood, MA, 02062 Internet Address: www.elcominternational.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $763,600 1997 Sales: $760,136 1996 Sales: $620,115 1995 Sales: $311,423

Stock Ticker: ELCO

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-25,561 1997 Profits: $10,288 1996 Profits: $5,575 1995 Profits: $2,244

Employees:

989

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $325,000 Second Exec. Salary: $299,000

Bonus: $285,000 Bonus: $175,000

Its PECOS technology is the first client/server, Windows- and transaction-based electronic marketing and ordering system to generate significant revenues.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

253

ELDER BEERMAN STORES CORP (THE) Industry Group Code: 4521 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 18

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

The Elder-Beerman Store El-Bee Shoe Shoebilee! Bee-gee Shoes

30,000-300,000 3,000-10,000 31,000-10,000

Profits: 23

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Malls/In-line Malls/In-line Mall/In-line

62 36 20 60

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Department Stores, Retail Specialty shoe stores Private label credit card program Furniture stores

The Elder-Beerman Stores Corp. operates department stores that sell a wide range of moderate to better brand merchandise. In addition, the company owns a specialty shoe store chain and a private label credit card program through its wholly owned subsidiaries, The Bee-Gee Shoe Corp. and The El-Bee Chargit Corp., respectively. ElderBeerman operates approximately 62 department stores and two furniture stores and Bee-Gee operates 60 stores, principally in smaller midwestern markets. The company recently remodeled a store in Columbus, Indiana. This expansion increased the store's retail space nearly 40 percent, from 53,000 to more than 73,000 square feet. In addition, the company will retain and operate the 41,000square foot store in West Virginia, which Elder Beerman Stores obtained as part of its acquisition of Stone & Thomas.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: The Bee-Gee Shoe Corporation El-Bee Chargit Corporation

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Frederick J. Mershad, CEO John A. Muskovich, Pres./COO John A. Muskovich, CFO John H. Mullen, VP-Mktg. Jeffrey D. Skoglind, Sr. VP-Human Resources James A. Lance, Sr. VP-Info. Systems Steven D. Lipton, Sr. VP/Controller James M. Zamberlan, Exec. VP-Stores

Phone: 937-296-2700 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 3155 El-Bee Road, Dayton, OH, 45439 Internet Address: www.elder-beerman.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $657,993 1998 Sales: $607,946 1997 Sales: $597,008 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: EBSC

1999 Profits: $25,461 1998 Profits: $-28,952 1997 Profits: $-12,429 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 8,830

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $559,263 Second Exec. Salary: $412,207

Bonus: $120,000 Bonus: $85,000

Good buying power/Expertise in shoe retailing.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

254

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

ELECTRONIC CLEARING HOUSE INC Industry Group Code: 52252A Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 4

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 3

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Support Services

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Credit Card Authorization Services Specialized point-of-sale (POS) equipment Credit card transaction processing Check guarantee services Integrated software applications Internet transaction delivery

Electronic Clearing House, Inc. provides credit card processing, check guarantee, inventory tracking services and various Internet services to over 19,500 retail merchants and U-Haul dealers across the nation. Through its subsidiary, Computer Based Controls, ECHO designs, develops and manufactures software and pointof-sale hardware that is utilized as credit card processing terminals, automated money order dispensers, utility bill payment systems and inventory tracking devices. The National Credit Card Reserve Corporation (NCCR) provides all data center and customer services activities relating to transaction processing services. ECHO’s business endeavors include new financial services such as ECHOCASH, a service that allows the merchants to accept checks in addition to credit cards. The ECHOTEL and ECHOFAXPAY services allow merchants to submit activities using a phone or a fax machine, respectively. The company also finalized the development of ECHODETECT, a proprietary system that is instrumental in identifying and controlling cardholder or merchant fraud. The company's expertise is in point-of-sale (POS) hardware and software design, communication networks, and data center management services. Recently, ECHO deployed a secure Internet World Wide Web (WWW) server in anticipation of utilizing common commercial WWW browsers and the Internet as an additional POS transaction delivery mechanism. ECHONLINE is the service based on Internet technologies. It is aimed at enabling Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to submit transactions to the company on behalf of themselves or customers.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: National Credit Card Reserve Corporation XpressCheX, Inc. ECHO Payment Services, Inc. Computer Based Controls, Inc. ECHOfaxpay ECHOcash ECHOtel ECHOonline

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Joel M. Barry, CEO Lary J. Thomas, Pres./COO Alice L. Cheung, CFO Greg Imlay, Dir.-Mktg. Lary J. Thomas, Chief Tech. Officer

Phone: 818-706-8999 Fax: 818-597-8999 Toll-Free: Address: 28001 Dorothy Drive, Agoura Hills, CA, 9130-2697 Internet Address: www.echo-inc.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $21,063 1997 Sales: $18,623 1996 Sales: $14,342 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: ECHO

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $1,154 1997 Profits: $ 328 1996 Profits: $- 599 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

83

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $162,616 Second Exec. Salary: $146,937

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Provides innovative processing and electronic support services, including a secure system for Internet transactions.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 3 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 2 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

255

ELECTRONICS BOUTIQUE HOLDINGS CORP. Industry Group Code: 45112B Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Electronics Boutique Stop 'N Save Software Walden Software BC Sports Collectibles

1,200 1,250-5,000

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store:

1,000-5,000

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Mall In-line Mall Mall/In-line

528 (for all stores) 29 7

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Retail Games Stores

Electronics Boutique Holdings Corporation sells a variety of entertainment software and video games through its over 528 stores, which operate under the names Electronics Boutique and Stop ‘N Save Software. The stores span throughout 42 states, Australia, Canada, Puerto Rico and South Korea. Electronics Boutique Holdings Corporation additionally sells video game hardware, personal computer productivity software and accessories. As well as operating its multitude of stores, the company manages 39 WaldenSoftware mall stores for Borders Group, Inc. Electronics Boutique holdings Corporation sells products through its Web site and provides management services for its 25% owned Electronics boutique Plc’s stores, as well as department store-based concessions in the United Kingdom and Ireland.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Electronics Boutique Holdings Corp. Electronics Boutique Stop 'N Save Software WaldenSoftware Electronics Boutique Plc's Borders Group, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Joseph J. Firestone, CEO Joseph J. Firestone, Pres. John R. Panichello, Sr. VP/CFO Leslie Boris, VP-Human Resources Jeffrey W. Griffiths, Sr. VP-Merch. and Dist.

Phone: 610-430-8100 Fax: 610-430-6574 Toll-Free: Address: 931 S. Matlack St., West Chester, PA, 19382 Internet Address: www.ebworld.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $573,919 1998 Sales: $453,972 1997 Sales: $339,585 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: ELBO

1999 Profits: $20,285 1998 Profits: $22,064 1997 Profits: $7,908 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,600

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $ Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

International and Internet presence.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 2 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

256

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

ELEGANT ILLUSIONS INC Industry Group Code: 44831 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 12

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 9

Annual Sales Per Store:

Elegant Illusions Steinbeck Jewelers Seaport Jewelers Kings Alley Jewelers Bourbon Street Gallery

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

In-line/Free-standing In-line/Free-standing

26 1 1 1 1

In-line/Free-standing

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Jewelry, Retail Fine art gallery

Elegant Illusions, Inc. primarily deals in the retail imitation jewelry business and currently operates and owns approximately 26 retail imitation jewelry stores, two fine jewelry stores and one fine art gallery. The company’s stores are located throughout California, Utah, Minnesota, Oregon, Missouri, Louisiana, Nevada, Hawaii, Wisconsin and St. Croix and St. Thomas, U.S Virgin Islands. The company’s two fine jewelry stores are located in Monterey, California and St. Croix, while the fine art gallery is located in New Orleans, Louisiana and operates under the name Bourbon Street Gallery. The fine jewelry stores operate under the Steinbeck Jewelers and Kings Alley Jeweler names, along with the company’s Steinbeck Lady handicraft, gift and jewelry stores. Steinbeck Lady stores are incorporated within Steinbeck Jewelers stores. The company recently announced plans to expand its location base to include 81 additional stores. Three of these new locations have been added at present, and six more are planned to conduct following openings.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Elegant Ilusions Steinbeck Jeweler Kings Alley Jeweler Steinbeck Lady Bourbon Street Gallery

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. James C. Cardinal, CEO Gavin Gear, Pres. Tamara Gear, Sec./Treas.

Phone: 831-649-1814 Fax: 831-649-1001 Toll-Free: Address: 542 Lighthouse Ave., Ste.5, Pacific Grove, CA, 93950 Internet Address: www.elegantillusions.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $9,707 1997 Sales: $8,386 1996 Sales: $7,319 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: EILL

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $ 318 1997 Profits: $ 585 1996 Profits: $ 670 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

172

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $73,750 Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Rapidly expanding/Offers fine imitation jewelry

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

257

ENESCO GROUP INC Industry Group Code: 45411 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 16

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 25

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Direct marketing only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Gift and Collectible Items, Direct Giftware retailer Home Accessories

Enesco Group, Inc. is a direct global marketer of a wide variety of collectibles, giftware and home accessories. The company is well known for offering several widely recognized branded products, including products from the Mickey & Co., Precious Moments, Cherished Teddies, Coca Cola, Mary Engelbreit, Anne Geddes, David Winter Cottages and Beatrix Potter lines. Most of the company's products are manufactured in the far east and are then sold through nearly 30,000 retailers in the United States, as well as internationally. From porcelain and cold-cast collectibles, such as figurines and cottages, to tableware, sculpture, ornaments and music boxes, Enesco Group, Inc. offers it all. The Precious Moments line accounts for 38% of sales, while the Cherished Teddies line accounts for 20% of sales.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Precious Moments Cherished Teddies Mickey & Co. Coca Cola Mary Engelbreit Anne Geddes Beatrix Potter David Winter Cottages

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Jeffrey A. Hutsell, CEO Jeffrey A. Hutsell, Pres. Patrick J.. Gelbhardt, Sr. VP-Finance and Acc. Josette Goldberg, VP-Human Resources Allan G. Kierstead, VP-Admin. Jeffrey W. Lemaseur, Treas. Thomas J. Hudson, Sr. VP-U.S. Oper.

Phone: 630-875-5300 Fax: 630-875-5909 Toll-Free: Address: 225 Windsor Dr., Itasca, IL, 60143 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $451,040 1997 Sales: $476,183 1996 Sales: $515,448 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: ENC

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-22,443 1997 Profits: $-28,297 1996 Profits: $38,437 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,750

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $140,779 Second Exec. Salary: $126,588

Bonus: $882,626 Bonus: $1,086,355

Internationally distributed products.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

258

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

EQUIFAX INC Industry Group Code: 52232A Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 2

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Support Services

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Collections Agency Commercial software Physician profiling and claims review systems On-line demographics database service Credit card transaction switching Debt collection

Equifax Inc. is a holding company which conducts business operations through subsidiary companies. It serves the banking, financial, retail, credit card, telecommunications/utilities, transportation, healthcare and government industries. The company’s business areas are divided into separate groups and are conducted on a profit center basis. Equifax recently made a few acquisitions, including HLS Financial Group and Foothills Collection Services, risk management companies offering collections services to the healthcare industry; DICOM S.A., a provider of consumer and commercial information in Chile; Group Increase S.A., a Spanish commercial information services company; and Goldleaf Technologies, Inc., an electronic banking software company. Equifax also entered into a joint venture with Transaction Technologies Limited in order to provide credit card processing services to commercial banks in India. Other business transactions include the selling of its National Decision Systems unit, which is a part of the North American Information Services segment of the company, and the acquisition of sixteen credit bureaus. The company also teamed with CUNA Mutual Group to debut a new credit card insurance enhancement package that will benefit both credit unions and their card-carrying members. Equifax recently introduced Equifax Secure ECommerce Solutions, which enables companies to authenticate consumer identity, secure applications and manage digital certificates. Equifax Account Acquisition Services is a new product developed to provide account application processing for wireless, land line, telecommunication and utility providers.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Equifax Healthcare Information Services, Inc. Equifax Credit Information Services, Inc. Equifax Services Equifax Europe Ltd. Equifax South America, Inc. Equifax Payment Services, Inc. Acrofax, Inc. Market Knowledge, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Thomas F. Chapman, CEO Thomas F. Chapman, Pres. David A. Post, Corp. VP/CFO C. Richard Crutchfield, Corporate VP/Chief Tech. Officer

Phone: 404-885-8000 Fax: 404-888-8682 Toll-Free: Address: 1600 Peachtree Street, NW, Atlanta, GA, 30309 Internet Address: www.equifax.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $1,620,978 1997 Sales: $1,366,087 1996 Sales: $1,222,798 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: EFX

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $193,433 1997 Profits: $183,737 1996 Profits: $177,617 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 14,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $496,186 Second Exec. Salary: $323,568

Bonus: $71,450 Bonus: $278,515

Owns some of the strongest commercial databases, including massive databanks on consumer demographics, psycho graphics, consumer credit and health care claims.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

259

EVANS INC Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 47

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Evans Evans Woman Maximillion

7,800-26,174 2,633-3,034

Profits: 39

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Mall/In-line In-line

34 2 20

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel-Women's, Retail Furs

Founded in 1929, Evans, Inc. is a retailer of fur apparel, cloth coats, suits, dresses, sportswear and related items and services. All company-owned stores carry fur apparel trademarked by the company’s Black Diamond Mink label, with the exception of two Evans Woman locations. Women’s ready-to-wear apparel is additionally carried in the 10 Chicago area Evans and Evans Woman locations. Evans, Inc. operates stores throughout metropolitan Chicago, Austin, Dallas and Washington, D.C. areas. Leased department store locations exist in 54 locations in eight major department store chains across the eastern half of the United States, with three California locations. Recently, Evans acquired the world-wide fur trademark of Maximillion and signed a licensed agreement with Bloomingdale’s Stores, a division of Federated Department Stores, Inc., to operate 20 fur salons under the Maximillian name. These locations span throughout Chicago, Florida and California. Evans recently discontinued four seasonal fur salons in fiscal 1998. The company plans to continue retaining its customer base by offering a variety of fur services, including cleaning, storage, repair, restyling and insurance.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Evans Evans Woman Maximillian

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Robert K. Meltzer, CEO Robert K. Meltzer, Pres. William E. Koziel, CFO/VP-Finance Robert K. Meltzer, Exec. VP/General Merch. Mgr. John A. Sarama, VP-Oper.

Phone: 312-855-2000 Fax: 312-855-3150 Toll-Free: Address: 36 South State Street, Chicago, IL, 60603 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $92,255 1997 Sales: $82,704 1996 Sales: $96,566 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: EVAN

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $- 835 1997 Profits: $-4,724 1996 Profits: $ 234 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

825

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $244,992 Second Exec. Salary: $186,250

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Has 54 leased departments in eight major department store chains.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: State Advertising Agency, Inc., Chicago, IL

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

260

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

EVANS SYSTEMS INC Industry Group Code: 44512 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 10

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

ESI Convenience Stores ESI Gas Stations

Profits: 9

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

$1,249,807

Free-standing Free-standing

26 1

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Convenience Stores, Retail After-market chemical products Refined petroleum products Environmental remediation services Low and high pressure refrigerants

Founded in 1968, Evans Systems, Inc. engages in convenience store operations, the packaging and marketing of after-market chemical products and environmental remediation services. The company prides itself as being vertically integrated and growth-oriented, as it has grown from a single gas station in Bay City, Texas to over 100 gasoline retail facilities, one petroleum terminal and several bulk plants. Through recent addition of fuel exchange agreements with major petroleum companies, the operations of these facilities were strengthened. The company additionally distributes lubricants, specialty petroleum products, tires and certain automotive accessories in its Texas and Louisiana facilities. Evans Systems’ convenience store business strategy includes plans to continue upgrading facilities to meet modern images and to examine and reduce operating and overhead expenses to improve its efficiency and financial position. The company also plans to improve itself through the addition of the Taco Bell, Blimpie, Pizza Inn and Hardee’s franchises to its existing locations. Evans Systems plans to lease or sell its marginal locations maintaining fuel profits through contracts tied to leases.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Petroleum Marketing Convenience Stores ChemWay Systems, Inc. EDCO Environmental

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Jerriel L. Evans. Sr., CEO Jerriel L. Evans, Sr., Pres. Larry Miller, CFO/VP J.L. Evans, Jr., VP-Human Resources J.L. Evans, Jr., VP-Investor Relations

Phone: 409-245-2424 Fax: 409-244-5070 Toll-Free: Address: 720 Avenue F North, Bay City, TX, 77414 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $104,114 1997 Sales: $137,996 1996 Sales: $133,007 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: EVSI

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-4,164 1997 Profits: $-4,339 1996 Profits: $1,119 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

304

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $132,278 Second Exec. Salary: $125,093

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Offers fast food at six locations through Taco Bell and Blimpie franchises.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

261

EZCORP INC Industry Group Code: 4400 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 7

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

EZ Pawn EZ Money Center Jewelryland Outlet

Profits: 5

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

$112,307 + loans

Free-standing

286

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Pawn Shops Pawn loans Non-recourse loans Retailers of previously owned merchandise

EZCORP, Inc. is engaged in establishing, acquiring and operating pawnshops which function as convenient sources of consumer credit and as value-oriented specialty retailers of primarily previously-owned merchandise. Through its lending function, EZCORP makes relatively small, non-recourse loans secured by pledges of tangible personal property. Jewelry sales represent approximately 48% of EZCORP’s merchandise sales with the remaining sales consisting primarily of electronics, tools, firearms and musical instruments. Inventory management continues to be a major focus of the company. EZCORP recently opened 37 new stores, acquired three operating pawnshops and closed one store. This brings the company’s total store count to a record 286. EZCORP also entered the Las Vegas, Nevada and Central Florida markets. The firm plans to continue its expansion in existing markets and to enter new markets in other states which have regulatory, demographic and competitive characteristics that are conducive to successful pawnshop operations. EZCORP recently introduced the new EZMoney concept in the Sacramento, CA. market. EZMoney is a financial center designed for families who do not have a banking relationship. These centers provide jewelry pawn loans and offer customers other financial services such as check cashing, post-dated or payday loans, money orders and money wires. The current stores progress will be monitored closely before expansion into other markets.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: EZ Pawn EZ Layaway EZ Money Center Jewelryland Outlet

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Vincent A. Lambiase, CEO Vincent A. Lambiase, Pres. Dan N. Tonissen, Sr. VP/CFO Filbert A. DiNardo, VP-Human Resources J. Jefferson Dean, VP-Strategic Planning and Business Dev.

Phone: 512-314-3400 Fax: 512-314-3404 Toll-Free: 800-873-7296 Address: 1901 Capital Parkway, Austin, TX, 78746 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $197,394 1997 Sales: $180,299 1996 Sales: $173,626 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: EZPW

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $9,213 1997 Profits: $8,433 1996 Profits: $3,543 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 2,200

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $450,000 Second Exec. Salary: $325,000

Bonus: $149,193 Bonus: $183,993

One of the largest pawn shop chains in the United States.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Lee Tilford, Austin, TX

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

262

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

FACTORY 2 U STORES INC Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 25

Profits: 38

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Family Bargain Centers

13,300

$2,013,000 per store/$192 per sq.ft (all stores)

Strip centers, In-line

127

Factory 2-U

13,300

Strip centers, In-line

39

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel Stores, Retail Housewares Footwear Toys

Factory 2-U Stores, Inc. operates 166 off-price retail apparel and home goods stores under the Family Bargain Center and Factory 2-U names through its wholly owned subsidiaries, General Textiles and Family Bargain Corporation. The company’s 127 Family Bargain Center stores and 39 Factory 2-U stores are located throughout Arizona, California, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Texas and Washington, and primarily sell first quality, in-season clothing for men, women and children. The stores additionally feature home goods, with all of the merchandise presented generally priced lower than competing discount and regional off-price stores. Most stores display signs in both English and Spanish and are staffed with bilingual personnel, as a significant portion of the company’s customers are of Hispanic or other ethnic origin. The company’s primary audience consists largely of blue-collar workers, lower-income families and persons wishing to purchase value-priced merchandise. The playing of locally popular music, the use of brightly colored pennants and occasional festive outdoor promotions enhance the store atmosphere. Factory 2-U, Inc. plans to continue providing its customers with high-quality, valuepriced merchandise.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Factory 2-U Stores, Inc. General Textiles Familiy Bargain Corporation Family Bargain Center Factory 2-U

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Mike Searles, CEO Mike Searles, Pres. Jonathan W. Spatz, Exec. VP/CFO Tracy Parks, CIO/Sr. VP B. Mary McNabb, Exec. VP-Merch. William F. Cass, Exec. VP-Oper. Denis LeClair, VP/General Merch. Mgr.

Phone: 619-627-1800 Fax: 619-637-4199 Toll-Free: Address: 4000 Ruffin Rd., San Diego, CA, 92123 Internet Address: www.familybargain.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $338,223 1998 Sales: $300,592 1997 Sales: $252,165 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: FTUS

1999 Profits: $5,019 1998 Profits: $- 129 1997 Profits: $-36,564 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 2,208

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $388,328 Second Exec. Salary: $199,038

Bonus: $125,000 Bonus: $32,500

Festive store atmosphere.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

263

FACTORY CARD OUTLET CORPORATION Industry Group Code: 45322 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 5

Profits: 6

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Factory Card Outlet

12,000

$1,129.131 per store/$89 per sq. ft.

In-line

210

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Greeting Cards Party supplies Gift wrap Special occasion merchandise

Factory Card Outlet Corporation, a quickly growing chain of company-owned superstores, offers a vast assortment of party supplies, greeting cards, gift-wrap, balloons and other special occasion merchandise at value prices. The company, which operates 210 stores in 22 states, is the largest chain of company-owned superstores in its industry. Factory Card Outlet Corporation’s superstores continue to focus on providing its customers with a valueoriented, one-stop shopping destination for card, party supply and special occasion merchandise for a wide range of celebratory events. The company carries merchandise designed to outfit birthdays, graduations, weddings, baby showers and other family, religious and special occasions. Factory Card Outlet Corporation recently opened 58 superstores and plans to open approximately 40 more in the coming fiscal year, and then an additional 60 in the year after that. Factory Card Outlet Corporation’s plans for rapid expansion and attention to customer needs are conducive to planned rapid profit growth.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Factory Card Outlet Partymania

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Charles R. Cumello, CEO Charles R. Cumello, Pres. Thomas W. Stoltz, VP-Finance Matthew M. Ellis, Sr. VP-Human Resources Martin J. Merksamer, VP/General Merch. Mgr. Leonard F. Rucker, VP-Store Oper. Glen J. Franchi, Treas.

Phone: 630-238-0010 Fax: 630-238-9547 Toll-Free: Address: 745 Birginal Drive, Bensenville, IL, 60106 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $226,499 1998 Sales: $110,700 1997 Sales: $133,946 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: FCPYQ

1999 Profits: $-28,356 1998 Profits: $- 889 1997 Profits: $1,710 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,200

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $300,673 Second Exec. Salary: $188,943

Bonus: $28,000 Bonus: $8,000

Offers party products in superstore format.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

264

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

FAIR ISAAC AND COMPANY INC Industry Group Code: 54151 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Support Services Only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Retail Credit Support Services-Credit Software Developer of data management systems and services Direct marketing services Personal lines insurance industries services

Fair, Isaac and Company, Inc. is a leading developer of data management systems and services for the financial services, direct marketing and personal lines insurance industries. The company employs various tools, such as database enhancement software, predictive modeling, adaptive control and systems automation to help its customers make better decisions through data. Fair, Isaac pioneered the credit risk scoring technologies now employed by most major U.S. consumer credit grantors. In more recent years, Fair, Isaac has expanded its product and service offerings, applying its proven risk/reward modeling capabilities to automobile and home insurance underwriting, small business and mortgage lending, telecommunications and most recently, healthcare. In June of 1999, Dillard National Bank, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Dillard's, Inc., purchased behavior models from Fair, Isaac and Company, Inc. to evaluate customerlevel risk across its retail portfolio of 10 million accounts. In addition, the company and Hewlett-Packard Company recently announced that several of Fair, Isaac's Customer Relationship Management (CRM) solutions are now available on the HP 9000 family of enterprise servers, featuring the HP-UX operating environment. Warsawbased PKO PB, the largest network of bank branches in Poland, with 465,000 sub-branches, 176 external outlets and nearly 6,000 agencies, plans to install Fair, Isaac and Company, Inc.'s CreditDesk® origination and underwriting software to improve operational efficiency and risk management and increase profitability in its consumer lending operations.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: DynaMark Risk Management Technologies Risk Management Technologies Credit & Risk Management Associates, Inc. SEARCH StrategyWare TRIAD CreditDesk HORIZON

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Larry E. Rosenberger, CEO/Pres. John D. Woldrich, Exec. VP/COO Patricia Cole, Sr. VP/CFO Michael Malloy, Sr. VP-Mktg. John C. Waller, VP-Human Resources Sean Salehi, Sr. VP/CIO

Phone: 415-472-2211 Fax: 415-492-9381 Toll-Free: 800-999-2955 Address: 120 North Redwood Drive, San Rafael, CA, 94903 Internet Address: www.fairisaac.com Notes/Other Info: mickwets@fairisaac. com

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $245,545 1998 Sales: $199,099 1997 Sales: $155,913 1996 Sales: $117,089 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: FIC

1999 Profits: $24,327 1998 Profits: $20,686 1997 Profits: $17,423 1996 Profits: $12,753 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,487

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $222,500 Second Exec. Salary: $214,750

Bonus: $125,250 Bonus: $101,870

Very powerful proprietary software to analyze consumer databases.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 7 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 2 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

265

FAMILY DOLLAR STORES INC Industry Group Code: 45291 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 7

Profits: 3

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Family Dollar

6,000-8,000

$770,362 per store

Free-standing/In-line

3,066

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Discount Stores, Retail

Organized in 1959, Family Dollar Stores, Inc. operates a chain of 3,066 self-service retail discount stores throughout 38 states and the District of Columbia. Recently the company closed 65 of its stores, relocated 38 stores within the same shopping center or market area, expanded 52 stores in size, renovated 170 stores, and closed approximately 50 stores during the past fiscal year. All of the stores are occupied under leases, with the exception of 137 company-owned locations. Family Dollar Stores, Inc. currently plans to open approximately 350 to 400 more stores. From August to November, 1998, the company opened 50 new stores, closed one store, relocated five stores, expanded five stores and renovated 97 stores. Family Dollar Stores plans to outfit all new locations with a new and improved store layout that features increased emphasis on seasonal and promotional goods, improved presentation of merchandise, lower fixtures and wider aisles. The company believes that this will create more efficient operation, as well as provide a more attractive, customer-friendly environment. This is a good place to consider if you want an entry-level or management trainee job in a small town.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Family Dollar

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Leon Levine, CEO Howard R. Levine, Pres./COO R. James Kelly, CFO R. James Kelly, Chief Admin. Officer Leon Levine, Treas.

Phone: 704-847-6961 Fax: 704-847-0189 Toll-Free: Address: PO Box 1017, Charlotte, NC, 28201-1017 Internet Address: www.familydollar.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $2,361,930 1997 Sales: $1,994,973 1996 Sales: $1,714,627 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: FDO

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $103,288 1997 Profits: $74,677 1996 Profits: $60,588 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 13,300

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $875,000 Second Exec. Salary: $273,686

Bonus: $456,313 Bonus: $

Locations in 38 states/Well-known for offering a wide variety of merchandise at discount prices.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

266

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

FATBRAIN.COM INC Industry Group Code: 4541 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 14

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 3

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

On-line only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Information Resources, Retailer Retail stores Technology-based training solutions Product manuals Research reports Technical and professional books

Formerly Computer Literacy, Inc., Fatbrain.com, Inc. is the leading on-line retailer of information sources. With a broad selection of hundreds of thousands of information resource titles, visitors to Fatbrain.com’s website can plump up their cerebellums through technical and professional books, technology-based training solutions, product manuals and research reports. The company’s materials are competitively priced, the website is easily navigated and a number of value-added services are available. Fatbrain utilizes cross-traffic between its on-line and retail operations to acquire new customers. The company’s strategic alliances include a number of publishers and suppliers, including CBT Group PLC, Microsoft, Sun Microsystems, Cisco Systems, HewlettPackard Company, 3Com and Hughes. Since launching its on-line operations, Fatbrain has experienced continued rapid growth. The company recently acquired Computer Literacy Bookshops, Inc. and currently focuses on enhancing the customer experience and expanding product offerings.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Computer Literacy Bookshops, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Chris McAskill, CEO Chris McAskill, Pres. Donald P. Alvarez, CFO/VP-Finance Dennis F. Capovilla, VP-Sales Kim Orumchian, VP-Engineering Dennis F.Capovilla, VP-Business Dev.

Phone: 408-541-2020 Fax: 408-752-9919 Toll-Free: Address: 1308 Orleans Dr., Sunnyvale, CA, 94089 Internet Address: www.fatbrain.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $19,780 1998 Sales: $10,900 1997 Sales: $ 180 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: FATB

1999 Profits: $-9,892 1998 Profits: $-3,190 1997 Profits: $- 567 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

141

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $ Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Focused on books for business and professional people.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

267

FEDERAL EXPRESS CORP Industry Group Code: 4921 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Support Services only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Overnight Shipping Services

Federal Express Corporation offers a wide range of express services, providing rapid, reliable, time-definite delivery of documents, packages and freight to more than 210 countries. This firm is a top provider of overnight delivery services for merchandise sold over the Internet and through catalogs. In addition, it is the world's premier provider of delivery for business documents and delivery for inventory in many industries, completing nearly three million shipments each day. The company connects areas of the world that generate 90 percent of the world's gross domestic product through door-to-door customs-cleared service, with a money-back guarantee. The company's extensive air route authorities and transportation infrastructure combined with its use of leading-edge information technologies makes the company the world's largest express-distribution company. Federal Express recently received re-certification of ISO 9001 registration for its global operations, currently the most rigorous international standard for quality management and assurance. Federal Express is the only express transportation company to receive worldwide certification of its systems. The ISO 9000 quality standards were developed by the International Organization for Standardization in Geneva, Switzerland to promote and facilitate international trade. More than 90 countries, including European Union members, the United States and Japan, recognize ISO 9000. In the first quarter of 1998, the company announced the only next business day 10:30 a.m. express cargo service from Asia to the United States, a direct flight from Osaka, Japan to Memphis, Tennessee. The nonstop daily flight cut transit times across the Pacific in half for customers, from 48 hours to 24 hours. With its plethora of people of color on nonmanagement tracks (like drivers), Federal Express hunts future managers in unlikely places.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Roberts Express Caliber Logistics Viking Freight

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Frederick W. Smith, CEO Frederick W. Smith, Pres. Alan B. Graf, Jr., Exec. VP/CFO T. Michael Glenn, Exec. VP-Market Dev. Dennis H. Jones, Exec. VP/CIO

Phone: 901-369-3600 Fax: 901-395-2000 Toll-Free: Address: 2005 Corporate Avenue, Memphis, TN, 38132 Internet Address: www.fdxcorp.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $15,872,800 1997 Sales: $11,519,750 1996 Sales: $10,273,619 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: FDX

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $503,100 1997 Profits: $361,227 1996 Profits: $307,777 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 76,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $805,000 Second Exec. Salary: $569,896

Bonus: $213,000 Bonus: $147,705

Dominant position in the overnight delivery business/Well-positioned to provide delivery support for merchandise sold over the Internet.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

268

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

FEDERATED DEPARTMENT STORES INC Industry Group Code: 4521 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 5

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 5

Annual Sales Per Store:

Bloomingdale's The Bon Marche Burdine's Macy's Goldsmith's Stern's

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Mall Mall Mall Mall Mall Mall

17 41 57 89 59 27

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Department Stores, Retail Apparel Cosmetics Home furnishings Accessories Catalogs

Federated Department Stores, Inc. is one of the United States’ leading operators of full-line department stores, with 219 stores in 26 states. The company’s business is conducted through seven distinct retail operations, including Bloomingdale’s, Macy’s, Abraham & Straus/ Jordan Marsh, The Bon Marche, Burdine’s, Lazarus, Rich’s/Goldsmith’s and Stern’s. Federated Department Stores’ operations offer a variety of merchandise, including men’s, women’s and children’s apparel and accessories, cosmetics, home furnishings and other consumer goods. The separate branches are diversified by the size of store, merchandising character and character of community served. The company’s stores are located within urban or suburban sites, principally in densely populated areas throughout the eastern, midwestern, northeastern, northwestern and southeastern regions of the United States. Federated Department Stores, Inc. intends to expand its business through the addition of several more locations during the upcoming fiscal years.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Bloomingdale's Macy's Lazarus The Bon Marche Burdine's Stern's Rich's Goldsmith's

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. James B. Zimmerman, CEO Karen M. Houget, Sr. VP/CFO Thomas G. Cody, Exec. VP-Human Resources T. Lundgren, Pres./Chief Merch. Officer Thomas G. Cody, Exec. VP-Law K. Hoguet, Treas.

Phone: 513-579-7000 Fax: 513-579-7555 Toll-Free: 800-261-5385 Address: 7 West Seventh Street, Cincinnati, OH, 45202 Internet Address: www.federated-fds.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $15,833,000 1998 Sales: $15,668,000 1997 Sales: $15,228,999 1996 Sales: $15,048,513 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: FD

1999 Profits: $662,000 1998 Profits: $536,000 1997 Profits: $265,864 1996 Profits: $74,553 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 118,800

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $1,265,208 Second Exec. Salary: $1,177,083

Bonus: $625,000 Bonus: $700,000

Name recognition for its stores/Well-established in its operating areas/Continues to grow through acquisitions.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

269

FERRELLGAS PARTNERS L P Industry Group Code: 44719 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 3

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 3

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Direct Marketing Only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Propane and Natural Gas, Retailer

Ferrellgas Partners, L.P., through its operating partnership, Ferrellgas, L.P., sells, distributes, markets and trades propane and other natural gas liquids. The partnership successfully serves the U.S. natural gas industry’s retail, wholesale, storage, transportation and petrochemical needs. The partnership distributes propane gas to more than 800,000 retail customers throughout the country. Most of the partnership’s customers live in rural America and depend on propane for home and water heating, cooking, and clothes drying. Ferrellgas’ agricultural customers use propane for crop drying, space heating and irrigation. The company’s growing industrial/commercial customer base uses propane for forklift power, temporary construction heat, manufacturing and cogeneration. The partnership markets and trades approximately one billion gallons of natural gas liquids through its Houston division, whose transportation fleet consists of 161 transport trucks and 314 railcars. In addition, the Houston division manages barge and sea vessel transportation ships on every U.S. liquified petroleum gas pipeline. The partnership owns and operates three large underground storage facilities strategically located in Arizona, Kansas and Utah. The partnership is the second largest retail marketer of propane, serving customers in 45 states.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Ferrellgas, Inc. Ferrellgas, L.P. Skelgas Propane, Inc. Superior Propane, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Danley K. Sheldon, Pres./CEO Kenneth G. Atchley, VP/COO-Western U.S. Kevin T. Kelly, VP/CFO Boyd H. McGathey, VP/COO-Eastern U.S. Kevin T. Kelly, Treas. James M. Hake, Sr. VP-Acquisitions

Phone: 816-792-1600 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 1 Liberty Plaza, Liberty, MO, 64068 Internet Address: www.Ferrellgas.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $667,353 1997 Sales: $804,298 1996 Sales: $653,640 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: FGP

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $4,943 1997 Profits: $23,218 1996 Profits: $23,347 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 3,494

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $465,000 Second Exec. Salary: $225,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $50,000

Second largest propane retailer in the U.S.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

270

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

FFP PARTNERS LP Industry Group Code: 44512 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 8

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 6

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Kwik-Pantry Nu-Won Taylor Food Mart Economy Drive-In

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Convenience Stores, Retail Truck stops Motor fuel concessions at independently operated outlets Wholesale fuel sales Money order sales Underground storage tank monitoring

Formed in December of 1986, FFP Partners, Ltd. acquired several convenience stores, truck stops, other retail motor fuel outlets and ancillary businesses from affiliates of its general partner, FFP Partners Management Company. The company owned and operated these businesses until December 1997, when FFP Partners, Ltd. underwent a restructuring. In that restructuring, the real estate used in the retail operations was retained by the company, while the convenience stores, truck stops, other retail motor fuel outlets and other businesses it conducted were transferred to FFP Marketing Company, Inc., in exchange for all the common stock of FFP Marketing. In addition, FFP Real Estate Trust, a newly formed Texas real estate investment trust that the company wholly owns, became the partner of FFP Partners, Ltd. As a result of the restructuring, all future business of the company will consist of the ownership and rental of real estate, though the company plans to expand its real estate holdings through the acquisition of pad retail sites including convenience stores and truck stops. Most of the company’s initial real estate investments will be in convenience store locations. Additionally, FFP Partners, Ltd. intends to pursue conversion to a real estate investment trust for federal tax purposes in the near future.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: FFP Partners FFP Marketing Company Kwik-Pantry Nu-Way Economy Drive-In Taylor Food Mart Lazer Wizard

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. John H. Harvison, CEO John H. Harvison, Pres. Craig T. Scott, VP- Finance/CFO Craig T. Scott, Treas.

Phone: 817-838-4700 Fax: 817-838-4776 Toll-Free: Address: 2801 Glenda Ave., Fort Worth, TX, 76117-4391 Internet Address: www.ffpmarketing.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $270,000 1997 Sales: $390,152 1996 Sales: $370,045 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: FFP

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $- 200 1997 Profits: $- 159 1996 Profits: $3,910 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,138

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $135,000 Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Expertise in real estate.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

271

FILENE'S BASEMENT CORP Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 17

Profits: 42

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Filene's Basement

24,600

$10,700,709 per store/$434 per sq. ft.

In-line

55

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel Stores, Retail

Filene’s Basement Corp. operates through its whollyowned subsidiary, Filene’s Basement, Inc., a chain of offprice specialty stores offering focused assortments of timely, fashionable, branded and private label merchandise at prices typically 20% to 60% below traditional department store prices. The company operates 55 stores, primarily in the Northeast and Midwest regions of the United States. The company’s business is seasonal, reflecting increased consumer buying in the fall season. The company’s Boston store is a landmark institution recognized by generations of New England families. The downtown location is famous for a unique marketing concept, the Automatic Markdown plan. Generally, a store’s selling space is on a single level and uses a prototypical racetrack aisle layout for merchandise. A much broader assortment of American and European manufacturers and designers are anticipated for the company’s ready-to-wear areas. Changes have been implemented in logistics and store operations. As a result, the company expects a smoother, more efficient flow of merchandise to the stores. Additionally, the installation of new equipment will make the taking of price changes and re-ticketing of merchandise more accurate, timely and less expensive.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Filene's Basement

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Samuel J. Gerson, CEO W. Jay Carothers, Pres./COO Steven R. Siegel, Exec. VP/CFO Steven R. Siegel, Treas.

Phone: 617-348-7000 Fax: 617-348-7128 Toll-Free: Address: 40 Walnut Street, Wellesley, MA, 02181 Internet Address: www.interstep.com/basement Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $588,539 1998 Sales: $554,321 1997 Sales: $545,025 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: BSMT

1999 Profits: $-9,498 1998 Profits: $-5,760 1997 Profits: $6,466 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 2,920

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $603,750 Second Exec. Salary: $510,677

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Offers fashionable merchandise at prices 20% to 60% below traditional department store prices.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: North Castle Partners Advertising, Inc., Stamford, CT

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

272

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

FINGERHUT COMPANIES INC Industry Group Code: 45411 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 4

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 3

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Catalog Only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Mail Order/Catalog Marketer General merchandise Electronics Housewares Domestics Jewelry

Fingerhut Companies, Inc., one of the largest catalog marketers in the United States, sells general merchandise and financial service products to moderate-income consumers through catalogs, telemarketing, television and other media. Fingerhut Companies, Inc.’s principal subsidiaries are Fingerhut Corporation, Metris Companies, Inc., Figi’s, Inc. and Fingerhut National Bank. Figi’s markets specialty foods and other gifts, primarily through catalogs, while Fingerhut National Bank provides credit for customers’ purchases from Fingerhut in the form of closed-end revolving credit card loans. Metris, an information-based direct marketer of consumer credit products, fee-based services and extended service plans, operates the company’s Financial Services Segment. DirectMerchants Credit Card Bank, National Association and Metris Direct, Inc. form Metris’ subsidiaries. Currently, Fingerhut continues to make use of its extended database, credit programs and proprietary database software to establish a dominant position in its market, with the company’s active list of existing customers accounting for 87% of sales. If you're looking for a career in direct marketing, this is a good place to start. The company is very innovative in its use of advanced databases for tracking customers.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Figi's Inc. Metris Companies, Inc. Fingerhut National Bank Fingerhut Corporation

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Theodore Deikel, CEO Peter G. Michielutti, Exec. VP/COO Andrew V. Johnson, Sr. VP-Mktg. John D. Buck, Sr. VP- Human Resources John D. Buck, Sr. VP-Info. Systems John D. Buck, Sr. VP-Oper. Michael P. Sherman, Sr. VP-Business Dev.

Phone: 612-932-3100 Fax: 612-932-3292 Toll-Free: Address: 4400 Baker Road, Minnetonka, MN, 55343 Internet Address: www.fingerhut.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $1,798,619 1997 Sales: $1,762,865 1996 Sales: $1,814,853 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: FHT

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $69,329 1997 Profits: $40,159 1996 Profits: $50,858 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 9,500

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $686,923 Second Exec. Salary: $500,264

Bonus: $1,154,031 Bonus: $800,000

Aggressively building its customer list/Adding new e-commerce sites.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: United Advertising, Minnetonka, MN

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

273

FINISH LINE INC (THE) Industry Group Code: 4482 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 8

Profits: 3

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Finish Line

5,850

$1,431,843 per store/$244 per sq. ft.

Mall/In-line

365

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Shoes/Accessoreis, Retail Activewear

The Finish Line, Inc. is one of the largest mall based specialty retailers of brand name athletic, outdoor and casual footwear, activewear and accessories in the United States. The company owns 365 stores in 33 states. A Finish Line store generally carries a large selection of men’s, women’s and children’s athletic and casual shoes, as well as a broad assortment of activewear and accessories. Brand names offered by the company include Nike, Adidas, Reebok, Fila, Lugz, Converse, Champion, Nautica, Asics, Airwalk, Logo Athletic, Timberland and New Balance. The company attempts to distinguish itself from other athletic footwear specialty retailers through larger mall-based store formats. The company recently opened stores that averaged approximately 8,100 square feet. The company opened 53 new stores in fiscal 1998, and intends to open 50 to 60 new stores in fiscal 1999. With the exception of four stripcenter stores, all Finish Line stores are located in enclosed shopping malls.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Finish Line & Design The Finish Line

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Alan H. Cohen, CEO Alan H. Cohen, Pres. Steven J. Schneider, VP-Finance/CFO Joseph H. Wood, Sr. VP-Mktg. Donald E. Courtney, Sr. VP-MIS and Dist. Joseph H. Wood, VP-Merch. Michael L. Marchetti, Sr. VP-Store Oper.

Phone: 317-899-1022 Fax: 317-899-0237 Toll-Free: Address: 3308 N. Mitthoeffer Road, Indianapolis, IN, 46236 Internet Address: www.thefinishline.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $522,623 1998 Sales: $138,911 1997 Sales: $332,002 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: FINL

1999 Profits: $20,687 1998 Profits: $26,734 1997 Profits: $18,813 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,830

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $265,500 Second Exec. Salary: $202,400

Bonus: $136,184 Bonus: $69,342

Offers brand name merchandise such as Nike, Fila and Adidas/Typically carries the largest selection of athletic and casual shoes in its trade area.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

274

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

FINLAY ENTERPRISES INC Industry Group Code: 44831 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 3

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Finlay Fine Jewelry New York Jewelry Outlet Sonab

Profits: 4

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

$776 per store (for all stores)

Leased depts. In dept. stores In-line Leased depts.

1109 9 104

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Jewelry, Retail Jewelry departments Factory outlet stores

Finlay Enterprises, Inc. is one of the leading retailers of fine jewelry and the largest operator of leased fine jewelry departments in departments stores thoughout the United States and France. The company operates approximately 1,117 locations. Finlay’s largest host store relationship is with The May Department Stores Company, which includes such stores as Filene’s and Lord & Taylor. Finlay’s second largest host store relationship is with Federated Department Stores, Inc. The company recently entered two additional areas of fine jewelry retailing. Finlay acquired Sonab, a French company that operated 104 French departments in six host store groups throughout France. In doing so, Finlay became the largest operator of departments in France. Additionally, the company signed a lease agreement with Debenhams, P.L.C., a department store chain in the U.K., to operate seven departments. Finlay also opened two factory outlet stores in Ohio and one in Florida. The firm expects to pursue factory outlets as a channel, depending on the success of the three stores. Recent acquisitions include the purchase of the company’s largest competitor, Diamond Park Fine Jewelers, a division of the Zale Corporation. Finlay also entered into a new realtionship with Dayton Hudson by operating the Marshall Field’s stores, renewed relationships with Mercantile Stores and expanded relationships with Proffitts. Like competitor Zales, this is one of only a handful of major corporations in the jewelry business. This company is unique in that it operates in leased space within department stores, rather than operating free-standing stores like Zales does.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Finlay Fine Jewelry Corporation New York Jewelry Outlet Diamond Park Fine Jewelers The Finlay Triangle

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Arthur E. Reiner, Pres./CEO Joseph M. Melvin, Exec. VP/COO Barry D. Scheckner, Sr. VP/CFO

Phone: 212-382-7473 Fax: 212-557-3848 Toll-Free: Address: 521 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY, 10175 Internet Address: www.FNLY.COM Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $863,428 1998 Sales: $769,862 1997 Sales: $685,274 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: FNLY

1999 Profits: $9,099 1998 Profits: $15,195 1997 Profits: $11,757 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 8,700

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $750,000 Second Exec. Salary: $600,000

Bonus: $271,425 Bonus: $137,300

Largest operator of licensed fine jewelry departments in department stores in the U.S. and France/Offers a broad selection.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

275

FIRST CASH INC Industry Group Code: 4400 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 10

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 7

Annual Sales Per Store:

American Loan & Jewelry/Famous Pawn Famous Pawn, Inc. JB Pawn, Inc. Miraglia, Inc. Capital Pawnbrokers, Inc. Silver Hill Pawn, Inc.

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Free-standing/In-line

92 (for all stores)

Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Pawn Shops Check cashing Money order sales Wire transfers Payday advances Software

First Cash, Inc. is a publicly traded pawnshop operator engaged in both consumer finance and retail sales activities. The company currently operates 92 pawnshops in six states. First Cash also owns 15 check-cashing facilities in California and Washington. The check cashing stores provide a broad range of consumer financial services, including check cashing, money order sales, wire transfers and short-term unsecured advances (payday advances). The company also owns a software company in California which provides computer hardware and software to third party check cashing operators, as well as ongoing technical support. First Cash’s primary business plan is to continue a growth strategy of expansion through selective acquisitions and new store openings and to enhance operating efficiencies and productivity at both newly acquired and existing pawn and check cashing stores. In addition to expansion in its current markets, First Cash plans to enter other markets in other states with favorable demographics and regulatory environments. The company’s secondary business strategy is two-fold: (1) to enhance productivity of existing stores by increasing customer traffic through improved merchandising techniques, a unique exterior store appearance, and (2) to establish clusters of several stores in a specific geographic region in order to achieve certain economies of scale relative to supervision, purchasing and marketing.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: American Loan & Jewelry, Inc. Famous Pawn, Inc. JB Pawn, Inc. Miraglia, Inc. Capital Pawnbrokers, Inc. Silver Hill Pawn, Inc. Elegant Floors, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Phillip E. Powell, CEO Rick L. Wessel, Pres. Rick L. Wessel, CFO Rick L. Wessel, Treas.

Phone: 817-460-3947 Fax: 817-461-7019 Toll-Free: Address: 690 East Lamar Blvd., Suite 400, Arlington, TX, 76011 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $59,004 1997 Sales: $49,431 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: PAWN

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $3,798 1997 Profits: $2,294 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

750

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $235,000 Second Exec. Salary: $135,000

Bonus: $75,000 Bonus: $50,000

Third largest publicly traded pawnshop operator in the U.S.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

276

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

FIRST DATA CORP Industry Group Code: 5223B Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Support Services

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Non-cash Payment Transaction Services Card issuer and information services Merchant processing services Payment instruments Investor services

First Data Corporation is a provider of high-quality, highvolume information processing and related services for many market sectors. The company focuses on its services related to payment transactions, including transaction card issuer services, processing services related to payment instruments, merchant card and check processing services. In this area, the company is currently emphasizing growth in electronic commerce, information management and international opportunities. Recently, FDC established and enhanced several key relationships, including the signing of an agreement to provide bank card processing for Banc One following its announced acquisition of First USA. The company also recently announced the formation of MSFDC, a joint venture with Microsoft Corporation witch plans to introduce services that enable companies to conduct Internet billing services and payment receiving services. Additionally, FDC acquired a 50% interest in CardService International, a company that provides electronic transaction across the United States. FDC recently also established the acquisition of Orlandi Valtua Companies, a provider to Mexico of several money transfer services. FDC plans to continue to build and strengthen corporate relationships and complete several more small acquisitions in the near future. FDC invests heavily in systems development and training to keep clients technologically current. It makes a conscious effort to promote from within.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: InfiStar Corporation First Data Merchant Services Corporation First Data Investor Services Group Gaming Services Unit International Banking Technologies First Data Information Group RRE Investors

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Henry C. Duques, CEO Charles T. Fote, COO/Pres. Lee Adrean, CFO/Exec. VP

Phone: 201-525-4700 Fax: 770-857-0404 Toll-Free: 800-762-0179 Address: 401 Hackensack Avenue, Hackensack, NJ, 07601 Internet Address: www.firstdatacorp.com Notes/Other Info: *First Data Services

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $5,234,500 1997 Sales: $4,938,100 1996 Sales: $4,186,200 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: FDC

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $356,700 1997 Profits: $636,500 1996 Profits: $346,800 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 32,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $800,000 Second Exec. Salary: $611,138

Bonus: $ Bonus: $200,000

First Data Corporation is a leader in payment transaction services.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

277

FLANIGAN'S ENTERPRISES INC Industry Group Code: 4453 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Big Daddy's Liquors Flanigan's Seafood Bar & Grill Flanigan's Café Flanigan's Lounge

3,000-5,100 200/5000 3000 10,000

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

In-line Free-standing Free-standing Free-standing

17 2 1 1

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Liquor Stores Restaurants Lounges Entertainment clubs

Flanigan’s Enterprises, Inc. owns and/or operates restaurants with lounges, packaged liquor stores and entertainment-oriented clubs. The company’s packaged liquor stores are operated under the “Big Daddy’s Liquors” servicemark, and the company’s restaurants are operated under the “Flanigan’s Seafood Bar and Grill” servicemark. Recent business developments include entering into a joint venture as general partner and fifty percent owner of a limited partnership, with the responsibility to renovate and operate a restaurant in the Best Western Airport Miami Inn under its Flanigan’s Seafood Bar and Grill servicemark. Another joint venture resulted in the opening of restaurants in Surfside, FL and Kendall, FL. Flanigan’s recently closed the last three of its Big Daddy's Lounges operations, and sold the lease and liquor license of its club King of Prussia, PA, to Dick Clark Restaurants, Inc.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Flanigan's Big Daddy's Flanigan's Seafood Bar and Grill Big Daddy's Lounges Big Daddy's Liquors Flanigan's Management Services, Inc. Flanigan's Enterprises Inc. of Georgia Seventh Street Corp.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Joseph G. Flanigan, CEO Joseph G. Flanigan, Pres. Edward A. Doxey, CFO

Phone: 954-974-9003 Fax: 954-974-2940 Toll-Free: Address: 2841 West Cypress Creek Road, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33309-1705 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $21,767 1997 Sales: $20,320 1996 Sales: $20,184 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: BDL

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $1,388 1997 Profits: $1,093 1996 Profits: $ 786 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

316

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $266,000 Second Exec. Salary: $116,000

Bonus: $38,000 Bonus: $

Has redirected focus from lounges to its restaurants and retail liquor stores.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

278

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

FLEMING COMPANIES INC Industry Group Code: 4451 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 5

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Baker's Rainbow Foods SuPeRSaVeR Sentry Foods Market Basket Jubilee Foods

23,000-58,000 23,000-58,000 23,000-58,000 23,000-58,000 23,000-58,000 23,000-58,000

Profits: 37

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line

300 41 23 13 4 25

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Grocery Stores/Supermarkets, Retail Food and general merchandise distribution Retail consulting services

Established in 1915, Fleming Companies, Inc. is a prominently recognized leader in the food marketing and distributions industry. Its Food Distribution Segment conducts one of the largest food distributions in the United States, Fleming’s food distribution business. This segment served as the principal source of supply for over 3,000 supermarkets in fiscal 1997, including those establishments owned by Fleming, which accounts for approximately 10% of all supermarkets in the United States. Fleming’s distribution operations are conducted though a network of 35 full-line food product supply centers, six general merchandise centers housing products including health and beauty care products and two centers focused primarily on convenience stores. The company’s Retail Food Segment owns 14 local chains and groups operating under separate banners. Based on net sales, the Retail Food Segment is one of the United States’ major food retailers. Fleming is currently focusing on achieving earnings growth in both aspects of its business. Included in this plan are the increasing of sales efforts, the streamlining and strengthening of Fleming brands and its offerings of retail services and the broadening of perishables and foodservices offerings.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Baker's Rainbow Foods Sentry Foods SuPeRSaVer Jubilee Foods Thompson Food Basket Boogaarts Food Stores Consumers Food & Drug

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Mark S. Hansen, CEO William J. Dowd, Pres./COO H.L. Winn Jr., Exec. VP/CFO Thomas L. Zaricki, Sr. VP-Retail Oper. E. Stephen Davis, Exec.VP-Food Dist.

Phone: 405-840-7200 Fax: 405-840-7702 Toll-Free: Address: 6301 Waterford Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK, 73126 Internet Address: www.fleming.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $15,069,335 1997 Sales: $15,372,666 1996 Sales: $16,486,739 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: FLM

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-510,595 1997 Profits: $25,392 1996 Profits: $26,686 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 38,900

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $491,923 Second Exec. Salary: $344,712

Bonus: $684,612 Bonus: $451,654

One of the largest food distribution and marketing companies in the U.S./Operates approximately 370 company-owned retail stores.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Fleming Retail Advertising Services, Oklahoma City, OK

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

279

FLORAFAX INTERNATIONAL INC Industry Group Code: 52252A Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 6

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 2

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Flower order processing only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Floral Order Services Payment processing

Florafax International, Inc. is principally engaged in the flowers-by-wire business of generating floral orders and providing floral order placement services to retail florists throughout the United States. Floral orders between florists are transacted primarily by telephone or by the company’s order allocation system. The company’s order allocation system has the ability to distribute orders ratably to Florafax member florists. During the past several years, the company has been generating a significant portion of floral orders through its wholly owned subsidiary, The Flower Club. The Flower Club has arrangements with numerous nationally recognized companies that allow The Flower Club to generate orders by marketing directly to the customers of these companies. Florists and their advertisements are listed in the Florafax Directory, which is published and distributed several times a year. The flowers-by-wire business is seasonal in that its member florists send a much higher volume of orders during Thanksgiving, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Easter and Mother’s Day. Through its wholly owned subsidiary, Credit Card Management System, Inc., the company makes available to its members an electronic credit card and charge card processing system, FloraCash. The company recently merged with Gerald Stevens, Inc., a leading, privately held retailer of flowers, floral-related merchandise and gifts. Upon completion of the merger, the name Florafax International changed to Gerald Stevens, Inc.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: The Flower Club Credit Card Management System, Inc. FloraCash Marketing Projects, Inc. Gerald Stevens, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Andrew W. Williams, CEO James H. West, Pres./COO James H. West, CFO Kelly S. McMakin, Treas.

Phone: 561-563-0263 Fax: 561-563-0343 Toll-Free: 800-967-6715 Address: 8075 20th Street, Vero Beach, FL, 32966 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $13,400 1997 Sales: $11,600 1996 Sales: $10,300 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: FIIF

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $1,800 1997 Profits: $3,400 1996 Profits: $10,300 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

194

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $183,700 Second Exec. Salary: $105,241

Bonus: $80,000 Bonus: $67,500

Order allocation system is the only system in the industry capable of distributing orders equitably to member florists.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Cranford Johnson Robinson Woods, Little Rock, AR; Florafax Agency, Vero Beach, FL

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

280

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

FLORSHEIM GROUP INC Industry Group Code: 4482 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 6

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 9

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Florsheim

Number of Stores:

Mall

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Men's shoes-manufacturing Men's shoes-retailing

Florsheim Group, Inc., a traditionally dressy, middle-toupper-priced men’s quality footwear retailer, is currently extending its product offerings and diversifying its image. The company’s core brands have expanded to include the classic Imperial line, the versatile Florsheim line, Comfortech, aimed for business and casual footwear, FLS, a brand featuring lower price points, and @ease, a younger, fresher dress-casual and casual brand. The company is additionally offering designer Joseph Abboud footwear, and is also offering John Deere branded work boots. Florsheim Golf lines offer a variety of high-end golfing footwear, including MagneForce golf shoes, which feature magnetic technology. Though 1998 was a slightly disappointing year for the company due to revenue reduction through the closing of underperforming stores, 1999 has proven to be a year full of forward movement and healthy business for the company. The company, focusing on cost reduction, recently completed the total restructuring of its information systems. Its Cape Girardeau, Missouri manufacturing facility increased its production by 35% recently, creating further cost efficiencies. In early 1999, Florsheim’s wholesale division experienced a 70% order increase from the previous fiscal year.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Florsheim Frogs Imperial Comfortech FLS @ease Joseph Abboud John Deere Florsheim Golf

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Charles J. Campbell, CEO, Pres. L. David Sanguinetti, COO, Pres-Retail Div. Gregory J. Van Gasse, SVP-Sales, Mktg. John Diebold, Human Resources Thomas W. Joseph, VP, Pres.-Int'l Div.

Phone: 312-559-2500 Fax: 312-559-7470 Toll-Free: Address: 130 South Canal Street, Chicago, IL, 60606 Internet Address: http://www.florsheim.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $244,895 1998 Sales: $253,056 1997 Sales: $244,855 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: FLSC

1999 Profits: $- 559 1998 Profits: $-1,435 1997 Profits: $1,964 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 2,129

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $280,400 Second Exec. Salary: $150,000

Bonus: $111,599 Bonus: $29,850

Largest U.S. retailer of men's quality dress footwear/Leading provider of men's dress shoes in the $60 and above U.S. market.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: J. Walter Thompson, U.S.A., inc., Chicago, IL

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

281

FOOD LION INC Industry Group Code: 4451 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 10

Profits: 9

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Food Lion Kash n' Karry

38,000 46,000

$8,466,838 per store

Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line

1,207 (for all stores)

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Grocery Stores/Supermarkets, Retail

Food Lion, Inc. engages in the operation of retail food supermarkets principally in the southeastern United States. The company's stores are operated under the names of Food Lion and Kash n' Karry. Food Lion, Inc. operates 1,157 supermarkets and eight distribution centers in 11 southeastern and mid-Atlantic states. The company and its subsidiary, Kash n' Karry, serve more than 10 million customers per week. Food Lion is the largest private employer in both North Carolina and Virginia. The company recently completed its integration of the 100-store Kash n' Karry supermarket chain, as well as acquired 11 A&P stores to complement Food Lion's existing sites in the key markets in of North and South Carolina. The company divests its 61 stores in the Southwest markets of Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas. Food Lion participates in a number of programs that benefit children. Through the efforts of employees, vendors and customers, Food Lion raised $693,000 for the Children's Miracle Netowrk, a network of 160 hospitals that helps more than 5 million children each year. The company also sponsors a Stay in School program, whereby employees and high school counselors work together to identify students who are at-risk of dropping out of school and then offering them part-time jobs. The students must sign an agreement with their counselors and Food Lion stating they will attend school regularly and perform satisfactorily on the job. Benefit plans are top notch here. Employees at the store manager level and above receive stock options and cash bonuses. Qualified employees at all levels receive a 2% of wages cash bonus each year, and may qualify for a 2% sick-leave bonus.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Food Lion Kash N Karry Food Fair

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Tom E. Smith, Pres./CEO Joseph C. Hall, COO Laura C. Kendall, VP-Finance/CFO Jay J. Abraham, VP-Mktg. Darrell Johnson, VP-Human Resources A. Edward Benner, Jr., VP- Info. Tech./CIO Pamela K. Kohn, Sr. VP-Merch. Joseph C. Hall, VP-Oper.

Phone: 704-633-8250 Fax: 704-636-5024 Toll-Free: Address: P.O. Box 1330, Salisbury, NC, 28145 Internet Address: www.foodlion.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $10,219,474 1998 Sales: $10,194,385 1997 Sales: $9,055,932 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: FDLNB

1999 Profits: $272,585 1998 Profits: $172,250 1997 Profits: $215,220 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 32,991

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $973,901 Second Exec. Salary: $441,577

Bonus: $414,186 Bonus: $166,845

Highly competitive prices/High-efficiency stores and distribution/Excellent human resources.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 11 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Ogilvy & Mather, Atlanta, GA

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

282

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

FOODARAMA SUPERMARKETS, INC. Industry Group Code: 4451 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 26

Profits: 29

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

ShopRite

57,000

$35,800,000 per store/$832 per sq. ft.

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores: 25

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Grocery Stores/Supermarkets, Retail Liquor stores Garden centers Food processing

Formed in 1958, Foodarama Supermarkets, Inc. operates a chain of 21 supermarkets located in central New Jersey, as well as two liquor stores and two garden centers, all licensed as ShopRite. The company additionally operates a central food processing facility, which supplies its stores with various meats, prepared salads, prepared food and other items. Foodarama Supermarkets, Inc., providing its stores with bakery products, also owns a central baking facility. The company is a member of Wakefern Food Corporation, the largest retailer-owned food cooperative warehouse in the United States and owner of the ShopRite name. Foodarama Supermarkets, Inc. focuses on incorporating the world class supermarket concept into its stores, which consists of the idea of significantly larger than usual supermarkets paired with several exemplary features. Fresh fish on ice, prime meatservice butcher departments, in-store bakeries, displaying and retailing of international foods, salad bars, snack bars, bulk foods and pharmacies are featured. Through extensive recent renovations, the company has additionally integrated several of these aspects into its conventionally sized supermarkets as well as the world class locations. These stores are considered mini-world-class supermarkets. Currently, 15 of the company’s stores are world class, four are mini-world class and two are conventional supermarkets, which the company plans to upgrade in the near future.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Foodarama ShopRite Wakefern Food Corporation

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Joseph J. Saker, Pres./CEO Richard J. Saker, COO Michael Shapiro, CFO/Sr. VP Carl L. Montanaro, Sr. VP-Sales Robert V. Spires, Sr. VP-Human Resources and Labor Relations Carl L. Montanaro, Sr. VP- Merch. Richard J. Saker, Exec. VP-Oper. Michael Shapiro, Treas.

Phone: 732-462-4700 Fax: 732-294-2347 Toll-Free: Address: 922 Hwy. 33, Bldg. 6, Ste 1, Freehold, NJ, 07728 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $697,358 1997 Sales: $636,731 1996 Sales: $601,143 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: FSM

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $1,780 1997 Profits: $1,064 1996 Profits: $1,396 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 4,550

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $330,000 Second Exec. Salary: $325,000

Bonus: $45,109 Bonus: $44,426

Features world class supermarkets with special offerings.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Gianettino & Meredith Advertising, Short Hills, NJ

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

283

FOOTSTAR INC Industry Group Code: 4482 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 3

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Footaction Meldisco

4,000-6,500 2,900-3,600

Profits: 2

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Mall Leased departments

572 2,536

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Shoes/Accessories, Retail Athletic shoes

Footstar, Inc. is principally a specialty retailer conducting business in the branded athletic footwear and apparel and discount footwear segments through its Footaction and Meldisco businesses. Footaction is a leading mall-based specialty retailer of branded athletic footwear, apparel and related accessories that operates 550 stores in 45 states and the Caribbean region. This division recently opened 82 new stores, including 49 stores converted from the discontinued Thom McAn business, and remodeled, relocated or expanded 52 stores. Footaction has created a preferred customer card, called the Star Card, which is designed to build a marketing database that enables the division to communicate directly with customers and gain more information about their buying habits. Star Card members receive customized birthday greetings, selected vendor mailings and Footaction Star magazine. A new feature was added with the introduction of a website at www.footaction.com, allowing customers to view the latest in athletic footwear and apparel. Meldisco is the leading operator of leased footwear departments in the United States, operating leased footwear departments in 2,136 Kmart department stores, 400 PayLess Drug Stores and Thrifty Drug Stores, and 14 Tesco department stores located in the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Hungary. Footstar very recently announced a restructuring plan designed to increase profitability.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Meldisco Footaction Melville Corporation

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. J. M. Robinson, CEO J. M. Robinson, Pres. Carlos E. Alberini, Sr. VP/CFO Robert D. Ravener, Jr., VP/Chief Personnel Officer Maureen Richards, VP/General Counsel/Corp. Sec.

Phone: 201-934-2000 Fax: 201-934-6761 Toll-Free: Address: 933 MacArthur Blvd., Mahwah, NJ, 07430 Internet Address: www.footaction.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $1,829,100 1998 Sales: $1,794,900 1997 Sales: $1,672,300 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: FTS

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $33,500 1997 Profits: $80,000 1996 Profits: $18,300 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 14,979

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $688,500 Second Exec. Salary: $355,500

Bonus: $248,500 Bonus: $102,240

Largest operator of leased footwear departments/Third largest retailer of discount footwear in the United States.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

284

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

FRANKLIN COVEY CO Industry Group Code: 51113 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Profits: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Franklin Covey

2,000

$2,865,266 per store/$1,432 per sq. ft.

Mall

120

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Organization/Accessories, Retail Planning aids Calendars Seminars Motivational products

Franklin Covey provides consulting services, seminars and workshops, educational materials, publications and products designed to empower individuals and organizations to become more effective. The company also provides training, consulting services and products designed to improve written and oral business communication skills, as well as book and commercial printing services. To facilitate implementation of the principles it teaches, the company produces and markets its primary product, the Franklin Planner. Franklin Covey currently operates 125 domestic retail stores located in 36 states and the District of Columbia. The company also provides products, training, and printing services internationally through company-owned and licensed operations in Australia, Belgium, Canada, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand and the United Kingdom for more than 30 countries. Franklin Covey markets its products and training services to more than 75 countries through licensee and copyright agreements. The company periodically mails catalogs to its clients, including a reference catalog, holiday catalog, catalogs timed to coincide with planner renewals and catalogs related to special events, such as store openings or new product offerings. Franklin Covey has a client service department which clients may call toll-free, 24 hours a day, Monday through Saturday, to inquire about a product or place an order. 3Com Corporation and Franklin Covey recently announced that they will work together to deliver corporate training courses based on the industry-leading Palm Computing platform and Franklin Covey’s popular time and life planning concepts.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Franklin Quest Consulting Group Franklin Quest Institute of Fitness Franklin Day Planner Franklin TimeQuest The Franklin System 3Com Corporation

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Hyrum W. Smith, CEO Jon H. Rowberry, Pres./COO John L. Theler, Exec. VP/CFO Stephen M. R. Covey, Exec. VP-Mktg. and Innovation

Phone: 801-817-1776 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 2200 W. Parkway Blvd., Salt Lake City, UT, 841192331 Internet Address: www.franklincovey.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $546,612 1997 Sales: $433,272 1996 Sales: $332,006 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: FC

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $40,058 1997 Profits: $38,865 1996 Profits: $34,239 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 4,247

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $263,738 Second Exec. Salary: $211,456

Bonus: $350,000 Bonus: $350,000

Product name recognition/Trains employees in the Franklin System.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

285

FRED MEYER INC Industry Group Code: 4521 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 7

Profits: 10

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Fred Meyer-Multidepartment w/food Fox's Littman/Barclay Jewelers Merksamer Jewelers Food 4 Less Foods Co. Smith's Food & Drug Centers/Smitty's PriceRite QFC Ralphs

143,500

Free-standing/In-line Mall

118 284

52,400 64,900

Free-standing Free-standing

87 176

34,100 36,900

Free-standing Free-standing

86 294

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Department Stores, Retail Jewelry stores Food stores

Fred Meyer, Inc. is one of the largest domestic food retailers, operating more than 800 supermarkets and multi-department stores. The company recently acquired Smith’s Food & Drug Centers, Inc. in a merger, and Quality Food Centers, Inc. and Food 4 Less Holdings, Inc. in two separate mergers. In the Pacific Northwest, Southwest and intermountain states, the company operates multi-department stores under the Fred Meyer banner and food and drug combination stores under the Smith’s Food & Drug Centers banner. In southern California, the company operates conventional supermarkets under the Ralphs and Hughes Family Markets banners and price-impact warehouse supermarkets under the Food 4 Less banner. In Seattle, the company also operates premium supermarkets under the Quality Food Centers banner. Fred Meyer, Inc. and The Kroger Company recently completed a strategic merger with Fred Meyer that has created the nation’s largest supermarket company. The combination has the broadest geographic coverage and widest spectrum of formats in the food retailing industry, ranging from multidepartment stores to convenience stores. The combined company will be named The Kroger Company and headquartered in Cincinnati. It will benefit from substantial economies of scale and increased purchasing power. Total projected revenues will be $43 billion yearly.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Fred Meyer Smith's Food & Drug Centers, Inc. Quality Food Centers, Inc. Food 4 Less Holdings, Inc. Kroger Company (The)

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Robert G. Miller, CEO Robert G. Miller, Pres. David R. Jessick, Sr. VP/CFO

Phone: 503-232-8844 Fax: 503-797-5609 Toll-Free: 1-800-858-9202 Address: 3800 S.E. 22nd Avenue, Portland, OR, 97202 Internet Address: www.fredmeyer.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $14,878,771 1998 Sales: $7,359,202 1997 Sales: $4,530,120 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: FMY

1999 Profits: $55,172 1998 Profits: $143,311 1997 Profits: $83,963 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 92,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $731,923 Second Exec. Salary: $301,154

Bonus: $274,377 Bonus: $103,021

Some of its stores offer one-stop shopping/Dominant retailer in one of the fastest growing areas of the country.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: CB&S Advertising, Portland, OR

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

286

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

FRED'S INC Industry Group Code: 45291 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 11

Profits: 9

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Fred's

13,900

$2,123,328 per store/$152 sq. ft.

In-line/Free-standing

216 owned/32 franchised

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Discount Stores, Retail Drug stores

Fred’s, Inc. operates approximately 216 discount general merchandise and Xpress pharmacy stores in 10 states. The company’s stores generally serve low, middle and fixed income families located in small and medium sized towns. While 87 of the company’s stores have full-service pharmacies, Fred's also has five stand-alone Fred’s Xpress pharmacies. Company goods and services are marketed to 32 franchised Fred’s stores. The company’s strategy is to meet the general merchandise and pharmacy needs of the small to medium sized towns it serves by offering a wider variety of quality merchandise and a more attractive price-to-value relationship than either drug stores or smaller variety/dollar stores. The company also offers a shopper-friendly format which is more convenient than larger sized discount merchandise stores.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Fred's Fred's Xpress Fred's Super Dollar Store Southern Wholesale Company CVS Revco D.S., Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Michael J. Hayes, Pres./CEO Edwin C. Boothe, Exec. VP/COO Richard B. Witaszak, Exec. VP/CFO D. Keith Curtis, Sr. VP-Merch. John A. Casey, Exec. VP-Store and Pharmacy Oper.

Phone: 901-365-8880 Fax: 901-365-8865 Toll-Free: Address: 4300 New Getwell Road, Memphis, TN, 38118 Internet Address: www.fredsinc.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $600,900 1998 Sales: $492,200 1997 Sales: $418,297 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $410,086

Stock Ticker: FRED

1999 Profits: $8,800 1998 Profits: $9,800 1997 Profits: $5,806 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $2,733

Employees: 5,400

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $180,000 Second Exec. Salary: $120,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Practices a competitive pricing program/Locations in 10 states.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: GVA Productions, Charlotte, NC

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

287

FRIEDMAN'S INC Industry Group Code: 44831 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 5

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 5

Annual Sales Per Store:

Friedman's Jewelers Regency Jewelers

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

In-line /Mall In-line /Mall

432 37

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Jewelry, Retail Credit programs Collections

Friedman’s, Inc. is a specialty retailer of fine jewelry, operating approximately 469 stores located primarily in 22 southern states. The company positions itself as The Value Leader of specialty retail fine jewelry by offering competitive prices, a broad merchandise selection and a high level of customer service that appeals to its target customers of low to middle income consumers aged 18 to 45 years old. Friedman’s real estate strategy focuses on opening new stores in power strip locations in small cities and towns. The company’s strategy typically expands from existing markets into contiguous new markets and attempts to concentrate its stores within a market in order to leverage advertising and supervisory costs. The centers are typically anchored by a major discounter such as Wal-Mart Inc., or K-Mart Corporation whose target customers are similar to those of Friedman’s. The company stores operate under the direction of a store partner, demonstrating part of the company’s philosophy that each store be operated as an independent business. Friedman's plans to continue store expansion, focusing primarily on power strip centers with selective expansion into regional malls. The company plans to change all of the Regency Jewelers stores to Friedman's Jewelers stores in the near future.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Friedman's Jewelry Regency Jewelry The Value Leader

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Bradley J. Stinn, CEO Bradley J. Stinn, Pres. Victor M. Suglia, Sr. VP/CFO Donald J. Wright, Jr., VP-Merch. Victor M. Suglia, Treas.

Phone: 912-233-9333 Fax: 912-238-4873 Toll-Free: 1-888-JEWEL Address: 4 West State Street, Savannah, GA, 31401 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $287,300 1997 Sales: $237,300 1996 Sales: $192,200 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: FRDM

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $11,200 1997 Profits: $19,300 1996 Profits: $13,800 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 3,071

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $400,000 Second Exec. Salary: $337,500

Bonus: $ Bonus: $50,000

Offers competitive prices and a broad merchandise selection.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

288

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

FUNCO INC Industry Group Code: 45112B Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Profits: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

FuncoLand

100-2900

$653,264 per store

In-line

188

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Interactive Entertainment, Retail Video game magazine Mail order Interactive game accessories Video games

Funco, Inc., through its subsidiaries, Funcoland stores, is a leading national specialty retailer of new and previously played interactive entertainment. The company’s products include a wide selection of video games, related hardware and accessories, with each store offering approximately 4,000 different game titles. Approximately one-half of Funco’s sales are from previously played merchandise that is sold at an average of half the price for which the products were originally sold. The company operates 188 retail stores in 12 major metropolitan areas. Funco also publishes Game Informer, a video game magazine with more than 160,000 paid subscribers, and has a mail order operation to complement its sales. Funco is planning to open several new markets and hopes to operate approximately 225 stores. The company’s primary goal is to strengthen its position as a leading provider of new and used video games.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Game Informer Sunrise Publications, Inc. FuncoLand Bring Home the Fun Funco Experience the Fun at FuncoLand FuncoLand National Video Game Championship FuncoLand Fun Club

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. David R. Pomije, CEO Stanley A. Bodine, Pres./COO Robert M. Hiben, CFO Jeffrey R. Gatesmith, VP-Human Resources Jeffrey R. Gatesmith, VP-Retail Oper.

Phone: 612-946-8883 Fax: 612-946-7250 Toll-Free: Address: 10120 West 76th Street, Edaen Prairie, MN, 55344 Internet Address: www.funcoland.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $206,700 1998 Sales: $163,316 1997 Sales: $120,555 1996 Sales: $81,382 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: FNCO

1999 Profits: $9,700 1998 Profits: $8,270 1997 Profits: $5,350 1996 Profits: $ 205 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,445

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $200,000 Second Exec. Salary: $168,000

Bonus: $120,000 Bonus: $100,800

Stores offer approximately 3,000 different game titles.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

289

GADZOOKS INC Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 37

Profits: 25

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Gadzooks

2300

$656,791 per store/$285 per sq. ft.

Mall

317

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel Stores, Retail

Gadzooks, Inc. is a rapidly growing mall-based specialty retailer of casual apparel and related accessories for young men and women, principally between the ages of 13 and 19. The company currently operates 317 stores in both metropolitan and middle markets in 32 states throughout the southwest, midwest, southeast, midatlantic and northeast regions of the United States. Gadzooks’ expansion strategy is to continue to open stores in enclosed shopping malls in its existing metropolitan and middle markets, and to continue developing the northeastern market where it made its initial entry. In general, the company will open the highest number of stores in new markets where the company’s concept has recently been introduced and where the company believes that it can capitalize on the potential of these markets. Gadzooks typically expands from existing markets into contiguous new markets and attempts to cluster its stores within a market area in order to achieve management and operating efficiencies and to enhance its name recognition. A key component of the company’s merchandising strategy is to reduce its dependence on any one fashion, style, brand or item by offering products in a broad range of categories. Gadzooks stores are visually appealing and provide a fun and enjoyable shopping experience for its young customers

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES:

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Gerald R. Szczepanski, CEO Gerald R. Szczepanski, Pres. Monty R. Standifer, Sr. VP/CFO Stephen R. Puterbaugh, VP-Human Resources Loretta S. Falkner, Sr. VP/General Merch. Mgr. James F. Wimpress, Jr., Sr. VP-Store Oper. Monty R. Standifer, Treas.

Phone: 972-307-5555 Fax: 972-662-4290 Toll-Free: Address: 4121 International Parkway, Carrollton, TX, 75007 Internet Address: www.gadzooks.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $208,200 1998 Sales: $171,600 1997 Sales: $128,400 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: GADZ

1999 Profits: $ 400 1998 Profits: $8,300 1997 Profits: $8,000 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 3,272

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $400,000 Second Exec. Salary: $220,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Has an adopt-a-store program, in which every person in the home office adopts a store that he or she watches closely.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

290

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

GALLERY OF HISTORY INC Industry Group Code: 45112 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 9

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 7

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Online Catalogs Stores

Number of Stores: 2

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Historical Items

Established in 1981, The Gallery of History, Inc. markets historical documents such as letters, documents and signatures of presidents and other governmental and political figures, significant physicians, inventors, Nobel prize winners, explorers, aviators, scientists, entertainers, authors, artists, musicians, composers, clergymen, judges, lawyers, military figures and well known sports figures, among others. Though a significant number of the documents contain signatures from persons now living, especially from entertainment and sports arenas, the majority of the documents are from persons now deceased. The Gallery of History, Inc. currently holds an inventory of over 177,000 documents, which are largely sold through auctions and the company’s headquarters locations to other dealers and collectors. The company targets persons who appreciate or collect antiques, paintings, lithographs and other works of art or collectibles, but that might not have thought of collecting documents. The documents owned by The Gallery of History that are for sale are chosen by the company’s retail operations and then attractively framed and occasionally placed with related memorabilia or literature. Documents sold through the auction operation are generally sold in a raw, unframed state. All documents are preserved using museum-quality materials and techniques. The company recently opened a new division, Gallery of History Direct, dedicated to the issuance of a bimonthly gallery catalog.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Gallery of History

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Todd M. Axelrod, CEO Todd M. Axelrod, Pres. Rod R. Lynam, CFO Rod R. Lynam, Treas.

Phone: 702-364-1000 Fax: 702-364-0855 Toll-Free: Address: 3601 W. Sahara Ave., Las Vegas, NV, 89102-5822 Internet Address: www.galleryofhistory.com, www.historyforsale.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $2,800 1997 Sales: $3,000 1996 Sales: $2,100 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: HIST

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $ 100 1997 Profits: $ 500 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

15

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $132,500 Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $25,000 Bonus: $

Offers valuable, museum-quality historical documents.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

291

GANTOS INC Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 38

Profits: 44

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Gantos

7,800

$1,340,000 per store/$191 per sq. ft. (all stores)

Mall

115

Bargain Boutiques

10,000-18,000

Free-standing/In-line

4

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel-Women's, Retail

Gantos is a specialty retailer of a full range of quality, fashionable women's apparel and accessories at moderate to upper moderate prices. The company operates 115 stores in 23 states, located primarily in suburban malls in the West, Midwest and Northeast. The company offers an edited selection of private label and name brand sportswear, career dresses and suits, social occasion dresses, accessories, outerwear, swimwear and, in selected stores, shoes. The company's marketing strategy emphasizes quality merchandise with assortments from which women can build entire wardrobes, personal attention and customer service. It is targeted to satisfying the apparel needs of active, educated, career-oriented, fashion-conscious women, primarily from 35 to late 50 years of age. The company's four Bargain Boutiques located in Illinois and Michigan feature final clearance merchandise, both from Gantos stores and purchased directly for the boutiques. The company's stores are primarily located in enclosed regional malls which contain at least one traditional upscale department store frequented by the company's target customers. A few stores are located in major urban office-shopping centers which are typically located near at least one such department store. Merchandise is attractively arranged by department classifications, rather than vendor, and is displayed in coordinated groups on fixtures designed to allow the customer easy access to purchase complete outfits.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Gantos Bargain Boutiques

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Arlene H. Stern, CEO Arlene H. Stern, Pres. David Nelson, VP-Finance/CFO Dennis Horstman, Sr. VP-Mktg. Hope Grey, VP-Tech. Product Mgmt. Dennis Horstman, Sr. VP-Merch. Joseph Giudice, Sr. VP-Oper. Vicki Boudreaux, VP-Planning and Allocation David Nelson, Treas. Neal Gottfried, Sr. VP-Store Oper. and Visual Merch. Joseph Giudice, Sr. VP-Merch. Planning

Phone: 203-358-0294 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 3260 Patterson, S.E., Grand Rapids, MI, 49512 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $149,600 1998 Sales: $162,000 1997 Sales: $184,400 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: GTOS

1999 Profits: $-12,800 1998 Profits: $-9,800 1997 Profits: $2,300 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,949

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $ Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Merchandise is specifically targeted to women between 30 and 50 years of age.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 6 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

292

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

GAP INC Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 51

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Gap Baby Gap Old Navy Clothing Co. Banana Republic

7,100 4,300 15,300 7,000

Profits: 2

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Mall/In-line Mall/In-line Mall/In-line Mall/In-line

1109 640 407 292

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel Stores, Retail Women's, men's and children's apparel Shoes Acccessories

The Gap, Inc. is an international specialty retailer which operates stores selling casual apparel, personal care and other accessories for men, women and children under a variety of brands including Gap, GapKids, BabyGap, Banana Republic and Old Navy. All Gap clothing is private label, designed by the company and made specifically for the Gap. The company currently operates 2,143 stores in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany and Japan. The company increased its store count by 278 stores in the last year, including 41 international locations. New developments for the company include the possibility of store label credit cards and the first release of a Banana Republic catalog. Other ideas being tested are the Gap-to-go delivery concept and GapBody intimate apparel stores. The Gap has also signed a wholesaling agreement under which Gap products will be sold in stores in Hong Kong, Guam, Singapore, Australia and New Zealand. The Gap makes it a priority to address environmental, work safety, and employment issues. The company encourages its employees to become actively involved in their communities. The Community Action Program matches headquarters employee interests with the needs of non-profit organizations. Gap Foundation sponsors a number of children's educational and advocacy groups, programs, and events. This is an excellent company for women who aspire to climb to the top of the corporate ladder.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Gap GapKids BabyGap Banana Republic Old Navy Clothing Co. Gap Warehouse

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Millard S. Drexle, CEO John B. Wilson, COO Warren R. Hashagen, Jr., CFO/VP-Finance Adrienne M. Johns, Sr. VP-Human Resources Dennis M. Connors, Sr. VP-CIO

Phone: 650-952-4400 Fax: 650-427-2795 Toll-Free: Address: One Harrison Street, San Francisco, CA, 94105 Internet Address: www.gap.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $9,054,500 1998 Sales: $6,508 1997 Sales: $5,284,381 1996 Sales: $4,395,253 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: GPS

1999 Profits: $824,500 1998 Profits: $533,900 1997 Profits: $452,859 1996 Profits: $354,039 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 81,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $1,976,870 Second Exec. Salary: $890,771

Bonus: $5,335,000 Bonus: $2,114,500

Tremendous buying power for its 1,600 stores, and very effective positioning as a seller of high-value clothing.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 12 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Gap Advertising, San Francisco, CA

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

293

GARDEN BOTANIKA INC Industry Group Code: 44612 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 3

Profits: 4

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Garden Botanika

1,000-1,500

$68,543 per store

Mall

150

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Cosmetics/Beauty Supplies, Retail Mail order-Cosmetics catalog Personal care products

Garden Botanika develops, manufactures, distributes and sells high-quality, reasonably priced personal care products. The company's proprietary products encompass such categories as color cosmetics, skin care, fragrance, bath and body care and related accessories and gifts. Garden Botanika develops its branded products and distributes them for sale primarily through its 280 company-owned and -operated specialty retail stores in 41 states nationwide and through the company's catalog. In addition, the company has begun limited commercial sales through third-party retailers and intends to explore new channels of distribution in order to increase sales and brand awareness. The company believes that the strength of its brand in the markets in which it competes most successfully will provide opportunities to develop new products, sales in new channels of distribution and a broader customer base. Garden Botanika's marketing and merchandising efforts have historically targeted working women who may have purchased skin care and cosmetic products from mall-based department stores and who ideally utilize quality personal care products both on a daily basis and as an affordable luxury item. The company believes that its marketing strategy has attracted a broad cross-section of other consumers beyond its primary target, including younger customers who are attracted to the company's hands-on merchandising approach. The company is seeking to extend its customer base by means of its promotional activities, third-party commercial sales, television shopping channels, international licensing opportunities and an expanded hotel amenities program.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Garden Botanika BotanikaBaby Botanikids Garden Botanika Natural Color Sun & Sport

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Michael W. Luce, CEO Michael W. Luce, Pres. Myron E. Kirkpatrick, VP-Finance/CFO Arlee J. Jensen, Sr. VP-Mktg. John A. Garruto, VP-Research and Product Dev. George W. Newman, VP/Controller Arlee J. Jensen, Sr. VP-Merch. C. Michael Fisher, Sr. VP-Oper. Susan M. Detmer, VP-Brand Dev. Jeffrey M. Hare, VP-Dist. Services Susan M. Walker, VP-Stores

Phone: 425-881-9603 Fax: 425-869-6235 Toll-Free: Address: 8624 154th Avenue NE, Redmond, WA, 98050 Internet Address: www.gardenbotanika.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $102,800 1998 Sales: $114,600 1997 Sales: $92,500 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: GBOT

1999 Profits: $-48,000 1998 Profits: $-15,600 1997 Profits: $-4,900 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,350

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $ Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Has grown rapidly from three stores in 1990 to 186 stores today.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

294

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

GARDEN RIDGE CORPORATION Industry Group Code: 45112 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 4

Profits: 4

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Garden Ridge

125,000

$1,257,731 per store/$100 sq. ft.

Free-standing

29

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Crafts, Retail Garden supplies/plants Pottery Gifts and accessories

Garden Ridge Corporation is a megastore retailer offering broad assortments of products, including decorative home accessories, seasonal products and crafts. The company's strategy of clustering dominant assortments of merchandise from related categories in a single retail location differentiates Garden Ridge from traditional single category superstores. The company believes that combining these related product categories in one store creates significant cross-merchandising opportunities which fulfill, at a single destination, most product requirements for the customer seeking decorative home accessories, seasonal products and crafts. The company’s 10 complementary product categories are floral, housewares, seasonal, pictures and frames, candles, party supplies, pottery, crafts, home accents and baskets. Garden Ridge uses an everyday low pricing strategy and emphasizes customer services in its stores. In addition, Garden Ridge purchases overseas products on a free-on-board shipping point basis, meaning the company takes possession of the goods when they are shipped by the manufacturer. The company insures its overseas purchases at their retail value. Garden Ridge currently operates 21 megastores in 10 states in the southern United States, the 17 newest of which utilize its 125,000 square foot selling space format.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Garden Ridge Management, Inc. Garden Ridge Investment, Inc. Garden Ridge Finance Corporation Garden Ridge, L.P.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Armand Shapiro, CEO Jack E. Lewis, Pres./COO Jane L. Arbuthnot, CFO Phyllis Hink, VP-Human Resources Dennis R. Dye, VP-CIO David S. Hensley, VP/General Merch. Mgr. Phyllis Hink, VP-Oper. Steven C. Fox, VP-Planning and Allocation

Phone: 281-579-7901 Fax: 281-578-0999 Toll-Free: Address: 19411 Atrium Place, Suite 170, Houston, TX, 770846099 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $364,700 1998 Sales: $304,700 1997 Sales: $225,315 1996 Sales: $148,087 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: GRDG

1999 Profits: $10,500 1998 Profits: $11,400 1997 Profits: $8,036 1996 Profits: $6,878 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 3,125

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $350,000 Second Exec. Salary: $245,000

Bonus: $98,000 Bonus: $90,000

Immense stores that stock staggering assortments of merchandise for gardening and crafts at very low prices.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Fogarty Klein & Partners, Houston, TX

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

295

GART SPORTS COMPANY Industry Group Code: 45111 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 4

Profits: 3

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Gart Sports Company

42,000

$5,264,376/store, $125 /sq. ft.

Free-standing/In-line

125

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Sporting Goods, Retail

Gart Sports Company, Inc. is the number two sporting goods retailer in the United States, second only to The Sports Authority. The company operates over 120 stores across 16 states in the western and midwestern regions of the United States. Gart Sports Company, Inc.’s distribution centers are located in Chicago, Denver and Los Angeles. The company sells over 100 categories of name-brand sporting goods, equipment, footwear and apparel, and additionally offers repairs on several items including bicycles and golf clubs. The company also rents equipment, including skis and snowboards. Gart Sports Company, Inc. recently doubled its roster of stores with its acquisition of Sportmart, which owned stores in the western and midwestern portions of the United States. The company additionally made an offer to acquire The Sports Authority, and if the acquisition were completed, Gart Sports Company would become the number one sporting goods retailer in America.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Gart Sports Company

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. John D. Morton, CEO John D. Morton, Pres. Thomas T. Hendrickson, CFO/Exec. VP Robert M. Chessen, Sr. VP- Logistics, Human Resources, and Allocation Arthur S. Hagan, Sr. VP-Merch. Greg Waters, Sr. VP-Store Oper. Thomas T. Hendrickson, Treas.

Phone: 303-861-1122 Fax: 303-863-2240 Toll-Free: Address: 1000 Broadway, Denver, CO, 80203 Internet Address: www.gartsports.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $658,000 1998 Sales: $228,400 1997 Sales: $228,400 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: GRTS

1999 Profits: $-3,400 1998 Profits: $6,700 1997 Profits: $6,700 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 6,059

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $287,500 Second Exec. Salary: $167,000

Bonus: $242,358 Bonus: $115,639

Number two sporting goods retailer in the U.S.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

296

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

GATEWAY INC Industry Group Code: 3341A Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 4

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 3

Annual Sales Per Store:

Gateway Country Direct Marketing

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

In-line

169

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Computers, Retail and Direct Sales PCTVs NetPCs CD ROMs Servers Service and support programs Internet access Computer training

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: GATEWAY 2000 Advanced Logic Research, Inc. Gateway Country Stores Gateway Solo Gateway Gear Gateway Partners E-Series NS-Series

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Theodore W. Waitt, CEO Jeffrey Weitzen, Pres./COO David J. McKittrick, Sr. VP/CFO James A. Taylor, Sr. VP-Global Mktg. Robert N. Beck, Sr. VP-Corp. Human Resources David J. McKittrick, CIO Joseph J. Burke, Sr. VP-Global Business Dev. David J. McKittrick, Treas.

Phone: 619-799-3401 Fax: 605-232-2023 Toll-Free: 800-846-2000 Address: 4545 Towne Centre Court, San Diego, CA, 92121 Internet Address: www.gateway.com Notes/Other Info: Interactive news fax 800-846-4526

Gateway, Inc. and its subsidiaries form a leading direct marketer of personal computers, related products and services. The company offers desktop and portable personal computers, digital media personal computers, servers, workstations, Internet access, peripheral products, third party software and service and support of programs. Gateway's personal computers include a choice of varying clock-speed microprocessors, memory and storage capacities and other options, all specified by the customer. Gateway’s products are used by individuals, families, businesses, government agencies and educational institutions. The company works directly with a broad range of suppliers to evaluate as well as implement the latest developments in personal computer technology. Gateway believes that these relationships have enabled it to bring products with broad market demand on a timely basis to the consumer. The company recently announced the relocation of executive offices from Sioux City, South Dakota to San Diego, California. (Manufacturing and support services have remained in South Dakota.) It also announced the development of an extremely successful chain of retail showrooms across the nation. Currently numbering 169, the store count will grow to about 400 over the next two years, and these locations will generate about $2 billion in sales in 1999 alone. These showrooms enable consumers to see the Gateway line of computers in person and to ask questions of well-trained staff members. Then, they can place orders for PCs to be made to order. Gateway's commitment to rely on its ability to provide new services, such as Internet access at Gateway.net, and computer training to create a large chunk of future revenues will be a major company focus as well. Gateway is now even offering Gateway Gear, a line of fun accessories and clothing with the well-known Gateway cow print graphic theme. Gateway offers multiple opportunities for career advancement.

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $7,467,900 1997 Sales: $6,293,680 1996 Sales: $5,035,228 1995 Sales: $

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $346,400 1997 Profits: $109,800 1996 Profits: $250,700 1995 Profits: $

Stock Ticker: GTW Employees: 19,300

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE: OTHER THOUGHTS:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $615,000 Second Exec. Salary: $336,250

Bonus: $239,850 Bonus: $102,000

Competitive pricing and superior customer service in a well-managed catalog sales effort/New retail stores.

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes)

Apparent Women Officers or Directors: West: Southwest: Midwest: Southeast: Northeast: y y y y y Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: McCann-Erickson WorldGroup, New York, NY Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

297

GC COMPANIES INC Industry Group Code: 512131 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 6

Profits: 7

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

General Cinema Theater

7.4 avg. screens per theater

$1,813,326 per theatre/$262,800 per screen

Mall/In-line

163

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Movie Theaters

GC Companies, Inc. operates a leading motion picture exhibition circuit in the United States under the name General Cinema Theaters, and also manages a pool of capital used for investments. All of the company's theaters are multi-screen theaters, and approximately 83% of the company's screens are located in theaters having six to 18 screens. Over the past eleven years, the company has increased its average number of screens per theater from 4.3 to 7.4 and intends to increase the average number of screens per theater by closing or selling less productive theaters with fewer screens, by building new theaters with more screens, and by expanding existing theaters. Recently, the company has teamed with Robert Redford to open Sundance Cinemas, a theater chain specializing in independent films. General Cinema has experienced a financial downturn recently as the total movie industry screen count is growing at a rate faster than the industry demand. To counter this effect the company has begun opening new theaters in South America in a joint venture with Hoyts Cinema Group. General Cinema expects to have 24 theaters with over 248 screens in Brazil, Argentina, Chile and Mexico by 2000.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: General Cinema Theaters Sundance Cinemas

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Richard A. Smith, CEO Robert A. Smith, COO/Pres. G. Gail Edwards, CFO/VP Louis E. Casavant, VP/Corp. Controller G. Gail Edwards, Treas.

Phone: 617-278-5600 Fax: 617-278-5397 Toll-Free: Address: 27 Boylston Street, Chestnut Hill, MA, 02167 Internet Address: www.generalcinemas.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $396,300 1997 Sales: $446,003 1996 Sales: $451,308 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: GCX

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-41,600 1997 Profits: $17,242 1996 Profits: $8,705 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 6,076

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $337,500 Second Exec. Salary: $330,000

Bonus: $168,750 Bonus: $165,000

Among the top three U.S. operators of multiscreen theaters/International growth.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

298

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

GENERAL NUTRITION COMPANIES INC Industry Group Code: 446191 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Profits: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

General Nutrition Centers/GNC Live Well

1,200-1,800

$364,271 per store

Mall/In-line

1,365 companyowned/1,000 franchised/135 int'l

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Vitamins and Nutritional Supplements, Retail Personal care products Fitness products Other health-related products Franchising

General Nutrition Companies, Inc. is a specialty retailer of vitamins, minerals, and sports nutrition supplements, and is a leading provider of personal care, fitness, and other health-related products. The company’s products are sold through a network of over 2,365 retail stores operating under the General Nutrition Centers and Nature Food Center’s names, of which approximately 1,365 are owned and operated by the company at leased locations, and over 1,000 are franchised. The company’s strategy is to increase its market share in the vitamin, mineral and supplement market and to leverage this increase to maximize profitability. Rite Aid Corporation, one of the nation's leading drugstore chains, completed an agreement with General Nutrition Companies, Inc. to establish a major new strategic alliance. Rite Aid will open full-line GNC stores within Rite Aid locations. Additionally, the company will manufacture and Rite Aid and GNC will jointly market a new line of proprietary vitamins and nutritional supplements to be called PharmAssure. Rite Aid and GNC are also co-developing the nations first Internet site dedicated to nutrition. The site will offer consumers a seamless on-line shopping experience complemented by free on-line information on nutrition and pharmacy care from GNC and Rite Aid. In mid-1999 the firm announced its intent to be acquired by Numico NV, a Netherlands-based maker of nutrition products. Numico will pay $1.8 billion for General Nutrition. This is a great place if you're an enthusiast of vitamins and supplements and you want a job in retailing.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: General Nutrition Centers Nature Food Centres Rite Aid Corporation PharmAssure Numico NV

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. William E. Watts, CEO William E. Watts, Pres. Edwin J. Kozlowski, Exec. VP/CFO Gregory T. Horn, Chief Mktg. Officer Eileen Scott, VP-Human Resources David R. Heilman, VP-Strategic & Corp. Planning

Phone: 412-288-4600 Fax: 412-288-2074 Toll-Free: Address: 300 Sixth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15222 Internet Address: www.gnc.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $1,417,700 1998 Sales: $1,193,500 1997 Sales: $990,845 1996 Sales: $845,952 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: GNCI

1999 Profits: $91,000 1998 Profits: $103,400 1997 Profits: $3,935 1996 Profits: $69,146 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 13,834

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $957,558 Second Exec. Salary: $322,405

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

The only nationwide specialty retailer of vitamin, mineral, and sports nutrition supplements/Operates one of the largest vitamin and mineral supplement manufacturing facilities in the U.S.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Deutsch, Inc., New York, NY

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

299

GENESCO INC Industry Group Code: 4482 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 4

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 6

Annual Sales Per Store:

Johnston & Murphy Jarman Journey's General Shoe Warehouse Nautica Retail

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Mall/In-line Mall/In-line Mall/In-line Mall/In-line Mall/In-line

132 stores/7 leased depts. 244 stores/82 leased depts. 258 1 24

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Shoes/Accessories, Retail

Genesco Inc. manufactures, sources, markets, and distributes branded shoes and boots. The company’s owned and licensed footwear brands are sold through both wholesale and retail channels of distribution. Products are sold at wholesale to more than 4,000 retailers and at retail through the company’s own network of 504 retail shoe stores. Included in the company’s licensed products is Dockers Footwear, which continues to enjoy solid growth in sales and profitability. The company recently sold its western boot business to Texas Boot, Inc. This sale includes most of the assets of Genesco’s Laredo Boot division and its chain of 26 Boot Factory retail stores. In addition, the company announced an accelerated growth strategy for its Journeys and Johnston & Murphy retail store chains. The company intends to open a total of 80 Journeys stores in the current fiscal year and 105 stores in the fiscal year ending January 29, 2000. The new plan includes opening 51 Journeys stores in addition to the store openings the company had originally planned for the same two year period. The company also intends to open five Johnston & Murphy stores in addition to those originally planned for fiscal year 2000. The accelerated store openings are the major component of Genesco’s strategy to address the expected termination of the arrangement under which Genesco operates Mercantile’s men’s shoe departments in connection with the proposed acquisition of Mercantile Stores Company by Dillard’s, Inc.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Johnston & Murphy Jarman Journeys Hardy Factory To You Suits & Shoes Laredo Volunteer Leather Company

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Ben T. Harris, CEO Ben T. Harris, Pres. James S. Gulmi, VP-Finance/CFO John W. Clinard, VP-Human Resources James S. Gulmi, Treas.

Phone: 615-367-7000 Fax: 615-367-8278 Toll-Free: Address: P.O. Box 731, Nashville, TN, 37202-0731 Internet Address: www.johnstonmurphy.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $549,700 1998 Sales: $536,100 1997 Sales: $461,300 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: GCO

1999 Profits: $53,200 1998 Profits: $5,600 1997 Profits: $17,100 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 5,800

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $377,425 Second Exec. Salary: $325,456

Bonus: $399,000 Bonus: $126,140

Has exclusive licenses to market brand names such as Dockers and Nautica shoes.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

300

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

GENOVESE DRUG STORES INC Industry Group Code: 44611 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 7

Profits: 6

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Genovese Drug Stores

11,000

$5,699,703 per store/$518 per sq. ft.

Free-standing/In-line

135

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Drug Stores, Retail Photo stores Arts and craft stores Discount clearance store

Organized in 1924, Genovese Drug Stores, Inc. operates a chain of 135 retail drug stores as well as a professional photo retail store, an arts and crafts store and a discount clearance store. Most locations operate under the Genovese name, and all stores are located in the northeast portion of the United States in New York, Connecticut and New Jersey. The company recently opened ten additional stores: four in Suffolk County, New York, two in Nassau County, New York, two in Queens, New York, one in the Bronx, New York and one in Connecticut. Genovese is currently continuing a program of acquiring independent drug stores within its marketing area, purchasing the pharmacy files and inventory and in some cases employing the pharmacist owners and managers. Geneovese additionally in 1998 operated a mail order prescription division. The company believes that its pharmacy/ drug store is distinguished from the typical due to its service of a relatively large trading area and its larger selection of quality merchandise.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Genovese Drug Stores

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. L. Genovese, Pres. Jerome Stengel, VP/CFO Jerome Stengel, Treas.

Phone: 516-420-1900 Fax: 516-845-8487 Toll-Free: Address: 80 Marcus Drive, Melville, NY, 11747 Internet Address: www.genovese.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $769,460 1997 Sales: $695,298 1996 Sales: $612,279 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: GDX.A

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $- 676 1997 Profits: $10,401 1996 Profits: $7,607 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 4,600

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $512,560 Second Exec. Salary: $252,560

Bonus: $115,000 Bonus: $60,500

Leading drug store chain in the metropolitan New York area.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

301

GETTY IMAGES INC Industry Group Code: 442299 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

On-line selling

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Stock Photography Images

The number one provider of stock photography images in the United States, Getty Images, Inc. offers over 30 million images and 13,000 hours of stock film footage to its customers. The company, which is 30% family-owned, currently runs under Chairman Mark Getty. Getty Images, Inc. has recently completed a number of acquisitions that have netted the company several branches. Among these are Tony Stone Images and PhotoDisc, providers of contemporary stock photos, Allsport, providers of sports photos, and Liason Agency, providers of news photos. The company’s customers are largely comprised of ad agencies, print media and production companies. Getty Images’ distribution occurs through e-commerce, a route which the company is currently emphasizing. Print and CD-ROM catalogs are additional routes utilized by Getty Images.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Tony Stone Images PhotoDisc Allsport Liason Agency

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Johnathan D. Klein, CEO Christopher J. Roling, Sr. VP-Finance/CFO Rebecca Clements, Sr. VP-Human Resources Nicholas Evans-Lombe, Sr. VP-Strategy and Corp. Dev. Warwick Woodhouse, Sr. VP-Planning John Gonzales, VP-Strategic Relations

Phone: 206-695-3401 Fax: 206-695-3401 Toll-Free: Address: 2101 Fourth Avenue, Suite 500, Seattle, WA, 98121 Internet Address: www.getty-images.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $185,100 1997 Sales: $100,800 1996 Sales: $85,000 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: GETY

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $36,616 1997 Profits: $3,692 1996 Profits: $2,786 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,345

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $520,000 Second Exec. Salary: $337,804

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Number one provider of stock photography images in the United States.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 4 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

302

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

GETTY PETROLEUM MARKETING Industry Group Code: 44719 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 5

Annual Sales Per Store:

Getty

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Free standing

1,317

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Gasoline Retailing Service stations Convenience stores Automotive repair centers Car washes Distribution centers

Getty Petroleum Marketing, Inc. along with its subsidiaries acts as one of the largest independent marketers of petroleum products in the United States. The company primarily serves both retail and wholesale customers through its 1,317 Getty and other branded retail outlets, which serve as a distribution and marketing network for the company. The retail outlets, or service stations, are located throughout 12 Northeastern and Middle-Atlantic states. Some service stations possess accompanying convenience stores, gas stations or automobile repair centers. In addition to retailing, Getty Petroleum Marketing sells gasoline, fuel oil, diesel fuel and kerosene on a wholesale basis from distribution terminals and bulk plants in truck and barge quantity. Fuel oil, kerosene, propane, oil burner and related services are also sold to residential, commercial and governmental customers in New York. The company has recently achieved lowered operating costs through the practice of leasing and subleasing retail outlets to independent operators. Getty is currently continuing to pursue a strategy of expanding the business principally by acquiring and establishing new locations.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Getty Marketing, Inc. Getty Realty Corp. Power Test Uni-Marts

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Leo Liebowitz, CEO Alvin A. Smith, Sr. VP/COO John Fitteron, CFO Michael K. Hantman, VP/Corp. Controller Samuel M. Jones, VP/General Counsel/Corp. Sec. Vincent J. DeLaurentis, Pres.

Phone: 516-338-6000 Fax: 516-338-1582 Toll-Free: Address: 125 Jericho Turnpike, Jericho, NJ, 11753 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $660,800 1998 Sales: $892,800 1997 Sales: $888,500 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: GPM

1999 Profits: $ 600 1998 Profits: $1,200 1997 Profits: $-15,200 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

622

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $408,803 Second Exec. Salary: $183,762

Bonus: $123,400 Bonus: $137,700

Expanding through acquisitions/One of the largest independent petroleum marketers in the United States.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

303

GLACIER WATER SERVICES INC Industry Group Code: 4400 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 11

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 17

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Vending machines

Number of Stores: 8,500 machines

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Purified Drinking Water

Glacier Water Services, Inc. is a leading provider of high quality, low price drinking water dispensed to consumers through self-service vending machines that are designed, developed, and assembled by the company. The company has grown from 3,000 machines in 1992 to over 8,500 machines. The company completed the two year development of its new inside machine and is currently implementing its placement at retail locations. Initial tests indicate that different customers use the inside machines, and the company believes that the inside machines will allow it to enter geographic markets where cold or severe weather prevents use of outside machines. In other business, the company completed the conversion of the exterior graphics on the company’s entire machine base. Glacier Water recently completed a review of its locations and began a program to relocate approximately 600 machines to new, more profitable locations.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES:

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Jerry Welch, CEO Jerry Gordon, Pres./COO Dane Seibert, Sr. VP-Mktg. Luz Gonzales, VP-Human Resources Brian T. Nakagawa, VP-Tech. Brian T. Nakagawa, VP-Info. Systems Brenda K. Foster, VP/Controller/Sec. Glen A. Skumlien, Exec. VP-Oper.

Phone: 619-930-2420 Fax: 619-930-1206 Toll-Free: Address: 2261 Cosmos Court, Carlsbad, CA, 92009 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $56,300 1997 Sales: $57,300 1996 Sales: $46,100 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: HOO

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-3,300 1997 Profits: $ 400 1996 Profits: $3,300 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

372

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $177,175 Second Exec. Salary: $156,912

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Machines are placed outside of supermakets and other high-traffic areas/Locations are predominantly in the South where temperatures are warm and water sales are high.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

304

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

GLOBE BUSINESS RESOURCES INC Industry Group Code: 421 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 8

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 6

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Globe Furniture Rentals Globe Clearance Centers Globe Instant Office

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Furniture Stores, Retail Temporary corporate housing

Formed in 1988 to acquire rent-to-rent furniture businesses, Globe Business Resources, Inc. is today a major participant in the temporary relocation industry. The company operates in the rent-to-rent furniture business as well as in the temporary corporate housing business, which provides short-term leased housing to transferring or temporarily assigned corporate personnel. Globe Corporate Stay International, the name that the company operates its corporate housing operations under, boasts over 2,500 corporate housing units and furnished apartments. Since its inception, Globe has accelerated its expansion through a combination of rent-to-rent and corporate housing acquisitions. The company’s rent-torent business segment operates under the names Globe Furniture Rentals, Globe Clearance Centers and Globe Instant Office, which deals primarily in office furniture. The furniture in these locations is rented and, in the case of Globe Clearance Centers, sold. The company stands as the third largest in the United States rent-to-rent business. In fiscal 1998, the company completed seven corporate housing acquisitions, and the company plans to continue acquiring locations in order to expand business in the future.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Globe Furniture Rentals Globe Clearance Centers Globe Instant Office Globe Corporate Stay International

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. David D. Hoguet, CEO Blair D. Neller, Pres./COO Victoria L. Chester, Sr. VP-Planning and Dev.

Phone: 513-771-8287 Fax: 513-771-2318 Toll-Free: Address: 11260 Chester Road, Ste. 400, Cincinnati, OH, 45246 Internet Address: www.glbe.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $147,500 1998 Sales: $103,900 1997 Sales: $67,500 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: GLBE

1999 Profits: $5,200 1998 Profits: $4,100 1997 Profits: $3,900 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

669

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $239,149 Second Exec. Salary: $93,500

Bonus: $60,000 Bonus: $12,000

Third largest company in the rent-to-rent segment of the furniture rental industry.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

305

GLOBENET INTERNATIONAL Industry Group Code: 446191 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 4

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 4

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Direct marketing only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Nutritional Supplements Personal care products

GlobeNet International, Inc. markets over 200 nutritional supplements and personal care products including herbs, vitamins, minerals and natural skin, hair and body care products. The company operates its business through two major divisions: Royal BodyCare and Great Xpectations. Royal BodyCare is engaged in the international marketing and distribution of a line of nutritional supplement and personal care products through a network of independent distributors. The company’s products include a proprietary ingredient named Flanagan Microclusters that is indigenous to the company, and acts as a catalyst that increases the body’s absorption of nutritional supplements. The Great Xpectations division markets and distributes approximately 17 products in the United States through a network of independent distributors. The company operates several distribution facilities throughout the state of Texas in the United States, and in the provinces of Ontario and British Columbia in Canada. GlobeNet International plans to expand by creating new products and strengthening its distribution forces.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: GlobeNet International Royal BodyCare Great Xpectations Flanagan Microclusters

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Clinton H. Howard, Pres. Steven E. Brown, CFO/VP Gregory A. White, CIO Ken Sabot, Sr. VP-Oper.

Phone: 972-401-0052 Fax: 972-869-1974 Toll-Free: Address: 10575 Newkirk, Suite 780, Dallas, TX, 75220 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $27,139 1997 Sales: $12,843 1996 Sales: $8,639 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: GNII

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $ 435 1997 Profits: $- 687 1996 Profits: $- 25 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

125

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $177,000 Second Exec. Salary: $105,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Strengthening distribution forces/Creating new products.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International: y

306

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

GOOD GUYS INC (THE) Industry Group Code: 443 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 6

Profits: 14

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

The Good Guys! WOW! Multimedia Superstore

9,000-32,000

$11,753,037 per store

In-line

79 1

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Electronics, Audio, and Appliance Stores, Retail Music retailing Video retailing Computer software

The Good Guys, Inc. is a leading specialty retailer of consumer electronics products. The company operates 79 stores and puts a great deal of emphasis on service. The Good Guys!’ merchandise is comprised of approximately 4,400 products from over 240 vendors. The company recently added personal computers and accessories to its products. The company’s WOW! Multimedia Superstore in Las Vegas, a test concept store jointly operated with Tower records, experienced the best first year of any The Good Guys! stores. The company’s business strategy is to compete by being a value-added retailer, offering a broad selection of top national brand name merchandise sold at competitive prices by a friendly, knowledgeable and motivated team of associates. Six existing locations have been converted to an Audio/Video Exposition format. Digital technology is taking over much of the company's merchandise. All sales associates attend an initial training program which is continually updated and is designed to develop good sales practices and techniques. The company holds daily meetings to keep sales associates trained in company procedures and policies and to update them on competitive information and current product introductions, availability and pricing. Sales associates are paid under an incentive compensation program with a salary guarantee that is applied against incentives earned.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: The Good Guys! WOW! Multimedia Superstore Tower Records, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Robert A. Gunst, CEO Robert A. Gunst, Pres. Dennis C. Carroll, VP/CFO William B. Perlstein, VP-Sales Gera M. Vaz, VP-Human Resources Thomas A. Hannah, Sr. VP-Oper.

Phone: 650-615-5000 Fax: 650-615-6287 Toll-Free: Address: 7000 Marina Boulevard, Brisbane, CA, 94005 Internet Address: www.thegoodguys.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $928,500 1997 Sales: $925,714 1996 Sales: $889,206 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: GGUY

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-8,900 1997 Profits: $-6,219 1996 Profits: $14,166 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 5,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $500,000 Second Exec. Salary: $210,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Everyday discount prices on name brand merchandise.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Goodby, Silverstein & Partners, San Francisco, CA; Hal Riney & Partners, Inc., San Francisco, CA; Citron Haligman Bedecarre, San Francisco, CA

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

307

GOODY'S FAMILY CLOTHING INC Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 11

Profits: 12

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Goody's

27,200

$4,245,463 per store/$155 per sq. ft.

In-line

250

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel Stores, Retail Women's apparel Men's apparel Children's apparel

Goody's Family Clothing, Inc. is a retailer of moderately priced apparel for women, men and children, operating 250 stores in 15 southeastern and midwestern states. Its stores average approximately 27,200 square feet. Goody's plans to open over 30 stores in 1999. The company’s objective is to be the leading retailer of brand name apparel in each of the markets it serves by providing its customers with a broad selection of current-season, quality branded apparel at value prices. Goody's expansion strategy is to open new stores in small to midsize markets generally located within 800 miles of its distribution center in Knoxville, Tennessee. The company’s current plans are to open a total of 28 new stores, including the company’s first three stores in the state of Texas, relocate or remodel 10 to 12 stores and close two stores. The company has developed a new merchandising strategy due to the low sales of December of 1998.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Ivy Crew Authentic GFC GFC Trading Co. Good Kidz

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Robert M. Goodfriend, CEO Harry M. Call, Pres./COO Edward R. Carlin, Exec. VP/CFO Stanley B. Latacha, Sr. VP-Mktg. and Advertising Hazel A. Moxim, VP-Human Resources Jay D. Scussel, VP-MIS Thomas R. Kelly, Jr., Exec. VP/General Merch. Mgr.

Phone: 423-966-2000 Fax: 423-777-4230 Toll-Free: Address: 400 Goody's Lane, Knoxville, TN, 37922 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $1,091,100 1998 Sales: $971,900 1997 Sales: $819,056 1996 Sales: $696,868 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: GDYS

1999 Profits: $27,700 1998 Profits: $33,300 1997 Profits: $17,151 1996 Profits: $10,464 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 8,800

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $600,000 Second Exec. Salary: $300,000

Bonus: $900,000 Bonus: $225,000

Broad selection of current season, brand-name merchandise.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

308

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

GOTTSCHALKS INC Industry Group Code: 4521 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 19

Profits: 17

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Gottschalks Village East Ham's Gottschalks

50,000-150,000 1,799-4,000 50,000-150,000

$170 per sq. ft. (for all stores)

Mall Mall Mall

40 22 9

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Department Stores, Retail Large women's apparel

Gottschalks Inc. is a regional department and specialty store chain based in the western U.S. It currently consists of 40 Gottschalks department stores and 22 Village East specialty stores located primarily in non-major metropolitan cities. Gottschalks stores are typically located in mid-sized markets that show a strong potential for growth and a demand for nationally recognized brand name merchandise. The company seeks to open two new stores per year, although many stores may be opened in a given year if it is financially attractive to the company. Gottschalks’ recent business developments include the opening of three new stores in California and the implementation of a five-year store renovation program to update the appearance of the company’s aging stores. The firm also launched a new concept format for its home shops called Emil’s Market. It will encompass home products such as housewares, tabletop and linens, and will pull together the product categories with a home town feeling. However, the consumer electronics department in Gottschalks stores was eliminated from the product mix. The company’s growth strategy includes the opening of new stores, acquisition of smaller stores and the remodeling of existing stores.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Gottschalks Village East Emil's Market

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. James Famalette, CEO James Famalette, Pres./COO Alan A. Weinstein, Sr. VP/CFO John Wintemute, VP-Info. Systems Gary Gladding, Exec. VP/General Merch. Mgr. Dave Vernon, Sr. VP-Planning and Allocation Bret Levy, VP-Non-Store Retail

Phone: 559-434-8000 Fax: 559-434-4803 Toll-Free: Address: 7 River Park Place East, Fresno, CA, 93720 Internet Address: www.gottschalks.com; www.gotts.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $524,000 1998 Sales: $448,200 1997 Sales: $422,200 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: GOT

1999 Profits: $5,300 1998 Profits: $3,700 1997 Profits: $1,800 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 5,661

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $327,600 Second Exec. Salary: $276,508

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Has been in operation for over 91 years.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 3 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

309

GRAND UNION COMPANY (THE) Industry Group Code: 4451 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 17

Profits: 36

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Grand Union Hot Dot Foods

14,000-64,000

$10,210,810 per store

Free-standing/In-line

202 20,000

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Grocery Stores/Supermarkets, Retail

The Grand Union Company currently operates 202 retail food stores under the Grand Union name in six northeastern states. The company aims to be one of the premier retailers in the Northeast, providing greater value to customers and shareholders and better opportunities for associates. A senior management team helps attribute to the company's success, with over 100 years collective experience at some of the nation's most successful food retailers. Grand Union's reputation is complemented with high consumer awareness due to a 127-year old name. A new prototype was recently opened, calling for a store encompassing 20,000 square feet with lower prices. Operating under the name Hot Dot Foods, the supermarket is one with a more limited assortment of merchandise than the larger format grocery store. The concept calls for cutting 60% of inventory, including lesspopular brands, varieties and sizes. The bulk of sales are from a small percentage of items. The deli and meat counters have been eliminated. In this store, customers must pack their own groceries. Hot Dot guarantees the lowest prices on ten basic commodities, such as bananas, bread and potatoes.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Hot Dot Foods

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Roger E. Strangeland, CEO Gary M. Philbin, Pres. Jeffrey P. Freimark, Sr. VP/CFO Gilbert C. Vuolo, Sr. VP-Human Resources and Labor Relations William E. Kinslow, Corp. VP-MIS Gary M. Philbin, Chief Merch. Officer Jeffrey P. Freimark, Chief Admin. Officer Francis E. Nicastro, VP/Treas.

Phone: 201-890-6000 Fax: 201-890-6671 Toll-Free: Address: 201 Willowbrook Boulevard, Wayne, NJ, 07470 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $2,266,800 1997 Sales: $2,312,700 1996 Sales: $2,307,800 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: GUCO

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-304,000 1997 Profits: $-183,400 1996 Profits: $-139,200 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 15,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $538,462 Second Exec. Salary: $305,927

Bonus: $39,939 Bonus: $8,314

Consistently works toward becoming the low price leader in each of its markets.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Mark Russell & Associates, Syracuse, NY

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

310

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

GREAT ATLANTIC & PACIFIC TEA COMPANY INC (THE) Industry Group Code: 4451 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 9

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

A&P Waldbaum's Food Emporium SuperFresh Farmer Jack Food Basics-franchised

31440

Profits: 12

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Free-standing/In-line

839 (for all stores) 2

27,953

58

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Grocery Stores/Supermarkets, Retail Coffee manufacturer and distributor Franchises

The Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Company, Inc. is engaged in the retail food business. The company operates 839 stores averaging approximately 31,440 square feet per store. In addition, the company began franchising its Canadian Food Basics stores. The firm operates 58 Food Basics Franchise stores in Canada, averaging approximately 27,953 square feet per store. Operating under the trade names A&P, Super Fresh, SavA-Center, Farmer Jack, Kohl’s, Food Emporium, Waldbaum’s, Food Mart, Food Bazaar, Miracle Food Mart, Ultra Mart, Futurestore, Dominion, Food Basics and Compass Foods, the company sells groceries, meats, fresh produce and other items commonly offered in supermarkets. In addition, many stores have bakery, delicatessen, pharmacy, floral, fresh fish and cheese departments as well as on-site banking. National, regional and local brands are sold as well as private label merchandise and generic (non-branded) products. In support of its retail operations, the firm also operates two coffee roasting plants, two bakeries and a delicatessen food kitchen. In addition, the company maintains 16 warehouses that service its store network. 40 new stores were opened recently, and the company plans to open at least 45 more. High priorities include the continuation of a program to improve and build a franchise in the company’s core markets of metropolitan New York, Canada and Michigan.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: A&P Waldbaum's Food Emporium Super Fresh Farmer Jack Kohl's Sav-A-Center Dominion

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. C.W.E. Haub, Co-CEO Michael J. Larkin, Sr. Exec. VP/COO F. Corrado, CFO H. Nelson Lewis, Sr. VP-Human Resources George Graham, Exec. VP/Chief Merch. Officer Aaron Malinsky, Exec. VP-Dev. and Strategic Planning James Wood, Co-CEO C.W.E. Caub, Pres.

Phone: 201-573-9700 Fax: 201-930-8106 Toll-Free: Address: 2 Paragon Drive, Box 418, Montvale, NJ, 07645 Internet Address: www.aptea.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $10,179,400 1998 Sales: $10,262,200 1997 Sales: $10,089,000 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: GAP

1999 Profits: $-67,200 1998 Profits: $63,100 1997 Profits: $73,000 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 80,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $1,182,817 Second Exec. Salary: $498,885

Bonus: $829,000 Bonus: $75,000

One of the ten largest retail food chains in the U.S./Stores throughout the eastern U.S.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 4 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

311

GREAT TRAIN STORE COMPANY (THE) Industry Group Code: 45112 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 7

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

The Great Train Store The Train Depot The Great Train Express

1,153-3,301 11,171

Profits: 8

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Mall Mall Mall

56 1 5

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Train-Themed Merchandise Toy trains Men's, women's, children's apparel Novelties and souvenirs Printed train material

The Great Train Store Company is a national chain of unique, upscale specialty retail stores that offer a broad selection of train-themed merchandise not generally available from any other single retailer. The company recently opened five of The Great Train Store Express temporary holiday stores. The prototypical storefront of approximately 30 feet has a high quality appearance and is constructed of wood and glass with a design which integrates with the internal decor and color palette and is intended to draw the customer into its ambiance of an early 20th century train station. Each of The Great Train Stores features attractions, such as moving electrical trains, whistles, railroads, crossing signals, train sounds and audiovisual projections, to increase the visibility of the store. The company plans to open The Great Train Store at Glendale Galleria, The Westchester, Haywood Mall, Willow Grove Park, Walden Galleria, Barton Creek Square, Smith Haven Mall, and The Mall at Fairfield Commons. These stores will all be located in places that are high traffic shopping areas.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES:

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. James H. Levi, CEO James H. Levi, Pres. Cheryl A. Taylor, VP-Finance James L. Llewellyn, VP-Sales Cheryl A. Taylor, VP-Admin.

Phone: 972-392-1599 Fax: 972-392-1698 Toll-Free: Address: 14180 Dallas Parkway, Suite 618, Dallas, TX, 75240 Internet Address: www.greattrain.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $33,900 1997 Sales: $28,100 1996 Sales: $19,000 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: GTRN

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-3,800 1997 Profits: $ 400 1996 Profits: $ 800 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

704

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $145,237 Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Unique specialty retail stores for train enthusiasts.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

312

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

GREEN TREE FINANCIAL CORP Industry Group Code: 522921 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Support Services Only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Financing Contracts for Manufactured Homes Consumer products financing Equipment financing Insurance Private-label credit cards

Green Tree Financial Corporation is a diversified financial services company with operations serving customers in the consumer finance, commercial finance and insurance markets. Through its principal offices in Minnesota and service centers throughout the United States, Green Tree serves all 50 states. Green Tree’s retail credit activities are concentrated in two basic areas: issuing and administering private-label credit card programs for retail merchants and a recently launched bankcard operations. The company differentiates itself from existing large-scale providers by offering retailers highly customized products and targeted marketing services designed to help them increase sales. All of the retail group’s customer service and collection functions are handled at Green Tree’s service centers. The company’s private-label credit card operation has established a number of new relationships during the year and is beginning to mature into a valuable component of Green Tree’s business mix. The privatelabel credit card is offered as a tool to enhance revenues and promote customer loyalty for Green Tree dealers in the consumer product and home improvement areas. The Retail Services Division benefits from synergies with other Green Tree operations, particularly Mortgage Services, with which it shares leadership, a marketing database, and financial control.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Manufactured Housing Division Home Improvement Division Consumer Finance Division Equipment Finance Division Commercial Finance Division Green Tree Retail Credit Services Insurance Division Green Tree Mortgage Services

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Lawrence M. Coss, CEO Robert D. Potts, Pres./COO Edward L. Finn, Exec. VP/CFO Barbara J. Didrikson, VP-Human Resources

Phone: 612-293-3400 Fax: 612-293-5746 Toll-Free: Address: 1100 Landmark Towers, Saint Paul, MN, 55102-1639 Internet Address: www.gtfc.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $1,389,600 1997 Sales: $1,091,460 1996 Sales: $724,111 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: GNT

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $ 1997 Profits: $301,396 1996 Profits: $200,774 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 5,499

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $633,600 Second Exec. Salary: $428,174

Bonus: $4,203,303 Bonus: $1,650,000

Largest issuer of closed-end asset-backed securities in the U.S.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 6 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

313

GRIFFIN LAND & NURSERIES Industry Group Code: 4442 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 3

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Imperial Nurseries

400 acres

Profits: 3

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Free-standing

7

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Garden Supplies/Plants, Retail Real estate

Griffin Land & Nurseries, Inc. operates a landscape nursery and real estate business. The landscape nursery business of the company is operated by its wholly owned subsidiary, Imperial Nurseries, Inc. Imperial is a grower, distributor, and broker of wholesale landscape nursery stock. Its container growing operations are located on property owned by Griffin in Connecticut and northern Florida. The majority of Imperial’s inventories are container-grown products that consist of broad leaf evergreens, including azaleas and rhododendron. Imperial is currently reviewing a variety of approaches for differing categories of products. Among such possible approaches are changing the growing cycle for some of its containerized production, selling such plants in terra cotta or similar containers for immediate use by customers and adding a broader selection of perennial flowers and flowering shrubs to its list of products. Imperial operates seven wholesale horticultural sales and service centers which sell a wide range of plant material and horticultural tools and products to the trade. Griffin, through its Griffin Land division, is directly engaged in the real estate development business on portions of its land in Connecticut. Griffin develops portions of its properties for commercial, residential and industrial use. The most substantial of Griffin’s current development efforts are focused on a 600-acre tract owned by Griffin.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Imperial Nurseries, Inc. Griffin Land Centaur Communications, Ltd.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Frederick M. Danziger, CEO Frederick M. Danzinger, Pres. Anthony J. Galici, VP-Finance/CFO

Phone: 212-218-7910 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 1 Rockefeller Plaza, Suite 2301, New York, NY, 10020 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $51,200 1997 Sales: $46,300 1996 Sales: $46,500 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: GRIF

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $ 100 1997 Profits: $-2,100 1996 Profits: $-4,600 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

332

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $300,000 Second Exec. Salary: $1,162,558

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Operates in both the nursery and real estate retail segments.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

314

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

GRISTEDE'S SLOAN'S INC Industry Group Code: 4451 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 35

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Gristede's Sloan's

3,200-23,000 3,200-23,000

Profits: 30

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line

29 11

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Grocery Stores/Supermarkets, Retail Supermarket supplier Wholesale fresh produce

Founded in 1956, Gristede’s Sloan’s, Inc. owns and operates 40 supermarkets, with 11 under the name of Sloan’s and 29 under the name Gristede’s. All supermarkets are scattered throughout New York, with 35 in Manhattan, three in Westchester County, one in Brooklyn and one in Long Island. The supermarkets offer broad lines of competitively priced merchandise, including food items of all kinds, cigarettes, paper goods and health and beauty aids. Gristede’s Sloan’s Inc. operates one instore pharmacy that dispenses prescription drugs and check-cashing services for customers holding checkcashing cards. Recenty, the company acquired one supermarket, closed two for business consolidation and another two because leases were not renewed. In addition, Gristede’s Sloan’s, Inc. combined two physically adjacent supermarkets into one as part of the company’s ongoing remodeling plans. The firm also operates and owns City Produce Operating Corporation, a supplier of the company’s supermarkets and wholesaler of fresh produce to third parties. City Produce, a warehouse operation, acts as an internal distribution center as well. Gristede’s Sloan’s, Inc. offers doorstep grocery delivery services to its customers for a small fee, setting it apart from much of the competition.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Gristede's Sloan's, Inc. Gristede's Sloan's City Produce Operating Corp.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. John A. Catsimatidis, CEO John A. Catsimatidis, Pres. Stuart Spivak, Exec. VP/CFO John Gildea, Dir.-Human Resources

Phone: 212-956-5803 Fax: 212-247-4509 Toll-Free: Address: 823 11th Ave., New York, NY, 10019-3535 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $157,500 1997 Sales: $9,200 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $116,862

Stock Ticker: GRI

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $- 300 1997 Profits: $ 100 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $43,969

Employees: 1,323

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $ Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Broad lines of merchandise offered/Offers doorstep delivery.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

315

GROSSMAN'S INC Industry Group Code: 44413 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales:

Profits:

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Contractors' Warehouse

70,000-110,000

$7,418,000 per store/$146 per sq. ft. (all stores)

Free-standing/In-line

15

Mr. 2nd's Bargain Outlet

20,000

Free-standing/In-line

28

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Building Materials/Hardware Stores Home improvement products

Grossman’s, Inc. operates 43 building materials and home improvement merchandise stores, with 15 operating under the name Contractor’s Warehouse and 28 operating under the name Mr. 2nd’s Bargain Outlet. Contractor’s Warehouse stores feature large drive-thru lumberyards stocked with varieties, sizes and quantities of several different lumber and building materials. The lumberyards, designed for convenience and ease of pickup, loading and transportation, typically encompass one-half of the location’s area. Contractor’s Warehouse provides convenient, one-stop shopping for remodelers, independent contractors, homebuilders and other independent contractors, its target customers. The stores offer specialized services such as special order showrooms, computer estimating services, development of material lists and prices from blueprints, quick bid job quotes, professional tool rental, specialized delivery services and early morning hours. Mr. 2nd’s Bargain Outlets offer close-out, second and over-stocked home improvement materials and building-related merchandise. The low-overhead, no-frills stores offer this merchandise at a fraction of the original price. Mr. 2nd's also offers reconditioned appliances to do-it-yourself customers.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Contractors' Warehouse Mr. 2nd's Bargain Outlet

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Thomas A. Ford, CEO Thomas A. Ford, Pres. Don Perry, Dir.-Human Resources Sharyn Hetu, Group Controller

Phone: 781-297-3300 Fax: 781-297-0180 Toll-Free: Address: 90 Hawesway, Stoughton, MA, 02072-1163 Internet Address: www.contractorswarehouse.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $ 1997 Sales: $271,900 1996 Sales: $385,700 1995 Sales: $669,800

Stock Ticker: GROS

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $ 1997 Profits: $ 1996 Profits: $-81,208 1995 Profits: $- 198

Employees: 1,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $400,000 Second Exec. Salary: $243,875

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Focuses on the needs of remodelers and independent contractors/Is in Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

316

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

GROUP 1 AUTOMOTIVE INC Industry Group Code: 4411 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 2

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Various auto dealers

Number of Stores: 58

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Auto Dealers, Retail

Group 1 Automotive, Inc. was founded to become a leading operator and consolidator in the highly fragmented automotive retailing industry. Group 1 recently acquired four automobile dealership groups comprised of 30 automobile dealership franchises. The company’s franchises are located in Florida, Georgia, Oklahoma and Texas, and sell new and used cars and light trucks, provide maintenance and repair services, sell replacement parts and arrange related financing, insurance and extended service contracts. Group 1 plans to acquire additional dealerships in each of the markets in which it operates, including acquisitions that increase the brands, products or services offered in that market. The company has signed definitive purchase agreements related to eight dealership acquisitions. Three of these acquisitions are new platforms and will expand the company’s geographic diversity to include Georgia, New Mexico, and Florida. Certain of the remaining acquisitions are tuck-ins that will complement the company’s platform operations in Austin and Beaumont, Texas and Florida. These acquisitions will bring the company’s total number of dealership franchises to 58 and the number of brands represented to 24. The company also agreed to acquire dealerships in Texas, Oklahoma and Georgia, including 16 dealership franchises. In addition, the company acquired two dealerships in Texas.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Carroll Automotive Group Maxwell Automotive Group Johns Automotive Group Luby Chevrolet Perimeter Ford World Ford Kendall

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. B.B. Hollingsworth, Jr., CEO B.B. Hollingsworth, Jr., Pres. Scott L. Thompson, Sr. VP/CFO John S. Bishop, Sr. VP-Oper. John T. Turner, Sr. VP-Corp. Dev. Scott L. Thompson, Treas.

Phone: 713-467-6268 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 950 Echo Lane, Suite 350, Houston, TX, 77024 Internet Address: www.group1auto.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $1,630,100 1997 Sales: $902,300 1996 Sales: $825,600 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: GPI

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $20,700 1997 Profits: $11,400 1996 Profits: $9,200 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 3,101

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $383,750 Second Exec. Salary: $266,667

Bonus: $360,000 Bonus: $250,000

Expansion through acquisition.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

317

GUITAR CENTER INC Industry Group Code: 45122A Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 3

Profits: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Guitar Center Guitar Center Flagship Hollywood

12,000 - 20,000 30,600

$9,888,000 per store/$638 per sq. ft.

Free-standing Free-standing

48 1

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Music Store, Retail Pro audio and recording equipment

Guitar Center, Inc. is a leading retailer of guitars, amplifiers, percussion instruments, keyboards and pro audio and recording equipment with 36 stores in 19 major U.S. markets. The company believes that it offers a unique retail concept in the music products industry, combining an interactive hands-on shopping experience with a broad selection of brand name, high-quality products. Guitar Center’s management believes that approximately 75% of the company’s revenues come from professional and aspiring musicians. The firm believes that the music industry is highly fragmented as 90% of the industry’s 8,400 retailers operate only one or two stores. Guitar Center plans on opening 10 new stores in the upcoming year. Guitar Center’s Flagship Hollywood store is currently one of the nation’s largest and best-known retail stores of its kind, with approximately 30,600 square feet of retail space. The store features one of the largest used and vintage guitar collections in the U.S., attracting buyers and collectors from around the world.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Guitar Center Flagship Hollywood

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Larry Thomas, CEO Marty Albertson, COO/Exec. VP Bruce Ross, CFO/Exec. VP Mark Laughlin, Sr. VP-Info. Systems Andrew Heyneman, Sr. VP-Merch. Barry Soosman, Exec. VP-Corp. Dev./General Counsel Larry Thomas, Pres.

Phone: 818-735-8800 Fax: 818-735-8844 Toll-Free: Address: 5155 Clareton Dr., Agoura Hills, CA, 91301 Internet Address: www.guitarcenter.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $391,700 1997 Sales: $293,700 1996 Sales: $213,300 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: GTRC

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $27,400 1997 Profits: $16,400 1996 Profits: $-72,400 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,727

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $500,000 Second Exec. Salary: $375,000

Bonus: $425,854 Bonus: $319,416

Offers one of the largest new and vintage guitar collections in the United States.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

318

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

GYMBOREE CORP (THE) Industry Group Code: 44813 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Profits: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Gymboree

1,500-3,000

$810,671 per store

Mall/In-line

564

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel-Children's, Retail Parent-child developmental play programs

The Gymboree Corporation is a leading specialty retailer of high quality apparel and accessories for children ages newborn to seven years old. The company operates a chain of stores, primarily in regional shopping malls and in selected suburban and urban locations. Gymboree currently operates 564 stores worldwide. The company’s apparel is characterized by bright color, bold fun prints with complex embroidery, comfort, functionality and durability. Gymboree also offers directed parent-child developmental play programs for children ages newborn to five years old at approximately 396 franchised and company-operated locations. The company recently created an entirely new distribution channel, the Gymboree Gift Center at www.gymboree.com. The first GymBaby stores were also opened, increasing the company’s presence in the newborn apparel and accessory market. Gymboree’s next venture is to broaden its market by introducing its first clothing stores for children 6 to 12 years old. The company also plans to open a Hong Kong buying office, so Gymboree team members can work directly with Asian manufacturers and suppliers. In addition, the company completed plans for CradleGym, a new line of clothing and accessories that expands the company’s newborn business. CradleGym uses soft fabrics and a pastel color palette for garments and packaging. The company continues to expand with the opening of Six European stores, in the United Kingdom and in Ireland. Gymboree Play Programs classes are currently offered in ten countries around the world in addition to the United States.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Gymbo GymBaby Gymboree Cradle Gym Gymboree Play Programs Gymboree Gift Center

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Gary White, CEO Gary White, Pres. James P. Curley, Sr. VP/CFO Keith L. Harband, VP-Mktg. Kenneth F. Meyers, VP-Human Resources Mindy C. Meads, Sr. VP/General Merch. Mgr. R. Mark Syrstad, Sr. VP-Oper. James P. Curley, Chief Admin. Officer

Phone: 650-579-0600 Fax: 650-579-1733 Toll-Free: 800-222-7758 Address: 700 Airport Boulevard, Suite 200, Burlingame, CA, 94010 Internet Address: www.gymboree.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $457,200 1998 Sales: $373,400 1997 Sales: $303,111 1996 Sales: $259,381 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: GYMB

1999 Profits: $6,200 1998 Profits: $35,200 1997 Profits: $31,788 1996 Profits: $26,381 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 6,500

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $464,494 Second Exec. Salary: $385,540

Bonus: $ Bonus: $242,775

Strives to create a distinctive look for its merchandise to enhance brand recognition.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 12 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 3 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

319

HANCOCK FABRICS INC Industry Group Code: 45112 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 3

Profits: 3

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Hancock Fabrics Northwest Fabrics and Crafts

12,600

$849,140 per store/$67 per sq. ft.

In-line

500 48

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Fabric and Sewing Accessories, Retail

Hancock Fabrics, Inc. is engaged in the retail and wholesale fabric business, selling fabrics, crafts and related accessories to the home sewing and home decorating markets and, at wholesale, to independent retailers. The company operates 500 stores in 38 states and serves over 100 independent wholesale customers, making it one of the largest fabric retailers in the U.S. The company, in the last several years, has been forced to close over 130 underperforming stores, but expects to see growth as it focuses on closing smaller stores and opening more high-volume stores. Hancock plans to open 40 new stores in 1999. In recent news, Hancock Fabrics recently acquired Northwest Fabrics and Crafts, a 48-store chain of large stores which have a limited overlap with existing Hancock stores and are located in markets that were previously targeted for expansion. Recently, Hancock advanced its business marketing strategy which included new efforts such as the company’s half-hour sewing project show on the new Home & Garden Television Network. In addition, the company has a charter advertising partnership with HGTV which allows them to provide a steady schedule of TV commercials during its Sew Perfect and other HGTV programming. Hancock recently launched its own co-branded MasterCard, The Fabric Card. In other business, Hancock introduced its Sew Perfect magazine, originally called Home Expressions.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Hancock Fabrics Minnesota Fabrics Fabric Warehouse The Fabric Market HGTV The Fabric MasterCard Sew Perfect

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Larry G. Kirk, CEO Jack W. Busby, Jr., COO/Pres. Bruce D. Smith, CFO/Sr. VP Tom R. Collins, VP-Mktg. Bruce E. Rockstad, VP-Human Resources Jeffie L. Gatlin, VP-MIS Billy M. Morgan, Sr. VP-Merch. Ellen J. Kennedy, Corporate Sec. Dean W. Abraham, Sr. VP-Store Oper. Bruce D. Smith, Treas.

Phone: 601-842-2834 Fax: 601-842-2834 Toll-Free: Address: 3406 West Main Street, P.O. Box 2400, Tupelo, MS, 38803-2400 Internet Address: www.hancockfabrics.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $392,300 1998 Sales: $381,900 1997 Sales: $378,200 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: HKF

1999 Profits: $3,600 1998 Profits: $15,300 1997 Profits: $12,500 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 6,700

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $228,808 Second Exec. Salary: $227,405

Bonus: $87,225 Bonus: $

Carries a wide selection of fashion merchandise and current decorator items/The leading fabric store in the U.S.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Sky Advertising, Tupelo, MS

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

320

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

HANNAFORD BROS CO Industry Group Code: 4451 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 12

Profits: 10

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Hannaford Wilson's

22,300-61,700

$22,157,253 per store

Free-standing/In-line

46 102-all stores except Hannaford

Shop 'n Save Hannaford's Home Runs

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Grocery Stores/Supermarkets, Retail Pharmacies within supermarkets Wholesale business

Hannaford Bros. Company is a multi-regional food retailer, with 148 supermarkets located through out Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont, and in parts of New York, Massachusetts, Virginia, North Carolina and South Carolina. Its stores are operated primarily under the names Hannaford and Wilson’s. The company also operates 100 pharmacies within the company’s supermarkets and combination stores. Hannaford Trucking Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary, transports merchandise to and from the company’s distribution facilities and is licensed as an irregular outer common carrier with 48-state authority. The company also hauls products for third-party customers, thereby reducing the number of miles that its trucks travel empty. In the Boston, Massachusetts market, the company is evaluating a home shopping service called Hannaford’s HomeRuns. Consumers shop from a catalog, placing their order via phone, fax or the Internet. Orders are selected at a dedicated fulfillment center and delivered the next day. The company completed the conversion of its primary private brand from Shop ‘n Save to Hannaford.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Shop 'n Save Hannaford Trucking Company Wilson's Hannaford's Home Runs Hannaford

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Hugh G. Farrington, CEO Hugh G. Farrington, Pres. Blythe J. McGarvie, Sr. VP/CFO Michael J. Strout, Sr. VP-Human Resources Steven H. Brinn, VP-Research William L. Homa, VP/CIO Paul A. Fritzson, Exec. VP-Strategic Dev.

Phone: 207-883-2911 Fax: 207-885-3165 Toll-Free: Address: 145 Pleasant Hill Road, Scarborough, ME, 04074 Internet Address: www.hannaford.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $3,323,600 1997 Sales: $3,226,400 1996 Sales: $2,957,600 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: HRD

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $94,600 1997 Profits: $59,600 1996 Profits: $75,200 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 7,900

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $437,000 Second Exec. Salary: $242,277

Bonus: $233,402 Bonus: $128,881

Continues to grow through acquisitions.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 8 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Tidewater Marketing, Scarborough, ME; Pedone & Partners, Adv., Inc., New York, NY

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

321

HANOVER DIRECT INC Industry Group Code: 45411 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 11

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 26

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Direct marketing only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel Stores, Retail Mail order-apparel Mail order-kitchenware Mail order-gifts

Hanover Direct, Inc. is a leading specialty direct marketer with a diverse branded portfolio of home fashions, general merchandise, men’s and women’s apparel and gift catalogs delivered via direct mail and electronic commerce. The company’s catalog titles were regrouped so that all significant decisions are made by management of each of six brand groups: Home Fashions-MidMarket brands, Home Fashions-Upscale brands, General Merchandise brands, Women’s Apparel brands, Men’s Apparel brands and Gift brand groups. Hanover maintains an active presence on the Internet by having a commerceenabled Web site for each one of its catalogs which offers its merchandise, takes catalog requests, and accepts orders for not only website merchandise but also from any print catalog already mailed. The firm is about to enter the evolving field of direct response television marketing, having taken advantage of the opportunity to offer a particular catalog’s merchandise on a 24-hour television shopping channel and long-form television programming. In addition, Hanover Direct entered into an agreement to post some of its catalogs’ merchandise offerings on electronic marketing channels which are not directed to residences but to airport lounges, hotel room and airplane electronic networks. The company and Excite announced the debut of a new Catalog Department on Excite’s Shopping Channel, bringing the extensive Hanover Direct branded portfolio of specialty catalogs to Excite’s on-line shopping audience.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Domestications The Company Store Gump's Colonial Garden Kitchens Kitchen & Home Tweeds International Male Improvements

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Rakesh K. Kaul, CEO/Pres. Michael G. Lutz, Exec. VP/COO Larry J. Svoboda, Sr. VP/CFO Richard B. Hoffman, Sr. VP/Chief Mktg. Officer Ralph J. Bulle, Sr. VP-Human Resources Michael D. Contino, Sr. VP/CIO Edward J. O'Brien, Sr. VP/Treas.

Phone: 201-863-7300 Fax: 201-392-5035 Toll-Free: Address: 1500 Harbor Boulevard, Weehawken, NJ, 07087 Internet Address: www.hanoverdirect.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $546,100 1997 Sales: $557,600 1996 Sales: $700,300 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: HNV

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-25,600 1997 Profits: $-10,900 1996 Profits: $-105,000 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 2,800

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $542,769 Second Exec. Salary: $265,385

Bonus: $577,037 Bonus: $53,400

Vast base of mail order customers.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 5 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

322

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

HAROLD'S STORES INC Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 42

Profits:

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Harold's

4,000-6,000

$2,809,652 per store/$506 per sq. ft.

Malls/In-line

46

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel Stores, Retail Mail order

Harold’s Stores, Inc. owns and operates a chain of women’s and men’s specialty apparel stores in more than 46 locations in the U.S. The company also operates a direct response catalog. Harold's products are marketed to upscale quality-conscious consumers, with the strongest appeal to the 20 to 50 year-old age group. Recently, the company added two outlets in Texas. In addition, the company's new website offers customers the ease of shopping by computer. Orders are taken off the site each morning and then packed and shipped by the company’s in-house catalog fulfillment center. Harold’s plans on providing shoppers with on-line shopping baskets, where they can pick and choose selections, add or delete them, or make special requests for Harold’s merchandise.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Harold's Old School Clothing Harold Powell

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Rebecca Powell Casey, CEO H. Rainey Powell, Pres./COO Jodi L. Taylor, CFO Jeffrey T. Morrell, VP-Human Resources Linda Daugherty, VP/Controller Curtis E. Elliott, VP-Merch. Curtis E. Elliott, VP-Planning Janet F. Firth, VP-Ladies Merch. Henry F. James, VP-Men's Merch.

Phone: 405-329-4045 Fax: 405-366-2541 Toll-Free: Address: 765 Asp Avenue, Norman, OK, 73069 Internet Address: www.harolds.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $129,200 1998 Sales: $119,900 1997 Sales: $108,300 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: HLD

1999 Profits: $2,800 1998 Profits: $ 1997 Profits: $3,500 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,322

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $220,000 Second Exec. Salary: $180,000

Bonus: $70,000 Bonus: $29,000

Focus on upscale leather chairs, specialty carpets, couches, and beverage bars.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 4 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

323

HARRY'S FARMERS MARKET INC Industry Group Code: 4451 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 36

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Harry's Harry's In A Hurry

95,000-132,500 3,700-7,200

Profits: 32

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Free-standing Free-standing

3 5

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Grocery Stores/Supermarkets, Retail Convenience stores

Harry’s Farmers Market, Inc. owns and operates concept megastores and convenience stores specializing in perishable food products. Harry’s stores also feature lines of specialty, hard-to-find and gourmet nonperishable food products that are complementary to the fresh food offerings. In addition, the company’s stores carry kitchenoriented housewares, floral items, natural health and beauty aids, and a full line of wines and imported and domestic beers. The company’s bakery and prepared foods departments are fully integrated food-manufacturing operations. The company currently owns and operates three megastores and three Harry’s In A Hurry convenience stores, all in the Atlanta, Georgia metropolitan area. The company recently signed a lease for a new Harry’s In A Hurry store at the former Plaza Drugs location in Atlanta. The new location will be fashioned after the new prototype store. The store will feature all the amenities that are offered with the Harry’s In A Hurry stores. However, this new prototype includes an expanded soup bar, two cold salad bars, a European open flame Rotisserie supplying a hot food bar, a par-cooked vegetable bar, a coffee bar, a European-style pastry shop and a bakery. The new store will also offer a sandwich bar that allows customers to completely customize a sandwich from a spread of fresh ingredients. The new location, based on customer requests, will also have a fullservice seafood counter and a seating area.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Harry's Harry's In A Hurry

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Harry A. Blazer, CEO Harry A. Blazer, Pres. Harold C. Weissman, CFO

Phone: 770-664-8878 Fax: 770-664-4920 Toll-Free: Address: 1180 Upper Hembree Road, Roswell, GA, 30076 Internet Address: www.hfm.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $136,100 1998 Sales: $137,000 1997 Sales: $140,200 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: HARY

1999 Profits: $-6,400 1998 Profits: $-5,900 1997 Profits: $-1,500 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,221

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $250,000 Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $50,000 Bonus: $

Stores feature lines of specialty, hard-to-find and gourmet nonperishable food products.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

324

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

HARVEY ELECTRONICS INC Industry Group Code: 443 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 15

Profits: 11

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Harvey Electronics

1,500-7,500

$2,877,000 per store

In-line

6

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Electronics, Audio, and Appliance Stores, Retail

Established over 71 years ago, Harvey Electronics, Inc. is a high-end retailer of esoteric, high-quality audio, video and home theater equipment. The company also deals in the service and installation of these products, which includes high fidelity components and systems, video cassette recorders, digital versatile disc players, direct view, projection and plasma flat-screen television sets, audio/video furniture, digital satellite systems, conventional telephones and related accessories. The company’s six retail locations exist throughout New York state, with the exception of one store in Connecticut and one store in New Jersey. Harvey Electronics’ stores are designed to display merchandise in an attractive and pleasing environment, and in doing so showcase items in lifestyle home vignettes, or realistic home settings. Each store is equipped with highly trained professionals possessing extensive product knowledge. Harvey's stores contrast with the company’s competitor, which might offer a more rushed atmosphere and a lesser-trained staff. As part of an expansion plan, the company recently entered into a definitive contract with Sound Mill, Inc. and its subsidiary, Loriel Custom Audio Video Corporation, a retailer and custom installer of specialty high-end audio/video products.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Harvey Electronics Sound Mill, Inc. Loriel Custom Audio Video Corporation

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Franklin C. Karp, Pres. Joseph C. Calabrese, Jr., Exec. VP/CFO Michael A. Beck, VP-Oper. Joseph C. Calabrese, Jr., Treas.

Phone: 201-842-0078 Fax: 201-842-0660 Toll-Free: Address: 205 Chubb Ave., Lyndhurst, NJ, 07071 Internet Address: www.harveyonline.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $17,300 1997 Sales: $15,400 1996 Sales: $15,900 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: HRVE

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $- 900 1997 Profits: $-1,300 1996 Profits: $3,400 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

86

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $125,000 Second Exec. Salary: $116,000

Bonus: $15,000 Bonus: $10,000

Recently entered into an extensive expansion plan.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

325

HASTINGS ENTERTAINMENT Industry Group Code: 45122A Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 4

Profits: 4

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Hastings

21,200

$3,043,267 per store/$143 per sq. ft.

Free-Standing/In-line

131

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Video Rental Stores, Retail Books Music Software Video Games Videos, Video Games and DVD rental E-Commerce

Hastings Entertainment, Inc. is a leading multimedia entertainment retailer that combines the sale of books, music, software, periodicals and videotapes with the rental of videotapes and video games in a superstore format. The company currently operates 131 superstores in small to medium-sized markets located throughout the midwestern and western United States. The company believes that these markets are usually underserved by existing book, music, software or video stores with competition generally limited to locally owned specialty stores or single-concept entertainment retailers. Hastings believes that it has advantages over its competitors, including its multimedia retailing concept, extensive product selections, and operating experience. The company’s stores carry approximately 40,000 book titles, 20,000 music selections, 6,000 videotapes and video games, 800 DVD-format titles, 2,000 periodicals, 1,500 software titles and 1,500 complimentary and accessory items for sale. The company also offers over 15,000 videotapes and video games for rent. Hastings has identified over 500 underserved markets and plans to open approximately 60 superstores in the next three years in certain of those markets, and to have at least 170 stores open by the end of 2000. Hastings recently announced plans to launch www.gohastings.com, a new e-commerce Internet Web site, which will enable customers to access more than 10 million new and used entertainment products. The e-commerce site will also offer computers and peripherals through a strategic agreement with Thomas A. Edison Incorporated, a custom manufacturer and distributor of personal notebook and desktop computers. The firm makes a local commitment to help fund literacy campaigns in each community it serves. Each store employs about 50 people.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: www.gohastings.com Thomas A. Edison, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. John H. Marmaduke, CEO/Pres. Phillip G. Hill, COO/Sr. VP Dennis McGill, CFO/VP-Finance

Phone: 806-351-2300 Fax: 806-351-2211 Toll-Free: Address: 3601 Plains Blvd., Ste. #1, Amarillo, TX, 79102 Internet Address: www.hastingsentertainment.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $398,700 1998 Sales: $357,700 1997 Sales: $324,300 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: HAST

1999 Profits: $ 500 1998 Profits: $8,600 1997 Profits: $3,800 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 5,330

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $ Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Recently launched an e-commerce site/Strategic acquisitions.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

326

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

HAVERTY FURNITURE COS INC Industry Group Code: 421 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 3

Profits: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Havertys Furniture

45,000

$168 per sq. ft.

Free-Standing/In-line/Mall

100

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Furniture Stores, Retail Home furnishings

One of the largest specialty furniture retailers in the United States, Haverty Furniture Companies, Inc. operates 100 full service retail furniture stores located in 12 contiguous states in the southeast and southwest. Haverty Furniture sells a broad range of household furniture and accessories, including living room, bedroom, and dining room furniture, bedding, lamps, and occasional furniture. The company executed a program of remodeling and expanding showrooms and replacing smaller stores in growth markets with a new larger format store. Recently, Havertys entered two new cities, including Louisville and Lexington, Kentucky. The expansion into Kentucky was not with newly constructed stores, but with existing leased locations that were remodeled and reopened. Haverty Furniture used this approach to lease, remodel and open six stores in Birmingham, Alabama, Bowling Green, Kentucky, Fredericksburg and Roanoke, Virginia and Springfield, Missouri (a new state for Havertys). Advanced computer systems to track sales and manage inventory are now in use here. Employees receive extensive in-house training in sales and operations. Management trainees are rotated through a number of different store management functions.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Havertys Furniture

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. J.E. Slater, CEO J.E. Slater, Pres. D.L. Fink, Exec. VP/CFO M. Tony Wilkerson, Sr. VP-Mktg. Joan S. Nagy, VP-Human Resources Gerald M. Hohman, VP-Oper. and Training

Phone: 404-881-1911 Fax: 404-870-9424 Toll-Free: Address: 866 West Peachtree Street, N.W., Atlanta, GA, 30308 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $540,300 1997 Sales: $490,000 1996 Sales: $456,900 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: HAVT

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $16,800 1997 Profits: $13,400 1996 Profits: $12,200 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 3,286

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $275,000 Second Exec. Salary: $200,000

Bonus: $300,000 Bonus: $175,000

Terrific buying power and a massive advertising budget.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 3 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

327

HEALTHRITE INC Industry Group Code: 446191 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 5

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 5

Annual Sales Per Store:

Healthrite

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

In-line

1

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Nutritional and Natural Health Products Dietary supplements Over-the-counter (OTC) drugs Primarily direct marketing

HealthRite,Inc. is a producer, distributor and seller of consumable fitness, health and diet products including energy formulated products, bee pollen, bee-related products, standardized herbal extracts, meal substitutes and sports nutrition products. This merchandise is currently manufactured in two modern facilities in Maryland and Montana. HealthRite is currently implementing a plan to focus on Pure Energy and Medifast branded products while expanding upon its herbal extracts custom manufacturing operation. Restructuring of the company’s marketing and distribution strategies in order to take advantage of major retail drug chains and favorable financing is also in the works. Additionally, HealthRite is consolidating most Montana-based branded products to capitalize on lower cost structures, and is developing a strategic manufacturing partnership for its Maryland facility. The firm is also restructuring, and will continue to restructure and consolidate in the future, its Montana Naturals International operation, eventually providing more cost-effective manufacturing. While the firm primarily sells its product directly, it has recently opened a retail store.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Nautilus Nutritionals Vitamin Specialties Medifast Montana Naturals Pure Energy TAKESHAPE Nutrition Centers

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Bradley T. MacDonald, CEO Randall Rueb, CFO Charles R. Walgreen, Sr. VP- Business Dev.

Phone: 410-581-8042 Fax: 410-581-8070 Toll-Free: Address: 11445 Cronhill Dr., Owings Mills, MD, 21117 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $15,900 1997 Sales: $14,400 1996 Sales: $16,500 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: HLRT

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $- 900 1997 Profits: $-3,700 1996 Profits: $ 300 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

111

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $170,000 Second Exec. Salary: $120,000

Bonus: $4,000 Bonus: $

HealthRite opened its first retail store within a WalMart Supercenter in Lewistown, Pennsylvania.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

328

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

HEARX LTD Industry Group Code: 6214 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

HEARx

Number of Stores:

In-line

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Equipment Manufacterer, Hearing Aids Hearing care centers

HEARx Ltd. operates a network of hearing care centers which provide a full range of audiological products and services for the hearing impaired. The company’s strategy focuses on contracting with managed care and health insurance companies to provide members and beneficiaries with high quality hearing care utilizing stateof-the-art facilities with a full range of diagnostic and rehabilitative services, a qualified professional staff and hearing education listening programs. Each HEARx center is staffed or supervised by a minimum of one professionally trained, licensed and certified audiologist and at least one patient care coordinator. Each center provides comprehensive hearing services that include a facility equipped with soundproof testing booths, a full range of diagnostic and auditory-vestibular tests that assist the physician in the treatment of patients with hearing and balance disorders, a family hearing counseling program, and a variety of hearing aid brands. Recently, HEARx completed a joint venture in hearing care with The Permanente Federation. The partners intend to dramatically raise the level of quality in hearing services in addition to offering greater access to hearing aids through competitive prices.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: HEARx Resound Octicon

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Paul A. Brown, M.D., CEO Stephen J. Hansbrough, Pres./COO James W. Peklenk, VP-Finance/CFO Donna L. Taylor, VP-Oper.

Phone: 561-478-8770 Fax: 561-478-3603 Toll-Free: Address: 1250 Northpoint Parkway, West Palm Beach, FL, 33407 Internet Address: www.hearx.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $27,500 1997 Sales: $24,200 1996 Sales: $18,500 1995 Sales: $11,200

Stock Ticker: EAR

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-12,300 1997 Profits: $9,200 1996 Profits: $7,900 1995 Profits: $-2,200

Employees:

300

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $200,000 Second Exec. Salary: $175,000

Bonus: $70,000 Bonus: $50,000

Focus on providing hearing care to managed care systems.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

329

HECHINGER CO Industry Group Code: 44413 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 3

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Hechinger Home Quarters Warehouse Builders Square

72,000 98,000 99,000

Profits: 13

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Free standing/In-line Free standing/In-line Free standing/In-line

62 46 133

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Home and Garden Improvement, Retail Automotive products Pet food Building materials

Together with its subsidiaries, Hechinger Company is a leading retailer of products and services for the care, repair, remodeling and maintenance of the home and garden. The company currently operates approximately 244 stores under the Hechinger, Home Quarters Warehouse and Builders Square names. Located primarily in the southern, southeastern, northern and midwestern portions of the United States, Builders Square stores total 133. The 62 Hechinger stores are primarily located in the mid-Atlantic region, while the 46 Home Quarters stores exist throughout the southeastern, northeastern and midwestern regions. The company’s remaining stores are currently being converted to Hechinger or Home Quarters stores. Hechinger Company was recently acquired through a merger with Centers Holdings, Inc., along with BSQ Transferee Corporation, which held substantially all of the assets and liabilities of the Builders Square business of Kmart Corporation. BSQ and Hechinger Company are affiliates of Centers Holdings as a result of this merger. Hechinger is currently operating under Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Frequent new store openings are creating job opportunities and management trainee posts.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Home Quarters Warehouse, Inc. Hechinger Stores Company Builders Square Centers Holdings, Inc. BSQ Transfreee Corporation

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Mark R. Adams, CEO Donald T. Stallings, Exec. VP/COO Cindy Warren, Dir.-Human Resources Mark R. Adams, Pres.

Phone: 301-341-1000 Fax: 301-925-3912 Toll-Free: Address: 1801 McCormick Drive, Largo, MD, 20774 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $3,449,200 1997 Sales: $2,199,100 1996 Sales: $2,252,800 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: HECHA

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-92,900 1997 Profits: $-25,100 1996 Profits: $-77,600 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 28,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $923,076 Second Exec. Salary: $310,181

Bonus: $94,100 Bonus: $183,600

Name recognition in the northeast and southeast.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: ADWORKS, Inc., Washington, DC, Barry Blau & Partners of Maryland, Inc., Towson, MD

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

330

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

HEILIG MEYERS COMPANY Industry Group Code: 421 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Heilig-Meyers Rhodes The Room Store Mattress Discounters

25,000 34,000 35,000 4,000

Profits: 10

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Free-Standing/In-line Free-Standing/In-line Free-Standing/In-line Free-Standing/In-line

813 97 107 236

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Furniture Stores, Retail

Heilig-Meyers Company is a specialty retailer of home furnishings with 1,244 stores. The company made several recent acquisitions, including The RoomStore, Inc., Star Furniture, Mattress Discounters Corporation, Bedding Experts, Inc., John M. Smyth’s Homemakers and Hub Furniture. Heilig-Meyers Company operates its stores under four formats. The company's format is associated with its historical operations, as well as the 32 stores operating in Puerto Rico under the Berrios name. The majority of Heilig-Meyers stores operate in smaller markets with a broad line of merchandise. The Rhodes format retailing strategy, selling quality furniture to a broad base of middle income customers, is used in 102 stores. Stores under The RoomStore format display and sell furniture in complete room packages. The Mattress Discounters format is used for 225 stores. The company’s Heilig-Meyers stores are primarily located in small towns and rural markets. Rhodes stores are located in the midsized markets and metropolitan areas of 15 states. The RoomStore formatted stores are located in 7 states. The 225 Mattress Discounters stores are located in 11 eastern states, California and Washington, D.C. As a result of the acquisition of Rhodes, The RoomStore and Mattress Discounters, the company now has the ability to match operating formats to markets with appropriate demographic and competitive factors. Helig Meyers recently developed a profit improvement plan.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Heilig-Meyers MacSaver MacSaver Design of a Scotsman The RoomStore, Inc. Star Furniture Mattress Discounters Corporation Hub Furniture Bedding Experts, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. William C. DeRusha, CEO Troy A. Peery, Jr., Pres./COO

Phone: 804-359-9171 Fax: 804-254-1498 Toll-Free: Address: 12560 West Creek Parkway, Richmond, VA, 23238 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $2,431,200 1998 Sales: $2,160,200 1997 Sales: $1,342,200 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: HMY

1999 Profits: $-2,000 1998 Profits: $-55,100 1997 Profits: $40,200 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 23,100

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $684,015 Second Exec. Salary: $615,614

Bonus: $171,720 Bonus: $154,548

Nation's largest publicly held specialty retailer of home furnishings.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Barker Martin & Associates, Inc., Richmond, VA

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

331

HERITAGE PROPANE PARTNERS Industry Group Code: 44719 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 6

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 2

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Heritage Propane

Number of Stores: 144

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Propane Retailer

Formed in April of 1996, Heritage Propane Partners, L.P. conducts its activities through its subsidiary, Heritage Operating, L.P. The partnership acquires, owns and operates the propane business and assets of Heritage, which is the sixth largest retail marketer of propane in the United States. Serving over 240,000 active residential, commercial, industrial and agricultural customers from 144 district locations in 26 states, the company’s operations exist throughout the western, midwestern , southeastern and northeastern regions of the U.S. The company utilizes a number of trademarks and brand names to successfully promote and market Heritage’s image. Balgas, Bi-State Propane, Carolane Propane Gas, Gas Service Company, Holton’s L.P. Gas, Ikard & Newsom, Northern Energy, Sawyer Gas, Keen Propane and Gibson Propane and Rural Bottled Gas and Appliance are those names included in the company’s employment. Heritage Propane Partners primarily experiences growth through acquisitions of retail operations and internal growth. Recently, the company acquired certain stocks and assets of Gibson Propane Co., Gibson Homegas, Fallsburg Gas Service, Inc., Tennessee Independent Propane Co., S.R. Young, Inc., Horizon Gas, Inc., Horizon Gas of Palm Bay, Inc., Horizon Gas of Hudson, Inc., Waynesville Gas Service, Inc. and Keen Compressed Gas Go.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Heritage Propane Heritage Operating Balgas Bi-State Propane Carolane Propane Gas Gas Service Company Holton's L.P. Gas Ikard & Newsom

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. James E. Bertelsmeyer, CEO R.C. Mills, Exec. VP/COO H. Michael Krimbill, VP/CFO Bradley K. Atkinson, VP-Admin. G. A. Darr, VP-Corp. Dev. H. Michael Krimbill, Treas.

Phone: 918-492-7272 Fax: 918-493-7290 Toll-Free: Address: 8801 S. Yale Ave., Ste. 310, Tulsa, OK, 74137 Internet Address: www.heritagepropane.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $186,000 1997 Sales: $199,800 1996 Sales: $163,100 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: HPG

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $8,800 1997 Profits: $5,200 1996 Profits: $-5,500 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

957

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $355,756 Second Exec. Salary: $225,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Growth through several acquisitions.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

332

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

HIBBETT SPORTING GOODS INC Industry Group Code: 45111 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 6

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Hibbett Sports Sports Additions Sports & Co.

5,000 1,500 25,000

Profits: 4

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Mall/In-line Mall Free-standing

156 11 4

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Sporting Goods, Retail Apparel-sports Athletic shoes

Hibbett Sporting Goods, Inc. is a rapidly growing operator of full-time sporting goods stores in small to mid-sized markets in the southeastern United States. Hibbett’s stores offer a broad assortment of quality athletic equipment, footwear and apparel at competitive prices with superior customer service. The company’s merchandise assortment features a core selection of brand name merchandise emphasizing team and individual sports complemented by a selection of localized apparel and accessories designed to appeal to a wide range of customers within each market. The firm operates 107 Hibbet Sports stores as well as nine smaller-format Sports Additions athletic shoe stores and four largerformat Sports & Co. superstores. Hibbett’s primary retail format and growth vehicle is Hibbett Sports, a 5,000 square foot store located predominantly in enclosed malls. Hibbett Team Sales, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of the company, is a leading supplier of customized athletic apparel, equipment and footwear to school, athletic and youth programs in Alabama. Team Sales sells its merchandise directly to educational institutions and youth associations.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Hibbett Sports Sports & Co. Sports Additions Hibbett Team Sales, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Michael J. Newsome, Pres. Susan H. Fitzgibbon, VP/CFO Joy A. McCord, VP-Merch. Cathy E. Pryor, VP-Store Oper.

Phone: 205-942-4292 Fax: 205-912-7290 Toll-Free: Address: 451 Industrial Lane, Birmingham, AL, 35211 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $143,400 1998 Sales: $113,600 1997 Sales: $86,400 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: HIBB

1999 Profits: $6,800 1998 Profits: $5,900 1997 Profits: $1,700 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,435

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $175,000 Second Exec. Salary: $97,100

Bonus: $137,800 Bonus: $65,300

Strong name recognition in the Southeast.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 3 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

333

HILLS STORES COMPANY Industry Group Code: 4521 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 14

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Hills Department Stores

Profits: 22

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

$11,408.319 per store

Mall/Free-standing/In-line

155

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Department Stores, Retail

Through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Hills Department Store Company, Hills Stores Company operates a chain of discount department stores under the trade name of Hills Department Stores. The company’s locations primarily exist throughout the Great Lakes and Ohio River Valley regions of the United States, and total 155. Spanning over 12 states, the company is a leading regional discount retailer offering a broad range of top quality and brandname merchandise. The firm's stores are located throughout cities of varied size in population, however, Hills Department Stores receives 40% of its business through its metropolitan locations. Hills Stores Company employs a business strategy incorporating a combination of everyday low prices and promotional offerings, depth and breadth of products in selected merchandise categories, newly remodeled facilities and strict operating controls.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Hills Stores Company Hills Department Stores CRH International, Inc. American Spirit

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Gregory K. Raven, CEO Gregory K. Raven, Pres. Scott Litten, Exec. VP/CFO Frederick L. Angst, Exec. VP/Chief Merch. Officer Michael R. Hamilton, Exec. VP-Oper.

Phone: 781-821-1000 Fax: 781-821-6966 Toll-Free: Address: 15 Dan Road, Canton, MA, 02021 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $1,768,274 1997 Sales: $1,878,477 1996 Sales: $1,900,104 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: HDS

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-9,015 1997 Profits: $-35,058 1996 Profits: $-16,666 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 8,553

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $700,000 Second Exec. Salary: $318,667

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Carries a diverse line of products/Active in the communities it serves.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

334

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

HOLIDAY RV SUPERSTORES Industry Group Code: 4400 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 9

Profits: 9

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Holiday RVS Superstores

13,000-30,000

$9,229,395

Free-Standing

7

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Recreational Vehicles and Boats, Retail

Holiday RV Superstores, Inc. is a multi-store retail chain engaged in the retail sales and service of recreation vehicles and boats in the southeastern United States and California. The company currently operates seven sales and service centers. All centers offer a full line of both new and used recreation vehicles and maintain full parts and service facilities, body repair shops and are equipped to repair virtually any type of recreational vehicle. Two of the centers sell and service boats and related marine products. The company has a comprehensive Internet web page, HolidayRV.com, containing the industry’s only web page where a prospective RV buyer can receive a price quote on a new or used RV or boat and complete a confidential credit application. In response to the needs of RV customers nationally experiencing warranty difficulties while in route, Holiday RV Superstores Inc. and RV Claims have achieved intra-dealership data transmission of centralized warranty administration. The company's toll free phone number connects recreational vehicle buyers throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, Hawaii and Alaska to the closest Superstore automatically.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Holiday RV Rental/Leasing, Inc. Holiday RV Superstores of South Atlanta, Inc. Holiday RV Superstores of South Carolina, Inc. Holiday RV Superstores West, Inc. Holiday RV Superstores of New Mexico, Inc. Holiday RV Assurance Service, Inc. HolidayRV.com

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. N.C. Kindlund, CEO N.C. Kindlund, Pres. W.H. McAlhaney, VP/CFO

Phone: 407-363-9211 Fax: 407-363-2065 Toll-Free: 800-RV-FOR-FUN Address: 7851 Greenbriar Parkway, Orlando, FL, 32819 Internet Address: www.HolidayRV.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $71,500 1997 Sales: $68,000 1996 Sales: $74,800 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: RVEE

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $1,700 1997 Profits: $1,400 1996 Profits: $1,300 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

193

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $107,581 Second Exec. Salary: $81,437

Bonus: $ Bonus: $52,477

Offers toll-free and Internet services.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: RH Power, Albuquerque, NM; Wheeler Advertising, Arlington, TX

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

335

HOME DEPOT INC Industry Group Code: 44413 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Home Depot EXPO Design Centers

107,000 92,000

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Free-standing Free-standing

753 8

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Builidng Materials/Hardware Stores Home improvement products Upscale interior design products Hardware and tools Paint

Including its subsidiaries, Home Depot, Inc. is the leading retailer in the home improvement industry and ranks among the 10 largest retailers in the United States. The company operates approximately 512 stores, including 483 full-service, warehouse-style Home Depot stores in the United States and 24 in Canada, and 5 EXPO Design Centers in the United States. The stores sell a wide assortment of building material, home improvement, lawn and garden products. The company’s strategy is to offer a broad assortment of high-quality merchandise at competitive prices utilizing highly knowledgeable, serviceoriented personnel and aggressive advertising. In order to enhance long-term market penetration, Home Depot opens new stores near the edge of the market areas served. The firm believes that this strategy increases customer satisfaction and overall market share by reducing delays in shopping, increasing utilization by existing customers and attracting new customers to more convenient locations. Approximately 78 percent of Home Depot's employees are employed on a full-time basis. In order to attract and retain qualified personnel, the company seeks to maintain salary and wage levels above those of its competitors in its market areas. Its policy is to hire and train additional personnel in anticipation of expansion. Home Depot offers a Team Depot volunteer program whereby associates help build low-income housing for organizations like Habitat for Humanity. Through programs like Christmas in April, the company repairs the homes of the elderly, the disabled, and the poor. Associates also tutor, coach and help nurture at-risk youth who are in need of guidance in thier lives. Home Depot has also provided over $6 million in 1994 to help fund many community projects in the U.S. and Canada.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Home Depot EXPO Design Center Home Depot Canada

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Arthur M. Blank, CEO Arthur M. Blank, Pres. Marshall L. Day, Sr. VP/CFO Richard A. Hammill, Sr. VP-Mktg. and Advertising Stephen R. Messana, Sr. VP-Human Resources Mike Anderson, Sr. VP-Info. Services W. Andrew McKenna, Sr. VP-Strategic Business Dev.

Phone: 770-433-8211 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 2455 Paces Ferry Road, Atlanta, GA, 30339-4024 Internet Address: www.homedepot.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $30,219,000 1998 Sales: $24,156,000 1997 Sales: $19,535,503 1996 Sales: $15,470,358 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: HD

1999 Profits: $1,614,000 1998 Profits: $1,160,000 1997 Profits: $937,739 1996 Profits: $731,523 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 97,912

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $799,615 Second Exec. Salary: $500,000

Bonus: $2,000,000 Bonus: $348,000

World's largest home improvement retailer/One of the 10 largest retailers in the U.S.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 4 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 2 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Western International Media Corp., Los Angeles, CA; The Richards Group, Inc., Dallas, TX; Cohn & Wolfe, Atlanta, GA

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

336

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

HOMEBASE INC Industry Group Code: 44413 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 5

Profits: 5

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

HomeBase

102,000

$17,170,726 per store/$168 per sq. ft.

Free-standing

84

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Home Improvement, Retail

HomeBase, Inc. is the second largest operator of home improvement warehouse stores in the western U.S., with 85 stores in 10 states. It offers a broad assortment of brand name home improvement and building supply products at competitive prices to both do-it-yourself (DIY) and professional customers. The company’s growth strategy includes a remodeling plan that will improve product presentation, selection and shopping convenience. There are seventeen stores remaining to be remodeled. HomeBase’s expansion plan is oriented towards reinforcing its position in its existing markets and expanding selectively into contiguous markets. It recently opened two new stores in southern California, and expects to open eight to 10 more stores in the near future. In addition, HomeBase provides extensive and ongoing training for team members, and implemented a new pointof-sale system to improve efficiency and customer service. With virtually all stores in the same format, a new brandidentity advertising campaign is being launched in tandem with new techniques in direct and database marketing.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: HomeBase

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Allan P. Sherman, CEO Allan P. Sherman, Pres. William B. Langsdorf, Exec. VP/CFO David R. Kenshol, Sr. VP-Mktg. and Advertising Constance J. Tolleson, VP-Human Resources James A. Orr, VP-MIS Scott L. Richards, Exec. VP-Merch. Thomas F. Gallagher, Exec. VP-Store Oper. Peter A. Hutt, VP/Treas. Michael K. Ace, VP-Merch. Cornel Catuna, VP-Oper.

Phone: 949-442-5000 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 3345 Michelson Drive, Irvine, CA, 92612 Internet Address: www.homebase.ocm Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $1,442,300 1998 Sales: $1,477,400 1997 Sales: $4,375,500 1996 Sales: $1,452,696 1995 Sales: $1,448,776

Stock Ticker: HBI

1999 Profits: $22,400 1998 Profits: $11,200 1997 Profits: $76,700 1996 Profits: $37,858 1995 Profits: $48,661

Employees: 8,400

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $511,538 Second Exec. Salary: $505,769

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Remodeling plan/Expanding through acquisitions.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Suissa Miller, Los Angeles, CA

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

337

HOMELAND HOLDING CORP Industry Group Code: 4451 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 29

Profits: 33

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Homeland's conventional stores

25,000

$7,600,000 per store/$204 per sq. ft. (all stores)

Free-standing/In-line

10

Homeland's superstores Homeland's combo store

35000 45,000

Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line

47 12

140,000-310,000

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Grocery Stores/Supermarkets, Retail

Homeland Holding Corporation, through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Homeland Stores, Inc. is a leading supermarket chain in Oklahoma, southern Kansas and the Texas Panhandle region. The company operates in four distinct market places: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; Tulsa, Oklahoma; Amarillo, Texas; and certain rural areas of Oklahoma, Kansas and Texas. The company’s general business strategy is to continue to build and improve its current strengths which consist of high quality perishable departments, market leading position and competitive pricing, customer service, excellent locations and the Homeland Savings Card, a customer loyalty card program. Homeland is also able to effectively reach a large customer base with its weekly advertising inserts and radio and television media advertisements. In addition, the company is upgrading its stores by focusing its capital expenditures on projects that will improve the overall condition of stores. The firm is anticipating growth in the home meal replacement business through the development of hot and chilled meal solutions for lunch and dinner. Capital investment is being made to support the growth of these products and menus are being developed to match the quick meal and entertainment needs of its customers. Homeland Holding's plan involves reviewing marginal and unprofitable stores for closing and reviewing new sites, independent stores or new markets for growth in its market share.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Homeland Stores, Inc. Homeland Savings Card

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. John A. Shields, CEO John A.Shields, Pres. Larry W. Kordisch, CFO Steven M. Mason, VP-Mktg. Prentess E. Alletag, Jr., VP-Human Resources Terry M. Marczewski, VP/Controller/Asst. Sec.

Phone: 405-879-6600 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 2601 N.W. Expressway, Oklahoma City, OK, 73112 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $529,600 1997 Sales: $528,000 1996 Sales: $204,000 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: HMLD

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-10,600 1997 Profits: $-10,600 1996 Profits: $-3,100 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 4,340

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $172,115 Second Exec. Salary: $166,154

Bonus: $ Bonus: $150,000

Leading chain in Oklahoma, Kansas and Texas.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Ackerman McQueen, Inc., Oklahoma City, OK

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

338

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

HORIZON PHARMACIES INC Industry Group Code: 44611 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 10

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Horizon Pharmacies

3000-22000

Profits: 7

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Free-Standing

45

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Pharmacy Chain, Retail Home healthcare services Respiratory therapy Home medical equipment Nursing and para-professional services Infusion therapy

Horizon Pharmacies, Inc. owns and operates one of the top 100 retail pharmacy chains in the United States, with 24 stores located principally in the south central United States. Currently, the company’s primary source of revenue is the sale of prescription drugs. However, Horizon anticipates that prescription sales will continue to decrease as the company continues to expand its home healthcare and other non-pharmaceutical sales and services which have historically provided higher margins. In addition to prescription drugs and services, Horizon's retail pharmacies offer a broad range of over-the-counter medications, supplies and equipment, health and beauty care, cosmetics, gifts, greeting cards, convenience foods, cameras, photo supplies and processing services as well as other general merchandise. Some stores incorporate special features such as drive-through windows and free home delivery for customer convenience, optical departments, faxing, copying and package delivery services, fresh floral arrangements and soda fountains. The company also sells and leases home medical equipment and offers home healthcare services including, but not limited to, intravenous services and home oxygen therapy under the name Horizon Home Care. Horizon expects to acquire at least 35 new pharmacies and 8 new home medical equipment stores by the year 2000.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Horizon Home Care

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Ricky D. McCord, COO John Stogner, CFO John Stogner, Treas. Ricky D. McCord, Pres.

Phone: 972-736-2424 Fax: 972-736-2588 Toll-Free: Address: 275 West Princeton Drive, Princeton, TX, 75407 Internet Address: www.horizonrx.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $74,700 1997 Sales: $28,400 1996 Sales: $13,100 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: HZP

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-2,200 1997 Profits: $ 300 1996 Profits: $ 200 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

485

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $94,362 Second Exec. Salary: $88,526

Bonus: $21,000 Bonus: $19,757

Rapid growth through acquisition.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

339

HOSIERY CORPORATION OF AMERICA, INC. Industry Group Code: 45411 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 21

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 9

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Catalog only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Hoisery Products Manufacturing hosiery products

Hosiery Corporation of America, Inc. is engaged in the direct mail marketing, manufacturing and distribution of women’s sheer hosiery products to consumers throughout the U.S., and recently in the U.K. and Germany. The company’s product line includes six styles of sheer hosiery in nine different colors and six sizes, as well as knee-hi’s. The company’s Silkies brand name hosiery is marketed through a continuous product shipment program. The program involves mailing to customers a specially priced introductory hosiery offer, the acceptance of which enrolls customers in the program and results in additional shipments of hose being mailed on a regular and continuous basis upon payment of a prior shipment. In its most recent fiscal year, of Hosiery Corporation's manufacturing operations produced approximately 61 million pairs of hosiery, approximately 79% of the company’s requirements. The company shipped over 77 million pairs of hosiery last year and has approximately 1.4 million customers in its continuous product shipment program. The company relies on sophisticated statistical, regression, segmentation and other financial analyses to accurately target, test and acquire customers through direct mail solicitation.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Silkies

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. John F. Biagini, CEO Philip G. Whalen, Pres./COO Arthur Hughes, CFO/VP Darrell Edwards, VP/Dir.-Mktg. William J. Kelly, Sr. VP-Int'l Oper.

Phone: 215-244-1777 Fax: 215-245-1512 Toll-Free: Address: 3369 Progress Dr., Bensalem, PA, 19020 Internet Address: www.silkies.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $198,700 1997 Sales: $178,700 1996 Sales: $162,800 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: PRIVATE

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $13,500 1997 Profits: $11,600 1996 Profits: $4,300 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,087

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $431,919 Second Exec. Salary: $367,474

Bonus: $ Bonus: $350,000

Implements a direct mail solicitation that offers customers the opportunity to receive one free pair of hosiery with the purchase of two additional pairs, then enrolls them as regular customers.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

340

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

HOST MARRIOTT SERVICES CORPORATION Industry Group Code: 45322 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Direct marketing only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Airport Restaurant and Gift Shop Operations Airport merchandise concessions

Serving as the leading provider of food, beverage and merchandise concessions at airports, on tollroads and at other travel and entertainment venues, Host Mariott Corporation operates facilities at nearly every major commercial airport and tollroad in the United States. Through its two principal subsidiaries, Host International, Inc. and HostMariott Tollroads, Inc., the company’s operations span throughout the United States, The Netherlands, New Zealand, Australia and Canada. The company’s operations are grouped into three different business segments: airports travel plazas, shopping malls and entertainment. Host Mariott Corporation additionally operates several duty-free shops at assorted airports, or shops selling merchandise on a tax and duty-free basis. Airport lounges, mostly operating under the Premium Stock Airpub name, serve alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages together with selected food items. The company’s branded food and beverage concessions primarily feature well-known branded concessions such as Burger king, TCBY, Pizza Hut, Cinnabon, Chili’s and Taco Bell. Host Mariott Corporation is currently aggressively transforming its core airport markets from generic offerings to a blend of international and unique local branded concepts. The company is additionally commencing operations in Malaysia, and plans to continue expansion internationally and domestically.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Host International, Inc. Host Marriott Tollroads, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. William W. McCarten, Pres./COO Brian W. Bethers, Exec. VP/CFO Charles E. Powers, VP- Compensation and Human Resources Brian J. Gallant, VP/Controller Thomas G. O'Hare, Exec. VP- Oper. John J. McCarthy, Exec. VP-Business Dev. Lori Angell Cramp, VP/Treas.

Phone: 301-380-7000 Fax: 301-380-6332 Toll-Free: Address: 6600 Rockledge Dr., Bethesda, MD, 20817 Internet Address: www.hmscorp.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $1,377,600 1997 Sales: $1,284,600 1996 Sales: $1,277,700 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: HMT

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $24,100 1997 Profits: $20,800 1996 Profits: $14,300 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 24,100

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $485,000 Second Exec. Salary: $297,500

Bonus: $267,720 Bonus: $150,901

The leading operator of food, beverage and merchandise concessions at airports and other venues/Locations at every major commercial airport in the U.S.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

341

HOT TOPIC INC Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 49

Profits: 30

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Hot Topic

1,500

$634,244 per store/$538 per sq. ft.

Mall

158

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel-Men's, Retail Music-influenced women's apparel Accessories

Hot Topic, Inc. is a rapidly growing, mall-based specialty retailer of music-licensed and music-influenced apparel, accessories and gift items for young men and women principally between the ages of 12 and 22. The company believes teenagers throughout the United States have similar fashion preferences, largely as a result of the nationwide influence of MTV, music distribution, movies, television programs and fashion magazines. The company has developed a unique strategy focused exclusively on offering music-related merchandise in the mall environment. The company’s stores are designed to serve as a headquarters for music-licensed and musicinfluenced apparel, accessories and gift items. The company’s slogan Everything About The Music, reflects the company’s broad assortment of products, which currently consists of over 13,000 SKUs (stock-keeping units) in 22 different product categories. Hot Topic is committed to addressing the music-oriented lifestyles of its customers by building a culture throughout the organization that reflects a passion for music. Management diligently tracks alternative and rock music trends by regularly monitoring new music, music video releases and radio station air play, visiting night clubs around the country and attending concerts. Fiscal 1998 was a year of record sales and earnings for Hot Topic. Sales increased by 47% over the prior year to $103.4 million, the ninth consecutive year of over 40% sales growth for Hot Topic. Net income grew 32%.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Hot Topic

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Orval D. Madden, CEO Orval D. Madden, Pres. Jay A. Johnson, CFO Elizabeth M. McLaughlin, VP/General Merch. Mgr. Gregory J. Gillogly, VP-Oper.

Phone: 909-869-6373 Fax: 909-869-6374 Toll-Free: Address: 3410 Pomona Boulevard, Pomona, CA, 91768 Internet Address: www.hottopic.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $103,400 1998 Sales: $70,500 1997 Sales: $43,600 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: HOTT

1999 Profits: $6,000 1998 Profits: $4,500 1997 Profits: $2,600 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,147

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $300,000 Second Exec. Salary: $170,000

Bonus: $150,000 Bonus: $60,000

Caters specifically to the MTV crowd.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

342

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

IBM Industry Group Code: 3341A Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Direct marketing only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Computer and Software Products Computers Microelectronic technology Software Networking systems Information technology-related services E-commerce solutions and support IT department consulting and outsourcing

International Business Machines Corporation (IBM) develops, manufactures and sells advanced information processing products, including computers and microelectronic technology, software, networking systems and information technology-related services. The company’s results of operations depend upon successful development and marketing of new and innovative products and services. Rapid technological changes and shifts in customer demand resulting in unpredictable product transitions and shortened life cycles characterize its businesses. Recent business acquisitions include Unison Software, a systems management company, and Advantis, the U.S. data network services unit of the IBM Global Network. The firm is also a major stockholder of NetObjects, a website design software business. IBM's new products include DB2 Universal Database, a reinvigorated server line including the System/390 G4, the IBM ThinkPad, a mobile system, Lotus’s eSuite, a personal productivity application and the IBM IntelliStation, a Microsoft Windows NT-based workstation. The company’s breakthrough in copper microchips increases the capacity and speed of semiconductors. There are 50 issued and pending patents relating to the use of copper in chips. IBM’s hard-disk drives’ capacity has been quadrupled due to its patented giant magnetoresistive (GMR) head technology. This allowed the company to set a world record in storage density by packing more than 10 billion bits (10 gigabits) per square inch of disk surface. . The company is in the process of expanding its global networks of research laboratories into India, but plans to expand to other markets as well.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: IBM IBM Global Network Lotus Notes Tivoli DB2 universla Database System.390 G4 Nefinity PC Think Pad

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Louis V. Gerstner, Jr., CEO Lawrence R. Ricciardi, Sr. VP/CFO Abby F. Kohnstamm, VP-Corp. Mktg. J. Thomas Bouchard, Sr. VP-Human Resources Paul M. Horn, Sr. VP-Research Nicholas M. Donofrio, Nicholas M. Donofrio David B. Kalis, VP-Comm.

Phone: 914-499-1900 Fax: Toll-Free: 800-426-3333 Address: New Orchard Road, Armonk, NY, 10504 Internet Address: www.ibm.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $81,667 1997 Sales: $78,508 1996 Sales: $75,947 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: IBM

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $6,328 1997 Profits: $6,093 1996 Profits: $5,429 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 291,067

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $1,500,000 Second Exec. Salary: $575,000

Bonus: $4,500,000 Bonus: $825,000

Now receives approximately 25% of revenues from Internet-based e-commerce products and services, making it the world's leader in this booming field.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 4 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 7 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

343

IMALL INC Industry Group Code: 4541 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 16

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

on-line only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

E-shopping mall Hosts retail web sites Operates stuff.com Provides classified ad space

Through its one-stop e-shopping Internet site, iMall, Inc. receives around 30 million visitors per month, making it one of the busiest Internet malls on the web. The company hosts web sites for over 1,600 merchants selling just about everything under the sun, and also provides space for sellers to post classified ads. Additionally, iMall, Inc. operates Stuff.com, a product search engine and shopping conduit. The company’s revenues are derived from commissions earned on each sale, as well as through site hosting and maintenance fees charged to merchants. Ecommerce tools and consulting are also provided by iMall, Inc. to approximately 200,000 small to mid-sized companies.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Stuff.com

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Richard M. Rosenblatt, CEO Joseph Ruszkiewiczs, COO, EVP Anthony P. Mazzarella, CFO, EVP Dan Odette, Mktg. Phil Windley, Chief Tech. Officer Stephen W. Fulling, VP-Info. Tech. Services Anthony P. Mazzarella, Treas. Anthony P. Mazzarella, Secy. Steve Rossow, SVP Brian Ross, Mgr.- Investor Relations

Phone: 310-309-4000 Fax: 310-309-4106 Toll-Free: Address: 233 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 820, Santa Monica, CA, 90401 Internet Address: www.imall.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $1,600 1997 Sales: $16,800 1996 Sales: $16,000 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: IMAL

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $13,200 1997 Profits: $-4,700 1996 Profits: $ 100 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $ Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Operates through the profitable and popular medium of e-commerce

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

344

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

INGLES MARKETS INC Industry Group Code: 4451 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 19

Profits: 25

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Ingles Best Food Sav-Mor

40,000 40,038 40,038

$7,840,000 (for all stores)

Free-Standing/In-line Free-Standing/In-line Free-Standing/In-line

204 2 1

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Grocery Stores/Supermarkets, Retail Shipping centers

Ingles Markets, Incorporated is a leading supermarket chain, operating 207 supermarkets in Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and Alabama. Ingles supermarkets offer customers a wide variety of nationally advertised food products, including grocery, meat and dairy products, produce, frozen foods and other perishables and non-food products, health and beauty care products, general merchandise and private label items. To expand and modernize its store base, Ingles has invested in excess of $500 million over the past five years to update its existing stores and build new stores. The company’s new and remodeled supermarkets provide an enhanced level of customer convenience, including expanded perishable departments featuring home meal replacement items and an expanded selection of food and non-food items to provide a “one-stop” shopping experience. The company also operates two other formats of stores, Best Food and Sav-Mor, which accommodate smaller shopping areas and carry dry groceries, fresh meat and produce. The company’s growth plan consists mainly of improving existing supermarkets and modernizing its facilities.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Ingles

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Robert P. Ingle, CEO Vaughn C. Fisher, COO/Pres. Jack R. Ferguson, CFO/VP-Finance Cynthia L. Brooks, VP-Human Resources Edward J. Kolodzieski, CIO Edward J. Kolodzieski, VP-Strategic Planning

Phone: 828-669-2941 Fax: 704-669-3667 Toll-Free: Address: P.O. Box 6676, Asheville, NC, 28816 Internet Address: www.ingles-markets.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $1,647,200 1997 Sales: $1,536,000 1996 Sales: $1,472,600 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: IMKTA

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $4,200 1997 Profits: $19,900 1996 Profits: $20,700 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 13,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $283,308 Second Exec. Salary: $200,000

Bonus: $10,329 Bonus: $

Has a large market share in the areas it serves.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 4 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Alpha Group, Asheville, NC

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

345

INSIGHT ENTERPRISES INC Industry Group Code: 45411 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 6

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 7

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

On-line Only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Direct sales of computer products

Insight Enterprises, Inc. is a leading direct marketer of computers, hardware and software. The company markets primarily to small and medium-sized businesses comprised of 100 to 1,000 employees through a combination of a strong outbound telemarketing sales force, electronic commerce, targeted direct marketing and advertising in computer magazines and publications. Insight offers a broad line of more than 80,000 brand name products to customers in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom and Germany. Products are sold via the Internet at www.insight.com and by a staff of customer account executives through outbound telesales. The company’s growth strategy is to increase sales and earnings by increasing penetration of its existing customer base, leveraging its existing infrastructure, expanding its product offerings and customer base and utilizing emerging technologies. A large part of the company’s strategy is to increase its staff of account executives. The company has done so consistently, increasing by almost 75% the number of executives in the last year and 500% over the last five years.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Direct Alliance Corporation Insight Direct, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Eric J. Crown, CEO Timothy A. Crown, Pres. Stanley Laybourne, CFO Dennis A. Faggioni, CIO Stanley Laybourne, Treas.

Phone: 602-902-1001 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 6820 South Harl Avenue, Tempe, AZ, 85283 Internet Address: www.insight.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $1,002,800 1997 Sales: $627,700 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: NSIT

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $20,500 1997 Profits: $13,200 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 2,066

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $250,000 Second Exec. Salary: $215,000

Bonus: $111,879 Bonus: $52,980

Strong direct marketing sales force.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

346

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

INTERNATIONAL CUTLERY LTD Industry Group Code: 44229 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 9

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

International Cutlery

Profits: 6

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

$97,904 per store

Malls, Kiosks

26

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Linens/Housewares, Retail Electric shavers Household items

International Cutlery, Inc. operates cutlery retail outlets and retail cutlery gift stores and kiosks, or mini-stores, primarily in malls and transportation terminals throughout the United States. The company’s retail outlets offer a variety of cutlery, kitchen utensils, household items, shears and scissors, sporting knives, pocket knives, electrical shavers and related items. International Cutlery plans to offer related services such as knife sharpening and on-site repairs of electric shavers in many locations during the coming fiscal years. Kiosks are designed to market the company’s most popular merchandising and showcase fast-selling items. The company is currently strategically planning to emphasize the development and maintenance of its kiosk operations while at the same time seeking to open additional retail outlets. Locations are planned to expand first on the East Coast of the United States, then expand gradually. Currently, International Cutlery operates 19 locations, as it closed seven during fiscal 1998.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: International Cutlery Hoffritz

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Joel J. Silver, CEO Joel J. Silver, Pres. Joel J. Silver, CFO Lawrence N.Silver, VP-Merch. Lawrence N. Silver, VP-Oper. Lawrence N. Silver, Treas.

Phone: 212-924-7300 Fax: 212-627-5952 Toll-Free: Address: 127 W. 25th Street, New York, NY, 10001 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $2,500 1997 Sales: $2,500 1996 Sales: $1,600 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: ICUT

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-1,500 1997 Profits: $-2,300 1996 Profits: $-1,500 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

100

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $ Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Utilizes kiosks to showcase merchandise.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

347

INTERTAN INC Industry Group Code: 443 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 7

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

RadioShack Tandy Tandy Electronics Cantel

1,200-1,800 1,200-1,800 1,200-1,800 1,200-1,800

Profits: 15

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

In-line/Mall In-line/Mall In-line/Mall In-line/Mall

456 company/340 dealer 345 company, 171-dealer 340 54

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Electronics, Audio, and Appliance Stores-Retail Computers/accessories Telephones Cellular telephones Audio and video communication products Mail order

In June 1986, InterTAN, Inc. was incorporated in order to receive the assets and businesses of its former retail operations from Tandy Corporation. These assets included Canadian RadioShack, Australian Tandy Electronics and European Tandy operations. The company is principally engaged in the sale of consumer electronics products and services through companyoperated retail stores and dealer outlets throughout Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia and Europe. In addition to the aforementioned operations, InterTAN conducts Canadian business through Cantel Stores and retail operations centered on cellular telephone communications. The company currently operates 1,517 retail stores with small, strategic locations, usually in malls or shopping centers. In the United Kingdom, the company is currently testing the extension of its express store concept to include locations in high-traffic motorway centers. InterTAN is currently emphasizing product knowledge and helpfulness in store associates, as it believes that its associates are noted for and trusted because of those particular customer service assets. Recently, InterTAN closed 69 consistently underperforming stores during fiscal 1998 in the United Kingdom.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: InterTAN Australia Ltd. InterTAN Canada Ltd. InterTAN U.K. Limited RadioShack Tandy Electronics Tandy

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. James T. Nichols, CEO Brian E. Levy, Pres./COO James G. Gingerich, CFO/Sr. VP Douglas Saunders, VP/Corp. Controller

Phone: 817-348-9701 Fax: 817-332-3071 Toll-Free: Address: 201 Main Street, Suite 1805, Fort Worth, TX, 76102 Internet Address: www.intertan.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $541,900 1997 Sales: $519,300 1996 Sales: $506,400 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: ITN

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-12,800 1997 Profits: $-16,600 1996 Profits: $-2,200 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 4,100

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $444,760 Second Exec. Salary: $183,000

Bonus: $189,000 Bonus: $115,816

Has strong name recognition.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

348

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

INTIMATE BRANDS INC Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 4

Profits: 4

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Victoria's Secret

4,500-5,000

$2,206,272 per store/$504 per store

In-line/Mall

829

Bath & Body Works

1,500-2,000

$1,198,868 per store/$658 per sq. ft.

In-line/Mall

1061

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel-Women's, Retail Beauty supplies Personal care products Perfume Mail order

Intimate Brands, Inc. is principally engaged in the purchase, distribution and sale of lingerie, personal care products and women’s apparel. The company’s retail activities are conducted under various trade names through over 1,800 Victoria’s Secret and Bath & Body Works retail locations, including the catalogue division of Victoria’s Secret. The widely distributed catalogue offers women’s fashion apparel, lingerie, swimwear, shirts, blouses, sweaters, pants, skirts, coats, dresses and shoes throughout its over 426 million yearly copies. Additionally, lingerie and accessories, fragrances, bath, personal care products and specialty gift items are featured at retail locations. All companies are supported by Gryphon, an entity that designs, develops, formulates and sources toiletries, fragrances and other personal care products primarily for Intimate Brands. Gryphon does, however, develop private-label products for outside retailers. Intimate Brands, Inc., 83% owned by leading apparel retail group The Limited, Inc., experienced a 7.4% sales growth during fiscal 1999. The company believes in developing its associates and promoting from within.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Victoria's Secret Stores Victoria's Secret Catalogue Bath & Body Works Cacique Gryphon Development

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Leslie H. Wexner, CEO Philip E. Mallott, VP-Finance/CFO Beth M. Pritchard, Pres./CEO-Bath & Body Works Robert J. Ruttenberg, Pres.-Gryphon

Phone: 614-415-8000 Fax: 614-415-7278 Toll-Free: Address: 3 Limited Parkway, Columbus, OH, 43230 Internet Address: www.intimatebrands.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $3,885,800 1998 Sales: $3,617,856 1997 Sales: $2,997,340 1996 Sales: $2,516,555 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: IBI

1999 Profits: $400,200 1998 Profits: $288,900 1997 Profits: $258,210 1996 Profits: $204,059 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 50,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $1,046,154 Second Exec. Salary: $936,923

Bonus: $1,516,392 Bonus: $935,150

83%-owned by apparel industry leader The Limited, Inc.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 4 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

349

ITO YOKADO CO LTD Industry Group Code: 44512 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store:

Seven-Eleven- Japan Oshman's Sporting Goods StoresJapan Robinson's Department StoresJapan Denny's Restaurants- Japan

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

free-standing

7,600

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Convenience Stores-Retail Hypermarkets, discount stores and specialty stores Supermarkets Japanese Robinson's Department Stores Japanese Denny's Restaurants Japanese Oshman's Sporting Goods

One of Japan’s largest retailers, Ito-Yokado Co., Ltd. operates over 7,300 Seven-Eleven stores in Japan, as well as over 400 other retail stores. These stores range in nature from hypermarkets and supermarkets to discount stores and specialty stores. The company additionally owns 65% of Southland Corporation, the operator of 10,000 Seven-Eleven outlets in other parts of the world. Convenience stores comprise nearly two-thirds of ItoYokado’s income and bring in about one-third of the company’s sales. The Japanese franchises for Oshman’s Sporting Goods Stores, Robinson’s Department Stores and Denny’s Restaurants are additionally held by ItoYokado. The company, which experienced a .5% increase in sales growth during fiscal 1998, reached a net income figure of $558 million for that same fiscal year. Ito-Yokado is planning to open a chain of superstores in China during fiscal 1999.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Ito-Yokado Co., Ltd. Seven-Eleven- Japan Oshman's Sporting Goods Stores- Japan Robinson's Department Stores- Japan Denny's Restaurants- Japan Southland

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Toshifumi Ito, CEO Hyozo Morita, Exec. VP/COO Nobutake Sato, Exec. VP-Chief Planning Toshifumi Ito, Pres. Akihiko Hanawa, Sr. Managing Dir.

Phone: +81-3-3459-2111 Fax: +81-3-3434-8378 Toll-Free: Address: 1-4 Shibakoen 4-chome, Minato-ku, Tokyo, Japan 1058571, Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $24,818,300 1997 Sales: $24,949,300 1996 Sales: $27,543,400 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: IYCOY

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $558,800 1997 Profits: $614,300 1996 Profits: $730,300 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 39,245

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $ Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

One of Japan's largest retailers.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International: y

350

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

IWERKS ENTERTAINMENT INC Industry Group Code: 7131 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Direct Marketing Only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Theater Attractions and Ride Simulators, Retail Developers--entertainment complexes Theaters 3-D theater systems

Iwerks Entertainment, Inc. is a leading full-service provider of high-tech software-based theater attractions primarily designed for the out-of-home entertainment market. The company leads in providing film-based software in large format, ride simulation and specialty venue attractions as well. Advanced theater systems are combined with entertainment or educational software to create highimpact attractions, immersing participants in the action. Ride simulation, 3-D films, giant screen and video features are included in Iwerks Entertainment’s products. Film and video software for ride simulators and special format theaters is produced by the company, as is the provision of large format camera rental and related equipment rental. Iwerks Entertainment is currently involved in several joint ventures aimed at owning and operating multiple ride simulation theaters in the United States and Australia. The company currently is and will continue to evaluate new opportunities to participate in the operation of its fixed-base attractions in the future.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Iwerks TurboRide Iwerks CineDome Iwerks Video 360 Theater Iwerks Quatro Cinetropolis Encounter in the Third Dimension

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Charles Goldwater, CEO Charles Goldwater, Pres. Bruce Hinckley, Exec. VP/CFO Jack Shishido, Sr. VP-Worldwide Sales Jon Corfino, Sr. VP-Films

Phone: 818-841-7766 Fax: 818-840-6188 Toll-Free: Address: 4540 West Valerio Street, Burbank, CA, 91505-1046 Internet Address: www.iwerks.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $25,100 1997 Sales: $39,584 1996 Sales: $48,516 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: IWRK

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-11,600 1997 Profits: $-9,956 1996 Profits: $3,099 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

123

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $391,854 Second Exec. Salary: $174,855

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

A leader in the specialty theater attraction market.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

351

J BAKER INC Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 16

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

RX Uniforms Casual Male Big & Tall Work 'n Gear

2,430 3.260 2,430

Profits: 35

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Mall/In-line In-line Free-Standing/In-line

2 453 67

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel Stores, Retail Work and uniform wear and footwear Healthcare apparel

J. Baker, Inc. is a retailer of apparel and footwear in three separate markets through three separate chains. Casual Make Big & Tall stores sell fashion, casual and dress clothing to the big and tall man, while Work & Gear stores sell a wide variety of workwear and health care apparel. RX Uniforms stores sell exclusively health care apparel, and the company additionally retails shoes through selflicensed departments in several department stores. J. Baker, Inc.’s stores boast over 450 locations throughout the United States, especially in the Midwest and Northeast portions of the country. The company conducts a large portion of its business during the Easter and holiday seasons, especially where footwear sales are concerned. In 1997, J. Baker signed its retail footwear subsidiary, Parade of Shoes over to CHB Capital Partners of America, and that it now operates under their ownership alongside Payless Shoe Source. The company experienced a $34 million sales growth in fiscal 1998, achieving a sales figure of $592.2 million during that fiscal year. In its Licensed Shoe Departments, the firm leases space within department stores to run shoe departments. It pays a percentage of total sales as rent. These spaces are in such chains as Carsons, Uptons, Younkers and Goody's. Centralized information systems at the Canton, Massachusetts headquarters receive sales data from all of the stores and from all six divisions. Marketing, however, is done independently by each division. The company operates two massive, automated distribution centers that provide merchandise to the entire chain.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Licensed Discount Division Work 'N Gear Parade of Shoes Casual Male Big & Tall RX Uniforms

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Alan I. Weinstein, CEO Alan I. Weinstein, Pres. Philip G. Rosenberg, Sr. VP/CFO Phillip G. Rosenberg, Treas.

Phone: 781-828-9300 Fax: 781-821-0614 Toll-Free: Address: 555 Turnpike Street, Canton, MA, 02021 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $584,276 1998 Sales: $592,151 1997 Sales: $897,492 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: JBAK

1999 Profits: $2,034 1998 Profits: $3,813 1997 Profits: $-111,428 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 6,630

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $428,154 Second Exec. Salary: $264,615

Bonus: $66,667 Bonus: $

Great buying power for store locations throughout the U.S.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 3 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

352

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

J C PENNEY COMPANY INC Industry Group Code: 4521 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 4

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 4

Annual Sales Per Store:

JCPenney Eckerd Drugs Renner

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Mall In-line Mall

1,150 2,900 21

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Department Stores, Retail Drug stores Insurance Catalog sales Consumer banking--VISA & MasterCard

J.C. Penney Company, Inc. is a major retailer that provides merchandise and services to consumers through department stores that include catalog departments. The company markets predominantly family apparel, jewelry, shoes, accessories and home furnishings. In addition, the company, through its wholly owned subsidiary, Eckerd Corporation, operates a chain of approximately 2,780 drugstores located throughout the Northeast, Southeast, and sunbelt regions of the United States. The company also has several direct marketing insurance subsidiaries, the principal of which is J.C. Penney Life Insurance Company, which markets life, health, accident, and credit insurance as well as a growing portfolio of non-insurance products. The company currently operates 3,981 retail stores, comprised of 1,203 JCPenney department stores and 2,778 drugstores, in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, Mexico, and Chile, of which 282 JCPenney department stores and 16 drugstores were owned. J.C. Penney and Genovese Drug Stores, Inc. announced that they have signed a definitive agreement under which JCPenney will acquire Genovese. The Genovese drugstore chain, located in the New York metropolitan area, will become part of JCPenney’s Eckerd drugstore operation. With the acquisition of Genovese, which operates 141 drugstores in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut, Eckerd will have approximately 2,900 stores in 20 states across the Northeast, Midwest, and sunbelt.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: JCPenney Funding Corporation Thrift Drug, Inc. JCPenney Insurance Group, Inc. JCPenney Consumer Banking Services Eckerd Corporation Fay's Incorporated JCP Realty, Inc. JCP Receivables, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. James E. Oesterreicher, CEO John T. Cody, Jr., Pres./COO

Phone: 972-431-1000 Fax: 972-431-1977 Toll-Free: 800-953-9421 Address: P.O. Box 10001, Dallas, TX, 75301 Internet Address: www.jcpenney.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $30,678,000 1998 Sales: $29,618,000 1997 Sales: $23,649,000 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: JCP

1999 Profits: $594,000 1998 Profits: $566,000 1997 Profits: $565,000 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 260,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $312,235 Second Exec. Salary: $609,760

Bonus: $449,886 Bonus: $123,781

One of the nation's largest drug store chains since the acquisition of Eckerd/Very strong human resources/One of the most successful retail catalog operations in the industry.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 3 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Temerlin McClain, Irving, TX; TeleVest, Inc., New York, NY

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

353

J JILL GROUP INC (THE) Industry Group Code: 45411 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 20

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 13

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Mail order only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Catalog Only Mail-order womens clothing and accessories

The J. Jill Group, Inc., formerly DM Management Company, is a leading specialty direct marketer of high quality women’s apparel, accessories, shoes and gifts. The company currently markets its products through two discreet catalog concepts, J. Jill and Nicole Summers. These concepts are designed to appeal to active, affluent women age 35 and older, with each concept aimed at a distinct lifestyle segment within this demographic group. The company recently secured a commitment to provide financing for the company’s new distribution facility in Tilton, New Hampshire. The firm is also in the process of building a new operations and fulfillment center, and installing next-generation order-taking and warehouse management systems. DM’s recent changes include an improved management team and the phasing out of the Carroll Reed segment, which was incompatible with the company’s strategic emphasis. The company also merged its The Very Thing! segment into its Nicole Summers concept in order to increase the operating efficiencies of what had become two similar catalog concepts with significant overlap in their customer bases and product offerings. The company eliminated more than 50% of its redundant catalog mailings. It plans to invest the resulting savings in new customer acquisition.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: J. Jill, Ltd. Nicole Summers The Very Thing! Carroll Reed Aegis Venture Funds

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Gordon R. Cooke, CEO Gordon R. Cooke, Pres. Olga L. Conley, CFO/VP-Finance John J. Hayes, Exec. VP-Mktg. Carol A. Maher, VP-Human Resources Randy A. Dow, VP-Info. Services Peter J. Tulp, VP/Controller Olga L. Conley, Treas.

Phone: 617-740-2718 Fax: 617-749-8523 Toll-Free: Address: 25 Recreation Park Dr., Hingham, MA, 02043 Internet Address: www.dmmanagement.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $218,730 1997 Sales: $135,533 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: JILL

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $8,402 1997 Profits: $3,899 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

377

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $439,903 Second Exec. Salary: $218,176

Bonus: $437,500 Bonus: $110,500

Has three catalog concepts that cater to different types of women.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 6 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

354

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

JACOBSON STORES INC Industry Group Code: 4521 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 20

Profits: 18

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Jacobson's

23,000-199,000

$18,512,708 per store

In-line/Mall

24

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Department Stores, Retail

Founded in 1868, Jacobson Stores, Inc. operates a chain of high- quality, high-end department stores catering to affluent customers and known by the nickname Jake’s. The company places an emphasis on presenting quality merchandise, providing personalized customer services and showcasing highly staffed stores with attractive and comfortable features. Each store presents fashion apparel and accessories for women, men and children, and most offer decorative home accessories as well. Through its wholly-owned real estate subsidiary, Jacobson Stores Realty Company, Jacobson Stores, Inc. owns rather than leases most of its operations and locations. In addition to this real estate subsidiary, the company fully owns its financial subsidiary, Jacobson Credit Corporation. The company’s stores, which span throughout 24 cities in Michigan, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Ohio and Florida, maintain separate buyer staffs to accommodate regional customers’ needs. In 1997, the company closed three underperforming stores and closed its clearance center. Jacobson Stores, Inc. experienced a 3.5% sales growth during fiscal 1998, with a sales figure of $447.5 million.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Jacobson Stores Inc. Jacobson Stores Realty Company Jacobson Credit Corp.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. P. Gerald Mills, CEO P. Gerald Mills, Pres. Paul Gilbert, CFO James A. Rodefeld, Exec. VP- Mktg. and Stores Pamela J. Schauffler, VP- Human Resource Dev. Theodore R. Kolman, Sr. VP/General Merch. Mgr. Jim C. Ivester, VP-Oper.

Phone: 517-764-6400 Fax: 517-764-6427 Toll-Free: Address: 3333 Sargent Road, Jackson, MI, 49201-8847 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $444,300 1998 Sales: $447,500 1997 Sales: $432,500 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: JCBS

1999 Profits: $1,600 1998 Profits: $1,200 1997 Profits: $-11,500 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 4,600

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $295,000 Second Exec. Salary: $285,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Offers in-store events including fashion shows and wardrobing seminars.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

355

JAN BELL MARKETING INC Industry Group Code: 45411 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 18

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Jan Bell Mayor's Jewelers

260-275 2,000-10,000

Profits: 11

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Leased depts. in Sam's Clubs Mall/In-line

458 21

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Jewelry, Retail Perfumes and fragrances Sunglasses Writing instruments Collectibles

Jan Bell provides fine jewelry, watches, and certain other select non-jewelry consumer products to consumers, primarily through leased departments in Sam’s Clubs throughout the U.S. The company additionally operates six retail locations under the Manhattan Diamond name, but is currently reviewing those locations due to doubts concerning employed capital return. Jan Bell is, therefore, working on reworking its marketing strategy and general approach to these retail locations. Each of the company’s leased departments is merchandised with approximately 300 jewelry items, 100 watches, and 200 other consumer products, such as fragrances, sunglasses and collectibles. The company recently made changes to help it receive better operating results, including a $12 million expense reduction and initiation of more efficient usage of the company’s inventory. Jan Bell’s practice of operating through warehouse locations such as Sam’s Club allows it to offer to consumers its products, including gold, jewelencrusted accessories, at a significantly lower price than much of the company’s competition. . In February 1998, Jan Bell announced its execution of a letter of intent to acquire Mayor’s Jewelers, Inc.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Jan Bell Jewelry Depot Jewelry Depot Outlets Manhattan Diamond Outlet Mayor's Jewelers, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Issac Arguetty, CEO Marc Weinstein, COO/Sr. VP David Boudreau, CFO/Sr. VP William Grayson, Chief Merch. Officer/Sr. VP David Boudreau, Treas.

Phone: 954-846-2719 Fax: 954-846-2887 Toll-Free: Address: 13801 N.W. 14th Street, Sunrise, FL, 33323 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $361,000 1998 Sales: $247,900 1997 Sales: $243,100 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: JBM

1999 Profits: $17,200 1998 Profits: $10,000 1997 Profits: $ 800 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 2,628

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $360,000 Second Exec. Salary: $250,000

Bonus: $506,268 Bonus: $

Operates an exclusive leased department at all of industry giant Sam's Clubs.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

356

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

JENNIFER CONVERTIBLES INC Industry Group Code: 421 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 7

Profits: 7

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Jennifer Convertibles

3,000

In-line/Free-standing

Jennifer Leather Jennifer Living Room

4,000

In-line/Free-standing In-line

48 company-owned; 73licensed 34 2

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Furniture Stores, Retail Leather furniture Sofabeds

Jennifer Convertibles, Inc. owns and licenses the largest group of sofabed specialty retail stores in the United States. Operating under the subsidiary titles Jennifer Convertibles, Jennifer Leather and Jennifer Living Room, merchandise offered includes a complete line of sofabeds and companion pieces, loveseats, chairs and recliners. Designed and priced to appeal to a broad range of consumers, Jennifer Leather focuses on the sale of leather living room furniture as opposed to general upholstered and other furniture primarily offered by the additional Jennifer subsidiaries. During fiscal 1997, the company opened two test Jennifer Living Room stores, which sell a broad range of living room furniture, including furniture of the type sold in its other two store formats. Jennifer Convertibles and Jennifer Living Room’s target audience covers a broad socio-economic scale, with the company offering products ranging in price from $400 to $2,200. Jennifer Leather stores offer a variety of products ranging from $400 to $5,000, and appeal to the slightly more affluent customer, though the products are always reasonably priced. The company experienced a 14.1% sales growth during fiscal 1998, achieving a sales figure of $111.5 million for that fiscal period.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Jennifer Convertibles Jennifer Leather Jennifer Living Room JenniferHouse Bellissimo Collection Jennifer Sofabed

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Harley J. Greenfield, CEO Rami Abada, Pres./COO George J. Nadel, Exec. VP/CFO Kevin Mattler, VP-Store Oper. George J. Nadel, Treas. Leslie Falchook, VP-Admin.

Phone: 516-496-1900 Fax: 516-496-8380 Toll-Free: Address: 419 Crossway Park Drive, Woodbury, NY, 11797 Internet Address: www/jenniferfurniture.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $111,500 1997 Sales: $97,800 1996 Sales: $106,000 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: JENN

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $ 100 1997 Profits: $-3,100 1996 Profits: $-6,000 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

442

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $320,000 Second Exec. Salary: $240,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Specialized market niche/Owner of largest group of sofabed specialty retail stores in the U.S.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

357

JG INDUSTRIES INC Industry Group Code: 4521 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 22

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Goldblatt's

Profits: 20

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

$5,223,600 per store

In-line/Free-standing

10

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Department Stores, Retail

Founded in 1928 and originally operating under the Goldblatt Bros., Inc. name, JG Industries, Inc. operates nine discount stores in the Chicago metropolitan area and one store in Indiana. Goldblatt’s Department Stores offer branded and private-label merchandise, including men’s women’s, children’s and infant’s apparel, electronics, small appliances, housewares, hardware, cosmetics, notions, toys and sporting goods. Several locations additionally offer jewelry, shoe, millinery and optical departments. Since 1994, Goldblatt’s soft line goods have provided for the majority of sales. The department stores buy goods directly from domestic and international manufacturers and additionally though wholesalers. The company considers its supplier relationships to be strong, and continues to obtain favorable pricing and payment terms on purchases. JG Industries, Inc. has recently been closing locations in order to cut costs, terminating three locations in the last two years.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Goldblatt's Department Stores, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. William Hellman, CEO Clarence Farrar, COO/Pres. Clifford Guttman, CFO/VP Pam Egan, Dir.-Human Resources Lionel Goldblatt, VP/Pres.-Goldblatt's

Phone: 773-481-5410 Fax: 312-481-5415 Toll-Free: Address: 5630 W.Belmont Ave., Chicago, IL, 60634 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $52,200 1998 Sales: $53,500 1997 Sales: $60,200 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: JGIN

1999 Profits: $-1,000 1998 Profits: $-2,600 1997 Profits: $-2,200 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

670

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $200,000 Second Exec. Salary: $140,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Offers a diverse assortment of both nationally branded and private label merchandise.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

358

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

JO ANN STORES INC Industry Group Code: 45112 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Jo-Ann Fabrics and Crafts Jo-Ann Etc.

13,400 45,000

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Strip centers/Malls Strip centers/Malls

1,034

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Crafts, Retail

Founded in 1956, Jo-Ann Stores, Inc. is the largest fabric and craft retailer in the United States. The company’s 903 fabric and craft stores operate under the names of Jo-Ann Fabrics and Crafts, Jo-Ann Etc., Cloth World and New York Fabrics. The stores span throughout 48 states and offer a wide variety of competitively priced items. Among these are fashion, decorator, quilting and craft fabrics, notions, patterns, craft components, seasonal merchandise and silk and dried flowers. Jo-Ann Stores, Inc. recently opened its expanded research and development store in Ohio under the name Jo-Ann, Etc. This store is about three times larger than the company’s standard stores, and offers a significantly more diversified merchandise assortment and a wide array of different services and classes. Included in these services is merchandise demonstration and sewing lessons. Since the original location’s inception, six additional locations have been added. Jo-Ann Stores, Inc. recently acquired 77.2% of the outstanding common stock of House of Fabrics, Inc., as well as ClothWorld, a chain of fabric and craft notion stores. House of Fabrics, Inc. operates fabric and craft stores throughout the United States as well.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Jo-Ann Stores Jo-Ann Fabrics and Crafts Jo-Ann Etc. Cloth World New York Fabrics House of Fabrics, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Alan Rosskamm, CEO Alan Rosskamm, Pres. Brian P. Carney, Exec. VP/CFO Jane Aggers, Exec. VP-Mktg. Jane Aggers, Exec. VP-Merch. and Dist. David E. Bolen, Exec. VP-Business Dev. John Hermsen, Exec. VP-Stores

Phone: 330-656-2600 Fax: 330-463-6675 Toll-Free: Address: 5555 Darrow Rd., Hudson, OH, 444236 Internet Address: www.joann.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $1,242,900 1998 Sales: $975,000 1997 Sales: $929,000 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: JASA

1999 Profits: $13,600 1998 Profits: $30,900 1997 Profits: $24,600 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 16,400

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $ Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Largest fabric and craft retailer in the United States.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

359

JOS A BANK CLOTHIERS INC Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 36

Profits: 37

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Jos. A. Bank

6,800-8,200

$1,782,504 per store

In-line/Mall/Free-standing

91 company-owned/10 franchised/4 outlet

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel-Men's, Retail Mail-order

Jos. A. Bank Clothiers, Inc. retails, catalogs and manufactures men’s tailored and casual clothing and accessories. Products are sold exclusively under the Jos. A. Bank label through its 80 company-operated retail stores, 4 outlet stores and 9 franchise stores located throughout the Northeast, Midwest, South and Mid-Atlantic regions of the U.S., as well as through the company’s nationwide catalog operations. The company’s products are targeted at the male career professional, and its marketing emphasizes the Jos. A. Bank line of quality tailored and casual clothing. Recently, the company’s product line was modified to give current customers broader selections with the introduction of the Leadbetter Collection, endorsed by the country’s most prestigious golf instructor, David Leadbetter. In addition, a Cole-Hahn line of shoes was introduced in all stores. The Traveler Line was also introduced, with a full product rollout set for 1998. Made with Dupont-developed Lycra, Traveler suits provide customers with optimal functionality. Nine new stores were opened, including those in Meyerland, Texas, Willow Brook, Texas, and Oviedo, Florida.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: The Joseph A. Bank Mfg. Co., Inc. National Tailoring Services, Inc. Jos. Bank of Ft. Wayne, Inc. Jos. Bank of Fishkill, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. T.F. Finley, CEO Frank Tworecke, Pres./COO David E. Ullman, Exec. VP/CFO J. F. Timothy Carroll, Sr. VP-Corp. Sales John C. Harry, John C. Harry Gary W. Cejka, Sr. VP-Store Oper. Thomas E. Polley, Treas. David E. Ullman, Chief Admin. Officer

Phone: 410-239-2700 Fax: 410-239-5700 Toll-Free: Address: 500 Hanover Pike, Hampstead, MD, 21074 Internet Address: www.josbank.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $187,200 1998 Sales: $172,200 1997 Sales: $155,100 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: JOSB

1999 Profits: $5,800 1998 Profits: $ 700 1997 Profits: $ 300 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,470

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $467,870 Second Exec. Salary: $400,000

Bonus: $385,053 Bonus: $300,000

Sells exclusively under the Jos. A. Bank label.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

360

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

JUST FOR FEET INC Industry Group Code: 4482 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 5

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Just For Feet Athletic Attic and Imperial Sports

15,000-20,000 4,000-6,000

Profits: 4

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Free-standing/Mall In-line/Mall

120 141 Company-owned/42 franchised

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Shoes/Accessories, Retail

Just For Feet, Inc. is now the second largest specialty retailer in the athletic footwear industry, operating both large format superstores and smaller specialty stores, each specializing in brand-name athletic and outdoor footwear and apparel. The company also entered the specialty store segment of the athletic and outdoor footwear market with the acquisitions of Athletic Attic and Imperial Sports, privately owned retailers of athletic and outdoor footwear and apparel. In 1998, the company's presence was increased in the northeastern and midatlantic markets with the acquisition of Sneaker Stadium, Inc., an owner of 39 superstores. The company currently operates 120 company-owned Just For Feet superstores in 23 states and Puerto Rico and 141 company-owned specialty stores in 18 states. In fiscal 1998, Just For Feet opened 26 new superstores, renovated and reopened 21 of the former Sneaker Stadium superstores and opened 51 new specialty stores. Just For Feet plans to open approximately 25 new superstores and 60 new specialty stores in fiscal 1999. Just For Feet recently announced plans to accelerate the development and expansion of its on-line shopping site to provide enhanced customer service functions, increased product selection and a flexible order fulfillment capacity. The company sold more than 12,000,000 pairs of shoes in 1998.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Just For Feet Athletic Attic Imperial Sports Sneaker Stadium, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Harold Ruttenberg, CEO Helen M. Rockey, Pres./COO Eric L. Tyra, Exec. VP/CFO Steven Davis, VP-Mktg. David Meany, VP-Info. Systems Chuck Eggers, Exec. VP-Merch. Scott C. Wynne, Exec. VP-Oper. Alex M. Bond, Exec. VP-Strategic Dev.

Phone: 205-403-8000 Fax: 205-403-8200 Toll-Free: Address: 7400 Cahaba Valley Road, Birmingham, AL, 35242 Internet Address: www.feet.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $774,900 1998 Sales: $478,600 1997 Sales: $256,397 1996 Sales: $119,819 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: FEET

1999 Profits: $26,600 1998 Profits: $21,400 1997 Profits: $13,919 1996 Profits: $9,722 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 7,975

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $400,000 Second Exec. Salary: $271,153

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Carries most leading athletic footwear brands/Sells shoes for almost every sport at deep discounts/Operates in-store warehousing.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

361

K&G MEN'S CENTER INC Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 44

Profits: 27

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

K&G Men's Center K&G MenSmart T&C Men's Center T&C MenSmart MenSmart

15,000-20,000 15,000-20,000 15,000-20,000 15,000-20,000 15,000-20,000

$517 per sq. ft. (for all stores)

Free-standing Free-standing Free-standing Free-standing

33 (for all stores) incl. in above number 4 Incl. in above number Free-standing

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel-Men's, Retail

K&G Men’s Center, Inc. is a superstore retailer of men’s apparel and accessories. The company’s stores offer firstquality, current-season men’s apparel comparable in quality to traditional department and fine specialty stores, but at lower prices. The company’s merchandising strategy emphasizes broad and deep assortments across all major menswear categories, including tailored clothing, casual sportswear, dress furnishings, footwear and accessories. The company’s 28 stores operating in fifteen states are destination stores located primarily in low-cost warehouses easily accessible from major highways and thoroughfares. The K&G superstore is designed to project a no-frills, value-oriented, warehouse atmosphere. The company’s stores are open for business on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays only. K&G claims that it pioneered the weekend strategy in menswear as a means of responding to its customer’s shopping habits and of creating a sense of urgency to purchase. The company recently opened a new T&C’s Men’s Center, located in Arlington, Texas. The biggest news is the acquisition of this firm in mid-1999 by the rapidly growing Men's Wearhouse, Inc. of Houston, Texas.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: K&G Men's Center K&G MenSmart T&C Men's Center T&C MenSmart T&C Liquidators, Inc. K&G of Indiana, Inc. K&G Associates of New Jersey, Inc. Men's Wearhouse. Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Stephen H. Greenspan, Pres./CEO John C. Dancu, Sr. VP/COO John C. Dancu, CFO R. Scott Saban, VP-MIS and Store Construction Martin Schwartz, Sr. VP/General Merch. Mgr.

Phone: 404-351-7987 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 1225 Chattahoochee Avenue NW, Atlanta, GA, 30318 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $139,200 1998 Sales: $112,800 1997 Sales: $88,100 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: MENS

1999 Profits: $6,200 1998 Profits: $6,400 1997 Profits: $4,600 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

627

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $150,000 Second Exec. Salary: $120,000

Bonus: $25,000 Bonus: $

Stores located primarily in low-cost warehouses/Has been acquired by Men's Wearhouse.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

362

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

KIDS STUFF INC Industry Group Code: 44813 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 3

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Catalog Only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel-Children's, Retail Safety products for children and the family Toys Bedding Strollers Car seats

Kids Stuff, Inc. operates as a direct marketer of safetyoriented children’s products, and publishes two catalogs with an emphasis on children’s hardgood products from birth to age three. The only catalog in the United States dedicated to child safety, child-proofing the home and safety-related products for the family, the company has published Perfectly Safe: The Catalog For Parents Who Care since 1990. The catalog has circulated over 20 million catalogs and has helped to childproof over 350,000 homes since its inception. Kids Stuff, Inc introduced its second catalog, Jeannie’s Kids Club in 1995 in order to broaden its market and to introduce a new marketing concept in children’s products. This new marketing concept involves offering parents of young children membership to the club, thus saving up to 60% off products similar to full-priced items in other children’s catalogs. Recently, the company acquired The Natural Baby Catalog from The Natural Baby Company, Inc., an operation specializing in natural fiber children’s products from prenatal to age three. Kids Stuff, Inc. additionally consolidated operations with this company.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Kids Stuff, Inc. Perfectly Safe, The Catalog For Parents Who Care Jeannie's Kids Club The Natural Baby Catalog Perfectly Safe Guarantee The Natural Baby Co., Inc. Perfectly Safe

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. William L. Miller, CEO Jeanne E. Miller, Pres. William L. Miller, CFO

Phone: 330-492-8090 Fax: 330-492-8290 Toll-Free: Address: 4450 Belden Village St., NW Ste. 406, Canton, OH, 44718 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $14,200 1997 Sales: $11,000 1996 Sales: $6,600 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: KDST

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $ 1997 Profits: $ 100 1996 Profits: $- 500 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

47

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $125,000 Second Exec. Salary: $90,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Safety-oriented products/Obly United States catalog devoted entirely to child safety.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

363

KMART CORPORATION Industry Group Code: 4521 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 3

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Kmart Super Kmart Centers Big Kmart

40,000-180,000 135,000-190,000

Profits: 8

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Free-standing/In-line Free-standing Free-Standing/In-line

2,161 102 1,245

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Department Stores, Retail Building materials

Kmart Corporation is one of the world’s largest mass merchandise retailers. The company operates in the general merchandise retailing industry through 2,154 Kmart discount stores with locations in each of the 50 United States, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Guam, including 99 Super Kmart Centers, all located in the United States. Traditional Kmart general merchandise stores range from 40,000 to 120,000 square feet with a majority of modernized stores ranging from 85,000 to 120,000 square feet. The Big Kmart format was rolled out to an additional 458 stores, bringing the total for the chain to 670. Super Kmart Centers feature a full line of general merchandise and groceries as well as a variety of ancillary services including video rentals, dry cleaning, hair care, optical and floral shops. The company recently opened 45 new stores, and the Big Kmart prototype was recently introduced. The company divested Builders Square, Kmart Canada and Kmart Mexico, completing one of its largest corporate restructurings. New products also recently debuted, including the Martha Stewart Everyday and Sesame Street lines. An electronic swipe card called the Kmart Cash Card was introduced that replaces Kmart’s paper gift certificates and can be used as an AT&T calling card. The first-ever toy catalog for Kmart was also introduced. On-line shopping and additional electronic in-store services are another avenue the company is introducing to shoppers. On-line application for the Kmart Credit Card was also brought forth. The average age of a Kmart shopper is 45-49 and Kmart's customers household income is approximately $30,000 to $35,000 with an average shopping ticket of $24.00.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Kmart Super Kmart Builders Square Kmart Canada Limited

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Floyd Hall, CEO Floyd Hall, Pres. Martin E. Welch III, Sr. VP/CFO Larry C. Davis, VP-Advertising Warren F. Cooper, Exec. VP-Human Resources D. W. Keeble, Exec. VP-Store Oper. Shawn Kahle, VP-Corp. Affairs W.F. Cooper, VP-Admin.

Phone: 810-643-1000 Fax: 810-643-5249 Toll-Free: Address: 3100 West Big Beaver Road, Troy, MI, 48084 Internet Address: www.kmart.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $33,674,000 1998 Sales: $32,183,000 1997 Sales: $31,437,000 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: KM

1999 Profits: $518,000 1998 Profits: $249,000 1997 Profits: $-220,000 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 275,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $1,300,000 Second Exec. Salary: $650,000

Bonus: $1,379,000 Bonus: $523,400

One of the world's largest mass merchandise retailers.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Castor Advertising Corp., New York, NY; Campbell Mithun Esty, Minneapolis, MN; Meridian Retail, Troy, MI; Don Coleman Advertising, Inc., Southfield, MI

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

364

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

KOHL'S CORP Industry Group Code: 4521 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 11

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Kohl's

Profits: 11

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

$16,290,986 per store

In-line/Mall/Free-standing

2265

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Department Stores, Retail

Kohl’s Corporation currently operates 182 family oriented specialty department stores throughout the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions of the United States. Kohl’s department stores focus on providing the customer with quality national brand merchandise at an exceptional value. Merchandise includes moderately priced apparel, shoes, accessories, soft home products and housewares. Kohl’s centers its pricing strategy around a culture focused on maintaining a low cost structure, and emphasizes the importance of a unique store format, lean staffing levels, sophisticated management information systems and operating efficiencies resulting from centralized buying, advertising and distribution. Since its inception in 1986, Kohl’s has expanded its business from 40 to 182 stores by both acquiring and converting pre-existing stores and by opening new stores. The company plans to continue this growth process, and believes there is substantial opportunity for further growth. Kohl’s intends to open 32 new stores in the upcoming fiscal year. Currently, the company is attracting new and holding on to existing customers that might otherwise go to traditional department stores by expanding the infants and toddlers lines and the adding a wider selection of fragrances and jewelry. Kohl's offers associate training programs at every level of employment which emphasize Kohl's key philosopy: empowering associates to put the customer first. From new associate training and point-of-sale-training to middle management and executive level seminars, the company's goal is to fully support every associate. Kohl's has an inhouse video production studio which produces educational videos on topics including associate benefits, customer service and seasonal merchandising programs.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Kohl's

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. William S. Kellogg, CEO John F. Herma, COO Arlene Meier, Exec. VP/CFO Gary Vasques, Exec. VP-Mktg. Kevin B. Mansell, Exec. VP/General Merch. Mgr. Jay H. Baker, Pres.

Phone: 414-703-7000 Fax: 414-783-6501 Toll-Free: Address: N56 W17000 Ridgewood Drive, Menomonee Falls, WI, 53051 Internet Address: http://ntl.irin.com/irin/Detail.CFM/kss Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $3,681,800 1998 Sales: $3,060,100 1997 Sales: $2,388,221 1996 Sales: $1,925,669 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: KSS

1999 Profits: $192,300 1998 Profits: $141,300 1997 Profits: $102,478 1996 Profits: $72,652 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 32,200

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $1,024,831 Second Exec. Salary: $873,050

Bonus: $353,468 Bonus: $301,118

Moderately priced merchandise/Unique store format.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: J. Walter Thompson U.S.A., Inc., Detroit, MI

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

365

KROGER CO (THE) Industry Group Code: 4451 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Kroger Dillon Food Stores King Soopers Fry's Food Stores Sav-Mor City Market

52,118 52,118 52,118 52,118 52,118 52,118

Profits: 4

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

In-line/Free-standing In-line/Free-standing In-line/Free-standing In-line/Free-standing In-line/Free-standing In-line /Free-standing

1,145 1,062 (for all stores) Incl. in above number Incl. in above number Incl. in above number

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Grocery Stores/Supermarkets, Retail Convenience stores

The Kroger Co. is the largest supermarket operator in the United States. The company operates approximately 1,392 supermarkets under six names along with 816 convenience stores under six banners. Kroger supermarkets make up over 80% of the company’s stores, with the remaining supermarkets operated by a subsidiary under the Dillon, King Soopers, Fry’s Food, Gerbes, City Market and Sav-Mor names. The company’s convenience stores are operated either directly or through franchise agreements with the company’s Dillon subsidiary under the names Kwik Shop, Quik Stop, Turkey Hill, Loaf ‘N Jug, Mini Mart and Tom Thumb. The company’s supermarket operations are supported by 35 manufacturing plants producing Kroger-label products and custom products for outside customers. In the last year, Kroger opened, acquired, relocated or expanded 96 stores and remodeled approximately 100 other stores. During 1999, Kroger completed the acquisition of with Fred Meyer, Inc., an operator of more than 800 supermarkets and multidepartment stores. The newly formed company will operate as Kroger. This boosts the total number of stores to about 2,200, and brings total projected revenues to $43 billion per year. This puts Kroger well ahead of number two chain Albertsons, which will have about $36 billion in annual sales after its intended acquisition of American Stores, Inc.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Fred Meyer, Inc. Dillon Companies, Inc. Foodland Distributors Tom Thumb Turkey Hill Dillon Food Stores King Soopers Sav-Mor

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Joseph A. Pichler, CEO David B. Dillon, COO/Pres. W. Rodney McMullen, CFO Michael S. Heschel, Exec. VP/CIO Ronald R. Rice, Ronald R. Rice

Phone: 513-762-4000 Fax: 513-762-4454 Toll-Free: 800-257-6437 Address: 1014 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OH, 45202 Internet Address: www.krogerusa.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $28,203,300 1997 Sales: $26,567,300 1996 Sales: $25,170,900 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: KR

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $410,800 1997 Profits: $411,600 1996 Profits: $349,800 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 160,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $560,385 Second Exec. Salary: $409,615

Bonus: $634,550 Bonus: $407,925

Nation's largest supermarket operator measured by total sales/Has stores in both the supermarket and convenience store formats.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

366

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

LAMONTS APPAREL INC Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 34

Profits: 47

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Lamonts

47,000

$5,515,394 per store/$117 per sq. ft.

Free-Standing/In-line/Mall

38

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel Stores, Retail Home accessories

Founded in 1967, Lamonts Apparel, Inc. operates in the Pacific Northwest as a moderately priced, casual family apparel and home accessories retailer appealing to valueminded customers. The company maintains a loyal company base by providing a unique mix of merchandise at highly competitive prices. Lamonts distributes and sells merchandise from approximately 1,200 suppliers of nationally recognized branded products through its headquarters in Seattle, Washington. Among the nationally recognized brands sold at Lamonts stores is the company’s private label brand, Northwest Outfitters. The company currently operates 38 stores, primarily in hightraffic regional and community malls. Its facilities range throughout Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, Utah and Washington. Recently, the company undertook a reorganization in which it improved its operating performance and achieved significant increases in comparable-store sales growth and earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization. Currently, the management of Lamonts Apparel, Inc. is implementing several new business strategies to achieve goals for the upcoming fiscal years. Among these goals are continued growth n sales, further reductions in operating expenses, expansion of higher margin product lines and broadening of the company’s customer base through new promotions and improved credit card servicing.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Lamonts Northwest Outfitters

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Alan R. Schlesinger, CEO Alan R. Schlesinger, Pres. Debbie A. Brownfield, Exec. VP/CFO E. H. Bulen, Sr. VP/General Merch. Mgr. Loren R. Rothschild, Chief Admin. Officer Debbie A. Brownfield, Treas. Gary A. Grossblatt, Sr. VP/General Merch. Mgr.

Phone: 206-814-5700 Fax: 206-814-1093 Toll-Free: Address: 12413 Willows Road S.E., Kirkland, WA, 98034 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $209,600 1998 Sales: $201,600 1997 Sales: $203,600 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: LMNTQ

1999 Profits: $-4,500 1998 Profits: $-16,900 1997 Profits: $-17,300 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,500

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $450,000 Second Exec. Salary: $240,000

Bonus: $675,000 Bonus: $187,000

Well recognized in its region.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 5 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

367

LANDS END INC Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 8

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 7

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Catalog Only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel-Mail-Order, Retail

Lands’ End, Inc. is a leading direct merchant of traditionally styled, casual clothing for men, women and children, accessories, domestics, shoes and soft luggage. The company believes that it strives to provide products of exceptional quality with a commitment to customer service and an unconditional guarantee. Lands’ End offers its products principally through regular mailings of its monthly primary catalogs and its specialty catalogs. The company currently has a mailing list of 27.2 million persons and an active customer list of 9.6 million persons. The company’s growth strategy has three key elements, increasing sales by expanding customer its customer base and improving merchandise offerings, generating additional sales by making targeted mailings of its specialty catalogs, offering products on the Internet, and actively pursuing merchandising and marketing in the U.K., Japan and Germany. Lands End has recently realized the potential of Internet sales, and recently appointed David Zentmyer vice president and managing director of Internet sales. Zentmyer was formerly vice president and managing director of Corporate Sales for Lands End. Even though the company has experienced some turnover with the CEO position, 85% of the employee's from 1993 have remained with the company and enjoy an on-site fitness center and swimming pool.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Land's End The Territory Ahead Corporate Sales Willis & Geiger Kids Coming Home Beyond Buttondowns

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Michael J. Smith, CEO Stephen A. Orum, COO Michael P. Atkin, VP-Mktg. John P. Loranger, VP-Info. Services Francis P. Schaecher, Sr. VP-Oper. Bradley K. Johnson, VP-Admin. Michael J. Smith, Pres.

Phone: 608-935-9341 Fax: 608-935-4260 Toll-Free: 800-356-4444 Address: Lands' End Lane, Dodgeville, WI, 53595 Internet Address: www.landsend.com Notes/Other Info: [email protected]

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $1,371,400 1998 Sales: $1,263,600 1997 Sales: $1,118,700 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: LE

1999 Profits: $31,200 1998 Profits: $64,200 1997 Profits: $51,000 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 9,200

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $481,250 Second Exec. Salary: $437,500

Bonus: $493,281 Bonus: $448,438

Continues to acquire and develop catalog concepts.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 7 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: The Peer Group, Dodgeville, WI; Biederman, Kelly & Shaffer, Inc., New York, NY; Paradigm Interactive, Atlanta, GA

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International: y

368

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

LECHTERS INC Industry Group Code: 44229 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 4

Profits: 7

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Lechters Housewares Famous Brand Housewares Outlet Cost Less Home Store

3,000-6,000 4,000 20,000-25,000

$189 per sq. ft. (for all stores)

Mall/In-line In-line In-line

443 134 1

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Linens/Housewares, Retail Small electronics Decorative houseware

Lechters, Inc. is a specialty housewares retailer, operating approximately 626 stores in 44 states and continuing to expand. Lechters carries popular national brands, as well as its own private brands, under the names of Cooks Club, Simple Solutions and Regent Gallery, accounting for onethird of sales. Recent business developments include transitioning 271 Lechters Housewares stores, which includes a new sign package, and reorganizing to permanently feature the company’s food preparation and service lines. Lechters Housewares stores are merchandised and marketed to a large cross section of customers typically found in high-traffic, regional shopping malls having at least two major department stores as anchors. The Lechters Housewares product line is broadly defined as basic housewares and decorative housewares. The purpose of Famous Brands Housewares Outlet is to become the leading retailer of offprice housewares in outlet centers and the preferred retailer for U.S. housewares manufacturers to liquidate their excess, discontinued and slow-selling inventory. The assortment of off-price merchandise is broader than the assortment offered in Lechters Housewares. Lechters has established an open door policy throughout the company, and introduced e-mail to speed up the process of communication. The company has introduced formal training programs and career development opportunities. Lechter provides employees with Lecters Kitchen Tools, a list of priority items, including profit information and sales ranking for each product, enabling associates to become more effective in their jobs. Lechters has an internal newsletter, New Kitchen Talk, which it distributes nine times a year.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Lechters The Kitchen Place Famous Brands Housewares Outlet Regent Gallery Cooks Club Perfect Bake Simple Solutions

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Donald Jonas, CEO Donald Jonas, Pres. John W. Smolak, Sr. VP/CFO James Shea, Sr. VP-Mktg. Robert J. Harloe, Sr. VP-Human Resources James A. Shea, VP/General Merch. Mgr. Dennis Hickey, Sr. VP-Stores

Phone: 973-481-1100

Fax: 973-481-5493/973-4815364 Recruiting

Toll-Free: Address: 1 Cape May Street, Harrison, NJ, 07029 Internet Address: www.lechters.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $428,200 1998 Sales: $445,300 1997 Sales: $441,200 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: LECH

1999 Profits: $-5,700 1998 Profits: $-3,800 1997 Profits: $3,300 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 6,311

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $308,954 Second Exec. Salary: $258,582

Bonus: $12,500 Bonus: $12,500

Focus on housewares/Maintains a well-structured assortment of merchandise.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

369

LESLIE'S POOLMART Industry Group Code: 4442 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Profits: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Leslie's Swimming Pool Supplies

4,000

$800,389 per store/$200 per sq. ft.

Free-Standing/In-line

316

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Swimming Pool Equiment/Supplies, Retail Mail-order Recreational pool items

Leslie’s Poolmart, Inc. is the leading national specialty retailer of swimming pool supplies and related products. Consisting mostly of chemicals, equipment, cleaning accessories, parts, fun, safety and fitness-oriented recreational items, the company operates 316 retail stores in 28 states. A mail order catalog displaying these items exists as well, and is sent to select pool owners across the United States. The company’s huge assortment of high quality products set at competitive prices offsets it from the competition considerably, as does the company’s educated sales personnel staff. The Leslie Pool Supplies name is among the most recognized in the United States for quality pool products. The company currently plans to continue emphasizing its catalog the promotion of its brand name and the excellence of its customer service. The catalogs are additionally key in providing the company with buying efficiencies and, when coupled with information from its retail stores, in determining site selection for new stores. The company plans to expand through opening several locations in the coming fiscal years.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Leslie's Swimming Pool Supplies Leslie's Poolmart

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Brian P. McDermott, CEO/Pres. Murray H. Dashe, COO Robert D. Olsen, Exec. VP/CFO John T. Ball, Sr. VP-Mktg. John T. Ball, VP-Merch.

Phone: 818-993-4212 Fax: 818-349-1059 Toll-Free: Address: 20630 Plummer Street, Chatsworth, CA, 91311 Internet Address: www.lesliespool.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $252,900 1997 Sales: $196,000 1996 Sales: $191,600 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: LESL

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $2,800 1997 Profits: $5,500 1996 Profits: $3,900 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,906

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $412,885 Second Exec. Salary: $277,089

Bonus: $76,875 Bonus: $51,563

Located in areas with high concentrations of swimming pools/One of the largest pool supply mail order businesses in the country.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

370

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

LET'S TALK CELL & WIRE Industry Group Code: 443 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 12

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 10

Annual Sales Per Store:

Let's Talk Cellular & Wireless, Inc.

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Mall/Strip center

250

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Electronics, Audio, and Appliance Stores-Retail Direct TV satellite systems Fax machines

Let’s Talk Cellular & Wireless, Inc. operates over 250 wireless communication products stores that are dotted throughout 20 of the United States and Puerto Rico. The stores are located mostly in malls, and offer a variety of communication products. Among these are cellular phones, pagers, direct TV satellite systems, fax machines and other items, combining to form a force of over 1,000 different products per store. In addition to retailing, the company provides products wholesale to distributors, carriers and independent retailers. Let’s Talk Cellular & Wireless additionally gains profits from activation commissions for wireless products. The firm, started in 1989, experienced a $0.2 million net increase during fiscal 1998 and a $307.0 million sales increase during that same fiscal year.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Let's Talk Cellular & Wireless

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. David H. Eisenberg, CEO Brett Beveridge, Pres. Daniel M. Cammarata, CFO Richard Berglund, VP-Sales

Phone: 305-358-8255 Fax: 305-358-9068 Toll-Free: Address: 800 Brickell Ave., Miami, FL, 33131 Internet Address: www.letstalk.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $122,487 1997 Sales: $30,062 1996 Sales: $13,593 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: LTCW

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $- 267 1997 Profits: $- 46 1996 Profits: $ 66 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

524

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $ Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Offers a variety of cellular communication products.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

371

LILLIAN VERNON CORPORATION Industry Group Code: 45411 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 17

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 12

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Mail order only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Mail order gifts and housewares Mail-order-household products Mail-order-gardening products Mail-order-kitchen products Mail-order-Christmas products Mail-order-children's products Retail-gift, household & children's products

Lillian Vernon Corporation has been marketing gift, household, gardening, kitchen, Christmas and children’s products for over 47 years through its specialty catalogs. The company’s nine catalog titles include Lillian Vernon, Lillian Vernon Kitchen, Lilly’s Kids, Lillian Vernon Personalized gift, Lillian Vernon Gardening, Lillian Vernon Favorites, Lillian Vernon Neat Ideas For An Organized Life, Lillian Vernon Christmas Memories and Lillian Vernon Private Sale. During fiscal 1998, the company mailed over 178 million catalogs in 34 editions, received over 4.9 million orders and introduced 3,000 new products. Lillian Vernon Corporation additionally has a Special Markets Wholesale Division and 15 outlet stores. The company’s revenues and earnings both increased during fiscal 1998, and sales per catalog rose over 7% for the year, with a small increase in circulation. Recently, the company implemented several strategic merchandising and marketing initiatives designed to strengthen its leadership role in the mail order industry. Among these initiatives implemented was the launch of the Lillian Vernon Gardening catalog, an enhancement of the company’s position as the leading catalog for personalized products in America, strengthened sales, the continued building of strong brand-name recognition and the increase of Lillian Vernon outlet stores to number 15. These recently implemented strategies will continue to help the company grow into the future.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Lillian Vernon's Personalized Gift Lillian Vernon's Christmas Memories Lillian Vernon's Private Sale Lillian Vernon Kitchen Lillian Vernon's Neat Ideas Lillian Vernon's Favorites Lillian Vernon Gardening Lilly's Kids

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Lillian Vernon, CEO Howard P. Goldberg, Pres./COO Robert S. Mednick, VP/CFO Kevin A. Green, Sr. VP-Mktg. William L. Sharkey, Jr., VP- Human Resources Paul C. Pecorin, Sr. VP/CIO Susan C. Handler, VP/Corp. Controller Laura L. Zambano, Exec. VP-Merch. Ralph J. Thomann, Sr. VP-Oper. David C. Hochberg, VP-Public Affairs

Phone: 914-576-6400 Fax: 914-576-5740 Toll-Free: 800-285-5555 Address: 543 Main Street, New Rochelle, NY, 10801 Internet Address: www.lillianvernon.com Notes/Other Info: America Online - Keyword Lillian Vernon

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $255,200 1998 Sales: $258,200 1997 Sales: $240,100 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: LVC

1999 Profits: $3,100 1998 Profits: $9,000 1997 Profits: $5,400 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,500

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $520,000 Second Exec. Salary: $350,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $38,000

Has developed a proprietary customer data base.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 8 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

372

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

LIMITED INC (THE) Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Limited Express Lerner New York Lane Bryant Structure Victoria's Secret

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

$1,373,865 per store $1,994,301 per store $1,203,500 $1,278,082 per store $1,146,616 per store $2,040,100

Mall Mall Mall Mall Mall Mall

551 702 643 730 532 829

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel Stores, Retail Women's apparel Men's apparel Children's apparel Catalogs Lingerie Fragrances Cosmetics

The Limited, Inc. is a virtual giant in the retail apparel business, retailing women’s apparel and lingerie, men’s apparel, personal care products, children’s apparel and a wide variety of accessories, fragrances and sporting goods. The company owns almost all of the American mall mainstay stores—The Limited, Limited Too, Express, Structure, Bath & Body Works, Lerner New York, Lane Bryant, Victoria’s Secret, Abercrombie & Fitch, Gaylan’s and Henri Bendel’s. Of these, The Limited, The Limited Too, Express, Lane Bryant, Henri Bendel and Lerner New York sell exclusively women’s apparel and accessories, with Lane Bryant serving as a plus size store and Limited Too as a children’s apparel store. Structure sells exclusively men’s apparel, while Abercrombie & Fitch sells apparel for both sexes. Gaylan’s retails sporting goods, Bath & Body Works offers an assortment of cosmetics and personal care products for both men, women, children and babies, and Victoria’s Secret is well known as the most luxurious lingerie operation on the market today. The Limited, Inc. owns Mast Industries, Inc., a contract manufacturer, Gryphon Development, Inc. and Intimate Brands, Inc. This retail giant continues to aggressively push its brands, market its products, expand its customer base and dominate malls and shopping centers across the world.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Abercrombie & Fitch Co. Galyan's Trading Co. Structure Bath & Body Works Lerner New York Lane Bryant Victoria's Secret Express

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Leslie H. Wexner, CEO Leslie H. Wexner, Pres. V. Ann Hailey, Exec. VP/CFO Arnold F. Kanarick, VP/Chief Human Resources Officer Kenneth B. Gilman, Chief Admin. Officer Andrea Weiss, Exec. VP/Chief Stores Officer Martin Trust, Pres./CEO-Mast Industries, Inc.

Phone: 614-479-7000 Fax: 614-479-7080 Toll-Free: Address: P.O. Box 16000, Columbus, OH, 43216 Internet Address: www.limited.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $9,346,900 1998 Sales: $9,188,800 1997 Sales: $8,644,800 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: LTD

1999 Profits: $2,053,600 1998 Profits: $2,124,700 1997 Profits: $1,848,500 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 123,100

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $1,046,154 Second Exec. Salary: $936,923

Bonus: $1,519,392 Bonus: $935,150

Moderately-priced fashion under The Limited's own labels.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Sisman Design, New York, NY; Harte-Hanks Direct, New York, NY

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

373

LINENS N THINGS INC Industry Group Code: 44229 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Profits: 3

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Linens 'n Things - Superstores

35,000 - 40,000

$5,439,765 per store

Free-standing/In-line

196

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Linens/Housewares, Retail Home accessories Home textiles

Linens ‘n Things, Inc. is one of the leading large format retailers of home textiles, housewares and home accessories in the United States, operating 176 stores in 37 states, 153 of which are superstores with another 23 smaller traditional stores. The company offers over 25,000 items in its superstores, including a broad selection of high quality brand name bedding, towels, and pillows along with housewares and home accessories. Linens ‘n Things, Inc. also sells its own private label merchandise under the label LNT. Linens ’n Things continues to focus on its superstore format introduced in 1990; this focus has resulted in the closing or relocation of 118 of the company’s traditional stores and an increase of well over 300% in the company’s gross square footage, while only increasing its store base by 22%. Utilizing this format, the company has also successfully balanced its merchandise mix from being driven primarily by the linens side of its business to a fuller assortment of linens and things, with housewares and home accessories. The company has plans to close or relocate 12 of its remaining 23 traditional stores in the next year. The company plans to open 100 new stores over the next three years. This growth means that there will be a greater need for new employees.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Linens 'n Things CVS

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Norman Axelrod, CEO Norman Axelrod, Pres. William T. Giles, CFO/VP Brian D. Silva, Sr. VP-Human Resources Mathew J. Meaney, VP-MIS Steven B. Silverstein, Exec. VP/Chief Merch. Officer Hugh J. Scullin, Sr. VP-Store Oper.

Phone: 973-778-1300 Fax: 973-815-2950 Toll-Free: Address: 6 Brighton Road, Clifton, NJ, 07015 Internet Address: www.lnthings.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $1,066,200 1997 Sales: $874,200 1996 Sales: $696,100 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: LIN

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $38,100 1997 Profits: $25,800 1996 Profits: $15,000 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 9,700

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $548,846 Second Exec. Salary: $304,808

Bonus: $707,945 Bonus: $234,192

Extremely successful superstore format, with balanced sales from linens and housewares.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Allied Graphic Arts, New York, NY

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

374

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

LIQUIDATION WORLD INC Industry Group Code: 45291 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 19

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 13

Annual Sales Per Store:

Liquidation World

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Free-standing/In-line

74

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Merchandise-Distress Situations, Retail

Liquidation World, Inc. is a liquidator of merchandise for several distress situations, including bankruptcies, recieverships, closeouts, inventory overruns, buybacks and insurance claims. The company additionally conducts weekly auctions in the Calgary and Edmonton, Alberta markets and conducts on-site sales for bankruptcies and recieverships. Liquidation World, Inc. is the largest liquidator in Canada, with over 74 outlets across North America and annual sales in excess of $100 million. The company sells virtually every kind of consumer good, from furniture, clothing, food, hardware, housewares, health & beauty supplies to luggage and electronics. Liquidation World, Inc. is not a traditional liquidator operating on a project by project basis. Instead, the company incorporates ever-changing merchandise lines and the consolidation of hundreds of liquidation deals under one roof to provide its customer with a unique shopping experience. Recently, the company decided to enter the ecommerce world by setting up a catalog of 20-25 items on its web site, which featured company auction information, outlet locations and the opportunity for immediate product purchase. Liquidation World is currently exploring technological tools that may help streamline business communications between suppliers, employees and customers.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Liquidation World, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Dale Gillespie, CEO Dale Gillespie, Pres. Andrew Searby, C.A., CFO Derrick Gillespie, VP-Corp. Purchasing

Phone: 403-250-1222 Fax: 403-291-1306 Toll-Free: Address: 3900- 29th Street N.E., Calgary, Alberta, Canada T1Y 6B6, Internet Address: www.liquidationworld.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $88,000 1997 Sales: $69,900 1996 Sales: $52,700 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: LIQWF

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $3,800 1997 Profits: $3,000 1996 Profits: $2,600 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,649

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $ Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Largest Canadian liquidator.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

375

LITHIA MOTORS INC Industry Group Code: 4411 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 6

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Lithia Motors

Profits: 5

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

$3,907,964 per store

Free-standing

28

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Auto Dealers, Retail

Founded in 1946, Lithia Motors, Inc. is one of the largest new and used vehicle retailers in the western United States. The company offers 16 domestic and import makes of automobiles and trucks, including Chrystler, Toyota, Plymouth, Dodge, Jeep/Eagle, Honda, Saturn, Mazda, Pontiac, Lincoln, Mercury, Isuzu, Suzuki, Kia and Volkswagen. With models ranging from luxury to economy vehicles, Lithia Motors targets middle-income customers seeking reasonable prices. 30 dealerships are scattered throughout Oregon, Nevada, Washington and California, and Lithia Motors doesn’t plan to stop there, with several acquisition intentions on the table for the future. The company plans to acquire certain assets and dealership operations from Magnussen Dodge Isuzu in Concord, California and Magnussen-Barbee Ford, Lincoln Mercury in Napa, California. Lithia Motors is continually evaluating its pricing policies and practices in order to accommodate changing competitive factors and consumer practices, giving it a competitive edge over other stiffer dealerships. Recently, the company has made a commitment to strategically emphasize used car sales, since that aspect of the business is a very important one to Lithia Motors’ overall profitability. As part of this plan, the company is retaining a full-time used vehicle sales manager at each location and is retaining extra selling space to showcase used automobiles.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Lithia Motors

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Sidney B. DeBoer, CEO M.L. Heimann, Pres./COO Brian R. Neill, Sr. VP/CFO Jeff DeBoer, VP-Investor Relations Jeff DeBoer, VP-Finance

Phone: 541-776-6899 Fax: 541-858-3279 Toll-Free: Address: 360 E. Jackson St., Medford, OR, 97501 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $714,700 1997 Sales: $319,800 1996 Sales: $142,800 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: LAD

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $10,800 1997 Profits: $6,000 1996 Profits: $4,000 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,850

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $ Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

One of the largest new and used vehicle retailers in the western United States.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

376

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

LITTLE SWITZERLAND INC Industry Group Code: 44831 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 10

Profits: 11

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Little Switzerland

3,074

$3,860,307 per store

Free-standing/In-line

26

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Duty-Free Shops, Retail Crystal China Fragrances Gifts and accessories Jewelry

Little Switzerland, Inc. is a leading specialty retailer in popular Caribbean and Alaskan destinations. The company imports directly from international manufacturers, and is able to offer shoppers a wide selection of high quality lines of watches, jewelry, crystal, china, fragrances and accessories. Over 30 upscale stores offering these upscale, name-brand luxuries dot popular Caribbean travel destinations and appeal to travelers reluctant to shell out the high import taxes usually imposed on such items. Every Caribbean store is located in free ports that impose no import duties or local sales taxes. Recently, the company opened two stores in Aruba, one store in Juneau, AK, and acquired two stores in Barbados. The Barbados acquisition marks its first entry into that particular tourist market, which attracts a high percentage of Europeans. The company is currently recovering from the loss of its major supplier, Rolex, which accounted for more than a quarter of total sales. The company is currently expanding and making up for the loss by introducing new watch and jewelry lines.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Little Switzerland

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. C. William Carey, CEO David J. Nace, Exec. VP/CFO Michael M. Poole, VP/General Merch. Mgr. William Canfield, VP-Store Oper. David J. Nace, Treas.

Phone: 340-776-2010 Fax: 340-777-4156 Toll-Free: Address: 161-B Crown Bay Cruise Ship, Port St. Thomas, VI, 00802-0184 Internet Address: www.littleswitzerland.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $100,400 1997 Sales: $88,300 1996 Sales: $62,900 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: LSVI

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-3,800 1997 Profits: $1,200 1996 Profits: $ 900 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

500

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $300,000 Second Exec. Salary: $173,000

Bonus: $140,000 Bonus: $28,000

Operates stores in free ports which impose no import duties or local sales taxes.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Blum/Herbstreith, New York, NY

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

377

LOEHMANN'S INC Industry Group Code: 45291 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 12

Profits: 18

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Loehmann's

25,000

$6,261,116 per store/$250 per sq. ft.

Free-standing

69

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Discount Stores, Retail Brand-name fashion apparel

Founded in 1921 as the Original Designer Outlet, Loehmann’s, Inc. acts as a leading specialty retailer of discounted fashionable name-brand apparel that would otherwise be high-end merchandise. In addition to slashing designer prices, the company retails men’s furnishings, accessories and shoes, also slashed from 30% to 65% off original marked prices. Loehmann’s, Inc. prides itself on being the largest upscale off-price specialty retailer in the United States. Through establishing a strong brand name, a loyal customer base and a long- standing relationship with leading designers and vendors of quality merchandise, Loehmann’s has been able to maintain its franchise. Customers, usually somewhat affluent women between the ages of 30 and 55, are attracted to designer and other high-quality merchandise offered at these discounted prices. The company currently operates 69 stores that span over 22 states, but has plans for expansion in the future. Loehmann’s expansion program includes opening new stores in more suburban markets where the franchise is already recognized and wellestablished, and in other locations sporting appealing demographics. The company plans to open three stores during its next fiscal year. Loehmann's is currently operating under Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Loehmann's, Inc. Loehmann's Original Designer Outlet

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Robert N. Friedman, CEO Robert Glass, Pres./COO Eliot Green, Interim CFO Anthony D'Annibale, Sr. VP-Merch. Dennis R. Hernreich, Treas. Jan Heppe, Sr. VP/Dir.-Stores

Phone: 718-409--2000 Fax: 718-518-2788 Toll-Free: Address: 2500 Halsey Street, Bronx, NY, 10461 Internet Address: www.loehmanns.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $432,000 1998 Sales: $443,300 1997 Sales: $417,800 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: LOEH

1999 Profits: $-5,200 1998 Profits: $-15,700 1997 Profits: $4,500 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 2,827

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $575,000 Second Exec. Salary: $375,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Announced in May 1999 that it will file Chapter 11 bankruptcy and create a plan for reorganization.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Furman, Roth Adv., New York, NY

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

378

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

LOEWS CINEPLEX ENTERTAINMENT CORP Industry Group Code: 512131 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 5

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 3

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Theaters

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Movie Theaters

In May of 1998, Loews Theatres and Cineplex Odeon completed a merger, forming Loews Cineplex Entertainment Corporation. The company currently operates over 2,881 screens through its several theater subsidiaries, which include Loews Theatres, Sony Theatres, Cineplex Odeon, Magic Johnston Theatres, Star Theatres, Yelmo Cineplex de Espana and De Laurentiis Cineplex. At the end of fiscal 1998, the company was responsible for the top three grossing theatre operations in the country, and continues to present excellence through the present. Loews Cineplex is currently focused on expanding into underscreened international and domestic markets. European operations are currently of great import, as the company plans to add over 1,000 new screens over a five-year period. State-of-the-art megaplexes are domestically being developed as older or less profitable operations are being closed, adding more profitable and efficient theatres and boosting operating margins. Loews Cineplex's Magic Johnston Theatres are the first to successfully penetrate urban minority neighborhoods, and the company's Canadian operations are the most profitable in the country. The company plans to continue to excel through aggressive expansion and further market penetrating tactics paired with elimination of below excellent theatres.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Loews Theatres Sony Theatres Cineplex Odeon Magic Johnston Theatres Star Theatres Yelmo Cineplex de Espana De Laurentis Cineplex Imax Theatres

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Lawrence J. Ruisi, CEO Lawrence J. Ruisi, Pres. John J. Walker, CFO Mindy Tucker, Corp. VP-Strategic Planning John J. Walker, Treas. J. Edward Shugrue, Pres.-Loews Cineplex Int'l Travis Reid, Pres.-Loews Cineplex United States

Phone: 212-833-6200 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 711 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY, 10022 Internet Address: www.loewscineplex.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $851,160 1998 Sales: $413,510 1997 Sales: $375,345 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: LCP

1999 Profits: $-5,880 1998 Profits: $- 139 1997 Profits: $- 180 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 2,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $728,975 Second Exec. Salary: $683,974

Bonus: $500,000 Bonus: $608,802

Merger of Loews and Cineplex Odeon has created a worldwide theater giant.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

379

LONGS DRUG STORES CORPORATION Industry Group Code: 44611 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 4

Profits: 4

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Longs Drugs

23,000

$8,574,551 per store/$373 sq. ft.

In-line/Free-standing

381

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Drug Stores, Retail Cosmetics Photo accessories Greeting cards Over-the-counter health care products Convenience foods

Founded in 1938 by brothers Joe and Tom Long, Longs Drug Stores, Inc. is one of the largest drug store chains in North America, with 349 stores throughout California, Hawaii, Nevada and Colorado. The company offers a wide array of quality merchandise and services, including pharmaceutical products, personal care items, photography supplies, gifts, groceries and greeting cards. Longs Drug Stores pride themselves on displaying excellently value-priced merchandise accompanied by a high level of friendly customer service. Pharmacy is the cornerstone of Longs’ business, accounting for over 30% of sales, with script volume per day among the leaders in the industry. Accompanying the pharmaceutical aspects of Longs Drug Stores is a large and varied photo and photoprocessing department that carries a variety of cameras, film and frames on top of providing processing services. The company’s cosmetic departments are enhanced by the presence of several well-trained cosmetitians clad in pink coats. Recently, the company reported a 6.4% sales increase in fiscal 1998. Additionally, Longs Drug Stores recently opened 14 new stores in fiscal 1998, including the company’s first in metropolitan Denver and its second and third stores in Las Vegas. Longs Drug Stores plans to expand further by adding two more Las Vegas area stores in fiscal 1999. The company also recently signed a letter of intent to acquire a 20-store retail drug chain located in Washington and Oregon.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Longs Drug Stores

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Robert M. Long, CEO Stephen D. Roath, Pres. Ronald A. Plomgren, CFO Terry D. Burnside, Sr. VP-Mktg. Ronald E. Lovelady, Sr. VP-Human Resources Brian E. Kilcourse, Sr. VP/CIO Ronald A. Plomgren, Sr. VP-Dev. Orlo D. Jones, Sr. VP-Properties/Sec.

Phone: 925-937-1170 Fax: 510-210-6886 Toll-Free: Address: 141 North Civic Drive, Walnut Creek, CA, 94596 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $3,266,900 1998 Sales: $2,952,900 1997 Sales: $2,828,300 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: LDG

1999 Profits: $63,400 1998 Profits: $57,700 1997 Profits: $58,600 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 17,300

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $160,000 Second Exec. Salary: $100,000

Bonus: $323,904 Bonus: $196,656

One of the largest drug store chains serving the western U.S.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: W.B. Doner & Company, Southfield, MI

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

380

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

LOT$OFF CORPORATION Industry Group Code: 45291 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 20

Profits: 16

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

LOT$ OFF

25,900

$1,101,409 per store/$43 per sq. ft.

Strip center/Mall/Free-standing

44

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Discount Stores, Retail

LOT$ OFF Corporation operates 44 LOT$ OFF specialty close-out discount stores throughout Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, New Mexico and Tennessee. The company's stores are stocked with a broad mix of products that seasonally and categorically fluctuate. Each store's merchandise additionally fluctuates according to demographics of the store area, customer needs, buying trends and the availability of products at close-out prices. Value-minded and bargain-shopping persons are the company's target customers. LOT$ OFF locates its stores where demographics indicate that its targeted customers can easily access the location--most stores exist in malls, strip centers or as free-standing units. The company opened one store in fiscal 1997 and three stores in fiscal 1998. Currently, LOT$ OFF plans to open or move up to 10 stores during fiscal 1999. The company, which emerged from Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 1997, closed one store prior to the filing and 57 afterwards, with three stores closing in 1998. LOT$ OFF additionally plans to downsize several stores and to attempt rent renegotiations on certain remaining leases.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: LOT$ OFF

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Charles J. Fuhrmann, CEO Charles J. Fuhrman, Pres. Jeff Seidel, VP-Finance/CFO Joe Goldstein, VP-Divisional Merch. Allen Fields, VP- Store Oper. Jeff Seidel, Treas.

Phone: 210-805-9300 Fax: 210-804-4952 Toll-Free: Address: 1201 Austin Hwy. #116, San Antonio, TX, 78209-4859 Internet Address: www.lotsoffcorp.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $48,500 1997 Sales: $106,200 1996 Sales: $175,000 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: LOTS

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-6,900 1997 Profits: $-43,900 1996 Profits: $-6,800 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

848

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $210,032 Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Stores stocked with a broad range of deeply-discounted merchandise.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

381

LOWE'S COS INC Industry Group Code: 44413 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Profits: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Lowe's

150,000

$25,299,586 per store/$168 per sq. ft.

Free-standing/In-line

484

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Building Materials/Hardware Stores, Retail Home improvement supplies

Lowe’s Companies, Inc. serves the home improvement, home décor and home construction markets from approximately 484stores located primarily in the eastern half of the United States. The company is one of America’s 25 largest retailers, and has also been named a Fortune 200 company. Lowe’s has been selected by Fortune magazine as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America, and is the only home improvement retailer to receive that distinction. The company recently announced its commitment as a Gold Sponsor to the 1999 Special Olympics World Summer Games, which will be the largest sporting event in the world in 1999. Lowe’s is charitable as well as a profitable company. Since 1990, Lowe’s has achieved a 20% compound sales growth rate and a 26% compound growth rate in net earnings. Since 1994, the company has increased its square footage by 75%, keeping in pace with the company’s profit increase. Currently, the company is completing new store projects, including relocations, at a rate of more than one per week. In fiscal 1997, the company opened 42 new stores and completed 24 relocations. Lowe’s has recently opened up four state-of-the-art regional distribution centers, with a fifth on its way. Now, every Lowe’s store is served by a regional distribution center full of high-tech, high-velocity components that will ensure smooth and efficient operations for years to come. The company plans to expand further in the coming years by expanding its location base. Lowe's helped send a local marching band to the Tournament of Roses Parade through its Charitable and Educational Foundation. The company has also set up Lowe's Home Safety Council which actively supports community efforts such as fire safety houses operated by local fire departments.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: At Home With Lowe's

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Robert L. Tillman, CEO Larry D. Stone, Exec. VP/COO Thomas E. Whiddon, Exec. VP/CFO Dale C. Pond, Sr. VP-Mktg. William L. Irons, Sr. VP-MIS William C. Warden, Jr., Exec. VP/Chief Admin. Officer W. Cliff Oxford, Sr. VP-Corp. and Human Dev. Robert L. Tillman, Pres.

Phone: 910-658-4000 Fax: 910-651-4766 Toll-Free: Address: P.O. Box 1111, North Wilkesboro, NC, 28656 Internet Address: www.lowes.com Notes/Other Info: [email protected]

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $12,244,900 1998 Sales: $10,136,890 1997 Sales: $8,600,241 1996 Sales: $7,075,442 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: LOW

1999 Profits: $482,400 1998 Profits: $375,500 1997 Profits: $292,150 1996 Profits: $226,027 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 60,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $675,000 Second Exec. Salary: $650,000

Bonus: $311,175 Bonus: $299,650

Name recognition in the Southeast/Positioned to appeal to the do-it-yourself customer.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Sterling Advertising, Ltd., North Wilkesboro, NC; W.B. Doner & Company, Southfield, MI

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

382

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

MARCUS CORPORATION (THE) Industry Group Code: 512131 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 7

Profits: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Marcus Theaters

361 Screens

$1,995,652 per store

Free-standing

46

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Movie Theaters Fast-food restaurants Family entertainment centers

Through its subsidiaries, The Marcus Corporation operates through four business segments: limited service lodging, movie theaters, hotels and resorts and restaurants. The company’s limited service lodging business segment consists of its chain of 156 Budgetel Inns and five Woodfield Suites hotels, all of which are scattered throughout Wisconsin, Colorado and Ohio. The Marcus Corporation’s movie theaters business segment includes 46 movie theaters located in Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota and Ohio. Additionally, Funset Boulevard Family Entertainment Center in Appleton, Wisconsin is operated by the corporation. Hotels and resorts operated by the company include the Pfister , Milwaukee Hilton and Grand Geneva Resort in Wisconsin and the Miramonte Resort in California. Additionally, The Marcus Corporation manages three hotels and a resort for third parties. 31 Kentucky Fried Chicken franchised restaurants combine to form the company’s restaurant operating division. Currently, The Marcus Corporation is continuing to implement its aggressive expansion plan by opening up several more franchised properties, changing its Budgetel Inns to Baymont Inns and Baymont Inns & Suites, and subsequently increasing the hotels to reach a total of 400. Part of the expansion plan additionally includes increasing the total number of movie screens to 500 by the year 2000. Several additional resorts and hotels are currently being opened as this corporation rapidly expands with a fury.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Budgetel Inns Woodfield Suites Pfister Hotel Marc Plaza Hotel Kentucky Fried Chicken Franchise Coffee Mills Marc's Cafe Marcus Theatres Corporation

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Stephen H. Marcus, CEO Stephen H. Marcus, Pres. Douglas A. Neis, CFO H. Fred Delmenhorst, VP-Human Resources Douglas A. Neis, Treas.

Phone: 414-905-1000 Fax: 414-272-0669 Toll-Free: Address: 250 East Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 1700, Milwaukee, WI, 53202-4220 Internet Address: www.businesswire.com/cnn/mcs.html Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $335,800 1997 Sales: $281,900 1996 Sales: $244,300 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: MCS

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $28,400 1997 Profits: $30,900 1996 Profits: $42,300 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 7,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $398,077 Second Exec. Salary: $233,558

Bonus: $362,684 Bonus: $147,600

Franchises a number of well-recognized businesses.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

383

MARINEMAX INC Industry Group Code: 4400 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 6

Profits: 14

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

MarineMax

6,700-76,400

$11,269,000 per store

Free-standing/Mall

40

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Recreational Boats, Retail Boat engines Boat trailers Boat parts Boat accessories Boat repair and maintenance

MarineMax, Inc. is the largest recreational boat dealer in the United States, with 40 retail locations scattered throughout Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Minnesota, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio and Texas. The company sells new and used recreational boats, including sport boats, sport cruisers, sport yachts and yachts, known as pleasure boats. Fishing boats and other marine parts and products such as engines, trailers, parts and accessories are also sold at MarineMax. The company additionally arranges related boat financing, insurance and extended service contracts, repair and maintenance services and boat brokerage services. MarineMax is the largest retailer of Sea Ray, Boston Whaler and other Brunswick boats in the United States. Recently, the company acquired Bassett Boat Company of Florida, Texas GulfWind USA, Inc., Harrison’s Boat Center, Inc., Arizona Stovall Marine, Inc., Cochran’s Marine, Inc., Sea Ray of Wilmington, Inc., Brevard Boat Company, Sea Ray of Las Vegas, Inc. and Treasure Cove Marina, Inc. The company is currently capitalizing on the experience and success of each of the acquired dealers in order to establish a new standard of customer service and excellence.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: MarineMax MarineMax Motor Yachts, Inc. Treasure Cove Marina, Inc. Bassett Boat Company of Florida, Inc. Texas Gulfwind USA, Inc. Brevard Boat Company Sea Ray of Las Vegas, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. William H. McGill, Jr., CEO William H. McGill, Jr., Pres. Michael H. McLamb, VP/CFO David H. Pretasky, Sr. VP-Oper. Michael H. McLamb, Treas.

Phone: 727-531-1700 Fax: 727-531-0123 Toll-Free: Address: 18167 US 19 North, Ste. 499, Clearwater, FL, 33764 Internet Address: www.marinemax.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $291,200 1997 Sales: $169,700 1996 Sales: $175,100 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: HZO

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $- 600 1997 Profits: $14,900 1996 Profits: $6,900 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

731

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $103,125 Second Exec. Salary: $87,500

Bonus: $100,000 Bonus: $361,740

Capitalizing on experience gained from recent acquisitions.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

384

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

MARSH SUPERMARKETS INC Industry Group Code: 4451 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 20

Profits: 23

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Marsh Supermarkets Village Pantry LoBill

38,100 1,800-4,500 30,000-40,000

$15,000,000 (including Lo Bill Foods) $5,000,000 per store

In-line In-line/Free-standing In-line

89 181 12

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Grocery stores/Supermarkets, Retail Convenience stores Catering Food distribution service Cafeteria management services

Marsh Supermarkets, Inc. operates 89 supermarkets and 181 convenience stores under the Village Pantry name throughout Indiana and Ohio. Village Pantry convenience stores offer a broad selection of grocery, bakery and dairy products, as well as delicatessen items, fresh sandwiches and baked goods prepared in the store and, in 52% of cases, petroleum products. Currently, the company employs a merchandising strategy emphasizing service, quality, convenience and competitive prices. Expanding its customer base is extremely important to Marsh Supermarkets. The company additionally operates and owns its own food distribution business, which serves its Village Pantry stores as well as over 1,290 unaffiliated convenience stores located throughout seven states. Marsh Supermarkets additionally operates a food services division which provides upscale catering, vending, concession and business cafeteria management services. The company is employing an ongoing development program to remodel selected Marsh Supermarkets to the LoBill supermarket format. This format includes maximized market area and an appeal to value-minded customers. Expanding into smaller communities and inner city metropolitan areas that can be better served by the new format is an additional plan for the company, as is implementing a concept of combined pharmacies and supermarkets.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Marsh Supermarkets Village Pantry Convenience Store Distributing Company Crystal Food Services LoBill

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Don E. Marsh, CEO Don E. Marsh, Pres. Douglas W. Dougherty, CFO/VP David M. Redden, Sr. VP-Human Resources C. Alan Marsh, Sr. VP-Corp. Dev. Douglas W. Dougherty, Treas. Ronald R. Walicki, Pres./COO-Village Pantry Division William L. Marsh, VP-Property Mgmt.

Phone: 317-594-2100 Fax: 317-594-2704 Toll-Free: Address: 9800 Crosspoint Boulevard, Indianapolis, IN, 46256 Internet Address: www.marsh.net/ Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $1,606,300 1998 Sales: $1,505,100 1997 Sales: $1,451,700 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: MARSA

1999 Profits: $11,600 1998 Profits: $6,100 1997 Profits: $- 200 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 12,800

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $550,000 Second Exec. Salary: $288,846

Bonus: $110,000 Bonus: $

Has several different concepts to market to various demographic groups.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Ron Foth Advertising, Columbus, OH

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

385

MARY KAY COSMETICS INC. Industry Group Code: 45411 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 7

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Direct marketing/Catalog

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Cosmetics/Beauty Supplies, Retail

Mary Kay Cosmetics, Inc. is the number two direct seller of beauty products in the United States (second to Avon.) The company sells more than 200 products, including facial skin care, color cosmetics, fragrances, sun protection products, nutritional supplements, hair, nail, body care, and men’s skin care items. Approximately half a million, mostly female, Mary Kay direct-sales consultants demonstrate the company’s products in the U.S. and in 26 foreign countries. The company was founded by Mary Kay Ash, and today most of the company is owned by Ash and her family. New developments for Mary Kay include the introduction of white sport utility vehicles as a Mary Kay consultant prize for high sales. The company introduced its first such prize, a pink Cadillac, in 1969. To show that the company is modern and current, additional shades of \"Mary Kay Pink\" have been introduced to the fleet of over 10,000 prize vehicles.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Acapella Angelfire Color Shield Day Radiance Genji Joy Full Quattro Revitalizing

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. John P. Rochon, CEO Amy DiGeso, Pres. David Holl, CFO Curran Dandurand, Exec. VP-Mktg. LaDonna McHaney, VP-Human Resources Myra O. Barker, Sr. VP-Chief Scientific Officer Trey Bradley, Sr. VP-Info. Systems Dennis Greaney, Dennis Greaney Susan Chaffin, Mgr. Organization Effectiveness

Phone: 972-687-6300 Fax: 972-687-1609 Toll-Free: Address: 16251 Dallas Pkwy., Dallas, TX, 75248 Internet Address: www.marykay.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $1,000,000 1997 Sales: $1,050,000 1996 Sales: $1,000,000 1995 Sales: $950,000

Stock Ticker: PRIVATE

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $ 1997 Profits: $ 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 3,500

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $ Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Number two direct sales beauty products company in the U.S./Very strong and motivated sales force.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Media Wise, Dallas, TX

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

386

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

MAXIM GROUP INC (THE) Industry Group Code: 44221 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

CARPETMAX Georgia Carpet Outlets

6,000-25,000 10,000

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

In-line In-line

71 owned/463 franchised 6 owned/101 franchised

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Carpeting/Floor Coverings, Retail

Founded in 1989, The Maxim Group, Inc. has operated as one of the largest retail floorcovering networks in North America. The cornerstone of the company’s growth strategy is the CarpetMAX Flooring Idea gallery, which exists as a unique, innovative retail brand that operates with impressive fundamentals. The Maxim Group, Inc. operates a total of 71 CarpetMAX stores and six cashand-carry discount GCO Carpet Outlet stores, and franchises, 101 GCO Carpet Outlet stores and 463 CarpetMAX stores. Maxim is also a fully integrated company, operating its own fiber and carpet manufacturing facilities through its Image Industries division and offering after-sales cleaning and maintenance services through its MAXcare division. The company is additionally one of the largest manufacturers of polyester carpeting in the United States. The Maxim Group has recently continued development of its full-service retail format to offer customers a wide selection of competitively priced floor products. CarpetMAX stores offer a wide range of services, including the provision of several specialized floor covering sales associates, interior design consulting, measuring, delivery and installation and unconditional satisfaction guarantees.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: CarpetMAX GCO-Carpet Outlets

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. A.J. Nassar, CEO Herbert A. Biggers, COO Gene Harper, CFO Thomas P. Leahey, Exec. VP-Finance Mack Hale, Exec. VP-Merch. Sandra Fowler, Exec. VP-Admin. Thomas P. Leahey, Treas. A.J. Nassar, Pres. David E. Cicchinelli, Pres.-Retail Groups

Phone: 770-590-9369 Fax: 770-590-8141 Toll-Free: Address: 210 Town Park Drive, Kennesaw, GA, 30144 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $606,300 1998 Sales: $365,100 1997 Sales: $309,700 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: MXG

1999 Profits: $-3,000 1998 Profits: $15,400 1997 Profits: $2,100 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 2,660

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $350,012 Second Exec. Salary: $295,000

Bonus: $265,000 Bonus: $

Offers a full range of floorcovering products/Has over 500 company-owned and franchised-owned stores.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

387

MAY DEPARTMENT STORES COMPANY (THE) Industry Group Code: 4521 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 6

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 3

Annual Sales Per Store:

Lord & Taylor Hecht's and Strawbridge's Foley's Robinsons-May Kaufmann's Filene's

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Mall/Free-standing Mall Mall Mall Mall Mall

63 71 55 55 47 40

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Department Stores, Retail

One of the United States’ leading department store companies, The May Department Stores Company operates 369 quality department stores through eight regional divisions, each of which holds a leading position in its region. The company’s stores operate under the names Lord & Taylor, Hecht’s, Strawbridge’s, Foley’s, Robinsons-May, Kaufmann’s, Filene’s, Famous-Barr, L.S. Ayres and Meier & Frank. The May Department Stores Company recently reported its 23rd consecutive year of record sales and earnings per share, and also recently approved a $650 million stock repurchase program in which earnings per share and return on equity should be increased. The company is committed to offering compelling assortments of merchandise, including all the right colors, styles and product choices. The May Department Stores Company additionally views gifts as a huge growth market, and is striving to be a destination store for gifts and bridal registry. The company recently invested $160 million to remodel 26 stores, 11 of which were expanded. The company also is currently stepping up cooperative efforts with its major vendors such as Estee Lauder, Liz Claiborne, Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger and Calvin Klein. After several record years, The May Department Stores Company is confident that its future holds much promise, as it is financially stronger than ever.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Filene's Lord & Taylor Meier & Frank Famous-Barr Kaufmann's Robinsons-May Hecht's Foley's

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. David.C. Farrell, CEO Jerome T. Loeb, Pres. John L. Dunham, CFO Douglas J. Giles, Sr. VP-Human Resources Barbara J. Murray, VP-Consumer Research R. Dean Wolfe, Exec. VP-Acquisitions/Real Estate Anthony J. Torcasio, CEO-May Merch. Company

Phone: 314-342-6300 Fax: 314-342-4461 Toll-Free: Address: 611 Olive Street, St. Louis, MO, 63101 Internet Address: www.maycompany.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $13,413,000 1998 Sales: $12,685,000 1997 Sales: $12,000,000 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: MAY

1999 Profits: $849,000 1998 Profits: $775,000 1997 Profits: $755,000 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 111,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $1,237,500 Second Exec. Salary: $976,250

Bonus: $940,742 Bonus: $370,652

Excellent management and inventory control.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 8 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

388

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

MAZEL STORES INC Industry Group Code: 45291 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 15

Profits: 10

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Odd Job

6,500-25,000

$5,044,680 per store

Mall/Strip Center

47

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Discount Stores, Retail

Founded in 1975, Mazel Stores, Inc. is the leader in the closeout industry. Through combined resources of its retail and wholesale operations, the company buys and sells resell quality, brand-name merchandise at a substantial discount tot he original retail or wholesale price. Mazel Stores’ chain of 23 discount retail stores, operating under the Odd Job banner, do business in the New York metropolitan area. The largest closeout retail chain in the United States, Odd Job locations span throughout the New York Metropolitan area and lead the Northeast closeout retail market. The company plans to expand its presence in the Northeast, Mid- Atlantic and Midwest, and to thus build the retail side of its business and enhance the performance of both retail and wholesale operations. Recently, Mazel Stores acquired 10 new stores in the New York Metropolitan area and plans to expand its chain to reach 60 stores total by 2000. The company also recently hired a vice president of real estate with extensive industry experience as well as thorough knowledge of the Northwest market. Mazel Stores believes that this new addition in addition with its excellent existing management team will help the company expand and grow, as well as retain its position as the United States’ largest closeout retailer.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Mazel Stores, Inc. Odd Job

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Reuven D. Dessler, CEO Brady Churches, Pres. Susan Atkinson, Sr. VP/CFO Susan Atkinson, Treas. Jerry Sommers, Exec. VP-Retail Jacob Koval, Exec. VP-Wholesale

Phone: 216-248-5200 Fax: 216-349-4056 Toll-Free: Address: 31000 Aurora Road, Solon, OH, 44139 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $237,100 1998 Sales: $208,300 1997 Sales: $179,900 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: MAZL

1999 Profits: $5,200 1998 Profits: $8,500 1997 Profits: $8,200 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,181

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $457,363 Second Exec. Salary: $390,055

Bonus: $62,500 Bonus: $62,500

Largest closeout retailer in the United States.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

389

MEDIA ARTS GROUP INC Industry Group Code: 442299 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Profits: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Thomas Kinkade

1,000-2,200

$1,084,211 per store/$1,495 per sq. ft.

Malls/In-line

19

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Art/Framing, Retail Photolithographs inspired by Thomas Kinkade Gifts inspired by Thomas Kinkade Collectibles inspired by Thomas Kinkade Decorative accessories inspired by Thomas Kinkade

Media Arts Group, Inc. designs, markets, manufactures and acts as a branded retailer of art-based home decorative accessories, collectibles and gift products based on the works of artist Thomas Kinkade. Well known for using light as a theme of his paintings, peaceful and inspiring themes flood Kinkade’s works. The painter’s works celebrate home, family, nature and traditions, thus lending themselves to consumer marketing and acceptance on a wide scale. The company believes that the artist’s work and the products based on the work helps to create positive environments in which to live and work. Products generally sell between $50 and $15,000, and are distributed through a network of 19 Thomas Kinkade stores, 74 signature galleries and approximately 2,500 other independent gift and collectible retailers. Strategic relationships additionally strengthen distribution, and the company currently is striving to strengthen these relationships as well as create new ones. Media Arts Group, Inc. believes that it is this distribution network that will help to build Thomas Kinkade into a leading art-based brand.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Media Arts Group

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Raymond A. Peterson, CEO Raymond A. Peterson, Pres. Greg H.L. Nash, Sr. VP/CFO James F. Landrum, Jr., Corp. Sec. Craig A. Fleming, Pres./CEO-Lightpost Publishing, Inc. John R. Lackner, Sr. VP/COO-Lightpost Publishing, Inc.

Phone: 408-324-2020 Fax: 408-324-2035 Toll-Free: Address: 521 Charcot Ave., San Jose, CA, 95131 Internet Address: www.mediaarts.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $126,300 1998 Sales: $82,700 1997 Sales: $47,000 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: MDA

1999 Profits: $18,300 1998 Profits: $11,000 1997 Profits: $-11,000 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

420

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $372,300 Second Exec. Salary: $372,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $1,431,393

Sole liscencer of Thomas Kinkade-branded products

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

390

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

MEN'S WEARHOUSE INC (THE) Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 14

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Men's Wearhouse SuitMax Suit Warehouse

5,297 14,301 14,301

Profits: 13

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

$4,025,000/store, $281/sq. ft.

In-line In-line In-line

411 12 4

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel-Men's, Retail Men's Suits Sport coats Shoes Accessories

The Men’s Wearhouse is one of the largest off-price specialty retailers of men’s tailored business attire in the United States. The company targets middle and upper middle income men by offering quality merchandise at consistently low prices and a superior level of customer service. The company recently acquired C&R Clothiers, a privately held retailer of 17 men’s tailored clothing stores and one distribution facility operating in southern California. The company also acquired Walter Pye’s Men’s Shops, Inc., a retailer of six men’s tailored clothing stores operating in Texas and Louisiana. In addition, the company acquired T.H.C., Inc., a retailer of four stores operating in Detroit, Michigan and the Moores Retail Group of Canada. Men's Wearhouse stores now total 577. In addition to increases in net sales resulting from new stores and acquisitions, the company has experienced comparable store sales increases in each of the past five years, and an average annual sales growth of 35% for the past six years. Men's Wearhouse has started a chain of SuitMax stores with suits priced under $200. Seven SuitMax stores are now in business, and another five will be opened soon. In mid-1999, the firm acquired K&G Men's Center, an Atlanta-based chain of 34 stores. Men's Wearhouse plans to double total revenues by 2004 through acqusitions, sales growth and the development of 180 new stores. About 100 new stores will be added by the end of 2001. Tuxedo rentals are currently being tested in 12 Seattle stores. The company recently expanded its training management team by adding Suits High and Selling Accessories U to complement its core training program, Suits University. The new programs focus on fashion concepts and accessories, fitting and sales techniques, team selling and increasing multiple sales. The company recently built a 35,000 square foot training and administrative facility, and offers an exercise incentive wellness program.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: C&R Clothiers Inc. Cricketeer Country Britches Joseph & Feiss Baracuta and Cox K&G Men's Center Moore's Retail Group-Canada

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. George Zimmer, CEO Eric Lane, COO Gary Ckodre, VP-Finance Harry M. Levy, Sr. VP/CIO James E. Zimmer, Sr. VP-Merch. Charles Bresler, Sr. VP-Human Dev. Robert E. Zimmer, Sr. VP-Real Estate Davis Edwab, Pres.

Phone: 713-592-7200 Fax: 713-664-1957 Toll-Free: 800-776-7848 Address: 5803 Glenmont Drive, Houston, TX, 77081 Internet Address: www.menswearhouse.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $767,900 1998 Sales: $631,110 1997 Sales: $483,547 1996 Sales: $406,343 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: SUIT

1999 Profits: $40,200 1998 Profits: $28,900 1997 Profits: $21,143 1996 Profits: $16,508 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 6,800

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $420,000 Second Exec. Salary: $350,000

Bonus: $87,500 Bonus: $332,575

Everyday low prices/Very strong positioning and advertising/Rapid growth through acquisitions and internal development.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: MJA Advertising Assoc., New York, NY

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

391

METRO GLOBAL MEDIA INC Industry Group Code: 5121 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Airborne For Men, Ltd.

6 franchised

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Adult Entertainment Products, Retail Men's retail store franchises Adult entertainment production Adult entertainment magazines

Metro Global Media, Inc., specializes in the creation, marketing, and distribution of adult entertainment products, including adult movies, videos, CD-ROMs, digital versatile discs and magazines. With more than 3000 titles, the company sells about 2.1 million videos annually. Capital Video, an adult retail chain, accounts for about 47% of sales. Its subsidiary, Airborne for Men, is a six-outlet chain of franchisee-owned retail stores featuring adult-oriented products and casual clothing and accessories. Metro also has an adult-oriented Web site and publishes 10 adult magazines. Recent business endeavors include an exclusive distributorship agreement with Phantasm Video Production, BV of Holland, one of the largest distributors of adult entertainment products in Europe, and an agreement with Cable Entertainment Distributors, Inc. for distribution of Metro’s Cable Version product line on a worldwide basis. The company also created the “Amazing Interactive Digizine”, a magazine style format on a CD-ROM which features film clips and photos of new release adult films, video centerfold, fiction and product reviews. Metro recently acquired Fanzine International, a publishing company that produces a line of event driven, mainstream magazines, which are translated into seven languages and distributed to over 20 different nations.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Metro, Inc. Cal Vista Intropics Magma Airborne for Men Virtual Valerie 2 Arcus Media Group, Inc. Fanzine International

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. A. Daniel Geribo, Pres. Janet M. Hoey, Treas.

Phone: 401-942-7876 Fax: 401-943-6363 Toll-Free: Address: 1060 Park Avenue, Cranston, RI, 02910 Internet Address: www.metroglobal.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $20,400 1997 Sales: $18,400 1996 Sales: $19,500 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: MGMA

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $ 300 1997 Profits: $ 200 1996 Profits: $ 500 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

130

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $74,200 Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Recently opened an international sales office to promote products worldwide/Has amassed a library of over 2000 erotic films and videos.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

392

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

METROLOGIC INSTRUMENTS INC Industry Group Code: 3341B Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 4

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 4

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Support Service

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Bar Code Scanning Equipment, Retail Laser scanner products Wireless scanner interfaces Holographic scanners

Founded in 1968, Metrologic Instruments, Inc. manufactures a variety of scanning equipment that incorporates holographic and laser technology, including hand-held scanners, fixed-projection scanners, in-counter scanners and industrial scanners. Metrologic products are sold in over 85 countries worldwide, including the United States where the company serves a broad customer base. The company’s international sales and services are coordinated through offices in Europe, South America and Asia. Metrologic Instruments’ annual sales total approximately $53 million, and the company considers itself a technology leader focused on innovative, highquality products, value pricing and volume markets. Metrologic plans to continue expanding its business by implementing, inventing and pioneering new technological advances and integrating those advances into its scanners, giving it an edge over other competitors in the scanning industry. The company experienced record sales during its quarter ending March of 1999, and announced the formation of MetroAsia Resources, Inc, an international purchasing office joint venture between the company and Mr. John Hsu. MetroAsia's implementation is expected to improve the company's overseas communications and expand overses supplier bases. The company offers an Academic Graduate Engineering Program.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Holoscan, Inc. Metrologic Instruments GmbH MetroAsia Resources, Inc. ScanSet ScanQuest ScanGlove ScanKey HoloTrak

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. C. Harry Knowles, Pres./CEO Thomas E. Mills IV, Exec. VP/COO Thomas E. Mills IV, CFO Kevin P. Woznicki, VP-North American Sales John L. Patton, Dir.-Human Resources Dr. LeRoy D. Dickinson, VP-Optical Engineering William G. Smeader, William G. Smeader Janet H. Knowles, VP-Admin. Janet H. Knowles, Treas. Benny A. Noens, VP-European Sales Joseph Milacci, VP-Industrial Automation

Phone: 609-228-8100 Fax: 609-228-6673 Toll-Free: Address: 90 Coles Road, Blackwood, NJ, 08012-0307 Internet Address: www.metrologic.com Notes/Other Info: [email protected]

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $65,600 1997 Sales: $53,500 1996 Sales: $47,000 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: MTLG

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $4,500 1997 Profits: $3,000 1996 Profits: $3,000 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

400

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $200,000 Second Exec. Salary: $180,000

Bonus: $200,000 Bonus: $175,000

Designs and manufactures its own optics, optical coatings, magnetic and inductive electronic components and fabricated parts.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

393

MICHAELS STORES INC Industry Group Code: 45112 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Profits: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Michaels Aaron Brothers

16,900 6,100

$3,100,000 per store/$186 per sq. ft. $1,100,000 per store/$176 per sq. ft.

In-line In-line

496 78

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Crafts, Retail Specialty framing Art supplies

Michaels Stores, Inc. is the nation's largest and only national retailer dedicated to serving the arts, crafts and decorative items marketplace. The company's Michaels stores offer a wide selection of competitively priced items, including general crafts, home décor items, picture framing materials and services, art and hobby supplies, party supplies, silk and dried flowers, wearable art and seasonal and holiday merchandise for the hobbyist and do-ityourself home decorator. Recently, nine new Michaels stores and three new Aaron Brothers stores were opened. The company, during fiscal 1998, opened 45 Michaels stores, relocated 15, expanded eight and remodeled about 50. By the end of the year, Michaels will have 575 stores in 46 states, Canada and Puerto Rico. Michaels is in the process of implementing new information systems that will bring increased levels of sophistication and ease of use to the company’s merchandising capabilities. For 1998, the company created a specialized planning/merchandise replenishment organization with job responsibilities defined by function. A new warehouse management system in two of the company’s four distribution centers was also recently installed. The company plans to open up a new market in Portland, Oregon where Aaron Brothers is unknown. Michaels Stores promotes from within. In a recent year, 114 hourly associates were promoted to assistant store managers, 89 assistants to store managers, 6 store managers to district managers and three district managers to regional managers. Over 200 associates participated in management training and development seminars, over 11,000 in gross margin training programs and over 1,500 in frame shop training.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Michaels Aaron Brothers

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. R. Michael Rouleau, CEO R. Michael Rouleau, Pres. Bryan M. DeCordova, Exec. VP/CFO Donald R. Miller, Jr., VP-Market Dev. H. Kevin Rutherford, Sr. VP-Human Resources James F. Tucker, Exec. VP/CIO Lawrence Fine, Exec. VP/General Merch. Mgr. Duane Hiemenz, VP-Store Oper. Douglas B. Sullivan, Exec. VP-Dev.

Phone: 972-409-1300

Fax: 888-515-6453 interactive news fax

Toll-Free: Address: P.O. Box 619566, Dallas, TX, 75261-9566 Internet Address: www.michaels.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $1,574,000 1998 Sales: $1,456,500 1997 Sales: $1,378,277 1996 Sales: $1,294,886 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: MIKE

1999 Profits: $43,600 1998 Profits: $30,100 1997 Profits: $-31,233 1996 Profits: $-20,417 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 17,900

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $500,000 Second Exec. Salary: $450,000

Bonus: $300,000 Bonus: $

Broad selection of products/Buying power.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

394

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

MICRO WAREHOUSE INC Industry Group Code: 45411 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 3

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 5

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

On-line/Direct Marketing

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Computer and Software Products, Retail Mail-order-software Mail-order-computer peripherals

Micro WAREHOUSE, Inc. is a specialty catalog, telemarketing and Internet retailer of brand-name personal computers, computer software, accessories and peripheral and networking products. The company sells to both commercial and consumer customers. Micro WAREHOUSE, Inc. offers a variety of products from such leading vendors as Adobe, Apple, 3Com, Compaq, Hewlett Packard, IBM, Iomega, Microsoft, Motorola and Toshiba. Micro WAREHOUSE, Mac WAREHOUSE, DataComm WAREHOUSE and Inmac, the company’s four specialty catalogs, offer over 30,000 computer-related products at competitive prices. Recently, the company acquired Online Interactive, Inc., which offered customers the ability to make online purchases and to purchase download software via the Internet. The FIRM additionally recently restructured its operations to include a simplification of the company’s business worldwide, reduction of the company’s cost structure and the elimination of certain unprofitable businesses. Currently, Micro WAREHOUSE, Inc. is focusing on concentrating its efforts on the productivity of its sales force.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: MacWAREHOUSE MicroWAREHOUSE Data CommWAREHOUSE Micro SuppliesWAREHOUSE Paper DesignWAREHOUSE CD-ROM WAREHOUSE Inmac Online Interactive, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Peter Godfrey, Pres./CEO M. Seiler, Exec. VP/COO Wayne P. Garten, Exec. VP/CFO Adam Shaffer, Exec. VP-Mktg., Advertising, and Purchasing Michael J. Kurtz, VP-Human Resources Bruce L. Lev, Exec. VP-Legal and Corp. Affairs Jeffrey Sheahan, Sr. VP/Pres.-European Oper. Stephen B. England, Exec. VP-Sales

Phone: 203-899-4000 Fax: 203-899-4203 Toll-Free: Address: 535 Connecticut Avenue, Norwalk, CT, 06854 Internet Address: www.warehouse.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $2,220,000 1997 Sales: $2,125,700 1996 Sales: $1,916,200 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: MWHS

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $30,200 1997 Profits: $-36,700 1996 Profits: $15,300 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 3,595

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $549,005 Second Exec. Salary: $528,902

Bonus: $80,000 Bonus: $

Employs more than 1,000 sales and support staff on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

395

MICROAGE INC Industry Group Code: 44312B Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Catalog/Direct marketing

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Computer and Software Products Networking and telecommunications equipment Software products Microcomputer systems Systems integration

MicroAge, a full-line computer systems distributor and systems integrator, has split into two businesses in hopes of strengthening the company. Its Pinacor unit distributes more than 20,000 microcomputer systems, networking and telecommunications equipment and software products through a network of resellers and affiliates in 34 countries. Products are handled from more than 500 suppliers backed by a suite of technical, financial, logistics and account management services. These products include servers, desktops, mobile computing, mass storage, connectivity, imaging, peripherals, software and component products. MicroAge serves large organizations including corporations, institutions and government agencies. Its business strategy includes four principal business groups: MicroAge Distribution Group, MicroAge Integration Group, MicroAge Logistics Group and MicroAge Services Group. In addition, the company provides various support services, including financial services, to the four business groups through the MicroAge Headquarters Support Group. MicroAge announced several acquisitions recently, which expands the number of company-owned integration branches to more than 40, expands its field-based associates from 500 to more than 2,000 and links the firm more closely to its corporate customers. The company also deployed a project management team in Europe and formed the Global Account Management Division within the MicroAge Integration Group in order to identify and support clients that have global integration requirements. The company offers a challenging, creative work environment.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: MicroAge Computer Centers, Inc. MicroAge Infosystems Services, Inc. MicroAge Solutions, Inc. MicroAge Data Services MicroAge Channel Services MicroAge Logistics Services MicroAge Technologies MicroAge Network

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Jeffrey D. McKeever, CEO James R. Daniel, Exec. VP-Services/CFO Christopher J. Koziol, Exec. VP-Sales Alan R. Lyons, VP-Human Resources Robert W. Mason, VP/CIO Christopher J. Koziol, Exec. VP-Sales John H. Andrews, Exec. VP-Oper. James R. Daniel, Treas. Robert G. O'Malley, CEO-Pinacor, Inc. Alan R. Lyons, VP-Admin.

Phone: 602-366-2000 Fax: 602-966-7339 Toll-Free: 800-525-5783 (Fax on Demand) Address: 2400 South MicroAge Way, Tempe, AZ, 85282-1896 Internet Address: www.microage.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $5,520,000 1997 Sales: $4,446,308 1996 Sales: $3,516,400 1995 Sales: $3,098,976

Stock Ticker: MICA

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-8,300 1997 Profits: $24,965 1996 Profits: $13,300 1995 Profits: $3,634

Employees: 4,500

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $650,000 Second Exec. Salary: $340,008

Bonus: $36,403 Bonus: $18,010

Markets and distributes products for leading computer manufacturers.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

396

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

MICROSOFT CORP Industry Group Code: 5112 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store:

Support services Microsoft Store

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Mall

1

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Computer and Software Products Book publishing Book publishing Cable model software On-line publishing and entertainment Internet services On-line retailing related software Retail store (one)

Microsoft, the world’s number one software company, develops, manufactures, licenses, sells, and supports a wide range of products. The company offers online services, sells computer books and input devices including operating systems for intelligent devices, personal computers (PCs) and servers, server applications for client/server environments, business and consumer productivity applications, software development tools, and Internet and Intranet software and technologies. These products include the Windows and NT operating systems, Excel spreadsheets, word processing programs (MS Word), presentation tools (Power Point), and reference works (Encarta). The company recently purchased WebTV, which gave it an excellent base of technology in cable modems, and made an investment in cable operator Comcast. Windows CE software will be one of the operating systems for what may eventually be 25 million cable modems to be purchased by cable operator TCI and its affiliates. Microsoft revamped and upgraded its Microsoft Network online service. It also entered into joint ventures with the NBC television network to form MSNBC news programming. Microsoft provides relocation expenses and offers health club memberships. The company offers benefits such as paid infant care leave and the Counseling Assistance Referral and Educational Services (CARES). Most employees are eligible for stock options. In fact, this company has created more employee-millionaires than any other firm in history. In mid-1999, Microsoft raised its target for base salaries to average in the top one-third of software industry salaries.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: MSN.COM MSNBC Microsoft Network Investor Sidewalk Comcast WebTV Internet Gaming Zone

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. William H. Gates, CEO Robert J. Herbold, Exec. VP/COO Gregory B. Maffel, VP-Finance/CFO Stephen A. Ballmer, Exec. VP-Sales and Support Mike Murray, VP-Human Resources Rick Rashid, VP-Research Nathan P. Myhrvold, Group VP/Chief Tech. Officer Mike Murray, VP-Admin. Paul A. Maritz, Group VP-Platforms and Applications Bernard P. Vergnes, Sr. VP-Microsoft/Pres.-Microsoft Europe

Phone: 425-882-8080 Fax: 206-883-8101 Toll-Free: 800-285-7772 Address: One Microsoft Way, Redmond, WA, 98052-6399 Internet Address: www.microsoft.com Notes/Other Info: [email protected]

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $14,484,000 1997 Sales: $11,358,000 1996 Sales: $8,671,000 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: MSFT

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $4,490,000 1997 Profits: $3,454,000 1996 Profits: $2,195,000 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 27,055

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $536,127 Second Exec. Salary: $384,088

Bonus: $673,096 Bonus: $329,842

Owns the industry-standard PC operating system: Windows/A focus on being a leading content provider/Microsoft will be a major player in software for cable modems.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 4 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Wieden & Kennedy, Inc., Portland, OR; Anderson & Lembke Inc., San Francisco, CA

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

397

MICROTOUCH SYSTEMS INC Industry Group Code: 3341B Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 3

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 3

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Support services

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Touch and Pen-Sensitive Input Systems (supplier), Retail P.C. whiteboard Notebook computer input devices Digitizers

Founded in 1982, MicroTouch Systems, Inc. is the leading provider of comprehensive touchscreen solutions. The company is a worldwide leading supplier with manufacturing facilities on four continents, producing a steady stream of technological innovations in the touchscreen marketplace. MicroTouch’s target markets include the industrial and manufacturing markets, point-ofsale through food, restaurant and retail markets, medical, financial, computer-based training, telecommunications, gaming, entertainment, kiosk and point-of-information markets. MicroTouch products include several touchscreen kits under the ClearTek, TuffTouch, ThruGlass, TouchPen and TouchTek names, TruePoint touch monitors, Factura Kiosks, the Prospector Web Browser, the Ibid Electronic Whiteboard and the WorldService service and support program. These products are sold throughout the United States, Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Spain, Taiwan and the United Kingdom. The company also sells through a worldwide network of distribution partners in over 50 countries. In addition, MicroTouch is the worldwide distributor and fulfillment organization for IBM touch monitors. MicroTouch currently continues to invest in state-of-the-art equipment, plants and systems, increasing these investments upwards of 400% during the last four fiscal years. The company plans to continue growing through achieving improved product quality, on-time delivery, cost reduction and better utilization of its skilled employees. MicroTouch has experienced record sales levels for 14 years in a row, placing it in the position to continue acting as the leader in the rapidly growing touchscreen market.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: ClearTek Prospector ThruGlass TuffTouch WorldService Factura Composites Ibid TruePoint

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. D. Westervelt Davis, CEO D. Westervelt Davis, Pres. Geoff Clear, VP-Finance/CFO Janet Muto, VP-Mktg. Bernie Geaghan, VP-New Research and Dev. Robert Becker, VP-Engineering Jeff Shaw, VP-Oper. Joel Blenner, VP-Sales Geoff Clear, VP-Admin.

Phone: 978-659-9000 Fax: 978-659-9100 Toll-Free: Address: 300 Griffin Brook Park Drive, Methuen, MA, 01844 Internet Address: www.microtouch.com Notes/Other Info: [email protected]

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $144,400 1997 Sales: $128,500 1996 Sales: $95,000 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: MTSI

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $9,400 1997 Profits: $6,400 1996 Profits: $5,700 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

75

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $210,458 Second Exec. Salary: $207,692

Bonus: $25,000 Bonus: $100,000

Leading supplier of retail kiosk housings in the U.S./Named one of Fortune's 100 Fastest Growing Companies in America.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Allen & Gerritsen, Watertown, MA

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

398

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

MID STATES PLC Industry Group Code: 4413 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 8

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 7

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Mid-States PLC

Number of Stores: 91

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Auto Parts, Retail Automotive care products Automotive paint

Mid-States PLC, Inc. is an internationally-known retailer and distributor of quality automobile parts, care products, equipment and paint. The company currently operates five distribution centers and warehouses throughout the southern United States, as well as 91 stores. Operating states include Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi and Arkansas. Mid States PLC is currently implementing several plans condusive to industry growth in the coming years. Among these plans is the company’s restructuring process, which includes a substantial inventory reduction, consolidation of the Atlanta distribution center into the Chattanooga operation and closure of under-performing company stores. An additional aspect of this restructuring program involves reinvestment in company management information systems and store remodelings, a realigned management organization and an increased emphasis on the company stores division and general customer service. The customer service-centered aspects of the restructuring program have several objectives attached, including an objective to deliver 95% of all parts ordered within 24 hours of its order receipt. Mid States PLC believes that by maintaining a standard of excellence in customer service and satisfaction that it can leverage this aspect of the business to gain a competitive edge over others in the market.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Mid-States PLC

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Jerry Petty, VP-Oper. Michael Taylor, CFO Stephen Ball, VP-Human Resources Stephen Ball, VP-Admin. Michael Taylor, Treas.

Phone: 615-383-8566 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 485 Craighead, Nashville, TN, 37204 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $71,598 1997 Sales: $79,387 1996 Sales: $80,462 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: MSADY

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-5,053 1997 Profits: $4,800 1996 Profits: $1,665 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,010

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $ Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Displays excellence in customer service and satisfaction.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

399

MOTHERS WORK INC Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 26

Profits: 46

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

A Pea in the Pod

2,900

$354 per sq. ft. (for all stores)

Mall

115 (inlcudes Mimi Maternity)

Mimi Maternity Motherhood Maternity Maternity Works

1,600 1,200 1,700

Mall Mall (outlet) Mall (outlet)

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

285 60

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel-Women's, Retail

Beginning operations in 1982, Mothers Work, Inc. is the largest specialty retailer of maternity clothing in the United States. Until September of 1998, the company additionally dealt with the non-maternity women’s apparel market through its Episode division. Currently, Mothers Work operates 460 stores under the Mimi Maternity, A Pea in the Pod, Motherhood Maternity and Maternity Works names. These stores offer a full range of career, casual and special occasion maternity wear. In addition, the company operated 123 leased maternity departments in several stores including Lazarus, Rich’s and Macy’s. Mothers Work is vertically-integrated, performing design manufacturing, distribution and retail sales functions primarily in-house. A selected assortment of the company’s maternity apparel, gifts and other materials is available through phone orders, mail orders and through the Internet. Mothers Work targets a moderate to upscale maternity audience and its apparel lines are designed to meet the expectant mother’s entire lifestyle needs including career requirements, casual and special occasion needs. The company’s A Pea in the Pod stores offer the most upscale selection of all the stores, while Maternity Works stores offer quality maternity fashions to the woman who cannot or will not purchase at full retail prices. Motherhood remains the oldest chain specialty retailer of maternity clothes in the United States. Currently, the company is focusing on strategic objectives including Real Time Retailing, which deals with keeping the company’s fashions up-to-date, establishing prime locations and broad distribution.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Maternity Works Mimi Maternity A Pea in the Pod Motherhood Maternity

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Dan W. Matthias, CEO Rebecca C. Matthias, Pres./COO Thomas Frank, VP-Finance/CFO Lynne M. Wieder, Sr. VP-Sales Donald W. Ochs, Sr. VP-Oper.

Phone: 215-873-2200 Fax: 215-440-9845 Toll-Free: Address: 456 North 5th Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19123 Internet Address: www.motherswork.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $299,000 1997 Sales: $246,900 1996 Sales: $199,200 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: MWRK

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-16,700 1997 Profits: $-7,600 1996 Profits: $ 900 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 3,132

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $325,000 Second Exec. Salary: $302,500

Bonus: $85,000 Bonus: $40,000

Largest specialty retailer of maternity clothing in the U.S.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 3 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

400

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

MOVIE GALLERY INC Industry Group Code: 45122B Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Profits: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Hollywood Video Home Vision

3,000-5,000

$323,228 per store

In-line

828-all stores

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Video Rental Stores-Retail

Movie Gallery, Inc., a video specialty store retailer, currently owns and operates 828 video specialty stores, with 106 franchisees and licensees throughout 22 states. Since 1994, the company has grown from 97 stores to its present size through acquisition and the development of new stores, making it amongst the four largest video retailers in the United States. Recently, Movie Gallery has completed its goals of completing the restructuring of the company, completing the installation of its proprietary point-of-sale system and returning the base of stores in operation to positive same-store sales. Movie Gallery is expecting improvements in operating expense categories to complement growth in revenues. The company is also currently positioning itself to benefit from the expansion of its base stores in operation. Although the company has the capacity to develop between 125 and 150 new stores annually, it chooses to plan to open 40 to 50 new stores during its next fiscal period. These openings will be focused in the company’s core small town and rural markets, and maybe offset by the closing of other underperforming stores. Movie Gallery expects internal store development to remain its primary expansion vehicle.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Hollywood Video HomeVision Entertainment

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Joe Thomas Malugen, CEO H. Harrison Parish, Pres. J. Steven Roy, Sr. VP/CFO Jim Pagonis, Mgr.-Human Resources Richard R. Langford, Sr. VP-MIS Steven M. Hamil, Sr. VP/Controller/Chief Acc. Officer

Phone: 334-677-2108 Fax: 334-677-2140 Toll-Free: Address: 739 West Main Street, Dothan, AL, 36301 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $267,600 1997 Sales: $254,395 1996 Sales: $149,201 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: MOVI

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-23,100 1997 Profits: $1,606 1996 Profits: $13,437 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 6,100

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $200,000 Second Exec. Salary: $145,885

Bonus: $ Bonus: $21,169

Aggressive growth.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

401

MULTIPLE ZONES INTERNATIONAL INC Industry Group Code: 45411 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 14

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 23

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Direct marketing

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Computer and Software Products, Catalog Sales Computer hardware Computer software Computer peripherals Computer accessories

Multiple Zones International, Inc. is a leading international direct marketer of brand name microchip-based hardware, software, peripherals and accessories for users of both the PC/Wintel (PC) and Macintosh (MAC) operating systems. The company markets products primarily through its two flagship catalogs, The PC ZONE(R) and The MAC ZONE(R). Multiple Zones was one of the first participants in the direct marketing channel to participate in on-line sales of computer products. It has built and maintains one of the largest electronic commerce sites on the Internet. The firm’s subsidiaries and licensees are located in 26 countries worldwide, offering over 18,000 products from over 1,900 manufacturers. The company’s international strategy generally has been to enter a country through a relationship with a local entrepreneur with industry experience who can provide local knowledge for the business operations. Multiple Zones' recent business developments include launching a new special edition catalog called The Developer’s Marketplace, which will focus on the needs of application developers and offer the latest in development tools and technology. Its first issue focused on Internet/Intranet tools, as well as offered a broad selection of Rapid Application Development, Client/Server, and networking tools. The company recently announced a strategic partnership with Microsoft, LittleNet and Interworld to provide a complete, fullyfunctional electronic software distribution solution available through its Internet Superstore.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: The MAC ZONE The PC ZONE The HOME COMPUTER CATALOG The LEARNING ZONE The Developer's Marketplace Little Net Interworld

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Firoz Lalji, Pres./CEO Lorne G. Rubis, COO Peter J. Biere, Sr. VP-Finance/CFO Annette Gregorich, VP-Human Resources Chris Hauser, Sr. VP-MIS Mark Bradley, Sr. VP-Merch. Chris Hauser, VP-Oper. Guio Barela, SVP-Corp. Dev.

Phone: 425-430-3000 Fax: 425-430-3500 Toll-Free: Address: 707 South Grady Way, Renton, WA, 98055-3233 Internet Address: www.zones.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $501,400 1997 Sales: $490,000 1996 Sales: $457,000 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: MZON

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-8,300 1997 Profits: $-5,400 1996 Profits: $10,900 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

859

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $300,000 Second Exec. Salary: $225,000

Bonus: $16,150 Bonus: $18,538

Catalogs are circulated worldwide to more countries than any other catalog retailer of microcomputer products.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 4 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International: y

402

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

MUSICLAND STORES CORP Industry Group Code: 45122A Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Media Play On Cue Sam Goody Suncoast Motion Picture Company

47,000 6,200 4,300 2,400

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

$1,096,094 per store (includes Suncoast) $1,096,094 per store (includes Sam Goody)

Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line Mall Mall

69 162 696 405

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Music Stores, Retail Prerecorded music Movies and videos Related apparel and gift items Computer software

Musicland Stores Corporation is the leading specialty retailer of prerecorded music in the United States, and is one of the largest national full-media retailers of music, video sell-through, books, computer software and related products. The company operates four major branches of stores under two principal strategies: mall-based music and video sell-through stores Sam Goody and Suncoast Motion Picture Company, and non-mall based full-media superstores Media Play and On Cue. Musicland Stores Corporation currently operates 1,332 stores in 49 states, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands and the United Kingdom. Recently, the company completed restructuring programs designed to improve cash flow and profitability. These programs included closing 114 underperforming stores, closing one of the company’s two distribution centers and improving inventory management techniques. Musicland Stores Corporation’s working capital investment was reduced by $20 million, and a $6.9 million reduction in distribution costs was recorded as a result of these restructuring programs. Musicland Stores Corporation continues to implement strategies designed to further increase productivity and heighten sales figures for the future. In June of 1999, the company's website began offering gifts and prizes for selected visitors, and the company implemented a new and improved marketing strategy involving an animated spider named Dot.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Media Play On Cue Sam Goody Musicland Suncoast Motion Picture Company

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Jack W. Eugster, CEO Jack W. Eugster, Pres. Keith A. Benson, CFO Archie L. Benike, Jr., VP-Mktg. Jay K. Landauer, VP-Human Resources Eduardo A. Egusquiza, VP-Info. Systems and Services Paula M. Connerney, Sr. VP-Store Oper.

Phone: 612-931-8000 Fax: 612-931-8300 Toll-Free: Address: 10400 Yellow Circle Drive, Minnetonka, MN, 55343 Internet Address: www.requestmedia.com/commerce/advertisers/stores Notes/Other Info: 800-758-5804, ID #585763--Interactive news

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $1,846,900 1997 Sales: $1,786,312 1996 Sales: $1,821,594 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: MLG

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $38,000 1997 Profits: $13,971 1996 Profits: $-193,738 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 15,600

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $525,000 Second Exec. Salary: $502,150

Bonus: $468,167 Bonus: $704,467

The leading specialty retailer of prerecorded music in the U.S./Only full-media specialty retailer of books, computer software, prerecorded music and video products.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 5 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

403

N2K INC Industry Group Code: 4541 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 8

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 13

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Direct marketing

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Music Sales on-line Creation and distribution of music programming

N2K, Inc., recently acquired by CDNow, Inc. is the Internet’s premier music entertainment company and the only complete online resource for several aspects of music. The company operates primarily through Music Boulevard, its online music store and the world’s largest online music retail site. N2K additionally creates and distributes music programming and content through award-winning Internet music channels. This, together with the company’s online music store, forms the Music Boulevard Network. N2K owns N2K Encoded Music, an independent record company that provides original music content, and developed as well as pioneered e_mod, the first commercially viable and secure digital online music delivery system. N2K is currently pioneering a new model for music distribution that involves consumers sampling and ordering music directly from their homes or offices instead of dealing with traditional, in-store music retailers. The company sees the traditional model for music distribution as a lengthy process through which a large gap exists between the artist and the music fan. By eliminating the traditional record store as the middle man and replacing it with N2K’s efficiency and technology, the gap is greatly shortened, providing convenience for the customer. The company’s goal is to alter the relationship between artists and consumers by reorganizing the model of commerce between the two. N2K has experienced tremendous growth in past years, and anticipates even more growth in the future as Internet communications and the online music industry grows and expands.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: N2K, Inc. Music Boulevard N2K Encoded Music CDNow, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Lawrence L. Rosen, CEO James E. Coane, Pres./COO Bruce Johnston, CFO/Sr. VP Arthur S. Weiner, Sr. VP-Corp. Dev./General Counsel Bruce Johnston, Treas. Phil Ramone, Pres.-N2K Encoded Music

Phone: 212-378-5555 Fax: 212-742-1778 Toll-Free: Address: 55 Broad Street, New York, NY, 10004 Internet Address: www.cdnow.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $56,400 1997 Sales: $17,400 1996 Sales: $6,300 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: CDNW

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-43,800 1997 Profits: $-10,700 1996 Profits: $-1,800 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

211

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $470,833 Second Exec. Salary: $132,167

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

The Internet's largest music entertainment company.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

404

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

NACCO INDUSTRIES INC Industry Group Code: 443 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 4

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

The Kitchen Collection

3,000

Profits: 2

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Outlet mall

145

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Electronics, Audio, and Appliance Stores-Retail Kitchenware Electric appliance manufacturer Lignite mining Forklift trucks

NAACO Industries, Inc. is a holding company with four operating subsidiaries: The North American Coal Corporation, NAACO Materials Handling Group, Inc., Hamilton Beach/ Proctor Silex, Inc. and The Kitchen Collection, Inc. The North American Coal Corporation mines and markets lignite primarily as fuel for power generation by electric utilities, while NAACO Materials Handling Group, Inc. is a world leader in the design and manufacture of forklift trucks marketed under the brand names Hyster and Yale. Recently, the U.S. Department of the Interior’s Office of Surface Mining honored North American Coal and two of its affiliated companies with three prestigious environmental awards for surface mining and land reclamation. In addition, the company’s now closed Indian Head Mine won a “Best of the Best” award from the same department for excellence in reclaiming the mine site to cropland and native grassland. Hamilton Beach/ Proctor Silex, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of small kitchen appliances, and The Kitchen Collection, Inc. is a national specialty retailer of small electric kitchen appliances and kitchenware. NAACO Industries, Inc. is confident that its factory outlet Kitchen Collection stores will provide a sound, long-term core business for the company. Currently, new store formats and distribution channels are being implemented with the intent of providing significant growth for the company in the coming years.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: NAACO Industries, Inc. NAACO Materials Handling Group, Inc. Hamilton Beach/Proctor-Silex, Inc. The North American Coal The Kitchen Collection, Inc. Huster Yale

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Alfred M. Rankin, Jr., CEO Alfred M. Rankin, Jr., Pres. Kenneth C. Schilling, VP/Controller J.C. Butler, Jr., VP-Corporate Dev.

Phone: 216-449-9600 Fax: 216-449-9607 Toll-Free: Address: 5875 Landerbrook Drive, Mayfield Heights, OH, 44124 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $2,536,200 1997 Sales: $2,246,900 1996 Sales: $2,273,200 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: NC

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $102,300 1997 Profits: $61,800 1996 Profits: $50,600 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 13,650

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $784,856 Second Exec. Salary: $437,200

Bonus: $637,680 Bonus: $376,624

Owns stores which sell small electrical appliances such as its Hamilton Beach/Proctor-Silex products.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 4 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

405

NASH FINCH COMPANY Industry Group Code: 4451 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 11

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Econofoods Family Thrift Center Sun Mart IGA Easter Foods Food Folks

106,000 60,000 46,000

Profits: 34

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Free-standing In-line/Free-standing In line/Free-standing

27 4 62 (includes IGA)

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Grocery Stores/Supermarkets, Retail Food wholesaler

Nash Finch Company is one of the largest food wholesalers in the United States, serving primarily the midwestern and southeastern regions. In addition, the company operates 93 conventional and warehouse supermarkets in 13 states. The company’s wholesale operations serve two primary markets: supermarkets and military commissaries, where the company believes it is currently the largest distributor of grocers and related products to such facilities in the United States. Private label products are branded primarily under the Family and Fame trademarks. The company’s retail operations consist of over 60 conventional supermarkets operating principally under the Sun Mart, Easter Foods and Food Folks trade names, 27 warehouse stores operating principally under the Econofoods tradename and four combination general merchandise/food stores operating under the Family Thrift Center trade name. The company also packages, ships and markets fresh produce from California and the countries of Chile and Mexico to a variety of buyers across the United States, Canada and overseas. Recently, the company entered into a definitive agreement to purchase the five supermarkets owned by Joyce’s Inc. The company also intends to expand and remodel its distribution center. The project involves the construction of a 90,000-square-foot addition and the remodeling of existing distribution center space. In addition, Nash Finch has a five-year revitalization plan to streamline its wholesale operations and build its retail business.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Econofoods Food Bonanza Sun Mart Family Thrift Center Easter Foods Food Folks Joyce's, Inc. Economart

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Ron Marshall, Pres./CEO William E. May, Jr., Exec. VP/COO John R. Scherer, VP/CFO Charles F. Ramsbacher, VP-Mktg. Edgar F. Timberlake, VP-Human Resources Gerald D. Maurice, VP-Store Dev.

Phone: 612-832-0534 Fax: 612-844-1234 Toll-Free: Address: P.O. Box 355, Minneapolis, MN, 55440-0355 Internet Address: www.nashfinch.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $4,160,000 1997 Sales: $4,391,600 1996 Sales: $3,375,500 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: NAFC

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-61,700 1997 Profits: $-1,200 1996 Profits: $20,000 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 6,487

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $297,259 Second Exec. Salary: $187,465

Bonus: $127,187 Bonus: $31,824

Serves approximately 1,400 Affiliated brand and other independent retail supermarkets and institutional accounts with its wholesale business.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Flynn, Sabatino & Day, Inc., Miamisburg, OH; G.L. Ness Agency, Inc., Fargo, ND; Henry Russell Bruce, Cedar Rapids, IA

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

406

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

NATIONAL HOME CENTERS INC Industry Group Code: 44413 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 12

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

National Home Centers

20,200-186,406

Profits: 10

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Free-standing

9

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Building Materials/Hardware Stores, Retail Home improvement products Fabrication factories

National Home Centers, Inc. began operations in the building supply business in 1972 and subsequently opened its first store in 1977, serving primarily professional contractors. National Home Centers began implementing a dual-customer strategy in 1983, serving both professional contractors and retail consumers, but recently has shifted its target business more towards professional contractors. Currently, the company operates a total of nine stores: two large home center superstores, one appliance sales warehouse and six contractor sales locations. All National Home Centers locations operate within four Arkansas markets, including Little Rock, Northwest Arkansas, Russelville and Fort Smith. In addition, the company operates fabrication facilities for value-added conversion products such as countertops, pre-hung door units and window units. National Home Centers recently closed its Conway superstore, and later in that fiscal year, its Rodney Parham store in Little Rock and its Fayetteville superstore closed as well. The company is also reducing exposure in the retail portion of its Russelville facility. Currently, the company is implementing several strategies to help strengthen sales, profits and efficiency. National Home Centers plans to close under-performing facilities, recapitalize the company, monetize certain aspects of the business and redirect the customer focus to professional contractors.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: National Home Centers

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Dwain A. Newman, CEO Danny Funderburg, Pres./COO Brent Hanby, Exec. VP/CFO John Collins, VP-Merch.

Phone: 501-756-1700 Fax: 501-756-9122 Toll-Free: Address: Highway 265 North, Springdale, AR, 72765 Internet Address: www.nhci.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $104,700 1998 Sales: $150,800 1997 Sales: $177,000 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: NHCI

1999 Profits: $-3,000 1998 Profits: $-1,300 1997 Profits: $-3,100 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

742

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $101,440 Second Exec. Salary: $80,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Has the ability to serve both retail consumers and professional contractors.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

407

NATIONAL PROPANE PARTNERS Industry Group Code: 44719 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 7

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 6

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

National Propane

Number of Stores: 159

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Propane, Retail Home and commercial appliances

National Propane Partners, L.P. is engaged primarily in the retail marketing of propane to residential, commercial, industrial and agricultural customers, and the retail marketing of propane-related supplies and equipment, including home and commercial appliances. The company is the sixth largest retail marketer of propane in terms of volume in the United States, supplying approximately 250,000 active retail and wholesale customers in 24 states through its 159 full service centers located in 23 states. The company’s retail customers fall into four broad categories: residential customers, commercial and industrial customers, agricultural customers and deals that resell propane to residential and commercial customers. Residential customers use propane primarily for space heating, water heating, cooking and clothes drying. Commercial and industrial customers use propane for commercial applications such as cooking and clothes drying and other industrial uses. Agricultural customers use propane for tobacco curing, crop drying, poultry brooding and weed control. Recently, the company entered into several new markets through the acquisition of six retail propane distributors and the opening of five new service centers.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Triarc Companies, Inc. Southeastern Public Service Company Public Unitholders National Propane Partners, Corp. National Propane, L.P. National Sales & Service, Inc. National Propane SGP, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Ronald R. Rominiecki, CEO Ronald R. Rominiecki, Pres./COO R. Brooks Sherman, VP/CFO William Huber, VP-Mktg. C. David Watson, Sr. VP-Admin. Martin A. Woods, VP-Supply and Dist.

Phone: 319-365-1550 Fax: 319-365-6084 Toll-Free: 800-354-9213 Address: 200 First Street SE, Suite 1700, Cedar Rapids, IA, 52401 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $134,000 1997 Sales: $165,200 1996 Sales: $173,300 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: NPL

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-1,600 1997 Profits: $3,800 1996 Profits: $3,100 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

961

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $215,000 Second Exec. Salary: $210,000

Bonus: $10,000 Bonus: $45,000

Largest retail marketer in its field.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

408

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

NATIONAL RECORD MART INC Industry Group Code: 45122A Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 5

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

National Record Mart Waves Music Music Oasis Vibes Music Music X

Profits: 5

Annual Sales Per Store:

6,000-10,000

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Mall/In-line Mall/In-line Mall/In-line Mall/In-line Mall

151-all stores

3

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Music Stores, Retail

National Record Mart, Inc. is a specialty retailer of home entertainment products, including compact discs, prerecorded audio cassettes, videos and related accessories. The company is the seventh largest specialty retailer of prerecorded music in the U.S. as measured by number of stores. National Record Mart has developed four distinct store concepts, each targeting a different customer base. The company launched two new marketing initiatives in its NRM Music and Waves stores as part of its Passport program. The first initiative supports cross-selling opportunities for retailers and vendors who partner to add significant consumer value to NRM’s products, while the other dimension of the Passport program is a frequent shopper plan that provides instant rewards to consumers who purchase products at NRM stores on a repeat basis. The company has made changes, including a new store design, and has added to its management team. National Record Mart has also remodeled its older stores and increased the sales space of the newly opened stores. The company began a strategic rollout of its Music X format. Three incremental mall based locations are scheduled to be opened. NRM intends to add 20-30 new stores during fiscal year 1999, most of which will be of the Waves Music format. Last year, the company added 11 stores.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: National Record Mart NRM Music Waves Music Music Oasis Vibes Music Surplus Sounds One-Stop Entertainment Music For You

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. William A. Teitelbaum, Pres./CEO Theresa Carlise, Sr. VP/CFO C. Michael Stephenson, VP-Mktg. Larry K. Mundorf, VP-Store Oper.

Phone: 412-276-6200 Fax: 412-276-6201 Toll-Free: Address: P.O. Box 2003, Carnegie, PA, 15106 Internet Address: www.nrmmusic.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $112,488 1997 Sales: $99,439 1996 Sales: $99,084 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: NRMI

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $ 893 1997 Profits: $-1,101 1996 Profits: $-3,884 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,305

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $225,000 Second Exec. Salary: $150,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Operates four distinct store concepts targeted for different customer segments.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

409

NATURAL WONDERS INC Industry Group Code: 446191 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 3

Profits: 3

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Natural Wonders

2,500

$792,703 per store/$317 per sq. ft.

Mall

189

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Science and Nature-Inspired Gifts, Retail Games Educational toys Books

Natural Wonders, Inc. operates specialty gift retail stores full of unique and affordable family gifts inspired by the wonders of science and nature. The company operates 189 stores in 36 states, covering all regions of the United States, offering a wide variety of merchandise, including telescopes, mineral carvings, globes, personal care products, bird feeders, ceramics, wind chimes, apparel, and a variety of interactive toys and games. The merchandise is assorted into nine main categories, including Kids & Discovery, Home, Garden/Backyard, Apparel Geology, Outdoor, Music and Video, Jewelry, Books and Office. Target customers are predominantly well educated, middle income families. The company recently closed two stores, but opened nine stores with permanent locations and 12 stores with temporary locations. Natural Wonders also acquired 12 new locations through the purchase of substantially all the operating assets of What A World!, Inc. Currently, the company plans to open nine new stores and, during the holiday season, approximately 20 temporary locations. A new information system has recently been introduced into the company, as has a program to build strong brand equity. These recent developments are intended to help strengthen the company and differentiate Natural Wonders by making it first in the marketplace.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Natural Wonders, Inc. What A World!, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Peter G. Hanelt, Pres./CEO Peter G. Hanelt, COO Peter G. Hanelt, CFO Judith A. Soares, VP-Info. Systems Sheila S. Arnold, Sr. VP/General Merch. Mgr. William J. Soncini, VP-Oper. Roxanne P. Kurkjian, VP-Merch. Admin. and Planning Teresa L. Rutherford, VP-Merch. and Product Dev. Peter W. Rusnak, VP-Real Estate

Phone: 510-252-9600 Fax: 510-252-6795 Toll-Free: Address: 4209 Technology Drive, Fremont, CA, 94538 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $149,800 1998 Sales: $149,200 1997 Sales: $138,773 1996 Sales: $138,080 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: NATW

1999 Profits: $-1,900 1998 Profits: $1,400 1997 Profits: $2,901 1996 Profits: $1,810 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 2,600

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $360,000 Second Exec. Salary: $201,016

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Unique products.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 3 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

410

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

NATURE'S SUNSHINE PRODUCTS INC Industry Group Code: 446191 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 2

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Direct marketing

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Health Care Products, Retail Specialty retailing Vitamns and nutritionals

Nature's Sunshine Products, Inc., a direct selling company, manufactures and markets tableted and encapsulated herbal products, natural vitamins, food supplements, skin care and other complementary products. The company’s marketing operations exist in the U.S., Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, Japan, South Korea, Canada, Venezuela, the United Kingdom, El Salvador, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Peru, Panama, Argentina, Ecuador, Honduras and Nicaragua. Nature’s Sunshine Products, Inc. also has exclusive distribution agreements with selected companies in Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia and Norway. Worldwide, the company has a network of over 600,000 distributors with 165,000 in the United States. Recently, the company introduced 38 new product formulations. Among the new offerings were Ultimate Echinacea, two new diet formulations and a new line of personal care products. The company also recently opened a new 130,000 square-foot, multi-million dollar manufacturing and warehouse facility in Spanish Fork, Utah that will allow doubling of current production capabilities. Nature’s Sunshine marketing strategy is one in which its distributors know the company’s products intimately through typical personal use of products and familiarity with current information through extensive educational programs, which include regional meetings, conventions, publications and videos. Nature’s Sunshine plans to continue to expand in foreign markets, especially Latin American markets, as non-U.S. markets accounted for more than 35% of the company’s sales.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Colloidal Silver Fat Grabbers Morinda Botanical Benefits Herbal HP Fighters Ultimate Echinacea

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Daniel P. Howells, CEO Douglas Faggioli, COO/Exec. VP Craig D. Huff, CFO Joseph A. Speirs, VP-Mktg. Eugene L. Hughes, Sr. VP-Customer Relations Brent F. Ashworth, VP-Legal Affairs Dale G. Lee, Exec. VP-U.S.A. Sales

Phone: 801-342-4300 Fax: 801-342-4305 Toll-Free: Address: 75 East 1700 South, Provo, UT, 84606 Internet Address: www.nsponline.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $296,100 1997 Sales: $280,900 1996 Sales: $249,000 1995 Sales: $205,556

Stock Ticker: NATR

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $23,200 1997 Profits: $20,100 1996 Profits: $16,800 1995 Profits: $11,878

Employees:

971

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $275,600 Second Exec. Salary: $208,362

Bonus: $110,240 Bonus: $70,000

International growth.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

411

NCR CORPORATION Industry Group Code: 3341A Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 5

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 4

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Direct marketing

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Computer and Software Products Barcode scanning equipment ATMs Transaction processing equipment Cash registers

Originally incorporated in 1884, NCR Corporation is a global solutions company with leading positions in the production of automatic teller machines (ATM's), point-ofsale terminals and scanners and high-end scalable data warehousing. The company operates in the information technology industry, designing, developing, marketing and selling technology products, services, systems and solutions throughout the world. More specifically, NCR serves the retail, financial and communications industries by providing them with specific business solutions. The company has a broad technical support system, including worldwide customer support services and professional consulting offerings. The company's software, hardware, consulting and support services additionally join with consumable and media products marketed and designed by NCR's Systemedia division to form the core of the company's business. Several segments operate within NCR, among them Worldwide Customer Services, Computer Systems Group, Systemedia Group, Financial Solutions Group and Retail Solutions Group. The company owns approximately 1,200 patents in the United States and 1,350 in other countries. Recently, the company moved into an extensive cross-licensing agreement with AT&T and Lucent Technologies, Inc.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Retail Systems Group Financial Systems Group Computer Systems Group Worldwide Services Group Systemedia Group

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Lars Nyberg, CEO Lars Nyberg, Pres. John L. Giering, Sr. VP/CFO Richard Hunt Evans, Sr. VP-Global Human Resources Dennis A. Roberson, Sr. VP/Chief Tech. Officer Hideaki Takahashi, Sr. VP-Worldwide Field Organization Per-Olof Loof, Sr. VP-Financial Systems Group

Phone: 937-445-5000 Fax: 937-445-1862 Toll-Free: Address: 1700 South Patterson Blvd., Dayton, OH, 45479 Internet Address: www.ncr.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $6,505,000 1997 Sales: $6,589,000 1996 Sales: $6,963,000 1995 Sales: $8,461,000

Stock Ticker: NCR

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $122,000 1997 Profits: $7,000 1996 Profits: $-109,000 1995 Profits: $-203,000

Employees: 331,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $873,862 Second Exec. Salary: $375,823

Bonus: $129,500 Bonus: $11,932

Long-term expertise in cash registers and point-of-sale equipment.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Foote Cone & Belding, New York, NY

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

412

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

NEIMAN MARCUS GROUP INC (THE) Industry Group Code: 4521 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 12

Profits: 12

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Neiman Marcus Bergdorf Goodman Bergdorf Goodman Men The Galleries of Neiman Marcus Neiman Marcus Clearance Center

143,000 250,000 66,000 10,000-15,000 25,000

$58,567,741 per store/$416 per sq. ft.

Free-standing/Mall In-line In-line Free-standing Free-standing/In-line

31 1 1 1 7

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Department stores, Retail Men's apparel Mail order

The Neiman Marcus Group, Inc. specializes in high-end retail sales, and focuses towards a largely affluent customer base. Upscale department stores Neiman Marcus, Bergdorf Goodman and the company’s mail order division, NM Direct, focus on showcasing global designer brands such as Prada, Armani, Chanel and Gucci, among other emerging yet highly filtered designers. In addition to apparel, the company also presents more distinctive and unusual upscale merchandise to its customers such as specialized jet-skis, fine jewelry, chocolates, perfumes and accessories. Currently, Neiman Marcus, Inc. is expanding its locations. A Honolulu, Hawaii location was added recently, and a Palm Beach, Florida location will be added in 2000, as well as locations in Coral Gables, Florida, Tampa, Florida, and Long Island, New York. Additional new locations are planned for Houston, Texas and Plano, Texas, and Bergdorf Goodman plans to expand as well. The company is well-known for focusing on maintaining its customer base through personal contact: invitations to events, thank-you notes, birthday greetings and personal correspondence alerting customers that new merchandise has arrived.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Neiman Marcus Bergdorf Goodman Bergdorf Goodman Men NM Direct Horchow Harcourt General, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Richard A. Smith, CEO Robert A. Smith, Pres./COO John R. Cook, Sr. VP/CFO

Phone: 637-232-0760 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 27 Boylston Street, Chestnut Hill, MA, 02167 Internet Address: www.neimanmarcus.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $2,373,300 1997 Sales: $2,209,900 1996 Sales: $2,075,000 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: NMG

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $106,300 1997 Profits: $91,200 1996 Profits: $77,400 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 11,800

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $750,000 Second Exec. Salary: $500,000

Bonus: $292,500 Bonus: $174,000

One of the best names in the department store business/Reputation for selling quality products.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 4 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

413

NEW WEST EYEWORKS INC Industry Group Code: 44613 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 6

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 3

Annual Sales Per Store:

Lee Optical Vista Optical

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Mall/In-line/Leased departments Mall/In-line/Leased departments

167-all stores

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Eyeglasses, Retail

New West Eyeworks, Inc. is a leading specialty eyewear retailer operating under the Vista Optical and Lee Optical trade names. 167 value-priced optical stores spread throughout malls, strip shopping centers and Fred Meyer locations in 13 states across the United States. New West Eyeworks employs a value-pricing strategy featuring a signature $64 price point for a broad selection of quality, brand name eyewear. Professional service and convenience are high up on the company’s priority list as well. Brand-name contact lenses, non-prescription and prescription sunglasses are additionally included in the company’s merchandise offerings, putting the stores a step above many competitors that solely offer eyeglasses. Customers can obtain on-site eye examinations at New West Eyeworks locations by independent optometrists. The company is continually enhancing its store design to provide an increased customer appeal. New West recently implemented a fresh store design in its new and remodeled stores, including different store colors, improved lighting, enhanced eyeglass frame displays, wood floors and improvements in other store fixtures and furniture.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Lee Optical Vista Optical

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Barry J. Feld, Pres./CEO James W. Swanson, Exec. VP/COO Darius J. DiTallo, VP-Finance/CFO Ronald E. Weinberg, Treas.

Phone: 602-438-1330 Fax: 602-431-1060 Toll-Free: Address: 2104 West Southern Avenue, Tempe, AZ, 85282 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $49,212 1997 Sales: $43,940 1996 Sales: $40,033 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: NEWI

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $1,809 1997 Profits: $ 802 1996 Profits: $-2,025 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

652

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $189,423 Second Exec. Salary: $139,411

Bonus: $15,000 Bonus: $

Utilizes a unique value-pricing strategy.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

414

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

NOODLE KIDOODLE INC Industry Group Code: 45112C Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Profits: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Noodle Kidoodle

10,100

$2,568,714 per store/$254 per sq. ft.

Mall/In-line

42

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Toys, Retail Children's books Children's games Children's video and audio tapes Children's computer software Learning products

Founded in 1946, Noodle Kidoodle, Inc. is a specialty retailer of educationally oriented, creative and non-violent children’s toys, books, games, video and audio tapes, computer software, crafts and other learning products. Originally operating as Greenman Bros. Inc., the company eventually shifted its name and its focus towards the retail toy business and away from wholesale distribution. Noodle Kidoodle, Inc. currently operates 42 stores, with 11 in New York, five in New Jersey, seven in Illinois, four in Michigan, three in Massachusetts, two in Connecticut, five in Texas, one in Florida, and one in Oklahoma. The current stores range in size from 6,100 to 13,300 sq. ft. Noodle Kidoodle’s special innovative features such as computer centers, play areas and Kidoodle Theaters encourage children to try toys before they buy them. These areas demonstrate a variety of the company’s products and promote interaction between the children and over 20,000 of these items. The Kidoodle Theater, present in each store, showcases children’s authors, costumed characters, children’s entertainers, arts and crafts workshops, storytimes, software and Liberty Science Center demonstrations. Each store’s child-centered design features low shelving, wide aisles, carpeting, open spaces and clearly categorized areas of merchandise.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Noodle Kidoodle Playworld Toy Park

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Stanley Greenman, CEO Stewart Katz, Pres./COO/Asst. Sec. Kenneth S. Betuker, VP/CFO/Sec. Henry S.Y. Lee, VP-Mktg. Stanley Greenman, Treas.

Phone: 516-677-0500 Fax: 516-677-0520 Toll-Free: Address: 6801 Jericho Turnpike, Syosset, NY, 11791 Internet Address: www.noodlekidoodle.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $107,900 1998 Sales: $81,700 1997 Sales: $59,410 1996 Sales: $32,143 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: NKID

1999 Profits: $3,800 1998 Profits: $-1,900 1997 Profits: $-7,492 1996 Profits: $-14,331 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

926

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $275,000 Second Exec. Salary: $250,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

All products conform to the company's creative, non-violent and educational merchandising strategy.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Berenter Greenhouse & Webster, Inc., New York, NY

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

415

NORDSTROM INC Industry Group Code: 4521 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 10

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Nordstrom Nordstrom Rack Facconable Boutiques Hawaii Shoe Stores

71,000-390,000 19,000-57,000 8,000-17,000 8,000-14,000

Profits: 9

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Mall In-line

67 25 3 2

Free-standing

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Department Stores, Retail Outlet stores Men's specialty store Catalog sales Leased shoe departments

In operation for over a century, Nordstrom, Inc. has grown greatly as a company since its days as a shoe retailer under the name Wallin & Nordstrom in 1901. Currently, Nordstrom, Inc. has developed into a specialty fashion retailer with 99 stores located in 22 states, including 68 full-line department stores under the name Nordstrom, 25 Nordstrom Rack stores selling discounted Nordstrom merchandise, one clearance store, three Facconable Boutiques and two free standing shoe stores in Hawaii. Nordstrom focuses on selling high quality merchandise to its customer and promoting service-oriented ideals throughout the company. Nordstrom is additionally expanding its locations to include full-line department stores in Norfolk, Virginia, Providence, Rhode Island, Mission Viejo, California, Columbia, Maryland, Los Angeles, California and Spokane, Washington. Including Nordstrom Rack Stores and Facconable Boutiques, Nordstrom recently increased retail space by over 800,000 square feet in the last fiscal year. Other divisions of the company include the Nordstrom Product Group and the Nordstrom National Credit Bank, which operate as distinct and self-contained units. Of the company's officials and managers, 23.2% are minorities, and 35.7% of the employees in the entire work force are minorities. The company experiences a very low employee turnover of only 25% annually.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Nordstrom Nordstrom Rack Facconable Hawaii Shoes Stores Last Chance Clearance Stores Nordstrom Product Groups Nordstrom National Credit Bank

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Blake W. Nordstrom, Co-Pres. William E. Nordstrom, Co-Pres. Joseph V. Demarte, VP-Human Resources James A. Nordstrom, Co-Pres. Peter E. Nordstrom, Co-Pres.

Phone: 206-628-2111 Fax: 206-628-1795 Toll-Free: Address: 1501 Fifth Avenue, Seattle, WA, 98101- 1603 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $5,027,900 1998 Sales: $4,851,600 1997 Sales: $4,453,100 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: NOBE

1999 Profits: $206,700 1998 Profits: $186,200 1997 Profits: $147,500 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 42,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $365,000 Second Exec. Salary: $325,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $162,500

Focus on top-quality customer service/Highly-motivated, high-commission sales force.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 12 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 4 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Elgin DDB, Seattle, WA; Fallon-McElligott, Minneapolis, MN

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

416

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

O'REILLY AUTOMOTIVE INC Industry Group Code: 4413 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 4

Profits: 4

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Hi/LO-O'Reilly Auto Parts

3,000-40,000

$1,368,000 per store/$238 per sq. ft.

Free-standing/In-line

491

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Auto Parts, Retail Tools Automotive supplies Automotive equipment Accessories

O’Reilly Automotive, Inc. is a specialty retailer and supplier of automotive aftermarket parts, tools, supplies, equipment and accessories to both do-it-yourself customers and professional mechanics or service technicians. The company operates approximately 219 stores within the states of Missouri, Arkansas, Kansas, and Oklahoma. The stores carry an extensive product line consisting of new and remanufactured automotive hard parts, maintenance items, accessories and a complete line of autobody paint and related materials, automotive tools and professional service equipment. The company recently opened a new 122,800 square foot distribution center in Oklahoma City. To accommodate its growth, the company recently hired 800 new employees. The company believes that technical proficiency on the part of each sales specialist is essential to meet the needs of its customers. The company screens prospective employees to identify highly motivated individuals with either experience in automotive parts or repairs, or an aptitude for automotive knowledge. Each person who becomes an employee first participates in an intensive two-day orientation program designed to introduce the employee to the company culture and specific job duties before being assigned specific job responsibilities. In the future, the company plans to continue rapid growth by expanding its market area to include Nebraska and Iowa; in 1998, it opened 50 new stores.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: O'Reilly Auto Parts O'Reilly Automotive BrakeBest Omnispark Ozark Automotive Distributors, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. David E. O'Reilly, Pres./CEO Lawrence P. O'Reilly, Pres./COO James R. Batten, CPA, CFO Ron Byerly, VP-Training, Mktg., and Advertising Steve Pope, VP-Human Resources Greg Henslee, VP-Store Oper.

Phone: 417-862-6708 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 233 South Patterson, Springfield, MO, 65801 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $616,300 1997 Sales: $259,243 1996 Sales: $201,492 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: ORLY

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $30,800 1997 Profits: $18,971 1996 Profits: $14,091 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 7,877

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $258,500 Second Exec. Salary: $199,000

Bonus: $258,500 Bonus: $199,000

Serves both do-it-yourself customers and professional mechanics or service technicians.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 6 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

417

OFFICE DEPOT INC Industry Group Code: 4532 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Profits: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Office Depot Images/Office Depot Express Furniture At Work Office Depot (Int'l Stores-excludes Canada)

27,500

$7,305,728 per store/$266 per sq. ft.

In-line

702

$12,039,908 per store

In-line

87

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Office Supplies, Retail Contract stationer

Office Depot, Inc. operates a national chain of highvolume retail office products stores, provides delivery of its products in the U.S. and Canada to its store and catalog customers and is a full-service contract stationer serving businesses throughout the U.S. The company sells its products at significant discounts at its stores and through its delivery and contract stationer business. Office Depot’s retail stores utilize a warehouse format and carry a wide selection of merchandise, including general office supplies, business machines, computers, office furniture and other business-related products. The company also utilizes smaller store formats under the names Images, Furniture at Work and Office Depot express, which offer copy center services, office furniture and accessories and design services including showrooms for the company’s stationary business. The company opened a total of 41 stores last year and expects to open between 80 and 100 new stores next year. Office Depot has been expanding in foreign markets through licensing and joint venture agreements, and in the last five years the company has opened a total of 45 office Depot stores in Colombia, France, Hungary, Israel, Japan, Mexico, Poland and Thailand. The company is also expanding international sales through its catalog retailing subsidiary, Viking Office Products. Office Depot has made a commitment to recruiting and training associates. Human Resources managers and operations personnel visit college campuses and recruit students as management trainees. Office Depot University offers associates a series of leadership workshops and programs. The company has expanded its orientation program for new hires, and has a business casual dress working environment.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Office Depot The Office Place Eastman Office Products Wilson Business Products L.E. Muran Yorkship Business Supply Silvers, Inc. Viking Office Products

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. David I. Fuente, CEO John C. Macatee, Pres./COO Barry J. Goldstein, CFO/VP-Finance Harry S. Brown, Exec. VP-Mktg. Thomas Kroeger, Exec. VP-Human Resources William P. Seltzer, Exec. VP-MIS Harry S. Brown, Exec. VP-Merch. M. Bruce Nelson, Pres.-Int'l Oper.

Phone: 561-278-4800 Fax: 561-265-4001 Toll-Free: Address: 2200 Old Germantown Road, Delray Beach, FL, 33445 Internet Address: www.officedepot.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $8,997,700 1997 Sales: $6,717,514 1996 Sales: $6,068,598 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: ODP

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $233,200 1997 Profits: $159,676 1996 Profits: $129,042 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 44,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $1,000,000 Second Exec. Salary: $800,020

Bonus: $2,033,846 Bonus: $1,036,000

Buying power/Locations across the U.S.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Wyse Advertising, Cleveland, OH; Wahlstrom & Company, Stamford, CT

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

418

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

OFFICEMAX INC Industry Group Code: 4532 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 3

Profits: 3

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

OfficeMax Office Max PDQ

23,500 5,000-7,000

$5,151,743 per store/$219 per sq. ft.

In-line

842 1

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Office Supplies, Retail Delivery centers National catalog call centers

OfficeMax, Inc., a relatively new company, is one of the fastest growing specialty retailers in the United States. With over 800 full-size superstores in 48 states, Puerto Rico, Mexico and Japan, OfficeMax exists as the country’s largest office products superstore operator in terms of number of stores and breadth of geographic coverage. OfficeMax serves as a provider of quality office products to small and large businesses, home offices and individual customers. OfficeMax’s subsidiary divisions, CopyMax and FurnitureMax, aid in the company’s goal to supply the consumer with a broad range of office products and services by specializing in and focusing on certain company products. Additionally, OfficeMax operates 17 delivery centers and two national catalog call centers to accommodate larger companies with over 20 members. OfficeMax centers its business around a customeroriented philosophy and a broad selection of quality office merchandise. Currently, OfficeMax, Inc. plans to enhance existing computer systems, implement a number of new marketing initiatives, continue strengthening its management team and aggressively continue to expand nationally and internationally by adding new locations. In 1999, the company plans to open 120 new OfficeMax stores. OfficeMax is good place for those seeking managementtrainee posts.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: DirectMax Plus FurnitureMax CopyMax OfficeMax On-line

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Michael Feuer, CEO Jeffrey L. Rutherford, Exec. VP/CFO James P. Mastrian, Sr. VP-Mktg. Judith A. Shoulak, VP-Human Resources and Retail Stores James P. Mastrian, Sr. VP-Merch. Edward L. Cornell, Exec. VP-New Business Dev. John C. Martin, Pres.-Retail Stores Mark L. Keschl, Sr. VP-Real Estate

Phone: 216-921-6900 Fax: 216-283-3365 Toll-Free: Address: 3605 Warrensville Center Road, Shaker Heights, OH, 44122 Internet Address: www.officemax.com Notes/Other Info: GO:[email protected]

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $4,337,768 1998 Sales: $3,765,444 1997 Sales: $3,179,274 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: OMX

1999 Profits: $48,620 1998 Profits: $89,620 1997 Profits: $68,805 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 19,050

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $950,000 Second Exec. Salary: $423,077

Bonus: $712,500 Bonus: $239,275

Buying power/Locations across the U.S.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Campbell-Ewald Company, Warren, MI

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

419

ONE PRICE CLOTHING STORES INC Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 24

Profits: 45

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

The One Price Store

3,300

$530,906 per store/$161 per sq. ft.

In-line/Mall

618

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel Stores, Retail Children's apparel Accessories

One Price Clothing Stores, Inc. operates a growing chain of off-price retail women’s and children’s specialty stores offering a wide variety of first quality, contemporary, inseason apparel and accessories for $7. One Price Clothing purchases merchandise at heavily discounted prices in large quantities from a broad mix of manufacturers, jobbers, importers and other suppliers. The company has approximately 618 stores throughout 27 states. One Price Clothing Stores recently opened 64 stores, relocated 13 stores, and closed 49 underperforming stores. The company's current strategy is to open stores larger than its competitors. One Price Clothing Stores' typical locations usually span over approximately 3,300 square feet. The company has stores in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: One Price Clothing Store

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Larry I. Kelley, CEO Larry I. Kelley, Pres. Stephen A. Feldman, Exec. VP/CFO Alphonse J. Nepa, Sr. VP-Merch. Ronald C. Swedin, Sr. VP-Oper. George V. Zalitis, Sr. VP-Planning, Allocation & Dist.

Phone: 864-433-8888 Fax: 864-433-9584 Toll-Free: Address: P.O. Box 2487, Spartanburg, SC, 29304-2487 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $328,059 1998 Sales: $302,285 1997 Sales: $298,986 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: ONPR

1999 Profits: $4,383 1998 Profits: $-11,320 1997 Profits: $-1,267 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 3,900

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $345,000 Second Exec. Salary: $310,769

Bonus: $ Bonus: $150,000

Discount prices/Over 600 stores.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

420

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

ONSALE INC Industry Group Code: 4541 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 4

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 8

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

On-line

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Computer and Software Products

A pioneer of the interactive online auction format of retailing, Onsale, Inc. operates onsale.com, an Internet retail auction site. The company's selling format serves as an efficient and entertaining marketing channel for products typically unavailable through more conventional distributing means. Specializations of the company include selling excess, refurbished and close-out merchandise over the Web to businesses, resellers and general consumers. Everything from computers, peripherals, housewares, consumer electronics, sporting goods and vacation packages are sold at online.com, as well as a variety of additional merchandise. The company believes that the freshness and exciting nature of Internet auctioning as an alternative to traditional retailing offers customers a viable and more desirable shopping option. The company additionally believes that the edge Onsale, Inc. is gaining in this emerging market is putting it in a leading place in the world retail market. Onsale, Inc. is currently relocating several of its facilities, including accounting, engineering and Web site operation facilities to a new principal building located in Menlo Park, California. This move should bring smoother operations and better communication to the company as a whole.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Onsale.com

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. S. Jerrold Kaplan, Pres./CEO Jeffery F. Sheahan, Sr. VP/COO John Labbett, Sr. VP/CFO Alan S. Fisher, Sr. VP/Chief Tech. Officer Martha D. Greer, VP-Merch. Mgmt. Dennis J. Separd, VP-Oper. Alan S. Fisher, VP-Dev. and Oper. Merle W. McIntosh, Sr. VP-Merch. Acquisition

Phone: 650-470-2400 Fax: 650-473-6990 Toll-Free: Address: 1350 Willow Road, Ste. 202, Menlow Park, CA, 94205 Internet Address: www.onsale.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $207,751 1997 Sales: $88,981 1996 Sales: $14,269 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: ONSL

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-14,666 1997 Profits: $-2,472 1996 Profits: $ 361 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

200

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $126,421 Second Exec. Salary: $125,960

Bonus: $38,771 Bonus: $40,000

Efficient/entertaining marketing channel.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

421

ORCHARD SUPPLY HARDWARE Industry Group Code: 44413 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales:

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Orchard Supply Hardware

Number of Stores: 76

TYPES OF BUSINESS: Building Materials/Hardware Stores, Retail

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES:

Orchard Supply Hardware, a subsidiary of Sears, Inc. is an operator of hardware and gardening superstores with 76 locations in California, primarily targeting the do-ityourself homeowner. Each of the company’s stores offer a selection of over 45,000 items in the following areas: industrial and domestic hardware, lawn and garden, nursery, paints, plumbing/bath, electrical/lighting, seasonal, housewares/gadgets and workgear. Orchard Supply Hardware offers special services for commercial account holders, including ordering by fax, express commercial checkout, and special offers/discounts. The company has been acquired by Sears, which will give it a parent company with deep pockets for future expansion.

Club OSH Sears

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Jerry Post, CEO

Phone: 408-281-3500 Fax: 408-629-7174 Toll-Free: Address: 6450 Via Del Oro, San Jose, CA, 95119 Internet Address: www.osh.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $ 1997 Sales: $ 1996 Sales: $532,439 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: Acquired

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $ 1997 Profits: $ 1996 Profits: $11,607 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 2,564

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $ Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Targets do-it-yourself market/Wide selection.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Young & Rubicam San Francisco, San Francisco, CA

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

422

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

OSHMAN'S SPORTING GOODS INC Industry Group Code: 45111 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 3

Profits: 5

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Oshman's SuperSports USA

11,000 59,000

$1,545,454 $6,571,428

In-line/Mall In-line/Mall

21 42

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Sporting Goods, Retail

Oshman’s Sporting Goods, Inc. operates a chain of retail sporting goods specialty stores. 21 traditional stores and 42 SuperSports USA megastores are located in medium to large metropolitan areas across the U.S. Oshman’s offers a full line of sporting goods equipment, sportswear and athletic footwear from nationally advertised name brands and from its own labels. SuperSports USA locations offer a variety of specialty areas that concentrate on specific sporting categories, as well as a variety of play areas where customers can try out sporting goods merchandise. Oshman’s is working towards transforming its business by focusing efforts on opening and operating the SuperSports USA megastores which account for 89% of the company’s retail sales. The company considers its most important single project to be the implementation of a new merchandise information system that will coordinate its merchandising, operations and systems organizations. The project is expected to bring improvement in sales, margins and a higher return on inventory investments.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Oshman's Oshman's SuperSports USA

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Alvin N. Lubetkin, CEO Alvin C. Lubetkin, Pres. T. L. Grady, Sr. VP/CFO A. Lynn Boerner, VP/Chief Acc. Officer

Phone: 713-928-3171 Fax: 713-967-8276 Toll-Free: Address: 2302 Maxwell Lane, Houston, TX, 77023 Internet Address: www.oshmans.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $309,057 1998 Sales: $342,609 1997 Sales: $365,879 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: OSH

1999 Profits: $-1,351 1998 Profits: $5,073 1997 Profits: $-27,250 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 3,182

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $389,900 Second Exec. Salary: $115,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $33,000

Features play areas that provide customers a play-before-you-pay approach.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 3 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Fogarty Klein & Partners, Houston, TX

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

423

PACIFIC SUNWEAR OF CALIFORNIA INC Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 28

Profits: 20

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Pacific Sunwear d.e.m.o. Pacific Sunwear Outlet

3,000 2,000 4,000

$1,034,000 per store/$403 per sq. ft.

Mall

320 15 9

In-line

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel Stores, Retail Footwear Accessories

Pacific Sunwear of California, Inc. is a mall-based specialty retailer of everyday casual apparel, footwear and accessories designed to meet the lifestyle needs of active teens and young adults. The company's customers are primarily young men aged 12 to 22, as well as young women of the same age who generally prefer a casual look. Pacific Sunwear currently operates 320 Pacific Sunwear stores, 9 Pacific Sunwear Outlet stores and 15 d.e.m.o. stores, for a total of 342 stores in 43 states. Pacific Sunwear management recently launched a second division, d.e.m.o., that will offer branded apparel consistent with the urban street life popularized by contemporary music artists. The d.e.m.o. stores will offer branded apparel, accessories, and shoes that are central to this look. With only a few regional retailers effectively catering to this consumer group, the company can establish a strong, professionally managed specialty retail chain catering to this under-served market. This concept will be launched with 15 stores averaging 2,000 square feet and offering brand names such as Nautica, Polo, Timberland, Carhart, Helly Hansen, Nike, Adidas, Fila, FUBU, Pelle Pelle and Mecca. These brands represent denim, work wear, sport fashion, and street fashions, addressing a completely different consumer group.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Pacific Sunwear Diversion Island Force Bullhead Breakdown Hoax Rare Brew D.E.M.O.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Greg Weaver, CEO Timothy M. Harmon, Pres. Carl Womack, Sr. VP/CFO Timoth M. Harmon, Chief Merch. Officer Robert G. Entersz, VP-Merch. Gary C. W. Hunt, VP-Product Dev.

Phone: 714-693-8066 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 5200 East La Palma Avenue, Anaheim, CA, 92807 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $321,125 1998 Sales: $277,130 1997 Sales: $155,262 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: PSUN

1999 Profits: $23,505 1998 Profits: $16,358 1997 Profits: $7,412 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 4,058

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $434,908 Second Exec. Salary: $265,550

Bonus: $478,125 Bonus: $193,125

Well positioned and widely recognized in its market segments.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

424

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

PAMIDA HOLDINGS CORPORATION Industry Group Code: 45291 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 10

Profits: 12

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Pamida Hearland Home Furnishings

43,000 43,000

$4,605,438 per store/$107 per sq. ft.

Free-standing Free-standing

146 1

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Discount department stores

Pamida Holdings Corporation’s principal subsidiary, Pamida, Inc., operates 147 mass merchandise retail stores existing in 15 states throughout the Midwest, North Central and Rocky Mountain areas. Pamida stores carry a large assortment of value-priced merchandise and maintains a competitive edge by offering its merchandise in small, rural communities. Pamida’s wide variety of goods range from shoes to hand towels, which provides its customers with a convenient one-stop shopping experience. Recently, Pamida, Inc. dramatically strengthened its capital structure through the conversion of $36 million of debt and preferred equity to common stock. Additionally, the company’s marketing and research divisions focused more on market strategy to increase instocks and assortment breadth. Pamida also opened a distribution center in Lebanon, Indiana to increase store growth through location expansion. Currently, the company is investing in more sophisticated computer systems, financial software upgrades and merchandise managing systems. Pamida is dedicated to responding to its customer’s ever-changing needs, and it asserts that its customer-focused marketing analysis methods will enable them to please. Additionally, Pamida introduced its web page and is exploring the idea of expanding into Internetenabled retailing.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Pamida, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Steven S. Fishman, CEO Steven S. Fishman, Pres. George R. Mibalko, Sr. VP/CFO Paul L. Knutson, Sr. VP-Human Resources Kurt Streitz, Sr. VP/CIO Steven D. Robinson, Sr. VP/General Merch. Mgr. George R. Mibalko, Treas.

Phone: 402-596-7259 Fax: 402-596-7291 Toll-Free: Address: 8800 F Street, Omaha, NE, 68127 Internet Address: www.pamida.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $672,394 1998 Sales: $657,017 1997 Sales: $633,189 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: PAM

1999 Profits: $4,546 1998 Profits: $5,021 1997 Profits: $- 796 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 2,900

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $500,050 Second Exec. Salary: $270,185

Bonus: $234,242 Bonus: $128,833

Stores are located in small towns, primarily county seats, where there is little or no competition.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

425

PANTRY INC (THE) Industry Group Code: 44512 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 6

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

The Pantry Lil' champ

2,400

Profits: 8

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Free-standing

480

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Convenience Stores-Retail

The Pantry, Inc., a privately held company, is a leading operator of convenience stores in the southeast particularly in North and South Carolina. The company's 953 stores are located primarily in smaller towns and suburban areas under the names The Pantry, Quick Stop, QS, Express Stop, Dash, Smokers Express and Sprint. The company’s stores offer a broad selection of merchandise designed to appeal to the convenience needs of its customers, including tobacco products, beer, soft drinks, self-service fast food and beverages, publications, dairy products, groceries, health and beauty aids, video games, money orders and lottery products. Approximately 50% of The Pantry’s revenues come from the sale of self-service gasoline under brand names including Amoco, British Petroleum, Chevron, Exxon, Shell and Texaco. The company has experienced rapid growth over the past few years; Pantry more than doubled in size in late 1997 with the acquisition of 480 Lil’ Champ Food Stores from Docks U.S.A., Inc., and the recent purchase of an additional 154 stores.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Quick Stop QS Express Stop Dash Smokers Express Sprint Lil’ Champ Food Stores Docks U.S.A., Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Peter J. Sodini, CEO Peter J. Sodini, Pres. William T. Flyg, Sr. VP/CFO Daniel J. McCormack, VP-Mktg. Douglas M. Sweeney, Sr. VP-Oper. Dennis R. Crook, Sr. VP-Admin. and Gasoline Mktg.

Phone: 919-774-6700 Fax: 919-775-5428 Toll-Free: Address: P. O. Box 1410, 1801 Douglas Dr., Sanford, NC, 27331-1410 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $984,900 1997 Sales: $427,400 1996 Sales: $384,800 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: PTRY

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-3,300 1997 Profits: $-1,000 1996 Profits: $-8,100 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 6,154

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $475,000 Second Exec. Salary: $180,000

Bonus: $250,000 Bonus: $90,000

Largest operator of traditional convenience stores in North and South Carolina.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

426

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

PAPER WAREHOUSE Industry Group Code: 44229 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 7

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Paper Warehouse/Party Universe

8,500

Profits: 5

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

In-line

97 company owned/46 franchised

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Party Supplies/Paper Goods, Retail

Paper Warehouse, Inc. is a growing chain of specialty stores featuring a wide variety of party supplies and paper goods. Its stores, operating under the names Paper Warehouse and Party Universe, offer a comprehensive assortment of over 19,000 paper products, including special occasion, everyday and seasonal party supplies, gift wrap, greeting cards and catering supplies. Paper Warehouse’s 97 company-owned and 46 franchised stores pride themselves on featuring low priced, highquality merchandise. The stores, located in major retail trade areas for easy access, offer discounts up to 50 percent off to the customer. Inside, the stores feature open spaces and are organized categorically by party theme. Recently, Paper Warehouse, Inc. has expanded its management and staff, as well as revitalized its inventory management information system to promote efficiency and success. Currently, the company is planning to open approximately 15 new franchise stores and 25 new company-owned stores across the country, including locations in Omaha, Nebraska and Seattle, Washington. Paper Warehouse focuses on customer demand for quality merchandise and low prices, as well as convenience and selection.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Paper Warehouse, Inc. Party Warehouse

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Yale T. Dolginow, CEO Yale T. Dolginow, Pres. Cheryl W. Newell, VP/CFO Francis E. O'Neil, Dir.-Franchise Sales Kristen Lenn, Dir.-Human Resources Steven P. Durst, VP-Info. Systems Michael A. Anderson, Controller Michael A. Anderson, Treas. Carol A. Carroll, VP-Stores Willard V. Lewis, VP-Store Dev.

Phone: 612-936-1000 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 7630 Excelsior Boulevard, Minneapolis, MN, 554264504 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $63,491 1998 Sales: $52,949 1997 Sales: $43,002 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: PWHS

1999 Profits: $- 521 1998 Profits: $- 191 1997 Profits: $1,303 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

320

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $285,000 Second Exec. Salary: $145,000

Bonus: $27,335 Bonus: $1,450

Bargain party supplies and paper goods.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 4 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

427

PARTY CITY CORPORATION Industry Group Code: 44229 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 6

Profits: 4

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Party City Discount Super Store

11,000

$1,740,000 per store/$158 per sq. ft.

Free-standing/In-line

124 company-owned/157 franchised

TYPES OF BUSINESS: Party Supplies, Retail

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES:

Party City Corporation operates retail party goods stores within the continental United States and sells franchises on an individual store and area franchise basis throughout the United States, Puerto Rico, Spain, Portugal and Canada. Party City is one of the largest party supply superstore chains in the world. The company plans to continue expansion of both the company-owned store base and franchise locations. Party City has researched its clientele and found that its typical customer is a female between the ages of 26 and 55 who visits its stores an average of five times per year. The company offers 50% discounts from manufacturers’ suggested retail prices on certain products. Its products are generally priced from $1 to $100. Party City recently acquired 22 franchise stores.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Steven Mandell, Pres./CEO Gordon Keil, COO David Lauber, VP/CFO/Chief Acc. Officer Richard Yockelson, VP-Human Resources Jules Cohn, VP-MIS Valerie Szymaniak, VP-Real Estate

Phone: 973-983-0888 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 400 Commons Way, Rockaway, NJ, 07866 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $141,714 1997 Sales: $48,591 1996 Sales: $23,120 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: PCTY

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $7,670 1997 Profits: $3,756 1996 Profits: $1,300 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

921

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $263,429 Second Exec. Salary: $203,434

Bonus: $59,780 Bonus: $100,000

Bargain-priced party supplies for a variety of occasions.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Peters Communications, Montvale, NJ

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

428

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

PAUL HARRIS STORES INC Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 32

Profits: 24

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Paul Harris J. Peterman

4,000 4,000

$844,000 per store/$211 per sq. ft. $844,000 per store/$211 per sq. ft.

Mall/Strip center Mall

292 12

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel-Women's, Retail

Since 1952, Paul Harris Stores, Inc. has been providing its customer with the Paul Harris private label brand of distinctive, color-coordinated women’s clothing. Paul Harris specializes in casual clothing, accent pieces and accessories ranging from necklaces to embroidered vests. The company’s target customer is a woman of 25 to 45 years of age, and the company strives to sell her complete outfits. Paul Harris currently operates 275 stores, most of which are located in strip centers and malls. The company plans to implement a more accurate managerial base plan for individual store inventories, and plans to expand business by opening additional locations. The marketing department is also busy developing an increased brand identity in order to achieve higher sales. The Paul Harris Fashion Card holder is the company’s most valuable customer, spending on average twice as much per sale. Paul Harris prides itself on relying primarily on word-ofmouth advertising. However, it plans to expand upon this tactic in order to gain a broader and larger customer base in the future.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Paul Harris The $5-$10-$15-$20 Place Paul Harris Design PH Sport Paul Harris Fashion Card

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Charlotte G. Fisher, CEO Charlotte G. Fisher, Pres. Thomas McCain, Sr. VP-Finance/CFO Sally Tassani, Exec. VP-Mktg. Gregory S. Purdue, VP-Info. Services Anthony J. Marianetti, VP-Planning and Dist. John H. Boyers, Treas. Thomas Alston, Jr., VP-Stores

Phone: 317-293-3900 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 6003 Guion Road, Indianapolis, IN, 46254-1299 Internet Address: www.paulharrisstores.com Notes/Other Info: 800-PRO-INFO, ext PAUH for interative news

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $241,693 1998 Sales: $209,236 1997 Sales: $190,288 1996 Sales: $167,523 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: PAUH

1999 Profits: $8,586 1998 Profits: $9,728 1997 Profits: $8,819 1996 Profits: $1,629 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 3,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $700,000 Second Exec. Salary: $175,000

Bonus: $200,000 Bonus: $135,000

Better locations, focus on efficient management and excellent, value-oriented fashion design are creating booming sales and profits.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 5 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

429

PAWNMART INC Industry Group Code: 4400 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 18

Profits: 19

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

PawnMart

1,500-13,000

$110,181 per store plus loans

Free-standing

33

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Pawn Shops, Retail Providing secured short-term loans

PawnMart, Inc. is striving to become the premier specialty retailer in selling and buying pre-owned merchandise, and in providing its customer with secured short-term loans. PawnMart’s 33 locations spread throughout the south, with 11 in Georgia, five in Alabama, two in North Carolina and one in Texas. Pawn mart holds a number of principles concerning customer service and satisfaction of employee, shareholder and community needs. The company upholds a standard of buying and selling only quality merchandise and providing fast, outstanding service. Additionally, it promises its employees an ethical and moral workplace filled with mutual respect and open lines of good communication. Currently, PawnMart plans to open several new stores in selected markets and expand in metropolitan areas in states possessing favorable pawn regulations. The company also plans to expand in secondary markets by franchising, and to further achieve efficiency in store operations through the use of its recently designed software system, PAWNLINK. PawnMart is also currently improving its marketing strategy to ensure that its stores are as attractive, clean and well lit as possible.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: PawnMart, Inc. PAWNLINK

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Carson R. Thompson, CEO Robert D. Bourland, Jr., Pres./COO Thomas W. White, VP-Finance/Chief Acc. Officer Randall L. Haden, VP-Info. Services

Phone: 817-335-7296 Fax: 817-335-6430 Toll-Free: Address: 301 Commerce Street, Suite 3600, Fort Worth, TX, 76102 Internet Address: www.pawnmart.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $10,178 1997 Sales: $7,904 1996 Sales: $4,424 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: PMRT

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-5,436 1997 Profits: $-3,056 1996 Profits: $-2,828 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

181

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $90,000 Second Exec. Salary: $80,769

Bonus: $5,400 Bonus: $6,000

Focus on the southern U.S.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

430

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

PAYLESS CASHWAYS INC Industry Group Code: 44413 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 4

Profits: 12

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Payless Cashways

187,000

$11,700,000 per store/$63 per sq. ft. (all stores)

Free-standing

154 (all stores)

Furrow Lumberjack Hugh M. Woods Contractor Supply Lumber

187,000 187,000 187,000 187,000 187,000

Free-standing Free-standing Free-standing Free-standing Free-standing

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Building Materials/Hardware Stores, Retail Home improvement merchandise

Payless Cashways, Inc. operates under the names Payless Cashways Building Materials, Furrow Building Materials, Lumberjack Building Materials, Hugh M. Woods Building Materials, Knox Lumber and Contractor Supply, and is the fifth largest building materials and home improvement products retailer in the United States. The company operates 154 stores in 20 states in the Midwest, Southwest, Pacific Coast and Rocky Mountain areas, and offers over 31,000 items per store. Payless Cashways merchandise assortment includes lumber and building materials, tools, millwork, hardware, electrical and plumbing products, paint, lighting, home décor, kitchens, decorative plumbing, heating, ventilating and cooling systems and seasonal supplies. The company’s primary customers are do-it-yourself persons accomplishing a project and professionals, and the company’s sales team is highly educated and equipped to assist the do-ityourself person’s needs, whatever they may be. Payless Cashways is currently focusing on improving its financial condition. After recently struggling against a heavy load of debt, the company filed for protection under Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code. On December 2, 1997, the Company’s Plan of Reorganization was consummated. The impact of the Chapter 11 reorganization had not yet dissipated as of early fiscal 1998, but progress made by mid-fiscal 1999 promises success. The company announced the stoppage of pension plan issuance to new employees in June of 1999, which will result in $5 million in annual savings. A 401K plan will still, however, be offered.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Payless Cashways Furrow Lumberjack Hugh M. Woods Knox Contractor Supply

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Millard E. Barron, CEO Millard E. Barron, Pres. Richard G. Luse, Sr. VP-Fin./CFO Renae G. Gonner, VP-Mktg. and Advertising Louise R. Iennaccaro, VP-Human Resources James L. Deats, VP-Info. Systems Shawn J. Hepinstall, VP-Merch. Stanley K. Boyd, Sr. VP-Store Oper. Robert S. Islinger, Sr. VP-Strategic Planning Timothy R. Mertz, Treas. Ronald Long, VP-Merch. Display, and Productivity

Phone: 816-234-6000 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: P.O. Box 419466, Kansas City, MO, 64141-0466 Internet Address: http://payless.cashways.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $1,909,860 1997 Sales: $2,290,215 1996 Sales: $2,650,905 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: PCSH

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-22,367 1997 Profits: $-288,592 1996 Profits: $-19,078 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 11,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $562,500 Second Exec. Salary: $275,480

Bonus: $83,819 Bonus: $37,500

Fourth largest retailer in the industry.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

431

PAYLESS SHOESOURCE INC Industry Group Code: 4482 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Payless ShoeSource Parade of Shoes Payless Kids

3,400 2,300 4,400

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

In-line/Free-standing/Mall In-line/Free-standing/Mall Mall/In-line

4,350 213 7

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Shoes/Accessories, Retail

Founded in 1956, Payless ShoeSource, Inc. is dedicated to selling quality, value-priced footwear and accessories, and is North America’s largest family footwear retailer. In 1997, Payless ShoeSource sold over 210 million pairs of shoes to over 150 million customers, totaling sales at over $2.6 billion. A subsidiary of the company, Parade of Shoes, comprises 213 of the company’s stores, while Payless ShoeSource, the company’s main division, operates 4,350 stores along with Payless Kids’ stores. The company’s stores are located throughout all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, Saipan, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Canada. Stores offer a broad assortment of basic, seasonal and fashion shoes in dress, casual, athletic, work boot and specialty categories. In fiscal 1997, Payless ShoeSource achieved solid improvements in sales, net earnings, earnings per share and return on equity. Currently, they strive to further increase the sales, profits and return on net assets of Payless ShoeSource. The company additionally plans to accelerate store growth by opening 120 new Payless ShoeSource stores in the United States and Canada. Over time, the company plans to successfully operate at least 200 stores in the Canadian market. The company also remains committed to a 15 percent annual increase in earnings per share. Payless ShoeSource believes that this current plan of action will help the company achieve its goal of being the most successful footwear retailer in the world.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Payless ShoeSource Parade of Shoes

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Steven J. Douglass, CEO Ullrich E. Porzig, Sr. VP/CFO Stephen Farley, Sr. VP-Mktg. Jed L. Norden, Sr. VP-Human Resources Gerald F. Kelly, Sr. VP- Logistics/ Info. Services JoAnn Ogee, Sr. VP/General Merch. Mgr.-Women's Duane L. Cantrell, Exec. VP-Retail Oper. Gary M. Stone, Sr. VP-Store Dev. Ullrich E. Porzig, Treas.

Phone: 785-233-5171 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 3231 S.E. Sixth Street, Topeka, KS, 66607-2207 Internet Address: www.paylessshoesource.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $2,615,500 1998 Sales: $2,566,900 1997 Sales: $2,333,700 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: PSS

1999 Profits: $135,000 1998 Profits: $128,900 1997 Profits: $107,700 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 15,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $656,250 Second Exec. Salary: $487,500

Bonus: $173,003 Bonus: $106,800

A shoe industry leader with a massive network of stores/Immense buying and advertising power.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

432

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

PC CONNECTION INC Industry Group Code: 45411 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 9

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 8

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Direct marketing only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Computer and Software Products, Catalog Sales Software, peripherals, networking products and accessories

Founded in 1982, PC Connection, Inc. is a leading direct marketer of brand-name personal computers and related software, peripherals, accessories and networking products. Offering over 25,000 products from manufacturers including IBM, Compaq, Toshiba, Hewlett Packard, Microsoft and Apple, the company sells primarily through its catalogs, PC Connection and MacConnection, its online store. Since its inception, the company has strived to offer extraordinary customer service, a broad range of products at competitive prices, and to be known as one of the most trusted sources for computer information in the business. Recently, the company has received much recognition. PC Magazine named it one of the 100 Most Influential Companies, making it the highest ranked of only two computer resellers on the list in 1997 and 1998. The same magazine also hailed PC Connections with the PC World Class Award seven times, while Computer Retail Week awarded it the Top 100 Retailer Award. Berkeley Mac Users Group calls PC Connections the Best Mail-Order Company, while InfoWorld Magazine named it the #1 Computer Supplier. The company plans to be a trendsetter in the industry, and is currently offering toll-free technical support, practicing an Everything Overnight policy of delivery and featuring one-minute mail order using caller ID.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: PC Connection MacConnection

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Patricia Gallup, CEO Wayne Wilson, Pres./COO Mark Gavin, VP- Finance/CFO Tracey T. Turner, VP-Corporate Comm.

Phone: 603-423-2000 Fax: 603-423-5733 Toll-Free: Address: Route 101A, 730 Milford Road, Merrimack, NH, 030544631 Internet Address: www.pcconnections.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $732,370 1997 Sales: $550,575 1996 Sales: $333,322 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: PCCC

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $18,644 1997 Profits: $5,204 1996 Profits: $4,756 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,046

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $ Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Named the #1 computer supplier by InfoWorld Magazine.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

433

PEAPOD INC Industry Group Code: 4541 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 6

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 9

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

On-line only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Interactive on-line groceries delivery company

Peapod is a leading interactive online grocery shopping and delivery company and a provider of targeted media and research services. The company provides an integrated, comprehensive service designed to address the distinct needs of online consumers, grocery retailers and consumer goods companies. Peapod’s Smart Shopping for Busy People solution provides consumers with time savings and convenience through a userfriendly, highly functional virtual supermarket and personalized shopping, delivery and customer services. By establishing a relationship with the company, grocery retailers gain access to Peapod’s online sales channel. This channel is designed to enable the retailer to gain incremental revenues and profits by capturing an increased share of the purchases of existing customers and by attracting new customers. Peapod provides consumer goods companies with a forum for targeted interactive advertising, high-impact electronic couponing and extensive product research by linking together members from multiple markets into a national online network and collecting substantial data regarding members’ purchase intentions, purchasing behavior and demographics. The company’s consumer software is based upon a three-tiered architecture, which positions Peapod at the forefront of Internet computing. In 1999, the company created its Split Pea Software subsidiary, an extension of projects undertaken with Australian retail giant Coles Myer.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Belo Holdings Tribune Coles Myer Split Pea Software

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Andrew B. Parkinson, Pres./CEO John C. Walden, COO John P. Miller, Sr. VP/CFO/Chief Admin. Officer Anthony Priore, VP-MKTG. Toya Campbell, Human Resources Thomas L. Parkinson, Exec. VP/Chief Tech. Officer William J. Christopher, Dir-Member Services George F. Douaire, SVP-Peapod Interactive

Phone: 847-583-9400 Fax: 847-583-9494 Toll-Free: Address: 9933 Woods Drive, Skokie, IL, 60077-1057 Internet Address: www.peapod.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $69,265 1997 Sales: $56,943 1996 Sales: $27,462 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: PPOD

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-21,565 1997 Profits: $-12,979 1996 Profits: $-9,566 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,420

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $147,115 Second Exec. Salary: $120,000

Bonus: $130,725 Bonus: $26,700

Very rapid growth.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

434

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

PENN TRAFFIC COMPANY (THE) Industry Group Code: 4451 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 14

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Big Bear Big Bear Plus Bi-Lo Foods P&C Foods Quality Markets

4,300-75,000 75,000-140,000 4,300-75,000 4,300-75,000 4,300-75,000

Profits: 14

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Free-standing/In-line/Strip ctrs. Free standing/In-line/Strip ctrs. Free standing/In-line/Strip ctrs. Free standing/In-line/Strip ctrs.

74 incl. in above number 43 63 36

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Grocery Stores/Supermarkets, Retail Wholesale food distribution

The Penn Traffic Company operates 263 supermarkets in upstate New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio and northern West Virginia under the Big Bear, Big Bear Plus, Bi-Lo Foods, P&C Foods and Quality Markets trade names, making it one of the leading food retailers in the eastern United States. In addition, Penn Traffic also operates wholesale food distribution businesses servicing 106 licensed franchises and 90 independent operators. In fiscal 1998, the company comprehensively restructured itself, resulting in dramatic positive change. Penn Traffic created a new organizational structure and management team, communicated with its employees about the growth of the company, reduced the cost structure and launched a sales rebuilding effort. Other dramatic changes included cutting operating costs by $50 million and saving $12 million through managerial reorganization. Nonetheless, significant levels of long term debt combined with poor operating profits forced the firm to file Chapter 11 bankruptcy in March 1999. Penn Traffic, looking ahead, has several expectations for the current fiscal year and for the future in general. The company expects the maturation of its new sales-building program to lead to further improved sales, asserts that its cost structure will be significantly lower than it has been in prior years, and plans to better itself through increased operational efficiency.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Quality Markets Big Bear Big Bear Plus Bi-Lo Foods P&C Foods Quality Markets

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Phillip E. Hawkins, CEO Phillip E. Hawkins, Pres. Robert J. Davis, Sr. VP/CFO Nick Campbell, Sr. VP-Mktg. Bernadette M. Randall-Barber, VP- Human Resources H. Phillip Williams, VP-Construction and Engineering Bradley A. Melvin, Sr. VP-Oper. Randy P. Martin, VP-Strategic Planning Brian Kaler, VP-Oper. Support

Phone: 315-453-7284 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 1200 State Fair Boulevard, PO Box 4737, Syracuse, NY, 13221-4737 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $2,828,100 1998 Sales: $3,010,000 1997 Sales: $3,296,000 1996 Sales: $3,536,600 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: PNFT

1999 Profits: $-317,100 1998 Profits: $53,000 1997 Profits: $80,500 1996 Profits: $29,500 1995 Profits: $155,700

Employees: 17,300

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $382,448 Second Exec. Salary: $177,659

Bonus: $225,000 Bonus: $10,000

New sales-building program.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 5 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Upstate Advertising, Syracuse, NY

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

435

PEP BOYS-MANNY MOE & JACK (THE) Industry Group Code: 4413 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Pep Boys SUPERCENTERS Pep Boys Express Pep Boys - Service & Tire Center

20,700 9,600 20,700

Profits: 3

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores: 625 12 1

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Auto Parts, Retail

The Pep Boys - Manny, Moe & Jack principally engages in the retail sale of automotive parts and accessories, automotive maintenance and service, and the installation of parts. The company operates over 700 stores in 37 states and Puerto Rico. Each of the company’s 628 superstores carries approximately 28,000 items and is equipped with 12 service bays which allow the company to perform a range of professional automobile services. These services include air conditioning, fuel injection, brake and emissions services as well as engine and electrical diagnostic services and tire, battery and accessory installation. To focus its attention on its proven Supercenter format, Pep Boys sold or closed all but 12 out of 119 Pep Boys Express parts stores. In addition to its service and tire sales, the supercenter format will also be featuring a new commercial delivery program to service commercial accounts. The company recently announced that, as a part its commercial delivery program, it has been named an approved automotive parts supplier to the over 1,500 Bridgestone/Firestone retail outlets. This is a very rapidly growing company, and a great place to become a management trainee if you like the car mechanic business.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Pep Boys Pep Boys Express

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Mitchell G. Leibovitz, Pres./CEO Wendell H. Prove, Exec. VP/COO Michael J. Holden, Exec. VP/CFO J. Michael Riggan, Sr. VP-Mktg. Ronald J. McEvoy, Sr. VP/CIO J. Michael Riggan, Sr. VP-Merch. Mark L. Page, Sr. VP-Store Oper. Frederick A. Stampone, Sr. VP/Chief Admin. Officer

Phone: 215-229-9000 Fax: 215-229-5076 Toll-Free: 800-737-0135 Address: 3111 W. Allegheny Avenue, Philadelphia, PA, 19132 Internet Address: www.pepboys.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $2,398,708 1998 Sales: $2,056,520 1997 Sales: $1,828,593 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: PBY

1999 Profits: $4,974 1998 Profits: $49,611 1997 Profits: $100,824 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 19,754

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $812,020 Second Exec. Salary: $346,539

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Operates over 600 stores in 33 states and Puerto Rico/Has been in business for over 75 years.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: DDB Needham Chicago, Chicago, IL

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

436

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

PERFUMANIA INC Industry Group Code: 44612 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Profits: 3

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Perfumania Perfumania Plus Nature's Elements Class Perfumes

1,500 4,000-5,000 1,500 1,500

$466,401 per store/$311 per sq. ft. $466,401 per store $466,401 per store/$311 per sq. ft. $466,401 per store/$311 per sq. ft.

Mall/In-line Free-standing Mall Mall

285 10 18 3

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Cosmetics/Beauty Supplies, Retail

Perfumania, Inc. is a leading wholesale distributor and specialty retailer of a wide range of designer and name brand fragrances, which are sold at discounted prices up to 60% below the manufacturer’s suggested retail price. Perfumania currently operates 316 stores in 36 states, including 48 in Florida, 34 in New York, 23 in California and 21 in Texas. Additionally, Perfumania operates stores in District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. The company’s wholesale division serves approximately 44 national and regional retail chains throughout North America and overseas, making it one of the largest wholesale distributors of fragrances in the United States. Perfumania, Inc. experienced a difficult year in fiscal 1997, with a net loss and net loss per share of $11.4 million and $1.63 million, respectively. However, the company is currently in the process of implementing new strategic financial plans. Perfumania’s primary goal is to promote the sale of high turnover fragrance brands and generally improve merchandise to boost sales. The company also plans to open only a select few stores in the near future, as they recently opened over 40. Perfumania also intends to close stores that do not meet financial return expectations, and remodel older, more profitable stores. The company is also in the process of enhancing and updating computer information systems, and is implementing better employee incentive programs.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Perfumania, Inc. Magnifique Parfumes & Cosmetics

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Ilia Lekach, CEO Simon Falic, COO Simon Falic, CFO Claire Fair, VP- Human Resources Simon Falic, Treas. Marc Finer, Pres.-Retail Divi.

Phone: 305-889-1600 Fax: 305-888-9380 Toll-Free: 800-337-2472 Address: 11701 N.W. 101 Road, Miami, FL, 33178 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $175,256 1998 Sales: $163,594 1997 Sales: $138,920 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: PRFM

1999 Profits: $-18,974 1998 Profits: $-11,433 1997 Profits: $2,075 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,834

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $304,813 Second Exec. Salary: $246,700

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Sells fragrances at discounted prices of up to 60% below suggested retail prices.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

437

PETCO ANIMAL SUPPLIES INC Industry Group Code: 45391 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Profits: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Petco

15,000

$1,811,000 per store/$157 per sq. ft.

In-line

476

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Pets/Pet Supplies, Retail

Petco Animal Supplies, Inc. is a specialty retailer of premium pet food and supplies. The company operates over 476 premium pet food and supply stores in 36 states and the District of Columbia. Stores carry more than 10,000 items, including premium foods, vitamins, toys and other supplies for dogs, cats, birds, fish, rabbits and other domestic animals. Most store locations also carry live fish, birds, reptiles and small animals and provide grooming, adoption and other services. Petco chooses not to carry larger domestic animals such as cats and dogs due to concerns about inhumane breeding practices and species overpopulation; the company does, however, sponsor independent pet adoption programs, which are administered through local animal welfare programs. Petco currently utilizes both superstore and traditional store formats. The company plans to open only superstores in the future and hopes to eventually convert all traditional stores to the highly successful superstore format. Petco offers several community services programs designed to offer monthly low-cost vaccination services designed for customers who do not utilize a veterinarian. Customers are also encouraged to bring their pets to the store when shopping. The company’s strategy is to become the leading chain of pet food and supply superstores by offering its customers a complete assortment of pet-related products, with a focus on customer service.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES:

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Brian K. Devine, CEO William W. Woodard, Exec. VP-Oper. Richard C. St. Peter, CFO/Exec. VP-Admin. Jan Mitchell, VP-Human Resources & Admin. Larry D. Asselin, Sr. VP-Merch. and Dist. Bruce C. Hall, Exec. VP-Oper. James Meyers, VP-Finance Brian K. Devine, Pres.

Phone: 619-453-7845 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 9125 Rehco Road, San Diego, CA, 92121 Internet Address: www.petco.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $839,622 1998 Sales: $749,789 1997 Sales: $600,637 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: PETC

1999 Profits: $-2,377 1998 Profits: $-13,181 1997 Profits: $-12,156 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 4,500

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $450,000 Second Exec. Salary: $254,000

Bonus: $458,000 Bonus: $221,616

Offers customers a complete assortment of pet-related products at very competitive prices.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: ICG Yellow Pages, Garden Grove, CA; Global Media, San Diego, CA; Carat ICG, Los Angeles, CA

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

438

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

PETROLEUM HEAT & POWER CO Industry Group Code: 44719 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 4

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 7

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Petroleum Heat

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Oil (Home Heating), Retail Installs and repairs heating equipment

Petroleum Heat and Power Company, Inc., a subsidiary of Star Gas Partners, is the largest retail distributor of home heating oil in the United States. The company serves the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic states, including the metropolitan areas of Boston, New York City, Baltimore, Providence, and Washington, D.C. In addition to selling home heating oil, the company installs and repairs heating equipment. The company also markets other petroleum products, including diesel fuel and gasoline, to commercial consumers. Recently, the company acquired a small interest in Star Gas Corporation. Star Gas Partners is the eighth largest retail propane distributor in the United States, providing a major presence in the propane distribution industry, serving customers in 14 states in the Midwest and Northeast. In addition, the company consolidated its three full-function New York City branches into one Long Island call center and one operating depot in Maspeth, Queens. These operations now form the New York Metro region. The regionalization of the Mid-Atlantic operations with the building of a regional management team and the unification of marketing efforts under the brand name of Petro was also accomplished.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Star Gas Corporation Silgas, Inc. A.P. Woodson Co., Inc. Ocennet Fuel Oil Corp. Marex Corporation Public Fuel Services Co., Inc. Petro, Inc. Maxwhale Corp.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Irik P. Sevin, CEO William G. Powers, Jr., Pres./COO John D. Ryan, VP-Sales and Mktg. Peter B. Terenzio, Jr., VP-Human Resources and Risk Mgmt. C. Justin McCarty, Sr. VP-Oper. George Leibowitz, Treas. Vincent De Palma, VP/General Mgr.-New York Region

Phone: 203-325-5400 Fax: Toll-Free: 1-800-645-4328 Address: P.O. Box 1457, Stamford, CT, 06904-1457 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $548,141 1997 Sales: $608,161 1996 Sales: $609,507 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker:

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-22,899 1997 Profits: $-28,315 1996 Profits: $-23,479 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 2,211

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $387,500 Second Exec. Salary: $309,961

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Largest retail distributor of home-heating oil in the United States.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

439

PETSMART INC Industry Group Code: 45391 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Profits: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

PETsMART PETsMART Direct State Line Tack

26,000-40,000 Mail-order only

$3,611,448

In-line

532 2

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Pets/Pet Supplies, Retail Pet supplies Pet services Mail order-various pet accessories Veterinary clinics

PETsMART is a leading worldwide operator of superstores specializing in pet food, pet supplies and pet services. The company operates 402 superstores in 36 states in the United States, 16 stores in Canada and 89 stores in the United Kingdom and anticipates operating approximately 548 stores worldwide by the end of next year. The average domestic superstore stocks more than 12,000 items and offers a complete assortment of products and services available for household pets. Through its subsidiaries, the company is a leading worldwide direct marketer of pet-related and equine products. PETsMART Direct (formerly Sporting Dog Specialties) and its affiliates sell pet supplies and products for small and large animals to individuals and small businesses through five catalogs, while State Line Tack is a worldwide catalog retailer specializing in discount brand name tack, riding apparel and equine supplies. The company recently added 92 stores, ending the year with 534 stores. PETsMART encourages associates to be active volunteers in humane organizations in the local community. The company's PETsMART Charities, Inc. made grants of $180,000 to assist with program funding for local humane organizations. The company's Luv-A-Pet in-store adoption centers, in alliance with humane organizaitons, placed more than 52,000 dogs and cats in new homes last year.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Sporting Dog Petstuff, Inc. The Pet Food Giant, Inc. Santa Claws State Line Tack, Inc. Sophista-Cat

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Samuel J. Parker, CEO Donna R. Ecton, COO Neil T. Watanabe, CFO Ronald H. Butler, Exec. VP-Mktg. J. Patrick Johnston J. Patrick Johnston, Sr. VP-Human Resources H. Jake Mendelsohn, Sr. VP/CIO C. Giles Clarke, Exec. VP-Europe Samuel J. Parker, Pres.

Phone: 602-580-6100 Fax: 602-395-6502 Toll-Free: Address: 19601 North 27th Avenue, Phoenix, AZ, 85027 Internet Address: www.petsmart.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $2,109,322 1998 Sales: $1,790,599 1997 Sales: $1,501,017 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: PETM

1999 Profits: $23,269 1998 Profits: $-34,430 1997 Profits: $20,591 1996 Profits: $-5,436 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 21,600

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $400,000 Second Exec. Salary: $297,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $118,800

Leading operator of pet supplies superstores/Continues to grow through acquisitions.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: EvansGroup, San Francisco, CA

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

440

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

PHAR-MOR, INC. Industry Group Code: 44611 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 5

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Phar-Mor Phar-Mor Warehouse Direct

40,000 10,000-15,000

Profits: 10

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

In-line /Free-standing In-line/Free-standing

83 23

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Drug Stores, Retail Liquor sales Fresh and frozen food

Phar-Mor, Inc. sells prescription and over-the-counter drugs, health and beauty care products, pet supplies, cosmetics, greeting cards, groceries, beer, wine, tobacco, soft drinks, video rental and other seasonal and general merchandise through its chain of 106 discount retail drug stores. The company’s operations span throughout 22 metropolitan markets in 19 states, including Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Virginia and North and South Carolina. Company employees experience training on every level of employment, including computer-based, on and off-site, video and teleconference training. Currently, the company is relocating and remodeling several stores in an attempt to make the Phar-Mor shopping experience more convenient and enjoyable for the shopper. Stores feature a familiar supermarket-like design, and encourage impulse buying through product location in traffic patterns. During fiscal 1998, Phar-Mor experienced a 2.4% sales growth figure totaling $1,100.9 billion. The company’s net increase for that same fiscal year reached $8.8 million. Phar-Mor entered Chapter 11 Bankruptcy in 1992 after discovering an executive embezzlement scheme, but subsequently closed over 200 stores and emerged .

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Phar-Mor ShopKo Pharmhouse

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Abbey J. Butler, Co-CEO M. David Schwartz, Pres./COO Sankar Krishnan, Sr.VP/CFO Warren E. Jeffrey, Sr. VP-Store and Pharmacy Oper. Melvyn J. Estrin, Co-CEO John R. Ficarro, Sr. VP/Chief Acc. Officer

Phone: 330-746-6641 Fax: 330-740-8018 Toll-Free: Address: 20 Federal Plaza West, Youngstown, OH, 44501-0400 Internet Address: www.pharmor.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $1,100,851 1997 Sales: $1,074,828 1996 Sales: $1,056,252 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: PMOR

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-8,830 1997 Profits: $-2,281 1996 Profits: $-167,210 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 5,479

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $638,402 Second Exec. Salary: $315,484

Bonus: $412,800 Bonus: $203,900

Will merge with Shopko Stores, Inc. into a new holding company to be called Cabot Noble.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Yaffe & Company, Southfield, MI

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

441

PHARMHOUSE CORP Industry Group Code: 44611 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 9

Profits: 8

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Pharmhouse The Rx Place

35,000 25,000

$6,273,469 $6,273,469

In-line/Free-standing In-line/Free-standing

13 19

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Drug Stores, Retail Video rentals

Pharmhouse Corp. operates a chain of 32 discount drug stores, 13 of which are operated under the name Pharmhouse and 19 of which are operated under the name The Rx Place. The company’s stores are located primarily in the mid-Atlantic and New England states and emphasize a discount store pricing policy. In addition to filling prescriptions, the stores also rent videos and offer health and beauty supplies, stationery and greeting cards, pet supplies, food, beverages and seasonal merchandise. The company has been having difficulties from a lack of sufficient trade credit and from continuing losses from operations. Pharmhouse recently merged with and is now a wholly-owned subsidiary of Phar-Mor.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Pharmhouse The Rx Place Phar-Mor

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Kenneth A. Davis, CEO Kenneth A. Davis, COO/Pres. Richard A. Davis, Sr. VP-Finance/CFO Joseph Keller, Sr. VP-Admin. and Oper. Marcie B. Davis, Exec. VP/Treas.

Phone: 212-477-9400 Fax: 212-477-2900 Toll-Free: Address: 860 Broadway, New York, NY, 10003 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $200,751 1997 Sales: $231,729 1996 Sales: $209,529 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: acquired

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-3,691 1997 Profits: $1,334 1996 Profits: $-2,507 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,686

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $311,539 Second Exec. Salary: $175,000

Bonus: $118,000 Bonus: $25,000

Everyday deep discount prices.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Marcy Advertising, New York, NY

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

442

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

PIER 1 IMPORTS INC Industry Group Code: 421 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Profits: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Pier 1 Imports The Pier

7,500 7,500

$1,516,112 $1,516,112

Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line

733 18

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Furniture Stores-Retail Kitchen goods Dining goods and accessories

Pier 1 Imports, Inc. operates a chain of retail stores which sell a wide variety of furniture, decorative home furnishings, dining and kitchen goods, accessories and other specialty items for the home. Pier 1 recently discontinued its line of clothing and fashion accessories. The company operates under three names: Pier 1 Imports, The Market of Pier 1, and in the U.K., The Pier. The company also supplies merchandise and licenses the Pier 1 Imports name to Sears Mexico and Sears Puerto Rico. The company opened 54 new stores in North America during the fiscal year of 1998. Over the last five years, Pier 1 Imports has opened 247 new outlets, the majority in single-store markets, a strategy that has supported the company's strong sales growth. The company also remodeled 51 stores and remerchandised an additional 144 outlets. The company successfully implemented a national Bridal and Gift Registry program. Pier 1 Imports Preferred Card is used by nearly three million Americans.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Pier 1 Imports The Market of Pier 1 The Pier Pier 1 Imports Preferred Card

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Clark A. Johnson, CEO Marvin J. Girouard, Pres./COO Stephen F. Magnum, Sr. VP/CFO Phil E. Schneider, Sr. VP-Mktg. E. Mitchell Weatherly, Sr. VP-Human Resources Jay R. Jacobs, Sr. VP-Merch. Stephen F. Magnum, Treas. Charles H. Turner, Sr. VP-Stores

Phone: 817-252-8000 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 301 Commerce Street, Suite 600, Fort Worth, TX, 76102 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $1,138,590 1998 Sales: $1,075,405 1997 Sales: $947,091 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: PIR

1999 Profits: $80,357 1998 Profits: $78,047 1997 Profits: $44,087 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 5,400

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $700,000 Second Exec. Salary: $600,000

Bonus: $787,500 Bonus: $675,000

Retailer of unique items imported from 44 countries around the world.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Advanswers, Saint Louis, MO

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

443

PIERCING PAGODA INC Industry Group Code: 44831 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 6

Profits: 6

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Piercing Pagoda Plumb Gold Silver & Gold Connection

170 (Kiosk) 170 (Kiosk) 170 (Kiosk)

$295,000 $295,000 $295,000

Kiosks-mall/In-line Kiosks-mall/In-line Kiosks-mall/In-line

762 Kiosk/27 In-line incl. in above number

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Jewelry, Retail Piercing

Piercing Pagoda, Inc. is a specialty retailer of jewelry through kiosk stores operating under the names Piercing Pagoda, Plumb Gold and Silver and Gold Connection. The company currently operates over 789 stores in 47 states and in Puerto Rico. Piercing Pagoda, Inc. offers an extensive selection of popular-priced 14 karat and 10 karat gold chains, bracelets, earrings, charms and rings, as well as a selection of silver jewelry, all in basic styles. The company’s stores are generally located in high traffic concourses of regional shopping malls and are primarily kiosks averaging 170 square feet in size, typically carrying approximately 3,800 different items. Piercing pagoda is planning to expand with another 90 stores by the end of 1999 and another 80 during the following year.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Piercing Pagoda Plumb Gold Silver and Gold Connection

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Richard H. Penske, CEO John F. Eureyecko, Pres./COO Richard J. McKeon, Dir.-MIS Barry R. Clauser, Sr. VP-Merch. Oper. Sharon J. Zondag, Sr. VP-Store Oper.

Phone: 610-691-0437 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 3910 Adler Place, Bethlehem, PA, 18017 Internet Address: www.pagoda.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $222,128 1997 Sales: $166,885 1996 Sales: $121,581 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: PGDA

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $10,969 1997 Profits: $7,538 1996 Profits: $5,677 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,651

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $222,057 Second Exec. Salary: $199,235

Bonus: $105,000 Bonus: $100,000

Largest specialty retailer of jewelry through kiosk stores.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Evans & Fitzgerald/MARC, Coral Gables, FL

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

444

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

PLAY CO TOYS & ENTERTAINMENT CORP Industry Group Code: 45112C Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 3

Profits: 3

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Play Co. Toy Co.

1,220-13,125 1,220-13,125

$1,187,817 $1,187,817

In-line/Mall Mall

17 2

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Toys, Retail Hobby products

Founded in 1974, Play Co. Toys & Entertainment Corp., a retailer of educational as well as promotional, specialty and general toys, now operates 19 stores throughout California and Arizona. Included in these are two conceptual stores operating under the Toy Co. name which focus primarily on interactivity, educational, new electronic interactive, specialty and collectible toys. In accordance with Play Co.’s current goals, the Toy Co. stores will operate exclusively in upscale, high-traffic malls that focus on entertaining the shopping customer as well as meeting the customer’s needs as a consumer. The company’s new stores have and are expected to continue producing higher gross profits, since the focus merchandise is generally more expensive. Recently, Play Co. opened three new stores in high-traffic malls, and one in a high-traffic strip center. Play Co.’s stores all feature several unique characteristics designed to act as learning and activity areas. Among these are a computer station, a library spot where children are encouraged to read and a children’s theater. Play Co., Inc. continues to be America’s fastest growing retail toy store.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Play Co. Toys & Entertainment Corp. Toy Co.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Richard E. Brady, CEO Richard E. Brady, Pres. James Frakes, CFO/Secy. John Hites, VP-Retail Oper.

Phone: 760-471-4505 Fax: 760-471-9624 Toll-Free: Address: 550 Rancheros Drive, San Marcos, CA, 92069 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $22,569 1997 Sales: $19,624 1996 Sales: $21,231 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: PLCO

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-2,054 1997 Profits: $-3,585 1996 Profits: $-3,543 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

68

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $120,000 Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Plans to fill a need in the marketplace by offering a combination of traditional toy items as well as educational toys, and entertainment items.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

445

PREMIER CONCEPTS INC Industry Group Code: 44831 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 11

Profits: 10

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Imposters Elegant Pretenders Impostors.com

310-1,200 310-1,200 Internet only

$347,929 $347,929

Mall/In-line Mall/In-line

36 incl. in above number

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Jewelry, Retail Direct mail Wholesale Internet sales

Operating under the names Imposters and Elegant Pretenders, Premier Concepts, inc. specializes in the marketing and retailing of high-end reproduction jewelry (faux jewelry) and 14-karat gold jewelry with cubic zirconia and other synthetic stones. Through a national chain of 36 operating retail stores and an online store, the company sells jewelry that emulates classic fine jewelry as well as pieces designed by famous jewelers such as Tiffany & Co., Cartier, Bulgari and Harry Winston. The product line also includes replicas of jewelry owned by Princess Diana, the Duchess of Windsor, Elizabeth Taylor and other celebrities. Faux jewelry is created with layered gold, cubic zirconia and Austrian crystal to simulate the look of fine jewelry. Also recently introduced is a new collection of genuine sterling silver jewelry featuring semiprecious and synthetic stones. The products are purchased from several domestic vendors and from vendors in China, England, Hong Kong, Italy, Korea, Spain, Taiwan and Thailand. The Imposters and Elegant Pretenders stores are designed to match the elegant look of the company’s products and to provide customers with the feeling of shopping in an upscale fine jewelry environment. The stores are located in shopping malls and tourist locations in southern California, northern California, Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Louisiana, Maryland, Missouri, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, Washington and in the Washington D.C. area. Leases for two new retail stores in California and Nevada have been executed and are scheduled to open in the company years..

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Imposters

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Sissel B. Greenberg, CEO Sissel B. Greenberg, Pres. Todd Huss, CFO

Phone: 303-338-1800 Fax: 303-338-5780 Toll-Free: Address: 3033 South Parker Rd., Ste. 120, Aurora, CO, 80014 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $12,706 1998 Sales: $12,579 1997 Sales: $9,774 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: FAUXC

1999 Profits: $-1,060 1998 Profits: $- 587 1997 Profits: $ 355 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

85

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $130,000 Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

One of the nation's largest specialty chains of faux jewelry.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

446

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

PRICESMART INC Industry Group Code: 45291 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 18

Profits: 14

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

PriceSmart PriceCostco Travel Program

40,000-65,000 40,000-65,000

$5,068,750 $5,068,750

In-line In-line

16 incl. in above number

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Warehouse Clubs & Superstores-Retail Auto referral program Travel program

PriceSmart, Inc. (formerly Price Quest, Inc.) operates international and domestic merchandising businesses. The company's domestic merchandising business consists of a travel program offering preferential pricing on cruises, car rentals, vacation packages, airline tickets and hotels. PriceSmart’s international merchandising business consists of the management of several joint ventures in license membership stores. These stores offer low priced brand name and private label merchandise in a warehouse format and require an annual membership fee. PriceSmart and PriceCostco stores offer perishable foods and basic consumer products; the stores are operated in the Northern Mariana Islands, Panama, the Peoples Republic of China, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Honduras, El Salvador and Nicaragua. The company is capitalizing on the growing consumer markets of Asia and Latin America and its target customers base of small businesses and households.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: PriceCostco Price Quest

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Gilbert Partida, Pres./CEO Kurt A. May, Exec. VP/ COO Karen J. Ratcliff, Exec. VP/CFO Ron W.O. DeHarte, Sr. VP-Mktg. Ron W.O. DeHarte, Sr. VP-Comm.

Phone: 619-581-4530 Fax: 619-581-4707 Toll-Free: Address: 4649 Morena Blvd., San Diego, CA, 92117 Internet Address: www.pricesmart.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $97,188 1997 Sales: $74,375 1996 Sales: $48,250 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: PSMT

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $3,028 1997 Profits: $-24,843 1996 Profits: $-11,423 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

147

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $167,708 Second Exec. Salary: $134,711

Bonus: $25,000 Bonus: $85,000

Growth in international markets.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

447

PROFFITTS, INC. Industry Group Code: 4521 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales:

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Proffitt's Mc Rae's Younker's Parisian Herberger's Carson Pirie Scott

Profits:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

$14,956,354 $14,956,354 $14,956,354 $14,956,354 $14,956,354 $14,956,354

Mall/In-line Mall/In-line Mall/In-line Mall/In-line Mall/In-line malls, strip centers

24 31 50 40 37 30

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Department Stores, Retail Furniture stores

Founded in 1919, Proffitt’s, Inc., recently acquired by Saks, Inc., is a leading regional department store company primarily offering everything from moderate to upscale brand-name fashion apparel, accessories, shoes, cosmetics, furniture and decorative home furnishings. Located primarily in leading regional and community malls, Proffitt’s 237 stores operate under the names Proffitt's (24 stores), McRae’s (31 stores), Younkers (50 stores), Parisian (40 stores), Herberger’s (37 stores), Carson Pirie Scott (30 stores), Boston Store (12 stores) and Bergner’s (13 stores). The company additionally operates four freestanding furniture stores. The company’s Parisian stores act as specialty department stores, excluding home furnishings from the merchandise and carrying upscale and more unique assortments of merchandise. Proffitt’s, Inc. recently acquired Brody Brothers Dry goods, Inc. Since 1992, the company’s operating earnings per share have grown at a compound rate of over 20%. Recently, Proffitt’s launched its private brand program, which will integrate Proffitt’s private brand merchandise into existing brand-name merchandise and create further differentiation from its competitors through unique, high-quality product offerings. The company plans to sustain its historical operating earnings per share growth rate by increasing sales and merchandise margins, further leveraging operating expenses, enhancing credit card operations, achieving unit goals and prudently managing balance sheets.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Proffitt's Mc Rae's Younkers Parisian Herberger's Carson Pirie Scott Boston Store Saks, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. R. Brad Martin, CEO James A. Coggin, COO/Pres. Douglas E. Coltharp, CFO/Exec. VP Fran U. Jose, Sr. VP-Mktg. R. Thomas Coan, Sr. VP-Human Resources Mark A. Goldstein, Sr. VP/ CIO Robert M. Mosco, Pres./CEO-Proffitt's Merch. Group Brian J. Martin, Exec. VP-Law and General Counsel

Phone: 423-983-7000 Fax: 423-981-6325 Toll-Free: Address: P.O. Box 9388, Alcoa, TN, 33701 Internet Address: www.proffitts.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $ 1997 Sales: $ 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: PRFT

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $ 1997 Profits: $ 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,425

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $613,474 Second Exec. Salary: $510,090

Bonus: $1,629,882 Bonus: $300,000

Acquired by Saks, Inc.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 11 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 2 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Ron Foth Advertising, Columbus, OH

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

448

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

PROTEAM.COM INC Industry Group Code: 4541 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 5

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 16

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Direct marketing/On-line only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Database-Driven Specialty Retailer Non-store retailer Catalogs Internet websites Electronic media (TV & radio)

Genesis Direct, Inc. is a leading database-driven specialty retailer in the rapidly growing universe of non-store shopping. The company has recently been reborn by divesting all of its catalog operations into an online sports equipment store at Proteam.com. Subsequently, the company's name has been changed from Genesis Direct to Proteam.com, Inc. With a current portfolio of 33 brands, the company offers products directly to consumers in targeted niche markets primarily through a variety of distinctive, information-rich catalogs, as well as Internet websites and electronic media, including television and radio. Genesis offers more than 15,000 products within four distinct but interrelated market categories: sports, kids, gifts and collectibles and institutional business-tobusiness. The firm established strategic relationships in the sports market with the NBA, NHL, Major League Baseball, NASCAR and the NFL Quarterback Club. Recent business endeavors include an expansion of Genesis Direct’s e-commerce business with an electronic commerce agreement to bring products from over 20 brands to Excite and WebCrawler. The company also announced strategic repositioning of its business to focus on its web-based sports business. Genesis launched ProTeam.com, the on-line channel for its allencompassing 1-800-Pro-team sports brand. An agreement signed with Yahoo! will provide one-click access to ProTeam.com. Other recent developments include the acquisition of The Edge Company Catalog, a specialty catalog featuring distinctive gifts, tools and collectibles, and the acquisition of the Carol Wright Gifts unit of Cox Enterprises, Inc., which includes the Applecreek catalog.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Proteam.com, Inc. The Edge Company Catalog 1-800-Pro-Team Carol Wright Gifts

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Warren Struhl, CEO Hunter Cohen, Exec. VP/COO Ronald R. Benanto, CFO/VP David Sable, Chief Mktg. Officer Kathleen M. Davis, VP-Human Resources Dominic J. DiMascia, VP-Info. Systems George J. Mollo, Jr., VP-Merch. Oper.and Inventory Control Douglas S. Rose, VP-Corp. Dev. Warren Struhl, Pres. George A. D'Amico, VP-Customer Service and Sales

Phone: 201-867-2800 Fax: 201-867-1112 Toll-Free: Address: 100 Plaza Drive, Secaucus, NJ, 07094 Internet Address: www.genesisdirect.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $107,200 1997 Sales: $18,500 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: PRTM

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-76,200 1997 Profits: $-13,500 1996 Profits: $-2,700 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,125

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $300,000 Second Exec. Salary: $183,333

Bonus: $ Bonus: $5,000

Growth through acquisitions/Strong Internet presence.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 3 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 3 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

449

PSC INC Industry Group Code: 3341B Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 2

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Support services

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Scanning Systems, Retail Handheld and fixed-position bar code readers Handheld and fixed-position verifiers Integrated sortation systems

PSC, Inc. manufactures the world’s broadest line of handheld and fixed position bar code readers, verifiers, integrated sortation and point-of-scale scanning systems. The company has developed products for automatic data collection at every stage of the product supply chain from raw material, manufacturing, warehousing and logistics to transportation, inventory management and point-of-sale. Government, food, general retail, health care and other industries use PSC’s products, which are sold through original equipment manufacturers, value-added resellers, distributors, systems integrators and PSC’s own sales team. With offices in Australia, Belgium, China, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, Latin America, Spain, Sweden, the United Kingdom and the United States, PSC is truly worldwide. Recently, PSC reduced its operating expenses by $6 million, reduced its debt by $10 million and increased its operating earnings threefold during the second half of fiscal 1997. PSC is currently continuing to streamline its product line, eliminating several older, duplicative or low-demand products. The company is focused on sales and product development efforts that highlight PSC’s products that offer the greatest competitive advantage and potential. Recently, the company’s international business has doubled, dominating the Chinese market.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: QuickScan 6000 Handheld Scanner Magellan SL Slimline Scanner Series Duet Dual Action Scanner Quick Check PC600 Bar Code Verifier U-Scan Express Self-Checkout System LM500 Minuet Scan Engine PSC Tunnel Systems

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Robert C. Strandberg, CEO Robert C. Strandberg, Pres. Willam J. Woodward, VP/CFO Nigel P. Davis, VP-Sales-Europe, Middle East, and Africa Dennis T. Hopwood, VP-Human Resources Brad R. Reddersen, VP/Chief Tech. Officer Matt D. Schler, VP-Engineering & Product Dev. William L. Parnell, Jr., VP-Oper. William J. Woodard, Treas.

Phone: 716-265-1600 Fax: 716-265-6489 Toll-Free: 800-828-6489 Address: 675 Basket Road, Webster, NY, 14580-9787 Internet Address: www.pscnet.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $217,223 1997 Sales: $207,840 1996 Sales: $146,051 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: PSCX

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $10,516 1997 Profits: $2,889 1996 Profits: $-46,980 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,200

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $234,705 Second Exec. Salary: $187,445

Bonus: $90,789 Bonus: $142,758

Manufactures the world's broadest line of laser-based handheld and fixed-position bar code readers.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

450

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

PUBLIX SUPER MARKETS INC Industry Group Code: 4451 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 8

Profits: 5

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Publix

27,000-60,000

$20,592,363

In-line

586

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Grocery Stores/Supermarkets, Retail

Publix Super Markets, Inc. operates a chain of retail food supermarkets primarily in Florida, as well as in Georgia, South Carolina and Alabama. The company is one of the ten largest supermarket chains in the United States and is the largest employee-owned supermarket chain in the U.S. with 85% of the company owned by employees and the remainder owned by officers and directors. All of the company’s supermarkets sell groceries, dairy, produce, deli, bakery goods, meat, seafood, housewares, and health and beauty care items; many of the stores also have pharmacy, photo and floral departments. Publix Super Markets is a manufacturer of deli, bakery, and dairy goods for its own stores. The company contributed over $69 million last year to its profit sharing plan, available to most employees. The company also maintains a 401(k) plan and a stock ownership plan for all employees. Benefits are very strong. Even part-time employees are offered profit sharing.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Publix

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Howard M. Jenkins, CEO W. Edwin Crenshaw, Pres.

Phone: 941-688-1188 Fax: 941-284-5532 Toll-Free: Address: 1936 George Jenkins Blvd., Lakeland, FL, 33815 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $12,190,436 1997 Sales: $11,338,885 1996 Sales: $10,525,969 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: PUSH

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $378,274 1997 Profits: $354,622 1996 Profits: $265,176 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 46,600

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $300,000 Second Exec. Salary: $299,600

Bonus: $180,895 Bonus: $174,192

Rapid growth/Strong distribution system.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

451

PUEBLO XTRA INTERNATIONAL, INC. Industry Group Code: 4451 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 24

Profits: 31

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Pueblo Xtra Blockbuster (franchises) PuebloXtra

12,050-54,648 50,173-84,400 3,800-5,700 50,173-84,400

$13,065,000 $13,065,000 $1,381,000 $13,065,000

In-line In-line In-line/Free-standing In-line

50 incl. in above number 44 incl. in 50

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Grocery Stores/Supermarkets, Retail Video stores

Pueblo Xtra International, Inc. is a holding company that owns all of the stock of Pueblo International, Inc. Pueblo is the leading supermarket chain in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and the territory of the U.S. Virgin Islands. Pueblo is also the leading operator of video rental outlets in Puerto Rico and St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands through its exclusive franchise rights with Blockbuster Entertainment Corporation and its in-supermarket video operations. The company’s Xtra stores are larger stores that appeal to more price-conscious families, and the company believes that it is possible that Xtra stores may serve customers better than Pueblo stores. In past years, the company has converted three Pueblo stores to Xtra stores to better suit the buying habits of customers in those locations. The company recently exited the underperforming market in Florida due to insufficient sales.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Pueblo Xtra Blockbuster

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. William T. Keon III, CEO William T. Keon III, Pres. Daniel J. O'Leary, Exec. VP/CFO Alicia Echevarria, VP-Human Resources

Phone: 954-977-2500 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 1300 Northwest 22nd St., Pompano Beach, FL, 33069 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $784,800 1998 Sales: $938,500 1997 Sales: $1,020,100 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: PRIVATE

1999 Profits: $8,900 1998 Profits: $-5,600 1997 Profits: $-19,600 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 5,442

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $340,015 Second Exec. Salary: $243,270

Bonus: $328,288 Bonus: $97,308

Continues to strengthen its position in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 2 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

452

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

RAG SHOPS INC Industry Group Code: 45112 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 6

Profits: 6

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Rag Shops

5,000-17,600

$1,377,212

In-line/Free-standing

66

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Crafts, Retail Craft merchandise

Rag Shops, Inc. operates specialty retail stores that sell competitively priced craft and fabric merchandise. The company caters to value conscious consumers who create decorative accessories and sew. Rag Shops, Inc. currently operates 33 retail stores in New Jersey, 19 in Florida, seven in Pennsylvania, six in New York and one in Connecticut. The company anticipates opening five to seven stores in the near future. Rag Shops, Inc. stores offer a diverse and extensive assortment of value-priced crafts, fabrics and related items to creative craft and sewing consumers. Craft items include silk flowers, wicker, picture frames, wood products, stitchery, yarn, wearable art, art supplies and craft supplies. Fabric items available at the company’s stores include apparel and home decorative fabrics, trimmings, patterns and sewing notions. 59 stores also offer custom picture framing. Rag Shops, Inc. also sells a wide variety of seasonal merchandise with special emphasis on the Easter, Backto-School, Halloween and Christmas seasons. Craft or sewing classes are offered every week at a select number of each of the company’s stores to further promote both specific products and store business.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Rag Shops

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Stanley Berenzweig, CEO Michael Aaronson, Pres./COO Steven B. Barrett, Sr. VP/CFO Steven B. Barrett, Treas.

Phone: 973-423-1303 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 111 Wagaraw Road, Hawthorne, NJ, 07506-2711 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $90,566 1997 Sales: $86,528 1996 Sales: $83,767 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: RAGS

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $ 942 1997 Profits: $ 207 1996 Profits: $ 520 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

310

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $163,094 Second Exec. Salary: $150,276

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Fills a niche in both the crafts and home sewing markets.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

453

REAL GOODS TRADING CORPORATION Industry Group Code: 4400 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 16

Profits: 13

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Real Goods Solar Living Center (store) Renewable Energy

1,500-4,800 5,000

$970,000 $970,000

Free-standing Adjacent to Solar Living Center

2 1

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Environmentally Related Products, Retail Renewable energy products Solar energy Mail-order

Real Goods Trading Corporation primarily sells environmentally related products and renewable energy products through mail order catalogs, direct sales, retail stores and its Internet web site. The company’s mail order catalogs feature renewable energy products and other environmentally centered products, and operate under the names Real Goods, Earth Care, Real Goods News, Post Consumer and Real Goods Renewables. Real Goods Renewables is additionally the name for the company’s renewable energy products department. Real Goods Trading Corporation operates retail stores in Hopland, California, Berkeley, California and Eugene, Oregon. The company recently moved a small outlet store in Ukiah, California to a site adjacent to the Berkeley store. Through its Institute for Solar Living, the company conducts consumer education activities including a seminar series, and creates educational products which, in turn, support its solar energy products. Currently, the company is building an alliance with Green Mountain Energy Resources, an electric utility based in Vermont that is environmentally friendly. Along with this company, Real Goods Trading Company plans to sign many of its customers up to renewable energy powered electrical services, and to promote rooftop solar systems to persons in urban areas. The company feels that it is uniquely poised to take advantage of the expanding solar market, as its assets increased from $6.8 million to $8.3 million in fiscal 1998.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Institute for Solar Living Solar Living Center Real Goods Earth Care Real Goods News Real Stuff Post Consumer Renewable Energy Department

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. John Schaeffer, CEO John Schaeffer, Pres. Donna Montag, CFO Margie Eddy, Asst. Controller/Department Mgr.

Phone: 707-468-9292 Fax: 707-468-9394 Toll-Free: 800-762-7325 Address: 555 Leslie St., Ukiah, CA, 95482 Internet Address: www.realgoods.com Notes/Other Info: [email protected]

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $17,034 1997 Sales: $18,424 1996 Sales: $15,432 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: RGTC

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $- 322 1997 Profits: $ 363 1996 Profits: $- 202 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

113

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $70,981 Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Emphasizes the importance of living on a low consumption energy basis.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 8 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

454

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

REEDS JEWELERS INC Industry Group Code: 44831 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 9

Profits: 8

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Reeds Jewelers Melart Jewelers Mills Jewelers

500-2,100 500-2,100 500-2,100

$1,030,981 $1,030,981 $1,030,981

Mall/In-line (2) Mall/In-line (2) Mall/In-line (2)

103 incl. in above number incl. in above number

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Jewelry, Retail

Reeds Jewelers, Inc. are specialty retailers of fine jewelry, selling to the general public through retail outlets in thirteen states in the United States. The company is the tenth largest retail jewelry chain in the U.S. The company currently operates 103 stores primarily in enclosed regional shopping malls in 15 southeastern states. The company specializes in the sale of fine jewelry and emphasizes quality, value, and service. Reeds Jewelers plans to open five new stores in its Reed Jewelers chain in 1999.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Reeds Jewelers Melart Jewelers Mills Jewelers The Jewelry Vault Reeds Financial Services, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Alan Zimmer, CEO Alan Zimmer, Pres. James R. Rouse, CFO Allan E. Metzner, VP-Admin./Corp. Controller Gerald R. Smith, VP-Store Oper. James R. Rouse, Treas. Orville R. Westmoreland, VP-Financial Services

Phone: 910-350-3100 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: P.O. Box 2229, Wilmington, NC, 28402 Internet Address: www.reedsusa.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $109,284 1998 Sales: $102,845 1997 Sales: $98,952 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: REED

1999 Profits: $4,205 1998 Profits: $2,708 1997 Profits: $4,025 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

802

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $199,808 Second Exec. Salary: $143,923

Bonus: $55,000 Bonus: $25,000

10th largest retail jewelry chain in the U.S./Consistent profitability.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Atlantic Coast Advertising, Wilmington, NC

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

455

REGAL CINEMAS INC Industry Group Code: 512131 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 4

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Regal Cinema

Profits: 2

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

$1,754,409

8.9 Screens/Free-standing

403

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Movie Theaters Mini-golf courses Virtual reality games

Regal Cinemas, Inc. is one of the fastest growing theater chains in the United States. After the company's acquisition by Kohlberg Kravis Roberts and Co. and Hicks Muse & KKR in 1998, Regal Cinemas and Act III Theaters merged, forming a theatrical powerhouse. The new combined company, operating under the Regal Cinemas name, now operates 403 theaters in 30 states-- a total of 3,500 screens. The company's tehaters are concentrated in mid-size urban areas and suburban fringes of major cities. Additionally, Regal Cinemas operates FunScape entertainment complexes, which offer 13 to 16-screen theaters along with 36-hole miniature golf courses, laser tag, virtual reality units and video arcades. FunScape complexes also offer party rooms for social gatherings and cover an average area of 95,000 to 140,000 square feet. Regal Cinemas currently plans to include IMAX 3-D theaters in ten new multiplex theater projects over the next five years.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: FunScape Act III Theatres Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. Hicks Muse & KKR

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Mike Campbell, CEO Greg Dunn, Sr. VP/COO Wade Canning, VP-Finance Phil Zacharetti, Sr. VP-Mktg. and Advertising Randy Smith, Sr. VP-Human Resources Roger Frazee, VP-Tech. Services J.E. Henry, Sr. VP/CIO Susan Seagraves, Controller Mike Levesque, Sr. VP-Oper. Mark Monroe, Treas. Mike Campbell, Pres. Leon Hurst, VP-Security and Quality Control

Phone: 423-922-1123 Fax: 423-922-3188 Toll-Free: Address: 7132 Commercial Park Drive, Knoxville, TN, 37918 Internet Address: www.regalcinemas.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $479,097 1997 Sales: $389,193 1996 Sales: $309,022 1995 Sales: $170,908

Stock Ticker: REGL

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $25,179 1997 Profits: $25,066 1996 Profits: $17,505 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,073

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $402,000 Second Exec. Salary: $252,000

Bonus: $500,000 Bonus: $219,213

Concentrates on mid-size urban areas and suburban fringes of major cities/Rapid growth through acquisitions.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

456

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

REGIS CORP Industry Group Code: 81211 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store:

Regis Hairstylists MasterCuts SuperCuts Trade Secret SmartStyle International

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Mall Mall/In-line In-line

825 412 1,268 374 273 392

Free-standing/Mall/In-line

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Hair, Nail and Skin Care Salons, Retail

With 3,539 salons, Regis Corporation is the world’s largest owner, operator, franchiser and consolidator of hair and retail product salons. Operating under the names Regis Hairstylists, SuperCuts, SmartStyle, MasterCuts, Trade Secret and International, Regis Corporation’s locations span throughout 50 states, Puerto Rico, Canada, France, Ireland, Mexico, South Africa, Switzerland, the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom, and include 816 franchised stores. Regis Corporation’s system-wide sales passed the $1 billion mark in fiscal 1998, an achievement made possible by its growth strategy of securing profitable growth through same-store sales increases, new salon construction and acquisition. The company’s goal is to provide high quality haircare services and products to customers in different market groups through physically attractive salons located in convenient, high profile locations. Regis Corporation is currently practicing several strategies to achieve this goal, including providing consistent, quality services, expanding its mall and stripmall based locations, maintaining its multiple salon concepts and by continuing to provide its customer with high quality haircare products. The company's Mastercuts chain and Regis Hairstylists chain each plan to open 50 new stores in 1999.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Regis Hairstylists MasterCuts Family Haircutters Trade Secret Supercuts SmartStyle International

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Paul D. Finkelstein, CEO Paul D. Finkelstein, Pres. Randy L. Pearce, Sr. VP- Finance/CFO Mary Andert, Sr. VP- Mktg. Bert M. Gross, Sr. VP/General Counsel/Sec. Sharon Kiker, COO- Regis Hairstylists

Phone: 612-947-7777 Fax: 612-947-7600 Toll-Free: Address: 7201 Metro Boulevard, Edina, MN, 55439 Internet Address: www.regiscorp.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $798,144 1997 Sales: $713,219 1996 Sales: $617,307 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: RGIS

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $30,488 1997 Profits: $6,574 1996 Profits: $9,451 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 28,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $613,200 Second Exec. Salary: $500,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $100,000

Largest owner and operator of mall-based hair-care and retail hair product salons in the world.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: McCann-Erickson Local Broadcast, San Francisco, CA

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

457

RESTORATION HARDWARE Industry Group Code: 44413 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 13

Profits: 8

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Restoration Hardware

11,046

$3,221,154

Free standing/In-line/Mall

65

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Furniture Stores-Retail

When the business was founded almost two decades ago, Restoration Hardware, Inc. acted as a purveyor of fittings and fixtures for older homes. Over time, the business has evolved into a unique home furnishings retailer offering customers a wide variety of distinctive, sometimes hard-tofind merchandise that is always of high quality. Classic, high-quality furniture, lighting, home furnishings and functional, decorative hardware is combined with unusual items such as the Original Russian Forever Flashlight and the Bite The Man Dog Toy in a Restoration Hardware store to form a unique, quality and fun shopping experience. It is this unique experience that the company believes sets it apart from its competitors and encourages repeat business. Another unique feature indigenous to Restoration Hardware stores is the company’s method of combining anecdotal, informative signs written by the president of the company with the merchandise. The company asserts that this enhances its connection with the customer as well as informs the customer of the origin of the merchandise being considered. Currently, Restoration Hardware is practicing several strategies that it hopes will achieve the company’s goal of being the leading lifestyle-oriented consumer brand. Among these are its plans to expand the business through adding additional locations to its existing 60 stores in 25 states and Vancouver, British Columbia. Restoration Hardware also recently launched its first catalog, which the company believes will help spread consumer awareness of the merchandise.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Restoration Hardware The Michaels Furniture Company

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Stephern Gordon, CEO, Chrmn. Thomas Cristopher, COO/Pres. Thomas Low, CFO/Senior VP Kellie Krug, Mktg./Press Contact Jeanette Long, Investor Relations Coordinator

Phone: 415-924-1005 Fax: 415-924-6421 Toll-Free: Address: 15 Koch Road, Suite J, Corte Madera, CA, 94925 Internet Address: www.restorationhardware.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $209,375 1998 Sales: $97,872 1997 Sales: $39,672 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: RSTO

1999 Profits: $4,866 1998 Profits: $1,748 1997 Profits: $ 796 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,400

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $ Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Unique home furnishings/anecdotal sales approach.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 4 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

458

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

REX STORES CORPORATION Industry Group Code: 443 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 8

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

REX Rex Radio & TV Stereo Town Kelly & Cohen Appliances

10,800 10,800 10,800 10,800

Profits: 6

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Free-standing/In-line/Mall Free-standing/In-line/Mall Free-standing/In-line/Mall Free-standing/In-line/Mall

228 incl. in above number incl. in above number incl. in above number

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Electronics, Audio, and Appliance Stores-Retail Personal computers

Since 1980, REX Stores Corporation has grown from four to 228 consumer electronics/appliance retail stores located throughout 35 of the United States. Stores are concentrated primarily in the Midwest and Southeast, with the opening of approximately 16 stores in the Northwest portion of the country expanding REX's business to the west in 1996, 1997 and 1998. Each store offers a wide variety of name brand products such as televisions, video and audio equipment, computers and large and small appliances. Depth of selection paired with key product categories combine to formulate REX's business strategy. Brand name products are offered at the store's everyday low prices, and are then combined with special promotions and sales to put REX Stores ahead of the competition. Each store sports a knowledgeable sales staff, and each local newspaper usually features extensive REX advertising. Focusing on markets with a newspaper circulation that can assist the company in cost-effectively and efficiently promoting themselves through print advertising is a regular practice. REX Stores focus on small to medium-sized markets. Here, the company believes that it can become a dominant retailer through value-minded pricing.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: REX Stores

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Stuart Rose, CEO Lawrence Tomchin, Pres./COO Douglas L. Bruggeman, VP-Finance/CFO Douglas L. Bruggeman, Treas.

Phone: 937-276-3931 Fax: 937-276-8643 Toll-Free: Address: 2875 Needmore Road, Dayton, OH, 45414 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $416,673 1998 Sales: $411,005 1997 Sales: $427,378 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: RSC

1999 Profits: $11,195 1998 Profits: $7,412 1997 Profits: $7,362 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,143

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $154,500 Second Exec. Salary: $98,400

Bonus: $298,000 Bonus: $15,400

Features high quality, brand name products at everyday low prices.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

459

REXALL SUNDOWN INC Industry Group Code: 45411 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 12

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 2

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Mail-order

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Vitamins and Medicines, Retail Nutritional supplements Over-the-counter pharmaceuticals Consumer health products Diet and weight management products Mail-order

Rexall Sundown, Inc. develops, manufactures, markets and sells vitamins, herbal supplements, homeopathic remedies, personal care goods, weight control products and a multitude of other natural products. The company additionally manufactures both multivitamin formulas and individual vitamin and mineral products. Many of the company's over 1,000 products are sold at mass-market retailers such as American Stores, Kmart and Wal-Mart. Rexall Sundown additionally sells its products through mail order and direct network sales-- the company's Rexall Showcase International division boasts over 100,000 independent distributors. Recently, the company consummated a business combination with Richardson Labs, Inc. in a pooling of interests transaction. Richardson Labs is involved in the sale of several natural weight loss products, including Ultra Chroma Slim. In 1998, Rexall Sundown, Inc. experienced a $101.5 million sales growth, with an ending sales figure of $530.7 million. The company additionally experienced a 100% net income growth in 1998, with an overall net income of $70.2 million during that fiscal year.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Sundown Vitamins Rexall Consumer Products Thompson Nutritional Products Richardson Labs, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Christian Nast, CEO/Pres. Dean DeSantis, COO Geary Cotton, VP-Finance/CFO Dean DeSantis, Sr. VP-Oper. Geary Cotton, Treas. Nikolas Palin, Pres.-Sundown Vitamins

Phone: 561-241-9400 Fax: 561-995-0197 Toll-Free: Address: 6111 Broken Sound Parkway, Boca Raton, FL, 33487 Internet Address: www.rexallsundown.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $530,700 1997 Sales: $263,400 1996 Sales: $187,800 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: RXSD

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $70,200 1997 Profits: $35,100 1996 Profits: $20,300 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,300

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $491,761 Second Exec. Salary: $416,278

Bonus: $237,500 Bonus: $280,000

Rexall Sundown, Inc. is a world leader in developing, manufacturing, marketing, and distributing vitamins, nutritional supplements, over-the-counter pharmaceuticals and consumer health products/Excellent growth in mail order and direct sales.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Avrett, Free & Ginsberg, Inc., New York, NY

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International: y

460

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

RICHFOOD HOLDINGS INC Industry Group Code: 4451 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 13

Profits: 13

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Metro/Basics Farm Fresh/Rack & Sack Shoppers Food Warehouse

45,000-60,000 33,000-55,000 50,000-60,000

$6,862,903 $6,862,903

In-line/Free-standing In-line/Free-standing In-line/Free-standing

17 45 38

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Grocery Stores/Supermarkets, Retail Wholesale food distribution Dairy Consulting and financial services

Founded in 1935, General Richfoods Holdings, Inc. is a major integrated foods company that deals in both retail and wholesale of foods throughout the Mid- Atlantic region of the United States. A wide variety of national brand and private label grocery products, dairy products, frozen foods, fresh produce items, meats, delicatessen , bakery and non-food products are supplied through the company’s wholesale division. Over 1,400 stores are served by this division, including leading regional chains and smaller independent operations. Through distribution centers, customers are offered a dependable supply and quick delivery of over 37,000 food and non-food products. The company’s retail division is currently the second largest food retailer in its retail operating region. Operating 17 Metro grocery stores, 45 Farm Fresh stores and 38 Shoppers Food Warehouse stores. The company is currently focused on achieving sales and earnings growth in both divisions of business. On March 4, 1998, the Farm Fresh subsidiary of General Richfoods Holdings, Inc. acquired substantially all assets and certain liabilities of Farm Fresh, Inc., or Old Farm Fresh, a supermarket chain that was privately owned. The transaction was completed through a prepackaged Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceeding, commenced by Old Farm Fresh in the United States Bankruptcy Court.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Richfood/Virgina Richfood/Pennsylvania METRO/BASICS Retail Division Richfood, Inc. Rotelle, Inc. Super Rite Corporation Farm Fresh

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. John E. Stokely, CEO John E. Stokely, Pres. John C. Belknap, Exec. VP/CFO Janet G. Hildebrand, Sr. VP- Human Resources Alec C. Covington, Pres./COO-Wholesale Oper. John D. Ryder, Pres./COO-Retail Div.

Phone: 804-915-6000 Fax: 804-915-6020 Toll-Free: Address: 4860 Cox Rd., Ste. 300, Glen Allen, VA, 23116 Internet Address: www.richfood.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $3,203,731 1997 Sales: $3,411,625 1996 Sales: $3,250,868 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: RFH

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $54,706 1997 Profits: $59,469 1996 Profits: $37,051 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 9,479

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $500,000 Second Exec. Salary: $452,115

Bonus: $500,000 Bonus: $550,000

Fourth largest wholesale food distributor in the U.S.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

461

RIGHT START INC (THE) Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 50

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

The Right Start

11,000

Profits: 43

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Mall/In-line

43

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel-Children's, Retail Mail order-children's apparel and other items

The Right Start, Inc. is a leading retailer of unique, highquality products designed for infants and young children. Through 43 retail stores and The Right Start Catalog, the company offers approximately 800 items targeting children and infants from pre-birth to age four. Product categories include nursery, baby’s health, feeding, travel, developmental and apparel. Included in these categories are bedding, furniture, bottles and more. The Right Start stores are designed to provide a safe , baby-friendly environment intended to ease the shopping experience for new parents. Recently, the company expanded its product line to include a broadened selection of infant care products, apparel and developmental merchandise. After much research, the The Right Start has found that its freestanding locations provide a greater degree of this ease to its customers. Therefore, the company plans to open six or more free-standing locations soon, and additionally plans to continue researching store location strategy. The Right Start is currently in the process of closing nine underperforming mall-located stores. The company’s catalog offers an alternative way to shop for busy new parents. Several issues are mailed out each year.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: The Right Start Catalog The Right Start

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Jerry R. Welch, CEO Jerry R. Welch, Pres. Gina M. Shauer, CFO/Sec. Gerald E. Mitchell, VP-Merch. Marilyn Platfoot, VP-Retail Oper.

Phone: 818-707-7100 Fax: 818-707-1429 Toll-Free: Address: 5334 Sterling Center Drive, Westlake Village, CA, 91361 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $36,611 1998 Sales: $38,521 1997 Sales: $27,211 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: RTST

1999 Profits: $-5,680 1998 Profits: $-9,241 1997 Profits: $-5,378 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

327

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $90,865 Second Exec. Salary: $80,481

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Fills a specific niche market in infant's clothing.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

462

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

RITE AID CORPORATION Industry Group Code: 44611 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 3

Profits: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Rite Aid Thrifty PayLess Harco/K&B PCS Health Systems, Inc.

7,200-20,000 7,200-20,000 7,200-20,000

$2,427,921 $4,468,719 $1,506,024

Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line

2,636 1,007 332

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Drug Stores, Retail Shipping/packing services

Rite Aid Corporation is one of the largest retail drugstore chains in the country, operating over 3,900 drugstores in 32 states. The company recently added 411 of the larger prototype storerooms, including 235 that were relocations or expansions of existing stores. In addition, 332 stores were added with the acquisitions of Harco, Inc., and K&B, Inc. The company’s drugstores cater to convenience, offering a full selection of health and personal care products, seasonal merchandise and a large private label product line. Express mail with complementary services and one-hour photo departments have been added in select locations. The company’s Eagle Managed Care Corp. subsidiary markets prescription plans and sells other managed health care services to employers, health maintenance organizations and government-sponsored employee benefit programs. The majority of the integration of Thrifty Payless Holdings, Inc., the company’s largest acquisition, was successfully completed. A new Rite Rewards customer loyalty card was released. This card enables customers to receive discounts on everyday merchandise, as well as larger discounts on private label products and photo finishing. A plan was made to build larger, more sophisticated distribution centers, featuring computer and materials handling equipment that will allow the company to consolidate and replace obsolete facilities.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Eagle Managed Care Corporation Perry Drug Stores, Inc. Rite Express APEX Drugstores Inc. GDF, Inc. Harco, Inc. K & B, Inc. Keystone Centers Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Martin L. Grass, CEO Timothy J. Noonan, Pres./COO Frank M. Bergonzi, Exec. VP/CFO Beth J. Kaplan, Exec. VP-Mktg. James M. Talton, Sr. VP-Human Resources Kent L. Whiting, Sr. VP-Info. Services Charles R. Kibler, VP-Drugstore Oper.

Phone: 717-761-2633 Fax: Toll-Free: 800-916-7788 interactive news fax Address: P.O. Box 3165, Harrisburg, PA, 17105-3165 Internet Address: www.RiteAid.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $12,731,900 1998 Sales: $11,375,105 1997 Sales: $3,970,201 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: RAD

1999 Profits: $199,570 1998 Profits: $512,377 1997 Profits: $261,125 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 89,900

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $1,000,000 Second Exec. Salary: $700,000

Bonus: $898,000 Bonus: $628,600

Acquisition of 1,007 stores from Thrifty PayLess makes this firm a giant in the industry.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 4 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: DeWitt Media, Inc., New York, NY; MARC Direct, Pittsburgh, PA

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

463

RIVERSIDE GROUP INC Industry Group Code: 44413 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 9

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Wickes Cybermax, Inc. Buildscape, Inc.

36,400-48,100 Internet only Internet only

Profits: 11

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Free-standing

101

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Building Materials/Hardware Stores, Retail Commercial real estate Internet service

Riverside Group, Inc. is primarily engaged in retail and distribution of building materials through its subsidiary, Wickes, Inc. Wickes strives to become the premier provider of building materials and services to professionals in the construction and building industries. With 101 sales and distribution facilities and 10 component manufacturing facilities located across 23 states, Wickes is able to serve a broad market of the building industry. Riverside Group, Inc. additionally deals in commercial real estate in Atlanta, Georgia and Jacksonville, Florida, where market interest has recently shown a great increase. The company plans in the next year to market additional services to the building industry and to retail consumers in the markets of energy, telephone and Internet technology services. Currently, Riverside’s Internet service provider subsidiary, Cybermax, is expanding its current customer base through direct sales, franchise sales and acquisitions of Internet service providers. As increased attention is paid to the Internet and Internet services, Riverside intends to further capitalize on the future business possibilities in this industry through its technology.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Riverside Group, Inc. Wickes, Inc. Cybermax

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. J. Steven Wilson, CEO J. Steven Wilson, Pres. Catherine J. Gray, Sr. VP/CFO Catherine C. Gray, Treas.

Phone: 904-281-2200 Fax: 904-296-0584 Toll-Free: Address: 7800 Belfort Parkway, Suite 100, Jacksonville, FL, 32256 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $672,764 1997 Sales: $896,245 1996 Sales: $483,312 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: RSGI

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-12,307 1997 Profits: $-6,209 1996 Profits: $- 406 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 3,354

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $681,490 Second Exec. Salary: $141,667

Bonus: $200,000 Bonus: $37,500

Large facility network.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

464

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

ROBERDS INC Industry Group Code: 421 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 5

Profits: 9

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Roberds

50,000-81,000

$13,279,583

Free-standing/In-line

24

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Furniture Stores-Retail Electronics/appliances Bedding Electronics

Roberds, Inc. operates as a leading retailer in the United States of a broad assortment of home furnishings, including furniture, bedding, major appliances and major consumer electronics. The company operates 24 stores throughout Ohio, Georgia, Florida and Ohio. Stores feature high quality, name-brand furniture, bedding, major appliances and consumer electronics products at prices the company asserts are lower than competitors'. Stores are additionally larger than competitors', with average size per store totaling approximately 60,000 square feet. Every store is divided into several sections, each featuring a different type of merchandise. These stores are designed to attractively display merchandise, utilizing the larger available space to highlight items and provide an open shopping atmosphere. Roberds is priced with gross margins that are substantially lower than is attractive to much of the company’s competition, allowing Roberd’s to price its merchandise at a lower price that is substantially more attractive to its customers and lower than the competition.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Roberds

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Melvin H. Baskin, CEO Robert M. Wilson, Pres. Robert M. Wilson, Chief Admin. Officer/CFO Billy D. Benton, VP-Oper. Charles H. Palko, VP-Appiances and Electronics Michael Van Autreve, VP-Bedding

Phone: 937-859-5127 Fax: 937-859-6291 Toll-Free: Address: 1100 East Central Avenue, Dayton, OH, 45449-1888 Internet Address: www.roberdsinc.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $318,710 1997 Sales: $341,703 1996 Sales: $342,102 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: RBDS

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-16,123 1997 Profits: $-1,101 1996 Profits: $- 910 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,900

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $270,000 Second Exec. Salary: $250,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $5,000

Open seven days a week/Provides home delivery.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Stephens Advertising, Inc., Kettering, OH

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

465

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY INC Industry Group Code: 4400 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 15

Profits: 11

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory

1,000

$115,564

Mall/In-line/Tourist locations

40 company-owned; 187 franchised

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Food Stores-Chocolate, Retail

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, Inc. is a manufacturer, international franchiser and retail operator. The company is headquartered in Durango, Colorado and manufactures an extensive line of premium chocolate candies and other confectionary products. Currently, there are 40 company-owned and 185 franchised Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory stores operating in 43 states, Canada and Guam. Additionally, the company recently completed a master franchise agreement to establish a number of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory stores in Taiwan. Approximately 40% of products sold at the company-owned and franchised stores are prepared on the premises. The company believes that this in-store preparation creates a special store ambiance, and that the aroma and sight of products being made attracts foot traffic and assures customers that products are indeed fresh. The company believes that its principal competitive strengths lie in its name recognition, its reputation for the quality, variety and the taste of its products, the special ambiance of its stores and its knowledge and experience in applying criteria for selection of new store locations. The company also feels strongly about its expertise in the manufacture of chocolate candy products, the merchandising and marketing of chocolate and other candy products and the control and training infrastructure it has implemented to assure consistent customer service and execution of successful practices and techniques at its franchised and company-owned stores.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory Fuzziwigs

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Franklin E. Crail, Pres. Bryan J. Merryman, CFO Edward L. Dudley, VP-Sales and Mktg. Gary S. Hauer, Gary S. Hauer Clifton W. Folsom, VP-Franchise Support Jay B. Haws, VP-Creative Services

Phone: 970-259-0554 Fax: 970-247-9593 Toll-Free: Address: 265 Turner Drive, Durango, CO, 81301 Internet Address: www.rmcfusa.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $23,764 1997 Sales: $22,281 1996 Sales: $18,552 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: RMCF

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $ 240 1997 Profits: $-1,366 1996 Profits: $1,208 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

361

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $150,000 Second Exec. Salary: $100,000

Bonus: $67,500 Bonus: $20,000

Excellent locations/Manufactures its own chocolate products.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International: y

466

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

ROOM PLUS INC Industry Group Code: 421 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 10

Profits: 8

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Room Plus

2,000-5,000

$1,201,466

Mall/In-line

16

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Furniture Stores-Retail Furniture manufacturers

Organized in 1982, Room Plus, Inc. is a fully-integrated retailer and manufacturer of high-pressure, micalaminated furniture for residential use. The company primarily manufactures and retails bedroom furniture for children, though adult furniture and accessories are additionally manufactured and retailed. Room Plus offers furniture with a modular design that is intended to be multifunctional, interchangeable and space-saving. For families with limited apartment space, Room Plus offers an appealing and viable alternative to owning traditional, oneuse, space-grubbing furniture that may be more trouble than it is worth. Room Plus beds can be refitted into tables, and other pieces can be restructured and refitted to form and perform different and distinct functions. Use of high-quality raw materials such as high-pressure micalaminate that is more impact-resistant than wood set the furniture apart from the competition as well. Engineered wood that has been laminated on both sides to provide greater stability and protection against warping is also incorporated into the company’s pieces. Recently, Room Plus has implemented significant changes in its manufacturing facility and process in order to reduce costs.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Room Plus

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Marc Zucker, Pres./CEO Stephen Giordano, COO Jay Goldberg, CFO/Sec. Allan Socher, Pres./Dir.-Mktg. Theodore Shapiro, Theodore Shapiro

Phone: 973-523-4600 Fax: 973-523-4878 Toll-Free: Address: 91 Michigan Avenue, Paterson, NJ, 07503 Internet Address: www.roomplus.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $19,223 1997 Sales: $16,851 1996 Sales: $14,427 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: PLUS

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-2,775 1997 Profits: $-1,900 1996 Profits: $- 3 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

198

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $125,000 Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $119,250 Bonus: $

Very specialized items, primarily furniture for children ages 3 to 6 years old.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

467

ROSS STORES INC Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 5

Profits: 6

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Ross Dress For Less

24,000-35,000

$6,523,183

In-line

349

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel Stores, Retail

Ross Stores, Inc. operates a chain of off-price retail apparel stores that target value conscious men and women between the ages of 25 and 54 in white collar, middle-to-upper middle income households. The company offers its merchandise at low everyday prices-generally 20% to 60% below regular prices of most department and specialty stores. Ross offers a wide selection of name brand apparel and apparel-related merchandise for the entire family, as well as gift items for the home. The company currently operates 349 stores in 17 states. They are located in predominantly community and neighborhood strip shopping centers in heavily populated urban and suburban areas. Recently, the company opened 17 new stores and closed one store. In addition, the company recently completed adding a bed and bath section to all remaining stores. In 1999, Ross plans to open 30 new stores. Because of its outstanding low prices, Ross is favored to continue rapid growth..

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Ross Dress For Less Ross Shoes For Less

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Michael Balmuth, CEO Melvin A. Wilmore, Pres./COO John G. Call, Sr. VP/CFO David Goldman, VP-Mktg. Ivy D. Council, Sr. VP-Human Resources Barbara Levy, Sr. VP/General Merch. Mgr. James S. Jacobs, VP-Store Oper. Barry S. Gluck, Sr. VP/General Merch. Mgr. Irene A. Jamieson, Sr. VP/General Merch. Mgr.

Phone: 510-505-4400 Fax: 510-505-4181 Toll-Free: 800-317-7677 Address: 8333 Central Avenue, Newark, CA, 94560 Internet Address: www.rossstores.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $2,182,361 1998 Sales: $1,988,692 1997 Sales: $1,689,810 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: ROST

1999 Profits: $133,843 1998 Profits: $117,474 1997 Profits: $80,905 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 7,700

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $628,667 Second Exec. Salary: $623,833

Bonus: $632,000 Bonus: $628,000

Offers merchandise at low everyday prices, generally 20% to 60% below regular prices.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 10 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Admarketing, Inc., Los Angeles, CA

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

468

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

ROUSE CO (THE) Industry Group Code: 531 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

The Rouse Company

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

$11,750,416

Mall/In-line

24

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Real Estate Development and Management, Retail Hotel developers Land developers Shopping malls Theme-based malls

Incorporated in 1956, The Rouse Company is engaged or has a material financial interest in the ownership, management, acquisition and development of incomeproducing and other real estate in the United States. This real estate includes retail centers, office buildings, mixeduse projects, community retail centers and hotels. The management of one retail center in Canada and the development and sale of land in Maryland and Nevada for residential, commercial and industrial uses are also included in the company’s business ventures. The Rouse Company deals with negotiating lease terms with prospective and current tenants, identifying and attracting desirable new tenants, conducting local market and consumer research, developing and implementing long and short-term merchandising, leasing programs, assisting tenants in the presentation of merchandise and store fronts and maintenance of buildings. The company notably developed Columbia, Maryland, one of the first planned communities in the United States, as well as acquired the retail holdings of Howard Hughes’ estate. The company plans to continue diversifying its holdings through further acquisitions of this nature. The Rouse Company plans to manage four retail centers soon through a joint venture with the J.P. Morgan company.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: The Rouse Company

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Anthony W. Deering, Pres./CEO Douglas A. McGregor, COO Jeffrey H. Donahue, Exec. VP/CFO Robert Minutoli, Sr. VP/Dir.-New Bus.

Phone: 410-992-6000 Fax: 410-992-6263 Toll-Free: Address: 10275 Little Patuxent Parkway, Columbia, MD, 210443456 Internet Address: www.therousecompany.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $692,571 1997 Sales: $916,771 1996 Sales: $821,036 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: RSE

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $105,176 1997 Profits: $189,892 1996 Profits: $17,886 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 4,126

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $800,000 Second Exec. Salary: $520,961

Bonus: $1,015,200 Bonus: $548,972

One of the top mall developers in the U.S./Famous for developing shopping environments within unique and historic structures, such as Faneuil Hall.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

469

RUDDICK CORPORATION Industry Group Code: 4451 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 16

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Harris Teeter American & Efird, Inc.

12,000-66,000

Profits: 15

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

In-line/Free-standing

144

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Grocery Stores/Supermarkets, Retail Industrial and consumer sewing thread manufacturer

Ruddick Corporation is a holding company which, through its wholly owned subsidiaries, engages in two primary businesses. Harris Teeter, Inc. operates a regional chain of supermarkets in five southeastern states, and American & Efird, Inc. manufactures and distributes industrial and consumer sewing thread and sales yarn. The company’s Harris Teeter subsidiary has approximately 144 stores in Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. Harris Teeter has a program in place whereby each retail store will undergo a major remodel every eight years. Recently, Harris Teeter remodeled 27 stores and expects to remodel 32 stores. In addition, ten new stores were opened. American & Efird operates 13 manufacturing facilities in North Carolina and 16 distribution centers in the U.S. and one in Puerto Rico. A&E also has wholly owned operations in Belgium, Canada, Costa Rica, England, Guatemala, Honduras, Hong Kong, Ireland, Mexico and Malaysia. Through subsidiaries, A&E also owns four international manufacturing and/or distribution facilities. A&E also leases another 19 international facilities.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: American & Efird, Inc. Harris Teeter, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Thomas W. Dickson, Pres. Richard N. Brigden, VP-Finance Fred A. Jackson, Pres.-American & Efird, Inc.

Phone: 704-372-5404 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 1800 Two First Union Center, Charlotte, NC, 28282 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $2,487,370 1997 Sales: $2,300,089 1996 Sales: $2,142,501 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: RDK

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $46,772 1997 Profits: $47,731 1996 Profits: $42,802 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 21,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $270,000 Second Exec. Salary: $267,800

Bonus: $118,260 Bonus: $140,863

Extensive selection of products at competitive prices.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

470

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

RUSH ENTERPRISES INC Industry Group Code: 4413 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 5

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Rush Truck Centers Rush Construction Equipment D & D Farm & Ranch Supermarket

13,500-73,000 3,000-44,000

Profits: 6

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Free-standing Free-standing Free-standing

18 1

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Truck Centers, Retail Resale of new and used equipment Sales of John Deere equipment Farm and ranch supplies

Rush Enterprises, Inc. currently operates in two business segments: heavy-duty trucks and construction equipment. The company’s 19 truck centers are located in high truck traffic areas on or near major highways in Texas, California, Oklahoma, Colorado, and Louisiana. The company is the largest Peterbilt truck dealer in the United States. The construction equipment segment operates a full-service John Deere dealership that serves the Houston, Texas metropolitan and surrounding areas. The company plans to expand its existing full service dealerships in Shreveport and southern California, relocate and expand its existing parts/services facilities in southern California into a full service dealership, and relocate and expand its Houston, Texas and Tulsa, Oklahoma dealerships. A leasing location was recently opened in Pharr, Texas. The company also purchased Denver Peterbilt, Inc., which consists of two full service Peterbilt dealerships in Colorado. At its Houston location, the company is developing a one-stop equipment center where customers can purchase new John Deere or used construction equipment, lease and rent John Deere construction equipment, as well as purchase after-market parts and accessories. Additionally, the equipment center operates a fleet of field service technicians that perform repair and maintenance services at the customer’s location. The company acquired its first full-service equipment center in October of 1997. In addition, the company also acquired an interest in C. Jim Stewart & Stevenson, Inc., which consists of one full-service John Deere dealership in Houston.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Rush Truck Centers of Texas, Inc. Rush Truck Centers of Oklahoma, Inc. Rush Truck Centers of California, Inc. AiRush, Inc. Los Cuernos, Inc. Rush Truck Leasing, Inc. Rush Equipment Centers of Texas, Inc. Rush Adminstrative Services, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. W. Marvin Rush, CEO W. Marvin Rush, Pres. Martin A. Naegelin, Jr., VP/CFO David C. Orf, Sr. VP-Sales and Mktg. John Hiltabiddle, Controller Ralph West, VP-Leasing and Rental Oper. J. M. Spike Lowe, VP-Corporate Dev. Robin M. Rush, Exec. VP/Sec./Treas. Donald Teague, VP-California Oper. Daryl J. Gorup, Sr. VP-Dealership Oper.

Phone: 210-661-4511 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: P.O. Box 34630, San Antonio, TX, 78265 Internet Address: www.rushtruckcenters.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $612,785 1997 Sales: $399,369 1996 Sales: $343,661 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: RUSH

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $10,797 1997 Profits: $5,380 1996 Profits: $6,202 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,306

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $538,500 Second Exec. Salary: $170,500

Bonus: $230,000 Bonus: $75,000

Focus on trucks and on farm and ranch supplies.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

471

S & K FAMOUS BRANDS INC Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 41

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

S & K Famous Brands Menswear S & K Famous Brands Superstore S & K Famous Brands Outlet

3,500-4,500 4,500-6,500 3,000-4,000

Profits: 29

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

In-line/Mall In-line Outlet mall

233 1 incl. in 233

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel-Men's, Retail

S & K Famous Brands, Inc. is engaged in the retail sale of men's tailored clothing, furnishings, sportswear and accessories. The company sells in-season, first-quality men’s apparel, primarily with nationally recognized brand names, at a price generally less than that of department and specialty stores. This apparel includes a full line of men's suits, sportcoats, slacks, shirts, ties, sportswear and related accessories. The company recently refined its Premier Club preferred customer program by focusing on customers who are most responsive and loyal as well as by focusing on the promotional offers that have been most successful. The company has more than one million Premier Club members. S & K continues to refine its television marketing strategy and uses Baseball Hall of Famer Johnny Bench as its advertising and marketing spokesperson. The company currently operates all of its stores in the Eastern half of the U.S. and has plans to only open stores in this region.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES:

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Stuart C. Siegal, CEO Donald W. Colbert, COO/Pres. Robert E. Knowles, CFO/Exec. VP Laura S. O'Grady, VP-Advertising and Mktg. Raymond J. Pett, VP-MIS Harry S. Shendow, Sr. VP-Merch. Robert E. Knowles, Treas.

Phone: 804-346-2500 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 11100 West Broad St., P.O. Box 31800, Richmond, VA, 23294-1800 Internet Address: www.skmenswear.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $154,446 1998 Sales: $144,983 1997 Sales: $130,222 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: SKFB

1999 Profits: $5,486 1998 Profits: $4,981 1997 Profits: $4,610 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,945

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $498,400 Second Exec. Salary: $349,300

Bonus: $352,500 Bonus: $182,200

Men's apparel sold at 20% to 40% less than regular, full-priced department store prices.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

472

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

SAFEWAY INC Industry Group Code: 4451 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Profits: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Safeway Vons Pavilions Dominick's

7,200-60,000

$11,147,808 $11,147,808 $11,147,808 $11,147,808

In-line /Free-standing In-line/Free-standing In-line/Free-standing In-line/Free-standing

1,053 316 incl. in 1,053 113

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Grocery Stores/Supermarkets, Retail

Safeway, Inc. is one of the world's largest food retailers, operating 1,482 stores throughout the United States. The company also completed their acquisition of The Vons Companies, Inc. one of the largest supermarket chains in southern California, operating 315 stores. Safeway also holds a 49% interest in Casa Ley, S.A. de C.V., which operates food/variety, clothing and wholesale outlet stores in Mexico. In support of its private label program, the company operates 41 manufacturing plants; 29 in the U.S. and 13 in Canada. Safeway is continuing to consolidate its private-label manufacturing operations, closing 19 plants in past five years, though it plans to open a new plant to replace a previously closed facility. Other recent events for Safeway include a massive remodeling project; the company spent $829 million for the remodeling of 181 stores and the opening of 37 new stores in the last year. The company intends to spend $950 million for the remodeling of 200 stores and the opening of 40 to 45 stores in the upcoming year.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Safeway Casa Ley, S.A. de C.V. The Vons Companies, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Steven A. Burd, CEO Steven A. Burd, Pres. David G. Weed, CFO/Exec. VP Gary D. Smith, Sr. VP/Dir.-Mktg. Diane Peck, Sr. VP-Human Resources David T. Ching, CIO Donald P. Wright, Sr. VP-Real Estate and Engineering Larree M. Renda, Sr. VP-Corporate Retail Oper.

Phone: 925-467-3000 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 5918 Stoneridge Mall Road, Pleasanton, CA, 94588 Internet Address: www.safeway.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $24,484,200 1997 Sales: $22,483,800 1996 Sales: $17,269,000 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: SWY

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $806,700 1997 Profits: $557,400 1996 Profits: $460,600 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 170,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $750,000 Second Exec. Salary: $500,000

Bonus: $1,125,000 Bonus: $600,000

Name recognition/Strong presence in the western U.S.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 7 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: McCann-Erickson/San Francisco, San Francisco, CA

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

473

SAKS HOLDINGS INC Industry Group Code: 4521 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 9

Profits: 6

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Saks Fifth Avenue Main Street Stores Resort Off 5th Barney's of New York

30,000-50,000

Mall/Free-standing

54

25,977

Outlet Mall

43

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Department Stores, Retail Mail-order Outlet stores

Saks Fifth Avenue is recognized worldwide as a premier fashion retailer, offering the finest quality and latest style in women's and men's apparel. The company's stores primarily sell better, bridge and designer apparel, shoes, accessories, jewelry, cosmetics and fragrances as well as gift merchandise and children's apparel. Though most of its merchandise comes from the world's top fashion designers, private label brands are sold as well. A division of Saks, Inc. (formerly Proffit's), Saks Fifth Avenue additionally operates Main Street Stores, smaller versions of of Saks locations, and Resort stores located in upscale vacation spots. Saks is currently moving into new markets in pursuit of reaching its target customer: women over 35 and with a disposable income. In 1999, Saks, Inc. took control of Folio and Bullock & Jones direct marketing operations in addition to Saks Fifth Avenue. This move streamlined Saks Holdings, creating the Saks, Inc. division which includes only Saks Fifth Avenue, Main Street Stores and Resort stores.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Saks Fifth Avenue Main Street Stores Resort Folio Catalog

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Philip B. Miller, CEO Christina Johnson, COO Mark E. Hood, Sr. VP/CFO/Chief Acc. Officer Sheri Wilson-Gray, Exec. VP-Mktg. Gail Pisano, Exec. VP-Merch. Joan F. Krey, Sr. VP/Corporate Sec. Donald Watros, Exec. VP-Finance and Planning Ron Covin, Pres.-Off 5th Joseph Boitano, Sr. VP/General Merch. Mgr.

Phone: 212-940-4048 Fax: 212-940-4299 Toll-Free: Address: 12 East 49 Street, New York, NY, 10017 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $6,219,893 1998 Sales: $5,726,346 1997 Sales: $4,926,862 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: SKS

1999 Profits: $- 896 1998 Profits: $404,914 1997 Profits: $80,832 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 21,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $1,200,000 Second Exec. Salary: $775,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Recognized worldwide as a premier fashion retailer.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 3 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

474

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

SAMUELS JEWELERS INC Industry Group Code: 44831 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 8

Profits: 12

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Samuels Jewelers A. Hirsh & Son Jewelers Hatfield Jewelers Mission Jewelers Schubach Jewelers

577-3,690 577-3,690 577-3,690 577-3,690 577-3,690

$981,896 $981,896 $981,896 $981,896 $981,896

Mall Mall Mall Mall Mall

116 incl. in above number incl. in above number incl. in above number incl. in above number

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Jewelry, Retail

Samuels Jewelers, Inc. operates a chain of specialty retail jewelry stores generally located in regional shopping malls throughout the southeastern, southwestern and midwestern portions of the United States. The company's fine jewelry items are offered at a wide variety of prices and styles, with a principal interest placed on gemstone and diamond jewelry. The company currently operates 116 retail stores, all of which operate under one of several names. Names include Samuels Jewelers, A. Hirsh & Son Jewelers, Hatfield Jewelers, Mission Jewelers and Schubach Jewelers. The company does, however, plan to place the Samuels Jewelers banner on all of its stores during the coming fiscal years. After emerging from Chapter 11 Bankruptcy protection in 1992 as Barry Jewelers, the company returned to Chapter 11 Bankruptcy protection in 1997 before emerging again under the Samuels Jewelers name in 1998. The company experienced a $22 million net increase during fiscal 1998, and enjoyed a $12.7 million sales growth figure during that same fiscal year, with a $113.8 million sales figure.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Samuels Jewelers A. Hirsh & Son Jewelers Hatfield Jewelers Mission Jewelers Schubach Jewelers

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Randy N. McCullough, Pres./CEO Chad C. Haggar, Sr. VP- Oper. E. Peter Healy, CFO/Exec. VP/Sec. Bill R. Edgel, VP- Mktg. Paul Hart, VP-MIS Chad C. Haggar, VP-Oper. E. Peter Healy, Treas.

Phone: 512-369-1400 Fax: 512-369-1527 Toll-Free: Address: 2914 Montopolis Drive, Suite 200, Austin, TX, 78741 Internet Address: www.mission-jewelers.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $125,189 1997 Sales: $144,346 1996 Sales: $156,153 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: SMJW

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-22,168 1997 Profits: $-45,968 1996 Profits: $-2,783 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,007

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $325,000 Second Exec. Salary: $300,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Wide variety of fine jewelry.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

475

SANTA ISABEL Industry Group Code: 4451 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales:

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Santa Isabel

Profits:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

$9,229,545

Number of Stores: 88

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Grocery Stores/Supermarkets, Retail Hypermarkets

Santa Isabel S.A. operates a chain of 88 supermarkets across South America, with 60 locations spanning throughout Chile, 20 locations in Peru, six in Paraguay and two in Ecuador. Behind number one ranked Distribucion y Servicio D&S, Santa Isabel S.A. is the number two ranked supermarket chain in Chile. The company's supermarkets offer a wide variety of grocery products, including private-label brands such as Elmi and Cinco Continentes. From fresh fruit to meats, Santa Isabel supermarkets carry all that one would need. Recently, the company has decided to additionally enter the hypermarket business, operating about 10 $tock stores throughout South America. A joint venture between Velox Investment and international supermarket giant Royal Ahold, Disco Ahold International Holdings, owns about 65% of Santa Isabel S.A. The company experienced a 4.3% sales growth in fiscal 1997, achieving an overall sales figure of $812.2 million for that same year. The company's net growth increased by 72.9%, as net income reached 47 million for fiscal 1997.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Santa Isabel Elmi Cinco Continentes $tock

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Eduardo R. Orteu Iglesias, CEO, General Mgr. Mauricio Varela Vial, CFO

Phone: +56-32-26-1000 Fax: +56-32-22-0807 Toll-Free: Address: Errazuriz 1834, Valparaiso, Chile, Internet Address: www.santa-isabel.cl Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $ 1997 Sales: $ 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: ISA

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $ 1997 Profits: $ 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 12,182

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $ Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Rapidly-growing, South America-based hypermarket firm.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International: y

476

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

SCHOOL SPECIALTY INC Industry Group Code: 4532 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 7

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 7

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Catalog sales

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Office Supplies, Retail Classroom and art supplies Instructional materials Educational games Physical education and audiovisual equipment Indoor and outdoor equipment

The largest distributor of non-textbook educational supplies and furniture for grades pre-kindergarten through 12 in the United States, School Specialty, Inc. provides a comprehensive offering of high-quality educational supplies. These supplies along with furniture are offered to school districts, administrators and teachers through the company's widely distributed catalog. Among products distributed are general school supplies, classroom and art supplies, furniture, educational games, instructional materials, physical education, and audiovisual equipment and indoor and outdoor equipment. The company's specialty brands include Childcraft Education, an assortment of early childhood projects, Sax Arts & Crafts, art instruction materials and Gresswell, library-related products and services. Most of the company's projects are made by third-party manufacturers. The company has acquired 17 companies since May 1996 in order to broaden its geographic presence and product offering. The company utilizes its 290 sales representatives and its School Specialty general supply and furniture catalog to focus on procurement officials at the state, regional and local levels. The company additionally focuses on teachers and individual instructors with the same catalog. School Specialty believes that the demand for timely order fulfillment at value-minded prices creates a prime spot in the marketplace for the company, and that its fulfillment of this demand and the quality of its services and prices set it apart from the competition.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: School Specialty Re-Print Childcraft Education Sax Arts & Crafts Gresswell

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Daniel P. Spalding, CEO David J. Vander Zanden, Pres./COO Donald J. Noskowiak, Exec. VP/CFO

Phone: 920-734-2756 Fax: 800-242-3432 Toll-Free: Address: 1000 N. Bluemound Dr., Appleton, WI, 54914 Internet Address: www.schoolspecialty.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $310,455 1997 Sales: $191,746 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: SCHS

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $5,239 1997 Profits: $8,132 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,220

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: 1 Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $212,104 Second Exec. Salary: $157,646

Bonus: $ Bonus: $154,633

Widely distributed catalog.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

477

SCHULTZ SAV O STORES INC Industry Group Code: 4451 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 30

Profits: 21

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Piggly Wiggly

19,980-54,850

$5,638,198

In-line/Free-standing

68-franchised; 18 companyowned

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Grocery Stores/Supermarkets, Retail Wholesale distribution

Schultz Sav-O Stores, Inc. distributes food and related products through wholesale and retail operations. The company franchises 68 and owns 18 retail supermarkets under the Piggly Wiggly name in eastern Wisconsin and northeastern Illinois. Schultz is the primary supplier to its stores and also serves as a wholesaler to a number of small, independently operated retail supermarkets in its market area. The company also operates the Springtime Bottling plant which produces a full line of carbonated soft drinks, fruit drinks and bottled water for its own distribution. The company recently expanded its Piggly Wiggly operations to include an additional 128 counties in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Michigan and Illinois. The company's Piggly Wiggly stores experienced same store sales increases as the company completed the introduction of the Piggly Wiggly Preferred Club Card, which allows the customer to receive automatic savings and point-of-sale coupons, in addition to doubling as a check-cashing and video rental identification card.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Piggly Wiggly Piggly Wiggly Preferred Club Card

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. James H. Dickelman, CEO James H. Dickelman, Pres. John H. Dahly, CFO/Exec. VP/Sec. Michael R. Houser, Exec. VP-Mktg. Michael R. Houser, Exec. VP-Merch. Frank D. Welch, VP-Engineering William K. Jacobson, Sr. VP-Retail Oper. Kenneth S. Folberg, VP-Logistics and Labor Relations

Phone: 920-457-4433 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 2215 Union Avenue, P. O. Box 419, Sheboygan, WI, 53082-0419 Internet Address: www.shopthepig.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $484,885 1998 Sales: $473,006 1997 Sales: $453,921 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: SAVO

1999 Profits: $8,518 1998 Profits: $7,637 1997 Profits: $6,465 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,700

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $275,000 Second Exec. Salary: $145,520

Bonus: $96,759 Bonus: $51,202

Strong franchise system.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

478

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

SEARS ROEBUCK & CO Industry Group Code: 4521 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Sears Sears HomeLife Sears Hardware Sears Dealer Sears Auto Centers/NTB The Great Indoors

86,000 30,000 20,000-40,000 5,000

Profits: 2

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Mall

845 128 265 653 franchised 789 plus 347 NTB 1

Free-standing Free-standing in Sears dept. stores Free-standing

100,000

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Department Stores, Retail Furniture stores Proprietary credit card services Auto parts Tools Appliances and electronics

Sears, Roebuck and Co. is one of the world’s leading retailers, with a network of 845 full-line stores, more than 2,000 specialty stores in America and 234 stores internationally serving nearly 60 million households. With more than 30 million active accounts with an average balance of around $1,000, the company operates the largest proprietary credit card in the retail industry-larger than that of the next 10 retailers combined. Sears' core customer is the middle-income female, head of her household and aged 25 to 54. The company recently introduced a 150,000 square foot prototype store called The Great Indoors to serve as the woman shopper’s singe destination for home decorating and remodeling projects. Sears additionally intends to open three similar stores in the next year. The company’s newest marketing initiatives are focused on its direct-mail program, with over 150 million catalogs mailed yearly, and its e-commerce website, currently offering over 3,500 Craftsman products, a full selection of appliances and 4 million appliance parts from PartsDirect. The company continues to consistently increase its store base and plans to open 18 to 25 full-line stores, 20 to 30 Orchard Supply Hardware and Sears Hardware Stores, and 170 locally owned and operated dealer stores.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Sears Sears HomeLife Sears Hardware Sears Dealer Stores Orchard Supply Hardware Tire America stores Western Auto Parts America

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Arthur C. Martinez, CEO/Pres. James R. Clifford, COO Alan J. Lacy, CFO Mark A. Cohen, Exec. VP-Mktg. John T. Sloan, Sr. VP-Human Resources Gerald N. Miller, Sr. VP/CIO Robert L. Mettler, Pres.-Merch. Arthur C. Martinez, Pres. Alan J. Lacy, Pres.-Credit

The company has a strong workforce diversity program and has promoted large numbers of women and minorities to important posts. Sears also offers performance awards, stock option grants, a discount stock purchase program and workforce training through Sears University, where 15,000 managers participate in executive and management development programs and more than 150,000 associates participate in similar correspondence courses.

Phone: 847-286-2500 Fax: 847-286-8310* Toll-Free: Address: 3333 Beverly Road, Hoffman Estates, IL, 60179 Internet Address: www.sears.com Notes/Other Info: *Mgr. of College Relations

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $41,322,000 1998 Sales: $41,296,000 1997 Sales: $38,064,000 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: S

1999 Profits: $1,048,000 1998 Profits: $1,188,000 1997 Profits: $1,271,000 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 327,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $1,150,000 Second Exec. Salary: $707,000

Bonus: $980,088 Bonus: $204,864

Name recognition. Good growth from new inner-city stores and new specialty stores.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 3 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 2 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Ogilvy & Mather, Chicago, IL; Mendoza, Dillon & Asociados, Inc., Newport Beach, CA; Focus Media, Santa Monica, CA; Young & Rubicam, Inc., New York, NY; Burrell Communications Group Inc., Chicago, IL

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

479

SEAWAY FOOD TOWN INC Industry Group Code: 4451 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 27

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Food Town Supermarkets Food Town Plus Supermarkets Pharm Kash N Karry

Profits: 22

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

$8,931,114 $8,931,114 $8,931,114 $8,931,114

14 30 25 1

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Grocery Stores/Supermarkets, Retail Drug stores

Seaway Food Town, Inc. is a leading regional supermarket chain located predominantly in the northwest, central Ohio and southeastern Michigan. The company also operates deep discount drugstores that sell merchandise similar to that sold in a conventional supermarket, but with a greater emphasis on non-food items and package size of such items. The company currently operates 14 Food Town Supermarkets, 30 Food Town Plus Supermarkets, 1 Kash N Karry Supermarket, and 25 deep discount drugstores under the name of Pharm. The company recently acquired two supermarkets in Michigan. Food Town Supermarkets are conventional supermarkets that provide smaller towns and neighborhoods with traditional full-service supermarket convenience. Food Town Plus combination and marketplace stores are designed to serve the more diverse demands of larger metropolitan areas. These stores specialize in one-stop shopping, providing a wider variety of merchandise and value-added services such as prepared foods-to-go, ATMs, video rentals and parcel mailing. Pharm drugstores specialize in everyday low prices on a wide range of core and special-purchase merchandise. In early fiscal 1998, the company opened the first of what is expected to be several discount stores in a location in which on of the company’s conventional supermarkets formerly operated.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Seaway Food Town, Inc. Food Town Food Town Plus Pharm

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Richard B. Lott, Pres. Richard B. Lott, Pres. Waldo E. Yeager, CFO Charles Baumgartner, VP-Human Relations David J. Walrod, Exec. VP-Oper. Waldo E. Yeager, Treas.

Phone: 419-893-9401 Fax: Toll-Free: 800-448-8643 (fax on demand) Address: 1020 Ford Street, Maumee, OH, 43537 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $625,178 1997 Sales: $608,373 1996 Sales: $597,462 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: SEWY

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $6,984 1997 Profits: $6,412 1996 Profits: $5,505 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 2,405

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $300,000 Second Exec. Salary: $219,519

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Leading regional supermarket/Has an extensive transportation fleet.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

480

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

SERVICE MERCHANDISE COMPANY INC Industry Group Code: 45291 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 4

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Service Merchandise Service Select Service Merchandise Superstore

27,000 11,000-14,000 40,000

Profits: 20

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

In-line/Free-standing/Mall In-line/Free-standing/Mall Free-standing

350 5 1

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Jewelry, Retail Housewares Small appliances Giftware Silverware Cameras Luggage Radios

Service Merchandise, with 361 stores in 34 states, is a leading retailer of fine jewelry and home products. Aside from at its locations, customers may purchase products through mail order, telephone order, or via the company’s internet website. The company’s stores are divided into thematic worlds with accordingly arranged product displays. The company is currently testing a Best of Service concept with is a scaled-down 10,000 square foot format that carries the full line of jewelry and a limited number of top-selling products from the home product categories. The company also implemented a new private label credit card program. Most stores are equipped with Service Express, a user-friendly computer which allows customers to verify item availability, place their order, tender payment via credit card, update their address and designate an item as a gift registry purchase. With the recent opening of the company’s new fine jewelry, gift and home superstore concept in Florida, the company will also introduce a whole new home decorative and gift solution. A clear point of difference for Service Merchandise Superstores will be the integration of products from independent departments like electronics, appliances, furniture, and accessories into total lifestyle settings. The company will also build on the successful test of its new, edited assortment and smaller retail concept, known as Service Select, with the opening of five new stores. Service Merchandise is currently operating under Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Service Express Service Merchandise Superstore Service Select

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Gary M. Witkin, CEO Gary M. Witkin, Pres. S. Cusano, Exec. VP/CFO Chuck Kremers, Sr. VP-Mktg and Advertising Linda K. Bosler, VP-Human Resources Charles Septer, Sr. VP-Jewelry Merch. Harold Mulet, Sr. VP-Stores

Phone: 615-660-6000 Fax: Toll-Free: 800-759-2793 Address: P.O. Box 24600, Nashville, TN, 37027 Internet Address: www.servicemerchandise.com Notes/Other Info: CompuServe access GO SVCMER

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $3,169,525 1997 Sales: $3,662,778 1996 Sales: $3,955,016 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: SME

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-110,307 1997 Profits: $-91,600 1996 Profits: $39,330 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 23,409

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $803,468 Second Exec. Salary: $773,614

Bonus: $ Bonus: $108,150

Restructuring/Closing 60 slow-performing stores.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Leo Burnett Company, Inc., Chicago, IL

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

481

SHARPER IMAGE CORPORATION Industry Group Code: 45322 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 4

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

The Sharper Image Sharper Image Design Sharper Image airport shops Sharper Imgage Outlet

2,200-5,000 1,000-1,200

Profits: 5

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Mall/In-line Mall/In-line Airport Outlet mall

93 3 2 3

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Electronics, Audio, and Appliance Stores-Retail Gift products Mail-order

Sharper Image Corporation is a specialty retailer, introducing and selling a wide array of entertaining, innovative products through its Sharper Image stores, mail order catalog, Internet site and other marketing channels. The company's assortment of gadgets, ranged in price from $15 to $8,000, are sold in over 90 stores throughout the United States and five additional countries. Two airport stores also exist, as the company additionally advertises in airline magazines. From innovative housewares, personal care products, electronics and fun gadgets to fitness accessories, each of the company's products are well known for uniqueness and innovative quality. Besides the traditional Sharper Image stores, the company exercises three additonal retail formats: Sharper Image Design stores, Sharper Image Outlet stores and Sharper Image airport shops. Recently, the company has been continuing to test a new marketing concept, The Sharper Image Home Collection. Sharper Image Corporation recently closed three underperforming Sharper Image stores at the maturity of their leases, while planning to open four to eight new stores in the coming fiscal year. The company's management plans to expand by expanding the company's location base by 10% to 15% by fiscal 2001.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Sharper Image Sharper Image SPA Sharper Image Home Collection The Sharper Image Catalog Sharper Image Design Stores Sharper Image Outlet Stores

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Richard J. Thalheimer, CEO Barry Gilbert, COO Tracy Wan, Sr. VP/CFO Shannon King, Sr. VP- Merch. Craig Womack, Pres./Chief Admin. Officer

Phone: 415-445-6000 Fax: 415-445-1574 Toll-Free: Address: 650 Davis Street, San Francisco, CA, 94111 Internet Address: www.sharperimage.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $243,114 1998 Sales: $216,815 1997 Sales: $210,245 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: SHRP

1999 Profits: $4,602 1998 Profits: $ 593 1997 Profits: $-4,345 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

780

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $479,134 Second Exec. Salary: $325,000

Bonus: $150,000 Bonus: $14,000

Offers unique gift and entertainment products.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Novus Marketing, Minneapolis, MN

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

482

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

SHERWIN WILLIAMS COMPANY (THE) Industry Group Code: 3255 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store:

Sherwin-Williams Sherwin-Williams-automotive

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

In-line Free-standing/In-line

2,254 263

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Paint, Retail Automotive finishing products

Founded 133 years ago, The Sherwin-Williams Company operates as a retailer of Sherwin Williams labeled architectural coatings, industrial finishes and associates supplies through company-run paint and wallcovering stores in 50 states, Canada and Latin America. The company additionally manufactures and sells coatings such as Dutch Boy, Pratt & Lambert, Martin-Senour, DupliColor, Krylon, Thompson’s and Minwax. These brands, on top of private label brands, are sold to independent dealers, mass merchandisers and home improvement centers. The company’s coatings are produced for a number of original equipment manufacturers in a number of industries and special purpose coatings for the automotive aftermarket, industrial maintenance and traffic paint markets. For 21 consecutive years, Sherwin-Williams has reported increased earnings growth. Recently, the company continues the consolidation of distribution facilities into more strategically located centers and raised the efficiency ratio of all distribution centers, enabling the company to practice a more efficient form of business. Sherwin-Williams plans to expand both its location base and product line, allowing it to continue to serve as the leader in the paint industry. The company is also currently enhancing its computer systems in order to make its operations more efficient and integrated.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Paint Stores Segment Coatings Segment Consumer Brands Division Automotive Division Transportation Service Division Diversified Brands Division Dutch Boy Pratt & Lambert

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. John G. Breen, CEO Thomas A. Commes, Pres./COO Larry J. Pitorak, Sr. VP-Finance/CFO Richard M. Wilson, Exec. VP-Sales and Mktg. (Consumer group) Thomas E. Hopkins, VP-Human Resources Jane L. Haag, VP- Info. Services John L. Ault, VP/Corp. Controller Richard M. Weaver, VP-Admin. Conway G. Ivy, VP-Corp. Planning and Dev. Larry J. Pitorak, Treas.

Phone: 216-566-2000 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 101 Prospect Ave., N.W., Cleveland, OH, 44115 Internet Address: www.sherwin-williams.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $4,934,430 1997 Sales: $4,881,103 1996 Sales: $4,132,879 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: SHW

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $272,684 1997 Profits: $260,614 1996 Profits: $229,157 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 24,822

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $962,312 Second Exec. Salary: $604,075

Bonus: $740,000 Bonus: $475,000

Has been in business since 1866/Well-known in its market niche.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 3 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

483

SHOE CARNIVAL INC Industry Group Code: 4482 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 7

Profits: 5

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Shoe Carnival

6,600-26,500

$2,523,937

In-line/3 in mall

112

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Shoes/Accessories, Retail

Shoe Carnival, Inc. is a high volume, value-oriented retailer of family footwear operating predominately in the Midwest, South and Southeast regions of the United States. The company’s goal is to establish itself as one of the nation’s leading family footwear retailers and the dominant footwear retailer in each market it serves. The company provides a selection and variety of footwear normally associated with a category killer superstore in an exciting retail environment. The company currently operates 112 stores, each offering a wide selection of both name brand and private label merchandise. Contests, games, neon signs, flashing lights and up-tempo music produce an energized shopping atmosphere. Shoe Carnival recently expanded the number of styles and brands most desired by customers and eliminated those no longer in demand. This new focus enables the company to forge strong relationships with key branded vendors.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES:

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Mark L. Lemond, CEO Mark L. Lemond, Pres. W. Kerry Jackson, CFO/VP Susan A. Hirsch, VP-Human Resources Larry L. Linville, VP-MIS Clifton E. Sifford, Sr. VP/General Merch. Mgr. Timothy T. Baker, Sr. VP-Store Oper.

Phone: 812-867-6471 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 8233 Baumgart Road, Evansville, IN, 47711 Internet Address: www.shoecarnival.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $280,157 1998 Sales: $246,520 1997 Sales: $233,945 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: SCVL

1999 Profits: $10,227 1998 Profits: $7,391 1997 Profits: $4,140 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,097

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $528,942 Second Exec. Salary: $350,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $225,000

Larger than traditional shoe stores/Unique carnival-like atmosphere with bright lights and an in-store barker.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

484

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

SHOE PAVILION INC Industry Group Code: 4482 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 10

Profits: 7

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Shoe Pavilion Shoe Pavilion's Designer Shoe Warehouse

3,000-14,000

$810,246

In-line/Outlet mall

69

TYPES OF BUSINESS: Shoes/Accessories, Retail

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES:

Shoe Pavillion, Inc. operates as a discount footwear retailer. With 69 Shoe Pavillion and Shoe Pavillion’s Designer Shoe Warehouse stores scattered throughout California, Washington and Oregon, the company sells shoes at 30% to 70% off designer prices. The company is able to do this by securing discounts from the purchase of manufacturers’ overruns and over-orders. Additionally, Shoe Pavillion, Inc. is able to commit to its low prices strategy by buying shoes directly from Italian, Brazilian and Chinese factories and purchasing shoes during offpeak production periods. Dexter, Fila, Florsheim, Naturalizer, Reebok and Rockport are included in the company’s name-brand product line.

Shoe Pavilion Shoe Pavilion's Designer Shoe Warehouse

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Dmitry Beinus, CEO Robert R. Hall, VP/COO Gary A. Schwartz, VP/CFO Keith C. Gossett, Jr., VP- Oper. Linda C. Hickey, VP- Admin.

Phone: 510-970-9775 Fax: 510-970-9784 Toll-Free: Address: 3200-F Regatta Blvd., Richmond, CA, 94804 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $55,907 1997 Sales: $45,074 1996 Sales: $30,315 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: SHOE

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $3,393 1997 Profits: $3,464 1996 Profits: $1,390 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

241

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $250,000 Second Exec. Salary: $145,192

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Low-price strategy/Good regional presence on West Coast.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

485

SHOP AT HOME INC Industry Group Code: 4541A Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 3

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Shop At Home

Profits: 2

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

$744,578 per TV station

Number of Stores: 135 TV stations nationwide

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

TV Shopping Collectors

The Shop At Home Network is a nationally distributed electronic specialty retailer dedicated to exceeding customer expectations through the delivery of quality products. The company is the nation’s second oldest and fastest growing network in the home shopping industry. Shop At Home is also the 19th largest broadcaster in the country. Shop at Home offers unique collectible items, sports memorabilia, collectible knives and coins as well as jewelry, electronics, and health and fitness products. The company currently offers online shopping through its interactive website. In addition, Shop at Home also owns and operates five television stations: WMFP (Boston), KZJL (Houston), WRAY (Raleigh), WOAC (Cleveland), and KCNS (San Francisco). The company is also working with Oracle Corporation and iXL, Inc. to launch collectibles.com as the premier online community for collectible shopping and information. Shop at Home entered an agreement with EchoStar Communications Corp. to broadcast the shopping network on EchoStar’s DISH Network beginning February 8, 1999. This venture helps expand the company’s audience and provide a larger promotional platform for marketing the next phase of its Internet plans. In addition, the company has also entered an agreement through which the Network began part time carriage on Primestar, Cablevision Systems Corp., and InterMedia Partners. Primestar is the country’s second largest Direct Broadcast Satellite provider.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Collectibles.com SAH Acquistion Corporation II KCNS WRAY WOAC Broadcast, Cable, and Satellite Technologies, Inc. Urban Broadcast Sytems, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Kent E. Lillie, Pres./CEO Tim Engle III, Exec. VP/COO James Bauchiero, Exec. VP/CFO Shannon McGuffin, VP-Sales and Mktg. Linda O. Ford, VP-Human Resources H. Wayne Lambert, VP-Info. Tech. Henry I. Shapiro, VP-Merch. Kent H. Gratteau, Jr., VP-Broadcasting and Engineering Kent H. Gratteau, VP-Oper. Teresa M. McDowell, VP-Call Center Oper. Joseph Nawy, VP-Finance

Phone: 615-263-8000 Fax: 615-263-8084 Toll-Free: Address: P.O. Box 305249, Nashville, TN, 37230-5249 Internet Address: www.shopathomeonline.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $100,518 1997 Sales: $68,832 1996 Sales: $40,675 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: SATH

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $1,513 1997 Profits: $1,556 1996 Profits: $-1,405 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

400

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $190,000 Second Exec. Salary: $129,308

Bonus: $124,523 Bonus: $15,560

Viewable by up to 34 million households throughout North America.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 3 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

486

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

SHOPKO STORES INC Industry Group Code: 45291 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 6

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

ShopKo ProVantage Health Services, Inc.

74,000-99,000

Profits: 7

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

In-line In-line

147 incl. in above number

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Discount Stores, Retail Pharmacy mail service Prescription benefit management services Optical center Claims processing activities

ShopKo Stores, Inc. is a specialty discount retailer that provides general merchandise, retail pharmaceutical and optical services through its retail stores. The company’s 147 retail stores and four free-standing optical centers are operated in 17 states in the northern half of the U.S. ShopKo also provides customer prescription benefit management services, pharmacy mail service, vision benefit management services, health care knowledge through technology and clinical support services through its subsidiary ProVantage, Inc. The company believes that it’s ShopKo Stores offer leading brand names in its merchandise lines and subjects its private label merchandise to independent testing and certification, which allows the company to deliver a better and more consistent product. The company’s ProVantage subsidiary has grown in the past three years from a $14 million mail order pharmacy to a health benefit management business with sales in excess of $500 million.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: ProVantage, Inc. ProVantage Prescription Benefit Management ProVantage Health Services ProVantage Pharmacy Benefit Management ProVantage Vision Benefit Management Cabot Noble Phar-Mor

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Dale P. Kramer, CEO Dale P. Kramer, Pres. Jeffrey A. Jones, CFO/Sr. VP Rodney D. Lawrence, Sr. VP-Store Mktg./Store Planning Paul A. Burrows, CIO William J. Podany, Exec. VP/Pres./COO-Retail Stores Div.

Phone: 920-497-2211 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 700 Pilgrim Way, Green Bay, WI, 54304 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $2,993,776 1998 Sales: $2,459,603 1997 Sales: $3,346,465 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: SKO

1999 Profits: $55,636 1998 Profits: $48,845 1997 Profits: $44,946 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 21,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $592,308 Second Exec. Salary: $492,308

Bonus: $720,000 Bonus: $500,000

Merged with Phar-Mor to create a new company called Cabot Noble.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 7 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Bozell Worldwide, Chicago, Chicago, IL

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

487

SHOPPING.COM Industry Group Code: 4541 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 17

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 4

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

On-line Only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Online Shopping Mall

Shopping.com is an Internet-based electronic retailer, or E-retailer, that specializes in marketing a broad range of products and services at wholesale prices to consumers and trade customers alike. The company, which features over one million brand-name products and services, integrates order placement, secure payment verification, inventory control, order fulfillment and vendor invoicing into its web site. Product categories available at Shopping.com include computers & software, downloadable software, consumer electronics, office furniture and products, books, music, CD’s and cassettes, musical instruments, movies, sheet music, cigars, apparel and accessories, lighters, housewares, gourmet foods, baby & nursery products, automobile accessories, auto electronics, auto parts, bath products, hardware, kitchen, lawn & garden, lighting, patio furniture, plumbing, heating & cooling, storage & organization, tools, luggage, travel bags, marine supplies, bicycles, games & activities, golf & sporting goods, toys & hobbies, video games, pet supplies, bath & body care, fragrances, medical equipment and supplies, collectibles, print & posters, gifts and everything else under the sun. Shopping.com believes its edge over traditional malls includes convenience, selection, ease of purchase and the fact that Shopping.com is open 24 hours a day. In 1999, the company was acquired by Compaq Computer Corporation for $220 million.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Shopping.com Compaq Computer Corp.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. John H. Markley, CEO John H. Markley, Pres. Kristine E. Webster, CFO/Sr. VP Mark S. Winkler, Chief Tech. Officer Mark S. Winkler, CIO Pat DeMicco, Sr., Exec. VP-Merch.

Phone: 949-640-4393 Fax: 714-640-4374 Toll-Free: Address: 2101 E. Coast Hwy., Garden Level, Corona Del Mar, CA, 92625 Internet Address: www.shopping.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $ 851 1997 Sales: $ 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker:

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-5,522 1997 Profits: $- 202 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

67

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $133,177 Second Exec. Salary: $116,200

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Offers everything under the sun.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

488

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

SKYMALL INC Industry Group Code: 45411 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 26

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

SkyMall Shopping Center

50,000

Profits: 16

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

In-line

1

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

In-Flight Mall, Retail Mail-order Internet sales

SkyMall, Inc., the largest in-flight catalog company in the United States, makes high-quality products and services available to more than 400 million airline passengers per year. The company markets and sells a broad selection of premium merchandise provided by participating merchants. Skymall has exclusive agreements to place its catalogs in aircraft seat pockets on 16 airlines, including America West, Continental, Delta, Southwest, TWA, United and US Airways. The company has signed an agreement with a leading Internet database technology provider to offer SkyMall customers personalized recommendations based on individual purchasing behavior. This technology can be provided to all customers whether they order over the Internet or through the telephone. Skymall also formed a new subsidiary of the company, skymall.com, that will operate the company’s existing e-commerce business. Skymall is featured on the leading online communities, theglobe.com and MyFamily.com. In addition, the company’s electronic mall will be marketed to various high-traffic Web sites through a new arrangement with an order processing facility. Skymall has also acquired Durham & Company, a logo merchandise catalog and recognition jewelry company. Durham publishes logo merchandise catalogs and supplies high-quality recognition jewelry and related products to a number of blue-chip organizations, including airlines.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Durham & Company Skymall.com America West Continental Airlines Delta Airlines Southwest Airlines TWA Airlines United Airlines U.S. Airways

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Robert M. Worsley, CEO Robert M. Worsley, Pres. Mark S. Schneider, VP-Mktg. Martin F. Smith, VP-Merch. John H. Hurley, VP-Oper. Christine A. Aguilera, VP-Business Dev.

Phone: 602-254-9777 Fax: Toll-Free: 1-800-SKY-MALL Address: 1520 East Pima Street, Phoenix, AZ, 85034 Internet Address: www.skymall.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $66,257 1997 Sales: $60,818 1996 Sales: $43,685 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: SKYM

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $2,551 1997 Profits: $2,571 1996 Profits: $2,188 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

323

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $190,000 Second Exec. Salary: $125,000

Bonus: $28,500 Bonus: $16,000

Largest inflight catalog company in the U.S.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

489

SMART & FINAL INC Industry Group Code: 45291 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 16

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Smart & Final Smart & Final Plus Cash & Carry Smart & Final del Noroeste American Foodservice Distributors

13,000-34,000 20,000-25,000 13,000-34,000 13,000-34,000

Profits: 17

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line

170 1 39 6

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Warehouse Clubs & Superstores-Retail Foodservice distributors

Smart & Final, Inc. is one of the nation’s largest warehouse grocery chains. The company currently operates over 216 stores primarily in California as well as in Arizona, Nevada, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Florida and Mexico. In addition, the company operates two foodservice distribution businesses located in South Florida and Northern California. Smart & Final’s warehouse grocery stores stock 11,000 items in large institutional sizes and quantities. The stores primarily serve food operators such as independent restaurants and caterers, as well as small businesses, clubs and organizations. Recent developments for the company include the introduction of the Smart & Final Plus format stores which are much larger than standard stores; the company has plans to open 35 new Smart & Final Plus stores by 2001. The company also recently completed the acquisition of 39 Cash & Carry wholesale grocery stores in the Pacific Northwest; the stores are currently operating for resale businesses only.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Smart & Final Stores Corporation American Foodservice Distributors Port Stockton Food Distributors, Inc. Henry Lee Company Casino Frozen Foods Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Ross E. Roeder, CEO Martin A. Lynch, CFO/Exec. VP Gerald L. Good, Exec. VP-Mktg./Concept Dev. James E. Robinson, VP-Human Resources William E. Macfarlane, Sr. VP/CIO Timothy M. Snee, VP-Buying and Merch. Donald G. Alvarado, Sr. VP-Law and Dev. Suzanne Mullins, Sr. VP-Oper. Abdul S. Mirza, VP-Acc.

Phone: 213-589-1054 Fax: 213-589-4283 Toll-Free: Address: 4700 South Boyle Ave., Los Angeles, CA, 90058 Internet Address: www.smartnfinal.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $1,661,629 1998 Sales: $166,162 1997 Sales: $145,302 1996 Sales: $130,256 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: SMF

1999 Profits: $-8,659 1998 Profits: $-8,695 1997 Profits: $-6,636 1996 Profits: $-24,334 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 5,447

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $1,229,913 Second Exec. Salary: $642,612

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Continues to experience significant sales growth/Positions itself competitively by offering convenience, aggressive pricing, a wide assortment, and a high level of customer service.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Italia/Gal Advertising, Los Angeles, CA

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International: y

490

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

SMART CHOICE AUTOMOTIVE GROUP Industry Group Code: 4411 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 9

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

First Choice Stuart Nissan Stuart Volvo Eckler's

9.25 acres 9 acres

Profits: 9

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

$95,384,827

Free-standing Free-standing Free-standing

22 total

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Auto Dealers, Retail

Smart Choice Automotive Group, Inc. is an integrated retailer of new and used cars and related services, focusing primarily on selling reliable, quality used cars to its buy here-pay here customers. Buy here-pay here customers are typically persons who have limited credit histories, low incomes or past credit problems. The company owns and operates one of the largest chains of buy here-pay here used car dealerships in the southeastern United States, with 22 used car locations throughout Florida. Smart Choice Automotive Group also owns and operates two new car dealerships that sell midpriced new cars, and late model used cars to more creditworthy customers. The company also provides financing for its buy here-pay here customers, manufactures and retails licensed Corvette parts and accessories through its subsidiary, Eckler Industries, Inc., and provides training and insurance services to automobile dealers. Recently, the company’s used car operations and its subsidiary Eckler Industries were combined. First Choice Auto Finance grew from two used car stores to twenty-three used car and two new car stores. The company has expanded with a number of acquisitions, including Strata Holdings, Inc., Ready Finance, Inc., Roman Fedo, Inc., Fedo Finance, Inc., Jack Winters Enterprises, Inc., and B&B Enterprises, Inc.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Liberty Finance Company Eckler Industries, Inc. Ready Finance, Inc. B&B Enterprises, Inc. Jack Winters Enterprises, Inc. Roman Fedo, Inc. Fedo Finance, Inc. Strata Holdings, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Gary R. Smith, Pres./CEO Ronald W. Anderson, Exec. VP/COO Joseph E. Mohr, Exec. VP/CFO Robert J. Downing, Sr. VP/Chief Legal Officer

Phone: 407-269-0834 Fax: 407-383-8822 Toll-Free: Address: 5200 S. Washington Avenue, Titusville, FL, 32780 Internet Address: www.smartchoiceauto.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $95,385 1997 Sales: $95,400 1996 Sales: $11,100 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: SMCH

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-6,871 1997 Profits: $-18,649 1996 Profits: $- 704 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

386

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $217,851 Second Exec. Salary: $153,263

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Rapid expansion through acquisitions.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

491

SOFTWARE SPECTRUM Industry Group Code: 45411 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 8

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 14

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Mail-order and on-line

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Computer and Software Products Computer accessories and services Software licensing services Technology support Business software products

Software Spectrum, a leading global supplier of technology services and personal computer software, services Fortune 500 and Global 500 companies, thousands of mid-sized customers from a variety of industries, government and academic market segments. Since its inception in 1983, Software Spectrum has expanded its sales locations, operations centers and Technology Services Group to include worldwide markets throughout North America, Europe and Asia/Pacific. The company is focusing on creating and pioneering innovative services and solutions designed to improve business operations, and prides itself on providing its customers with a broad selection of computing merchandise. Currently, Software Spectrum continues to mature and develop its North American sites, as well as add several new locations in selected worldwide markets throughout Europe and Asia/Pacific. The company plans to offer larger, more comprehensive enterprise solutions in order to increase sales both domestically and internationally. Software Spectrum also plans to continue investing in the education, communication and infastructural aspects of its employee force in order to assist the company’s advancement into the future.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Software Spectrum Canada, Ltd. Software Spectrum B.V. Software Spectrum Limited Essentially Group

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Judy O. Sims, CEO Keith R. Coogan, Pres./COO Deborah A. Nugent, CFO/VP-Finance Roger J. King, Exec. VP-Sales and Mktg. Robert B. Mercer, VP/CIO Robert D. Graham, VP-Strategic Relationships

Phone: 972-840-6600 Fax: 972-864-7878 Toll-Free: 800-624-0503 Address: 2140 Merritt Drive, Garland, TX, 75041 Internet Address: www.swspectrum.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $930,000 1998 Sales: $884,100 1997 Sales: $796,300 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: SSPE

1999 Profits: $6,100 1998 Profits: $4,500 1997 Profits: $- 800 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,700

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $460,000 Second Exec. Salary: $270,000

Bonus: $213,750 Bonus: $122,500

On-line and direct sales of every type of software.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 4 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

492

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

SOLO SERVE CORPORATION Industry Group Code: 45291 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 21

Profits: 18

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Solo Serve

25,000-30,000

$3,038,741

In-line

27

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Discount Stores, Retail

Solo Serve Corporation operates a chain of off-price retail stores that offer a broad variety of name-brand and other merchandise at significantly reduced prices. Fashions and styles found at Solo Serve stores are available for the entire family, and fragrances, hosiery, shoes and home furnishings are as well. 27 Solo Serve stores are scattered throughout Texas and Louisiana, and each features abundant in-store signing and a departmentalized atmosphere. These departments are typically configured around a racetrack-styled aisle, drawing the customer’s attention to the merchandise offered. The company is currently making adjustments to store fixtures, department location and selling space footage in order to improve margin and sales figures. Recently, the company opened two new stores in Texas that were significantly smaller than traditional Solo Serve stores. The company successfully emerged from Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in 1996, and experienced an $82 million sales figure for fiscal 1998.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Solo Serve

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Charles M. Seigel, Pres./CEO Ross E. Bacon, COO Ross E. Bacon, CFO Gerard Bertholon, VP-Int'l Sales Jim Miranda, VP-Human Resources Gerard Bertholon, VP-Tech. Support Jean-Pierre Guillaud, VP-Oper. Michael Aevermann, VP-Transp. and On-Board Services

Phone: 210-662-6262 Fax: 210-662-0938 Toll-Free: Address: 1610 Cornerway Boulevard, San Antonio, TX, 78219 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $82,046 1997 Sales: $95,238 1996 Sales: $109,823 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: SOLO

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-6,289 1997 Profits: $-5,485 1996 Profits: $-4,831 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

475

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $233,323 Second Exec. Salary: $191,480

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Offers merchandise at prices significantly below traditional department and specialty stores.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

493

SONIC AUTOMOTIVE INC Industry Group Code: 4411 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 4

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Various

Profits: 3

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

$59,396,333

Free-standing

45

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Auto Dealers, Retail Collision repair centers Sales of auto parts

Sonic Automotive, Inc. is one of the leading automotive retailers in the United States, operating 73 dealership franchises, four used vehicle facilities and 15 collision repair centers in the southeastern and southwestern United States. Sonic sells new and used cars and light trucks, sells replacement parts, provides vehicle maintenance, warranty, paint and repair services and arranges related finance and insurance for its automotive customers. The company is geographically diverse, with dealership operations in North Carolina, Tennessee, Florida, Texas, and Georgia. Recently, the company completed its acquisition of Clearwater Toyota, Clearwater Mitsubishi, and Clearwater Collision Center, Inc. located in Clearwater, Florida. The company has also acquired the Higginbotham Dealership Group, Infiniti of Charlotte and Tampa Volvo. Sonic Automotive, Inc. also signed a definitive agreement to purchase the Hatfield dealership group located in Columbus, Ohio and Capitol Chevrolet and Imports located in Montgomery, Alabama. The company has also entered into agreements to acquire the Newsome Dealership Group and Global Imports. The Newsome Dealership Group consists of Newsome Chevrolet World and Newsome Automotive (Chevrolet and Mercedes-Benz) and Imports of Florence (BMW and Isuzu). Global Imports is one of the premier BMW dealerships in the Southeast and one of the ten largest BMW dealerships in the United States. Sonic Automotive, Inc. has plans to acquire the Tom Williams Dealership Group, Ron Craft Chevrolet-Cadillac-Oldsmobile, Ron Craft Chrysler-Plymouth-Jeep, Century BMW, Heritage Lincoln-Mercury-Jaguar, and Rally Mitsubishi. The company has also opened up two Volvo dealerships.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Town & Country Ford Lone Star Ford Fort Mill Ford Fort Mill Chrysler-Plymouth-Dodge Town & Country Toyota Frontier Oldsmobile-Cadillac Ken Marks Ford Dyer Volvo

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. O. Bruton Smith, CEO B. Scott Smith, Pres./COO Theodore M. Wright, CFO/VP

Phone: 704-532-3320 Fax: 704-532-3312 Toll-Free: Address: P.O. Box 18747, Charlotte, NC, 28218 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $1,603,700 1997 Sales: $536,000 1996 Sales: $376,600 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: SAH

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $18,600 1997 Profits: $3,700 1996 Profits: $3,000 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 3,040

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $326,704 Second Exec. Salary: $273,767

Bonus: $ Bonus: $18,331

Vertical integration.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

494

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

SOUND ADVICE INC Industry Group Code: 443 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 13

Profits: 12

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Sound Advice Bang & Olufson

15,000-17,000 1,600

$5,945,808

Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line

24 2

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Electronics, Audio, and Appliance Stores - Retail Video products Televisions Home and car audio systems Cellular telephones Car security systems Home entertainment furniture

Sound Advice is a full service specialty retailer of a broad range of high-quality, upscale entertainment and consumer electronics products. The company operates 24 stores in Florida, which sell home and car audio systems, large screen projection and direct view televisions, video products, cellular telephones and other personal electronics such as home telephones, answering machines and hand held audio systems, car security systems, home entertainment furniture and related customized services and accessories. In contrast to mass merchandisers and discounters of consumer electronic products, Sound Advice includes among its targeted customers those consumers seeking informed advice concerning product selection and system integration in conjunction with products incorporating the latest technology. The company's marketing strategy is to build customer satisfaction and loyalty through its customer support program which includes a technically proficient sales force and custom design, installation and repair services. Sound Advice's showrooms provide comfortable surroundings and contain audition rooms and demonstration areas where customers are encouraged to test and compare products. In its stores, Sound Advice emphasizes a broad selection of upscale and specialty brand consumers electronic products, appealing to the more affluent customers in search of exclusive brand names.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES:

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. P. Beshouri, Pres./CEO Christopher O'Neil, Exec. VP/COO Kenneth L. Danielson, CFO/Chief Acc. Officer Kenneth L. Danielson, Treas.

Phone: 954-922-4434 Fax: 954-926-4389 Toll-Free: Address: 1901 Tigertail Blvd., Dania, FL, 33004 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $154,600 1998 Sales: $96,800 1997 Sales: $155,623 1996 Sales: $168,985 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: SUND

1999 Profits: $ 700 1998 Profits: $-1,000 1997 Profits: $- 871 1996 Profits: $-4,227 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

677

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $324,008 Second Exec. Salary: $294,008

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Builds customer loyalty through technically proficient sales force and custom design, installation and repair services.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

495

SPECIALITY CATALOG CORP Industry Group Code: 4541 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 9

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 2

Annual Sales Per Store:

Daxbourne SC Direct SC Publishing

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Free-standing/Catalog

2 Stores/11 Booths in dept. stores

Catalog only Catalog only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Wigs and Hairpieces-Women's Continuing education catalogs Hats, other accessories Wholesale distribution

Through it’s principal subsidiary, SC Direct, Specialty Catalog Corporation is the leading retailer of women's wigs and hairpieces in the United States. A subsidiary of SC Direct, Daxbourne International Limited is a leading retailer and wholesaler of women’s wigs and hairpieces in the United Kingdom, where three stand-alone retail outlets exist, as does a Jacquiline Collection hairpiece catalog. Wigs, Hairpieces, hats and other accessories are sold through four main catalogs: Paula Young, Christine Jordan, Especially Yours and Paula’s Hatbox. Through these catalogs, selections of several distinct brands of wigs and additional hairpieces are offered, such as wellknown Paula Young, Christine Jordan, Touch of Class, Celebrity Secrets, Eva Gabor and Dihann Caroll brands. The Especially Yours catalog offers wigs targeted towards African-American women, with naturally-textured features and a variety of styling options. The company feels that its celebrity-endorsed wigs will help gain both a broader customer base and a wider acceptance of wigs as accessory items. Scarves, hat pins, costume jewelry, shoes and handbags are offered along with any headpiece from visors and baseball caps to designer hats priced at over $200 in Paula’s Hatbox. The company’s SC Publishing division distributes catalogs under the Western Schools brand, offering continuing education courses. The division is currently test marketing professional items targeted towards nurses.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Paula Young Christine Jordan Especially Yours Touch of Class Celebrity Secrets Dihann Caroll Paula's Hatbox Eva Gabor

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Steven L. Bock, CEO Stephen M. O'Hara, Pres. J. William Heise, Sr. VP/CFO

Phone: 508-238-0199 Fax: 508-238-1965 Toll-Free: Address: 21 Bristol Dr., South Easton, MA, 02375 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $48,900 1997 Sales: $43,500 1996 Sales: $36,300 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: CTLG

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $1,600 1997 Profits: $2,300 1996 Profits: $1,000 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

282

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $290,490 Second Exec. Salary: $215,337

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Offers an upscale approach to hairpiece retailing.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

496

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

SPIEGEL INC Industry Group Code: 45411 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Eddie Bauer Sportswear Eddie Bauer HOME AKA EDDIE BAUER The Complete Eddie Bauer Eddie Bauer Newport News, Eddie Bauer & Ultimate Outlet

6,700 6,700 6,700 Superstore 6,700 6,700

Profits: 15

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Mall/Downtown location/Catalog Mall/Downtown location/Catalog Mall/Downtown location/Catalog

33 40 34

In-line/Mall/Catalog Outlet mall

400 48

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel and Home Fashions-Direct Selling Apparel-retail and mail Household furnishings-retail and mail On-line selling

Spiegel, Inc. is a leading retailer of apparel, household furnishings and other merchandise. The company's household furnishings range from traditional to contemporary styles, including accent pieces, decorative accessories, bedding and bath, home electronics, window treatments and rugs. Other merchandise includes items such as fitness and personal care equipment, toys, cameras and luggage. Spiegel's major operations include Eddie Bauer, Spiegel Catalog, Newport News and FCNB. Eddie Bauer is a leading specialty retailer serving the casual lifestyle needs of men and women through the sales of private-label apparel, home furnishings and accessories. A key strategy for Eddie Bauer is to leverage synergies between its retail and catalog channels, maximizing cross-promotion. Newport News is a specialty catalog company, selling fashionable, moderately priced women's apparel as well as home textiles. The company acquired First Consumers National Bank (FCNB) to issue credit cards, primarily those for use by Spiegel, Eddie Bauer and Newport News customers. Associate teams play key roles within the company, fostering a culture in which people are empowered to make a difference. The company cites the E STYLE catalog concept as a direct outgrowth of associate input. Employees benefit from The Spiegel Group's in-house training and education programs including Eddie Bauer University, which is Eddie Bauer's associate education program. The Spiegel Group also offers a wide array of courses focusing on job skills training, management development, and the use of personal computers and software programs. The Spiegel Group offers tuition reimbursement programs for associates seeking college degrees.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Eddie Bauer, Inc. First Consumers National Bank Newport News, Inc. Eddie Bauer Retail Division Eddie Bauer Catalog Division Distribution Fulfillment Services, Inc. Spiegel AKA EDDIE BAUER

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. John W. Irvin, Pres./CEO James W. Sievers, CFO Harold S. Dahlstrand, Chief Human Resources Officer Jon K. Nordeen, CIO Michael R. Moran, Chief Legal Officer John R. Steele, Treas. George D. Ittner, Pres./CEO-Newport News John W. Irwin, Pres./CEO-Spiegel Catalog

Phone: 630-986-8800 Fax: 630-769-3101 Toll-Free: 800-345-4500 Address: 3500 Lacey Road, Downers Grove, IL, 60515 Internet Address: www.spiegel.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $2,893,200 1997 Sales: $3,056,800 1996 Sales: $3,014,600 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: SPGLA

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $3,300 1997 Profits: $-33,000 1996 Profits: $-13,400 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 13,400

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $750,000 Second Exec. Salary: $500,000

Bonus: $243,700 Bonus: $300,000

Name recognition/Operated as a catalog merchandiser since 1905.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Partners & Shevack, Inc., New York, NY

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

497

SPORT CHALET INC Industry Group Code: 45111 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 5

Profits: 7

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Sport Chalet

34,000-50,000

$7,527,053

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores: 19

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Sporting Goods, Retail Skiing equipment Mountain bicycling equipment SCUBA equipment In-line skating equipment Roller hockey equipment Specialty sporting goods

Sport Chalet, Inc. is a leading operator of full service specialty sporting goods superstores in southern California. The company currently has 19 stores, eight located in Los Angeles County, five in Orange County, three in San Diego County, two in San Bernardino County and one in Ventura county. The company’s stores feature a number of distinct specialty sporting goods shops under one roof, each offering a large assortment of quality brand name merchandise at competitive prices. The specialty shops include traditional sporting goods merchandise and nontraditional merchandise such as downhill skiing, mountaineering and scuba diving equipment. The merchandise within each shop appeals to both experts and beginners. The company’s business is highly seasonal in nature. Recently, the company’s Scuba Training and Certification program was converted from The National Association of Underwater Instructors to The Professional Association of Diving Instructors.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES:

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Norbert Olberz, CEO/Pres. Craig L. Levra, Pres./COO Howard K. Kaminsky, Sr. VP-Finance/CFO Robert W. Haueter, Sr. VP-Sales and Mktg. Robert W. Haueter, Sr. VP-Merch.

Phone: 626-790-2717 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 920 Foothill Boulevard, La Canada, CA, 91011 Internet Address: www.sportchalet.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $143,000 1997 Sales: $137,700 1996 Sales: $133,700 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: SPCH

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $3,200 1997 Profits: $2,300 1996 Profits: $-1,400 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,448

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $250,000 Second Exec. Salary: $145,000

Bonus: $125,000 Bonus: $52,000

Large superstores with a variety of sporting goods at competitive prices.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

498

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

SPORT SUPPLY GROUP INC Industry Group Code: 45111 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 7

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 6

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Direct-mail marketer

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Sporting Goods, Retail

One of the largest direct mail marketers of sports related equipment and leisure products in the United States, Sport Supply Group, Inc. primarily serves the institutional markets. Schools, colleges, universities, government agencies, military facilities, athletic clubs, youth sports leagues and recreational organizations are included in the market that Sport Supply Group serves. The company offers a broad range of industrial-grade products and equipment—over 8,000 sports-related equipment products, to be exact. With over 200,000 names on the mailing list, the company is able to market its products to over 100,000 institutional , retail, mass merchant and team dealer customers. Sport Supply Group’s products include well-known name brands such as Champion and AMF. The company decided to strategically dispose of its golf division in 1997 in order to concentrate on other aspects of the business. Besides through BSN Sports and New England Camp catalogs, the company sells its merchandise through telemarketing, bid-related sales efforts and other methods. Archery, tennis, camping, gymnastics, track and field, football, soccer, baseball and other sports fans can find the equipment they need with Sport Supply Group, who experienced a $5 million net increase during fiscal 1998.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Gold Eagle Nitro Toppleball AMF MacGregor Maxpro Champion Pro Base

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Geoffrey P. Jurick, CEO John P. Walker, Pres./COO John P. Walker, CFO Adam Blumenfeld, VP-Sales and Mktg. Lori Hammons, Mgr.-Human Resources

Phone: 972-484-9484 Fax: 972-243-8788 Toll-Free: Address: 1901 Diplomat Drive, Farmers Branch, TX, 75234 Internet Address: www.sportsupplygroup.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $97,300 1997 Sales: $79,100 1996 Sales: $80,500 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: GYM

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $5,000 1997 Profits: $ 1996 Profits: $-18,800 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

425

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $260,833 Second Exec. Salary: $250,000

Bonus: $135,000 Bonus: $75,000

Largest direct mail marketer of sports related equipment in the U.S.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: BSN Advertising, Farmers Branch, TX

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

499

SPORTS AUTHORITY INC (THE) Industry Group Code: 45111 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Profits: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

The Sports Authority

40,000+

$7,998,500

Free-standing/In-line

225

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Sporting Goods, Retail Athletic and Active footwear Athletic apparel Sporting equipment

The Sports Authority, Inc. is the largest operator of large format sporting goods stores in the U.S. and is also the largest full-line sporting goods retailer in the U.S. These sporting goods super stores feature an extensive selection of name brand sporting goods, activewear, and footwear. The company operates approximately 196 sporting goods megastores in 30 states. The company has an international presence with six stores in Canada and seven stores in Japan. The Sports Authority opened 41stores for a total of 225 stores at the end of the year, including three stores in a smaller format in New York City under the name The Sports Authority, Ltd. The company currently plans to open between 60 and 70 new stores during the next two years. Venator and the company signed a definitive merger agreement recently. This transaction will bring together two premier names in retailing. Venator is a diversified global retailer that operates 7,200 stores in 12 countries in North America, Europe, Australia, and Asia.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: The Sports Authority & Design THE SKI AUTHORITY Venator

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Jack A Smith, CEO Richard J. Lynch Jr., Pres./COO Anthony F. Crudele, VP/CFO Paul D. Lockard, VP-Human Resources Robert J. Timinski, Exec. VP/Chief Merch. Officer Samuel G. Allen, Int'l Pres. Arnold D. Sedel, Sr. VP-Stores

Phone: 954-735-1701 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 3383 North State Road 7, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33319 Internet Address: www.sportsauthority.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $1,599,700 1998 Sales: $1,464,600 1997 Sales: $1,271,300 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: TSA

1999 Profits: $-63,800 1998 Profits: $22,200 1997 Profits: $30,000 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 11,900

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $635,000 Second Exec. Salary: $375,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Largest operator of large format sporting goods in the U.S./Largest full-line sporting goods retailer in the U.S. in terms of sales.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: The Lord Group, New York, NY

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

500

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

SPORTSMAN'S GUIDE INC (THE) Industry Group Code: 45411 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 22

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 18

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

The Sportsman's Guide

Number of Stores: Mail order

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Outdoors/Hunting-Related Products Mail-order military surplus items Mail-order camping equipment Internet sales

The Sportsman’s Guide, Inc. has established itself as a leading mail order retailer of outdoor, hunting, camping and general merchandise offered at low prices. Everything from army surplus equipment to general hunting and camping equipment and apparel is sold through The Sportsman’s Guide’s catalogs, which number almost 61 million mailed each year. Hunting and shooting accessories, optics, collectibles and gift items are offered by The Sportsman’s Guide as well. The company’s products are additionally available through its website, which, like the catalogs, is designed to be fun and entertaining. Each product description is written in a firstperson format from Gary Olen, the company’s president, to the reader. Caricatures, photo captions and other humorous artistic touches are additionally scattered throughout the catalogs to distinguish the company’s offerings from those of other competitors. The company sports a Buyer’s Club, offering its members merchandise exclusive to them, as well as a 10% discount on all purchases, except sale items and special buys, which receive a 5% discount. The company also implements the inclusion of a payment plan into its strategy. The Sportsman’s Guide, Inc. experienced a $1.4 million net increase during fiscal 1998.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: The Sportsman's Guide

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Gary Olen, CEO Gregory R. Binkley, Pres./COO Charles B. Lingen, Sr. VP-Finance/CFO John M. Casler, Sr. VP-Merch. Charles B. Lingen, Treas. Barry W. Benecke, Sr. VP-Creative Services

Phone: 651-451-3030 Fax: 651-450-6130 Toll-Free: Address: 411 Farwell Ave., South St. Paul, MN, 55075-2428 Internet Address: www.sportsmansguide.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $142,900 1997 Sales: $128,100 1996 Sales: $112,300 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: SGDE

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $1,400 1997 Profits: $2,500 1996 Profits: $2,300 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

880

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $259,605 Second Exec. Salary: $178,939

Bonus: $110,000 Bonus: $60,000

Fun and entertaining catalogs/website.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Novus Marketing, Minneapolis, MN

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

501

SPS TRANSACTION SERVICES INC Industry Group Code: 52232A Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 4

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 4

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Support services

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Credit Card Processing, Retail Administration of private label credit cards Outsourcing services Account processing for commercial customers Customized operating services Software and technical support

SPS Transaction Services, Inc. provides technologybased outsourcing services including electronic processing of non-cash point-of-sale transactions, consumer private-label credit card program administration, commercial accounts receivable processing and call center-based customer service applications. Simply put, the company primarily performs services related to authorization, data capture, reporting and routing for check, credit and debit card transactions. SPS Transaction Services additionally offers a wide array of transaction and software technical support services. The company, which is a subsidiary of the number one consumer finance corporation in the United States, First Capital, operates primarily through its two main subsidiaries: SPS Payment Systems and Hurley State Bank. TeleServices, the company’s call center, provides on-line technical support and desk help, and performs catalog order entry tasks and handling of customer service inquiries. This is one of the most exciting outsourcing companies in the financial industry. The company headquarters has a fitness center and a 1.6 mile walking and jogging trail.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: SPS Payment Systems, Inc. Hurley State Bank Med-Link Technologies, Inc. MedCash Health System, L.P. Dean Witter, Discover & Co. Associates First Capital Corp. Tandy Corporation

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Robert L. Wieseneck, CEO Robert L. Wieseneck, Pres. Thomas C. Schneider, CFO Robert W. Archer, Sr. VP-Sales Robert J. Ferkenhoff, VP/CIO Richard F. Atkinson, Sr. VP-Oper. David J. Peterson, VP-Network Services and Corp. Dev.

Phone: 847-405-3700 Fax: 847-405-3854 Toll-Free: Address: 2500 Lake Cook Road, Riverwoods, IL, 60015 Internet Address: www.spspay.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $284,585 1997 Sales: $540,000 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: PAY

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $38,500 1997 Profits: $38,500 1996 Profits: $43,473 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 3,740

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $ Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Leading provider of outsourcing services/Focus on nontraditional market niches/Acquired by Associates First Capital Corp.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

502

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

STANDEX INTERNATIONAL CORP Industry Group Code: 45322 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 2

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Berean Christian Stores

Number of Stores: 23

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Religious Materials, Retail Christian bookstore chain operator Aerospace components Mail-order fruit Binding systems Food service equipment Texturizing systems Rotary vane pumps

Standex International Corporation is a diversified manufacturing and marketing company with operations in three product segments: Food Service, Industrial and Consumer. The company’s Food Service products division makes Master-Bilt refrigerators and freezers, Barbecue King and BKI commercial cooking equipment, USECO food service equipment, and Procon pumps for the carbonated beverage industry. The company’s Industrial segment makes binding systems, plates and print rolls along with other products for the printing and publishing industry. The Consumer segment includes the commercial printing of religious periodicals and other literature for Christian bookstores, Sunday schools and vacation Bible schools. The company’s Consumer segment also operates a retail chain of 23 Berean Christian Bookstores along with consumer direct mail marketing of packages of fruit, roses, onions and salsa. During the company’s most recent fiscal year it acquired two company’s; ACME Manufacturing, a manufacturer of heating and cooling equipment for the homebuilding industry, and ATR Coil, a manufacturer of electronic coils and windings for the industrial, automotive and consumer markets. Standex also purchased a hardware product line, including inventory and manufacturing machinery.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Standard Publishing Crest Fruit Company Standex Commercial Products James Burn International Roehlen Industries Wire-O Mult-O Berean Christian Stores

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Edward J. Trainor, CEO Edward J. Trainor, Pres. Lindsay M. Sedwick, CFO/Sr. VP-Finance David R. Crichton, Exec. VP-Oper.

Phone: 603-893-9701 Fax: 603-893-7324 Toll-Free: Address: 6 Manor Parkway, Salem, NH, 03079 Internet Address: www.standex.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $616,200 1997 Sales: $564,623 1996 Sales: $562,679 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: SXI

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $20,100 1997 Profits: $26,919 1996 Profits: $30,714 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 5,500

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $587,500 Second Exec. Salary: $516,667

Bonus: $150,000 Bonus: $

Focus on printing of religious items.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

503

STAPLES INC Industry Group Code: 4532 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Profits: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Staples - The Office Superstore Staples Express Staples Direct Staples.com Quill Corporation

24,000 6,000-10,000 Catalog only Internet only Catalog only

$7,737,859

In-line Downtown

913 incl. in above number

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Office Supplies, Retail Contract stationer Catalog sales Internet sales

Staples, Inc. is the number two office supply superstore (behind Office Depot) in the U.S. Staples pioneered the concept of office supply superstores and currently operates 742 retail stores in the U.S., the U.K., Canada and Germany, in addition to a catalog business and contract stationer operations. The company’s overseas operations are a joint venture partnership and operate under the name MAXI-Papier. The company’s markets include all sizes of businesses from home offices to corporations with over 1,000 employees. In addition to the company’s superstore format stores which carry over 8,000 stock keeping units, the company also utilizes Express Stores in select urban markets to meet the needs of urban businesses in a more economical and efficient manner, carrying fewer SKUs and operating in a much smaller store. Staples operates a direct mail catalog business which offers next day delivery for orders over $50, and a contract stationer business which offers customized pricing and payment terms for medium to large businesses. Recent news for Staples includes the purchase of the privately held Quill Corporation, a direct seller of office supplies, after the Federal Trade Commission blocked the company’s planned merger with Office Depot.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Staples-The Office Superstore Staples Express Business Depot Bureau En Gros Staples Direct Staples National Advantage Staples Business Advantage Maxi Papier

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. James R. Wilson, Pres./CEO Ronald L. Sargent, COO Richard L. Corbin, CFO/Sr. VP James E. McNulty, Exec. VP-Human Resources and Admin. Richard R. Gentry, Exec. VP-Merch. Joseph A. Lombardo, VP/General Mgr.-Space Oper.

Phone: 508-370-8500 Fax: 508-370-8989 Toll-Free: Address: One Research Drive, Westborough, MA, 01581 Internet Address: www.staples.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $7,123,200 1998 Sales: $5,181,000 1997 Sales: $3,967,665 1996 Sales: $3,068,061 1995 Sales: $2,000,149

Stock Ticker: SPLS

1999 Profits: $185,400 1998 Profits: $130,900 1997 Profits: $106,420 1996 Profits: $73,705 1995 Profits: $39,940

Employees: 32,286

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $575,000 Second Exec. Salary: $290,000

Bonus: $792,750 Bonus: $286,260

Has grown rapidly since its inception in 1986.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 13 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Cliff Freeman & Partners, New York, NY

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

504

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

STARBUCKS CORP Industry Group Code: 7221 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Starbucks

Profits: 2

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

$600,000 first year

in-line/free-standing/food court

2,312

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Restaurants/food stores Recorded music CDs Ice cream Coffee-making equipment Wholesale coffee distribution Related gifts and books Premium teas

Starbucks Corporation and its subsidiaries purchase and roast high-quality whole bean coffees and sell them along with fresh, rich-brewed coffees and Italian-style espresso beverages. The company’s objective is to establish Starbucks as the most recognized and respected brand of coffee in the world. Starbucks plans to continue to rapidly expand its retail operations, grow its direct response and specialty sales operations and selectively pursue other opportunities to leverage and increase the Starbucks brand through the introduction of new products and the development of new distribution channels. In addition to its retail operations, the company sells whole bean coffees through a specialty sales group and a national direct response business. In th U.S., the typical customer is a 25 to 49 year-old woman. Starbucks has also recently entered into joint ventures with the Pepsi-Cola Company, a division of PepsiCo, Inc., to develop ready-to-drink coffee-based products and with Dreyer’s Grand Ice Cream, Inc. to develop premium coffee ice cream products. The company is investing heavily in on-line retailing, and is growing rapidly overseas. By the end of 1999, it will have opened 400 new stores world-wide, and the CEO feels that the potential exists for as many as 10,000 stores worldwide. Same store sales were up an impressive 5% for the first half of 1999. However, the stock has been pounded down, partly due to the CEO's recently announced plans to concentrate on building a new Internet site that will sell lifestyle items such as furniture and housewares along with, of course, coffee. The site may be partnered with another leading retailer, or Starbucks may go on an acquisition hunt. The company offers full benefits, even to part-time employees who work at least 20 hours a week, stock options, and a pound of free coffee each week. Hourly pay is high compared to pay in other food establishments. Stock options are generous and widely distributed.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Starbucks Frappucino Tazo premium teas

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Howard Schultz, CEO Orin Smith, Pres./COO Michael Casey, Sr. VP/CFO Scott Bedbury, Sr. VP-Mktg. Sharon Elliott, Sr. VP-Human Resources Carol Eastin, Sr. VP-MIS Howard Behar, Pres.-Starbucks International

Phone: 206-447-1575 Fax: 206-682-7570 Toll-Free: Address: P.O. Box 34067, Seattle, WA, 98134 Internet Address: www.starbucks.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $1,308,700 1997 Sales: $696,500 1996 Sales: $465,200 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: SBUX

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $68,400 1997 Profits: $42,100 1996 Profits: $26,100 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 25,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $493,654 Second Exec. Salary: $394,231

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Name recognition/Amazing growth.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

505

STEIN MART INC Industry Group Code: 4521 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 16

Profits: 14

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Stein Mart

38,000

$4,933,082

In-line

185

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Discount Dept. Stores, Retail Apparel Linens Accessories Gifts Shoes

Stein Mart, Inc. is a retail chain offering fashionable, current-season, primarily branded merchandise comparable in quality and presentation to that of traditional department and fine specialty stores at prices typically 25% to 60% below those regularly charged by such stores. The company’s focused assortment of merchandise features moderate to designer brand-name apparel for women, men and children, as well as accessories, gifts, linens, shoes and fragrances. The company’s business strategy is to maintain the quality of merchandise, store appearance, merchandise presentation and customer service levels typical of traditional department and fine specialty stores and offer value pricing to its customers through its vendor relationships, tight control over corporate and store expenses and efficient management of inventory. The company also implements training programs for employees which emphasize attentiveness, courtesy and the effective use of selling techniques. The company reinforces its training programs by employing independent shopping services to monitor employees’ success in implementing the principles taught in sales training. Associates who are highly rated by the shopping service receive both formal recognition and cash awards. The company operates approximately 185 stores, 28 of which were recently opened, representing a 22.8% increase its store network. In 1999, the company plans on adding 36 new stores. Stein Mart is famous for hiring well-connected women to work in dress departments in exchange for deep employee discounts on store merchandise.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Stein Mart

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Jay Stein, CEO John H. Williams, Jr., Pres./COO James G. Delfs, Sr. VP-Finance/CFO D. Hunt Hawkins, Sr. VP-Human Resources Matthew K. Votaw, VP-Info. Systems Michael Remsen, Exec. VP-Merch. Michael D. Fisher, Exec. VP-Stores

Phone: 904-346-1500

Fax: 904-398-4341, 904-3461297 (Employment Manager)

Toll-Free: Address: 1200 Riverplace Blvd., Jacksonville, FL, 32207 Internet Address: www.steinmart.com Notes/Other Info: [email protected]

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $897,800 1997 Sales: $792,700 1996 Sales: $616,200 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: SMRT

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $20,500 1997 Profits: $34,800 1996 Profits: $2,600 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 10,500

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $446,250 Second Exec. Salary: $436,250

Bonus: $200,000 Bonus: $100,000

Prices typically 25 to 60 percent below those regularly charged by traditional department stores.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 4 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Fry/Hammond/Barr Incorporated, Orlando, FL

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

506

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

STERLING COMMERCE INC Industry Group Code: 52252A Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 6

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Support services

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Financial Processing (E-Commerce Products), Retail Electronic commerce network services Software

Sterling Commerce, Inc. develops, markets and supports electronic commerce products and provides electronic commerce network services that enable businesses to engage in business-to-business electronic communications and transactions. The company was formerly Sterling Software’s Electronic Commerce Group, but was spun off from Sterling Software in a recent year. The company's VECTOR family enables banks to provide to their corporate customers integrated trade-payment processing services for both paper-based check payments and electronic payments. Approximately 2,000 VECTOR systems have been installed at approximately 830 customer sites worldwide, including 99 of the top 100 U.S. banks. The company's COMMERCE family has over 13,600 sites worldwide and helps facilitate the electronic exchange of business transactions and documents. The GENTRAN family provides two Web-based products, while CONNECT products offers a complete suite of automated file transfer and communications management solutions that support a wide variety of protocols.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Commerce Services Group Communications Software Group Interchange Software Group Banking Systems Group International Group MAXXUS, Inc. Sterling Software VECTOR

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Warner C. Blow, Pres./CEO J. Brad Sharp, Exec. VP/COO Steven P. Shiflet, Sr. VP-Finance/CFO John Blaine, Controller

Phone: 214-891-8600 Fax: 214-739-0535 Toll-Free: Address: 8080 North Central Expressway, Suite 1100, Dallas, TX, 75206 Internet Address: www.sterling.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $490,300 1997 Sales: $350,600 1996 Sales: $267,800 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: SE

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-61,200 1997 Profits: $55,400 1996 Profits: $58,400 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 2,300

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $700,000 Second Exec. Salary: $533,333

Bonus: $300,000 Bonus: $200,000

Strong electronic banking and financial processing products.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Triangle Advertising, Springboro, OH

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

507

STERLING VISION INC Industry Group Code: 44613 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 7

Profits: 6

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Sterling Optical

1,000-2,000

Mall/In-line

IPCO Optical Site for Sore Eyes Benson Optical Southern Optical Superior Optical

1,000-2,000 1,000-2,000 1,000-2,000 1,000-2,000 1,000-2,000

Mall/In-line Mall/In-line Mall/In-line Mall/In-line

50 Company-owned/260 fran. incl. in above number incl. in above number incl. in above number incl. in above number incl. in above number

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Eyeglasses, Retail Eyeglasses Contacts Frames Sunglasses Laser surgery Ambulatory surgery centers

Based upon domestic sales and number of locations, Sterling Vision Inc. is one of the largest chains of retail optical stores and the second largest franchised optical chain in the U.S. Each Sterling Vision store employs or is affiliated with one or several optometrists, and each store features a wide variety of prescription eyeglasses, frames, sunglasses and contacts. Currently, Sterling Vision centers number 260 franchised and 50 company-owned locations, with centers scattered throughout 25 of the United States, the District of Columbia and Canada. While the company’s stores have been operating under various names, the company is currently formulating plans to convert the majority of its store banners to the Sterling Optical name. Recently, the company acquired 90 stores formerly operated by Louisville-based Vision Centers of America Ltd., also known as D&K Optical, as well as opening its first Insight Laser Center offering total eye-care service. The company views its company-owned stores as inventory to be strategically sold to qualified franchisees. By doing this, Sterling Vision, Inc. hopes to recognize a gain on the sale and to create a stream of royalty payments based upon a percentage of the gross revenues. Sterling's website offers a virtual mirror service, advice on frame shape and color, and an e-commerce connection where frames can be purchased online.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Sterling Optical Insight Laser Centers IPCO Optical Site For Sore Eyes Benson Optical Southern Optical Superior Optical Nevada Optical

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Jerry Lewis, CEO Jerry Lewis, Pres./COO William J. Young, Exec. VP-Finance/CFO William J. Young, Treas. Jerry R. Darnell, Exec. VP-Franchising

Phone: 516-390-2100 Fax: 516-390-2190 Toll-Free: Address: 1500 Hempstead Turnpike, East Meadow, NY, 11554 Internet Address: www.sterlingoptical.net Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $23,200 1997 Sales: $24,400 1996 Sales: $28,500 1995 Sales: $36,878

Stock Ticker: ISEE

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-17,800 1997 Profits: $-14,200 1996 Profits: $-4,500 1995 Profits: $ 800

Employees:

476

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $210,000 Second Exec. Salary: $159,600

Bonus: $40,000 Bonus: $71,553

Second largest franchised optical chain the U.S.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Berenter Greenhouse & Webster, Inc., New York, NY

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

508

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

STROUDS INC Industry Group Code: 44229 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 5

Profits: 8

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Strouds Superstores Strouds Outlet Stores

17,500 8,100

$3,800,000 $2,000,000

In-line In-line

48 17

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Linens/Housewares, Retails Bed, bath and tabletop products Home textile products

Strouds, Inc. is a leading specialty retailer of better quality bed, bath, tabletop and other home textiles products, decorative accessories, window treatments, furniture and area rugs. The company operates 66 retail stores in California, Illinois, Minnesota, Nevada and Maryland. In 1988, the company changed from its original format to a larger superstore format. The company has continued to increase the size of new and expanded super stores opened. Since the opening of its first superstore, all of the company’s new stores have used the superstore format. Recently, Strouds completed the conversion of its two remaining original format stores to outlet stores, and additionally converted two of its superstores to outlet stores. These new stores feature improved merchandise presentations, new merchandise categories, higher quality fixtures and an overall ambiance that management believes substantially improves the Strouds shopping experience. The company currently operates 48 superstores averaging approximately 17,500 square feet. 17 outlet stores and smaller facilities target a more bargain-oriented customer. The company’s outlet stores sell slow selling merchandise from superstores that have been marked down and special purchases from suppliers of discounted, irregular and production overruns. The company also continues to test a 50,000 square feet prototype home decorating center that opened in a recent year.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES:

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Charles R. Chinni, CEO Charles R. Chinni, Pres. Douglas C. Felderman, Sr. VP-Finance/CFO Roberta A. Chavance, VP-Human Resources Gary A. Van Wagner, Corp. Controller Donna J. Aidekman, VP/Div. Merch. Mgr. Carolyn A. Bush, VP-Home Services Denis Marsicano, VP-Stores

Phone: 626-912-2866 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 780 South Nogales Street, City of Industry, CA, 91748 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $227,600 1998 Sales: $221,800 1997 Sales: $209,800 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: STRO

1999 Profits: $ 200 1998 Profits: $-3,800 1997 Profits: $-22,000 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,580

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $222,116 Second Exec. Salary: $204,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Store name recognition in its largest market of CA.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 3 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Vinokur Advertising Corp., Los Angeles, CA

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

509

SUCCESSORIES INC Industry Group Code: 51113 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Successories British Links The Golf Company from Golf Digest

Profits: 2

Annual Sales Per Store:

Direct marketing only Catalog only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Mall/Kiosk/In-line

36 company-owned/49 fran. 1

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Motivational Products, Retail Variety Stores Mail-order

Successories, Inc. is a direct mail catalog company, specialty retailer and wholesaler that designs, assembles and markets a diverse range of motivational and selfimprovement products, many of which are the company’s own proprietary designs. The company’s products include distinctive lines of wall decor, desktop art, books, audio tapes, personalized gifts and awards, greeting cards and mugs. All Successories products are designed to have a positive motivational or self-improvement theme that can be used to reinforce basic business goals such as customer service, attitude and teamwork, or to recognize achievement and good performance. The company’s products are marketed primarily through direct marketing (catalog, telemarketing and e-commerce) and through the company’s 82 Successories retail stores. Successories also owns and operates one British Links retail store due to the acquisition of British Links Golf Classics, Inc., a catalog company specializing in golf-related wall decor, gifts and other collectibles. In the company’s most recent year, it mailed a total of 9.7 million Successories catalogs and 2.5 million British Links catalogs using the company’s proprietary customer database in addition to rented mailing lists.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: British Links Golf Classics Winners Collection Celex Group The Golf Company Successories

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. James M. Beltrame, Pres./CEO Gary Rovansek, COO/Pres. M. Andrew King, CFO John F. Halpin, Sr. VP-Direct Mktg. Div. Robert Hayes, Sr. VP-Merch. Raymond A. Mackie, Raymond A. Mackie Peter C. Walts, Sr. VP-Business Dev. Michael H. McKee, Sr. VP/Creative Dir.

Phone: 630-820-7200 Fax: 630-820-2973 Toll-Free: 800-621-1423 Address: 2520 Diehl Road, Aurora, IL, 60504 Internet Address: www.successories.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $52,900 1998 Sales: $56,821 1997 Sales: $56,032 1996 Sales: $35,484 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: SCES

1999 Profits: $-7,300 1998 Profits: $ 87 1997 Profits: $ 262 1996 Profits: $ 700 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

575

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $192,308 Second Exec. Salary: $185,096

Bonus: $50,000 Bonus: $50,000

A unique company with a focus on publishing motivational products.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

510

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

SUNBELT NURSERY GROUP INC Industry Group Code: 4442 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales:

Profits:

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Wolfe Nursery Nurseryland Garden Centers Tip Top Nurseries

24,000-52,000 24,000-52,000 24,000-52,000

$1,473,431 $1,473,431 $1,473,431

Free-standing Free-standing Free-standing

65 total stores incl. in above number incl. in above number

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Garden Supplies/Plants, Retail

Sunbelt Nursery Group, a specialty retailer of plants and garden products, operates 60 retail stores throughout Texas, Arizona and California. The company's major operating subsidiaries, Wolfe Nursery, Nurseryland Garden Centers and Tip Top Nurseries, are located in metropolitan areas of major cities such as Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth, San Antonio, Austin, Phoenix, San Diego and Los Angeles. Each location tailors its selection to the geographic market and climate in which it is located, creating a wide variety of greenery and garden products to choose from. This personalized selection often differentiates Sunbelt Nursery Group stores from the sometimes impersonal competition. Seasonal items such as Christmas trees are additionally available at all locations, as are decorative items such as fountains and pottery. Brand-name products are offered at Sunbelt Nursery Group stores, as well as top-selling private label products such as Perma-Gro fertilizer. Other fertilizers and growing aids are offered at stores as well.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Wolfe's Nursery Tip Top Nurseryland Garden Centers Perma-Gro

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Timothy R. Duoos, CEO Timothy R. Duoos, Pres. Thomas R. Hoekstra, CFO Chad Ruth, VP-Oper.

Phone: 949-248-3811 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 32382 Del Obispo Street, San Juan Capistrano, CA, 92675 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $ 1997 Sales: $95,773 1996 Sales: $129,600 1995 Sales: $138,500

Stock Ticker: SBN

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $ 1997 Profits: $-5,603 1996 Profits: $-2,960 1995 Profits: $- 590

Employees: 1,800

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $180,000 Second Exec. Salary: $120,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Regional name recognition/Stores located in six major metropolitan areas.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

511

SUNGLASS HUT INTERNATIONAL INC Industry Group Code: 44613 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Sunglass Hut Licensed Sunglass Depts. Watch Station Shades.com SwissArmyDepot.com

Profits: 7

Annual Sales Per Store:

Internet only Internet only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Mall/Kiosk Mall Kiosk/In-line/Mall

1,755 130 120

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Eyeglasses (Sunglasses), Retail Internet sales

Sunglass Hut International is a specialty retailer of sunglasses with over 2,000 retail locations worldwide. The company has three key lines of business: Sunglass Hut North America, Sunglass Hut International Division and Watch Station. Watch Station is a specialty retailer of watches and timepieces with more than 75 locations in the United States and the United Kingdom. Recently, the company opened 92 Sunglass Hut locations, 63 licensed departments and 27 Watch Station stores. The company also plans to discontinue its EyeX segment. Sunglass Hut International, Inc. plans to expand its testing of Sunglass Hut/Watch Station combination stores based on the favorable results achieved in preliminary testing of a retail format that includes sunglasses, watches and related inventory in a single store. In addition, Sunglass Hut International has acquired shades.com, one of the largest Internet sites devoted to the sale of branded nonprescription sunglasses, and a second Internet site, SwissArmyDepot.com, an Internet site that primarily sells SwissArmy knives and watches. Retail employees tend to work in small, kiosk locations at major malls.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Sunglass World Holdings Pty Limited Swiss Army Depot.com Watch Station Sunscriptions Sunsations Sunglass Co. Sunglass Hut North America Sunglass Hut International Division Shades.com

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. John X. Watson, CEO John X. Watson, Pres. Larry G. Peterson, Sr. VP/CFO John T. Cavanaugh, VP-MIS Sherry L. Lay, VP-Merch. W. John Short, Exec. VP-Strategic Business Dev. and Int'l Arthur Quintana, VP-Inventory Mgt. and Logistics

Phone: 305-461-6100 Fax: 305-461-6282 Toll-Free: Address: 255 Alhambra Circle, Coral Gables, FL, 33134 Internet Address: www.sunglasshut.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $602,000 1998 Sales: $573,840 1997 Sales: $527,081 1996 Sales: $418,228 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: RAYS

1999 Profits: $19,800 1998 Profits: $-69,600 1997 Profits: $- 225 1996 Profits: $21,637 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 8,843

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $356,539 Second Exec. Salary: $260,000

Bonus: $75,000 Bonus: $50,000

Largest specialty retailer of sunglasses in the world/Offers an extensive selection.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Crispin Porter & Bogusky, Miami, FL

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

512

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

SUPER-SOL LTD Industry Group Code: 4451 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 22

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 17

Annual Sales Per Store:

Super-Sol Hypercol Gal-Yarok Hyper-Netto Universe Club Birkat Rachel

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

In upscale areas Mall/Commercial areas

130 incl. in above number incl. in above number incl. in above number incl. in above number incl. in above number

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Grocery Stores/Supermarkets, Retail Discount supermarket chains Membership warehouse chains Kosher supermarkets

Super-Sol, Ltd. is Israel’s second largest supermarket competitor, and gains its edge by covering several of the small nation’s niches effectively. The company accounts for approximately 40% of the country’s supermarket sales, and operates around 130 food stores under several different names. Super-Sol supermarkets are located in upscale areas, while Hypercol supermarkets are concentrated in shopping malls and other commercial areas. The company’s discount supermarket chains operate under the Gal-Yarok and Hyper-Netto banners. Super-Sol additionally operates a membership warehouse chain called Universe Club, and a Kosher grocery store named Birkat Rachel that operates in areas with high orthodox Jewish populations. Cosmos megastores, also operated by the company, carry large selections of nonfood items in addition to groceries.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Super-Sol Hypercol Gal-Yarok Hyper-Netto Universe Club Birkat Rachel

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Amiaz Sagis, Pres. Yehuda Friedenburg, Exec. VP/CFO Eitan Librot, Mgr.-Human Resources

Phone: +972-3-9391515 Fax: +972-3-9244030 Toll-Free: Address: 39 Hasivim St., Petah Tivka, Israel 49100, Internet Address: www.supersol.co.il Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $1,231,900 1997 Sales: $1,286,900 1996 Sales: $1,062,000 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: SAE

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $30,500 1997 Profits: $31,700 1996 Profits: $31,500 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 4,928

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $ Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Covers many niches in a small nation.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

513

SUPERMERCADOS UNIMARC Industry Group Code: 4451 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 31

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 20

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Supermercados Unimarc Multiahorro

Number of Stores: 40 incl. in above number

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Grocery Stores/Supermarkets, Retail

In terms of sales, Supermercados Unimarc S.A. is the third largest supermarket operator in Chile, and the second largest in the capital city of Santiago. The company's 35 supermarket locations are known as both Supermercados Unimarc and Multiahorro stores; the latter providing foods for a more value-minded customer. The company, which has been a leader in the supermarket business for over 35 years, has four of its locations in Argentina. Brands such as Mi Casa, Unimarc and Multiahorro constitute stores' private-label goods, while brand-name goods are additionally recognized and marketed. After the completion of a recent renovation and restructuring project, the company continues to expand. With plans to additionally operate and construct 18 new stores by the end of fiscal 1999, all the company's stores, including the new locations, will eventually fall under the Unimarc name in order to strengthen brand identity. Mega Unimarc, Super Unimarc and Unimarc Express Stores are currently on the drawing boards at Supermercados Unimarc, and the company expects these specialized concept stores to offer convenience and attract additional customers. The first Unimarc Express store, open 24 hours a day, recently opened.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Supermercados Unimarc Multiaharro stores Mi Casa Unimarc Express Mega Unimarc Super Unimarc

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Pedro P. Cuevas, CEO, Secretary of the Board Eduardo Viada, CFO Fernando Herrera, Pres. Marcelo Martinez, CFO/ Argentine Oper.

Phone: +56-2-383-6000 Fax: +56-2-383-6004 Toll-Free: Address: Avenida Presidente Eduardo Frei Montalava 1830, Santiago, Chile, Internet Address: www.unimarc.cl Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $468,700 1997 Sales: $ 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: UNR

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $9,100 1997 Profits: $ 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 4,521

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $ Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Third largest Chilean supermarket operator.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International: y

514

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

SUPERVALU INC Industry Group Code: 4451 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 4

Profits: 7

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Cub Foods Shop 'n Save Bigg's Save-A-Lot

45,000-100,000 45,000-100,000 45,000-100,000 15,000

Free-standing Free-standing Free-standing Free-standing

Scott's Foods Laneco

30,000-65,000 30,000-65,000

Free-standing Free-standing

65 company-owned/52 fran. 52 10 142 company-owned/630 fran. 22 19

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Grocery Stores, Retail Food distribution and retailing

SUPERVALU, INC. is one of the largest food wholesalers and approximately the 13th largest food retailer in the nation. The company sells food and nonfood products at wholesale and operates a variety of retail store formats and currently supplies 4,800 stores in 48 states. The company currently operates 328 retail stores under its principal corporate retail formats, including price superstores, supercenters, fresh superstores, limitedassortment stores and supermarkets. These exist primarily under the names of Cub Foods, Shop ‘n Save, Bigg’s, Save-A-Lot, Scott’s Foods, Laneco and Hornbacher’s. Hazelwood Farms, a subsidiary, is one of the nation’s largest frozen bakery manufacturers. SUPERVALU recently entered into a third party logistics arrangement to serve Kroger’s Michigan marketing area, a new opportunity for the company. Food wholesaling is a good place for those seeking entrylevel sales rep. positions.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Cub Food Stores Hornbachers Hyper Shoppes, Inc. Laneco MAC Club Moran Foods, Inc./Save-A-Lot Ltd. Scott's Food Stores, Inc. Shop 'n Save Warehouse Foods, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Michael W. Wright, CEO Michael W. Wright, Pres. Pamela K. Knous, Exec. VP/CFO Michael L. Mulligan, VP-Wholesale Sales and Mktg. Ronald C. Tortelli, VP-Human Resources H.S. Skip Smith III, Sr. VP-Info. Services George Chirtea, VP-Merch.

Phone: 312-828-4000 Fax: 612-828-8955 Toll-Free: Address: P.O. Box 990, Minneapolis, MN, 55440 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $17,420,500 1998 Sales: $17,201,400 1997 Sales: $16,551,900 1996 Sales: $16,486,300 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: SVU

1999 Profits: $191,300 1998 Profits: $230,800 1997 Profits: $175,000 1996 Profits: $166,400 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 48,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $868,140 Second Exec. Salary: $630,000

Bonus: $1,215,396 Bonus: $218,400

Strategic growth through acquisitions.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 5 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

515

SYMBOL TECHNOLOGIES INC Industry Group Code: 3341B Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Support services

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Bar Code Transaction Systems, Retail Hand-held computers Radio frequency data communications systems Software and programming tools

Symbol Technologies, Inc. develops, manufactures, sells and services one-dimensional and two-dimensional bar code scanner products. These principally employ laser technology to read data encoded in bar code symbols and scanner integrated application specific mobile computer systems, a substantial portion of which incorporate wireless local area network(WLAN) RF systems to transmit data. The company's bar code scanner equipment is compatible with a wide variety of data collection systems including computers, electronic cash registers and portable data collection devices. Bar code scanners are used to enhance accurate data entry and productivity in retail, transportation and logistics, parcel delivery and postal service, warehousing and distribution, factory automation and many other applications. The company's scanner integrated application specific mobile computer systems consists of hand-held computers, peripheral devices, software and programming tools, and are designed to provide solutions to specific customer needs in data transactions. They are used to collect data at remote locations and to transmit information between these locations and the users' central data processing facility. Data can be entered by a touch screen or a device which reads bar codes or may be keyed into memory on a numeric or alpha-numeric keyboard. The company offers employees an Associate Assistance Plan. The work place features casual business attire each Friday throughout the year and all week during summer. The Holtsville/Bohemia Campus features a fitness center and a dry cleaning service.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES:

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Dr. Jerome Swartz, CEO Tomo Razmilovic, Pres./COO Kenneth V. Jaeggi, Sr. VP/CFO Richard Bravman, Sr. VP-Sales/Mktg.-Wireless Systems Div. Allen Creveling, Sr. VP-Human Resources Joseph Katz, Sr. VP-Research and Dev. Richard M. Feldt, Sr. VP-Oper.

Phone: 516-738-2400 Fax: 516-738-5990 Toll-Free: Address: One Symbol Plaza, Holtsville, NY, 11742 Internet Address: www.symbol.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $977,900 1997 Sales: $774,300 1996 Sales: $656,700 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: SBL

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $93,000 1997 Profits: $70,200 1996 Profits: $50,300 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 3,700

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $849,185 Second Exec. Salary: $589,667

Bonus: $1,374,931 Bonus: $954,671

Has provided more than 2.5 million systems to a wide range of customers, from mega-retailer Wal-Mart to international shipper DHL.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Clarion Marketing & Communications, Inc., Greenwich, CT

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

516

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

SYMS CORP Industry Group Code: 45291 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 12

Profits: 9

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Syms

31,000-61,000

$7,814,955

Free-standing/In-line /Mall/Downtown

44

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Discount Stores, Retail Men's Tailored Clothes Women's dresses, suits and accessories Shoes Children's wear Luggage Fragrances

Syms Corporation operates a chain of 45 off-price retail stores that offer a broad range of first quality, in-season merchandise with nationally recognized designer or brandname labels at prices generally lower than department or specialty stores. The company directs its merchandising efforts at predominantly middle-income, fashion minded and price conscious customers. The Syms chain of apparel stores sells primarily men’s tailored clothing and haberdashery, women’s dresses, suits and separates, children’s apparel and men’s, women’s and children’s shoes. The company has seen a slowdown in growth, suffering a recent loss in sales of 3% and a 24% drop in net income, the first decrease in income in three years. Syms has enacted an aggressive plan to counter its disappointing financial results. Major investments have been made in the company’s marketing activity. The Syms Corporation is also closely analyzing the profitability of underperforming categories as it sees greater price competition from other retailers. The company has made significant investments in its MIS system to increase the speed and accuracy of information for purchases, distributions and points of sale. Changes in the company’s information system, include a revamping of the corporate website, which now offers employment information and an on-line resume form for both specific stores and corporate offices.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES:

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Marcy Syms, CEO Marcy Syms, Pres. Antone F. Moreira, VP/CFO Douglas C. Meyer, VP - Mktg., Advertising and Sales Promotion John Tyzbir, VP-Human Resources Jules D. Cohn, VP-MIS Ronald Zindman, Exec. VP/Mgr.-General Merch. Alen Brailsford, VP-Oper. Antone F. Moreira, Treas. Isabelle Regan, VP/Merch. Mgr.-Ladies' Sportswear and Accessories Myra Butensky, VP/Merch. Mgr.-Men's Tailored Clothing

Phone: 201-902-9600 Fax: 201-902-9278 Toll-Free: Address: Syms Way, Secaucus, NJ, 07094 Internet Address: www.symsclothing.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $343,900 1998 Sales: $353,000 1997 Sales: $346,800 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: SYM

1999 Profits: $17,400 1998 Profits: $23,000 1997 Profits: $19,100 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 2,300

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $824,988 Second Exec. Salary: $469,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Offers off-price, in-season merchandise.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 3 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Syms Advertising, Secaucus, NJ; Corinthian Media, Inc., New York, NY; ZAK Agency, New York, NY

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

517

SYNERGY BRANDS INC Industry Group Code: 453991 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Online sales

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Cigars, Retail Frozen squid distribution Prepaid phone cards Promotionally-priced grocery distribution Health and beauty aid distribution Internet sales

Formerly Krantor Corporation, Synergy Brands, Inc. operates in the cigar distribution, food distribution, health and beauty aid distribution and prepaid phone card businesses. The company, probably best known for its involvement in the cigar business, recently launched an online retailing effort with its Netcigar.com site. The site, which sells cigars and tobacco-related items, could change the company's main sales region from the Northeastern United States to the online community. Synergy Brands' health and beauty aid business is expanding in this manner as well with the company's recently instated health and beauty aid retailing website, BeautyBuys.com. Secondary to cigars and makeup, the company's relationship with a Chinese trading firm has enabled it to excel as it has distributed frozen squid and additional seafood and other foods. Due to past losses in the kosher food business, the company is currently replenishing its capital base through the squid distribution business and the grocery distribution business.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Netcigar.com BeautyBuys.com New Era Foods, Inc. Island Wholesale Groceries, Inc. PHS Group, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Henry J. Platek, Jr., CEO Henry J. Platek, Pres. Mair Faibish, Exec. VP/CFO Grace Sauer, Dir.- Human Resources Mitchell Gerstein, Treas.

Phone: 516-682-1980 Fax: 516-682-1989 Toll-Free: Address: 10850 Perry Way, Ste. 203, Wexford, PA, 15090 Internet Address: www.synergybrands.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $11,100 1997 Sales: $5,000 1996 Sales: $7,100 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: SYBR

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $ 300 1997 Profits: $ 200 1996 Profits: $-10,100 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

30

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $97,782 Second Exec. Salary: $62,927

Bonus: $ Bonus: $3,750

Expansion through the Internet/Expansion into seafood markets.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

518

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

SYSTEMAX INC Industry Group Code: 45411 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 5

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 4

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Direct marketing only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Computer and Software Retailing

Global DirectMail Corp., having recently changed its name to Systemax Inc., is a direct marketer of over 40,000 products, including brand name and private label personal desktop computers, notebook computers, computer related products, office products and industrial products in North America and Europe. In addition, the company assembles build-to-order PCs in North America under the brand names Midwest Micro, Ultra, Tiger and Systemax. The company emphasizes a broad selection of in-stock products, frequent mailings of a variety of distinctively branded full color catalogs, extensive customer service and prompt, complete order fulfillment. The company markets its products to businesses through mailings of its full-line and specialty catalogs and through outbound telemarketing. The company targets individuals at major account customers, mid-sized business, small office/home office customers and value added resellers. Value added resellers select, install and maintain PCs and networks for business customers who do not have their own computer technicians. The company recently announced an acquisition of privately held Dabus Dataprodukter AB, a computer and computer supplies direct marketer located in Lidkoping, Sweden. In addition, the company acquired privately held computer products and Internet marketer Simply Computers Limited of London, England. Global has also formed a new subsidiary EZbid, Inc. EZbid will sell PCs, PC accessories, software, data com products, digital cameras and consumer products, through an auction site located on the Internet at www.ezbid.com.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: 06 Software Centre Europe B.V. Infotel, Inc. Dabus Dataprodukter AB Simply Computers Limited EZbid, Inc. Systemax Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Richard Leeds, CEO Steven M. Goldschien, Sr. VP/CFO Robert Dooley, Sr. VP-Sales and Mktg. Howard Kohos, Chief Acc. Officer/Corp. Controller

Phone: 516-625-1555 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 22 Harbor Park Drive, Port Washington, NY, 11050 Internet Address: www.globaldirectmail.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $1,435,700 1997 Sales: $1,145,400 1996 Sales: $911,900 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: SYX

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $41,300 1997 Profits: $38,800 1996 Profits: $43,700 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 3,135

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $300,000 Second Exec. Salary: $275,600

Bonus: $ Bonus: $100,000

Utilizes catalogs, telemarketing and the Internet/Offers a broad product selection.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

519

TALBOTS INC (THE) Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 9

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Talbots Woman Talbots Kids Talbots Petites Talbots Outlet

2,700-3,500 2,500

Talbots Accessories & Shoes Talbots Misses

1,900 3,500-6,500

Profits: 28

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Mall/Free-standing/In-line Mall/Free-standing/In-line Mall/Free-standing/In-line Mall/Free-standing/In-line/Outlet mall Mall/Free-standing/In-line Malls/Free-standing

1 57 140 19 33 388

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel-Women's, Retail Children's apparel Shoes Catalog sales Retail stores Accessories

The Talbots, Inc. is a leading national specialty retailer and cataloger of women’s and children’s classic apparel, accessories and shoes. Talbots stores and catalogs offer a distinctive collection of classic sportswear, casual wear, dresses, coats, sweaters, accessories and shoes, consisting primarily of Talbots own private label merchandise in misses and petite sizes. Talbots Kids & Babies stores and catalogs offer an assortment of high quality classic clothing and accessories for infants, toddlers, boys and girls. The company operates its stores and catalogs as an integrated business and provides the same personalized service to its customers regardless of whether merchandise is purchased through its stores or catalogs. The company operates 603 stores in 44 states, the District of Columbia, Canada and the United Kingdom. This number includes 374 Talbots Misses stores, 125 Talbots Petite stores, 32 Talbots Accessories & Shoes stores, 60 Talbots Kids stores and 12 Talbots Outlet stores. A top-notch specialty retailer, Talbots offers excellent jobs in sales, management, buying and distribution.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Talbots Kids Talbots Intimates Classics That Work Talbots Petites Talbots Misses Talbots Accessories & Shoes JUSCO, Inc. JUSCO Co., Ltd./AEON Group

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Arnold B. Zetcher, Pres./CEO Mark Shulman, Exec. VP/COO Edward L. Larsen, Sr. VP-Finance/CFO Mary R. Pasciucco, Sr. VP-Catalog Dev. and Advertising Stuart M. Stolper, Sr. VP-Human Resources J. Bruce Ash, Sr. VP-MIS Mark Shulman, Chief Merch. Officer Richard T. O'Connell Jr., Sr. VP-Legal and Real Estate Edward L. Larsen, Treas.

Phone: 781-749-7600 Fax: 781-741-4369 Toll-Free: 800-825-2687 Address: 175 Beal Street, Hingham, MA, 02043 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $1,142,200 1998 Sales: $1,053,800 1997 Sales: $1,018,800 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: TLB

1999 Profits: $36,700 1998 Profits: $5,800 1997 Profits: $63,600 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 8,300

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $718,500 Second Exec. Salary: $367,981

Bonus: $195,600 Bonus: $

A leading specialty retailer/Clothes focus on achieving a classic look/Has developed different store concepts for different markets.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 8 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 4 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Churchill Advertising Agency, Hingham, MA

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

520

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

TANDY CORP Industry Group Code: 443 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 3

Profits: 4

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

RadioShack

2,200

$681,067

Mall/In-line

5,039 company-owned; 1,991 franchised

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Electronics, Audio, and Appliance Stores-Retail Cellular telephone sales and retail distribution (Sprint PCS) Internet services retail sales and distribution (Northpoint Comm.) Audio and video equipment distribution (Sony and Radio Shack) Personal computer sales (Compaq)

Tandy Corporation is one of the largest retailers of consumer electronics in the United States, selling its products through approximately 7,000 Radio Shack stores nationwide. The firm recently sold its Computer City stores and has closed its Incredible Universe stores. Radio Shack carries a broad assortment of major brand name and private label electronic parts and accessories, audio/video equipment, digital satellite systems, personal computers and cellular and conventional telephones, scanners, electronic toys and hard-to-find batteries. Radio Shack plans to expand its company owned-store base to 5,000 locations by the year 2000 (many stores are franchised). Radio Shack is also focusing on the introduction of the Sprint Store at RadioShack. In early 1998, the company signed an exclusive multi-year retail sales and service agreement with Compaq Computer Corporation to replace IBM with Compaq as the sole supplier of computers sold through all of RadioShack’s company-owned stores and those dealer/franchise outlets which elected to participate. The firm's strength today lies in its new strategy of creating strategic alliances with makers of well known and popular brands. In exchange for exclusive nationwide distribution through 7,000 Radio Shack stores, companies like Compaq and Sprint pay Radio Shack handsome fees and royalties. In addition to selling personal computers and cellular phone service through such deals, Radio Shack offers Internet service (through Northpoint Communications Group) as well as television, audio and video equipment made by Sony. Radio Shack strives to become a friendly neighborhood store where consumers can get expert advise and top of the line, name-brand equipment and services. Tandy Corporation's recent same store sales increase indicates the success of its strategy. Company employees may use the on-site fitness center at a reduced cost, and receive day care center discounts.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Radio Shack Sprint Store at Radio Shack

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Leonard H. Roberts, CEO Leonard H. Roberts, Pres. Dwain H. Hughes, CFO/Sr. VP George J. Berger, VP-Human Resources Evelyn V. Follit, CIO Marck C. Hill, Corp. Sec. Ronald L. Parrish, VP-Corp. Dev.

Phone: 817-415-3700 Fax: 817-415-2647 Toll-Free: Address: 100 Throckmorton St., Ste. 1800, Fort Worth, TX, 76102 Internet Address: www.tandy.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $4,787,900 1997 Sales: $5,372,200 1996 Sales: $6,285,500 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: TAN

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $61,300 1997 Profits: $-186,900 1996 Profits: $-91,600 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 48,400

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $810,000 Second Exec. Salary: $610,000

Bonus: $810,000 Bonus: $610,000

Nationwide chain/Alliances with major name brand manufacturers and service providers.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 3 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Central Advertising Agency, Fort Worth, TX

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

521

THREE D DEPARTMENTS INC Industry Group Code: 44229 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 8

Profits: 9

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Three D Bed & Bath Linens Plus Three D Bed Linens Plus + More

25,000 25,000 25,000 25,000

$1,788,543 $1,788,543 $1,788,543 $1,788,543

In-line In-line In-line In-line

21 stores total incl. in above number incl. in above number incl. in above number

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Linens/Housewares, Retail Home textiles Decorative accessories Bedding

Three D Departments, Inc. operates a chain of retail specialty home textiles and decorative houseware products. The company's stores, which number 21, operate under the titles Three D Bed & Bath, Three D Bed, Bath & More, Linens Plus, and Linens Plus + More. Stores offer a broad selection of sometimes hard-to-find merchandise, including high-quality silk flowers, decorative vases, candle holders and picture frames. Glass showcases the coordinating elements of the company's versatile bed and bath product line. The company, which is currently operating under Chapter 11 Bankruptcy, is converting several of its existing stores to a superstore prototype while select others have closed. This superstore prototype entails prominent featuring of decorative accessories, a racetrack-patterned pathway and 25,000 square feet of space. Six of Three D Departments' bed and bath stores will be converted to this format during fiscal 1999, subject to the availability of funds, while two bed and bath stores will close.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Three D Bed, Bath & More Linens Plus Three D Bed & Bath Linens Plus + More

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Donald L. Abrams, CEO Steven R. Kerkstra, COO Steven Kerkstra, CFO Ronald Dow, Controller Ronald Dow, Treas.

Phone: 714-662-0818 Fax: 714-545-8937 Toll-Free: Address: 3535 Hyland Avenue, Suite 200, Costa Mesa, CA, 92626 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $37,559 1997 Sales: $44,182 1996 Sales: $47,851 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: TDDB

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-7,437 1997 Profits: $-1,677 1996 Profits: $- 945 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

496

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $226,103 Second Exec. Salary: $157,695

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Superstore prototype is a 25,000 sq. foot rectangular store designed in a racetrack format.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

522

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

TIFFANY & CO Industry Group Code: 44831 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Profits: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Tiffany & Co.

800-16,000

$8,358,253

Mall/In-line

126

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Jewelry, Retail Mail-order Sterling silverware China Crystal Stationery Timepieces Wholesale

Tiffany & Co. is a jeweler and specialty retailer that offers an extensive line of products, including fine jewelry, timepieces, sterling silverware, china, crystal, stationery, writing instruments, fragrances, leather goods, scarves and ties. Founded in 1837, Tiffany has grown to become one of the world’s most respected jewelry retailers. Tiffany & Co. considers its primary advantage over its competition to be the exceptional design, quality and value of its merchandise. Tiffany & Co. recently celebrated a milestone as the company’s sales surpassed the billiondollar mark for the first time as net sales increased 10% over the previous year. The company’s growth strategy focuses on expansion of its distribution to become more accessible to more customers around the world, merchandise offerings that are immediately recognizable as distinctive and of the finest quality, and compelling marketing of the company’s competitive advantages. If you want to learn upscale retailing, this is an excellent place to work.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Tiffany & Co. Tiffany Tiffany For Men Trueste

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. William R. Chaney, CEO Michael J. Kowalski, COO/Pres. James N. Fernandez, CFO/Sr. VP-Finance Caroline D. Naggiar, Sr. VP-Mktg. Fernanda M. Kellog, Sr. VP-Public Relations Beth O. Canavan, Sr. VP-U.S. Retail Sales

Phone: 212-755-8000 Fax: 212-605-4465 Toll-Free: Address: 727 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY, 10022 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $1,169,200 1998 Sales: $1,017,600 1997 Sales: $922,100 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: TIF

1999 Profits: $90,100 1998 Profits: $72,800 1997 Profits: $58,400 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 4,360

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $636,172 Second Exec. Salary: $466,628

Bonus: $780,000 Bonus: $337,500

International name recognition/Reputation for high-quality merchandise.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 19 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 9 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

523

TIME WARNER INC Industry Group Code: 5132 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store:

Warner Bros.

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Mall

140

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Film entertainment Television production Theme parks Cable programming Magazine publishing Music production

Time Warner Entertainment, Inc. is the world’s leading media and entertainment company. Its principal business objective is to create and distribute branded information and entertainment copyrights throughout the world. Time Warner’s business classifications consist of: Entertainment, including interests in recorded music and music publishing, filmed entertainment, television production, television broadcasting and theme parks; Cable Networks, including interests in cable television programming and sports franchises; Publishing, including interests in magazine publishing, book publishing and direct marketing; and Cable, including interests in cable television systems. The company owns Looney Tunes, Flintstones and Batman trademarks, as well as a 49 percent interest in Six Flags, the largest regional theme park operator in the U.S., and Time Magazine, People and other magazine franchises. CDNOW, Inc., a leader in music and video commerce, content and community, has entered into a definitive agreement with Sony Corporation of America and Time Warner Inc. to merge with Columbia House, the leading club-based direct marketer of music and videos, which is owned equally by Sony Corporation and Time Warner Inc. Percent female for Home Box Office, a division of Time Warner: VPs 27%; managers and higher officials 48%; professional staff 51%. The Company reimburses child care costs for nonroutine business travel. Allows up to 24 weeks maternity leave, 1 week paid Paternity leave. Phase-back for new mothers. Adoption aid benefits of up to $2,500 with 1 week paid leave.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Time, Inc. Warner Bros. Six Flags Home Box Office Turner Broadcasting System Cable News Network Time Warner Cable Atlanta Braves

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Gerald M Levin, CEO Richard D. Parsons, Pres. Joseph A. Ripp, Sr. VP/CFO Carolyn McLandless, VP-Corp. Human Resources

Phone: 212-484-8000 Fax: 212-956-2847 Toll-Free: Address: 75 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY, 10019 Internet Address: www.timewarner.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $13,294,000 1997 Sales: $10,064,000 1996 Sales: $8,067,000 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: TWX

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $246,000 1997 Profits: $-191,000 1996 Profits: $-166,000 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 67,900

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $1,000,000 Second Exec. Salary: $700,000

Bonus: $7,800,000 Bonus: $6,000,000

Aggressive growth through acquisitions./Owns some of the best names in publishing and programming.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

524

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

TJX COMPANIES INC Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 3

Profits: 3

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

T.J. Maxx Marshalls Winners Apparel Ltd. HomeGoods T.K. Maxx A.J. Wright

29,000 31,000 27,000 23,000-36,000 25,000 28,000

$6,118,965 $7,082,429 $4,302,631 $4,260,869 $5,000,000

In-line In-line

604 575 87 35 39 6

Free-standing/In-line

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel Stores, Retail Discount stores Mail order-women's apparel Women's shoes Fine jewelry Giftware Domestics

TJX Companies, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, is one of the largest off-price apparel retailers in the world. The company operates over 604 T. J. Maxx stores, 575 Marshalls stores, 6 AJ Wright stores and Winners Apparel Ltd, a Canadian off-price family apparel chain with 87 stores. TJX also operates Home Goods, a U.S. off-price home fashion chain with 35 stores and T.K. Maxx, an offprice family apparel concept in the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland with 39 stores. The company has plans to expand its T. K. Maxx chain in the U.K. by 10 stores and open two stores in the Netherlands in the next year, the company also plans to expand its rapidly growing Winners Apparel chain by opening 12 stores in the next few years. In addition, the T. J. Maxx and Marshalls stores will see a combined increase of approximately 3540 new stores per year with 10 stores closing annually over the next several years. Also, TJX plans to open 15 new AJ Wright stores in 1999. This has been one of the fastest-growing retailers in the nation over the mid-term.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: T.J. Maxx T.K. Maxx Chadwick's of Boston Winners Apparel Ltd. HomeGoods Marshalls AJ Wright

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Bernard Cammarata, Pres./CEO Richard G. Lesser, Exec. VP/COO Donald G. Campbell, Exec. VP-Finance/CFO

Phone: 508-390-1000 Fax: 508-390-3635 Toll-Free: 800-285-6299 Address: 770 Cochituate Road, Framingham, MA, 01701 Internet Address: www.tjx.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $7,949,100 1998 Sales: $7,389,100 1997 Sales: $6,689,400 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: TJX

1999 Profits: $424,200 1998 Profits: $304,800 1997 Profits: $363,100 1996 Profits: $51,589 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 59,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $1,223,077 Second Exec. Salary: $882,693

Bonus: $1,110,236 Bonus: $667,713

Largest off-price apparel retailer in the world/Rapid expansion through new store openings.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 24 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 2 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Ingalls, Boston, MA; Sanchez & Levitan, Inc., Miami, FL; Hill Holiday, Boston, MA;

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

525

TODAY'S MAN INC Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 31

Profits: 40

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Today's Man

18,000-34,000

$8,544,360

In-line/Free-standing

25

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel-Men's, Retail Shoes/accessories Furnishings Sportswear

Today’s Man, Inc. is a leading operator of menswear superstores specializing in tailored clothing, furnishings, sportswear and shoes. The company operates a chain of 25 superstores in the Greater Philadelphia, New York and Washington D.C. markets. The company offers a broad and deep assortment of moderate to better, currentseason, brand-name and private label merchandise at low prices, which the company can offer through large volumes of preplanned inventory purchases and lower initial price markups. The big news for Today’s Man, Inc. is its recent emergence from Chapter 11 protection; the turnaround included posting six consecutive quarters of comparable store sales increases. Following the company’s renewed profitability Today’s Man has announced the opening of two new stores in the Washington, D.C. area, which the company describes as a vibrant menswear market.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES:

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. David Feld, CEO/Pres. Frank E. Johnson, CFO/Exec. VP Leonard Wasserman, Exec. VP-Oper. Larry Feld, VP-Store Dev.

Phone: 609-235-5656 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 835 Lancer Drive, Moorestown, NJ, 08057 Internet Address: www.todaysman.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $213,600 1998 Sales: $214,100 1997 Sales: $204,000 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: TMANQ

1999 Profits: $4,200 1998 Profits: $-4,300 1997 Profits: $-5,800 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,312

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $300,000 Second Exec. Salary: $250,000

Bonus: $54,088 Bonus: $119,713

Focus on men's clothing at low prices.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Hampel/Stefanides, New York, NY

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

526

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

TOPS APPLIANCE CITY INC Industry Group Code: 443 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 10

Profits: 13

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Tops Appliance City Electronics.net LLC

20,000-120,000 Internet only

$34,793,000

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores: 9

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Electronics, Audio, and Appliance Stores, Retail Computers Air conditioners Stereo systems Televisions Ranges/microwaves Home fitness products Internet sales

General Tops Appliance City, Inc. is a leading retailer of home appliances and consumer electronics in New Jersey and New York, serving a customer base within the Greater New York Metropolitan area. The company operates seven retail megastores in heavily populated locations in New Jersey and New York. The company also operates a commercial division , selling to small independent retailers, builders and landlords, corporate buying groups, major corporations and municipalities. Tops' stores display a broad selection of high quality, nationally recognized brand names in each of its categories. The company's primary products include major appliances such as refrigerators, washers and dryers, electronics including televisions, VCRs, camcorders, room air conditioners, consumer electronics, home and car audio equipment, home office products, small electronic appliances, and other related products such as vacuum cleaners, seasonal goods, housewares, related accessories and extended service plans. The company maintains a knowledgeable, well-trained sales force which builds and reinforces customer confidence in Tops' valuedriven merchandising strategy. As part of this strategy, the company offers a number of customer services such as home delivery and removal of old appliances. Tops emphasizes competitive pricing in its advertising and guarantees the lowest price on its products through a 45 day best price guarantee.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES:

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Robert Gross, CEO Richard L. Jones, Pres./COO Thomas Zambelli, Sr. VP/CFO

Phone: 732-248-2850 Fax: 732-248-2731 Toll-Free: Address: 45 Brunswick Avenue, Edison, NJ, 08818 Internet Address: www.topsappliances.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $290,400 1997 Sales: $293,900 1996 Sales: $316,600 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: TOPS

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-1,100 1997 Profits: $ 1 1996 Profits: $-19,400 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,025

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $300,000 Second Exec. Salary: $225,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Operates eight stores in heavily populated locations in New Jersey and New York.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

527

TOSCO CORP Industry Group Code: 44512 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 2

Annual Sales Per Store:

76 Circle K British Petroleum Exxon

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line

5,070 incl. in above number incl. in above number incl. in above number

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Convenience Stores-Retail Car wash Petroleum products-wholesale and retail

Tosco Corporation, the largest independent refiner and marketer of petroleum products in the United States, operates principally on the East and West Coasts of the United States. Following the company’s recent acquisition from Union Oil Company of California, Tosco currently operates eight refineries with the capacity to process approximately 950,000 barrels per day of crude oil, feedstocks and blendstocks into various petroleum products. Tosco’s Trainer Refinery recently underwent an approximately $100 million modernization and upgrading program, allowing the previously shut down refinery to resume full operation. The company additionally purchased the 76 products terminal and pipeline distribution system, expanding upon the acquisition of The Circle K Corporation as a part of the recent Union Oil Company of California acquisition. This placed Tosco as the nation’s largest operator of company-controlled convenience stores. The company sells over 4.6 billion gallons of fuel annually through its retail distribution network, and plans to further expand its location base in the future.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: British Petroleum Exxon--Arizona Circle K 76 Products Company Tosco Refining Company Tosco Marketing Company Avon Refinery Bayway Refinery

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Thomas D. O'Malley, Pres./CEO Jefferson F. Allen, Pres. Jefferson F. Allen, CFO Robert J. Lavinia, Exec.VP-Mktg. Wanda Williams, VP-Human Resources Richard W. Reinken, VP/CIO

Phone: 203-977-1000 Fax: 203-964-3187 Toll-Free: Address: 72 Cummings Point Road, Stamford, CT, 06902 Internet Address: www.tosco.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $12,021,500 1997 Sales: $13,281,600 1996 Sales: $9,922,600 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: TOS

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $106,200 1997 Profits: $212,700 1996 Profits: $146,300 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 26,200

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $650,000 Second Exec. Salary: $450,000

Bonus: $4,413,155 Bonus: $2,291,445

One of the largest operators of company-owned convenience stores in the U.S.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 2 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

528

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

TOTAL SYSTEM SERVICES INC Industry Group Code: 52232A Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 3

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Columbus Depot Equipment Company TSYS Total Solutions, Inc. Columbus Productions, Inc. TSYS Canada, Inc.

Direct marketing only

Profits: 3

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Direct marketing only Direct marketing only Direct marketing only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Credit Card Processing, Retail

Established in 1983 as an outgrowth of an on-line accounting and bank card data processing system developed for Columbus Bank and Trust Company, TSYS is one of the world's largest credit, debit, commercial and private-label card processing companies. TSYS provides an on-line system of data processing services, representing approximately 93 million cardholder accounts. TSYS provides card production, domestic and international clearing, statement preparation, customer service support and management support. During 1997, TSYS had four wholly owned subsidiaries: (1) Columbus Depot Equipment, which sells and leases computer related equipment associated with TSYS bank card data processing services; (2) Mailtek, Inc., which provides fullservice direct mail production services and offers data processing, list management, laser printing, computer output microfiche, card embossing, encoding and mailing services; (3) TSYS Total Solutions, Inc., which provides correspondence, fulfillment, telemarketing, data processing and mailing services; and (4) Columbus Productions, Inc., which provides full-service commercial printing and related services. In the first quarter of 1999, TSYS successfully converted 25 million Sears credit card accounts to TS2, its state-of-the-art, Year 2000-compliant card-processing system. These accounts, the second part of a three-phase conversion, represent 36% of the Sears private-label card portfolio.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Mailtek, Inc. Lincoln Marketing, Inc. Columbus Productions, Inc. THE TOTAL SYSTEM Columbus Depot Equipment Company Synovus Financial Corp. Vital Processing Services, LLC DynaMark

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Richard W. Ussery, CEO Philip W. Tomlinson, Pres. James B. Lipham, Exec. VP/CFO Helen Johnson, Dir.-Human Resources

Phone: 706-649-2310 Fax: 706-649-4499 Toll-Free: Address: 1200 Sixth Ave., Columbus, GA, 31901 Internet Address: www.totalsystem.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $396,200 1997 Sales: $361,500 1996 Sales: $311,600 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: TSS

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $54,800 1997 Profits: $47,500 1996 Profits: $39,400 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 3,935

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $444,200 Second Exec. Salary: $383,400

Bonus: $276,250 Bonus: $219,000

Has grown to be one of the world's largest credit card processing companies/Joint ventures with Visa and DynaMark.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 4 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

529

TOYS R US INC Industry Group Code: 45112C Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Profits: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Toys 'R' Us Kids 'R' Us Toys 'R' Us-International Babies 'R' Us Toys 'R' Us Direct

46,000 15,500-21,500 46,000 38,000-42,000 Mail-order only

$9,348,011 $4,901,538 $6,628,319 $4,901,538

Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line Free-Standing/In-Line Free-standing/In-line

704 212 452 113

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Toys, Retail Children's clothing superstores

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Toys 'R' Us Kids 'R' Us Babies 'R' Us Toys 'R' Us-United States Toys 'R' Us-International Books 'R' Us KidsWorld

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Robert Nakasone, CEO Mike Shannon, Pres.-U.S. Toy Store Div. Louis Lipschitz, CFO Warren Cornblum, VP-Mktg. Roger C. Gaston, Sr. VP-Human Resources Thomas J. Reinebach, CIO Ray Arthur, VP/Corp. Controller Jim Feldt, VP-Merch. Michael J. Madden, Pres.-Oper., U.S. Toy Store Div. Francesca Brockett, Sr. VP-Business Dev. and Planning Bob Moog, CEO-Toysrus.com Richard L. Markee, Pres.-Kids R Us and Babies R Us Div. Gregory R. Staley, Pres.-Toys R Us Int'l Div.

Phone: 201-262-7800

Fax: 201-262-7606, 201-2628112 (Mgr. of HR)

Toll-Free: Address: 461 From Road, Paramus, NJ, 07652 Internet Address: www.toysrus.com Notes/Other Info:

Toys 'R' Us, Inc. is the world’s largest children’s specialty retail chain, with 1,486 stores in 27 countries. The company plans to expand its Babies 'R' Us chain by adding 20 new stores in 1999. Toys 'R' Us, in partnership with the National Lekotek Center, produces the Toy Guide for Differently-Abled Kids, featuring toys that have been tested and evaluated based on ten developmental categories. The Guide is designed to assist parents, families, and friends in making informed decisions about toy selection for children with special needs. Toys 'R' Us recently acquired Baby Superstore, Inc. Toysrus.com features a bestsellers list, a baby gift registry and a birthday reminder service. A new buy here/pick up there service makes it simple for customers to order selected large, bulk items for family members or friends who live far away. Current plans include Concept 2000, a store redesign program, an exclusive product development program headed by a principal of Fisher-Price, LJN, Matchbox, V-Tech and Toy Biz, and an increased focus towards the company’s database marketing program. Toys ’R’ Us believes that database marketing will become an increasingly powerful tool. Plans exist to remodel at least 500 stores over the next two years, with less inventory clogging the aisles, a more shopper-friendly atmosphere, a clearance sale section and a greater emphasis on electronic games. Toys 'R' Us maintains a company-wide giving program focused on improving the health-care needs of children by supporting many national and regional chidlren's health care organizations. The company has also recently expanded its Hospital Playroom Program and it donates millions of dollars in toys annualy to children with special needs and to the Marine Corps' Toys for Tots program. Toys R Us is signatory to a Fair Share Agreement with the NAACP, and has taken steps to support women and minorities in the workplace. It is the leading purchaser of products from several minority-owned toy companies.

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $11,170,000 1998 Sales: $11,038,000 1997 Sales: $9,932,400 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

1999 Profits: $-132,000 1998 Profits: $490,000 1997 Profits: $427,400 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Stock Ticker: TOY Employees: 116,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE: OTHER THOUGHTS:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $884,615 Second Exec. Salary: $432,692

Bonus: $96,328 Bonus: $8,148

Tremendous buying power for a vast network of stores, including locations in 23 foreign nations.

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes)

Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 12 West: Southwest: Midwest: Southeast: Northeast: y y y y y Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Quantum Media International, Inc., New York, NY Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

International: y

530

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

TRACK N TRAIL Industry Group Code: 4482 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 9

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Track 'n Trail Overland Trading Eagles Nest

1,969 1,488 5,160

Profits: 8

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

$580,000

Mall Mall Mall

141 46 5

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Shoes/Accessories, Retail

Track ‘n Trail is one of the nation’s largest full-service specialty retailers, focusing on a broad range of brand name casual, outdoor and adventure footwear and apparel. The company currently operates 192 stores in 36 states under the Track ‘n Trail, Overland Trading and Eagles Nest names. With the exception of the company’s three outlet stores, all of the company’s stores are located in regional or super-regional shopping malls, concentrated in California, the Midwest and the Northeast. Each store offers a wide range of rugged walking and fashion casual shoes, sandals and boots, featuring brands such as Timberland, Dr. Martens, Birkenstock, Vans, Teva, Airwalk, Clarks, Ecco and Rockport. The company opened 42 stores in the last year, including five Eagles Nest stores acquired late in the year. Track ‘n Trail has reported lower income from the last fiscal year due to declining store sales, which the company believes were due to an unseasonably cold spring and warm fall together with competitor close-out sales driving prices down.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Track 'n Trail Adventure Footwear Company Overland Trading Company

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Gregory M. Kilgore, Pres./COO Daniel J. Nahmens, CFO/VP-Finance John E. Wilkinson, Exec. VP-Mktg. Daniel J. Nahmens, Treas. David T. Morgan, VP-Real Estate William Forsberg, VP-Stores

Phone: 916-933-4525 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 4961-A Windplay, El Dorado Hills, CA, 95762 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $99,900 1997 Sales: $91,800 1996 Sales: $66,200 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: TKTL

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $ 400 1997 Profits: $5,200 1996 Profits: $4,400 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,560

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $161,293 Second Exec. Salary: $124,861

Bonus: $52,524 Bonus: $52,186

Focus on outdoor footwear/rapid expansion.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

531

TRACTOR SUPPLY COMPANY Industry Group Code: 4400 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Profits: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Tractor Supply Co.

24,000-28,000

$2,472,016

Free-standing

243

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Farming Equipment, Retail Animal products General maintenance products Lawn and garden products Light truck equipment Work clothing

Tractor Supply Company is a specialty retailer which supplies the daily farming and maintenance needs of its target customers: hobby, part-time and full-time farmers and ranchers, as well as suburban customers, contractors and tradesmen. The company has one of the largest retail farm store chains in the U.S. Tractor Supply Company's 243 stores, located in 26 states, range in size from 12,000 to 14,000 square feet of inside selling space, and utilize at least as many square feet of outside selling space. Stores are located in rural communities and in the outlying areas of large cities where farming is a significant factor in the local economy. Each store displays a selection of over 12,000 different products, including farm maintenance products, animal products, general maintenance products, lawn and garden products, light truck equipment and work clothing. The company has recently gone through a large remodeling project for all existing stores. The changes include an increase in equine and pet maintenance products, animal health products and clothing. The remodeling effort was preceded by a year of financial loss for Tractor Supply Company. However, following the remodeling of its stores, the company reported record gains in sales and profits and has plans to open 30 more stores this year.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES:

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Joseph H. Scarlett, Jr., CEO/Pres. Thomas O. Flood, CFO/Sr. VP-Admin. and Finance Gerald W. Brase, Sr. VP-Mktg. Daisy L. Vanderline, VP-Human Resources James R. McMurray, CIO Gerald W. Brase, Sr. VP-Merch. Michael E. Brown, Sr. VP-Oper. Lawrence Goldberg, VP-Logistics

Phone: 615-366-4600 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 320 Plus Park Boulevard, Nashville, TN, 37217 Internet Address: www.tractorsupplyco.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $600,700 1997 Sales: $509,100 1996 Sales: $449,000 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: TSCO

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $14,800 1997 Profits: $11,800 1996 Profits: $13,200 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 2,900

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $374,039 Second Exec. Salary: $210,000

Bonus: $300,000 Bonus: $105,000

Focuses its product mix on full- and part-time farmers.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Buntin Out of Home Media, Nashville, TN

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

532

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

TRAK AUTO CORPORATION Industry Group Code: 4413 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 7

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Trak Stores Super Trak Warehouse Stores Super Trak Stores

5,000-6,000 11,000-24,000 6,000-11,000

Profits: 8

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores: 68 26 87

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Auto Parts, Retail

Trak Auto Corporation operates retail discount auto parts stores in the metropolitan areas of Washington, D.C.; Richmond, Virginia; Chicago, Illinois; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and central Pennsylvania. The company sells a wide range of automobile parts and accessories for the do-it-yourself market, including alternators, starters, shock absorbers, fan belts, spark plugs, mufflers, thermostats and wheel bearings, as well as motor oil, oil filters, headlights, batteries, waxes, polishes, anti-freeze and windshield wipers. Trak Auto Corporation's three store types include Classic Trak stores, which carry 10,000 different stock keeping units; Super Trak stores, which carry approximately 15,000 different SKUs; and Super Trak Warehouse stores carrying approximately 35,000 SKUs. The company recently sold its operations in Los Angeles, California and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; the two markets together comprised over 100 of the company's stores. Over the past five years, the company has gone from 314 stores to only 181. Trak Auto Corporation was recently acquired by the Dart Group Corporation, which now controls 67.1% of the company's stock.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Trak Corporation Super Trak Corporation Trak DHC Corporation Dart Group Corporation

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Herbert H. Haft, CEO R. Keith Green, Pres. David B. MacGlashan, CFO/Exec. VP Robert H. Thomas, Sr. VP-Oper.

Phone: 310-226-1200 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 3300 75th Avenue, Landover, MD, 20785 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $221,600 1998 Sales: $319,400 1997 Sales: $346,000 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: TRKA

1999 Profits: $1,200 1998 Profits: $-17,700 1997 Profits: $1,100 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 2,500

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $340,200 Second Exec. Salary: $259,800

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Has stores located in large metropolitan markets.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

533

TRANS WORLD ENTERTAINMENT CORP Industry Group Code: 45122A Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Record Town Music World Saturday Matinee Record Town & Saturday Matinee For Your Entertainment Strawberries/Waxie Maxie

3,300-7,500 1,200 2,200 8,000 27,100 3,000-8,000

Profits: 3

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Mall Mall Mall Mall Mall Free-Standing/StripMall/Downtown

161 16 37 92 combo stores 7 90

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Music Stores, Retail Video stores Internet commerce

Trans World Entertainment Corporation operates a chain of retail entertainment stores selling compact discs, prerecorded audio cassettes, prerecorded videocassettes and related accessories. The company operates a total of 539 stores in 34 states, the District of Columbia and the Virgin Islands, with the majority of the stores concentrated in the Eastern half of the United States. Trans World Entertainment has a total of five mall store concepts. Record Town and Tape World offer audio products, Saturday Matinee offers video products, and F.Y.E. offers music and video products with portable electronics and an in-store arcade. The company also uses a combination Record Town/Saturday Matinee concept to attract different target customers. Trans World Entertainment has begun expanding into several non-mall concepts including Coconuts, Strawberries, MoviesPlus and Planet Music, which offer a larger selection than the mall stores. The company recently acquired 90 out of a total of 118 stores owned by Strawberries, Inc., a privately held non-mall music specialty retailer operating in New England. The company recently announced an important merger with Camelot Music Holdings, Inc., an agreement which will create the nation’s largest mall-based music retailing company with market capitalization in excess of $1 billion dollars.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Record Town, Inc. Music World Coconuts Music & Movies Saturday Matinee F.Y.E., For Your Entertainment Movies Plus Tape World Camelot Music Holdings

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Robert J. Higgins, CEO Robert J. Higgins, Pres. John J. Sullivan, CFO/Sr. VP-Finance James A. Litwak, Exec. VP-Mktg. Carol A. Stevens, Sr. VP-Human Resources James A. Litwak, Exec. VP-Merch. Edward W. Marshall, Exec. VP-Oper. Bruce J. Eisenberg, Sr. VP-Real Estate

Phone: 518-452-1242 Fax: 518-452-3547 Toll-Free: Address: 38 Corporate Circle, Albany, NY, 12203 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $698,500 1998 Sales: $571,300 1997 Sales: $481,657 1996 Sales: $517,046 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: TWMC

1999 Profits: $40,600 1998 Profits: $20,600 1997 Profits: $7,102 1996 Profits: $-25,373 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 6,100

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $575,000 Second Exec. Salary: $289,808

Bonus: $920,000 Bonus: $228,000

Massive chain of music stores.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Media Logic, Inc., Albany, NY

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

534

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

TRANS-LUX CORPORATION Industry Group Code: 3341B Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 5

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Gaslight Twin Cinema

operates 38 screens total incl. in above number incl. in above number incl. in above number

Lake Dillon Cinema Fourplex Storyteller Theatre Twelveplex

Profits: 5

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores: 10 total incl. in above number incl. in above number incl. in above number

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Electronic Information Displays, Retail Motion picture theaters Data, graphics and picture displays

Trans-Lux Corporation is a manufacturer, distributor and servicer of large-scale, multi-color, real-time electronic information displays. These indoor and outdoor displays are used worldwide in many industries including, financial, banking, gaming, corporate, retail, healthcare, sports and transportation. The company provides high quality, reliable display products configured to suit its customers’ needs, and offers extensive on-site service and maintenance coverage. Its product line encompasses a wide range of state-of-the-art electronic displays in various shape, size, and color configurations. In addition, TransLux owns and operates a chain of motion picture theaters in the southwestern United States and real estate used for corporate and income-producing purposes. Recent business endeavors include the introduction of DisplayConnection, an electronic display system that combines bright, high-resolution LED display capabilities with dynamic data delivery via the Internet. It automatically blends snapshots of news and financial information with marketing messages and downloads them for display. Trans-Lux announced that its whollyowned subsidiary, Trans-Lux Summit Corporation, commenced building a six-screen luxury theater complex in the Dillon ridge Marketplace development in Colorado. The company will have a total of ten screens in Summit County, CO. Recently, the firm acquired Fairtron Corporation, a manufacturer of scoreboards and related signage.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Integrated Systems Engineering, Inc. The Entertainment and Real Estate Division Trans-Lux Trans-Lux Vision Writer Trans-Lux Message Centers DisplayConnection

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Victor Liss, CEO Victor Liss, Pres. Angela D. Toppi, Sr. VP/CFO Thomas F. Mahoney, Sr. VP-Sales Karl P. Hirschauer, Sr. VP-Engineering

Phone: 203-853-4321 Fax: 203-854-6891 Toll-Free: Address: 110 Richards Avenue, Norwalk, CT, 06856-5090 Internet Address: www.trans-lux.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $63,800 1997 Sales: $53,400 1996 Sales: $45,300 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: TLX

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $1,700 1997 Profits: $1,500 1996 Profits: $1,300 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

646

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $342,471 Second Exec. Salary: $253,654

Bonus: $133,735 Bonus: $199,951

Operates theaters in small urban markets/Unique service technology.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 4 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: DiScipio & Associates, New Canaan, CT

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

535

TRAVEL PORTS OF AMERICA Industry Group Code: 44719 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 5

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Travel Ports of America Buckhorn Family Restaurants Perkins Family Restaurants Travel Ports Fuel Terminal

Profits: 4

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

$528,498 $455,959 $455,959 $35,813,520

Free-standing

16 12 included in above 1

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Trucking Travel Plazas, Retail Restaurants

Travel Ports of America, Inc. operates 16 travel plazas across the northeastern, midwestern and southeastern portions of the United States, as well as one autonomous fuel terminal. The company's travel plazas, havens for tired truckers, include showering facilities, hot meals from the company's Buckhorn Family Restaurants, laundry facilities, game rooms, telephone facilities, travel stores, money transfer facilities, convenience store facilities and fuel and weighing services. Truck washing services, parking facilities and motel rooms are additionally offered at Travel ports of America, easily seen from the side of freeways across the Eastern United States. In 1998, Travel Ports of America, Inc. organized wholly-owned subsidiaries in order to facilitate franchising of the company's operations. Travel Port Systems, Inc. owns the Travel Port trade name, while Travel Port Franchising, Inc. was formed to administer and enter into franchising agreements with third-party franchisees. The company is currently interested in and plans to buy the Perkins Family Restaurant chain, which sports over 40 restaurants.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Travel Ports of America, Inc. Buckhorn Family Restaurants Travel Port Franchising, Inc. Perkins Family Restaurants

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. E. Philip Saunders, CEO John M. Holahan, Pres./COO William Burslam III, CFO/VP William Burslam III, Treas.

Phone: 716-272-1810 Fax: 716-272-9952 Toll-Free: Address: 3495 Winton Place, Bldg. C, Rochester, NY, 14623 Internet Address: www.tpoa.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $211,509 1997 Sales: $207,104 1996 Sales: $165,164 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: TPOA

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $2,338 1997 Profits: $1,700 1996 Profits: $1,691 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,170

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $200,000 Second Exec. Salary: $112,246

Bonus: $229,348 Bonus: $51,355

Offers a variety of services and goods.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 15 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

536

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

TRAVIS BOAT & MOTORS INC Industry Group Code: 4400 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 8

Profits: 6

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Travis Boating Center

2,000-33,000

$6,383,000

Free-standing

30

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Boats, Retail Recreational boats, motors, trailers Marine accessories Watercrafts Offshore fishing boats Cabin cruisers Financing, insurance, repairs

Travis Boats & Motors, Inc. is a leading retailer of recreational boats, motors, trailers and related marine accessories in the southern U.S. The company sells its products through about 30 Travis Boating Center superstores in Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, Alabama, Tennessee, Mississippi, Florida, Georgia and Oklahoma. Each superstore also offers complete customer service and support, including in-house financing programs and full-service repair facilities staffed by factory-trained mechanics. The company's financing programs, known as F&I Products, include extended service contracts and insurance coverage, including credit life and accident/disability coverage. F&I Products account for a substantial portion of the company's income. The company also offers its signature Travis Edition packages, which are complete, full-feature packages that include boat, motor, trailer and numerous additional accessories and design features. These packages account for the majority of total new boat sales. Travis Boats uses extensive market research combined with the design resources of its manufacturers to develop custom Travis Edition boating packages. Personal watercraft, offshore fishing boats and cabin cruisers are also offered for sale at selected store locations. Travis Boats' growth is due to the acquisition of 19 smaller dealerships in recent years, as well as the establishment of new store locations.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Travis Boats Travis Edition Travis Boating Center F&I Products

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Mark T. Walton, Pres. Michael B. Perrine, CFO Ronnie L. Spradling, Exec. VP-New Store Dev. Michael B. Perrine, Treas.

Phone: 512-347-8787 Fax: 512-329-0480 Toll-Free: Address: 5000 Plaza on the Lake, Ste. 250, Austin, TX, 78746 Internet Address: www.travisboats.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $131,700 1997 Sales: $91,300 1996 Sales: $64,600 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: TRVS

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $5,600 1997 Profits: $4,000 1996 Profits: $2,400 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

503

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $175,000 Second Exec. Salary: $150,000

Bonus: $55,500 Bonus: $58,300

Rapid expansion/Offers customized packages.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

537

TREND LINES INC Industry Group Code: 44413 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 11

Profits: 7

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Woodworkers Warehouse Golf Day Post Tool

4,500-5,500 4,000-5,000 4,500-5,500

$996,268 $836,427 $996,268

Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line/Catalog Free-standing/In-line/Shopping center

121 82 28

Trend Lines Catalog

Mail-order only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Building Materials/Hardware Stores, Retail Sports equipment-golf equipment and supplies Mail-order--tools Mail-order--golf equipment and supplies

Trend-Lines, Inc. is a specialty retailer of power and hand tools and accessories, as well as golf equipment and supplies. The company’s retail outlets are separated into the Woodworking Tool industry (Woodworkers Warehouse and Post Tool) and the Golf industry (Golf Day stores). Major items in the company’s Woodworking category include power tools, wood finishes, hand tools, blades, bits and cutters, glue and adhesives, abrasives, sharpening equipment, books, other equipment and supplies. Major items in the Golf category include clubs, bags, hand carts, balls, training aids, golf shoes, apparel, accessories and gift items. The company also maintains a catalog for each of its lines of business, serving approximately two million customers collectively. Trend-Lines’ catalog operations allows the company to gather a customer base and market knowledge that helps facilitate the expansion of retail stores and to identify new store markets. The company intends to open approximately 45 to 55 stores in the next year.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Golf Day Woodworkers Warehouse Trend-Lines Carb0Tech Post Tool Reliant Vulcan Honors

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Stanley D. Black, CEO Richard H. Griner, COO/Pres. Karl P. Sniady, CFO/Exec. VP-Finance Frank P. Bussone, VP-Mktg. Kathleen A. Harris, VP Human Resources Larry Key, VP-Info. Systems Karl P. Sniady, Exec. VP-Admin. Ronald L. Franklin, Treas.

Phone: 781-853-0900 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 135 American Legion Highway, Revere, MA, 02151 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $262,300 1998 Sales: $231,100 1997 Sales: $208,600 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: TRND

1999 Profits: $-7,400 1998 Profits: $4,400 1997 Profits: $3,300 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,575

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $311,482 Second Exec. Salary: $253,606

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Participates in unique, specific industries.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

538

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

TWEETER HOME ENTERTAINMENT Industry Group Code: 443 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 11

Profits: 7

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Tweeter etc. Bryn Mawr Stereo & Video HiFi Buys

10,000 10,000 10,000

$4,467,096 $4,467,096 $4,467,096

Free-Standing/Strip center Free-Standing/Strip center Free-Standing/Strip center

24 18 10

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Electronics, Audio, and Appliance Stores-Retail

Tweeter Home Entertainment Group, Inc. is a specialty retailer of mid to high-end audio and video consumer electronics products. The company operates 51 stores under the Tweeter etc., Bryn Mawr Stereo & Video, and HiFi Buys names in the New England, Mid-Atlantic and Atlanta, Georgia markets, respectively. Tweeter’s stores feature an extensive selection of home and car audio systems and components, portable audio equipment and home video products, including large screen televisions, DVD players, digital satellite systems, video cassette recorders and camcorders. The company attempts to differentiate itself by focusing on consumers who seek audio and video products with advanced features, functionality and performance, and does not offer personal computers or home office equipment. The company seeks to build name recognition and customer loyalty by combining quality products and knowledgeable sales associates with a high level of service and competitive prices. Tweeter Home Entertainment Group has been recognized as the “Consumer Electronics Retailer of the Year” in both 1996 and 1997 by Audio Video International Magazine, and has been rated as the fastest growing consumer electronics retailer in the U.S. in 1997 by the TWICE Consumer Electronics Retail Registry. The company has plans to open an additional 15 stores in the Birmingham, Alabama; Nashville, Tennessee; and midAtlantic markets.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Tweeter etc. Bryn Mawr Stereo & Video HiFi Buys

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Samuel Bloomberg, CEO Jeffrey Stone, COO/Pres. Joseph McGuire, CFO

Phone: 781-830-3000 Fax: 781-821-9956 Toll-Free: 877-893-3837 Address: 10 Pequot Way, Canton, MA, 02021 Internet Address: www.tweeter.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $232,300 1997 Sales: $132,500 1996 Sales: $80,600 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: TWTR

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $5,300 1997 Profits: $ 100 1996 Profits: $1,800 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

997

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $253,461 Second Exec. Salary: $162,307

Bonus: $10,000 Bonus: $5,000

Named Consumer Electronics Retailer of the Year in 1996 and 1997.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

539

U S OFFICE PRODUCTS CO Industry Group Code: 4532 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 5

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 6

Annual Sales Per Store:

Mail Boxes Etc. McWhorter's Whitcoulls Angus & Robertson

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Free-Standing/In-Line

3,600 30 250 incl. in above number

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Office Supplies, Retail Office furniture Office coffee, beverage and vending services Mail-order

U. S. Office Products Company is one of the world’s leading suppliers of a broad range of office products and business services to corporate customers. The company’s North American Office Products Group (NAOPG) provides office supplies, office furniture and office coffee beverage and vending services in the U.S. The NAOPG subsidiary also offers office supplies, gifts and related products through 30 retail outlets in Northern California under the McWhorter’s name. The company’s Blue Star Group Limited offers similar products and services with 250 retail stores in New Zealand and Australia under the Whitcoulls and Angus & Robertson brand names. In late 1997, U. S. Office Products Company acquired Mail Boxes Etc., one of the world’s largest franchisor of local postal, packaging, business and communications service centers with approximately 3,600 outlets worldwide. Plans for Mail Boxes Etc. include the opening of Business Express sites, which are 24-hour selfserve, credit card-activated business centers designed to serve customers in hotels and hospitality centers, airports, convention centers, military retail outlets and academic settings.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Blue Star U.S. Office Products Mail Boxes Etc. Angus & Robertson North American Office Products Group Business Express McWhorter's Blue Star Group, Ltd.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Thomas Morgan, CEO Joseph T. Doyle, CFO James G. Foley, VP-Human Resources Mark D. Director, Exec. VP-Admin. Donald H. Platt, Exec. VP-Strategic Planning Elizabeth A. Richardson, VP-Comm.

Phone: 202-339-6700 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 25 Thomas Jefferson Ave., NW, Ste. 600E, Washington, DC, 20007 Internet Address: www.usop.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $2,664,600 1998 Sales: $2,776,500 1997 Sales: $2,835,900 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: OFIS

1999 Profits: $-199,100 1998 Profits: $5,900 1997 Profits: $57,200 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 15,382

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $636,000 Second Exec. Salary: $519,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $252,500

Rapid expansion/Recent acquisition of Mail Boxes, Etc.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 6 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

540

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

UBID INC Industry Group Code: 4541 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 10

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 7

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

On-line Only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Auctions, Retail

uBid is an on-line auction house that offers consumers and small-to medium-sized businesses excess, refurbished, closeout and limited edition merchandise through live-auction bidding. The company’s Internet auctions feature a rotating selection of brand name computer, consumer electronics, home/leisure and sports/fitness products. uBid is publicly traded, with headquarters in the greater Chicago area, and is a subsidiary of Creative Computers. The company hopes to expand its auction categories, adding sports and recreation products. On-line auctioneering is one of the fastest-growing segments of e-commerce.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Creative Computers, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Greg Jones, CEO Tom Werner, CFO Norm Wesley, Treas.

Phone: 847-860-5000 Fax: 847-616-0318 Toll-Free: Address: 2525 Busee Road, Elk Grove Village, IL, 60007 Internet Address: www.ubid.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $48,200 1997 Sales: $ 100 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: UBID

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-10,200 1997 Profits: $- 300 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

74

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $ Second Exec. Salary: $

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Offers limited edition, excess, refurbished & closeout merchandise

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

541

UGLY DUCKLING CORPORATION Industry Group Code: 4411 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 7

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Ugly Duckling Car Sales

Profits: 6

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

$5,136,036

Free-standing

56

TYPES OF BUSINESS: Auto Dealers, Retail

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES:

Ugly Duckling Corporation operates one of the largest publicly-held chain of Buy Here-Pay Here used car dealerships. The company targets its products and services to the sub-prime segment of the automobile financing industry. Advantages of Buy Here-Pay Here dealerships is the ability to offer customers expanded credit opportunities, flexible payment terms, and the ability to pay at the dealership. Ugly Duckling currently operates 56 dealerships located in nine metropolitan areas in seven states. The company has announced that it will be spinning off its third party servicing and dealer finance operations into an independent entity, Cygnet Financial Corporation.

Ugly Duckling Car Sales

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Ernest C. Garcia II, CEO Gregory B. Sullivan, COO/Pres. Steven T. Darak, CFO/Sr. VP Steven T. Darak, Treas. Walter T. Vonsh, Sr. VP-Credit Donald L. Addink, VP-Senior Analyst

Phone: 602-852-6600 Fax: 602-852-6686 Toll-Free: Address: 2525 East Camelback Rd., Ste.1150, Phoenix, AZ, 85016 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $287,600 1997 Sales: $123,800 1996 Sales: $53,800 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: UGLY

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $5,700 1997 Profits: $9,400 1996 Profits: $5,900 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 2,500

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $197,846 Second Exec. Salary: $150,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Utilizes buy here-pay here format.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

542

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

ULTIMATE ELECTRONICS INC Industry Group Code: 443 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 9

Profits: 9

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Ultimate Electronics SoundTrack Audio King

31,000-52,000 10,000-40,000 3,200-28,000

$11,250,000 $11,250,000 $11,250,000

Free-standing In-line/Free-standing In-line/Free-standing

10 11 9

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Electronics, Audio, and Appliance Stores, Retail Home entertainment products Electronics repair

Founded in 1968, Ultimate Electronics, Inc. runs operations throughout Colorado, Idaho, Iowa, Minnesota, Nevada, New Mexico, Oklahoma, South Dakota and Utah. The company's 10 SoundTrack stores, 11 Ultimate Electronics stores and nine Audio King stores offer mid to upscale-priced home entertainment and consumer electronics products. In order to differentiate itself from ever-present big box competitor stores, Ultimate Electronics' stores present a comprehensive selection of name-brand products, an extensive range of customer services and home audio and theater displays to its customers. Each store additionally features uncrowded merchandise displays, further setting it apart from busilymerchandised traditional electronic superstores. The company is gradually opening superstores of its own, yet is staying true to its uncluttered, customer-oriented principles. Ultimate Electronics' stores practice a policy of matching the lowest prices of its competitors, promising to refund 110% of any price difference a customer may find within 60 days of the original purchase. The company additionally operates one independent electronics repair center in Minnesota under the Fast Trak name.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Ultimate Electronics SoundTrack Audio King Corporation Fast Trak

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. J. Edward McEntire, CEO David J. Workman, COO Alan E. Kessock, CFO/VP-Finance Neal A. Bobrick, VP-Sales Mary Demple, Mgr. Recruiting-Human Resources Neal A. Bobrick, VP-Store Oper. David J. Workman, Pres.

Phone: 303-412-2500 Fax: 303-412-2501 Toll-Free: Address: 321A West 84th Avenue, Thornton, CO, 80221 Internet Address: www.ultimateelectronics.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $337,500 1998 Sales: $306,300 1997 Sales: $261,200 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $165,069

Stock Ticker: ULTE

1999 Profits: $2,900 1998 Profits: $ 100 1997 Profits: $ 800 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $44,481

Employees: 1,600

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $312,500 Second Exec. Salary: $300,000

Bonus: $ 500 Bonus: $15,500

Focus on customer service boosts sales.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

543

UNI MARTS INC Industry Group Code: 44512 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 9

Profits: 5

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Uni-Mart Choice Cigarette Discount Outlets

1,200-3,300 1,200-3,300

$779,863

In-line/Free-standing In-line/Free-standing

256 20

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Convenience Stores, Retail

Uni-Marts, Inc. is an independent operator of convenience stores and discount tobacco stores. The company currently operates 256 convenience stores and 30 Choice Cigarette Discount Outlets stores. The company’s stores offer products designed to increase store traffic, such as branded fast foods, as well as services, including lottery tickets, free check cashing and automated teller machines. Self-service gasoline is sold at 201 locations. The company is now Internet accessible with a new, userfriendly site designed by State College based website engineers Lazerpro Digital Media Group. The site encourages visitors to respond with their impressions, suggestions, ideas and experiences relating to Uni-Marts. In addition to including information on products and services, store locations, and Uni-marts’ chain of Choice Cigarette Discount Outlets, it includes corporate information and financial data.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Uni-Marts of America, Inc. Choice Cigarette Discount Outlets

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Henry D. Sahakian, CEO David G. Graves, Exec. VP/COO J. Kirk Gallaher, Exec. VP/CFO Norine M. Eichelkraut, Sr. VP-Mktg. Norine M. Eichelkraut, VP-Merch. Matthew R. Chandik, Sr. VP-Oper.

Phone: 814-234-6000 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 477 East Beaver Avenue, State College, PA, 168015690 Internet Address: www.uni-mart.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $263,500 1997 Sales: $349,600 1996 Sales: $331,300 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: UNI

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $ 300 1997 Profits: $6,100 1996 Profits: $3,000 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 2,100

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $294,500 Second Exec. Salary: $147,000

Bonus: $100,000 Bonus: $30,000

Focuses on rural and small-town locations.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

544

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

UNITED ARTISTS THEATRE CIRCUIT INC Industry Group Code: 512131 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Profits: 8

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

United Artists Theatres

6.8 screens avg. per theatre 6.8 screens avg. per theatre

$2,058,307 per theatre

Free-standing/Mall/In-line

319

$17,241 per theatre

Operates within U.A. theatres

Satellite Theatre Network

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Movie Theaters Satellite TV Network Leases theatres to businesses in non-peak periods

United Artists Theatre Circuit, Inc. (UATC), a privately owned company, is one of the largest U.S. movie theater chains, operating approximately 2,184 screens in 319 theaters in the U.S., Puerto Rico, Mexico, Singapore and Argentina. The company licenses films from all major and substantially all independent film distributors, and derives over 95% of its sales from tickets and concessions. The remaining percentage of UATC’s sales are from the use of its Proteus satellite TV network for seminars and corporate training during theater off-hours. The company’s recent strategies have been to only open theaters that are 12 to 18 screen multiplex theaters with stadium seating. UATC also completed a corporate restructuring effort that reduced administrative expenses by nearly $11 million. UATC plans to continue its strategy of resisting the trend toward enormous, 25-screen megaplex theaters. The company intends to build 10 new theater complexes in the next year with a total of 117 screens and renovate 12 existing locations. The company had previously been marked as an acquisition target of Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co., a major private investment firm, an acquisition that could merge UATC with Regal Cinemas and Act III Theaters, forming the largest U.S. movie theater chain.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Proteus satellite TV network Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Kurt C. Hall, CEO Kurt C. Hall, Pres.

Phone: 303-792-3600 Fax: 303-790-8907 Toll-Free: Address: 9110 East Nichols Ave., Ste. 200, Englewood, CO, 80112-3407 Internet Address: www.uatc.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $661,300 1997 Sales: $677,500 1996 Sales: $648,600 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: D.URO

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-65,000 1997 Profits: $-46,600 1996 Profits: $-68,900 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 10,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $304,866 Second Exec. Salary: $258,998

Bonus: $ Bonus: $7,500

Has major expansion and renovation plans.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: United Artist Theatres Advertising, Englewood, CO

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

545

UNITED AUTO GROUP INC Industry Group Code: 4411 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

United Auto

Profits: 8

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

$50,653,742

Car lots (Free-standing)

66

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Auto Dealers, Retail Automotive products and services

United Auto Group, Inc. (UAG) is a leading acquirer and operator of franchised automobile and light truck dealerships in the U.S. and Puerto Rico. The company sells new and used vehicles and, through its United Auto Care subsidiary, offers various service plans for the automobiles it sells. These plans include service contracts, roadside assistance, anti-theft systems and preferred customer programs. None of the company's dealerships operate under the United Auto name, but retain the original dealership name or a name affiliated with the brands of vehicles sold at the dealerships. A listing of dealerships is available at the corporate homepage. Another major part of the company's business deals with its financing subsidiary, United Auto Finance Inc., which was responsible for the purchase, sale and servicing of automobile loans for UAG and third-party dealerships. To focus its attention on the servicing and sale of automobiles, the company recently decided to outsource its finance subsidiary's business to Premier Auto Finance, a subsidiary of Aon Corporation that manages and services retail automotive loan and lease portfolios for over 100 automotive retail groups. The company believes that as many dealership owners who were granted franchises in the 1950s and 1960s approach retirement age, many individual dealers will seek exit opportunities, presenting opportunities for UAG to grow through acquisition.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: United Auto Care United Auto Finance, Inc. Premier Auto Finance Aon Corporation

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Marshall S. Cogan, CEO Samuel X. DiFeo, Pres./COO Karl H. Winters, Exec. VP/CFO Robert H. Nelson, Exec. VP-Oper. James R. Davidson, Exec. VP-Admin. George G. Lowrance, Sr. VP-Dev.

Phone: 212-223-3300 Fax: 212-223-5148 Toll-Free: Address: 375 Park Ave., New York, NY, 10152 Internet Address: www.unitedauto.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $3,343,100 1997 Sales: $2,089,800 1996 Sales: $1,303,800 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: UAG

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $- 700 1997 Profits: $-10,100 1996 Profits: $2,500 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 5,500

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $720,000 Second Exec. Salary: $663,440

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Opportunity to grow further through acquisitions.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

546

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

UNITED RETAIL GROUP INC Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 23

Profits: 41

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

The Avenue Shop for Women Sizes Unlimited

4,000 4,000

$754,108 $754,108

In-line/Mall/Downtown In-line/Mall/Downtown

502 incl. in above number

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel-Women's, Retail Accessories

United Retail Group, Inc. is a leading nationwide specialty retailer of large-size women’s apparel and accessories, offering private label merchandise with a designer look using the Avenue trademark. The company’s merchandising strategy is to offer its customers merchandise of the same quality and variety available in smaller sizes. United Retail Group serves the mass market and targets fashion-conscious women between the ages of 18 and 50 who wear size 14 or larger. The company believes that this market is underserved by many department and specialty retail stores. Each store operated by the company offers selections of casual wear, career apparel, specialty items and accessories. Casual wear comprises the majority of the company’s sales and includes jeans, slacks, T-shirts, skirts, active wear and sweaters. Specialty items include sleepwear and lingerie. Accessories include earrings, pins, scarves, socks, hosiery and a selection of gift items. The company recently closed 49 stores which were underachievers as part of its restructuring strategy following periods of loss in fiscal 1996 and 1997.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: The Avenue Forelli Adrian Jordan The Avenue/Shop for Women Sizes Unlimited

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Raphael Benaroya, CEO Raphael Benaroya, Pres. George Remeta, CFO Bradley Orloff, VP-Mktg. Robert Portante, VP-MIS Ellen Demaio, Sr. VP-Merch., United Retail, Inc. Carrie Cline-Tunick, VP-Product Design and Dev., United Retail

Phone: 201-845-0880 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 365 West Passaic Street, Rochelle Park, NJ, 07662 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $378,600 1998 Sales: $361,800 1997 Sales: $363,100 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: URGI

1999 Profits: $18,000 1998 Profits: $-4,800 1997 Profits: $-6,100 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 4,600

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $550,000 Second Exec. Salary: $350,000

Bonus: $330,000 Bonus: $175,000

Focuses on women between 18 and 50 years of age who wear size 14 or larger.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 4 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 2 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

547

URBAN OUTFITTERS INC Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 35

Profits: 21

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Urban Outfitters

9,500

$4,160,941

34

Anthropologie Anthropologie.com

8,200 Internet only

$2,996,071

Near large universities-Inline/Strip center In-line/Catalog

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

14

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel Stores, Retail Household and gift merchandise Accessories Wholesale Internet sales

Urban Outfitters, Inc. is an international merchandising company with two retail divisions, Urban Outfitters and Anthropologie. Urban Outfitters offers lifestyle merchandise to upscale 18 to 30 year old target customers. There are twenty-eight Urban Outfitters stores in major metropolitan areas across the United States and Canada. Anthropologie is a retail concept targeting an upscale female customer in her thirties and forties. Eleven stores exist in the Mid-Atlantic, Northeast, Chicago and Los Angeles area. The company also operates a wholesale division that designs, manufactures and sells women’s and men’s apparel under various labels. The company's wholesale line is sold in the United States, Europe, and Canada to independent specialty stores, direct response catalogs and major department stores. Two new stores were opened in Canada and a lease was signed to open an Urban Outfitters store in London and set up a small London operating office. In the near future, the company plans to open several more stores in the United Kingdom and to expand into Northern Europe as well. In the Anthropologie retail division, the company announced plans to test market a direct response catalog. The catalog, like the store, would offer both hard and soft goods and would target an upscale female customer in her thirties and forties. The company has also acquired a minority interest in HMB Publishing, Inc., which publishes moXIEgirl, a combination magazine and catalog catering to teenage girls.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Urban Outfitters Anthropologie

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Richard A. Hayne, Pres. Kenneth K. Cleeland, CFO Kenneth K. Cleeland, Treas. Jay Hammer, Dir.-Stores Glen T. Senk, Pres.-Anthropologie, Inc.

Phone: 215-564-2313 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 1809 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19103 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $209,000 1998 Sales: $173,100 1997 Sales: $156,400 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: URBN

1999 Profits: $15,800 1998 Profits: $13,900 1997 Profits: $13,300 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,460

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $235,000 Second Exec. Salary: $220,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $4,000

Caters to the young, college crowd, with stores located primarily near large universities/Believes that aggregate number of young adults, its primary customers, will swell by 20% over the next two decades.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

548

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

US PAWN INC Industry Group Code: 4400 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 17

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

U. S. Pawn

Profits: 12

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

$853,846

In-line

26

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Pawn Shops, Retail

U.S. Pawn, Inc. operates 26 pawn stores located throughout Colorado and Wyoming. The stores, which feature a variety of previously owned merchandise from rings to guitars, use personal property or merchandise as collateral for high-interest loans. If the customer is unable to pay the agreed upon contract in full, the personal property or merchandise becomes the property of U. S. Pawn, and becomes part of the store's sellable inventory. Recently, the company acquired 80% of the outstanding common stock of a similar company, Advantage Pawn, which now acts as a subsidiary for U.S. Pawn. The company, which is currently planning to acquire a chain of 10 separate pawn shops in Wyoming, expects to finance the acquisition and development of additional similar pawn shops through internal cash flow, additional lines of credit and equity securities offerings. Though the company plans and intends to expand itself through further acquisitions in the future, some factors may hinder U.S. Pawn's growth plans. Unanticipated operating losses or increases in overhead expenses, unavailability of other pawn shop locations or higher pawn loan demand might reduce the company's available expansion capital, though none of this is very likely. The company has announced plans to merge Cash-N-Pawn into U.S. Pawn. Cash-N-Pawn owns and operates ten pawn shops in Minnesota, Indiana and Missouri.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: U.S. Pawn Advantage Pawn

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Charles C. Van Gundy, CEO Charles C. Van Gundy, Pres. Charles C. Van Gundy, CFO Ronald A. Mitola, VP-Oper.

Phone: 303-657-3550 Fax: 303-657-6341 Toll-Free: Address: 7215 Lowell Blvd., Westminster, CO, 80030 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $11,100 1997 Sales: $12,700 1996 Sales: $10,800 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: USPN

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $- 100 1997 Profits: $ 1996 Profits: $ 800 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

85

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $150,000 Second Exec. Salary: $125,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Several planned acquisitions.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

549

US VISION INC Industry Group Code: 44613 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 4

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

U.S. Vision Styl-Rite Optical

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

$204,667

Department store/Freestanding/Mall/In-line

540 in dept. stores/60 standalone

Direct marketing only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Eyeglasses, Retail Optical products production Eyeglasses and contact lenses Eyeglass frames importing and sale

U.S. Vision, Inc. operates 570 retail optical products locations located throughout 48 of the United States. The company's stores operate largely within regional department store hosts such as JC Penney, Sears and Marshall Fields stores, although 63 freestanding stores do exist in malls and strip centers. U.S. Vision's retail locations are generally full-service eyewear and vision care stores, offering a broad variety of prescription lenses, contact lenses and sunglasses, as well as designer frames. An on-site independent optometrist exists at each location, writing prescriptions and completing optical examinations. Customers' needs are met by U.S. Vision's extensive designer and private-label branded selection of eyewear. The company's Styl-Rite subsidiary manufactures, imports and distributes optical products both for sale at its optical stores and for sale to third-party buyers. U.S. Vision additionally offers a selection of valuepriced eyewear, as well as technologically advanced lenses such as featherweight lenses and virtually unbreakable polycarbonate lenses. Scratch-resistant and anti-reflective coatings can be added to eyewear at any U.S. Vision location.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: U.S. Vision Styl-Rite Optical

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. William A. Schwartz, Jr., CEO William A. Schwartz, Jr., Pres. Kathy G. Gullen, CFO Gayle G. Schmidt, Gayle G. Schmidt George E. McHenry, Jr., Chief Admin. Officer George T. Gorman, Pres.-Retail George E. McHenry, Jr., Sr. VP-Finance

Phone: 609-228-1000 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: One Harmon Drive, Glen Oaks Industrial Park, Glendora, NJ, 08029 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $131,500 1998 Sales: $122,800 1997 Sales: $111,500 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: USVI

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $7,500 1997 Profits: $5,300 1996 Profits: $2,100 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 2,425

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $222,000 Second Exec. Salary: $161,200

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Very effective strategy of placing optical centers inside of major department stores creates instant traffic.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

550

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

VALUE AMERICA INC Industry Group Code: 4541 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 11

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits: 15

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

On-line Only

TYPES OF BUSINESS: Discount Direct Selling

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES:

Through its retail Web site, Value America, Inc. sells over 1,000 brands of discount-priced products. Categories of merchandise sold on the site include technology merchandise (computers, peripherals and software), office merchandise (equipment, furniture and supplies) and consumer merchandise (electronics, housewares, jewelry, books, music, home furnishings, sporting goods, toys, health and beauty products and pet supplies.) All merchandise is showcased through multimedia presentations. Value America additionally offers a personal shopper feature that enables the site to track receipts, warranties, important dates and discounts. The company is currently considering changing the basis of its now free membership to include a fee.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Thomas Morgan, CEO Glenda M. Dorchak, Pres./COO Dean M. Johnston, Exec. VP/CFO Melissa M. Monk, VP-Sales Tana Tornabene, VP-Human Resources Joseph L. Page, Chief Tech. Officer Jerry K. Goode, CIO Sandra T. Watson, VP-Finance/Controller Kenneth K. Erickson, Jr., VP-Merch. Jerry K. Goode, VP-Engineering Steven Tungate, VP-Oper. Kenneth R. Power, VP-Advertising Richard L. Gerhardt, Pres.-Consumer Products Div.

Phone: 804-817-7700 Fax: 804-817-7885 Toll-Free: Address: 1550 Insurance Ln., Charlottesville, VA, 22911 Internet Address: www.valueamerica.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $41,500 1997 Sales: $ 100 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: VUSA

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-53,600 1997 Profits: $- 400 1996 Profits: $- 400 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

227

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $233,718 Second Exec. Salary: $177,692

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Offers multimedia merchandise presentations as well as discounts and extended selection.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 4 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

551

VALUE CITY DEPARTMENT STORES INC Industry Group Code: 4521 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 15

Profits: 15

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Value City DSW Shoe Warehouse

86,000 22,000

$13,740,012 $1,048,064

In-line/Free-standing/Mall Free-standing/In-line

96 47

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Department Stores, Retail Discount stores

Value City Department Stores, Inc. operates a chain of full-line off-price department stores principally under the name Value City, as well as upscale shoe stores under the name DSW Shoe Warehouse. The 97 Value City department stores currently operated are located in Ohio, Pennsylvania and 13 other midwestern, eastern, and southern states. Through the company’s acquisition of Shonac Corporation, it also operates 44 DSW Shoe Warehouse stores located throughout the United States. These are upscale shoe stores offering a wide selection of dress and casual footwear below traditional retail prices. All store departments are operated by the company, except for health and beauty care, toys, sporting goods and certain other departments. SSC owns a controlling interest in L. F. Widmann, Inc., the licensee that operates the company's health and beauty care departments. VCM entered into agreements with Mazel to create VCM, a joint venture. VCM purchased Widmann’s and assets of the company’s toys and sporting goods departments. VCM operates the health and beauty care departments as well. Value City built on its tradition of offering shoppers treasure hunt allure by adding a higher content of branded merchandise along with the customary closeout deals.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Carlyn Advertising Agency, Inc. DSW Shoe Warehouse, Inc. GB Retailers, Inc. J.S. Overland Delivery, Inc. Penn Management, Inc. Shonac Corporation VC Retailers, Inc. Westerville Road LP, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Martin P. Doolan, CEO Michael J. Tanner, COO Robert M. Wysinski, Sr. VP/CFO Joseph Gabarino, Sr. VP-Mktg. and Advertising Lynn Lambrecht, VP-Human Resources Denis Fredrick, VP-MIS Richard L. Walters, VP-Controller/Chief Acc. Officer/Asst. Treasurer James E. Feldt, Exec. VP/General Merch. Mgr. Robert M. Wysinski, Treas. Martin P. Doolan, Pres.

Phone: 614-471-4722 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 3241 Westerville Road, Columbus, OH, 43224 Internet Address: www.valuecity.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $780,300 1998 Sales: $1,161,400 1997 Sales: $1,073,399 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: VCD

1999 Profits: $20,300 1998 Profits: $20,400 1997 Profits: $3,951 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 14,200

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $600,000 Second Exec. Salary: $420,833

Bonus: $350,000 Bonus: $90,000

Offers quality brand name merchandise at prices typically 50% to 70% below prices charged by other department stores/Strong buying system and staff.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Karlin Advertising, Columbus, OH

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

552

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

VALUEVISION INTERNATIONAL INC Industry Group Code: 4541A Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

ValueVision VVTV.com ValueVision Direct Marketing, Inc. Catalog Ventures, Inc. Beautiful Images, Inc.

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

TV Home Shopping

Internet only Direct marketing only Catalog only Direct marketing only

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

TV Shopping, Retail Catalog sales--lingerie Catalog sales--general merchandise Television stations Internet sales

ValueVision International, Inc. is an integrated direct marketing company which markets its products directly to consumers through electronic and print media. The company’s principal electronic media activity is its television home shopping network, which markets brand name merchandise and proprietary and private label consumer products at competitive or discount prices. ValueVision’s live 24-hour a day television home shopping programming is distributed through cable affiliation and through its own broadcast television stations. The company, through its Value Vision Direct Marketing Company, Inc., is also a direct-mail marketer of domestics, housewares, home accessories, electronics and various apparel wear. Through its Catalog Ventures, Inc. subsidiary, the company sells a variety of fashion jewelry, health and beauty aids, books, audio and video cassettes. Through Beautiful Images, Inc. the company manufactures and markets, via direct-mail, women’s foundation undergarments and other women’s apparel. ValueVision has recently seen a change in its corporate leadership with the resignation of the company’s founders, former CEO and President. The company has also recently terminated its merger agreement with National Media Corporation and Quantum Direct Corporation.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: ValueVision Montgomery Ward Direct KBGE Television Beautiful Images

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Robert L. Johander, CEO Nicholas M. Jaksich, COO/Pres. Stuart Romenesko, CFO/Sr. VP-Finance Edward A. Karr, Exec. VP-Merch. and Programming Staurt Romenesko, Treas. Michael L. Jones, VP-Television Broadcasting

Phone: 612-947-5200 Fax: 612-947-0188 Toll-Free: Address: 6740 Shady Oak Road, Minneapolis, MN, 55344 Internet Address: www.vvtv.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $203,700 1998 Sales: $218,000 1997 Sales: $159,478 1996 Sales: $88,910 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: VVTV

1999 Profits: $4,600 1998 Profits: $18,100 1997 Profits: $18,090 1996 Profits: $11,020 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $293,750 Second Exec. Salary: $167,212

Bonus: $ Bonus: $32,500

Third-largest television home shopping network in the U.S./Move into catalog sales.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

553

VENATOR GROUP INC Industry Group Code: 4482 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Profits: 10

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Foot Locker San Francisco Music Box and Gift Company Lady Foot Locker Kids Foot Locker Champs Sports Afterthoughts

1,000-2,000 800-1,500

Mall Mall

2,008 181

1,000-4,000 1,000-4,000 4,000-15,000 800-2,000

Mall Mall Mall

649 274 657 791

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Shoe Stores Jewelry Gifts Footwear

Venator Group, Inc. (formerly Woolworth Corporation) operates retail stores in Asia, Australia, Europe and North America. The Venator Group's subsidiaries encompass over 18 retail brand names, including Foot Locker, Champs Sports, Afterthoughts and San Francisco Music Box. In addition to assuming a new name, the company has assumed a new focus on athletic and sporting apparel, recently divesting itself of over 6000 stores that sold general merchandise, including its Woolworth stores. In addition to its retail stores, the company also operates a direct marketing subsidiary, Eastbay, Inc., which offers athletic footwear, apparel and equipment along with private label products through mail distribution and Internet commerce. On its corporate home page, the Venator Group offers a listing of U.S. and international career opportunities and a comprehensive benefit plan which includes medical and life insurance, a 401(k) plan, a stock purchase plan and employee discounts on retail merchandise.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Northern Reflections Champs Sports Afterthoughts Foot Locker Eastbay San Francisco Music Box Co. Colorado Kinney shoes

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Roger N. Farah, CEO Dale W. Hilpert, Pres./COO Bruce Hartman, Sr. VP/CFO John F. Gillespie John F. Gillespie, Sr. VP-Human Resources S. Ronald Gaston, Sr. VP/CIO Lauren B. Peters, VP/Controller Maryann M. McGeorge, VP-Merch. Oper. M. Jeffrey Branman, Sr. VP-Corp. Dev. John H. Cannon, VP/Treas. John E. DeWolf III, Sr. VP-Real Estate

Phone: 212-553-2000 Fax: 212-553-2042 Toll-Free: Address: Woolworth Blg., 233 Broadway, New York, NY, 102790003 Internet Address: www.venatorgroup.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $4,555,000 1998 Sales: $6,624,000 1997 Sales: $8,092,000 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: Z

1999 Profits: $-136,000 1998 Profits: $-10,000 1997 Profits: $169,000 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 75,118

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $1,500,000 Second Exec. Salary: $825,000

Bonus: $702,150 Bonus: $377,406

New focus on sporting and athletic apparel.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 5 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

554

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

VIACOM INC Industry Group Code: 5132 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Profits: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Blockbuster Video SimonSays.com

1,000-15,000 Internet only

$610,251

In-line

6,380

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Networks and Broadcasting, Retail Video Rental Stores Filmed entertainment Video stores Cable television Book publishing Radio broadcasting Internet sales

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: MTV Networks Showtime Networks, Inc. Nickelodeon Paramount Pictures/Paramount Stations Group Blockbuster Video National Amusements, Inc. Prentice Hall Simon & Schuster

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Sumner M. Redstone, CEO George S. Smith, Sr. VP/CFO William A. Roskin, Sr. VP-Human Resources and Admin. Susan C. Gordon, VP/Controller/Chief Acc. Officer Philippe P. Dauman, Exec. VP/Chief Admin. Officer Robert M. Bakish, Sr. VP-Planning, Dev. and Tech.

Phone: 212-258-6000 Fax: 212-258-6100 Toll-Free: Address: 1515 Broadway, New York, NY, 10036 Internet Address: www.viacom.com Notes/Other Info: http://blockbuster.com/

Viacom Inc. is a diversified entertainment and publishing company with operations in four segments. Through its networks and broadcasting segment, the company operates MTV: Music Television, Showtime, Nickelodeon, VH1 Music First and TV Land, and operates 17 broadcast television stations. Through its entertainment segment, which includes Paramount Pictures, Paramount Television and Spelling Entertainment Group Inc., the company produces and distributes theatrical motion pictures and television programming. Through its video and music/theme parks segment, which includes the Blockbuster family of businesses and Paramount Parks, the company operates videocassette rental, sales stores and music stores. In addition, Paramount Parks operates five theme parks and one water park. Through its publishing segment, which includes Simon & Schuster, the firm publishes a long list of consumer books and offers related on-line information. (In late 1998, it sold its professional, educational and reference publishing businesses). In retailing, Viacom sold its Blockbuster Music stores, which had been faced with disappointing profits, to Wherehouse Entertainment in late 1998. Blockbuster Video stores continue to soar, with more than 1 billion customer visits annually to the 6,000 stores. There are more than 60 million individual Blockbuster rental cards in existence, and Blockbuster has stores or licensees in 26 nations. The company collaborated with New Zealand’s TVNZ for 755 episodes of Nickelodeon programming. Italy’s Radio Television Italiana added the first localized foreign language version of Blue’s Clues to its Nickelodeon block. Noggin, a noncommercial education channel from Nickelodeon and the Children’s Television Workshop, launched a digital network and website. Paramount Television Group and Nickelodeon will launch two complementary branded channels in Spain, Paramount Comedy and Nickelodeon, via the country’s digital satellite television operator.

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $12,096,100 1997 Sales: $13,206,100 1996 Sales: $12,084,200 1995 Sales: $

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-122,400 1997 Profits: $793,600 1996 Profits: $1,247,900 1995 Profits: $

Stock Ticker: VIA Employees: 116,700

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE: OTHER THOUGHTS:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $1,000,000 Second Exec. Salary: $612,500

Bonus: $6,000,000 Bonus: $475,000

Excellent cross-marketing between film production, theaters, television networks and retail video stores.

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes)

Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 West: Southwest: Midwest: Southeast: Northeast: y y y y y Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

555

VIDEO UPDATE INC Industry Group Code: 45122B Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 2

Profits: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Video Update

4,600-5,900

$229,301

In-line

681 company-owned; 72franchised

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Video Rental Stores-Retail

Video Update, Inc. owns and operates 681 video specialty stores located in 31 states and six provinces in Canada, and franchises 72 additional video specialty stores predominantly in the United States. The company believes that it is the third largest video specialty retailer in the U.S. based on the number of superstores it operates. Approximately 86% of the company’s stores in the U.S. and 93% in Canada are video superstores carrying more than 7,500 rental units. Video Update stores in the U.S. and Canada offer on average approximately 10,700 and 8,500 rental units, respectively including multiple copies of new and popular releases and video games. During the company’s last fiscal year, Video Update nearly doubled its number of stores from 343 to 681 company-owned stores. This feat was accomplished through the acquisition of 267 video stores from Moovies, Inc. and the opening of 84 new stores; the company also closed 13 stores including those closed relating to acquisitions. As a result of this rapid growth, the company’s revenues increased from $91 million to $156 million.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Video Update Movies, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Daniel A. Potter, CEO Daniel C. Howard, COO Dale E. Lauwagie, CFO John M. Bedard, Pres. Michael G. Schifsky, Sr. VP-Store Dev.

Phone: 612-222-0006 Fax: 612-297-6086 Toll-Free: Address: 3100 World Trade Center, 30 East Seventh St., St. Paul, MN, 55101 Internet Address: www.videoupdate.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $156,200 1997 Sales: $91,799 1996 Sales: $50,504 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: VUPDA

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-14,500 1997 Profits: $4,620 1996 Profits: $1,628 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 9,097

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $300,000 Second Exec. Salary: $200,000

Bonus: $4,603,665 Bonus: $2,557,590

Stocks more than 7,500 items in each store.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

556

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

VILLAGE SUPER MARKET INC Industry Group Code: 4451 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 25

Profits: 26

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

ShopRite

50,000

$33,508,777

In-line

21

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Food Stores, Retail Liquor stores

Village Super Market, Inc. operates a chain of 21 ShopRite supermarkets, 15 of which are located in northern New Jersey, one of which is in northeastern Pennsylvania and five of which are in the southern shore area of New Jersey. The company was founded in 1937 by Nicholas and Perry Sumas, and has continued to be principally owned and operated under the active management of the Sumas family. The company is a member of Wakefern Food Corporation, one of the nation’s largest retailer owned food cooperatives and owner of the ShopRite name. This relationship provides Village Super Market many of the economies of scale in purchasing, distribution and advertising associated with chains of greater size and geographic reach. The company’s net sales increased 93% in fiscal 1998, and also showed an increase of 2.4% in same store sales due to lower operating costs and improvements in gross margins. Village has recently begun utilizing computerbased orientation and training programs to attract and retain qualified associates. Other recent news for the company includes the expenditure of $10 million for capital improvements on many of its stores in 1998.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: ShopRite Wakefern Food Corporation

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Perry Sumas, CEO/Pres. James Sumas, COO Kevin R. Begley, CFO James Sumas, Treas.

Phone: 973-467-2200 Fax: 973-467-6582 Toll-Free: Address: 733 Mountain Avenue, Springfield, NJ, 07081 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $703,700 1997 Sales: $688,900 1996 Sales: $688,600 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: VLGEA

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $4,000 1997 Profits: $2,100 1996 Profits: $2,000 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 3,630

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $343,055 Second Exec. Salary: $290,010

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

A part of Wakefern Food Corporation, the nation's largest retailer owned food cooperative.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Gianettino & Meredith Advertising, Short Hills, NJ

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

557

VISTA EYECARE INC Industry Group Code: 44613 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 3

Profits: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Vista Optical/Lee Optical Frame-n-Lens Optical Midwest Vision New West Eye Works, Inc.

1,000 1,000 1,000 1,000

$405,600 $405,600 $405,600 $405,600

In-line In-line In-line In-line

413 280 51 175

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Eyeglasses, Retail

Vista Eyecare, Inc., formerly know as National Vision Associates Ltd., is engaged in the retail sale of optical goods and services. The company operates a total of 915 locations, including 178 locations acquired as part of the acquisition of New West Eyeworks, Inc., 283 locations with Frame-n-Lens and 50 freestanding locations that operate under the trade name, Midwest Vision. The company’s retail operations offer a full line of optical goods. In addition, independent Doctors of Optometry are available adjacent to store locations. New West Eyeworks operates under the Vista Optical and Lee Optical trade names in 13 states. Frame-n-Lens Optical, Inc. operates 155 freestanding units in California, 121 leased optical departments in Sam’s Club, and 7 leased optical departments in Wal-Mart.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Midwest Vision, Inc. New West Eyeworks, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. James W. Krause, CEO Barry Feld, Pres./COO Angus C. Morrison, Sr. VP/CFO Robert W. Stein, VP-Human Resources Eduardo Egusquiza, Sr. VP-Info. Tech. Charles M. Johson, Charles M. Johson Michael J. Boden, Sr. VP-Leased Retail Oper. Angus C. Morrison, Treas.

Phone: 770-822-3600 Fax: 770-822-3601 Toll-Free: Address: 296 Grayson Highway, Lawrenceville, GA, 30045 Internet Address: www.vistaeyecare.com. Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $245,300 1997 Sales: $186,400 1996 Sales: $160,400 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: VSTA

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $3,400 1997 Profits: $5,600 1996 Profits: $3,500 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 2,859

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $368,000 Second Exec. Salary: $197,000

Bonus: $101,500 Bonus: $39,000

Operates 915 locations across the world.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

558

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

WAL-MART STORES INC Industry Group Code: 4521 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Wal-Mart-U.S. Sam's Club-U.S. Wal-Mart Supercenter-U.S. Wal-Mart International

94,300 121,200 181,200 94,300-181,200

Profits: 1

Annual Sales Per Store: $50,733,924 $17,104,748

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Number of Stores:

Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line

1,869 domestic 451 domestic 564 domestic 716

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Discount Stores, Retail Supermarket/department store combo Warehouse membership clubs Internet-based retailing Supermarkets Grocery Stores In-store pharmacies In-store auto repair centers

Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. is the largest retailer in the U.S. and operates through Wal-Mart stores, Sam’s Clubs and WalMart supercenters. The firm’s current focus is on closing outdated Wal-Mart stores and replacing them with massive supercenters. Wal-Mart plans to build 10 new distribution centers during 1999, for a total of 46. Currently, 40,000 square foot Wal-mart neighborhood Markets are being tested. As many as 30 may be built yearly. The company's focus on international expansion is intensifying, as Wal-Mart stores entered the People’s Republic of China with one Wal-Mart Supercenter and one warehouse club. Wal-Mart International recently announced the purchase of 74 units of Interspar hypermarket chain. The units are being acquired from Spar Handels AG, a German company that owns multiple retail formats and wholesale operations. The company also purchased the Asda Group, PLC, an operator of supermarkets in the U.K. Wal-Mart recently announced plans to become a major force in Internet-based selling. Wal-Mart is the only pure retail company to rank in the top 35 U.S. firms in terms of total stock market value (market capitalization). The company's average customer is 42-46 years of age and the average household income of a WalMart shopper is $30,000 to $35,000, with an average shopping ticket of $30.00. Wal-Mart stores are involved in their communities. The company has implemented diversity initiatives to increase the recruitment and promotion of women and minorities including a mentoring program, a women's leadership group and a corporate internship program for college students interested in retailing. The company's profit sharing plan is heavily invested in Wal-Mart stock. WalMart is the largest corporate employer of blacks and Hispanics in the United States.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Wal-Mart Stores Supercenters Sam's Clubs McLane Company Bud's Discount City Asda Group, PLC (U.K.) Neighborhood Market Interstar Hypermarkets (Europe)

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. David Glass, Pres./CEO H. Lee Scott, Jr., COO John B. Menzer, Exec. VP/CFO Henry Jordan, Dir. Operations-Neighborhood Market Thomas M. Coughlin, Exec. VP/Pres.-Wal-Mart Stores Div. Bob L. Martin, Exec. VP/Pres.-Int'l Div.

Phone: 501-273-4000

Typical Store Location:

Fax: 501-273-8650, 501-2731917 Coll. Relations

Toll-Free: Address: 702 Southwest 8th Street, Bentonville, AR, 72716 Internet Address: www.wal-mart.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $137,634,000 1998 Sales: $117,958,000 1997 Sales: $104,859,000 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: WMT

1999 Profits: $4,430,000 1998 Profits: $3,526,000 1997 Profits: $3,056,000 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 825,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $1,163,846 Second Exec. Salary: $906,000

Bonus: $1,102,000 Bonus: $755,700

Locations nationwide provide exceptional buying power/State-of-the-art distribution and merchandising technology.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 6 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Bernstein-Rein Advertising, Inc., Kansas City, MO

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

559

WALGREEN CO Industry Group Code: 44611 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Profits: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Walgreens

10,000

$6,009,815

Free-standing/In-line

2,547

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Drug Stores, Retail Mail order pharmacy services Pharmacy benefit management Health care maintenance services

Walgreen Co. is a leader in the U.S. chain drugstore industry in sales, profits, store growth, and technology use. The company has over 2,500 drugstores in 36 states and Puerto Rico and continues to expand. Despite having fewer stores than some of its competitors, the giant drugstore chain leads in terms of sales and profitability. During a recent year, the company opened over 300 new or relocated stores, an accomplishment surpassing previous store growth records. Walgreen expects to increase its total store count to 3,000 stores by the year 2000, and 6,000 stores by 2010. In addition to the company's pharmacy business, which fills 226 million prescriptions annually, Walgreen operates several health care related businesses. Among these businesses are Walgreens Healthcare Plus, Inc., a mail order drug company, WHP Health Initiatives, Inc., a pharmacy benefit management company and Walgreen Advance Care, Inc., a retailer of health care maintenance services. The company has been expanding the number of advanced services provided in its stores. Over 1,200 stores now offer drive-thru prescription service and over 90% of the company's stores offer one-hour photo processing in addition to product lines such as cosmetics, toiletries, liquor, beverages and tobacco. Other changes exist for the company at the executive level as David W. Bernauer takes over the position of President and Chief Operating Officer of Walgreen Co. Walgreen is a retail industry leader in advanced computer technology.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Walgreens Healthcare Plus, Inc. WHP Health Initiatives, Inc. Walgreen Advance Care, Inc.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Charles R. Walgreen III, CEO L. Daniel Jorndt, Pres./COO R. Polark, Sr. VP/CFO Vernon A. Brunner, Exec. VP-Mktg. Jerome B. Karlin, Exec. VP-Store Oper.

Phone: 847-940-2500 Fax: 847-940-2804 Toll-Free: Address: 200 Wilmot Road, Deerfield, IL, 60015 Internet Address: www.walgreens.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $15,307,000 1997 Sales: $13,363,000 1996 Sales: $11,778,400 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: WAG

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $511,000 1997 Profits: $436,000 1996 Profits: $371,700 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 90,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $924,667 Second Exec. Salary: $678,333

Bonus: $603,487 Bonus: $438,591

Ranked as the 123rd largest company in the U.S./Largest and fastest growing retail prescription provider.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Grenada Advertising Agency, Deerfield, IL; McConnaughy Stein Schmidt Brown, Chicago, IL

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

560

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

WALT DISNEY COMPANY (THE) Industry Group Code: 7131 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Profits:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

The Disney Store

Number of Stores:

Mall

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Theme parks Filmed entertainment Consumer products Cable and broadcast television networks Music and book publishing On-line entertainment programs Theme parks and resorts Retail toy, game and book stores

Walt Disney Company is a diversified international entertainment company with operations in filmed entertainment, theme parks and resorts, television and radio broadcasting, on-line entertainment, retailing, music and book publishing, and other consumer products. The most important news is Disney's acquisition of television giant Capital Cities/ABC, Inc., operator of the ABC television and radio networks. This pushed the combined entity to about $19 billion in sales, $4.6 billion in cash flow and 100,000 employees. ABC brought 11 company-owned TV stations, 228 affiliated stations and 21 radio stations to the group. The ABC purchase makes Disney one of the most powerful, diversified media firms in the world, ranking with Time-Warner and News Corp. in ability to deliver mass entertainment. However, Disney has an exceptional ability to create animated, feature-length films, and to market these titles, on cassette, on its own television network, in on-line products and in consumer products including books and records. Disney has been investing aggressively in new theme parks and attractions. By the end of 2001, Disney will have spent $4 billion to add two new theme parks, a cruise line and three regional entertainment chains to its stable of companies. In April 1998, the company opened its first new theme park in nine years: Animal Kingdom near Orlando, Florida. Disney has purchased a 100% interest in Infoseek. This is one of the premier entertainment firms in the world, in virtually every niche: publishing, theme parks, movies, television and multimedia. Job seekers wanting to be on the leading edge of the InfoTech Revolution should apply to Disney's film, television and multimedia units. Watch for a third major U.S. Disney theme park. Some business areas in the company, such as Theme Parks and Resorts, do have specific grooming guidelines for employees. In most other areas of the company, employees dress appropriately for the job function they are performing.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: The Disney Channel Disney Consumer Products Infoseek Miramax The Disney Store Chilton Publications ABC Television Touchstone Pictures

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Michael D. Eisner, CEO Sanford M. Litvack, Sr. Exec. VP/Chief of Corp. Oper. Richard D. Nanula, Sr. Exec. VP/CFO Steve Wadsworth, Pres. Buena Vista Internet Group John F. Cooke, Exec. VP-Corp. Affairs

Phone: 818-560-1000 Fax: 818-560-1930 Toll-Free: Address: 500 South Buena Vista Street, Burbank, CA, 91521 Internet Address: www.disney.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $22,976,000 1997 Sales: $18,739,000 1996 Sales: $12,112,000 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: DIS

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $ 1997 Profits: $1,214,000 1996 Profits: $1,380,000 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 108,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $764,423 Second Exec. Salary: $509,615

Bonus: $5,000,000 Bonus: $410,000

Entertainment products that capitalize on the well-known Disney characters/Has diversified aggressively into nearly all segments of entertainment.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

561

WEIS MARKETS INC Industry Group Code: 4451 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 18

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Weis Markets Mr. Z's Food Mart King's Supermarkets Save A Lot Scot's Lo Cost Big Top Market

Profits: 11

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

$12,389,597 $12,389,597 $12,389,597 $12,389,597 $12,389,597 $12,389,597

In-line In-line In-line In-line In-line In-line

98 18 6 4 3 1

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Grocery Stores/Supermarkets, Retail Pet supplies Restaurant and institutional supplies

Weis Markets, Inc. is engaged in the retail sale of food through 154 retail food markets operating primarily under the Weis Markets name in Pennsylvania and under various other names in other areas of the Northeast. The company also operates Weis Food Service, a restaurant and institutional supplier. Weis Markets, Inc. also owns an 80% interest in SuperPetz, Inc. a 43 store chain of pet supply stores operating in the South and Midwest. The market chain is an operator of an ice cream plant, meat processing plant and milk processing plant, which allows the company to offer private label products. The company recently opened state-of-the-art superstores and remodeled and expanded several of its existing stores. It is the company's hope that these plans will allow it to preserve and expand its market share in the face of increasing competition.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: SuperPetz Weis Markets Mr. Z's Food Mart King's Supermarkets Erb's Scot's Lo Cost Big Top Market Weis Food Service

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Norman S. Rich, Pres. William R. Mills, VP-Finance Leslie H. Knox, VP-Merch. Robert F. Weis, Treas. Walter B. Bruce, VP-Private Label

Phone: 717-286-4571 Fax: 717-286-3286 Toll-Free: Address: 1000 S. Second St., Sunbury, PA, 17801 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $1,867,500 1997 Sales: $1,818,800 1996 Sales: $1,753,200 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: WMK

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $83,700 1997 Profits: $78,200 1996 Profits: $78,900 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 19,500

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $500,000 Second Exec. Salary: $380,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $5,700

Continues to expand/Stores regiional presencde in the Northeast/Interest in SuperPetz.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Joanne Harmelin & Associates, Bala Cynwyd, PA; Heil-Brice Retail Advertising, Newport Beach, CA

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

562

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

WELCOME HOME INC Industry Group Code: 421 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 9

Profits: 3

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Welcome Home Home Again

2,400-4,600 2,400-4,600

$444,705 $444,705

Outlet mall Outlet mall

125 incl. in above number

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Furniture Stores, Retail

Welcome Home, Inc. is a specialty retailer of gifts and decorative home furnishings and accessories, with 125 stores in 36 states. The company’s stores are located primarily in factory outlet centers and offer a product line of 1,500 to 2,500 items targeted toward gift-buying female shoppers. The product lines consist of 11 basic categories: decorative home textiles, framed art, furniture, candles, lighting, fragrance, decorative accessories, decorative garden, music, special opportunity merchandise and seasonal products. The company’s stores can also be found under the names Home Again and Glorious Nest. Welcome Home is still in the process of reorganization after financial problems caused it to stop expansion and focus on remaking its image. The company has established two new prototype stores in Burbank, Ohio and Gaffney, South Carolina.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Jordan Industries Home Again Glorious Nest

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Thomas H. Quinn, CEO R. Thomas Wolfe, Exec. VP/COO Mark S. Dudeck, VP/CFO Robert E. Wood, CIO Mark S. Dudeck, Treas.

Phone: 910-791-4312 Fax: 910-791-4945 Toll-Free: Address: 309-D Raleigh St., Wilmington, NC, 28412 Internet Address: www.welchome.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $54,300 1997 Sales: $ 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: WELC

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $14,200 1997 Profits: $ 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees:

787

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $205,000 Second Exec. Salary: $115,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $46,500

Offers 2,500 items to gift-buying shoppers.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

563

WEST MARINE INC Industry Group Code: 4400 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 3

Profits: 10

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

West Marine

3,000-15,100

$1,744,340

212

E&B Discount Marine

3,000-15,100

$1,744,340

Near boat marinas/Accessible to boaters Near boat marinas/Accessible to boaters

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

incl. in above number

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Marine Supplies, Retail Catalogs Wholesale

West Marine, Inc. is one of the largest specialty retailers of recreational and commercial boating supplies and apparel in the U.S. The company offers its products through 198 stores in 30 states under the names West Marine and E&B Marine, and through catalogs which it distributes several times each year. The company’s business strategy is to offer an extensive selection of high quality marine supplies and apparel to the recreational aftermarket for both sailboats and powerboats at competitive prices in a convenient, one-stop shopping environment emphasizing customer service and technical assistance. The company is also engaged, through its Port Supply division and its stores, in the wholesale distribution of products to commercial customers and other retailers. Recently, the company expanded its operations by opening 33 new stores and entering into new geographic markets in Arizona, Indiana, Minnesota, Missouri, Vermont and Wisconsin. West Marine recently consolidated its East Coast inventory and operations into a new distribution center in Rock Hill, South Carolina, closing two centers in Edison, New Jersey and Charlotte, North Carolina. In the future, the company intends to focus on enhancing its store presence and pursuing acquisitions to complement or expand its existing business.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: West Marine E&B Marine, Inc. E&B Discount Marine, Inc. Port Supply

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Crawford Cole, CEO Richard E. Everett, COO John Zott, CFO Linda Kennedy, Dir.-Human Resources Robert Hebeler, Sr. VP-Merch. John Zott, Sr. VP-Finance Crawford Cole, Pres.

Phone: 408-728-2700 Fax: 408-728-2736 Toll-Free: Address: 500 Westridge Drive, Watsonville, CA, 95076-4100 Internet Address: www.westmarine.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $448,800 1997 Sales: $415,200 1996 Sales: $323,300 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: WMAR

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $1,100 1997 Profits: $15,200 1996 Profits: $11,600 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 3,095

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $229,675 Second Exec. Salary: $168,461

Bonus: $55,491 Bonus: $12,328

Significant growth due to E&B Marine acquisition.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

564

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

WESTERN BEEF INC Industry Group Code: 4451 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 33

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Western Beef Junior's Food Outlet

9,000-83,000 11,000

Profits: 27

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Free-standing Free-standing

21 2

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Grocery Stores/Food, Retail Wholesale food business

Western Beef, Inc. operates 19 high-volume, warehousetype supermarkets in metropolitan areas in New York and a wholesale food business, which primarily deals in beef, pork, poultry and provisions to customers in New Jersey, Pennsylvania and New York. The company provides ethnic foods that suit the ethnic make-up of the areas in which its stores are located, as well as employing many of the neighborhood's residents. The Western Beef supermarkets are distinguishable from traditional supermarket formats by their no-frills approach, including an unusually broad selection of meat and produce and a very limited selection of non-food items in a warehouse format. New developments for stores include the introduction of scratch, brick oven bakeries, which bake a variety of old world bread and rolls from basic ingredients. The company continues to upgrade and remodel several of its older stores and also continues to search out appropriate sites for further expansion.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES:

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Peter Castellana, Jr., CEO Peter Castellana, Jr., Pres. Chris Darrow, CFO Joseph Castellana, Exec. VP-Retail Oper. Frank Castellana, Exec. VP-Planning and Dev.

Phone: 718-417-3770 Fax: 718-628-2356 Toll-Free: Address: 47-05 Metropolitan Avenue, Ridgewood, NY, 11385 Internet Address: www.westernbeef.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $299,000 1997 Sales: $317,100 1996 Sales: $340,900 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: BEEF

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $3,400 1997 Profits: $3,200 1996 Profits: $6,000 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,800

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $613,675 Second Exec. Salary: $387,305

Bonus: $98,735 Bonus: $63,700

Largest warehouse supermarket chain in the New York metropolitan area.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

565

WET SEAL INC (THE) Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 21

Profits: 15

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Contempo Casuals Wet Seal Limbo Lounge Next Arden B.

3,000-5,000 3,000-5,000 3,000-5,000 3,000-5,000 3,000-5,000

$1,132,000 $1,132,000 $1,132,000 $1,132,000 $1,132,000

Mall/In-line Mall/In-line/Catalog Free-standing Mall Mall/In-line

248 190 17 1 66

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel-Women's, Retail Men's casual apparel Accessories Mail-order

The Wet Seal, Inc., is one of the largest specialty retailers of moderately priced, fashionable and contemporary apparel and accessory items designed for consumers with a young, active lifestyle in the U.S. Most of the stores are mall-based and operate under the Contempo Casuals (248 stores) and Wet Seal (190 stores) names, which offer substantially the same fashions for junior women (differentiating only when located in the same mall). The company also owns one Next store (junior women), and five Limbo Lounge stores, which offer young men’s casual clothing. Wet seal plans to open up to seven additional Limbo Lounge stores. Wet Seal sells brand-name and company brand merchandise and puts out mail-order catalogs. It recently announced the repositioning of its Wet Seal catalog under its Blue Asphalt brand name. Blue Asphalt is one of the top selling denim brands in the country, and represents the number one selling denim brand in the Wet Seal and Contempo Casuals stores while also including a full assortment of tops and casual bottoms. The catalog content will be modified to include more editorials (a magalog), and will be issued four to six times a year. The company also plans to introduce a related web-site under the Blue Asphalt name by the middle of the year.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Contempo Casuals Wet Seal Limbo Lounge The Girl's Room Arden B. Blue Asphalt Next

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Kathy Bronstein, CEO Edmond Thomas, Pres./COO Ann Cadier Kim, CFO/Sr. VP-Finance Shelly Moeller, VP-Human Resources Sharon Hughes, VP-Merch. Barbara Bachman, VP-Store Oper.

Phone: 949-583-9029 Fax: 949-583-0715 Toll-Free: Address: 26972 Burbank, Foothill Ranch, CA, 92610 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $485,400 1998 Sales: $412,500 1997 Sales: $374,900 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: WTSLA

1999 Profits: $26,000 1998 Profits: $21,300 1997 Profits: $15,300 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 5,822

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $682,418 Second Exec. Salary: $563,627

Bonus: $1,271,375 Bonus: $726,500

Offers clothes specifically for young women/Sponsors special events that focus on the interests and lifestyles of its target customers.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 6 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

566

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

WHITEHALL JEWELERS INC Industry Group Code: 44831 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 7

Profits: 7

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Whitehall Co. Jewelers Lundstrom Jewelers Marks Bros. Jewelers

790 790 790

$1,100,000 $1,100,000 $1,100,000

Mall Mall Mall

210 47 3

TYPES OF BUSINESS: Jewelry, Retail

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES:

Whitehall Jewelers, Inc. (formerly Marks Bros. Jewelers, Inc.) is a leading national specialty retailer of fine jewelry. The company’s stores are located in regional and superregional shopping malls with an average store size of 790 square feet placed in high-traffic areas. The company's stores, which are marketed towards middle- and upperincome women over age 25, often generate sales volumes comparable to much larger stores. Whitehall Jewelers' stores are operated under three separate names with the company often operating more than one store under different names in the same mall. Growth plans include the opening of approximately 35 new stores and the possible acquisition of the Jewelry Box chain.

Whitehall Co. Jewelers Lundstrom Jewelers Marks Bros. Jewelers Jewelry Box

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Hugh M. Patinkin, CEO Hugh M. Patinkin, Pres. John R. Desjardins, Exec. VP-Finance and Admin. Lynn D. Eisenheim, Exec. VP-Merch. Matthew M. Patinkin, Exec. VP-Store Oper. John R. Desjardins, Treas.

Phone: 312-782-6800 Fax: 312-782-8299 Toll-Free: Address: 1550 North Wacker, Chicago, IL, 60606 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $238,900 1998 Sales: $188,900 1997 Sales: $155,500 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: WHJI

1999 Profits: $14,300 1998 Profits: $10,200 1997 Profits: $17,400 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,300

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $294,462 Second Exec. Salary: $254,520

Bonus: $75,000 Bonus: $64,350

Small, flexible store format that generates very high volume.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

567

WHOLE FOODS MARKET INC Industry Group Code: 4451 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 21

Profits: 16

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Whole Foods Market Good for You Foods Bread & Circus Wellspring Grocery Unicorn Whole Foods Market Fresh Fields

24,000 24,000 24,000 24,000 24,000 24,000

$15,167,880 $15,167,880 $15,167,880 $15,167,880 $15,167,880 $15,167,880

Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line

87 incl. in above number incl. in above number incl. in above number incl. in above number incl. in above number

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Grocery Stores/Supermarkets, Retail Nutritional supplements Mail-order

Whole Foods Market, Inc. owns the country’s largest chain of natural foods supermarkets, featuring food made from natural ingredients that are free of unnecessary additives. Products include organically grown and high-grade commercial produce, grocery products and environmentally safe household items, meat free of growth hormones and antibiotics, bulk foods, fresh bakery goods, soups, salads, hot entrees and sandwiches, vitamins, body care products and cosmetics, and miscellaneous items including books and magazines emphasizing health and nutrition. The company currently operates 87 stores in 19 states, and recently acquired Merchant of Vino, Allegro Coffee Company, Amrion, Inc., Granary Market, and Bread of Life. Merchant of Vino operates four gourmet/natural food supermarkets and two specialty wine and gourmet food shops in the greater Detroit metropolitan area. Allegro Coffee Company is a specialty coffee roaster and distributor based in Boulder, Colorado. Amrion, Inc. is a Boulder, Colorado-based company focused on nutriceuticals and nutritional supplements. The company particaptes in a number of community activities, including the company's Bread & Circus stores in Boston which partnered with The Boston Parents' Paper to create a year-round program called Stop Children's Hunger. The company offers Team Member surveys to all its employees. According to the survey, approximately 85% of employees consider Whole Foods Market an enjoyable place to work The Northeast Region has incorporated a buddy program to train Team Members for leadership positions in new stores. Whole Foods is one of the most innovative employers in the nation in terms of employee support, team work and profit sharing-- on a par with Ben & Jerry's. The company's work force has doubled in the past two years, and CEO compensation is restricted to ten times the average salary.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Bread & Circus Mrs. Gooch's Natural Food Markets, Inc. Wellspring Grocery Unicorn Whole Foods Market Allegro Coffee Company Fresh Fields Amrion, Inc. Merchant of Vino

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. John Mackey, CEO James P. Sud, COO Glenda Flanagan, VP/CFO Jody Hatch, VP-Human Resources Betsy Foster, CIO Chris Hitt, Pres.

Phone: 512-477-4455 Fax: 512-477-1301 Toll-Free: Address: 601 North Lamar, Suite 300, Austin, TX, 78703 Internet Address: www.wholefoods.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $1,389,800 1997 Sales: $1,117,300 1996 Sales: $892,100 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: WFMI

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $45,400 1997 Profits: $26,600 1996 Profits: $-17,200 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 14,200

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $185,000 Second Exec. Salary: $165,000

Bonus: $90,000 Bonus: $110,000

Largest chain of natural food supermarkets/Customer loyalty/Excellent employee relations.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 6 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

568

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

WICKES INC Industry Group Code: 44413 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 7

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Wickes, Inc.

1.0-28.2 acres

Wickes Direct/Wickes International

Direct marketing only

Profits: 9

Annual Sales Per Store:

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Free-standing sales and distribution facilities

101

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Building Materials/Hardware Stores, Retail

Wickes, Inc. is a major supplier and distributor of building materials. The company sells its products and services primarily to residential and commercial building professionals, repair and remodeling contractors and, to a lesser extent, project do-it-yourselfers involved in major home improvement projects. The company operates 101 sales and distribution facilities in 23 states in the Midwest, Northeast, and South and 10 component manufacturing facilities that produce and distribute pre-hung door units, roof and floor trusses, and framed wall panels. The company conducts its primary operations under the Wickes Lumber name. The company has organized and streamlined its operations into three channels of distribution: major markets, conventional markets, and Wickes Direct/Wickes International.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Wickes Lumber Wickes Direct Wickes International

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. J. Steven Wilson, CEO Dave T. Krawczyk, Pres./COO George A. Bajalia, CFO Gene R. Logan, VP-Sales Gene L. Curtin, VP-Info. Systems

Phone: 847-367-3400 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 706 North Deerpath Drive, Vernon Hills, IL, 60061 Internet Address: www.wickes.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $910,300 1997 Sales: $884,100 1996 Sales: $848,500 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: WIKS

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $- 500 1997 Profits: $-1,600 1996 Profits: $ 500 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 3,795

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $473,400 Second Exec. Salary: $284,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Streamlined operations into three distribution channels.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: McConnaughy Stein Schmidt Brown, Chicago, IL

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

569

WILD OATS MARKETS INC Industry Group Code: 4451 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 32

Profits: 18

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Wild Oats Community Market Alfalfa's Market Beans, Grains & Things Ideal Market Oasis Fine Foods Sunshine Grocery

5,000-35,000 5,000-35,000 5,000-35,000 5,000-35,000 5,000-35,000 5,000-35,000

$5,953,090 $5,953,090 $5,953,090 $5,953,090 $5,953,090 $5,593,090

Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line Free-standing/In-line

71 incl. in above number incl. in above number incl. in above number incl. in above number incl. in above number

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Grocery Stores/Supermarkets, Retail Natural foods supermarkets

Wild Oats Markets, Inc. is one of the nation's largest natural foods store chains. The company is dedicated to providing a broad selection of high-quality natural and gourmet foods and related products at a competitive price, in an inviting and educational store environment emphasizing customer service. The company started in 1987 when the founding husband and wife team opened their a small vegetarian health food store in Boulder, Colorado. Today, the firm comprises 70 stores in 18 states in the U.S. and one in Canada. Foods sold here must be of high quality, and free of such things as chemical additives and preservatives. The company’s stores range in size from 5,000 to 35,000 square feet and feature natural alternatives in virtually every product category found in conventional supermarkets, providing consumers with one-stop, full service shopping alternatives to both conventional supermarkets and traditional health food stores. The company continues to pursue its two-pronged strategy of opening both large and medium-sized natural foods supermarkets. This flexible strategy represents a competitive advantage in terms of making more acquisitions and better penetrating certain difficult markets. Currently, the company expects to open or acquire at least nine new stores. A full-feature web site enables customers to order over the Internet. The firm promotes open communication among employees. Unusual benefits include a yearly wellness benefit of $200, a new baby benefit of $200, and a charity work program that pays employees to volunteer for up to 52 hours yearly at local community non-profit organizations. On certain days during each year, every store donates 5% of revenues to charities.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Alfalfa's Market Sunshine Grocery Oasis Fine Foods Wild Oats Community Markets Capers Whole Foods Markets

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Michael C. Gilliland, CEO James W. Lee, Pres./COO Mary Beth Lewis, CFO/VP-Finance Peter F. Williams, VP-Mktg. Peter F. Williams, VP-Human Resources John E. Lauderbach, VP-Info. Tech. Freya R. Brier, VP-Legal Mary Beth Lewis, Treas. Ronald J. Feldman, VP-Real Estate

Phone: 303-440-5220 Fax: 303-440-5280 Toll-Free: 800-494-9453 Address: 1645 Broadway, Boulder, CO, 80302 Internet Address: www.wildoats.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $398,900 1997 Sales: $311,100 1996 Sales: $192,500 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: OATS

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $11,600 1997 Profits: $7,000 1996 Profits: $-4,500 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 4,583

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $250,000 Second Exec. Salary: $235,000

Bonus: $125,000 Bonus: $100,000

Major presence in the western U.S./ Second largest natural foods supermarket chain, behind Whole Foods.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 3 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

570

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

WILLIAMS SONOMA INC Industry Group Code: 44229 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 3

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Williams-Sonoma Pottery Barn Hold Everything Gardeners Eden Outlet Stores

2,800-4,500 5,800-10,500

Profits: 2

Annual Sales Per Store:

Mail-order only

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Mall/In-line/Outlet Mall In-line Mall/In-line

163/6 outlet 96 33 6

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Linens/Housewares, Retail Catalog sales Home furnishings and accessories Linens Garden supplies and accessories

Williams-Sonoma, Inc. is a national specialty retailer of fine quality cooking and serving equipment, home furnishings, and home and garden accessories, which it markets through 276 retail stores and five mail order catalogs. The company offers home-centered merchandise through five concepts, each of which is focused on a different area of the home: Williams-Sonoma offers culinary and serving equipment, Pottery Barn features items in casual home furnishings, flatware, and table accessories, Hold Everything offers household storage products, Gardener’s Eden features gardening equipment, and Chambers offers bed and bath products. The company has established a large-store format for its Williams-Sonoma and Pottery Barn operations. The new Williams-Sonoma format, called Grande Cuisine, is 31 percent larger, while the new Pottery Barns stores are designed to incorporate new departments. In fiscal 1997, the company spent approximately $9 million on the development of information systems, including merchandise planning and inventory management systems. In fiscal 1998, the company planned to spend approximately $10 million on information systems, including the development of a new mail order entry system and implementation of merchandise planning and inventory management systems, the purpose of which is to support the continuing growth of the company. This is one of the nation's premier retailers to affluent baby boomers. It has built up a massive and highly valuable customer base, enabling it to generate an enviable mail order/retail store business combination.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Williams-Sonoma Catalog for Cooks Pottery Barn Hold Everything Gardeners Eden Chambers

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. W.Howard Lester, CEO G. Andrew Rich, Sr. VP-Human Resources Gary C. Friedman, Chief Merch. Officer Dennis A. Chantland, Exec. VP/Chief Admin. Officer Richard C. Hunter, Sr. VP-Int'l Oper. and Dev.

Phone: 415-421-7900 Fax: 415-983-9887 Toll-Free: Address: 3250 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco, CA, 94109 Internet Address: www.williamssonoma.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $1,104,000 1998 Sales: $933,300 1997 Sales: $811,800 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: WSGC

1999 Profits: $54,900 1998 Profits: $41,300 1997 Profits: $22,700 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 12,300

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $623,978 Second Exec. Salary: $455,253

Bonus: $150,000 Bonus: $100,000

Has direct-mail catalogs with annual mailings of approximately 132 million.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

571

WILSONS THE LEATHER EXPERTS INC Industry Group Code: 4481 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 20

Profits: 23

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Wilsons The Leather Experts

800-2,000

$886,873

Mall/Kiosk/Airport/Outlet mall

518

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Apparel Stores, Retail

Wilsons The Leather Experts, Inc. is one of the leading specialty retailers of men’s and women’s leather outerwear, apparel and accessories in the United States. The company currently operates 460 retail stores in 44 states and in England. These stores include 16 airport stores, which focus on selling accessories to business travelers and tourists, and 444 mall-based stores. Wilsons offers its products under several formats: Wilsons The Leather Experts,is the company’s traditional mall-based store which offers a full range of merchandise, while Tannery West and Georgetown Leather Design are mallbased stores which offer a more targeted line of upscale merchandise. The company supplements its mall-based operations with approximately 200 holiday stores and 100 seasonal kiosks during its peak winter selling period. Wilsons has plans to expand its airport concept by opening 10 new stores to decrease the effects of seasonality and to increase its brand name awareness worldwide as business and personal travelers are introduced to the Wilsons product line. The company considers its vertically integrated operations to be one of its key advantages over other mall-based leather retailers. Wilsons controls its leather design and development, contract manufacturing, merchandising, marketing and retail sales through integrated information systems.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Tannery West Georgetown Leather Design

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Joel N. Waller, CEO David L. Rogers, COO/Pres. David B. Sharp, VP-Mktg. Betty Goff, VP-Human Resources Jeffrey W. Orton, VP-Info. Systems John Fowler, Sr. VP/General Merch. Mgr. Thomas R. Wildenberg, Chief Acc. Officer

Phone: 612-391-4000 Fax: Toll-Free: Address: 7401 Boone Ave. N.,, Brooklyn Park, MN, 55428 Internet Address: www.wilsonsleather.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $459,300 1998 Sales: $418,100 1997 Sales: $424,800 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: WLSN

1999 Profits: $18,200 1998 Profits: $10,900 1997 Profits: $12,900 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 4,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan:

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $380,000 Second Exec. Salary: $259,996

Bonus: $170,240 Bonus: $106,288

Vertically-integrated operations.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 2 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Promot, Inc., Los Angeles, CA

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

572

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

WINN DIXIE STORES INC Industry Group Code: 4451 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 7

Profits: 8

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Winn-Dixie Winn-Dixie Marketplace Thriftway The City Meat Markets Buddies

42,400 42,400 42,400 42,400 42,400

$11,658,390 $11,658,390 $11,658,390 $11,658,390 $11,658,390

In-line In-line In-line In-line In-line

405 726 26 10 1

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Grocery Stores/Supermarkets, Retail

Winn-Dixie Stores, Inc. is one of the nation’s largest operators of retail food chains, selling groceries, meats, seafood, fresh produce, deli/bakery foods, pharmaceuticals and general merchandise items. In addition to food products, most of the company’s retail locations also offer ancillary services such as photo processing, dry cleaning and in-store banking. The company currently operates 1,168 supermarkets in 14 states and in the Bahama Islands, and plans to open 85 new stores and remodel or enlarge 90 existing stores. Winn-Dixie also operates a network of distribution facilities, processing and manufacturing plants and a fleet of trucks, providing a comprehensive support system. The company’s vertically integrated system consists of 22 manufacturing facilities, 17 warehouse and distribution centers and 2,100 trucks. Winn-Dixie offers a stock purchase plan for all of its 139,000 associates at 85 percent of the stock’s fair market value. Winn-Dixie also provides a stock-incentive program for its management associates when they meet certain goals over a three-year period.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Winn-Dixie Marketplace Thriftway The City Meat markets Buddies Bahamas Supermarkets Limited

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. A. Dano Davis, CEO James Kufeldt, Pres. R. P. McCook, CFO/VP-Finance B. C. Baxter, VP/Dir.-Mktg. G. E. Clerc, Jr., VP-Dir.-Public Relations C. R. Raulerson, VP/Dir.-Info. Systems J.L. Cooper, J.L. Cooper

Phone: 904-783-5000 Fax: 904-783-5294 Toll-Free: Address: 5050 Edgewood Court, Jacksonville, FL, 32254-3699 Internet Address: www.winndixie.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $13,617,500 1997 Sales: $13,218,700 1996 Sales: $12,955,500 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: WIN

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $198,600 1997 Profits: $204,400 1996 Profits: $255,600 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 88,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: y Stock Purch. Plan: y

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing: y

Top Exec. Salary: $397,952 Second Exec. Salary: $362,420

Bonus: $202,062 Bonus: $129,376

Fifth largest supermarket chain in the U.S. based on sales/Market dominance in many Florida communities.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: 1 Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: The William Cook Agency, Inc., Jacksonville, FL

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

573

WOLOHAN LUMBER CO Industry Group Code: 44413 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 10

Profits: 6

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Wolohan Lumber

56,000

$8,998,080

Free-standing

50

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Building Materials/Hardware Stores, Retail Lumber Home improvement loans

Wolohan Lumber Co. is engaged in the retail sale of a fullline of lumber and building materials and related items through a chain of 50 building supply stores located in Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois and Kentucky. The company’s products include dimension lumber, building hardware, lawn and garden supplies, heating, plumbing, and electrical products, cabinets and storage barns. Contractors and remodelers account for more than 60% of sales. Wolohan offers many value-added services, including computer design for remodeling projects, home improvement and construction loans, a private label credit card, special order services, a delivery service and on-site lumber cutting. Recent business developments include the expansion of programs related to the training and development of its associates. The company also installed scanning equipment in 32 additional stores, which completed this technology upgrade for all stores. Wolohan recently completed a major upgrade to computer and communications systems that was initiated in 1995. In other business, the company closed four underperforming stores and opened two stores in MI. Three other stores were acquired in Michigan. The company continues to be challenged by lower lumber prices and intense and growing competition from large chains.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Wolohan Lumber

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. James L. Wolohan, Pres./CEO Dave G. Honaman, VP-Admin./CFO Curtis J. LeMaster, VP-Purchasing, Mktg., and Systems William E. Stark, VP-Human Resources Edward J. Dean, Controller/Chief Acc. Officer John A. Sieggreen, VP-Oper. James R. Krapohl, Treas./Asst. Sec.

Phone: 517-793-4532 Fax: 517-793-8542 Toll-Free: Address: 1740 Midland Road, Saginaw, MI, 48603 Internet Address: www.wolohan.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $449,900 1997 Sales: $424,500 1996 Sales: $430,400 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: WLHN

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $6,800 1997 Profits: $4,300 1996 Profits: $6,200 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,575

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $222,000 Second Exec. Salary: $122,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Sells more than 44,000 different products.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency: Kelly, Scott And Madison, Inc., Chicago, IL

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest:

Midwest: y

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

574

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

WORLD OF SCIENCE Industry Group Code: 4400 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 12

Profits: 8

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

World of Science-permanent World of Science-seasonal

1,000-3,000 1,500-selling space

$580,000 $308,155

Mall Mall

74 71

TYPES OF BUSINESS: Science and Nature Products, Retail

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES:

World of Science is a leading specialty retailer of a variety of traditional and distinctive science and nature products that emphasize both educational and entertainment values. The company currently operates 74 permanent stores and 71 seasonal stores. Permanent World of Science stores are open year-round under long-term leases and are characterized by an upscale store façade and interior fixture package. Seasonal stores are open during the holiday selling season, or for an extended period beyond that season, under leases with shorter terms. A typical permanent World of Science store has approximately 25 different product areas, and seasonal stores generally feature approximately 20 different product areas focused upon specific merchandising themes.

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Fred H. Klaucke, CEO Fred H. Klaucke, Pres. Charles A. Callahan, VP-Finance/CFO Christine M. Luchi, VP-Oper.

Phone: 716-475-0100 Fax: 716-475-1370 Toll-Free: Address: 900 Jefferson Road, Building Four, Rochester, NY, 14623-3218 Internet Address: www.worldofscience.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $60,700 1998 Sales: $54,300 1997 Sales: $44,600 1996 Sales: $ 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: WOSI

1999 Profits: $1,500 1998 Profits: $1,800 1997 Profits: $1,700 1996 Profits: $ 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 1,054

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $175,000 Second Exec. Salary: $90,000

Bonus: $ Bonus: $

Unique strategy gives the firm the ability to operate both permanent and seasonal stores.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: Ad Agency:

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West:

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

575

ZALE CORPORATION Industry Group Code: 44831 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 1

Profits: 2

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Zales Gordon's Jewelers Bailey, Banks & Biddle

1,450 1,400 2,600

$928,200 $796,100 $1,740,800

Mall Mall Mall

695; 6 outlets 317 107

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Jewelry, Retail

Zale Corporation is a specialty retailer of fine jewelry, conducting business through three distinct divisions: Zales, Gordon’s, and Baily, Banks & Biddle. The company offers jewelry products through these several different formats in order to cater to its various types of customers. Zale Corporation operates more than 1,125 retail jewelry stores in the United States, Puerto Rico and Guam. Recent business developments include the sale of the Diamond Park Fine Jewelers Division, which managed leased fine jewelry departments in major department stores around the country. The company also sold off excess land around its corporate headquarters for $12.9 million. The proceeds from the sale were appropriated for the stock-repurchasing program, which was implemented in 1998.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Gordon's Division Guild Division Diamond Park Division Zales Division Bailey, Banks & Biddle Dobbins J. Herbert Hall Linz

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Robert J. DiNicola, CEO Beryl B. Raff, Pres./COO Sue E. Grove, Exec. VP/CFO Gregory Humenesky, Sr.VP-Human Resources Paul G. Leonard, Sr. VP/Pres.-Corp. Merch. Mary L. Forte, Exec.VP/Chief Admin. Officer Alan Shor, Exec.VP/Chief Logistics Officer

Phone: 972-580-4000 Fax: 972-580-5336 Toll-Free: Address: 901 West Walnut Hill Lane, Irving, TX, 75038-1003 Internet Address: www.zalecorp.com Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $1,313,700 1997 Sales: $1,253,800 1996 Sales: $1,137,400 1995 Sales: $

Stock Ticker: ZLC

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $68,900 1997 Profits: $50,600 1996 Profits: $43,900 1995 Profits: $

Employees: 10,000

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $850,000 Second Exec. Salary: $350,000

Bonus: $873,477 Bonus: $163,485

Largest specialty retailer of fine jewelry in the U.S.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 4 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: Publicis Dialog, Dallas, TX

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest: y

Southeast: y

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast: y

International: y

576

Plunkett's Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

ZIONS COOPERATIVE MERCANTILE INSTITUTION Industry Group Code: 4521 Ranks within this company's industry group: Sales: 21

Profits: 21

Store Name(s):

Typical Size-Sq. Ft.:

Annual Sales Per Store:

Typical Store Location:

Number of Stores:

Zions

25,000-220,000

$22,499,545

Mall/In-line

11

TYPES OF BUSINESS:

GROWTH PLANS/SPECIAL FEATURES:

Department Stores, Retail Ready-to-wear specialty stores Outlet apparel stores

Organized in 1868, Zions Cooperative Mercantile Institution operates the first and oldest chain of department stores in the United States. Contrary to the name, Zions Cooperative Mercantile Institution operates not as a cooperative, but as a for-profit company. The company’s 11 Zions department stores are located throughout Utah and Idaho, as are the company’s four men’s and women’s ready-to-wear, specialty and outlet stores. All full-line stores exist in Salt Lake City, Ogden, Orem, Logan, Sandy, Layton and St. George, Utah, and in Pocatello and Idaho Falls, Idaho. Stores offer over 3,000 leading brand-name items, and everything one would expect in a department stores. The company has been a well-known economic force in its area of operation—in fact, Zions Cooperative Mercantile Institution is one of Utah’s largest employers. In a recent development, the company’s employees were outfitted with electronic timecards featuring personalized bar codes, enabling operations to run more smoothly.

BRANDS/DIVISONS/AFFILIATES: Zions

CONTACTS: Note: Officers with more than one job title may be intentionally listed here more than once. Richard H. Madsen, CEO Richard H. Madsen, Pres. Keith Saunders, Exec. VP/CFO Nancy Mortensen, VP-Mktg. R. Barry Arnold, VP-Merch./General Merch. Mgr. Ronald Culverwell, Treas./Asst. Sec. Darrel Robinette, VP-Stores

Phone: 801-579-6404 Fax: 801-519-6275 Toll-Free: Address: 2200 South 900 West Street, Salt Lake City, UT, 84137 Internet Address: Notes/Other Info:

FINANCIALS: Sales and profits are in thousands of dollars—add 000 to get the full amount. 1999 Sales: $ 1998 Sales: $247,495 1997 Sales: $257,474 1996 Sales: $259,599 1995 Sales: $254,371

Stock Ticker: ZNCO

1999 Profits: $ 1998 Profits: $-8,466 1997 Profits: $ 209 1996 Profits: $1,838 1995 Profits: $ 582

Employees: 3,800

SALARIES/BENEFITS: Pension Plan: y Savings Plan: y

ESOP Stock Plan: Stock Purch. Plan:

COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE:

Profit Sharing:

Top Exec. Salary: $250,900 Second Exec. Salary: $159,110

Bonus: $27,996 Bonus: $17,231

Considered the first full-line department store in the U.S./Recent turnaround with greatly impoved bottom line.

OTHER THOUGHTS: Apparent Women Officers or Directors: 1 Apparent Minority Officers or Directors: Hot Spot for Advancement for Women/Minorities: y Ad Agency: EvansGroup, Salt Lake City, UT; ZCMI Advertising, Salt Lake City, UT

LOCATIONS: (“Y” = Yes) West: y

Southwest: y

Midwest:

Southeast:

Note: Financial information, benefits and other data can change quickly and may vary from those stated here.

Northeast:

International:

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

577

ADDITIONAL INDEXES Index of firms noted as “Hot Spots for Advancement” for women/minorities

p.577

Index by subsidiaries, brand names and selected affiliations

p.579

INDEX OF FIRMS NOTED AS “HOT SPOTS FOR ADVANCEMENT” FOR WOMEN AND MINORITIES 99 CENTS ONLY STORES AARON RENTS INC ABERCROMBIE & FITCH CO ALBERTO-CULVER COMPANY ALBERTSONS INC AMAZON.COM INC AMERICA ONLINE INC AMERICAN EXPRESS CO AMERICAN STORES COMPANY AMES DEPARTMENT STORES INC ANNTAYLOR STORES CORP ARTISTIC GREETINGS INCORPORATED ATEC GROUP INC AUTHENTIC FITNESS CORP AUTONATION INC AVON PRODUCTS INC BABBAGE'S ETC BARNES & NOBLE INC BEAUTICONTROL COSMETICS INC BESTWAY INC BLAIR CORPORATION BLUE RHINO CORPORATION BOMBAY COMPANY INC (THE) BRADLEES INC CACHE INC CATHERINES STORES CORPORATION CATO CORP CDNOW INC CELLSTAR CORPORATION CHARMING SHOPPES INC CHICO'S FAS INC CHILDREN'S PLACE (THE) CIRCUIT CITY GROUP CLAIRE'S STORES INC COLDWATER CREEK INC COMP USA INC CONCORD EFS INC CONSOLIDATED STORES CORP CORPORATE EXPRESS INC CORT BUSINESS SERVICES CORPORATION COSMETIC CENTER INC (THE) COST PLUS INC COSTCO COMPANIES INC CROWN BOOKS CORP

DAYTON HUDSON CORPORATION DESIGNS INC DILLARD'S INC DOLLAR GENERAL CORPORATION DRESS BARN INC (THE) DRUG EMPORIUM INC E4L INC EDISON BROTHERS STORES INC ELECTRONIC CLEARING HOUSE INC ELECTRONICS BOUTIQUE HOLDINGS CORP. EQUIFAX INC EVANS SYSTEMS INC FAIR ISAAC AND COMPANY INC FEDERATED DEPARTMENT STORES INC FINGERHUT COMPANIES INC FIRST CASH INC FIRST DATA CORP FLEMING COMPANIES INC FOOD LION INC FOOTSTAR INC FRED MEYER INC GADZOOKS INC GANTOS INC GAP INC GARDEN BOTANIKA INC GATEWAY INC GENERAL NUTRITION COMPANIES INC GENOVESE DRUG STORES INC GETTY IMAGES INC GLOBE BUSINESS RESOURCES INC GOOD GUYS INC (THE) GOODY'S FAMILY CLOTHING INC GOTTSCHALKS INC GREAT ATLANTIC & PACIFIC TEA COMPANY INC GREEN TREE FINANCIAL CORP GYMBOREE CORP (THE) HANNAFORD BROS CO HANOVER DIRECT INC HAROLD'S STORES INC HAVERTY FURNITURE COS INC HECHINGER CO HEILIG MEYERS COMPANY HIBBETT SPORTING GOODS INC HOME DEPOT INC HORIZON PHARMACIES INC HOST MARRIOTT SERVICES CORPORATION HOT TOPIC INC IBM INGLES MARKETS INC INTIMATE BRANDS INC J BAKER INC J C PENNEY COMPANY INC J JILL GROUP INC (THE) JACOBSON STORES INC JENNIFER CONVERTIBLES INC JUST FOR FEET INC KMART CORPORATION KOHL'S CORP

578 KROGER CO (THE) LAMONTS APPAREL INC LANDS END INC LILLIAN VERNON CORPORATION LIMITED INC (THE) LONGS DRUG STORES CORPORATION LOWE'S COS INC MAY DEPARTMENT STORES COMPANY (THE) METROLOGIC INSTRUMENTS INC MICROSOFT CORP MOTHERS WORK INC MULTIPLE ZONES INTERNATIONAL INC MUSICLAND STORES CORP NATURAL WONDERS INC NATURE'S SUNSHINE PRODUCTS INC NCR CORPORATION NEIMAN MARCUS GROUP INC (THE) NORDSTROM INC O'REILLY AUTOMOTIVE INC OFFICE DEPOT INC OFFICEMAX INC ONE PRICE CLOTHING STORES INC OSHMAN'S SPORTING GOODS INC PAMIDA HOLDINGS CORPORATION PAPER WAREHOUSE PAUL HARRIS STORES INC PAYLESS CASHWAYS INC PAYLESS SHOESOURCE INC PENN TRAFFIC COMPANY (THE) PETSMART INC PHARMHOUSE CORP PROFFITTS, INC. PROTEAM.COM INC PUEBLO XTRA INTERNATIONAL, INC. REAL GOODS TRADING CORPORATION REEDS JEWELERS INC RICHFOOD HOLDINGS INC RIGHT START INC (THE) RITE AID CORPORATION ROSS STORES INC RUDDICK CORPORATION SAFEWAY INC SAKS HOLDINGS INC SCHULTZ SAV O STORES INC SEARS ROEBUCK & CO SHARPER IMAGE CORPORATION SHERWIN WILLIAMS COMPANY (THE) SHOP AT HOME INC SHOPKO STORES INC SMART & FINAL INC SOFTWARE SPECTRUM SPIEGEL INC SPORT CHALET INC SPORTS AUTHORITY INC (THE) SPS TRANSACTION SERVICES INC STAPLES INC STEIN MART INC STERLING COMMERCE INC

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 STROUDS INC SUNGLASS HUT INTERNATIONAL INC SUPERVALU INC SYMS CORP TALBOTS INC (THE) TANDY CORP TIFFANY & CO TJX COMPANIES INC TOSCO CORP TOTAL SYSTEM SERVICES INC TOYS R US INC TRANS-LUX CORPORATION U S OFFICE PRODUCTS CO UNITED RETAIL GROUP INC VALUE CITY DEPARTMENT STORES INC VENATOR GROUP INC VISTA EYECARE INC WAL MART STORES INC WALGREEN CO WALT DISNEY COMPANY (THE) WET SEAL INC (THE) WHOLE FOODS MARKET INC WINN DIXIE STORES INC ZALE CORPORATION ZIONS COOPERATIVE MERCANTILE INSTITUTION

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

INDEX BY SUBSIDIARIES, BRAND NAMES, AND SELECTED AFFILIATIONS Brand or subsidiary, followed by the name of the related corporation. 06; Software Centre Europe B.V.; SYSTEMAX INC A&P; GREAT ATLANTIC & PACIFIC TEA COMPANY $tock; SANTA ISABEL @ease; FLORSHEIM GROUP INC 1-800-Pro-Team; PROTEAM.COM INC 3Com Corporation; FRANKLIN COVEY CO 76 Products Company; TOSCO CORP A & F Quarterly; ABERCROMBIE & FITCH CO A Pea in the Pod; MOTHERS WORK INC A. Hirsh & Son Jewelers; SAMUELS JEWELERS INC A.C. Moore, Inc.; A C MOORE ARTS & CRAFTS A.P. Woodson Co., Inc.; PETROLEUM HEAT & POWER Aaron Brothers; MICHAELS STORES INC Aaron Investment Company; AARON RENTS INC Aaron Rents' Rent-to-Rent division; AARON RENTS INC Aaron Rents, Inc.; CORT BUSINESS SERVICES Aaron's Rental Purchase division; AARON RENTS INC Aaron's Rental Purchase franchised stores; AARON RENTS ABC Television; WALT DISNEY COMPANY (THE) Abercrombie; ABERCROMBIE & FITCH CO Abercrombie & Fitch Co.; LIMITED INC (THE) Acapella; MARY KAY COSMETICS INC. Accessory Place, Inc.; CLAIRE'S STORES INC ACI Investments, Inc.; AARON RENTS INC Acrofax, Inc.; EQUIFAX INC Act III Theatres; REGAL CINEMAS INC Action; ANNTAYLOR STORES CORP Adam Michael Cosmetics, Inc.; COSMETIC CENTER INC Added Dimensions; CATHERINES STORES CORP Adrian Jordan; UNITED RETAIL GROUP INC Advanced Fox; BATTERIES BATTERIES INC Advanced Logic Research, Inc.; GATEWAY INC Advanced Network and Servicers, Inc.; AMERICA ONLINE Advantage Pawn; US PAWN INC Adventures in Cassettes; AUDIO BOOK CLUB INC Aegis Venture Funds; J JILL GROUP INC (THE) Afterthoughts; VENATOR GROUP INC Airborne for Men; METRO GLOBAL MEDIA INC AiRush, Inc.; RUSH ENTERPRISES INC AJ Wright; TJX COMPANIES INC AKA EDDIE BAUER; SPIEGEL INC Alamo Rent-a-Car; AUTONATION INC Albert Heijn; AHOLD Alberto VO5; ALBERTO-CULVER COMPANY Alberto-Culver USA; ALBERTO-CULVER COMPANY Albertson's; AMERICAN STORES COMPANY Albertson's; ALBERTSONS INC ALCO; DUCKWALL ALCO STORES INC Alco Furniture Rental; CORT BUSINESS SERVICES CORP Alfalfa's Market; WILD OATS MARKETS INC All Star Rental; BESTWAY INC ALLDATA; AUTOZONE INC Alldata; AUTOZONE INC Allegro Coffee Company; WHOLE FOODS MARKET INC Allsport; GETTY IMAGES INC Alta Vista Search Engine; COMPAQ COMPUTER CORP

579 Amazing Discoveries; E4L INC AMC Entertainment International; AMC ENTERTAINMENT AMC Film Marketing; AMC ENTERTAINMENT INC AMC Realty, Inc.; AMC ENTERTAINMENT INC AMD, Inc.; AMES DEPARTMENT STORES INC America West; SKYMALL INC American & Efird, Inc.; RUDDICK CORPORATION American Computer Systems, Inc.; ATEC GROUP INC American Express Bank; AMERICAN EXPRESS CO American Express Financial Corp; AMERICAN EXPRESS CO American Express Travel; AMERICAN EXPRESS CO American Foodservice Distributors; SMART & FINAL INC American Loan & Jewelry, Inc.; FIRST CASH INC American Multi-Cinema, Inc.; AMC ENTERTAINMENT INC American Spirit; HILLS STORES COMPANY American Stores, Inc.; ALBERTSONS INC American Wholesale Book; BOOKS A MILLION INC Ames FS, Inc.; AMES DEPARTMENT STORES INC Ames Realty II, Inc.; AMES DEPARTMENT STORES INC Ames Transportation Systems; AMES DEPARTMENT STORES AMF; SPORT SUPPLY GROUP INC AMG Holdings, Inc.; ARDEN GROUP INC Amrion, Inc.; WHOLE FOODS MARKET INC Amway Asia Pacific; AMWAY ASIA PACIFIC LTD Amway Asia Pacific, Ltd.; AMWAY CORPORATION Amway Corporation; AMWAY ASIA PACIFIC LTD Amway Japan Ltd.; AMWAY ASIA PACIFIC LTD Amway Japan, Ltd.; AMWAY CORPORATION Anew; AVON PRODUCTS INC Angelfire; MARY KAY COSMETICS INC. Angus & Robertson; U S OFFICE PRODUCTS CO Anita Jean Cosmetics, Inc.; COSMETIC CENTER INC (THE) Anne Cole; AUTHENTIC FITNESS CORP Anne Geddes; ENESCO GROUP INC AnnTaylor; ANNTAYLOR STORES CORP AnnTaylor Factory Stores; ANNTAYLOR STORES CORP AnnTaylor Loft; ANNTAYLOR STORES CORP AnnTaylor Studio; ANNTAYLOR STORES CORP Anthropologie; URBAN OUTFITTERS INC Aon Corporation; UNITED AUTO GROUP INC APEX Drugstores Inc.; RITE AID CORPORATION Apora; AUTOZONE INC Arbor Drugs; CVS CORPORATION Arcus Media Group, Inc.; METRO GLOBAL MEDIA INC Arden B.; WET SEAL INC (THE) Arden-Mayfair, Inc.; ARDEN GROUP INC Artistic Checks; ARTISTIC GREETINGS INCORPORATED ARTISTRY; AMWAY CORPORATION Asda Group, PLC (U.K.); WAL MART STORES INC Ask Mike!; E4L INC Associates First Capital; SPS TRANSACTION SERVICES At Home With Lowe's; LOWE'S COS INC ATdenim; ANNTAYLOR STORES CORP ATEC One; ATEC GROUP INC Athletic Attic; JUST FOR FEET INC Atlanta Braves; TIME WARNER INC Atlantic Book Shops; DEB SHOPS INC Atlantic Book Warehouse; DEB SHOPS INC Audio King Corporation; ULTIMATE ELECTRONICS INC Authentic Fitness; AUTHENTIC FITNESS CORP Authentic GFC; GOODY'S FAMILY CLOTHING INC Auto Palace; AUTOZONE INC Auto Pool Auction Inc.; COPART INC Auto Salvage Pools, Inc.; COPART INC

580 Auto Storage Auction Pool; COPART INC Automotive Division; SHERWIN WILLIAMS COMPANY AutoNation USA; AUTONATION INC AutoNationDirect.com; AUTONATION INC AutoZone; AUTOZONE INC Avon Beauty Centers; AVON PRODUCTS INC Avon Color; AVON PRODUCTS INC Avon Refinery; TOSCO CORP B&B Enterprises, Inc.; SMART CHOICE AUTOMOTIVE B. Dalton Bookseller; BARNES & NOBLE INC Babbage's, Inc.; BABBAGE'S ETC Babies 'R' Us; TOYS R US INC Baby Depot; BURLINGTON COAT FACTORY BabyGap; GAP INC Bahamas Supermarkets Limited; WINN DIXIE STORES INC Bailey, Banks & Biddle; ZALE CORPORATION Baker's; FLEMING COMPANIES INC Bakers/Leeds; EDISON BROTHERS STORES INC Balgas; HERITAGE PROPANE PARTNERS Banana Republic; GAP INC Banking Systems Group; STERLING COMMERCE INC Baracuta and Cox; MEN'S WEARHOUSE INC (THE) Bar-B-Chef; BARBEQUES GALORE LIMITED Barbeuques Galore; BARBEQUES GALORE LIMITED Bargain Boutiques; GANTOS INC Bargain Wholesale; 99 CENTS ONLY STORES Barnes & Noble Booksellers; BARNES & NOBLE INC Bassett Boat Company of Florida, Inc.; MARINEMAX INC Bath & Body Works; INTIMATE BRANDS INC Bath & Body Works; LIMITED INC (THE) Batteries Batteries for Everything; BATTERIES BATTERIES Battery Max; BATTERIES BATTERIES INC Battery Network; BATTERIES BATTERIES INC Bayway Refinery; TOSCO CORP BB & Beyond; BED BATH & BEYOND INC BBC Investment Co.; BEST BUY CO INC BBC Property Co.; BEST BUY CO INC Beatrix Potter; ENESCO GROUP INC Beautiful Images; VALUEVISION INTERNATIONAL INC BeautyBuys.com; SYNERGY BRANDS INC Bebe; BEBE STORES INC Bebe Moda; BEBE STORES INC Bed & Bath; COLDWATER CREEK INC Bed & Bath Superstore; BED BATH & BEYOND INC Bedding Experts, Inc.; HEILIG MEYERS COMPANY Bellissimo Collection; JENNIFER CONVERTIBLES INC Belo Holdings; PEAPOD INC Benson Optical; STERLING VISION INC Berean Christian Stores; STANDEX INTERNATIONAL Bergdorf Goodman; NEIMAN MARCUS GROUP INC (THE) Bergdorf Goodman Men; NEIMAN MARCUS GROUP INC Bertelsmann A.G.; BARNES & NOBLE INC Best Buy Concepts, Inc.; BEST BUY CO INC Best Buy Online, Inc.; BEST BUY CO INC Best Buy Stores, L.P.; BEST BUY CO INC Bestway; BESTWAY INC Beyond Buttondowns; LANDS END INC BFS Acquisition Corp.; BIOZHEM COSMECEUTICALS Big Bear; CENTRAL TRACTOR FARM & COUNTRY INC Big Bear; PENN TRAFFIC COMPANY (THE) Big Bear Plus; PENN TRAFFIC COMPANY (THE) Big Big Dogs; BIG DOG HOLDINGS INC Big Daddy's; FLANIGAN'S ENTERPRISES INC Big Daddy's Liquors; FLANIGAN'S ENTERPRISES INC Big Daddy's Lounges; FLANIGAN'S ENTERPRISES INC

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 Big Dog USA, Inc.; BIG DOG HOLDINGS INC Big Lots; CONSOLIDATED STORES CORP Big Top Market; WEIS MARKETS INC Bijoux One; CLAIRE'S STORES INC BI-LO; AHOLD Bi-Lo Foods; PENN TRAFFIC COMPANY (THE) Biogime Franchise Services (USA), Inc.; BIOZHEM COSMECEUTICALS Birkat Rachel; SUPER-SOL LTD Bison Valve; BLUE RHINO CORPORATION Bi-State Propane; HERITAGE PROPANE PARTNERS BJ's Export, Inc.; BJ'S WHOLESALE CLUB INC Blackhawk's Convention Services, Inc.; AARON RENTS INC Blackwood Assets, Inc.; A C MOORE ARTS & CRAFTS Blair Retail Store; BLAIR CORPORATION Blair Warehouse Outlet; BLAIR CORPORATION Blockbuster; PUEBLO XTRA INTERNATIONAL, INC. Blockbuster Video; VIACOM INC Bloomingdale's; FEDERATED DEPARTMENT STORES Blue Asphalt; WET SEAL INC (THE) Blue Rhino; BLUE RHINO CORPORATION Blue Star; U S OFFICE PRODUCTS CO Blue Star Group, Ltd.; U S OFFICE PRODUCTS CO BMC West Corp; BUILDING MATERIALS HOLDING BMW; CROSS CONTINENT AUTO BOGO's; EAGLE FOOD CENTERS INC Bon-Ton; BON-TON STORES INC (THE) Boogaarts Food Stores; FLEMING COMPANIES INC Book$mart; BOOKS A MILLION INC Bookland; BOOKS A MILLION INC Books & Co.; BOOKS A MILLION INC Books 'R' Us; TOYS R US INC Books, etc.; BORDERS GROUP INC Booksaloud.com; AUDIO BOOK CLUB INC Books-A-Million; BOOKS A MILLION INC Bookstar; BARNES & NOBLE INC Bookstop; BARNES & NOBLE INC Borders Group; ELECTRONICS BOUTIQUE HOLDINGS Borders Online, Inc.; BORDERS GROUP INC Borders, Inc.; BORDERS GROUP INC Borders.com; BORDERS GROUP INC Boston Store; PROFFITTS, INC. Boston Traders; DESIGNS INC Botanical Benefits; NATURE'S SUNSHINE PRODUCTS INC BotanikaBaby; GARDEN BOTANIKA INC Botanikids; GARDEN BOTANIKA INC Bourbon Street Gallery; ELEGANT ILLUSIONS INC Bow Bangles; CLAIRE'S STORES INC Bradlee's Stores; BRADLEES INC BrakeBest; O'REILLY AUTOMOTIVE INC Brass Buckle; BUCKLE INC (THE) Brauns; BRAUN'S FASHIONS CORPORATION Bread & Circus; WHOLE FOODS MARKET INC Breakdown; PACIFIC SUNWEAR OF CALIFORNIA INC Brett; BRYLANE INC Brevard Boat Company; MARINEMAX INC Bring Home the Fun; FUNCO INC British Links Golf Classics; SUCCESSORIES INC British Petroleum; TOSCO CORP Broadcast, Cable, and Satellite Technologies; SHOP AT HOME Brookstone; BROOKSTONE INC Brownstone; DIPLOMAT DIRECT MARKETING Bruno's; BRUNO'S INC Bryn Mawr Stereo & Video; TWEETER HOME ENTERTAINMENT

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 BSQ Transfreee Corporation; HECHINGER CO Buckhorn Family Restaurants; TRAVEL PORTS OF AMERICA Buddies; WINN DIXIE STORES INC Budgetel Inns; MARCUS CORPORATION (THE) Bud's Discount City; WAL MART STORES INC Builders Square; HECHINGER CO Builders Square; KMART CORPORATION Bullhead; PACIFIC SUNWEAR OF CALIFORNIA INC Burdine's; FEDERATED DEPARTMENT STORES INC Bureau En Gros; STAPLES INC Burlington Coat Factory; BURLINGTON COAT FACTORY Business Depot; STAPLES INC Business Express; U S OFFICE PRODUCTS CO Buttrey Food and Drug Stores Company; ALBERTSONS INC BuyDirect; BEYOND.COM C&R Clothiers Inc.; MEN'S WEARHOUSE INC (THE) Cable News Network; TIME WARNER INC Cabot Noble; SHOPKO STORES INC Cache; CACHE INC Cacique; INTIMATE BRANDS INC Cal Vista; METRO GLOBAL MEDIA INC Caliber Logistics; FEDERAL EXPRESS CORP California Design Studio; BEBE STORES INC Calloway's Nursery; CALLOWAY'S NURSERY INC Camelot Music Holdings; TRANS WORLD ENTERTAINMENT CORP Capers Whole Foods Markets; WILD OATS MARKETS INC Capital Pawnbrokers, Inc.; FIRST CASH INC Capt N Cook; BARBEQUES GALORE LIMITED Carb0Tech; TREND LINES INC Carlyn Advertising Agency, Inc.; VALUE CITY DEPARTMENT STORES INC CarMax; CIRCUIT CITY GROUP Carmine's Prime Meats; CBRL GROUP INC Carol Wright Gifts; PROTEAM.COM INC Carolane Propane Gas; HERITAGE PROPANE PARTNERS Carolina Cinema, Corporation; CARMIKE CINEMAS INC CarpetMAX; MAXIM GROUP INC (THE) Carroll Automotive Group; GROUP 1 AUTOMOTIVE INC Carroll Reed; J JILL GROUP INC (THE) Carrs Quality Centers; CARR-GOTTSTEIN FOODS CO. Carson Pirie Scott; PROFFITTS, INC. CarTemps USA; AUTONATION INC Casa Ley, S.A. de C.V.; SAFEWAY INC Casey's Marketing Company; CASEY'S GENERAL STORES Casey's Services Company; CASEY'S GENERAL STORES Casino Frozen Foods Inc.; SMART & FINAL INC Casino Magic Neuquen S. A.; CROWN GROUP INC Casual Male Big & Tall; J BAKER INC Catalina; AUTHENTIC FITNESS CORP Catalink Direct, Inc.; ELCOM INTERNATIONAL INC Catherines of California, Inc.; CATHERINES STORES CORP Catherines of Pennsylvania, Inc.; CATHERINES STORES Catherines, Inc.; CATHERINES STORES CORPORATION Cato Fashions; CATO CORP Cato Plus; CATO CORP CD Management, Inc.; CD WAREHOUSE INC CD Warehouse; CD WAREHOUSE INC CDNow, Inc.; N2K INC CD-ROM WAREHOUSE; MICRO WAREHOUSE INC CDW Government, Inc.; CDW COMPUTER CENTERS INC Cederroth; ALBERTO-CULVER COMPANY Celebrity Secrets; SPECIALITY CATALOG CORP Celex Group; SUCCESSORIES INC

581 CellStar Asia; CELLSTAR CORPORATION CellStar Pacific; CELLSTAR CORPORATION Centaur Communications; GRIFFIN LAND & NURSERIES Centers Holdings, Inc.; HECHINGER CO Centertainment, Inc.; AMC ENTERTAINMENT INC Central Minnesota Salvage Center; COPART INC Central Tractor Farm & Country; CENTRAL TRACTOR FARM & COUNTRY INC CGI Holdings, Inc.; CORNERSTONE PROPANE PARTNERS LP Chadwick's of Boston; TJX COMPANIES INC Chadwick's of Boston; BRYLANE INC Chaisson BMW; CROSS CONTINENT AUTO Chambers; WILLIAMS SONOMA INC Champion; SPORT SUPPLY GROUP INC Champs Sports; VENATOR GROUP INC Charlie Carters; COLES MYER LTD Charming Shoppes; CHARMING SHOPPES INC Checker Auto Parts; CSK AUTO INC CheckFree Wallet; CHECKFREE CORP ChemWay Systems, Inc.; EVANS SYSTEMS INC Cherished Teddies; ENESCO GROUP INC Chevrolet; CROSS CONTINENT AUTO ChickClick.com; DELIA'S INC Chico's; CHICO'S FAS INC Chico's Outlet; CHICO'S FAS INC Chief; AUTOZONE INC Childcraft Education; SCHOOL SPECIALTY INC Chilton Publications; WALT DISNEY COMPANY (THE) Choice Cigarette Discount Outlets; UNI MARTS INC Christine Jordan; SPECIALITY CATALOG CORP Christopher & Banks; BRAUN'S FASHIONS CORP Cinco Continentes; SANTA ISABEL Cinemark, USA; CARMIKE CINEMAS INC CinemaStar; CINEMASTAR LUXURY THEATERS INC CinemaStar Luxury Theaters, S.A. de C.V.; CINEMASTAR LUXURY THEATERS INC Cineplex Odeon; LOEWS CINEPLEX ENTERTAINMENT Cinetropolis; IWERKS ENTERTAINMENT INC Circle K; TOSCO CORP Circuit City; CARMAX GROUP Circuit City; CIRCUIT CITY GROUP Citigroup; CORT BUSINESS SERVICES CORPORATION City Produce Operating Corp.; GRISTEDE'S SLOAN'S INC Claire's Accessories; CLAIRE'S STORES INC Claire's Boutiques; CLAIRE'S STORES INC Classics That Work; TALBOTS INC (THE) ClearTek; MICROTOUCH SYSTEMS INC Cliffco; BATTERIES BATTERIES INC Cloth World; JO ANN STORES INC Cloverfield Dairy; CUMBERLAND FARMS INC Club OSH; ORCHARD SUPPLY HARDWARE Coast Energy Group; CORNERSTONE PROPANE PARTNERS LP Coatings Segment; SHERWIN WILLIAMS COMPANY Coca Cola; ENESCO GROUP INC Coconuts Music & Movies; TRANS WORLD ENTERTAINMENT CORP Coffee Mills; MARCUS CORPORATION (THE) Cohoes Fashions; BURLINGTON COAT FACTORY Cole National Group, Inc.; COLE NATIONAL CORP Cole of California; AUTHENTIC FITNESS CORP Cole Vision Corporation; COLE NATIONAL CORP Coles Myer; PEAPOD INC Coles Myer Finance Limited; COLES MYER LTD

582 Collectibles.com; SHOP AT HOME INC Colloidal Silver; NATURE'S SUNSHINE PRODUCTS INC Colonial Garden Kitchens; HANOVER DIRECT INC Color Shield; MARY KAY COSMETICS INC. Colorado; VENATOR GROUP INC Colorful Images; CONCEPTS DIRECT INC Columbia House Audiobook Club; AUDIO BOOK CLUB INC Columbus Depot Equipment Company; TOTAL SYSTEM SERVICES INC Columbus Productions, Inc.; TOTAL SYSTEM SERVICES Comcast; MICROSOFT CORP Comfortech; FLORSHEIM GROUP INC Coming Home; LANDS END INC Commerce Services Group; STERLING COMMERCE INC Commercial Finance Division; GREEN TREE FINANCIAL Communications Software Group; STERLING COMMERCE Compact Discs International, Ltd.; CD WAREHOUSE INC Compaq Computer Corp.; SHOPPING.COM Compaq Works; COMPAQ COMPUTER CORP CompUSA Computer Superstores; COMP USA INC CompUSA Direct; COMP USA INC CompuServe; AMERICA ONLINE INC Computer Based Controls; ELECTRONIC CLEARING HOUSE Computer City, Inc.; COMP USA INC Computer Currents Interactive Software Shop; BEYOND.COM Computer Literacy Bookshops, Inc.; FATBRAIN.COM INC Computer Specialties, Inc.; ELCOM INTERNATIONAL INC Computer Systems Group; NCR CORPORATION Computerware, Inc.; ELCOM INTERNATIONAL INC Concord Computing Corporation; CONCORD EFS INC Concord Equipment Sales, Inc.; CONCORD EFS INC Concord Retail Services, Inc.; CONCORD EFS INC Concorde Acceptance Corporation; CROWN GROUP INC Consumer Brands Division; SHERWIN WILLIAMS CO Consumer Card Services Group; AMERICAN EXPRESS CO Consumer Finance Division; GREEN TREE FINANCIAL Consumers Food & Drug; FLEMING COMPANIES INC Contact Lenses Online, Inc.; 1 800 CONTACTS Contempo Casuals; WET SEAL INC (THE) ContentsOnline.com; DELIA'S INC Continental Airlines; SKYMALL INC Contractor Supply; PAYLESS CASHWAYS INC Contractors' Warehouse; GROSSMAN'S INC Convenience Store Distributing Company; MARSH SUPERMARKETS INC Convenience Stores; EVANS SYSTEMS INC Cony Computer Systems, Inc.; ATEC GROUP INC Cook-On; BARBEQUES GALORE LIMITED Cooks Club; LECHTERS INC CopyMax; OFFICEMAX INC Cornerstone Propane, L.P.; CORNERSTONE PROPANE PARTNERS LP Corporate Sales; LANDS END INC CORT Furniture Rental Corp; CORT BUSINESS SERVICES Cost Plus World Market; COST PLUS INC Costco Wholesale; COSTCO COMPANIES INC Costco Wholesale Japan, Ltd.; COSTCO COMPANIES INC Cost-U-Less; COST U LESS INC Country Britches; MEN'S WEARHOUSE INC (THE) Country General, Inc.; CENTRAL TRACTOR FARM & COUNTRY INC Cracker Barrel Old Country Store; CBRL GROUP INC Cradle Gym; GYMBOREE CORP (THE) CRC Ahold; AHOLD

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 Creative Computers, Inc.; UBID INC Credit & Risk Management Associates; FAIR ISAAC AND COMPANY INC Credit Card Management System, Inc.; FLORAFAX INTERNATIONAL INC CreditDesk; FAIR ISAAC AND COMPANY INC Crest Fruit Company; STANDEX INTERNATIONAL CORP CRH International, Inc.; HILLS STORES COMPANY Cricketeer; MEN'S WEARHOUSE INC (THE) Crown Books East Corporation; CROWN BOOKS CORP Crown Books National Corporation; CROWN BOOKS CORP Crown Books West Corporation; CROWN BOOKS CORP Crown DHC Corporation; CROWN BOOKS CORP Crystal Food Services; MARSH SUPERMARKETS INC CS Ross Company; CONSOLIDATED STORES CORP CSC Distribution, Inc.; CONSOLIDATED STORES CORP CSO; DEB SHOPS INC Cub Food Stores; SUPERVALU INC Cumberland Farms; CUMBERLAND FARMS INC CVS; LINENS N THINGS INC CVS Revco D.S., Inc.; FRED'S INC CWC Beverage Corp.; BJ'S WHOLESALE CLUB INC Cybermax; RIVERSIDE GROUP INC cybershop.com; CYBER SHOP INTERNATIONAL INC D.E.M.O.; PACIFIC SUNWEAR OF CALIFORNIA INC Dabus Dataprodukter AB; SYSTEMAX INC Dairy Mart; DAIRY MART CONVENIENCE STORES INC Dairy Queen; BOWLIN OUTDOOR ADVERTISING & TRAV CTRS INC Dairy Queen/Brazier; BOWLIN OUTDOOR ADVERTISING & TRAV CTRS INC Dara Michelle; CLAIRE'S STORES INC Dart Group Corporation; TRAK AUTO CORPORATION Dash; PANTRY INC (THE) Data CommWAREHOUSE; MICRO WAREHOUSE INC Data Documents, Inc.; CORPORATE EXPRESS INC Data Supplies Limited; ELCOM INTERNATIONAL INC DataCom Mall; CREATIVE COMPUTERS INC David Winter Cottages; ENESCO GROUP INC Day Radiance; MARY KAY COSMETICS INC. Dayton's; DAYTON HUDSON CORPORATION DB/DBW; DRESS BARN INC (THE) DB2 universla Database; IBM De Laurentis Cineplex; LOEWS CINEPLEX ENTERTAINMENT CORP Dean Witter, Discover & Co.; SPS TRANSACTION SERVICES INC Dear Albertson's; ALBERTSONS INC DEB; DEB SHOPS INC DEB PLUS; DEB SHOPS INC Decelle; BURLINGTON COAT FACTORY WAREHOUSE Delchamp's, Inc.; BRUNO'S INC Dell Dimension XPS; DELL COMPUTER CORPORATION Dell Latitude; DELL COMPUTER CORPORATION Dell Latitude XP; DELL COMPUTER CORPORATION Dell OptiPlex; DELL COMPUTER CORPORATION Dell PowerEdge; DELL COMPUTER CORPORATION Delta Airlines Southwest Airlines; SKYMALL INC Denny's Restaurants- Japan; ITO YOKADO CO LTD Departures Magazine; AMERICAN EXPRESS CO Designs; DESIGNS INC Deskpro; COMPAQ COMPUTER CORP Destination; ANNTAYLOR STORES CORP Diamond Park Division; ZALE CORPORATION Diamond Park Fine Jewelers; FINLAY ENTERPRISES INC

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 Digicom Spolka zo.o; CELLSTAR CORPORATION Digital Equipment Corp.; COMPAQ COMPUTER CORP Digital Video Express, LP; CIRCUIT CITY GROUP Dihann Caroll; SPECIALITY CATALOG CORP Dillon Companies, Inc.; KROGER CO (THE) Dillon Food Stores; KROGER CO (THE) Direct Alliance Corporation; INSIGHT ENTERPRISES INC DirectAmerica; E4L INC DirectMax Plus; OFFICEMAX INC Disc Go Round; CD WAREHOUSE INC Disc Go Round; CD WAREHOUSE INC Disco-Ahold International; AHOLD Discount Auto Parts; DISCOUNT AUTO PARTS INC Disney Consumer Products; WALT DISNEY COMPANY DisplayConnection; TRANS-LUX CORPORATION Distribution Fulfillment Services, Inc.; SPIEGEL INC Diversified Brands Division; SHERWIN WILLIAMS CO Diversion; PACIFIC SUNWEAR OF CALIFORNIA INC Dobbins; ZALE CORPORATION Docks U.S.A., Inc.; PANTRY INC (THE) Dodge; CROSS CONTINENT AUTO Dollar Bill$; DOLLAR TREE STORES INC Dollar General Stores; DOLLAR GENERAL CORP Dollar Tree Distribution, Inc.; DOLLAR TREE STORES INC Dollar Tree Management, Inc.; DOLLAR TREE STORES INC Domestications; HANOVER DIRECT INC Dominion; GREAT ATLANTIC & PACIFIC TEA CO Doubleday Book Shops; BARNES & NOBLE INC Douglas Toyota, Inc.; CROSS CONTINENT AUTO Dress Barn; DRESS BARN INC (THE) Dress Barn Woman; DRESS BARN INC (THE) Drug Emporium; DRUG EMPORIUM INC Drugstore.com; AMAZON.COM INC DSW Shoe Warehouse, Inc.; VALUE CITY DEPARTMENT STORES INC Duane Reade; DUANE READE INC Duckwall; DUCKWALL ALCO STORES INC Duet Dual Action Scanner; PSC INC Duralast; AUTOZONE INC Durham & Company; SKYMALL INC Dutch Boy; SHERWIN WILLIAMS COMPANY (THE) Dyer Volvo; SONIC AUTOMOTIVE INC DynaMark; TOTAL SYSTEM SERVICES INC DynaMark Risk Management Technologies; FAIR ISAAC AND COMPANY E&B Discount Marine, Inc.; WEST MARINE INC E&B Marine, Inc.; WEST MARINE INC e4L, Inc.; E4L INC Eagle Country Markets; EAGLE FOOD CENTERS INC Eagle Country Warehouse; EAGLE FOOD CENTERS INC Eagle Food Centers; EAGLE FOOD CENTERS INC Eagle Hardware & Garden; EAGLE HARDWARE & GARDEN INC Eagle Managed Care Corporation; RITE AID CORPORATION Eagle Quality Centers; CARR-GOTTSTEIN FOODS CO. Earth Care; REAL GOODS TRADING CORPORATION Eastbay; VENATOR GROUP INC Easter Foods; NASH FINCH COMPANY Eastern Automotive Warehouse, Inc.; DISCOUNT AUTO PARTS INC Eastman Office Products; OFFICE DEPOT INC ECHO Payment Services, Inc.; ELECTRONIC CLEARING HOUSE INC ECHOcash; ELECTRONIC CLEARING HOUSE INC ECHOfaxpay; ELECTRONIC CLEARING HOUSE INC

583 ECHOonline; ELECTRONIC CLEARING HOUSE INC ECHOtel; ELECTRONIC CLEARING HOUSE INC Eckerd Corporation; J C PENNEY COMPANY INC Eckler Industries, Inc.; SMART CHOICE AUTOMOTIVE Ecology Kids; DIPLOMAT DIRECT MARKETING Econofoods; NASH FINCH COMPANY Economart; NASH FINCH COMPANY Economy Drive-In; FFP PARTNERS LP EcoSong; COLDWATER CREEK INC EDCO Environmental; EVANS SYSTEMS INC Eddie Bauer Catalog Division; SPIEGEL INC Eddie Bauer Retail Division; SPIEGEL INC Eddie Bauer, Inc.; SPIEGEL INC Editors service; AMAZON.COM INC EFS Federal Savings Bank; CONCORD EFS INC EFS National Bank; CONCORD EFS INC El-Bee Chargit Corporation; ELDER BEERMAN STORES Elcom.com, Inc.; ELCOM INTERNATIONAL INC Electra; AMERICA ONLINE INC Electronic Commerce Division; CHECKFREE CORP Electronics Boutique; ELECTRONICS BOUTIQUE HOLDINGS CORP. Electronics Boutique Holdings Corp.; ELECTRONICS BOUTIQUE HOLDINGS CORP. Electronics Boutique Plc's; ELECTRONICS BOUTIQUE HOLDINGS CORP. electronics.net; CYBER SHOP INTERNATIONAL INC Elegant Floors, Inc.; FIRST CASH INC Elegant Ilusions; ELEGANT ILLUSIONS INC Elmi; SANTA ISABEL Emil's Market; GOTTSCHALKS INC Empire Energy Corporation; CORNERSTONE PROPANE PARTNERS LP Encounter in the Third Dimension; IWERKS ENTERTAINMENT INC Entertainment Asylum; AMERICA ONLINE INC Equifax Credit Information Services, Inc.; EQUIFAX INC Equifax Europe Ltd.; EQUIFAX INC Equifax Healthcare Information Services, Inc.; EQUIFAX INC Equifax Payment Services, Inc.; EQUIFAX INC Equifax Services; EQUIFAX INC Equifax South America, Inc.; EQUIFAX INC Equipment Finance Division; GREEN TREE FINANCIAL Erb's; WEIS MARKETS INC E-Series; GATEWAY INC Especially Yours; SPECIALITY CATALOG CORP Essentially Group; SOFTWARE SPECTRUM Essentials For Home Club; DAMARK INTERNATIONAL Eurosport; BRAUN'S FASHIONS CORPORATION Eva Gabor; SPECIALITY CATALOG CORP Evans; EVANS INC Evans Woman; EVANS INC Exparte; BRAUN'S FASHIONS CORPORATION Experience the Fun at FuncoLand; FUNCO INC EXPO Design Center; HOME DEPOT INC Express; LIMITED INC (THE) Express Stop; PANTRY INC (THE) Exxon--Arizona; TOSCO CORP EZ Layaway; EZCORP INC EZ Money Center; EZCORP INC EZ Pawn; EZCORP INC EZbid, Inc.; SYSTEMAX INC F&I Products; TRAVIS BOAT & MOTORS INC F&M Super Drug Stores; DRUG EMPORIUM INC

584 F.Y.E., For Your Entertainment; TRANS WORLD ENTERTAINMENT CORP Fabric Warehouse; HANCOCK FABRICS INC Facconable; NORDSTROM INC Factory 2-U; FACTORY 2 U STORES INC Factory 2-U Stores, Inc.; FACTORY 2 U STORES INC Factory Card Outlet; FACTORY CARD OUTLET CORP Factory To You; GENESCO INC Factura Composites; MICROTOUCH SYSTEMS INC Familiy Bargain Corporation; FACTORY 2 U STORES INC Family Bargain Center; FACTORY 2 U STORES INC Family Dollar; FAMILY DOLLAR STORES INC Family Thrift Center; NASH FINCH COMPANY Famous Brands Housewares Outlet; LECHTERS INC Famous Pawn, Inc.; FIRST CASH INC Famous-Barr; MAY DEPARTMENT STORES COMPANY Fanzine International; METRO GLOBAL MEDIA INC Far Away; AVON PRODUCTS INC Farm Fresh; RICHFOOD HOLDINGS INC Farmer Jack; GREAT ATLANTIC & PACIFIC TEA CO Fashion Bug; CHARMING SHOPPES INC Fashion Bug Plus; CHARMING SHOPPES INC Fast Trak; ULTIMATE ELECTRONICS INC Fat Grabbers; NATURE'S SUNSHINE PRODUCTS INC Fay's Incorporated; J C PENNEY COMPANY INC Fedo Finance, Inc.; SMART CHOICE AUTOMOTIVE Ferrellgas, Inc.; FERRELLGAS PARTNERS L P Ferrellgas, L.P.; FERRELLGAS PARTNERS L P FFP Marketing Company; FFP PARTNERS LP FFP Partners; FFP PARTNERS LP Figi's Inc.; FINGERHUT COMPANIES INC Filene's; MAY DEPARTMENT STORES COMPANY (THE) Filene's Basement; FILENE'S BASEMENT CORP Financial Systems Group; NCR CORPORATION Fingerhut Corporation; FINGERHUT COMPANIES INC Fingerhut National Bank; FINGERHUT COMPANIES INC Finish Line & Design; FINISH LINE INC (THE) Finlay Fine Jewelry Corporation; FINLAY ENTERPRISES First Consumers National Bank; SPIEGEL INC First Data Information Group; FIRST DATA CORP First Data Investor Services Group; FIRST DATA CORP First Data Merchant Services Corporation; FIRST DATA First International Theatres; CARMIKE CINEMAS INC Fit for Men; BURLINGTON COAT FACTORY Flanagan Microclusters; GLOBENET INTERNATIONAL Flanigan's; FLANIGAN'S ENTERPRISES INC Flanigan's Enterprises Inc. of Georgia; FLANIGAN'S ENTERPRISES INC Flanigan's Management Services, Inc.; FLANIGAN'S ENTERPRISES INC Flanigan's Seafood Bar and Grill; FLANIGAN'S ENTERPRISES INC FloraCash; FLORAFAX INTERNATIONAL INC Florsheim Frogs; FLORSHEIM GROUP INC Florsheim Golf; FLORSHEIM GROUP INC FLS; FLORSHEIM GROUP INC Foley's; MAY DEPARTMENT STORES COMPANY (THE) Food & Wine Magazine; AMERICAN EXPRESS CO Food 4 Less Holdings, Inc.; FRED MEYER INC Food Bonanza; NASH FINCH COMPANY Food Emporium; GREAT ATLANTIC & PACIFIC TEA CO Food Fair; FOOD LION INC Food Folks; NASH FINCH COMPANY Food Lion; FOOD LION INC Food Town; SEAWAY FOOD TOWN INC

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 Food Town Plus; SEAWAY FOOD TOWN INC Food World; BRUNO'S INC Foodarama; FOODARAMA SUPERMARKETS, INC. Foodland Distributors; KROGER CO (THE) FoodMax; BRUNO'S INC Foot Locker; VENATOR GROUP INC Footaction; FOOTSTAR INC Forelli; UNITED RETAIL GROUP INC Fort Mill Chrysler-Plymouth-Dodge; SONIC AUTOMOTIVE Fort Mill Ford; SONIC AUTOMOTIVE INC Fox Theaters Corporation; CARMIKE CINEMAS INC Franklin Day Planner; FRANKLIN COVEY CO Franklin Quest Consulting Group; FRANKLIN COVEY CO Franklin Quest Institute of Fitness; FRANKLIN COVEY CO Franklin TimeQuest; FRANKLIN COVEY CO Frappucino; STARBUCKS CORP Fred Meyer; FRED MEYER INC Fred Meyer, Inc.; KROGER CO (THE) Fred's; FRED'S INC Fred's Super Dollar Store; FRED'S INC Fred's Xpress; FRED'S INC Fresh Fields; WHOLE FOODS MARKET INC Friedman's Jewelry; FRIEDMAN'S INC Frontier Oldsmobile-Cadillac; SONIC AUTOMOTIVE INC Fulcrum Direct, Inc.; DELIA'S INC Funco; FUNCO INC FuncoLand; FUNCO INC FuncoLand Fun Club; FUNCO INC FuncoLand National Video Game Championship; FUNCO INC FunScape; REGAL CINEMAS INC FurnitureMax; OFFICEMAX INC Furrow; PAYLESS CASHWAYS INC Fuzziwigs; ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY FWC Beverage Corp.; BJ'S WHOLESALE CLUB INC G&P Hotel Group; COLES MYER LTD Gallery of History; GALLERY OF HISTORY INC Galyan's Trading Co.; LIMITED INC (THE) Gal-Yarok; SUPER-SOL LTD Game Informer; FUNCO INC Gaming Services Unit; FIRST DATA CORP Gantos; GANTOS INC Gap; GAP INC Gap Warehouse; GAP INC GapKids; GAP INC Garden Botanika; GARDEN BOTANIKA INC Garden Botanika Natural Color; GARDEN BOTANIKA INC Garden Ridge Finance Corporation; GARDEN RIDGE CORP Garden Ridge Investment, Inc.; GARDEN RIDGE CORP Garden Ridge Management, Inc.; GARDEN RIDGE CORP Garden Ridge, L.P.; GARDEN RIDGE CORPORATION Gardeners Eden; WILLIAMS SONOMA INC Gart Sports Company; GART SPORTS COMPANY Gas Service Company; HERITAGE PROPANE PARTNERS GATEWAY 2000; GATEWAY INC Gateway Country Stores; GATEWAY INC Gateway Gear; GATEWAY INC Gateway Partners; GATEWAY INC Gateway Solo; GATEWAY INC GB Retailers, Inc.; VALUE CITY DEPARTMENT STORES GCO-Carpet Outlets; MAXIM GROUP INC (THE) GDF, Inc.; RITE AID CORPORATION Gear.com; AMAZON.COM INC Gelson's Markets; ARDEN GROUP INC Genender International, Inc.; BEBE STORES INC General Cinema Theaters; GC COMPANIES INC

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 General Furniture Leasing; CORT BUSINESS SERVICES General Growth Properties, Inc.; CINEMASTAR LUXURY THEATERS INC General Nutrition Centers; GENERAL NUTRITION CO General Textiles; FACTORY 2 U STORES INC Genji; MARY KAY COSMETICS INC. Genovese Drug Stores; GENOVESE DRUG STORES INC Georgetown Leather Design; WILSONS THE LEATHER EXPERTS INC Gerald Stevens, Inc.; FLORAFAX INTERNATIONAL INC Getty Marketing, Inc.; GETTY PETROLEUM MARKETING Getty Realty Corp.; GETTY PETROLEUM MARKETING GFC Trading Co.; GOODY'S FAMILY CLOTHING INC Giant Food Stores; AHOLD Gigi; BRAUN'S FASHIONS CORPORATION Globe Clearance Centers; GLOBE BUSINESS RESOURCES Globe Corporate Stay International; GLOBE BUSINESS RESOURCES INC Globe Furniture Rentals; GLOBE BUSINESS RESOURCES Globe Instant Office; GLOBE BUSINESS RESOURCES INC GlobeNet International; GLOBENET INTERNATIONAL Glorious Nest; WELCOME HOME INC Gold Eagle; SPORT SUPPLY GROUP INC Goldblatt's Department Stores, Inc.; JG INDUSTRIES INC Goldsmith's; FEDERATED DEPARTMENT STORES INC Golf Day; TREND LINES INC Good Kidz; GOODY'S FAMILY CLOTHING INC Gordon's Division; ZALE CORPORATION Gottschalks; GOTTSCHALKS INC Great Deal Pack Club; DAMARK INTERNATIONAL INC Great Xpectations; GLOBENET INTERNATIONAL Green Tree Mortgage Services; GREEN TREE FINANCIAL Green Tree Retail Credit Services; GREEN TREE FINANCIAL CORP Gresswell; SCHOOL SPECIALTY INC Griffin Land; GRIFFIN LAND & NURSERIES Gristede's; GRISTEDE'S SLOAN'S INC Gristede's Sloan's, Inc.; GRISTEDE'S SLOAN'S INC Gryphon Development; INTIMATE BRANDS INC Guild Division; ZALE CORPORATION Guitar Center Flagship Hollywood; GUITAR CENTER INC Gulf Division; CUMBERLAND FARMS INC Gulf Oil Limited Partnership; CUMBERLAND FARMS INC Gump's; HANOVER DIRECT INC gURLNet.com; DELIA'S INC GymBaby; GYMBOREE CORP (THE) Gymbo; GYMBOREE CORP (THE) Gymboree; GYMBOREE CORP (THE) Gymboree Gift Center; GYMBOREE CORP (THE) Gymboree Play Programs; GYMBOREE CORP (THE) Habros Convenience Stores N.V.; DAIRY MART CONVENIENCE STORES INC Hamilton Beach/Proctor-Silex, Inc.; NACCO INDUSTRIES Hancock Fabrics; HANCOCK FABRICS INC Hannaford; HANNAFORD BROS CO Hannaford Trucking Company; HANNAFORD BROS CO Hannaford's Home Runs; HANNAFORD BROS CO Harco, Inc.; RITE AID CORPORATION Harcourt General, Inc.; NEIMAN MARCUS GROUP INC Hardy; GENESCO INC Harold Powell; HAROLD'S STORES INC Harold's; HAROLD'S STORES INC Harris Teeter, Inc.; RUDDICK CORPORATION Harry's; HARRY'S FARMERS MARKET INC Harry's In A Hurry; HARRY'S FARMERS MARKET INC

585 Harvey Electronics; HARVEY ELECTRONICS INC Hatfield Jewelers; SAMUELS JEWELERS INC Havertys Furniture; HAVERTY FURNITURE COS INC Hawaii Shoes Stores; NORDSTROM INC Health 'n' Home Corporation; AMERICAN STORES CO HEARx; HEARX LTD Hechinger Stores Company; HECHINGER CO Hecht's; MAY DEPARTMENT STORES COMPANY (THE) Heilig-Meyers; HEILIG MEYERS COMPANY Henry Lee Company; SMART & FINAL INC Herbal HP Fighters; NATURE'S SUNSHINE PRODUCTS Herberger's; PROFFITTS, INC. Heritage Operating; HERITAGE PROPANE PARTNERS Heritage Propane; HERITAGE PROPANE PARTNERS HGTV; HANCOCK FABRICS INC Hibbett Sports; HIBBETT SPORTING GOODS INC Hibbett Team Sales, Inc.; HIBBETT SPORTING GOODS INC Hicks Muse & KKR; REGAL CINEMAS INC HiFi Buys; TWEETER HOME ENTERTAINMENT High's Dairy Stores; 7-ELEVEN INC Hills Department Stores; HILLS STORES COMPANY Hills Stores Company; HILLS STORES COMPANY Hoax; PACIFIC SUNWEAR OF CALIFORNIA INC Hoffritz; INTERNATIONAL CUTLERY LTD Hold Everything; WILLIAMS SONOMA INC Holiday RV Assurance Service, Inc.; HOLIDAY RV SUPERSTORES Holiday RV Rental/Leasing,; HOLIDAY RV SUPERSTORES Holiday RV Superstores of New Mexico, Inc.; HOLIDAY RV SUPERSTORES Holiday RV Superstores of South Atlanta, Inc.; HOLIDAY RV SUPERSTORES Holiday RV Superstores of South Carolina, Inc.; HOLIDAY RV SUPERSTORES Holiday RV Superstores West, Inc.; HOLIDAY RV SUPERSTORES HolidayRV.com; HOLIDAY RV SUPERSTORES Hollywood Video; MOVIE GALLERY INC Holoscan, Inc.; METROLOGIC INSTRUMENTS INC HoloTrak; METROLOGIC INSTRUMENTS INC Holton's L.P. Gas; HERITAGE PROPANE PARTNERS Home Again; WELCOME HOME INC Home Box Office; TIME WARNER INC Home Depot; HOME DEPOT INC Home Depot Canada; HOME DEPOT INC Home Improvement Division; GREEN TREE FINANCIAL Home Quarters Warehouse, Inc.; HECHINGER CO Home Stay Lodge I, Ltd.; CROWN GROUP INC HomeBase; HOMEBASE INC HomeGoods; TJX COMPANIES INC Homegrocer.com; AMAZON.COM INC Homeland Savings Card; HOMELAND HOLDING CORP Homeland Stores, Inc.; HOMELAND HOLDING CORP HomeVision Entertainment; MOVIE GALLERY INC Honors; TREND LINES INC Horchow; NEIMAN MARCUS GROUP INC (THE) HORIZON; FAIR ISAAC AND COMPANY INC Horizon Home Care; HORIZON PHARMACIES INC Hornbachers; SUPERVALU INC Host International; HOST MARRIOTT SERVICES CORP Host Marriott Tollroads, Inc.; HOST MARRIOTT SERVICES Hot Dot Foods; GRAND UNION COMPANY (THE) Hot Topic; HOT TOPIC INC House of Fabrics, Inc.; JO ANN STORES INC Hub Furniture; HEILIG MEYERS COMPANY

586 Hudson's; DAYTON HUDSON CORPORATION Hugh M. Woods; PAYLESS CASHWAYS INC Hurley State Bank; SPS TRANSACTION SERVICES INC Huster; NACCO INDUSTRIES INC Hyper Shoppes, Inc.; SUPERVALU INC Hypercol; SUPER-SOL LTD Hyper-Netto; SUPER-SOL LTD Ibid; MICROTOUCH SYSTEMS INC IBM; IBM IBM Global Network; IBM Ikard & Newsom; HERITAGE PROPANE PARTNERS Imax Theatres; LOEWS CINEPLEX ENTERTAINMENT Imperial; FLORSHEIM GROUP INC Imperial Nurseries, Inc.; GRIFFIN LAND & NURSERIES Imperial Sports; JUST FOR FEET INC Imposters; PREMIER CONCEPTS INC Impressions; CONCEPTS DIRECT INC Improvements; HANOVER DIRECT INC InfiStar Corporation; FIRST DATA CORP Infoseek; WALT DISNEY COMPANY (THE) Infotel, Inc.; SYSTEMAX INC Ingles; INGLES MARKETS INC Ingram Book Group; BARNES & NOBLE INC Inmac; MICRO WAREHOUSE INC Innovative Business Micros, Inc.; ATEC GROUP INC Insight Direct, Inc.; INSIGHT ENTERPRISES INC Insight Laser Centers; STERLING VISION INC Instant Interiors Corp; CORT BUSINESS SERVICES CORP Institute for Solar Living; REAL GOODS TRADING CORP Institutional Investment Services Division; CHECKFREE Insurance Division; GREEN TREE FINANCIAL CORP Integrated Systems Engineering, Inc.; TRANS-LUX CORP Interactive Solutions Corp.; CHECKFREE CORP Interchange Software Group; STERLING COMMERCE INC International; REGIS CORP International Banking Technologies; FIRST DATA CORP International Cutlery; INTERNATIONAL CUTLERY LTD International Group; STERLING COMMERCE INC International Male; HANOVER DIRECT INC Internet Gaming Zone; MICROSOFT CORP Internet Shopping Network's Computer Superstore; CYBERIAN OUTPOST INC Interstar Hypermarkets (Europe); WAL MART STORES INC InterTAN Australia Ltd.; INTERTAN INC InterTAN Canada Ltd.; INTERTAN INC InterTAN U.K. Limited; INTERTAN INC Interworld; MULTIPLE ZONES INTERNATIONAL INC Intropics; METRO GLOBAL MEDIA INC Intuit Corp.; CHECKFREE CORP Investor; MICROSOFT CORP IPCO Optical; STERLING VISION INC IS Furniture Rental Corp.; CORT BUSINESS SERVICES Island Force; PACIFIC SUNWEAR OF CALIFORNIA INC Ito Yokado; 7-ELEVEN INC Ito-Yokado Co., Ltd.; ITO YOKADO CO LTD It's Fashion; CATO CORP Ivy Crew; GOODY'S FAMILY CLOTHING INC Iwerks CineDome; IWERKS ENTERTAINMENT INC Iwerks Quatro; IWERKS ENTERTAINMENT INC Iwerks TurboRide; IWERKS ENTERTAINMENT INC Iwerks Video 360 Theater; IWERKS ENTERTAINMENT INC IYG Holding Company; 7-ELEVEN INC J. Herbert Hall; ZALE CORPORATION J. Jill, Ltd.; J JILL GROUP INC (THE) J. Riggings; EDISON BROTHERS STORES INC

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 J.S. Overland Delivery, Inc.; VALUE CITY DEPARTMENT STORES INC Jack Winters Enterprises, Inc.; SMART CHOICE AUTOMOTIVE GROUP Jacobson Credit Corp.; JACOBSON STORES INC Jacobson Stores Inc.; JACOBSON STORES INC Jacobson Stores Realty Company; JACOBSON STORES INC James Burn International; STANDEX INTERNATIONAL Jan Bell; JAN BELL MARKETING INC Jarman; GENESCO INC JB Pawn, Inc.; FIRST CASH INC JCP Realty, Inc.; J C PENNEY COMPANY INC JCP Receivables, Inc.; J C PENNEY COMPANY INC JCPenney Consumer Banking Services; J C PENNEY CO JCPenney Funding Corporatoin; J C PENNEY COMPANY JCPenney Insurance Group, Inc.; J C PENNEY COMPANY Jean Country; DELIA'S INC Jeannie's Kids Club; KIDS STUFF INC Jennifer Convertibles; JENNIFER CONVERTIBLES INC Jennifer Leather; JENNIFER CONVERTIBLES INC Jennifer Living Room; JENNIFER CONVERTIBLES INC Jennifer Sofabed; JENNIFER CONVERTIBLES INC JenniferHouse; JENNIFER CONVERTIBLES INC Jewel Food Stores, Inc.; AMERICAN STORES COMPANY Jewel Osco Southwest, Inc.; AMERICAN STORES CO Jewelry Box; WHITEHALL JEWELERS INC Jewelry Depot; JAN BELL MARKETING INC Jewelry Depot Outlets; JAN BELL MARKETING INC Jewelryland Outlet; EZCORP INC Jo-Ann Etc.; JO ANN STORES INC Jo-Ann Fabrics and Crafts; JO ANN STORES INC Jo-Ann Stores; JO ANN STORES INC Joe Muggs; BOOKS A MILLION INC John Deere; FLORSHEIM GROUP INC Johns Automotive Group; GROUP 1 AUTOMOTIVE INC Johnston & Murphy; GENESCO INC Jordan Industries; WELCOME HOME INC Jos. Bank of Fishkill, Inc.; JOS A BANK CLOTHIERS INC Jos. Bank of Ft. Wayne, Inc.; JOS A BANK CLOTHIERS INC Joseph & Feiss; MEN'S WEARHOUSE INC (THE) Joseph Abboud; FLORSHEIM GROUP INC Journeys; GENESCO INC JOY; DEB SHOPS INC Joy Full; MARY KAY COSMETICS INC. Joyce's, Inc.; NASH FINCH COMPANY JRJ Investments; CROSS CONTINENT AUTO Jubilee Foods; FLEMING COMPANIES INC Junior Achievement; AMWAY CORPORATION JUSCO Co., Ltd./AEON Group; TALBOTS INC (THE) JUSCO, Inc.; TALBOTS INC (THE) Just For Feet; JUST FOR FEET INC JW/Jeans West; EDISON BROTHERS STORES INC JWC Beverage Corp.; BJ'S WHOLESALE CLUB INC K & B, Inc.; RITE AID CORPORATION K&G Associates of New Jersey, Inc.; K&G MEN'S CENTER K&G Men's Center; K&G MEN'S CENTER INC K&G Men's Center; MEN'S WEARHOUSE INC (THE) K&G MenSmart; K&G MEN'S CENTER INC K&G of Indiana, Inc.; K&G MEN'S CENTER INC Kash N Karry; FOOD LION INC Kaufmann's; MAY DEPARTMENT STORES COMPANY Kay-Bee Toy Stores; CONSOLIDATED STORES CORP KBGE Television; VALUEVISION INTERNATIONAL INC KCNS; SHOP AT HOME INC Ken Marks Ford; SONIC AUTOMOTIVE INC

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 Kent; BARBEQUES GALORE LIMITED Kentucky Fried Chicken Franchise; MARCUS CORP Keystone Centers Inc.; RITE AID CORPORATION Kidables; BEAUTICONTROL COSMETICS INC Kids; LANDS END INC Kids 'R' Us; TOYS R US INC Kids Stuff, Inc.; KIDS STUFF INC Kids-A-Million; BOOKS A MILLION INC KidsWorld; TOYS R US INC King Size; BRYLANE INC King Soopers; KROGER CO (THE) Kings Alley Jeweler; ELEGANT ILLUSIONS INC King's Supermarkets; WEIS MARKETS INC Kinney shoes; VENATOR GROUP INC Kitchen & Home; HANOVER DIRECT INC Kmart; KMART CORPORATION Kmart Canada Limited; KMART CORPORATION Knox; PAYLESS CASHWAYS INC Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co.; UNITED ARTISTS THEATRE CIRCUIT INC Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co.; REGAL CINEMAS INC Kohl's; KOHL'S CORP Kohl's; GREAT ATLANTIC & PACIFIC TEA COMPANY Kragen Auto Parts; CSK AUTO INC Kroger Company (The); FRED MEYER INC Kwik-Pantry; FFP PARTNERS LP L.E. Muran; OFFICE DEPOT INC Lamonts; LAMONTS APPAREL INC Land's End; LANDS END INC Lane Bryant; BRYLANE INC Lane Bryant; LIMITED INC (THE) Laneco; SUPERVALU INC Lantec; ELCOM INTERNATIONAL INC Laredo; GENESCO INC Last Chance Clearance Stores; NORDSTROM INC Lazarus; FEDERATED DEPARTMENT STORES INC Lazer Wizard; FFP PARTNERS LP Lechters; LECHTERS INC Lee Optical; NEW WEST EYEWORKS INC Lerner; BRYLANE INC Lerner New York; LIMITED INC (THE) Leslie's Poolmart; LESLIE'S POOLMART Leslie's Swimming Pool Supplies; LESLIE'S POOLMART Let's Talk Cellular & Wireless; LET'S TALK CELL & WIRE Levi's Outlet by Designs; DESIGNS INC Levi's Outlets; DESIGNS INC Lew Magram; DIPLOMAT DIRECT MARKETING Liason Agency; GETTY IMAGES INC Liberty Finance Company; SMART CHOICE AUTOMOTIVE Licensed Discount Division; J BAKER INC Lil’ Champ Food Stores; PANTRY INC (THE) Lillian Vernon Gardening; LILLIAN VERNON CORP Lillian Vernon Kitchen; LILLIAN VERNON CORP Lillian Vernon's Christmas Memories; LILLIAN VERNON Lillian Vernon's Favorites; LILLIAN VERNON CORP Lillian Vernon's Neat Ideas; LILLIAN VERNON CORP Lillian Vernon's Personalized Gift; LILLIAN VERNON CORP Lillian Vernon's Private Sale; LILLIAN VERNON CORP Lilly's Kids; LILLIAN VERNON CORPORATION Limbo Lounge; WET SEAL INC (THE) Lincoln Marketing, Inc.; TOTAL SYSTEM SERVICES INC Linda Anderson; CONCEPTS DIRECT INC Linda Anderson's Collectibles; CONCEPTS DIRECT INC Linens 'n Things; LINENS N THINGS INC Linens Plus; THREE D DEPARTMENTS INC

587 Linens Plus + More; THREE D DEPARTMENTS INC Linz; ZALE CORPORATION Liquidation World, Inc.; LIQUIDATION WORLD INC Lithia Motors; LITHIA MOTORS INC Little Big Dogs; BIG DOG HOLDINGS INC Little Net; MULTIPLE ZONES INTERNATIONAL INC Little Switzerland; LITTLE SWITZERLAND INC LiveBid.com; AMAZON.COM INC LM500 Minuet Scan Engine; PSC INC LoBill; MARSH SUPERMARKETS INC Loehmann's; LOEHMANN'S INC Loehmann's, Inc.; LOEHMANN'S INC Loews Theatres; LOEWS CINEPLEX ENTERTAINMENT Logan's Roadhouse; CBRL GROUP INC LOGIX Solutions, Inc.; ATEC GROUP INC Lone Star Ford; SONIC AUTOMOTIVE INC Longs Drug Stores; LONGS DRUG STORES CORP Lord & Taylor; MAY DEPARTMENT STORES COMPANY Loriel Custom Audio Video Corporation; HARVEY ELECTRONICS INC Los Cuernos, Inc.; RUSH ENTERPRISES INC LOT$ OFF; LOT$OFF CORPORATION Lotus Notes; IBM LTE Elite; COMPAQ COMPUTER CORP Luby Chevrolet; GROUP 1 AUTOMOTIVE INC Lucky Stores Northern California Division; AMERICAN STORES COMPANY Lucky Stores Southern California Division; AMERICAN STORES COMPANY Lumberjack; PAYLESS CASHWAYS INC Lundstrom Jewelers; WHITEHALL JEWELERS INC Luxury Linens; BURLINGTON COAT FACTORY M. Steven Cosmetic Company, Inc.; COSMETIC CENTER MAC Club; SUPERVALU INC Mac Frugal's Bargains/Closeouts; CONSOLIDATED STORES MacConnection; PC CONNECTION INC MacGregor; SPORT SUPPLY GROUP INC MacMall; CREATIVE COMPUTERS INC MacSaver; HEILIG MEYERS COMPANY MacSaver Design of a Scotsman; HEILIG MEYERS CO MacWAREHOUSE; MICRO WAREHOUSE INC Macy's; FEDERATED DEPARTMENT STORES INC Magellan SL Slimline Scanner Series; PSC INC Magic Johnston Theatres; LOEWS CINEPLEX ENTERTAINMENT CORP Magma; METRO GLOBAL MEDIA INC Magnifique Parfumes & Cosmetics; PERFUMANIA INC Mail Boxes Etc.; U S OFFICE PRODUCTS CO Mailtek, Inc.; TOTAL SYSTEM SERVICES INC Main Street Stores; SAKS HOLDINGS INC Manchester Tank Corporation; BLUE RHINO CORP Manhattan Diamond Outlet; JAN BELL MARKETING INC ManMade; BEAUTICONTROL COSMETICS INC Manufactured Housing Division; GREEN TREE FINANCIAL Marc Plaza Hotel; MARCUS CORPORATION (THE) Marc's Cafe; MARCUS CORPORATION (THE) Marcus Theatres Corporation; MARCUS CORPORATION Marex Corporation; PETROLEUM HEAT & POWER CO MarineMax; MARINEMAX INC MarineMax Motor Yachts, Inc.; MARINEMAX INC Market Knowledge, Inc.; EQUIFAX INC Marketing Projects, Inc.; FLORAFAX INTERNATIONAL Marketplace; WINN DIXIE STORES INC Marks Bros. Jewelers; WHITEHALL JEWELERS INC Marsh Supermarkets; MARSH SUPERMARKETS INC

588 Marshall Fields; DAYTON HUDSON CORPORATION Marshalls; TJX COMPANIES INC Mary Engelbreit; ENESCO GROUP INC MasterCuts Family Haircutters; REGIS CORP MatchMaker collaborative filtering; AMAZON.COM INC Maternity Works; MOTHERS WORK INC Mattress Discounters Corporation; HEILIG MEYERS CO Max Food and Drug; ALBERTSONS INC Maxi Papier; STAPLES INC Maxi Saver Cinemas; CARMIKE CINEMAS INC Maximillian; EVANS INC Maxpro; SPORT SUPPLY GROUP INC Maxwell Automotive Group; GROUP 1 AUTOMOTIVE INC Maxwhale Corp.; PETROLEUM HEAT & POWER CO MAXXUS, Inc.; STERLING COMMERCE INC Mayor's Jewelers, Inc.; JAN BELL MARKETING INC Mazel Stores, Inc.; MAZEL STORES INC Mc Rae's; PROFFITTS, INC. McLane Company; WAL MART STORES INC McWhorter's; U S OFFICE PRODUCTS CO MedCash Health System, L.P.; SPS TRANSACTION SERVICES INC Media Arts Group; MEDIA ARTS GROUP INC Media Play; MUSICLAND STORES CORP Medifast; HEALTHRITE INC Medior, Inc.; AMERICA ONLINE INC Med-Link Technologies, Inc.; SPS TRANSACTION SERVICES INC Mega Unimarc; SUPERMERCADOS UNIMARC Meier & Frank; MAY DEPARTMENT STORES COMPANY Melart Jewelers; REEDS JEWELERS INC Meldisco; FOOTSTAR INC Melville Corporation; FOOTSTAR INC Men's Wearhouse. Inc.; K&G MEN'S CENTER INC Merchant of Vino; WHOLE FOODS MARKET INC Mervyn's; DAYTON HUDSON CORPORATION Metris Companies, Inc.; FINGERHUT COMPANIES INC Metro, Inc.; METRO GLOBAL MEDIA INC METRO/BASICS Retail Division; RICHFOOD HOLDINGS MetroAsia Resources, Inc.; METROLOGIC INSTRUMENTS Metrologic Instruments GmbH; METROLOGIC INSTRUMENTS INC Mi Casa; SUPERMERCADOS UNIMARC Michaels; MICHAELS STORES INC Mickey & Co.; ENESCO GROUP INC Micro Computer Stores, Inc.; ATEC GROUP INC Micro SuppliesWAREHOUSE; MICRO WAREHOUSE INC MicroAge Channel Services; MICROAGE INC MicroAge Computer Centers, Inc.; MICROAGE INC MicroAge Data Services; MICROAGE INC MicroAge Infosystems Services, Inc.; MICROAGE INC MicroAge Logistics Services; MICROAGE INC MicroAge Network; MICROAGE INC MicroAge Solutions, Inc.; MICROAGE INC MicroAge Technologies; MICROAGE INC MICRODERM; BEAUTICONTROL COSMETICS INC Microsoft Network; MICROSOFT CORP MicroWAREHOUSE; MICRO WAREHOUSE INC Mid Iowa Salvage Pool, Inc.; COPART INC Midcontinent Theatre, Inc.; CARMIKE CINEMAS INC Mid-States PLC; MID STATES PLC Midwest Vision, Inc.; VISTA EYECARE INC Milepost Four; COLDWATER CREEK INC Miller Plant Farms; CALLOWAY'S NURSERY INC Millinnia; AVON PRODUCTS INC

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 Mills Jewelers; REEDS JEWELERS INC Mimi Maternity; MOTHERS WORK INC Minnesota Fabrics; HANCOCK FABRICS INC Miraglia, Inc.; FIRST CASH INC Miramax; WALT DISNEY COMPANY (THE) Mission Jewelers; SAMUELS JEWELERS INC Montana Naturals; HEALTHRITE INC Montgomery Ward Direct; VALUEVISION INTERNATIONAL INC Montgomery Ward Vision Center; COLE NATIONAL CORP Moore's Retail Group-Canada; MEN'S WEARHOUSE INC Moorestown Finance, Inc.; A C MOORE ARTS & CRAFTS Moran Foods, Inc./Save-A-Lot Ltd.; SUPERVALU INC Morinda; NATURE'S SUNSHINE PRODUCTS INC Mormax Beverage Corp.; BJ'S WHOLESALE CLUB INC Motherhood Maternity; MOTHERS WORK INC Movies Plus; TRANS WORLD ENTERTAINMENT CORP Movies, Inc.; VIDEO UPDATE INC Mr. 2nd's Bargain Outlet; GROSSMAN'S INC Mr. Payroll; CASH AMERICA INTERNATIONAL INC Mr. Z's Food Mart; WEIS MARKETS INC Mrs. B; BRADLEES INC Mrs. Dash; ALBERTO-CULVER COMPANY Mrs. Gooch's Natural Food Markets, Inc.; WHOLE FOODS MARKET INC MSN.COM; MICROSOFT CORP MSNBC; MICROSOFT CORP MTV Networks; VIACOM INC Multiaharro stores; SUPERMERCADOS UNIMARC Mult-O; STANDEX INTERNATIONAL CORP Music Boulevard; N2K INC Music For You; NATIONAL RECORD MART INC Music Oasis; NATIONAL RECORD MART INC Music Trader; CD WAREHOUSE INC Music World; TRANS WORLD ENTERTAINMENT CORP Musicland; MUSICLAND STORES CORP N2K; CDNOW INC N2K Encoded Music; N2K INC N2K, Inc.; N2K INC NAACO Industries, Inc.; NACCO INDUSTRIES INC NAACO Materials Handling Group; NACCO INDUSTRIES Natick Security Corp.; BJ'S WHOLESALE CLUB INC National Amusements, Inc.; VIACOM INC National Car Rental System, Inc.; AUTONATION INC National Cinema Network, Inc.; AMC ENTERTAINMENT National Credit Card Reserve Corporation; ELECTRONIC CLEARING HOUSE INC National Home Centers; NATIONAL HOME CENTERS INC National Propane Partners; NATIONAL PROPANE PARTNERS National Propane SGP; NATIONAL PROPANE PARTNERS National Propane, L.P.; NATIONAL PROPANE PARTNERS National Record Mart; NATIONAL RECORD MART INC National Sales & Service, Inc.; NATIONAL PROPANE PARTNERS National Tailoring Services, Inc.; JOS A BANK CLOTHIERS Natori; AVON PRODUCTS INC Natural Wonders, Inc.; NATURAL WONDERS INC Nature Food Centres; GENERAL NUTRITION COMPANIES Nautilus Nutritionals; HEALTHRITE INC NaviSoft, Inc.; AMERICA ONLINE INC Navy label; ANNTAYLOR STORES CORP Nefinity PC; IBM Neighborhood Market; WAL MART STORES INC Neiman Marcus; NEIMAN MARCUS GROUP INC (THE)

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 Netcigar.com; SYNERGY BRANDS INC NetCo Partners; BIG ENTERTAINMENT INC Netscape; AMERICA ONLINE INC Network EFT, Inc.; CONCORD EFS INC Nevada Optical; STERLING VISION INC New West Eyeworks, Inc.; VISTA EYECARE INC New York Fabrics; JO ANN STORES INC New York Jewelry Outlet; FINLAY ENTERPRISES INC Newport; CUMBERLAND FARMS INC Newport News, Inc.; SPIEGEL INC Next; WET SEAL INC (THE) Nickelodeon; VIACOM INC Nicole Summers; J JILL GROUP INC (THE) Nitro; SPORT SUPPLY GROUP INC NM Direct; NEIMAN MARCUS GROUP INC (THE) Noodle Kidoodle; NOODLE KIDOODLE INC Nordstrom; NORDSTROM INC Nordstrom National Credit Bank; NORDSTROM INC Nordstrom Product Groups; NORDSTROM INC Nordstrom Rack; NORDSTROM INC Norseman; BARBEQUES GALORE LIMITED North American Office Products Group; U S OFFICE PRODUCTS CO Northcountry; COLDWATER CREEK INC Northern Reflections; VENATOR GROUP INC Northwest Outfitters; LAMONTS APPAREL INC Nova Shop; E4L INC NRM Music; NATIONAL RECORD MART INC NS-Series; GATEWAY INC Numico NV; GENERAL NUTRITION COMPANIES INC Nurseryland Garden Centers; SUNBELT NURSERY GROUP NUTRILITE; AMWAY CORPORATION Nu-Way; FFP PARTNERS LP Oaken Keg Spirit Shops; CARR-GOTTSTEIN FOODS CO. Oaktree; EDISON BROTHERS STORES INC Oasis Fine Foods; WILD OATS MARKETS INC Ocennet Fuel Oil Corp.; PETROLEUM HEAT & POWER CO Octicon; HEARX LTD Odd Job; MAZEL STORES INC Odd Lots; CONSOLIDATED STORES CORP Odd's-N-End's, Inc.; 99 CENTS ONLY STORES Office Depot; OFFICE DEPOT INC OfficeMax On-line; OFFICEMAX INC Old Navy Clothing Co.; GAP INC Old School Clothing; HAROLD'S STORES INC Omnispark; O'REILLY AUTOMOTIVE INC On Cue; MUSICLAND STORES CORP One Price Clothing Store; ONE PRICE CLOTHING STORES One Price...One Dollar; DOLLAR TREE STORES INC O'Neal's Equipment Sales, Inc.; COPART INC One-Stop Entertainment; NATIONAL RECORD MART INC Online Interactive, Inc.; MICRO WAREHOUSE INC Only $1.00; DOLLAR TREE STORES INC Only Deals; 99 CENTS ONLY STORES Onsale.com; ONSALE INC Orchard Supply Hardware; SEARS ROEBUCK & CO O'Reilly Auto Parts; O'REILLY AUTOMOTIVE INC O'Reilly Automotive; O'REILLY AUTOMOTIVE INC Original Designer Outlet; LOEHMANN'S INC Original Levi's Stores; DESIGNS INC Osco Drug; AMERICAN STORES COMPANY Oshman's; OSHMAN'S SPORTING GOODS INC Oshman's Sporting Goods Stores- Japan; ITO YOKADO CO Oshman's SuperSports USA; OSHMAN'S SPORTING GOODS INC

589 Outpost.com; CYBERIAN OUTPOST INC Overland Trading Company; TRACK N TRAIL Ozark Automotive Distributors, Inc.; O'REILLY AUTOMOTIVE INC P&C Foods; PENN TRAFFIC COMPANY (THE) Paaco Automotive Group, Inc.; CROWN GROUP INC Pacific Sunwear; PACIFIC SUNWEAR OF CALIFORNIA Paint Stores Segment; SHERWIN WILLIAMS COMPANY Pamida, Inc.; PAMIDA HOLDINGS CORPORATION Paper DesignWAREHOUSE; MICRO WAREHOUSE INC Paper Warehouse, Inc.; PAPER WAREHOUSE Parade of Shoes; PAYLESS SHOESOURCE INC Parade of Shoes; J BAKER INC Paramount Pictures/Paramount Stations Group; VIACOM INC Parisian; PROFFITTS, INC. Parts America; SEARS ROEBUCK & CO Party Warehouse; PAPER WAREHOUSE Partymania; FACTORY CARD OUTLET CORPORATION Paul Harris; PAUL HARRIS STORES INC Paul Harris Design; PAUL HARRIS STORES INC Paul Harris Fashion Card; PAUL HARRIS STORES INC Paula Young; SPECIALITY CATALOG CORP Paula's Hatbox; SPECIALITY CATALOG CORP PAWNLINK; PAWNMART INC PawnMart, Inc.; PAWNMART INC Pay Systems of America; CONCORD EFS INC Payless Cashways; PAYLESS CASHWAYS INC Payless ShoeSource; PAYLESS SHOESOURCE INC PC Connection; PC CONNECTION INC PC Mall; CREATIVE COMPUTERS INC PCs Compleat, Inc.; COMP USA INC Pearle, Inc.; COLE NATIONAL CORPORATION Penn Management; VALUE CITY DEPARTMENT STORES Pep Boys; PEP BOYS-MANNY MOE & JACK (THE) Pep Boys Express; PEP BOYS-MANNY MOE & JACK Perfect Bake; LECHTERS INC Perfectly Safe; KIDS STUFF INC Perfectly Safe Guarantee; KIDS STUFF INC Perfectly Safe, The Catalog For Parents Who Care; KIDS STUFF INC Perfumania, Inc.; PERFUMANIA INC Perimeter Ford; GROUP 1 AUTOMOTIVE INC Perkins Family Restaurants; TRAVEL PORTS OF AMERICA Perma-Gro; SUNBELT NURSERY GROUP INC Perry Drug Stores, Inc.; RITE AID CORPORATION PERSONAL SHOPPERS; AMWAY CORPORATION Personal Touch; ARTISTIC GREETINGS INCORPORATED Petro, Inc.; PETROLEUM HEAT & POWER CO Petroleum Marketing; EVANS SYSTEMS INC Pets.com; AMAZON.COM INC Petstuff, Inc.; PETSMART INC Pfister Hotel; MARCUS CORPORATION (THE) PH Sport; PAUL HARRIS STORES INC Pharm; SEAWAY FOOD TOWN INC PharmAssure; GENERAL NUTRITION COMPANIES INC Pharmhouse; PHARMHOUSE CORP Pharmhouse; PHAR-MOR, INC. Phar-Mor; PHAR-MOR, INC. Phar-Mor; PHARMHOUSE CORP Phar-Mor; SHOPKO STORES INC Phoenix; EDISON BROTHERS STORES INC PhotoDisc; GETTY IMAGES INC Pier 1 Imports; PIER 1 IMPORTS INC Pier 1 Imports Preferred Card; PIER 1 IMPORTS INC Piercing Pagoda; PIERCING PAGODA INC

590 Piggly Wiggly; SCHULTZ SAV O STORES INC Piggly Wiggly; BRUNO'S INC Piggly Wiggly Preferred Club Card; SCHULTZ SAV O STORES INC Pinault-Printemps-Redoute; BRYLANE INC Planet Movies; AMC ENTERTAINMENT INC Planet Music, Inc.; BORDERS GROUP INC Planetall.com; AMAZON.COM INC Play Co. Toys & Entertainment Corp.; PLAY CO TOYS & ENTERTAINMENT CORP Playworld; NOODLE KIDOODLE INC Plitt Theatres, Inc.; CARMIKE CINEMAS INC Plumb Gold; PIERCING PAGODA INC PNS Stores, Inc.; CONSOLIDATED STORES CORP Port Stockton Food Distributors, Inc.; SMART & FINAL INC Port Supply; WEST MARINE INC Post Consumer; REAL GOODS TRADING CORPORATION Post Tool; TREND LINES INC Pottery Barn; WILLIAMS SONOMA INC Power Test; GETTY PETROLEUM MARKETING PR TV; E4L INC Pratt & Lambert; SHERWIN WILLIAMS COMPANY (THE) Precious Moments; ENESCO GROUP INC Précis; EDISON BROTHERS STORES INC Precision IBC, Inc.; CROWN GROUP INC Preferred Buyers Club; DAMARK INTERNATIONAL INC Premier Auto Finance; UNITED AUTO GROUP INC Premium Auto Acceptance Corporation; CROWN GROUP INC Prentice Hall; VIACOM INC Presario; COMPAQ COMPUTER CORP Price Club; COSTCO COMPANIES INC Price Enterprises, Inc.; COSTCO COMPANIES INC Price Quest; PRICESMART INC PriceCostco; PRICESMART INC Pro Base; SPORT SUPPLY GROUP INC Product Merchandising, Inc.; COLLEGIATE PACIFIC INC Proffitt's; PROFFITTS, INC. ProLinea; COMPAQ COMPUTER CORP Propane Continental, Inc.; CORNERSTONE PROPANE PARTNERS LP Prophecy Company; AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS Prophecy Limited Partnership; AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS INC Prophecy Ltd. Partner Company; AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS INC Prophet Group Limited; ELCOM INTERNATIONAL INC Prospector; MICROTOUCH SYSTEMS INC Proteam.com, Inc.; PROTEAM.COM INC Proteus Satellite TV Network; UNITED ARTISTS THEATRE CIRCUIT INC ProVantage Health Services; SHOPKO STORES INC ProVantage Pharmacy Benefit Management; SHOPKO STORES INC ProVantage Prescription Benefit Management; SHOPKO STORES INC ProVantage Vision Benefit Management; SHOPKO STORES ProVantage, Inc.; SHOPKO STORES INC PS Plus Sizes, Plus Savings; CATHERINES STORES CORP PSC Tunnel Systems; PSC INC Public Fuel Services; PETROLEUM HEAT & POWER Public Unitholders; NATIONAL PROPANE PARTNERS Publix; PUBLIX SUPER MARKETS INC Pueblo; PUEBLO XTRA INTERNATIONAL, INC. Pure Energy; HEALTHRITE INC Qick Fixin' Ideas; ALBERTSONS INC

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 QS; PANTRY INC (THE) Quality Food Centers, Inc.; FRED MEYER INC Quality Markets; PENN TRAFFIC COMPANY (THE) Quality Markets; PENN TRAFFIC COMPANY (THE) Quantum International Limited; E4L INC Quantum Television; E4L INC Quattro; MARY KAY COSMETICS INC. Quick Check PC600 Bar Code Verifier; PSC INC Quick Stop; PANTRY INC (THE) QuickScan 6000 Handheld Scanner; PSC INC Quik Mart; 7-ELEVEN INC Rack-Mountable ProLiant; COMPAQ COMPUTER CORP Radio Shack; TANDY CORP Radio Spirits; AUDIO BOOK CLUB INC Radio Yesteryear; AUDIO BOOK CLUB INC RadioShack; INTERTAN INC Rag Shops; RAG SHOPS INC Rainbow Foods; FLEMING COMPANIES INC Rare Brew; PACIFIC SUNWEAR OF CALIFORNIA INC Rare Gold; AVON PRODUCTS INC RCM Systems, Inc.; CHECKFREE CORP Read & Save Rebate; BOOKS A MILLION INC Ready Finance; SMART CHOICE AUTOMOTIVE GROUP Real Fans Sport Network; AMERICA ONLINE INC Real Goods; REAL GOODS TRADING CORPORATION Real Goods News; REAL GOODS TRADING CORP Real Stuff; REAL GOODS TRADING CORPORATION Record Town, Inc.; TRANS WORLD ENTERTAINMENT Reeds Financial Services, Inc.; REEDS JEWELERS INC Reeds Jewelers; REEDS JEWELERS INC Regency Jewelry; FRIEDMAN'S INC REGENERATION; BEAUTICONTROL COSMETICS INC Regent Gallery; LECHTERS INC Regis Hairstylists; REGIS CORP REJA, Inc.; BESTWAY INC Reliant; TREND LINES INC Renewable Energy Department; REAL GOODS TRADING Rent Mart Rent-to-Own, Inc.; AARON RENTS INC Rent-A-Tire; CASH AMERICA INTERNATIONAL INC Repp Ltd.; EDISON BROTHERS STORES INC Re-Print; SCHOOL SPECIALTY INC Resort; SAKS HOLDINGS INC Resound; HEARX LTD Restoration Hardware; RESTORATION HARDWARE Retail Commerce; AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS INC Retail Royalty; AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS INC Retail Systems Group; NCR CORPORATION Revco; CVS CORPORATION Revitalizing; MARY KAY COSMETICS INC. Revlon; COSMETIC CENTER INC (THE) REX Stores; REX STORES CORPORATION Rexall Consumer Products; REXALL SUNDOWN INC Richardson Labs, Inc.; REXALL SUNDOWN INC Richfood, Inc.; RICHFOOD HOLDINGS INC Richfood/Pennsylvania; RICHFOOD HOLDINGS INC Richfood/Virgina; RICHFOOD HOLDINGS INC Rich's; FEDERATED DEPARTMENT STORES INC Risk Management Technologies; FAIR ISAAC AND CO Rite Aid Corporation; GENERAL NUTRITION COMPANIES Rite Express; RITE AID CORPORATION Riverside Group, Inc.; RIVERSIDE GROUP INC Roaman; BRYLANE INC Roberds; ROBERDS INC Roberts Express; FEDERAL EXPRESS CORP Robinson's Department Stores- Japan; ITO YOKADO CO LTD

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 Robinsons-May; MAY DEPARTMENT STORES COMPANY Rock Bottom; DUANE READE INC Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory; ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY INC Roehlen Industries; STANDEX INTERNATIONAL CORP Roman Fedo; SMART CHOICE AUTOMOTIVE GROUP Room Plus; ROOM PLUS INC Rose Auto Parts; DISCOUNT AUTO PARTS INC Ross Dress For Less; ROSS STORES INC Ross Shoes For Less; ROSS STORES INC Rotelle, Inc.; RICHFOOD HOLDINGS INC Royal BodyCare; GLOBENET INTERNATIONAL RRE Investors; FIRST DATA CORP Rush Adminstrative Services, Inc.; RUSH ENTERPRISES INC Rush Equipment Centers of Texas, Inc.; RUSH ENTERPRISES Rush Truck Centers of California, Inc.; RUSH ENTERPRISES Rush Truck Centers of Oklahoma, Inc.; RUSH ENTERPRISES Rush Truck Centers of Texas, Inc.; RUSH ENTERPRISES INC Rush Truck Leasing, Inc.; RUSH ENTERPRISES INC RWC Beverage Corp.; BJ'S WHOLESALE CLUB INC RX Uniforms; J BAKER INC Safeway; SAFEWAY INC SAH Acquistion Corporation II; SHOP AT HOME INC Sahara Nissan, Inc.; CROSS CONTINENT AUTO Saks Fifth Avenue; SAKS HOLDINGS INC Saks, Inc.; PROFFITTS, INC. Sally Beauty Supply; ALBERTO-CULVER COMPANY Sam Goody; MUSICLAND STORES CORP Sam's Clubs; WAL MART STORES INC Samuels Jewelers; SAMUELS JEWELERS INC San Francisco Music Box Co.; VENATOR GROUP INC Sandcastle; AUTHENTIC FITNESS CORP Santa Claws; PETSMART INC Santa Isabel; SANTA ISABEL Santa Isabel; AHOLD Saturday Matinee; TRANS WORLD ENTERTAINMENT Sav-A-Center; GREAT ATLANTIC & PACIFIC TEA CO Sav-Mor; KROGER CO (THE) Sav-on; AMERICAN STORES COMPANY Sax Arts & Crafts; SCHOOL SPECIALTY INC ScanGlove; METROLOGIC INSTRUMENTS INC ScanKey; METROLOGIC INSTRUMENTS INC ScanQuest; METROLOGIC INSTRUMENTS INC ScanSet; METROLOGIC INSTRUMENTS INC Scholastic Inc.; DELIA'S INC School Specialty; SCHOOL SPECIALTY INC Schubach Jewelers; SAMUELS JEWELERS INC Schuck's Auto Supply; CSK AUTO INC Scot's Lo Cost; WEIS MARKETS INC Scott's Food Stores, Inc.; SUPERVALU INC SCP Private Equity Partners, L.P.; CINEMASTAR LUXURY THEATERS INC Screeem!; DELIA'S INC Scribner's Bookstores; BARNES & NOBLE INC Sea Ray of Las Vegas, Inc.; MARINEMAX INC SEARCH; FAIR ISAAC AND COMPANY INC Sears; SEARS ROEBUCK & CO Sears; ORCHARD SUPPLY HARDWARE Sears Dealer Stores; SEARS ROEBUCK & CO Sears Hardware; SEARS ROEBUCK & CO Sears HomeLife; SEARS ROEBUCK & CO Sears Optical; COLE NATIONAL CORPORATION Seaway Food Town, Inc.; SEAWAY FOOD TOWN INC Security APL, Inc.; CHECKFREE CORP Seessel's; ALBERTSONS INC

591 Sentry Foods; FLEMING COMPANIES INC Servantis Systems Holdings, Inc.; CHECKFREE CORP Service Express; SERVICE MERCHANDISE COMPANY Service Merchandise Superstore; SERVICE MERCHANDISE Service Select; SERVICE MERCHANDISE COMPANY INC Seven-Eleven- Japan; ITO YOKADO CO LTD Seventh Street Corp.; FLANIGAN'S ENTERPRISES INC Sew Perfect; HANCOCK FABRICS INC Shades.com; SUNGLASS HUT INTERNATIONAL INC Sharper Image; SHARPER IMAGE CORPORATION Sharper Image Design Stores; SHARPER IMAGE CORP Sharper Image Home Collection; SHARPER IMAGE CORP Sharper Image Outlet Stores; SHARPER IMAGE CORP Sharper Image SPA; SHARPER IMAGE CORPORATION Shinsegae Department Store Co., Ltd.; COSTCO COMPANIES Shoe Pavillion; SHOE PAVILION INC Shoe Pavillion's Designer Shoe Warehouse; SHOE PAVILION Shonac Corporation; VALUE CITY DEPARTMENT STORES Shop 'n Save; HANNAFORD BROS CO Shop 'n Save Warehouse Foods, Inc.; SUPERVALU INC ShopKo; PHAR-MOR, INC. ShopperConnection; CYBERIAN OUTPOST INC Shopping.com; SHOPPING.COM ShopRite; VILLAGE SUPER MARKET INC ShopRite; FOODARAMA SUPERMARKETS, INC. Showtime Networks, Inc.; VIACOM INC Sidewalk; MICROSOFT CORP Silgas, Inc.; PETROLEUM HEAT & POWER CO Silkies; HOSIERY CORPORATION OF AMERICA, INC. Silver and Gold Connection; PIERCING PAGODA INC Silver Hill Pawn, Inc.; FIRST CASH INC Silvers, Inc.; OFFICE DEPOT INC Simon & Schuster; VIACOM INC Simple Solutions; LECHTERS INC Simply Computers Limited; SYSTEMAX INC Site For Sore Eyes; STERLING VISION INC Six Flags; TIME WARNER INC Sizes Unlimited; UNITED RETAIL GROUP INC Skelgas Propane, Inc.; FERRELLGAS PARTNERS L P Skin-So-Soft; AVON PRODUCTS INC Skymall.com; SKYMALL INC Sloan's; GRISTEDE'S SLOAN'S INC Smart & Final Stores Corporation; SMART & FINAL INC SmartStyle; REGIS CORP Smith's Food & Drug Centers, Inc.; FRED MEYER INC Smitty's Super Markets, Inc.; ALBERTSONS INC Smokers Express; PANTRY INC (THE) Sneaker Stadium, Inc.; JUST FOR FEET INC Snoopy, Etc., A Catalog With Character; CONCEPTS DIRECT Software Etc. Stores, Inc.; BABBAGE'S ETC Software Spectrum B.V.; SOFTWARE SPECTRUM Software Spectrum Canada, Ltd.; SOFTWARE SPECTRUM Software Spectrum Limited; SOFTWARE SPECTRUM Solar Living Center; REAL GOODS TRADING CORP Solo Serve; SOLO SERVE CORPORATION Sony Theatres; LOEWS CINEPLEX ENTERTAINMENT Sophista-Cat; PETSMART INC Sound Mill, Inc.; HARVEY ELECTRONICS INC SoundTrack; ULTIMATE ELECTRONICS INC Southeastern Public Service Company; NATIONAL PROPANE PARTNERS Southern Optical; STERLING VISION INC Southern Salvage, Inc.; COPART INC Southern Wholesale Company; FRED'S INC Southland; ITO YOKADO CO LTD

592 Southland Corporation; 7-ELEVEN INC Specific Energy; BATTERIES BATTERIES INC Speedo; AUTHENTIC FITNESS CORP Spiegel; SPIEGEL INC Spirit of the West; COLDWATER CREEK INC Split Pea Software; PEAPOD INC Sporting Dog; PETSMART INC Sports & Co.; HIBBETT SPORTING GOODS INC Sports Additions; HIBBETT SPORTING GOODS INC Sprint; PANTRY INC (THE) Sprint Store at Radio Shack; TANDY CORP SPS Payment Systems, Inc.; SPS TRANSACTION SERVICES St. Charles Gaming Company, Inc.; CROWN GROUP INC St. Ives; ALBERTO-CULVER COMPANY Standard Publishing; STANDEX INTERNATIONAL CORP Standex Commercial Products; STANDEX INTERNATIONAL Staples Business Advantage; STAPLES INC Staples Direct; STAPLES INC Staples Express; STAPLES INC Staples National Advantage; STAPLES INC Staples-The Office Superstore; STAPLES INC Star Furniture; HEILIG MEYERS COMPANY Star Gas Corporation; PETROLEUM HEAT & POWER CO Star Theatres; LOEWS CINEPLEX ENTERTAINMENT Starbucks; STARBUCKS CORP State Line Tack, Inc.; PETSMART INC Static Guard; ALBERTO-CULVER COMPANY Stein Mart; STEIN MART INC Steinbeck Jeweler; ELEGANT ILLUSIONS INC Steinbeck Lady; ELEGANT ILLUSIONS INC Step Ahead Investments, Inc.; DOLLAR TREE STORES INC Sterling Optical; STERLING VISION INC Sterling Software; STERLING COMMERCE INC Stern's; FEDERATED DEPARTMENT STORES INC Stop & Shop; AHOLD Stop 'N Save Software; ELECTRONICS BOUTIQUE HOLDINGS CORP. Strata Holdings, Inc.; SMART CHOICE AUTOMOTIVE StrategyWare; FAIR ISAAC AND COMPANY INC Structure; LIMITED INC (THE) Stuckey's; BOWLIN OUTDOOR ADVERTISING & TRAV CTRS INC Stuff.com; IMALL INC Styl-Rite Optical; US VISION INC Successories; SUCCESSORIES INC Suits & Shoes; GENESCO INC Sun & Sport; GARDEN BOTANIKA INC Sun Computer and Software, Inc.; ATEC GROUP INC Sun Mart; NASH FINCH COMPANY Suncoast Motion Picture Company; MUSICLAND STORES Sundance Cinemas; GC COMPANIES INC Sundown Vitamins; REXALL SUNDOWN INC Sunglass Hut International Division; SUNGLASS HUT INTERNATIONAL INC Sunglass Hut North America; SUNGLASS HUT INTERNATIONAL INC Sunglass World Holdings Pty Limited; SUNGLASS HUT INTERNATIONAL INC Sunrise Publications, Inc.; FUNCO INC Sunsations Sunglass Co.; SUNGLASS HUT INTERNATIONAL INC Sunscriptions; SUNGLASS HUT INTERNATIONAL INC Sunset Beach; AUTHENTIC FITNESS CORP Sunshine Grocery; WILD OATS MARKETS INC Super Crown Books Corporation; CROWN BOOKS CORP

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 Super Fresh; GREAT ATLANTIC & PACIFIC TEA CO Super Kmart; KMART CORPORATION Super Rite Corporation; RICHFOOD HOLDINGS INC Super Software; BABBAGE'S ETC Super Trak Corporation; TRAK AUTO CORPORATION Super Unimarc; SUPERMERCADOS UNIMARC SUPER-7; 7-ELEVEN INC Supercenters; WAL MART STORES INC Supercuts; REGIS CORP Superior Optical; STERLING VISION INC Superior Propane, Inc.; FERRELLGAS PARTNERS L P Supermercados Unimarc; SUPERMERCADOS UNIMARC SuperPetz; WEIS MARKETS INC SuPeRSaVer; FLEMING COMPANIES INC Super-Sol; SUPER-SOL LTD Surplus Software, Inc.; EGGHEAD.COM INC Surplus Sounds; NATIONAL RECORD MART INC Surplusauction.com; EGGHEAD.COM INC Surplusdirect.com; EGGHEAD.COM INC Susan Kay Cosmetics, Inc.; COSMETIC CENTER INC (THE) Swiss Army Depot.com; SUNGLASS HUT INTERNATIONAL INC Switch Now, Inc.; ATEC GROUP INC Synergy Inc.; CORNERSTONE PROPANE PARTNERS LP Synovus Financial Corp.; TOTAL SYSTEM SERVICES INC System.390 G4; IBM Systemax Inc.; SYSTEMAX INC Systemedia Group; NCR CORPORATION T&C Liquidators, Inc.; K&G MEN'S CENTER INC T&C Men's Center; K&G MEN'S CENTER INC T&C MenSmart; K&G MEN'S CENTER INC T.J. Maxx; TJX COMPANIES INC T.K. Maxx; TJX COMPANIES INC T.R.O. Inc.; CONSOLIDATED STORES CORP TA Intercall AB; CELLSTAR CORPORATION TAKESHAPE Nutrition Centers; HEALTHRITE INC Talbots Accessories & Shoes; TALBOTS INC (THE) Talbots Intimates; TALBOTS INC (THE) Talbots Kids; TALBOTS INC (THE) Talbots Misses; TALBOTS INC (THE) Talbots Petites; TALBOTS INC (THE) Talon Insurance Company; EAGLE FOOD CENTERS INC Tandy; INTERTAN INC Tandy Corporation; SPS TRANSACTION SERVICES INC Tandy Electronics; INTERTAN INC Tannery West; WILSONS THE LEATHER EXPERTS INC Tape World; TRANS WORLD ENTERTAINMENT CORP Target; DAYTON HUDSON CORPORATION Tauber; BATTERIES BATTERIES INC Taylor Food Mart; FFP PARTNERS LP Tazo premium teas; STARBUCKS CORP TechShopper Software Store; BEYOND.COM Tekno Books; BIG ENTERTAINMENT INC Texas Gulfwind USA, Inc.; MARINEMAX INC The $5-$10-$15-$20 Place; PAUL HARRIS STORES INC The Answer; CATHERINES STORES CORPORATION The Avenue; UNITED RETAIL GROUP INC The Avenue/Shop for Women; UNITED RETAIL GROUP The Bee-Gee Shoe Corporation; ELDER BEERMAN STORES The Bon Marche; FEDERATED DEPARTMENT STORES The Buckle; BUCKLE INC (THE) The Children's Place; CHILDREN'S PLACE (THE) The City Meat markets; WINN DIXIE STORES INC The Company Store; HANOVER DIRECT INC The Cosmetic Center; COSMETIC CENTER INC (THE)

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 The Developer's Marketplace; MULTIPLE ZONES INTERNATIONAL INC The Disney Channel; WALT DISNEY COMPANY (THE) The Disney Store; WALT DISNEY COMPANY (THE) The Edge Company Catalog; PROTEAM.COM INC The Entertainment and Real Estate Division; TRANS-LUX The Fabric Market; HANCOCK FABRICS INC The Fabric MasterCard; HANCOCK FABRICS INC The Finish Line; FINISH LINE INC (THE) The Finlay Triangle; FINLAY ENTERPRISES INC The Flower Club; FLORAFAX INTERNATIONAL INC The Franklin System; FRANKLIN COVEY CO The Gift Center at Sears; COLE NATIONAL CORP The Girl's Room; WET SEAL INC (THE) The Golf Company; SUCCESSORIES INC The Good Guys!; GOOD GUYS INC (THE) The Great Alaska Tobacco Company; CARR-GOTTSTEIN FOODS CO. The HOME COMPUTER CATALOG; MULTIPLE ZONES INTERNATIONAL INC The Icing; CLAIRE'S STORES INC The Jewelry Vault; REEDS JEWELERS INC The Joseph A. Bank Mfg. Co., Inc.; JOS A BANK CLOTHIERS INC The Kitchen Collection, Inc.; NACCO INDUSTRIES INC The Kitchen Place; LECHTERS INC The LEARNING ZONE; MULTIPLE ZONES INTERNATIONAL INC The Limited, Inc.; ABERCROMBIE & FITCH CO The MAC ZONE; MULTIPLE ZONES INTERNATIONAL The Market of Pier 1; PIER 1 IMPORTS INC The Michaels Furniture Company; RESTORATION HARDWARE The Natural Baby Catalog; KIDS STUFF INC The Natural Baby Co., Inc.; KIDS STUFF INC The North American Coal; NACCO INDUSTRIES INC The Office Place; OFFICE DEPOT INC The PC ZONE; MULTIPLE ZONES INTERNATIONAL INC The Pet Food Giant, Inc.; PETSMART INC The Pier; PIER 1 IMPORTS INC The Right Start; RIGHT START INC (THE) The Right Start Catalog; RIGHT START INC (THE) The RoomStore, Inc.; HEILIG MEYERS COMPANY The Rouse Company; ROUSE CO (THE) The Rx Place; PHARMHOUSE CORP The Salon at The Cosmetic Center; COSMETIC CENTER INC The Sharper Image Catalog; SHARPER IMAGE CORP THE SKI AUTHORITY; SPORTS AUTHORITY INC (THE) The Sports Authority & Design; SPORTS AUTHORITY INC The Sportsman's Guide; SPORTSMAN'S GUIDE INC THE The Territory Ahead; LANDS END INC THE TOTAL SYSTEM; TOTAL SYSTEM SERVICES INC The Traveler's Dress; CHICO'S FAS INC The Value Leader; FRIEDMAN'S INC The Very Thing!; J JILL GROUP INC (THE) The Vons Companies, Inc.; SAFEWAY INC Theatre Developers, Inc.; CARMIKE CINEMAS INC Things Remembered; COLE NATIONAL CORPORATION Think Pad; IBM Thomas A. Edison, Inc.; HASTINGS ENTERTAINMENT Thompson Food Basket; FLEMING COMPANIES INC Thompson Nutritional Products; REXALL SUNDOWN INC Three D Bed & Bath; THREE D DEPARTMENTS INC Three D Bed, Bath & More; THREE D DEPARTMENTS INC Thrift Drug, Inc.; J C PENNEY COMPANY INC

593 Thriftway; WINN DIXIE STORES INC ThruGlass; MICROTOUCH SYSTEMS INC Tiffany; TIFFANY & CO Tiffany & Co.; TIFFANY & CO Tiffany For Men; TIFFANY & CO Time Warner Cable; TIME WARNER INC Time, Inc.; TIME WARNER INC Tip Top; SUNBELT NURSERY GROUP INC Tire America stores; SEARS ROEBUCK & CO Titan Industries; BEBE STORES INC Tivoli; IBM Tom Thumb; KROGER CO (THE) Tony Stone Images; GETTY IMAGES INC Topkapi; CLAIRE'S STORES INC Toppleball; SPORT SUPPLY GROUP INC Tops Markets; AHOLD Tops 'N Bottoms; DEB SHOPS INC Tosco Marketing Company; TOSCO CORP Tosco Refining Company; TOSCO CORP Totally 4 Kids; BURLINGTON COAT FACTORY Touch of Class; SPECIALITY CATALOG CORP Touchstone Pictures; WALT DISNEY COMPANY (THE) Tower Records, Inc.; GOOD GUYS INC (THE) Town & Country Ford; SONIC AUTOMOTIVE INC Town & Country Toyota; SONIC AUTOMOTIVE INC Toy Co.; PLAY CO TOYS & ENTERTAINMENT CORP Toy Park; NOODLE KIDOODLE INC Toyota; CROSS CONTINENT AUTO Toys 'R' Us; TOYS R US INC Toys 'R' Us-International; TOYS R US INC Toys 'R' Us-United States; TOYS R US INC Track 'n Trail Adventure Footwear Co; TRACK N TRAIL Trade Secret; REGIS CORP Trak Corporation; TRAK AUTO CORPORATION Trak DHC Corporation; TRAK AUTO CORPORATION Trak West; CSK AUTO INC Trans-Lux; TRANS-LUX CORPORATION Trans-Lux Message Centers; TRANS-LUX CORPORATION Trans-Lux Vision Writer; TRANS-LUX CORPORATION Transportation Service Division; SHERWIN WILLIAMS CO Travel & Leisure Magazine; AMERICAN EXPRESS CO Travel Port Franchising,; TRAVEL PORTS OF AMERICA Travel Ports of America; TRAVEL PORTS OF AMERICA Travis Boating Center; TRAVIS BOAT & MOTORS INC Travis Boats; TRAVIS BOAT & MOTORS INC Travis Edition; TRAVIS BOAT & MOTORS INC Treasure Cove Marina, Inc.; MARINEMAX INC Trend-Lines; TREND LINES INC TRESemme; ALBERTO-CULVER COMPANY TRIAD; FAIR ISAAC AND COMPANY INC Triarc Companies, Inc.; NATIONAL PROPANE PARTNERS Tribune; PEAPOD INC TRS International; AMERICAN EXPRESS CO TruckPro; AUTOZONE INC TruePoint; MICROTOUCH SYSTEMS INC Trueste; TIFFANY & CO TSI Soccer catalog; DELIA'S INC TuffTouch; MICROTOUCH SYSTEMS INC Turbo; BARBEQUES GALORE LIMITED Turkey Hill; KROGER CO (THE) Turner Broadcasting System; TIME WARNER INC TWA Airlines; SKYMALL INC Tweeds; HANOVER DIRECT INC Tweeter etc.; TWEETER HOME ENTERTAINMENT U.S. Airways; SKYMALL INC

594 U.S. Office Products; U S OFFICE PRODUCTS CO U.S. Pawn; US PAWN INC U.S. Vision; US VISION INC uBID; CREATIVE COMPUTERS INC Ugly Duckling Car Sales; UGLY DUCKLING CORP Ultimate Echinacea; NATURE'S SUNSHINE PRODUCTS Ultimate Electronics; ULTIMATE ELECTRONICS INC Unicorn Whole Foods Market; WHOLE FOODS MARKET Unimarc Express; SUPERMERCADOS UNIMARC Uni-Marts; GETTY PETROLEUM MARKETING Uni-Marts of America, Inc.; UNI MARTS INC United Airlines; SKYMALL INC United Auto Care; UNITED AUTO GROUP INC United Auto Finance, Inc.; UNITED AUTO GROUP INC Universal International, Inc.; 99 CENTS ONLY STORES Universe Club; SUPER-SOL LTD Urban Broadcast Sytems, Inc.; SHOP AT HOME INC Urban Outfitters; URBAN OUTFITTERS INC U-Scan Express Self-Checkout System; PSC INC Vacation Passport; DAMARK INTERNATIONAL INC ValueVision; VALUEVISION INTERNATIONAL INC ValuMax; CARMAX GROUP Vantage Products International, Inc.; COLLEGIATE PACIFIC VC Retailers, Inc.; VALUE CITY DEPARTMENT STORES VECTOR; STERLING COMMERCE INC Venator; SPORTS AUTHORITY INC (THE) Vibes Music; NATIONAL RECORD MART INC Victoria's Secret; LIMITED INC (THE) Victoria's Secret Catalogue; INTIMATE BRANDS INC Victoria's Secret Stores; INTIMATE BRANDS INC Video Update; VIDEO UPDATE INC Video Yesteryear; AUDIO BOOK CLUB INC Viking Freight; FEDERAL EXPRESS CORP Viking Office Products; OFFICE DEPOT INC Village East; GOTTSCHALKS INC Village Pantry; MARSH SUPERMARKETS INC Virtual Valerie 2; METRO GLOBAL MEDIA INC Vista Optical; NEW WEST EYEWORKS INC Vital Processing Services, LLC; TOTAL SYSTEM SERVICES Vitamin Specialties; HEALTHRITE INC Vix; DRUG EMPORIUM INC Volunteer Leather Company; GENESCO INC Vulcan; TREND LINES INC Wakefern Food Corporation; VILLAGE SUPER MARKET Wakefern Food Corp; FOODARAMA SUPERMARKETS Waldbaum's; GREAT ATLANTIC & PACIFIC TEA CO Walden Book Company, Inc.; BORDERS GROUP INC WaldenSoftware; ELECTRONICS BOUTIQUE HOLDINGS Walgreen Advance Care, Inc.; WALGREEN CO Walgreens Healthcare Plus, Inc.; WALGREEN CO Wal-Mart Stores; WAL MART STORES INC Warner Bros.; TIME WARNER INC Watch Station; SUNGLASS HUT INTERNATIONAL INC Waves Music; NATIONAL RECORD MART INC WebTV; MICROSOFT CORP Weis Food Service; WEIS MARKETS INC Weis Markets; WEIS MARKETS INC Wellspring Grocery; WHOLE FOODS MARKET INC West Marine; WEST MARINE INC Western Auto; SEARS ROEBUCK & CO Westerville Road LP; VALUE CITY DEPARTMENT STORES Westport Ltd.; DRESS BARN INC (THE) Westport Woman; DRESS BARN INC (THE) Wet Seal; WET SEAL INC (THE)

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000 What A World!, Inc.; NATURAL WONDERS INC White Stag/Skiwear Division; AUTHENTIC FITNESS CORP Whitehall Co. Jewelers; WHITEHALL JEWELERS INC WHP Health Initiatives, Inc.; WALGREEN CO Wickes Direct; WICKES INC Wickes International; WICKES INC Wickes Lumber; WICKES INC Wickes, Inc.; RIVERSIDE GROUP INC Wild Oats Community Markets; WILD OATS MARKETS INC Wild Pair; EDISON BROTHERS STORES INC Williams-Sonoma Catalog for Cooks; WILLIAMS SONOMA Willie Rubin; CACHE INC Willis & Geiger; LANDS END INC Wilson Business Products; OFFICE DEPOT INC Wilson's; HANNAFORD BROS CO Winn-Dixie; WINN DIXIE STORES INC Winners Apparel Ltd.; TJX COMPANIES INC Winners Collection; SUCCESSORIES INC Wire-O; STANDEX INTERNATIONAL CORP Within Beauty; BEAUTICONTROL COSMETICS INC WOAC; SHOP AT HOME INC Wolfe's Nursery; SUNBELT NURSERY GROUP INC Wolohan Lumber; WOLOHAN LUMBER CO Woman's Skin Care System; BIOZHEM COSMECEUTICALS Woodfield Suites; MARCUS CORPORATION (THE) Woodworkers Warehouse; TREND LINES INC Work 'N Gear; J BAKER INC World Ford Kendall; GROUP 1 AUTOMOTIVE INC WorldService; MICROTOUCH SYSTEMS INC Worldwide Services Group; NCR CORPORATION WOW! Multimedia Superstore; GOOD GUYS INC (THE) WRAY; SHOP AT HOME INC www.digitalriver.com; DIGITAL RIVER INC www.gohastings.com; HASTINGS ENTERTAINMENT XpressCheX, Inc.; ELECTRONIC CLEARING HOUSE INC Xtra; PUEBLO XTRA INTERNATIONAL, INC. Yale; NACCO INDUSTRIES INC Yelmo Cineplex de Espana; LOEWS CINEPLEX ENTERTAINMENT CORP Yorkship Business Supply; OFFICE DEPOT INC Younkers; PROFFITTS, INC. YWC Beverage Corp.; BJ'S WHOLESALE CLUB INC Zales Division; ZALE CORPORATION Zayre Central Corp.; AMES DEPARTMENT STORES INC Zayre New England Corp.; AMES DEPARTMENT STORES ZDTMAC; CD WAREHOUSE INC Zions; ZIONS COOPERATIVE MERCANTILE

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

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APPENDIX Selected Graphs and Tables

Monthly Retail Trade Survey – Overview

p.596

Retail Trade Survey – 1999 Retail Sales

p.599

Retail Trade Survey – 1998 Retail Sales

p.601

Retail Trade Survey – 1997 Retail Sales

p.603

Monthly Retail Trade Survey – Explanatory Materials

p.605

Monthly Retail Trade Survey – Reliability of Monthly Estimates

p.613

Estimated Coefficients of Variation and Standard Error for Retail Sales by Kinds of Business

p.615

Estimated Coefficients of Variation in Percent for Retail Inventories by Kinds of Business

p.617

Monthly Retail Trade Survey – Kind-of-Business Classifications

p.618

U.S. Department of Commerce News – Advance Monthly Retail Sales (Sept. 2000)

p.626

Estimated Advance Monthly Retail Sales (Sept. 2000)

p.627

596

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

MONTHLY RETAIL TRADE SURVEY Overview Purpose To provide current estimates of sales at retail stores and inventories held by retail stores. The United States Code, Title 13, authorizes this survey and provides for voluntary responses. Coverage Companies with one or more establishments that sell merchandise and related services to final consumers (SIC Division G). In 1998, consumers spent an estimated $2.7 trillion in retail stores and monthly retail inventories averaged about $335 billion. Content Retail firms provide data on dollar value of retail sales and sales for selected establishments; some firms also provide data on value of end-of-month inventories. Frequency Monthly since 1951; A new sample is chosen every 5 years; most recently for 1997. Methods A mail-out/mail-back survey of about 13,300 retail businesses with paid employees selected for sales, including about 4,000 businesses also selected for inventories; supplemented by estimates for nonemployers, new employers, and missed employers obtained from benchmarking to the Annual Retail Trade Survey. The sample of retail firms is drawn from the Standard Statistical Establishment List, which contains all Employer Identification Numbers (EINs) and listed establishment locations. Sales and inventories data are collected using one combined survey form. Firms selected for the retail sales survey are first stratified by major kind of business and estimated sales. All firms with sales above applicable size cutoffs are selected into the survey and report for all their retail industry EINs. In a second stage, unselected EINs are stratified by major kind of business and sales, and randomly selected from each strata. Approximately 3,000 of the 13,300 are selected with certainty. Some firms are also selected for inventories by stratifying most firms in the larger sales sample by kind of business and sales sizes. Approximately 800 of the 4,000 are selected with certainty. The sample is updated quarterly to reflect employer business "births" and "deaths"; adding new employer businesses identified in the business and professional classification survey and dropping firms and EINs when it is determined they are no longer active. There is about a 9-month delay before new firms can be represented in the sample. Products Monthly Retail Trade, Sales and Inventories reports are released 6 weeks after the close of the reference month. They contain preliminary figures for the current month and final figures for the prior 12 months. Statistics include retail sales, inventories, and ratios of inventories-to-sales. Data are both seasonally adjusted and unadjusted.

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Combined Annual and Revised Monthly Retail Trade reports are released annually each spring. They include revised and benchmarked monthly estimates of sales and inventories; monthly data for the most recent 10 years; and detailed annual estimates and ratios for the U.S. by kind of business. Uses These data are widely used throughout government, academic, and business communities. The Bureau of Economic Analysis uses the estimates to calculate Gross Domestic Product. The Bureau of Labor Statistics uses the estimates to develop consumer price indexes and productivity measurements. The Council of Economic Advisers uses the estimates to analyze current economic activity. The Federal Reserve Board uses the estimates to assess recent trends in consumer purchases. The media use the estimates to report news of recent consumer activity. Financial and investment companies use the estimates to measure recent economic trends. Special Features

Contributes to two designated principal economic indicators. This survey is an integral component of the Advance Monthly Retail Sales Survey and the Manufacturing and Trade Inventories and Sales Report. Source: Monthly Retail Surveys Branch, U.S. Census Bureau | Last Revised: May 18, 2000

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Retail Trade Survey: 1999 Retail Sales (in millions of dollars)

SIC Code

Kind of Business NOT ADJUSTED

52 521,3,5 521,3 525 55 EX 554 551,2,5,6,7,9 551,2 551 553 57 571 5712 5713 5722,31,34 5722 5731 5734 5941 5942 5944 53 531 531 531 pt. 531 pt. 531 pt. 533 539 54 541 542 546 554 56 561 562,3

RETAIL SALES, TOTAL TOTAL, EXCL. AUTOMOTIVE GROUP DURABLE GOODS, TOTAL BUILDING MATERIALS GROUP STORES BUILDING MATERIALS,SUPPLY STORES, HARDWARE BUILDING MATERIALS, SUPPLY STORES HARDWARE STORES AUTOMOTIVE GROUP MOTOR VEHICLE & MISCELLANEOUS AUTO DEALERS MOTOR VEHICLE DEALERS MOTOR VEHICLE DEALERS - NEW AND USED AUTO & HOME SUPPLY STORES FURNITURE GROUP STORES FURNITURE & HOME FURNISHINGS STORES FURNITURE STORES FLOOR COVERING STORES HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCE, RADIO, TV & COMPUTER STORES HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCE STORES RADIO, TELEVISION AND ELECTRONIC STORES COMPUTER AND COMPUTER SOFTWARE STORES SPORTING GOODS STORES AND BICYCLE SHOPS BOOK STORES JEWELRY STORES NONDURABLE GOODS, TOTAL GENERAL MERCHANDISE GROUP STORES DEPT. STORES (EXCL. LEASED DEPTS.) DEPT. STORES (INCL. LEASED DEPTS.) (1) CONVENTIONAL DEPT. STORES (INCL. LEASED DEPTS.) (1) DISCOUNT DEPT. STORES (INCL. LEASED DEPTS.) (1) NATIONAL CHAIN DEPT. STORES (INCL. LEASED DEPTS.) (1) VARIETY STORES MISCELLANEOUS GENERAL MERCHANDISE STORES FOOD GROUP STORES GROCERY STORES MEAT, FISH (SEAFOOD) MARKETS RETAIL BAKERIES GASOLINE SERVICE STATIONS APPAREL & ACCESSORY STORES MEN'S & BOYS' CLOTHING, FURNISHINGS WOMEN'S CLOTHING SPECIALTY STORES

TOTAL $2,994,929 2,245,899 1,254,996 179,735 154,104 138,379 15,725 749,030 708,971 668,216 606,565 40,059 161,453 77,283 45,062 14,819 71,561 11,431 36,843 23,287 23,575 13,946 23,903 1,739,933 378,925 296,646 302,354 56,621 203,257 42,476 14,307 67,972 458,269 434,695 6,493 7,423 180,973 135,087 11,063 36,758

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Retail Trade Survey: 1999 Retail Sales, continued

(in millions of dollars) 562 565 566 58 5812 5812 pt. 5812 pt. 5813 591 592 596 5961 598 53,56,57,594 594

WOMEN'S READY TO WEAR FAMILY CLOTHING STORES SHOE STORES EATING AND DRINKING PLACES EATING PLACES RESTAURANTS, LUNCHROOMS, CAFETERIAS REFRESHMENT PLACES DRINKING PLACES (ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES) DRUG & PROPRIETARY STORES LIQUOR STORES NONSTORE RETAILERS (2) TOTAL MAIL ORDER (3) FUEL DEALERS GAF, TOTAL (4) MISCELLANEOUS SHOPPING GOODS STORES

30,349 53,866 21,593 285,371 271,269 143,568 122,818 14,102 120,733 28,034 113,721 89,633 17,150 781,718 106,253

1/ = Includes data for leased departments operated within department stores. Data for this line not included in broader kind-of-business totals. 2/ = Includes establishments primarily selling merchandise through coin-operated vending machines, by house-to-house canvass, or from mail order. 3/ = GAF represents stores which specialize in department store types of merchandise (general merchandise, apparel, furniture, miscellaneous shopping goods stores). 4/ = Data adjusted for seasonal variations, holiday, and trading day differences, but not for price changes. 5/ = For yearly totals, refer to unadjusted section. A/ = Advance estimates. P/ = Preliminary estimates. (NA) = Data not available. *Note: U.S. and group totals include kinds-of-business not shown.

Source: Monthly Retail Surveys Branch, U.S. Census Bureau | Last Revised: October 18, 2000

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Retail Trade Survey: 1998 Retail Sales (in millions of dollars)

SIC Code

Kind of Business NOT ADJUSTED

RETAIL SALES, TOTAL TOTAL, EXCL. AUTOMOTIVE GROUP DURABLE GOODS, TOTAL 52 BUILDING MATERIALS GROUP STORES BUILDING MATERIALS,SUPPLY STORES, 521,3,5 HARDWARE 521,3 BUILDING MATERIALS, SUPPLY STORES 525 HARDWARE STORES 55 EX 554 AUTOMOTIVE GROUP MOTOR VEHICLE & MISCELLANEOUS AUTO 551,2,5,6,7,9 DEALERS 551,2 MOTOR VEHICLE DEALERS 551 MOTOR VEHICLE DEALERS - NEW AND USED 553 AUTO & HOME SUPPLY STORES 57 FURNITURE GROUP STORES 571 FURNITURE & HOME FURNISHINGS STORES 5712 FURNITURE STORES 5713 FLOOR COVERING STORES HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCE, RADIO, TV & 5722,31,34 COMPUTER STORES 5722 HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCE STORES 5731 RADIO, TELEVISION AND ELECTRONIC STORES COMPUTER AND COMPUTER SOFTWARE 5734 STORES SPORTING GOODS STORES AND BICYCLE 5941 SHOPS 5942 BOOK STORES 5944 JEWELRY STORES NONDURABLE GOODS, TOTAL 53 GENERAL MERCHANDISE GROUP STORES 531 DEPT. STORES (EXCL. LEASED DEPTS.) 531 DEPT. STORES (INCL. LEASED DEPTS.) (1) CONVENTIONAL DEPT. STORES (INCL. LEASED DEPTS.) (1) 531 pt. DISCOUNT DEPT. STORES (INCL. LEASED DEPTS.) (1) 531 pt. NATIONAL CHAIN DEPT. STORES (INCL. LEASED 531 pt. DEPTS.) (1) 533 VARIETY STORES MISCELLANEOUS GENERAL MERCHANDISE 539 STORES

TOTAL $2,745,593 2,075,464 1,136,387 162,570 138,243 123,455 14,788 670,129 631,977 597,854 545,128 38,152 150,525 72,348 42,368 13,557 65,904 10,790 34,071 21,043 22,539 13,413 21,642 1,609,206 349,592 275,993 281,698 54,883 184,155 42,660 11,787 61,812

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Retail Trade Survey: 1998 Retail Sales, continued (in millions of dollars)

54 FOOD GROUP STORES 541 GROCERY STORES 542 MEAT, FISH (SEAFOOD) MARKETS 546 RETAIL BAKERIES 554 GASOLINE SERVICE STATIONS 56 APPAREL & ACCESSORY STORES 561 MEN'S & BOYS' CLOTHING, FURNISHINGS 562,3 WOMEN'S CLOTHING SPECIALTY STORES 562 WOMEN'S READY TO WEAR 565 FAMILY CLOTHING STORES 566 SHOE STORES 58 EATING AND DRINKING PLACES 5812 EATING PLACES 5812 pt. RESTAURANTS, LUNCHROOMS, CAFETERIAS 5812 pt. REFRESHMENT PLACES 5813 DRINKING PLACES (ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES) 591 DRUG & PROPRIETARY STORES 592 LIQUOR STORES 596 NONSTORE RETAILERS (2) 5961 TOTAL MAIL ORDER (3) 598 FUEL DEALERS 53,56,57,594 GAF, TOTAL (4) 594 MISCELLANEOUS SHOPPING GOODS STORES

435,383 412,720 6,107 6,711 163,199 126,980 10,638 34,640 28,661 49,633 21,518 266,410 252,388 137,740 110,188 14,022 108,340 25,510 99,329 75,386 15,271 727,160 100,063

1/ = Includes data for leased departments operated within department stores. Data for this line not included in broader kind-of-business totals. 2/ = Includes establishments primarily selling merchandise through coin-operated vending machines, by house-to-house canvass, or from mail order. 3/ = GAF represents stores which specialize in department store types of merchandise (general merchandise, apparel, furniture, miscellaneous shopping goods stores). 4/ = Data adjusted for seasonal variations, holiday, and trading day differences, but not for price changes. 5/ = For yearly totals, refer to unadjusted section.

*Note: U.S. and group totals include kinds-of-business not shown. Source: Monthly Retail Surveys Branch, U.S. Census Bureau | Last Revised: May 18, 2000

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Retail Trade Survey: 1997 Retail Sales (in millions of dollars)

SIC Code

Kind of Business NOT ADJUSTED

RETAIL SALES, TOTAL TOTAL (EXCL. AUTOMOTIVE GROUP) DURABLE GOODS, TOTAL 52 BUILDING MATERIALS GROUP STORES BUILDING MATERIALS,SUPPLY STORES, 521,3,5 HARDWARE 521,3 BUILDING MATERIALS, SUPPLY STORES 525 HARDWARE STORES 55 EX 554 AUTOMOTIVE GROUP MOTOR VEHICLE & MISCELLANEOUS AUTO 551,2,5,6,7,9 DEALERS 551,2 MOTOR VEHICLE DEALERS MOTOR VEHICLE DEALERS - NEW AND 551 USED 553 AUTO & HOME SUPPLY STORES 57 FURNITURE GROUP STORES 571 FURNITURE & HOME FURNISHINGS STORES 5712 FURNITURE STORES 5713 FLOOR COVERING STORES HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCE, RADIO, TV & 5722,31,34 COMPUTER STORES 5722 HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCE STORES RADIO, TELEVISION AND ELECTRONIC 5731 STORES COMPUTER AND COMPUTER SOFTWARE 5734 STORES SPORTING GOODS STORES AND BICYCLE 5941 SHOPS 5942 BOOK STORES 5944 JEWELRY STORES NONDURABLE GOODS, TOTAL 53 GENERAL MERCHANDISE GROUP STORES 531 DEPT. STORES (EXCL. LEASED DEPTS.) 531 DEPT. STORES (INCL. LEASED DEPTS.) (1) CONVENTIONAL DEPT. STORES (INCL. 531 pt. LEASED DEPTS.) (1) DISCOUNT DEPT. STORES (INCL. LEASED 531 pt. DEPTS.) (1) NATIONAL CHAIN DEPT. STORES (INCL. 531 pt. LEASED DEPTS.) (1) 533 VARIETY STORES

TOTAL 2,610,562 1,978,051 1,063,229 148,397 126,205 112,199 14,006 632,511 596,115 565,767 518,972 36,396 140,173 68,019 40,114 12,663 60,699 10,343 31,414 18,942 21,201 12,744 19,858 1,547,333 329,394 259,920 265,482 53,940 168,469 43,073 11,213

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Retail Trade Survey: 1997 Retail Sales, continued (in millions of dollars)

MISCELLANEOUS GENERAL MERCHANDISE 539 STORES 54 FOOD GROUP STORES 541 GROCERY STORES 542 MEAT, FISH (SEAFOOD) MARKETS 546 RETAIL BAKERIES 554 GASOLINE SERVICE STATIONS 56 APPAREL & ACCESSORY STORES 561 MEN'S & BOYS' CLOTHING, FURNISHINGS 562,3 WOMEN'S CLOTHING SPECIALTY STORES 562 WOMEN'S READY TO WEAR 565 FAMILY CLOTHING STORES 566 SHOE STORES 58 EATING AND DRINKING PLACES 5812 EATING PLACES RESTAURANTS, LUNCHROOMS, 5812 pt. CAFETERIAS 5812 pt. REFRESHMENT PLACES DRINKING PLACES (ALCOHOLIC 5813 BEVERAGES) 591 DRUG & PROPRIETARY STORES 592 LIQUOR STORES 596 NONSTORE RETAILERS (2) 5961 TOTAL MAIL ORDER (3) 598 FUEL DEALERS 53,56,57,594 GAF, TOTAL (4) MISCELLANEOUS SHOPPING GOODS 594 STORES

58,261 423,725 402,310 5,871 6,096 172,081 119,605 10,092 33,466 27,837 45,337 20,763 254,124 240,629 132,845 103,924 13,495 98,822 24,092 89,924 65,887 18,103 683,245 94,073

1/ = Includes data for leased departments operated within department stores. Data for this line not included in broader kind-of-business totals. 2/ = Includes establishments primarily selling merchandise through coin-operated vending machines, by house-to-house canvass or from mail order. 3/ = GAF represents stores which specialize in department store types of merchandise (general merchandise, apparel, furniture, miscellaneous shopping goods stores. 4/ = Data adjusted for seasonal variations, holiday, and trading day differences, but not for price changes. 5/ = For yearly totals, refer to unadjusted section. *Note: U.S. and group totals include kinds-of-business not shown. Source: Monthly Retail Surveys Branch, U.S. Census Bureau | Last Revised: May 18, 2000

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MONTHLY RETAIL TRADE SURVEY Explanatory Materials The Bureau of the Census produces the Annual Benchmark Report for Retail Trade to provide national estimates of annual sales and end-of-year inventories of retail establishments by kind of business. The Census Bureau uses the more accurate annual estimates to revise the previously published estimates of monthly sales and end-of-month inventories. We develop the sales and inventory estimates in this report using data from a probability sample. The sample is taken from a universe of employer firms of all sizes and kinds of business in retail trade throughout the nation. Knowing each unit's probability of being included in the sample allows us to evaluate the sampling variability of the estimates. Sample Design This section describes the design of the sample used to estimate sales (monthly and annual) and end-of-year inventories. The sample used to estimate end-of-month inventories is a subsample of this sample. A description of the methods used to design this subsample is included at the end of this section. Sampling Frame. A new sample was used to compute estimates beginning with the April 1997 data month. This section describes the design and selection procedures for the new sample. For a description of the prior sample see the Annual Benchmark Report for Retail Trade for 1996 or prior years. The same sampling frame was used for the Monthly Retail Trade Survey (MRTS) and the Annual Retail Trade Survey (ARTS). The frame has two types of sampling units represented -- Employer Identification Numbers (EINs) and large, multiple-establishment firms. Both sampling units represent clusters of one or more establishments owned or controlled by the same firm. All of the information used to create these sampling units was extracted from establishment records contained on the Census Bureau's Standard Statistical Establishment List (SSEL) as updated to December 31, 1994. The next few paragraphs give details about the SSEL; the distinction between firms, EINs, and establishments; and the construction of the sampling units used in the sample selection. Though important, they are not essential to understanding the basic sample design and readers may continue to the Stratification, Sampling Rates, and Allocation section. The SSEL is a multi-relational database that contains a record for each establishment with employees. The establishment is the smallest entity represented on the SSEL. An establishment is a single physical location where business transactions take place and for which payroll and employment records are kept. Groups of one or more establishments under common ownership or control are firms. A singleunit firm owns or operates only one establishment, whereas a multiunit firm owns or operates two or more establishments. The treatment of establishments on the SSEL differs according to whether the establishment is part of a multiunit or singleunit firm. In particular, the structure of an establishment's primary identifier on the SSEL differs depending on whether it is owned by a singleunit firm or by a multiunit firm. A singleunit firm's primary identifier is its Employer Identification Number. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) issues the EIN and the firm uses it as an identifier to report social security payments for its employees under the Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA). The same act requires all employer firms to use EINs. Because singleunit firms have only one establishment, there is a one-to-one relationship between the firm and the EIN. Thus the firm, the EIN, and the establishment all reference the same physical location and all three terms can be used interchangeably and unambiguously when referring to single establishment firms.

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For multiunit firms however, a different structure connects an employer firm with its establishments via the EIN. When reading the following, it may help to keep in mind the analogy of a filing cabinet (multiunit firm) composed of many drawers (EINs) each containing several files (establishments). Essentially a multiunit firm is associated with a cluster of one or more EINs and EINs are associated with two or more establishments. Each firm is associated with at least one EIN and only one firm can use a given EIN. However, one firm may have several EINs. Similarly, there is a one-to-many relationship between EINs and establishments. Each EIN can be associated with many establishments but each establishment is associated with only one EIN. Because of the possibility of one-to-many relationships, we must distinguish between the firm, its EINs, and its establishments. The firm that owns or controls a multiunit establishment is identified on the SSEL by way of the establishment's primary identifier. A multiunit establishment's primary identifier consists of a unique combination of an alpha number and a plant number. The alpha number identifies the firm; and the plant number identifies the establishment within the firm. All establishments owned or controlled by the same firm have the same alpha number. Different firms have different alpha numbers and different establishments within the same firm have different plant numbers. The Census Bureau assigns both the alpha number to the firm and the plant numbers to the establishments based on the results of the quinquennial economic censuses and the annual Company Organization Surveys. To create the sampling frame, we extracted the records for all establishments that have a Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) that falls in the Retail Trade area as defined in the 1987 Standard Industrial Classification Manual. For these establishments, we extracted sales (or receipts), payroll, employment, inventory, name and address information, as well as primary identifiers and, for multiunit establishments, associated EINs. We summarize the economic data of multiunit establishments to an EIN level by tabulating the establishment data for all retail establishments associated with the same EIN. Similarly we summarize to a firm level by tabulating the establishment data for all establishments associated with the same alpha number. These are the sampling units created from multiunit establishments. No aggregation is necessary to put singleunit establishment information on an EIN basis or a firm basis. Thus, the sampling units created for singleunit firms simultaneously represent establishment, EIN, and firm information. In summary, the sampling frame is a complex amalgam of establishments, EINs, and firms. Stratification , Sampling Rates, and Allocation. The primary stratification of the frame is by kind-of-business group based on the detail required for this publication. We further stratify the sampling units within kind of business groups (substratify) by a measure of size related to their sales. To reduce the variance of the estimates, the largest sampling units are selected "with certainty." This means they are sure to be selected and will represent only themselves (i.e., have a selection probability of one and a sampling weight of one). Within each kind-ofbusiness stratum a substratum boundary (or cutoff) that divides the certainty units from the noncertainty units is determined. We based these cutoffs on a statistical analysis of data from the 1992 Census of Retail Trade. Accordingly, these values are on a 1992 sales basis. We also used this analysis to set sampling rates needed to achieve specified sampling variability objectives for sales estimates for different kind-of-business groups. The reciprocal of the sampling rate is referred to as the sampling weight. Note that we computed sampling rates using data from the 1992 Census, the actual sample size was determined by applying these sampling rates to the sampling frame constructed from the 1994 SSEL. We then allocated the sample optimally based on the number of sampling units and standard deviation of the units' measures of size. The allocation is optimal in the sense that it achieves the minimum variance for a fixed sample size. Sample Selection. The first step in the sample selection identified certainty firms. If a firm had total retail sales (for 1994 adjusted to a 1992 basis) greater than the corresponding certainty cutoff for its major kind of business, the firm was selected into the sample with certainty. In this case, the firm is considered the sampling unit. This has important consequences when the firm adds establishments. If a firm was selected with certainty and had more than one establishment at the time of sampling, any new establishments that the firm acquires, even if under new or different EINs, are included in the sample with certainty. If a singleunit firm was selected with certainty

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all future establishments associated with that firm's original EIN are included with certainty; any new EINs that might later be associated with that firm are subjected to sampling as births (see below). All firms not selected with certainty were subjected to sampling on an EIN basis. If a firm had more than one EIN, each of its EINs was a separate sampling unit. To be eligible for the initial sampling, an EIN had to have nonzero payroll in 1994. The EINs were stratified according to their major kind of business and their estimated sales (on a 1992 basis). Within each noncertainty stratum, a simple random sample of EINs was selected. We then assigned the selected cases to one of two groups. One group is canvassed for both the monthly and annual surveys, the other only for the annual survey. The sampling weights for the EINs selected in the sample for the monthly sales survey varied between 1 in 1 and 1 in 968.6. The maximum weight for the noncertainty sample canvassed for the annual survey was 464.3. Sample Maintenance. Periodically, we update the sample to represent EINs issued since the last sample selection. For all EIN "births," a two-phase selection procedure is used. EIN births are new EINs recently assigned by the IRS, on the latest available IRS mailing list for FICA taxpayers, and assigned a kind-of-business classification (if possible) by the Social Security Administration (SSA). In the first phase, births are stratified by kind of business and size (expected employment or quarterly payroll). A relatively large sample is drawn and canvassed to obtain a more reliable measure of size, consisting of sales in two recent months, and a more detailed kind-of-business code, if needed. Using this more reliable information, the selected births from the first phase are subjected to probabilityproportional-to-size sampling with overall probabilities equivalent to those used in drawing the initial sample from the 1994 SSEL. Because of the lag in reporting births to the IRS, and the time needed to accomplish the twophase birth-selection procedure, births are added to the sample about nine months or more after they begin operation. The processing of the EIN births differs between the monthly and annual surveys. For the monthly survey (MRTS), the EIN births selected in a quarter are added into the survey during the quarter. Because births are not represented in the monthly sample until they go through the two- phase selection procedure, an interim procedure is used to account for births during the period between the onset of activity and the time of birth selection. This consists of imputing data for all selected cases that go out of business but are still on the IRS mailing list. For the annual survey (ARTS), the births that are selected in the quarterly birth-selection procedure in November of the annual survey year are included in the main mailing of the ARTS questionnaires in January of the following year. To better represent all EIN births in the annual survey year, and specifically to account for the coverage lag in the birth-selection procedure, we add births to the annual sample that are selected in February, May, and August of the year following the survey year. We mail survey forms to these births in June and August to supplement the main annual survey mailing. To be eligible for the sample canvass and tabulation in a given month, a retail EIN selected in the noncertainty sampling operations must meet both of the following requirements: • •

It must be on the latest available IRS mailing list for FICA taxpayers from the previous quarter; and It must have been selected from either the SSEL or the file of employer births.

EINs selected into the sample with certainty are not dropped from canvass and tabulation if they are no longer on the IRS mailing list. Rather, the business that used the EIN is contacted, and if a successor EIN is found, it is added to the survey. This is a more stringent quality control used for these larger businesses. Estimation Procedures for Monthly Sales. All sampling units selected with certainty (weight equal to 1.0) are canvassed each month to obtain sales and other information for the month just ending. As noted previously, two samples of noncertainty (weight greater than 1.0) EINs were selected. Each month, all certainty sampling units and half of all selected noncertainty sampling units are asked to report their sales data for the month just ending.

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(The remaining half of the noncertainty units are canvassed only for the annual survey.) The estimates are computed as the sum of weighted data (reported and imputed), where the weight for a given sampling unit is the reciprocal of its probability of selection. Estimation Procedures for Annual Data. The annual sales and end-of-year inventories estimates published in this report are based on the ARTS. The estimates are computed as the sum of weighted data (reported and imputed) for all selected sampling units that meet the tabulation criteria given in the Sample Maintenance section. The weight for a given sampling unit is the reciprocal of its probability of selection. For noncertainty units, annual weights are equal to half of the monthly weight because units from both noncertainty panels are used to produce annual estimates whereas only one panel is used to produce monthly estimates. The use of a larger sample results in annual estimates having less sampling variability than monthly estimates. The estimates of total inventory published in this report are on a non-LIFO basis. For those firms that value inventory on a LIFO (last-in, first-out) basis, the LIFO reserve amount is added to the LIFO value to get inventory on a non-LIFO basis. In the ARTS, sampling units that used a LIFO cost basis for all or part of their inventory were asked to report LIFO reserves. For 1997 we adjusted the inventories and purchases by multiplying the 1997 ARTS estimates by the ratio of 1997 preliminary census sales to 1997 ARTS sales. Therefore, 1997 inventories are comparable to the 1997 preliminary census sales shown in this report. Subsample to Estimate End-of-Month Inventories As stated above, the sample used to estimate end-of-month inventories (the inventory sample) is a subset of the units used to estimate monthly and annual sales and end-of-year inventories (the sales sample). This section highlights differences between the design of the subsample and the complete sample. Sampling Frame. The inventory sample is a subsample of the sales sample. Thus, the inventory sampling frame is the sales sample and has the same types of sampling units as the sales frame - companies and EINs. Descriptions of these sampling units are given above. Stratification, Sampling Rates, and Allocation. Sampling units are stratified by their major kind of business. The stratification used for the monthly inventory sample is based on groupings of 3-digit and 4-digit Standard Industrial Classification codes. Because the estimates of end-of-month inventories are produced for somewhat broader kind-of-business groupings, the stratification for the inventory sample is coarser than the stratification used for the sales sample. Sampling units are assigned to substrata based on a measure of size related to their sales. Sampling rates for the inventory subsample are computed using the same methods as described previously. The reciprocal of the sampling rate is referred to as the sampling weight. Units tabulated in the monthly inventory survey have both an inventory weight and a sales weight. Because the inventory sample is a subsample of the sales sample, the inventory weight is greater than or equal to the sales weight. Sample Selection. The selection of the inventory sample is carried out independently within each sales-size substratum contained in a kind-of-business stratum. The actual selection procedure follows a systematic, probability-proportional-to-size scheme and will not be described here. Because the inventory sample is a subsample of the sales sample, it is possible that some units already have been selected with a sales weight that is greater than the desired inventory weight. These units are assigned to a separate panel without being subjected to a second sampling procedure. For these units, the inventory weight is set equal to the sales weight. Thus, in addition to the panel of certainty units and two panels of noncertainty units, there is another panel of noncertainty units that was not subjected to the subsampling. The sampling rates for the EINs selected in the sample for the monthly inventory survey varied between 1 in 1 and 1 in 2631.6.

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Sample Maintenance. The inventory sample is updated in the same manner and at the same time as the Monthly Retail Trade Survey sample. A subsample of the births selected for the sales sample is selected for the inventory sample. The sampling rates of the initial inventory sampling are maintained. Monthly Estimation Procedures. The procedures described above in the Monthly Estimation Procedures for the Sales Sample are followed except the sales weight is replaced by the inventory weight for all inventory computations. Percent Change Month-to-month and year-to-year comparisons for sales and inventory are based on the total dollar volume of receipts or value of inventory for each period being compared. These trends thus include the effect of stores starting operation or ceasing operation and are not limited to "identical stores", i.e., those in operation in both of the periods being compared. The percent changes shown in the Percent Change in Estimated Monthly Retail Sales for Kinds of Business tables not marked with an asterisk are derived directly from the dollar volume estimates in the current Monthly Retail Trade Survey sales tables. The sampling variability of dollar estimates for those kinds of business with an asterisk is relatively large. Therefore, such estimates are not shown for sales. However, the sampling variability of the percent changes derived from such estimates are relatively small and are, therefore, shown in the Percent Change in Estimated Monthly Retail Sales for Kinds of Business tables for sales. Revisions to Previously Published Data Annual Estimates. Annual estimates of sales and inventories derived for the years 1993 through 1997 were adjusted to 1992 and 1997 Census of Retail Trade estimates. The 1992 and 1997 sales were adjusted to include an estimate for nonemployer direct sellers (SIC 5963). these estimates were obtained from the 1992 and 1997 Annual retail Trade Surveys. The 1993 through 1997 annual estimates of sales and end-of-year inventories were input to the benchmarking program and revised to: • • •

Equate the 1997 estimates to preliminary results derived from the 1997 Census of Retail Trade.; Link the series to the 1992 Census of Retail Trade level; and Maintain, as best as possible, the year-to-year trends computed from estimates derived from our annual survey for the years 1993 through 1997.

The inventory estimates for the Census years 1992 and 1997 were computed by multiplying the inventories obtained from the annual surveys (1992 and 1997) by the ratio of preliminary Census sales to sales derived from annual surveys (1992 and 1997). The procedure was implemented because inventory data were not collected in the Census. Monthly Sales. For the period December 1992 through December 1998, retail sales estimates computed directly from the sample, were used as input to the benchmarking program. The estimates were revised to: • •

Constrain the sum of the 12 monthly estimates to equal the annual estimates (the benchmarking) derived for the year 1993 through 1997; and Minimize differences between the month-to-month trends of the input and revised estimates.

The previously published December 1992 estimate was also used to link the revised estimates to the previously published estimates. Also, prior to implementing the benchmarking operation, corrections were applied to the estimates obtained directly from the sample for selected kinds of business. A mathematical result of the revision methodology is that all input estimates following the last benchmark year (1997) are revised by multiplying these estimates by the ratio of the revised-to-input estimate for December 1997. Therefore, for specified detailed sales series, a ratio of the December 1997 revised estimate to the December 1997

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input estimate was computed. Input estimates for months following December 1997 were multiplied by these constant ratios (called carry-forward factors) to derive revised sales estimates. The carry-forward factors remain constant until the next benchmarking. End-of-Month Inventories. The December 1992 through December 1998, end-of-month inventory estimates, computed directly from the sample, were used as input to the benchmarking program. The data were revised to: • •

Equate the December or end-of-year inventory estimates, for the years 1993 through 1997 to the revised end-of-year annual estimates; and. Minimize differences between month-to-month trends of the input and revised estimates.

The previously published December 1992 estimate was also a benchmark which linked the revised estimates to the previously published estimates. Also, prior to the implementation of the bench marking operation, corrections were applied to estimates obtained directly from the sample for selected kinds of business. For specified detailed inventory series, revised estimates subsequent to December 1997 were derived by multiplying the input estimates by the ratio of the revised December 1997 estimates to the December 1997 input inventory estimate. This ratio is the carry-forward factor for inventory estimates and is constant for all series until the next benchmarking. Reasons For Revisions. There are several reasons for revisions. The main contributors to the revision from the previously published estimates are: Changes in Classification. The sales and inventory estimates are benchmarked to preliminary results from the Census of Retail Trade. Changes in census classification between the 1992 and 1997 censuses affect the levels of the monthly and annual estimates. The previously published estimates were benchmarked to the 1992 census, but the revised levels are benchmarked to the 1997 census. Classification differences may occur because 1)establishments previously classified in other trade areas changed to retail; 2) establishments previously classified as retail are now classified in another trade area; and 3) establishments changed classification within retail trade. Timing. The respondents have more time to prepare their annual reports than they do for their monthly reports. The annual responses are requested at a time when many firms have already compiled audited book figures for their own use. The timing of the annual survey is such that we are also able to obtain independent verification of the reported data from such sources as a company's annual report. On the other hand, respondents to the monthly survey have just a few weeks to provide reports of their sales and end-of-month inventories. Sometimes these reports are based on incomplete or unaudited records. These include estimates by the respondents to represent their understanding of their business. Sampling. The annual sample is larger than the samples used to develop the estimates for any given month. As described in more detail in Appendix A of this report, the samples used to produce the sales estimates each month consist of certainty companies and noncertainty Employer Identification Numbers (EIN's). The companies selected as certainty companies are those companies that had large sales in relation to other companies in their kind-of-business group. The initial selection of the noncertainty EIN's was based on stratified random sampling, using annual sales as the measure of size, for those EIN's not belonging to a certainty company. The selected noncertainty EIN's were assigned to one of two groups. The monthly sample canvasses one group of noncertainty EIN's while both groups of noncertainty EIN's are canvassed in the annual sample. The sample used for the end-of-month inventory estimates is a sub-sample of the monthly sales sample. The monthly inventories sample is about 1/3 the size of the monthly sales sample. This, combined with the differences

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between the annual and monthly surveys mentioned above, often results in greater revision for the inventories estimates than for the sales estimates. Response. The annual estimates are based on more reported data than are the monthly estimates. The response to the Annual Retail Trade Survey is required by law. This requirement results in a dollar volume response rate above 90 percent. The response to our monthly survey is not mandatory. The response rates for the monthly surveys are usually around 80 percent for sales and 70 percent for inventories. The sales and inventories for the non-reported retailers are accounted for by an imputation process. This process assumes that the nonresponding firms have trends similar to the responding firms, in their respective kinds of business. Adjustment Factors. In addition to the benchmarking operation, we developed new factors to adjust the 1990 through 1998 estimates of monthly sales for seasonal variations as well as trading day and holiday differences. We used the unadjusted sales estimates for the months of January 1972 through May or June 1999 as input. We also developed new factors to adjust the 1990 through 1998 end- of-month inventory estimates, using the months of December 1980 through May 1999 as input. The seasonal adjustment program which developed the factors in this publication was the X-11 ARIMA version, developed by Statistics Canada. Using forecasting, we developed the adjustment factors for the sales of department stores (SIC 5311), variety stores (SIC 5331), and miscellaneous general merchandise stores (SIC 5399) by the version using forecasting. All other factors were calculated without forecasting. Unpublished Data Selected additional data, such as dollar volume estimates for some kinds of business, are produced as a byproduct of the regularly published statistics. These additional data are not included because of high imputation or sampling variability (relative to the changes from month to month or between other periods) that might make them potentially misleading. For a fee, the Bureau of the Census will release such data for individual use, though not for publication. It should be noted that some unpublished data can be derived directly from the current Monthly Retail Trade Survey sales tables. by subtracting published data from their respective totals. However, the data obtained by such subtraction would be subject to the high imputation rates or high sampling variability described previously for unpublished kinds of business. Definition of Terms Retail Trade. Retail trade, as defined by Major Groups 52 through 59 of the 1987 Standard Industrial Classification Manual includes establishments that are engaged in the sale of merchandise for personal or household consumption and in the rendering of services that are incidental to the sale of the merchandise. Additional characteristics of retail establishments are: • • • • •

They usually operate at fixed places of business; They are engaged in activities to attract the general public to buy; They buy or receive and sell merchandise; They may process their products, but such processing is incidental or subordinate to selling; and They are considered as retail in the trade.

Sales. Sales include merchandise sold (for cash or credit at retail or wholesale) by establishments primarily engaged in retail trade. Services that are incidental to the sale of merchandise, and excise taxes that are paid by the manufacturer or wholesaler and passed along to the retailer are also included. Sales are net after deductions for refunds and allowances for merchandise returned by customers. Sales exclude sales taxes collected directly from customers and paid directly to a local, state, or federal tax agency. The estimates of sales measure the operations receipts rendered by stores that primarily sell at retail. The sales estimates represent total sales and receipts of all establishments primarily engaged in retail trade. They do not include sales at retail by manufacturers, wholesalers, service establishments, and others whose primary activity is

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other than retail trade. Because the retail establishment is the basic unit of measure, the published estimates of sales by type of retail store are not intended to measure the total sales for a given commodity or merchandise line. Inventories. Merchandise inventories are the value of stocks of goods held for sale through retail stores. The inventories estimates represent the value, at cost, of the merchandise available for sale as of the last day of the report period. Methods of valuation may vary according to the accounting practices of each firm. The estimates provided in this report are valued on a non-LIFO (last in, first out) basis. Note - LIFO is a method of valuing inventory where the latest items of merchandise added to the inventory are the first ones taken out. Non-LIFO would mean that another method, such as FIFO (first in, first out), was used to establish the value of the inventory available for sale. Merchandise inventories are shown for stores and warehouses servicing retail establishments. Included are only those warehouses that maintained supplies of merchandise primarily intended for distribution to retail stores within the organization. Most firms reported the value of their inventories as of the close of the calendar year. Some firms, using a fiscal year rather than a calendar year for accounting purposes, valued their inventory as of some date other than the last day of the calendar year. About 26 percent of the retail inventory estimate from the Annual Retail Trade Survey was based on data reported on an end-of-fiscal year other than December 31. In the annual survey, inventories reported for a date in a month other than December were adjusted to a December 31 equivalent, based on ratios developed from the monthly inventory sample. Inventory-to-Sales Ratios. The inventories/sales ratios show the relationship of the end-of- month values of inventory to the monthly sales. These ratios can be looked at as indications of the number of months of inventory that are on hand in relation to the sales for a month. For example, a ratio of 2.5 would indicate that the retail stores have enough merchandise on hand to cover two and a half months of sales. G A F. GAF represents sales at stores that sell merchandise normally sold in department stores. GAF includes the following kinds of retail businesses: • General merchandise group stores (SIC 53), • Apparel and accessory stores (SIC 56), • Furniture group stores (SIC 57), and • Miscellaneous shopping goods stores (SIC 594). • Price Changes. The estimates presented in this publication have not been adjusted for price changes. Source: Monthly Retail Surveys Branch, U.S. Census Bureau | Last Revised: May 18, 1999

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Monthly Retail Trade Survey Reliability of Monthly Estimates An estimate based on a sample survey will differ from the population value because of sampling variability and nonsampling error. Sampling variability occurs because observations are made only on a sample, not on the entire population. Nonsampling errors can be attributed to many sources in the reporting, collections and processing of data. The accuracy of a survey result is determined by the joint effects of sampling variability and nonsampling errors. Measures of Sampling Variability The particular sample used in these surveys is one of a large number of all possible samples of the same size that could have been selected using the same design. Estimates derived from the different samples would differ from each other. The average of these estimates would be close to the estimate derived from a compete enumerations of the population. This assumes that a complete enumeration has the same nonsampling error as the sample survey. For sales and inventories, the average of the estimates differs from a complete census because of the composite estimation technique. Disregarding this difference, the standard error of the estimate is a measure of the variability among the estimates from all possible samples of the same size and design and, thus, is a measure of the precision with which an estimate from a particular sample approximates the results of a complete enumeration. The coefficient of variation (expressed as a percent) is the standard error of the estimate times 100 divided by the value being estimated. Note that the coefficients of variations are estimates derived from the sample and are also subject to sampling variability. The coefficients of variation presented in the tables permit certain confidence statements aobut the sample estimates. As noted before, the particular sample used in this survey is one of a large number of samples of the same size that could have been selected using the same design. In about 2 out of 3 (67%) of these samples, th estimate would differ from a complete enumeration by less than the corresponding percent for the estimate shown in the sampling variability tables. In about 9 out of 10 (90%) of these samples, the estimates would differ from the results of a complete enumeration by less than 1.65 times the percentage shown. In about 19 out of 20 (95%) of these samples, the estimates would differ from the results of a complete enumeration by less than twice the percentage shown. To illustrate the computations involved in the above confidence statements, as related to dollar volume sales estimates, assume that an estimate of sales is $10,750 million for a particular month and that the median coefficient of variation for this estimate is 1.8%, or 0.018. Multiplying $10,750 million by 0.018 yields 194 million. Therefore, a 67% confidence interval is $10,556 million to $10,944 million ($10,750 million plus or minus $194 million). If corresponding confidence intervals were constructed for all possible samples of the same size and design, approximately 2 out of 3 (67%) of these intervals would contain the figure obtained from a complete enumeration. Typical practice is to construct 90 or 95% confidence intervals. Continuing with the illustration, a 90% confidence interval using 1.65 x 0.018 x 10,750 million to yield 320 million). A 95% confidence interval is $10,362 million to $11,138 million ($10,750 million plus or minus $388 million). All comparisons for which measures of sampling variability are available are accompanied by an indication of the 90% confidence interval. Thus, a statement such as “+.8 (+ or – 1.3)” indicates a 90% confidence interval from – 0.5 to +2.1. If the confidence interval contains zero, it is uncertain whether there is an increase or decrease.

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

Nonsampling Errors As calculated, the coefficient of variation measures certain nonsampling errors but does not measure any systematic biases in the data. Bias is the difference, averaged over all possible samples of the same size and design, between the estimates and the true value being estimated. Nonsampling errors can be attributed to many sources: (1) inability to obtain information about all cases in the sample, (2) response errors, (3) definitional difficulties, (4) differences in the interpretation of questions, (5) mistakes in recording or coding the data obtained, and (6) other errors of collection, response, coverage, and estimation of missing data. These nonsampling errors also occur in complete censuses. Although no direct measures of the biases have been obtained, precautionary steps were taken in all phases of the collection, processing, and tabulations of the data in an effort to minimize their influence. Coverage error has an effect on the accuracy of estimates for this survey to the extent that the administrative record system, which forms the basis of our survey universe frame, does not contain all legal businesses. A major source of bias in the estimates is due to imputing data for nonrespondents, for late reporters, and for data which fail edit. For all kinds of business, combined imputed sales amount to about 23% of the national sales estimates. Source: Monthly Retail Surveys Branch, U.S. Census Bureau, Last Revised: April 17, 1999

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Estimated Coefficients of Variation and Standard Error for Retail Sales by Kinds of Business (Not adjusted for seasonal variations, holiday, or trading day differences)

SIC Code

Kind of Business Total (excl. automotive group) Durable goods, total

52

Building materials group stores

521,3,5

Building materials, supply stores, hardware

521,3

Building materials, supply stores

523

Paint, glass, wallpaper stores*

525

Hardware stores

55 EX 554

Automotive group

551,2,5,6,7,9

Motor vehicle and miscellaneous automotive dealers

551,2

Motor vehicle dealers

551

Motor vehicle dealers-new and used

553

Auto & home supply stores

57

Furniture group stores

571

Furniture & home furnishings stores

5712

Furniture stores

5713

Floor covering stores

5722,31,34

Household appl., radio, TV and comp. stores

5722

Household appliance stores

5731

Radio, TV, and electronic stores

5734

Computer and computer software stores

5735,36

Music stores*

5941

Sporting goods stores and bicycle shops

5942

Book stores

5944

Jewelry stores

5946

Camera, photographic supply stores*

5999 pt.

Optical goods stores* Nondurable goods, total

53

General merchandise group stores

531

Dept. stores (excl. leased depts.)

531

Dept. stores (incl. leased depts.) (3)

531 pt

Conv. dept. stores (incl. leased depts.) (3)

531 pt

Disc. dept. stores (incl. leased depts.) (3)

531 pt

Nat. chain dept. stores (incl. leased depts.) (3)

533

Variety stores

539

Miscellaneous general merchandise stores

54

Food group stores

541

Grocery stores

542

Meat, fish (seafood) markets

543

Fruit stores & vegetable markets*

544

Candy, nut, confectionery stores*

Coefficients of

Standard Error

Variation for Level (x100)

for Est. of:

Prelim.

Final

Month/Month

Year/Year

Estimates

Estimates

Change

Change

Median

Median

Median

Median

0.5 1.2 1.9 1.9 1.8 (x) 4.2 1.8 2 2.3 2.6 5.4 1.9 2.7 3.7 5.3 3.6 3.1 4.7 6.2 (x) 3.4 4.5 4.8 (x) (x) 0.7 0.2 0 0 0 0 0 2.4 0.9 1.2 1.2 6.3 (x) (x)

0.5 1.2 2 1.9 1.9 (x) 4.2 1.8 2 2.3 2.6 5.4 1.9 2.6 3.6 5.2 3.6 3 4.7 6.3 (x) 3.5 4.4 4.9 (x) (x) 0.7 0.2 0 0 0 0 0 2.3 0.9 1.2 1.2 6 (x) (x)

0.1 0.3 0.7 0.5 0.6 1.9 1.1 0.5 0.6 0.6 0.6 0.7 0.5 0.5 0.7 1.6 0.6 0.8 0.6 0.9 2.1 1.2 1 1.4 2.2 1.1 0.1 0.1 0 0 0 0 0 0.4 0.3 0.2 0.2 1.6 2.6 2.8

0.3 0.7 1.3 1.4 1.5 4.1 1.5 1.2 1.3 1.2 1.3 1.1 0.7 0.8 1.2 2.6 1 1.2 0.8 2.2 3 1.9 1.2 1.6 2.8 2.6 0.3 0.1 0 0 0 0 0 0.9 0.3 0.8 0.9 1.8 3.3 3.2

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Estimated Coefficients of Variation and Standard Error for Retail Sales by Kinds of Business, continued Coefficients of

Standard Error

Variation for Level (x100)

SIC Code

Kind of Business

546

Retail bakeries

554

Gasoline service stations

56

Apparel & accessory stores

561

Men's & boys' clothing, furnishings

562,3

Women's clothing specialty stores

562

Women's ready to wear stores

565

Family clothing stores

566

Shoe stores

58

Eating and drinking places

5812

Eating places

5812 pt

Restaurants, lunchrooms, cafeterias

5812 pt

Refreshment places

5813

Drinking places (alcoholic beverages)

591

Drug & proprietary stores

592

Liquor stores

5943

Stationery stores*

596

Nonstore retailers (4)

5961

Total mail order (5)

598

Fuel dealers

5992

Florist shops*

53,56,57,594

GAF, total (6)

594

Miscellaneous shopping goods stores

for Est. of:

Prelim.

Final

Month/Month

Year/Year

Estimates

Estimates

Change

Change

Median

Median

Median

4.2 3.3 1.4 11.3 2.8 3.5 1.6 2 3.1 3.3 0 4.5 4.9 1.5 3.5 (x) 3.8 0 8.4 (x) 0.5 2.6

4.1 3.3 1.4 11.3 2.8 3.4 1.7 1.9 3.1 3.3 0 4.5 4.5 1.5 3.5 (x) 3.8 0 8.4 (x) 0.5 2.6

Median

1 0.3 0.3 1.5 0.6 0.6 0.4 0.6 0.5 0.5 0 0.6 1.3 0.4 0.7 2.7 0.6 0 1.9 2.7 0.1 0.8

1.3 1 0.6 1.8 0.9 1 0.8 1 0.9 1 0 1.2 2.8 1.2 2 3.2 1.3 0 4 3.5 0.2 1.1

• See percent change at http://www.census.gov/svsd/www/vexplan.html. (x) not applicable (1) The ratio of the preliminary estimate for the current moth over the final estimate for the previous month. (2) The ratio of the preliminary estimate to the final estimate for the same month one year ago. (3) Includes data for leased department operated within department stores. Data for this line not included in broader kind-of-business total. (4) Includes establishments primarily selling merchandise through coin-operated vending machines. (5) The sales estimates for “total mail order,” SIC 5961, are the sums of the “mail-order” houses (department store merchandise) and the “other mail order.” (6) GAF represents stores which specialize in department store types of merchandise (general merchandise, apparel, furniture, and miscellaneous shopping goods stores). See Explanatory Material at http://www.census.gov/svsd/www/vexplan.html Note: The medians of the coefficients of variation shown above for the preliminary and final estimates and the ratio of change in sales are based on sales estimates for the 12 most recent data months. Source: Monthly Retail Trade Survey, Services Sector Statistics Division, Bureau of the Census, Washington, DC 20233

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Estimated Coefficients of Variation in Percent for Retail Inventories, by Kinds of Business (Based on inventories - estimates not adjusted for seasonal variations) Stand. Error Standard Coefficients Coefficients

of Trend

Error

of Variation of Variation Ratio of 12 for Trend Level (x100) Level (x100) Consecutive Year to

SIC Code

Kind of Business Retail inventories, total Total (excl. automotive) Durable goods, total 52 Building materials group stores 55 ex 554 Automotive group 57 Furniture group stores Nondurable goods, total 53 General merchandise group stores . . . 531 Dept. stores (excl. leased depts.) 54 Food Group stores 56 Apparel & accessory stores

Prelim. Est.

Final Est.

Months

Year Est.

Median

Median

Median

Median

1.4 1.4 2.1 3.0 2.3 4.2 1.0 0.4 0.1 0.9 4.9

1.4 1.4 2.1 3.0 2.4 4.2 1.0 0.4 0.1 1.0 4.8

0.2 0.1 0.3 0.3 0.4 0.3 0.1 0.0 0.0 0.1 0.4

0.5 0.4 0.8 1.8 1.3 0.8 0.4 0.2 0.1 1.1 1.3

(1) The median standard error of the preliminary estimate to the final estimate for the same month one year ago. SOURCE: MONTHLY RETAIL TRADE SURVEY SERVICES SECTOR STATISTICS DIVISION BUREAU OF THE CENSUS WASHINGTON, DC 20233

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MONTHLY RETAIL TRADE SURVEY Kind-of-Business Classifications

General Description Retail trade SIC Major Groups 52-59, includes establishments primarily engaged in selling merchandise for personal or household consumption and rendering services incidental to the sale of goods. The kinds of business shown in this text parallel broad classifications defined in the 1987 edition of the Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) manual. Descriptions of each kind of business follow. Data for some kinds of business are not shown separately but are included in U.S. group totals. Durable Goods Building Materials Group Stores (SIC Major Group 52). This major group includes retail establishments primarily engaged in selling lumber and other building materials; paint, glass, and wallpaper, hardware; nursery stock; lawn and garden supplies; and mobile homes, even if sales to contractors account for a larger proportion of total sales. These establishments are known as "retail" in the trade. Establishments primarily selling these products but not selling to the general public are classified in wholesale trade. Lumber and Other Building Materials Dealers(SIC 521).1 Establishments engaged in selling primarily lumber and/or a general line of building materials to the general public. The lumber which they sell may include rough and dressed lumber, flooring, molding, doors, sashes, frames, and other millwork. The building materials may include roofing, siding, shingles, wallboard, paint, brick, tile, cement, sand, gravel, and other building materials and supplies. Hardware is often an important line of retail lumber and building materials dealers. Establishments known as "home centers" are included here. Paint, Glass, and Wallpaper Stores (SIC 523).1 Establishments engaged in selling primarily paint, glass, and wallpaper, or any combination of these lines, to the general public. Hardware Stores (SIC 525). Establishments primarily selling a number of basic hardware lines such as tools, builders' hardware, paint and glass, housewares and house-hold appliances, cutlery, and roofing materials, no one of which accounts for 50 percent or more of the sales of the establishments. Retail Nurseries, Lawn and Garden Supply Stores (SIC 526).1 Establishments primarily engaged in selling trees, shrubs, other plants, seeds, bulbs, mulches, soil conditioners, fertilizers, pesticides, garden tools, and other garden supplies to the general public. These establishments primarily sell products purchased from others, but may sell some plants which they grow themselves. Mobile Home Dealers (SIC 527).1 Establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of new and used mobile homes, including parts and accessories. Automotive Dealers (SIC Major Group 55, excluding 554). This major group includes retail dealers selling new and used automobiles, boats, recreational trailers, and motorcycles; and those selling new automobile parts and accessories. Automobile repair shops maintained by the establishments engaged in the sale of new automobiles are also included. Motor Vehicle Dealers-New and Used (SIC 551). Establishments primarily engaged in the sale of new automobiles or new and used foreign or domestic automobiles. These establishments frequently maintain repair departments and used car lots and carry stocks of replacement parts, tires, batteries, and automotive accessories.

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Used car lots and repair departments operated by franchised new passenger car dealers are not considered separate locations. Motor Vehicle Dealers-Used Only (SIC 552).1 Establishments primarily selling used cars and not holding a franchise for the sale of new cars. Auto and Home supply Stores (SIC 553). Establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of automobile tires, batteries, and other automobile parts and accessories. These establishments frequently sell additional lines of merchandise such as household appliances, radios and television sets, sporting goods, housewares, and hardware. Boat Dealers (SIC 555).1 Establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of new and used motorboats and other watercraft, including parts accessories, marine supplies, and outboard motors. Recreational Vehicle Dealers (SIC 556).1 Establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of new and used recreational trailers, campers (pickup coaches), and other trailers for passenger automobiles, and motor homes, including parts and accessories. Motorcycle Dealers (SIC 557).1 Establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of new and used motorcycles and motor scooters, including parts and accessories. Automotive Dealers, Not Elsewhere Classified (SIC 559).1 Establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of new and used automotive vehicles, such as snowmobiles, dunebuggies, gocarts, aircraft, utility trailers, and new automotive equipment and supplies, not elsewhere classified. Furniture Group and Equipment Stores (SIC Major Group 57). This major group includes retail stores selling goods used for furnishing the home, such as furniture, floor coverings, draperies, glassware and china, domestic stoves, refrigerators, and other household appliances and electronics. Furniture Stores (SIC 5712). Establishments primarily selling household furniture, beds, mattresses, springs, and other sleep equipment. Also included in this classification are establishments selling household appliances, phonographs, radio and TV sets, and floor coverings, provided the receipts from sales of furniture and sleep equipment exceed those from sales of other merchandise. Floor Coverings Stores (SIC 5713). Establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of floor coverings and related products. Drapery, Curtain, and Upholstery Stores (SIC 5714).1 Establishments primarily selling draperies, curtains, slipcovers, and upholstery materials. Establishments primarily selling custom made draperies and slipcovers for household use also are included. Miscellaneous Home Furnishing Stores (SIC 5719).1 Establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of miscellaneous home furnishing, such as china, glassware, and metalware for kitchen and table use, bedding and linen, brooms, brushes, lamps and shades, mirrors and pictures, venetian blinds, window shades, and fireplace accessories. Household Appliance Stores (SIC 5722). Establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of electric and gas refrigerators, stoves, and other household appliances, such as electric irons, percolators, hot plates, and vacuum cleaners. Many such stores also sell radio and television sets. Retail stores operated by public utility companies and primarily engaged in the sale of electric and gas appliances for household use are classified here.

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

619

Radio, Television, and Electronics Stores (SIC 5731). Establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale and installation of radios, televisions, record players, sound reproducing equipment and home computers. Such establishments also may sell additional lines, such as household appliances, musical instruments, or records. Computer and Computer Software Stores (SIC 5734). Establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of computers, computer peripheral equipment, and software. Music Stores (SIC 5735 + 5736).1 Establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of musical instruments, phonograph records and albums, sheet music, and similar musical supplies. Miscellaneous Durable Goods Stores (SIC Major Group 59 part). This includes all retail durable goods stores not elsewhere classified. Used Merchandise Stores (SIC 593).1 This industry includes stores primarily engaged in the retail sale of used merchandise, antiques, and secondhand goods such as clothing and shoes; furniture; books and rare manuscripts; musical instruments; office furniture, phonographs and phonograph records. and store fixtures and equipment. This industry also includes pawnshops. Sporting Goods Stores and Bicycle Shops (SIC 5941). Establishments primarily selling a general or a specialized line of sporting goods and equipment for hunting, camping, fishing, skiing, riding, tennis, golf, and other sports; bicycles, bicycle parts and accessories; and gymnasium and playground equipment. Book Stores (SIC 5942). Establishments primarily selling new books and periodicals. Stationery and related items may also be sold. Jewelry Stores (SIC 5944). Establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of any combination of the lines of jewelry, such as diamonds and other precious stones; rings, bracelets, and brooches; sterling and plated silverware; and watches and clocks. Hobby, Toy, and Game Shops (SIC 5945).1 Establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of toys, games, crafts, hobby kits and supplies. Camera and Photographic Supple Stores (SIC 5946).1 Establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of cameras, film, and other photographic supplies and equipment. Excluded are establishments primarily engaged in finishing firms. Gift, Novelty, and Souvenir Shops (SIC 5947).1 Establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of combined lines of gifts and novelty merchandise, souvenirs, and miscellaneous small art goods such as greeting cards and holiday decorations. Luggage and Leather Goods Stores (SIC 5948).1 Establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of luggage, trunks, and leather goods. Optical Goods Stores (SIC 5995).1 Establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of eyeglasses and related optical goods. Excluded are establishments whose receipts are primarily from examining eyes and prescribing eyeglasses or contact lenses. Miscellaneous Retail Stores Not Elsewhere Classified (SIC 5999).1 Establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of specialized lines of merchandise such as collectors' items and supplies, artists' supplies, orthopedic and artificial limbs, drafting materials, typewriters, telephones, pets, religious goods, hearing aids, rubber stamps, monuments and tombstones, and other merchandise not elsewhere classified.

620

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

Nondurable Goods General Merchandise Group Stores (SIC Major Group 53). This major group includes retail stores which sell a number of lines of merchandise, such as dry goods, apparel and accessories, furniture and home furnishings, small wares, hardware, and food. The stores included in this group are known as department stores, variety stores, general merchandise stores, general stores, etc. Department Stores (SIC 531). Establishments normally employing 50 people or more, having sales of apparel and soft goods combined amounting to 20 percent or more of total sales, and selling each of the following line of merchandise: • • •

Furniture, home furnishings, appliances, and radio and TV sets. A general line of apparel for the family. Household linens and dry goods.

To qualify as a department store, sales of each of the lines listed above must be less than 80 percent of total store sales. An establishment with total sales of $10 million or more is classified as a department store even if sales of one of the merchandise lines listed above exceed the maximum percent of total sales, provided that the combined sales of the other two groups are $1 million or more. Department store sales have been separately presented for the following classifications: • •

Department stores (incl. leased depts), and Department stores (excl. leased depts.).

Department stores (incl. Leased depts.) are subcategorized as shown below: Conventional Department Stores (SIC 531 part). Establishments which satisfy the criteria of a department store and: • Usually provide check-out service and customer assistance (salespersons) within each department. • May have a catalog order desk. • Are not affiliated with a company which operates similar establishments on a national basis. • These stores often sell: • • •

Soft goods and hard goods which are primarily nationally advertised brands. Appliances which are serviced by another company. Limited lines of merchandise through seasonal or special catalogs.

Discount Department Stores (SIC 531 part). Establishments which satisfy the criteria of a department store and usually: • • • •

Convey the image of a high-volume, fast turnover outlet selling a variety of merchandise for less than conventional prices. Provide centralized check-out service. Do not provide customer assistance within store departments. Merchandise is normally sold through selfservice with minimal assistance provided in any department. Do not have a catalog order desk.

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

621

These stores often sell: • • •

Soft goods which are usually their own corporate brands or are unbranded. Hard goods which are primarily nationally advertised brands. Appliances which are serviced by another company.

National Chain Department Stores (SIC 531 part). Establishment which satisfy the criteria of a department store and: • • •

Usually provide check-out service and customer assistance (salespersons) within each department. May have a catalog order desk Are affiliated with a company which operates similar establishments on a national basis.

These stores often sell: • •

Soft goods and hard goods which are their own corporate brands or are unbranded. Appliances which are serviced by their own company.

Variety Stores (SIC 533). Establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of a variety of merchandise in the low and popular price ranges. Sales usually are made on a cash-and-carry basis with the open selling method of display and customer selection of merchandise. These stores generally do not carry a complete line of merchandise, are not departmentalized, do not carry their own charge service, and do not deliver merchandise. Miscellaneous General Merchandise Stores (SIC 539). Establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of a general line of apparel, dry goods, hardware, homewares or home furnishings, groceries, and other lines in limited amounts. Stores selling commodities covered in the definition for department stores, but normally having less than 50 employees, and stores usually known as catalog showrooms, country general stores, or warehouse clubs are included here. Also included in this classification are establishments whose sales of apparel or of furniture and home furnishings exceed half of their total sales providing that sales of the smaller of the two lines in combination with dry goods and household linens accounts for 20 percent or more of total sales. Food Group Stores (SIC Major Group 54). This major group includes retail stores primarily engaged in selling food for home preparation and consumption. Grocery Stores (SIC 541). Establishments primarily selling (1) a wide variety of canned or frozen foods, such as vegetables, fruits, and soups; (2) dry groceries, either packaged or in bulk, such as tea, coffee, cocoa, dried fruits, spices, sugar, flour and crackers; and (3) other processed foods and nonedible grocery items. In addition, these establishments often sell smoked and prepared meats, fresh fish and poultry, fresh vegetable and fruits, and fresh or frozen meats. Establishments commonly known as supermarkets, food stores, convenience stores, and delicatessens are included in this classification if receipts from sales of groceries and food items for off-premise preparation and consumption are 50 percent or more of total sales. Meat and Fish (Seafood) Markets, Including Freezer Provisioners (SIC 542). Establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of fresh, frozen, or cured meats, fish, shellfish, and other seafood. Frequently these establishments also sell poultry, dairy products, eggs, some groceries, and items commonly use in preparing seafood or consumed with seafood. Fruit Stores and Vegetable Markets (SIC 543).1 Establishments primarily selling fresh fruits and fresh vegetables. These establishments frequently carry a limited line of grocery items. Roadside stands of farmers selling only their own produce are not included.

622

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

Candy, Nut, and Confectionery Stores (SIC 544).1 Establishments primarily selling candy, nuts, sweetmeats, and other confections. A soda fountain or lunch counter is frequently operated in these stores. Also included are candy and popcorn stands located in motion picture theaters. Dairy Products Stores (SIC 545).1 Establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of dairy products, such as milk, cream, butter, cheese, and related products, to over-the-counter customers. Retail Bakeries (SIC 546). Establishments primarily engaged in the over-the-counter retail sale of bakery products such as bread, cakes, pies, or cookies, all or some of which may be baked on the premises. Other Miscellaneous Food Stores (SIC 549).1 Establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of specialized foods, not elsewhere classified, such as eggs and poultry, health foods, spices, herbs, coffee, and tea. The poultry stores may sell live poultry, slaughter and clean poultry for their own account and sell dressed fowls, or sell fowl cleaned and dressed by others. Gasoline Service Stations (SIC 554). Establishments primarily selling gasoline and automotive lubricants. Usually these establishments also sell tires, batteries, and accessories, and perform minor repair work and services. Establishments called garages but deriving more than half of their receipts from the sale of gasoline and automotive lubricants and establishments known as truck stops which are primarily engaged in selling diesel fuel to truckers are also included. Convenience food stores deriving more than 50 percent of their sales from the sale of gasoline are classified as gasoline service stations. Apparel and Accessory Stores (SIC Major Group 56). Establishments in this major group are primarily engaged in selling clothing of all kinds and related articles for personal wear and adornment. Men's and Boys' Clothing Stores (SIC 561). Establishments primarily selling men's and boys' ready-to-wear clothing and furnishings. Women's Ready-to-Wear Stores (SIC 562). Establishments primarily selling women's and girls' ready-to-wear apparel. Women's Accessory and Specialty Stores (SIC 563).1 Establishments primarily selling a specialized line of women's and girls' apparel, such as furs, sportswear, beachwear, blouses, hosiery, millinery, foundation garments, lingerie, robes, and other intimate wear. Children's and Infants' Wear Stores SIC 564).1 Establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of children's and infants' clothing, furnishings, and accessories. Such establishments may specialize in either children's or infants' wear or they may sell a combination of children's and infants' wear. Family Clothing Stores (SIC 565). Establishments primarily selling clothing, furnishings, and accessories for men, women and children, without specializing in any one line. Shoe Stores (SIC 566). Establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of any one line, or a combination of the lines, of men's, women's, and children's footwear. These establishments frequently carry accessory lines such as hosiery, gloves, and handbags. Miscellaneous Apparel and Accessory Stores (SIC 569).1 Establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of specialized lines of apparel and accessories not elsewhere classified, such as uniforms, bathing suits, raincoats, riding apparel, sports apparel, umbrellas, wigs, and toupees. This industry also includes custom tailors primarily engaged in making and selling men's and women's clothing (except fur apparel SIC 563) to individual order.

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

623

Eating and Drinking Places (SIC Major Group 58). Establishments in this major group are primarily engaged in selling prepared foods and drinks for consumption on or near the premises and lunch counters and refreshment stands selling prepared foods and drinks for immediate consumption. Restaurants, Lunchrooms, Cafeterias, and Contract Feeding (SIC 5812 part). Restaurants and Lunchrooms.1 Establishments engaged in serving prepared food and beverages selected by the patron from a full menu. Waiter or waitress service is provided and the establishment has seating facilities for at least 15 patrons. These establishments often serve alcoholic beverages, but receipts from the sale of alcoholic beverages may not exceed the receipts from prepared food. Cafeterias.1 Establishments engaged in serving prepared food and beverages primarily through the use of a cafeteria line where customers serve themselves from displayed selections. Some limited waiter or waitress service may be provided. Table and/or booth seating facilities are usually provided. Contract Feeding.1 Establishments primarily engaged in providing food service under contract to another company; hospital; or governmental, penal, or educational institution. The facilities and personnel of these establishments may be provided by the contracting company, institutions, etc., however, the management is always supplied by the contractor. Social Caterers (SIC 5812 part).5 Establishments primarily engaged in serving prepared food and beverages for wedding, banquets, etc., on the premises or elsewhere. Such establishments also may arrange for some entertainment but this should be a minor part of the business. Refreshment Places, Ice Cream, and Frozen Custard Stands, (SIC 5812 part). Refreshment Places. 1 Establishments primarily selling limited lines of refreshments and prepared food items. Included in this group are establishments which prepare refreshment items such as pizza, barbecued chicken, and hamburgers for consumption either on or near the premises or for take-home consumption. Ice Cream and Frozen Custard Stands.1 Establishments primarily engaged in selling ice cream, frozen custard, or other frozen ices for consumption either on or near the premises. Take-home packages also may be provided for ice cream sold in bulk. Drinking Places (SIC 5813). Establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of drinks such as beer, ale, wine, liquor, and other alcoholic beverages for consumption on the premises. Prepared foods are frequently sold at these establishments, but receipts from the sale of prepared foods may not exceed receipts from sales of alcoholic beverages. Drug Stores and Proprietary Stores (SIC 591). Establishments engaged in the retail sale of prescription drugs and patent medicines and which may carry a number of related lines such as cosmetics, toiletries, tobacco, and novelty merchandise. Included are drug stores which also have a soda fountain or lunch counter. These stores are included on the basis of their usual trade designation rather than on the more strict interpretation of commodities handled. Liquor Stores (SIC 592). Establishments primarily selling packaged alcoholic beverages, such as ale, beer, wine and whiskey, for consumption off the premises. Liquor stores operated by States, counties, and municipalities are included. Miscellaneous Nondurable Goods Stores (SIC Major Group 59, part). This includes all retail nondurable goods stores not elsewhere classified.

624

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

Miscellaneous Shopping Goods Stores (SIC 594). Establishments engaged in the retail sale of one or more lines of merchandise similar to that found in department stores. Stationery Stores (SIC 5943).1 Establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of stationery, such as paper and paper products (including printing and engraving), post cards, novelties, and school and office supplies (excluding office furniture and machines). Sewing, Needlework, and Piece Goods Stores (SIC 5949).1 Establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of piece goods, notions, sewing and knitting supplies, fabrics, patterns, and other needlework accessories. Mail-Order Houses (Department Store Merchandise) (SIC 5961 part). Establishments with normally 50 or more employees primarily engaged in the retail sale by catalog and mail order of a general line of merchandise similar to that sold by department stores. Other Mail-Order Houses (SIC 5961 part). Establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of a specialized or limited line of merchandise such as food, automotive merchandise, apparel, books stationery, etc., by catalog and mail order. Automatic Merchandising Machine Operators (SIC 5962).1 Establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of products by means of automatic merchandising units (vending machines) which are generally located on the premises of other businesses. Those products include candy, nut and confectionery; milk and ice cream; other beverages; and tobacco products. Direct-Selling Operations (SIC 5963).1 Establishments primarily selling merchandise by house-to-house canvass, by party plan, by telephone, or from a truck. The merchandise includes building materials, hardware, and garden supplies; general merchandise, milk; other foods; apparel and accessories; furniture, home furnishings, and apparel and accessories; furniture, home furnishings, and equipment; mobile food service; and books and stationery. Fuel Oil Dealers (SIC 5983).1 Establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of fuel oil. Liquefied Petroleum Gas Dealers (SIC 5984).1 Establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of liquefied petroleum (LP) gas (bottled gas or in bulk). Fuel Dealers, Not Elsewhere Classified (SIC 5989).1 Establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of coal, coke, charcoal, wood, or any combination of these lines. Florists (SIC 5992).1 Establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of cut flowers and growing plants. Greenhouses and nurseries are included if receipts are primarily from the sale of products not grown on the premises. Cigar Stores and Stands (SIC 5993).1 Establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of cigars, cigarettes, tobacco, and smokers' supplies. Many of the establishments included in this classification are operated as concessions in places of amusement, railway stations, airports and other public places. News Dealers and Newsstands (SIC 5994).1 Establishments primarily engaged in the retail sale of newspapers, magazines, and other periodicals. Footnotes Data for this kind-of-business are not show separately but are included in U.S. and group totals

1.

Source: Monthly Retail Surveys Branch, U.S. Census Bureau | Last Revised: May 18, 2000

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

625

FOR WIRE TRANSMISION 8:30 A.M. ET., Friday, October 13, 2000 ADVANCE MONTHLY RETAIL SALES

September 2000 The Census Bureau of the Department of Commerce announced today that advance estimates of U.S. retail sales for September, adjusted for seasonal, holiday, and trading-day differences, but not for price changes, were $273.2 billion, an increase of 0.9 percent (±0.7%) from the previous month and up 7.6 percent (±0.9%) from September 1999. Total sales for the July through September period were up 7.6 percent (±0.7%) from the same period a year ago. The July to August 2000 percent change was revised from +0.2 percent (±0.7%) to +0.1 percent (±0.2%). Durable goods increased 0.9 percent (±1.4%) from August and were 5.5 percent above last year. Furniture sales were up 6.0 percent from September a year ago, while automotive sales were up 5.8 percent from last year. Nondurable goods increased 0.9 percent (±0.6%) from August and were up 9.1 percent from September 1999. Gasoline sales were up 16.9 percent from September a year ago, while drug store sales were up 11.9 percent from last year. The advance estimates are based on a small subsample of the Bureau's full retail sales sample. Estimates from the advance and the subsequent full survey can differ because of the earlier reporting in the advance and because of sampling variability present in both surveys.

I.

Percent Change in Retail Sales (Data adjusted for seasonal, holiday, and trading-day differences, but not for price changes)

626

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

The Advance Monthly Retail Sales Report for October is scheduled to be released November 14, 2000 at 8:30 a.m. Address inquiries concerning this report to Scott Scheleur, Service Sector Statistics Division, Bureau of the Census, Washington, D.C. 20233. Telephone: (301) 457-2713 or (301) 457-2666. This report is available the day of issue through the Department of Commerce's online Economic Bulletin Board. For information call (202) 482-1986.

Estimated Advance Monthly Retail Sales – July - September 2000 Adjusted for Seasonal, Holiday and Trading-day Differences (in millions of dollars)

SIC Code

Kind of Business

Sep. 2000 Adv. RETAIL SALES, TOTAL 273,237 TOTAL, EXCL. AUTOMOTIVE GROUP 205,340 DURABLE GOODS, TOTAL 112,462 52 BUILDING MATERIALS, HARDWARE, MOBILE HOME DEALERS 15,208 521,3,5 BUILDING MATERIALS,SUPPLY STORES, HARDWARE (*) 525 HARDWARE STORES (*) 55 EX 554 AUTOMOTIVE GROUP 67,897 551,2,5,6,7,9 MOTOR VEHICLE & MISCELLANEOUS AUTO DEALERS 64,272 551 MOTOR VEHICLE DEALERS - NEW AND USED (*) 553 AUTO & HOME SUPPLY STORES (*) 57 FURNITURE GROUP STORES 14,644 571 FURNITURE & HOME FURNISHINGS STORES (*) 5722,31,44 HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCE, RADIO, TV & COMPUTER STORES (*) 5722 HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCE STORES (*) NONDURABLE GOODS, TOTAL 160,775 53 GENERAL MERCHANDISE GROUP STORES 34,323 531 DEPT. STORES (EXCL. LEASED DEPTS.) 26,690 531 DEPT. STORES (INCL. LEASED DEPTS.) (*) 533 VARIETY STORES (*) 539 MISCELLANEOUS GENERAL MERCHANDISE STORES (*) 54 FOOD GROUP STORES 40,468 541 GROCERY STORES 38,325 554 GASOLINE SERVICE STATIONS 18,544 56 APPAREL & ACCESSORY STORES 11,915 561 MEN'S & BOYS' CLOTHING, FURNISHINGS (*) 562,3 WOMEN'S CLOTHING SPECIALTY STORES (*) 565 FAMILY CLOTHING STORES (*) 566 SHOE STORES (*) 58 EATING AND DRINKING PLACES 25,841 591 DRUG & PROPRIETARY STORES 11,360 592 LIQUOR STORES (*) 5961 TOTAL MAIL ORDER (3) (*) 53,56,57,594 GAF, TOTAL (4) (*)

Aug. 2000 Prelim. 270,854 203,908 111,441 15,309 12,106 1,320 66,946 63,384 (na) 3,562 14,523 7,050 6,400 (na) 159,413 34,243 26,584 27,024 1,394 6,265 40,338 38,196 18,169 11,871 943 3,334 (na) 1,814 25,577 11,238 2,570 9,292 70,182

( * ) Advance estimates are not available from the subsample panel for these kinds of businesses. (na) Not available. ( r ) Revised.

Jul. 2000 Final 270,645 203,411 111,700 15,259 12,084 1,309 67,234 63,700 (na) 3,534 14,437 7,033 6,335 (na) 158,945 34,154 26,444 26,898 1,378 6,332 40,373 38,218 18,454 11,702 952 3,271 (na) 1,791 25,698 11,072 2,546 9,073 69,901

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

627

Monthly Retail Sales - September and August 1999 Adjusted for Seasonal, Holiday and Trading-day Differences (in millions of dollars)

SIC Code

Kind of Business

Sept. Aug. 1999 ( r ) 1999 ( r ) RETAIL TRADE, TOTAL 253,992 253,458 TOTAL, EXCL. AUTOMOTIVE GROUP 189,847 188,532 DURABLE GOODS, TOTAL 106,616 107,252 52 BUILDING MATERIALS, HARDWARE, MOBILE HOME DEALERS 14,746 14,996 521,3 BUILDING MATERIALS,SUPPLY STORES, HARDWARE 11,386 11,646 525 HARDWARE STORES 1,290 1,301 55 EX 554 AUTOMOTIVE GROUP 64,145 64,926 551,2,5,6,7,9 MOTOR VEHICLE & MISCELLANEOUS AUTO DEALERS 60,804 61,581 551 MOTOR VEHICLE DEALERS - NEW AND USED (na) (na) 553 AUTO & HOME SUPPLY STORES 3,341 3,345 57 FURNITURE GROUP STORES 13,821 13,637 571 FURNITURE & HOME FURNISHINGS STORES 6,628 6,557 5722,31,44 HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCE, RADIO, TV & COMPUTER STORES 6,129 6,031 5722 HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCE STORES (na) (na) NONDURABLE GOODS, TOTAL 147,376 146,206 53 GENERAL MERCHANDISE GROUP STORES 31,935 31,709 531 DEPT. STORES (EXCL. LEASED DEPTS.) 24,980 24,776 531 DEPT. STORES (INCL. LEASED DEPTS.) 25,485 25,232 533 VARIETY STORES 1,217 1,206 539 MISCELLANEOUS GENERAL MERCHANDISE STORES 5,738 5,727 54 FOOD GROUP STORES 38,640 38,114 541 GROCERY STORES 36,679 36,183 554 GASOLINE SERVICE STATIONS 15,859 15,652 56 APPAREL & ACCESSORY STORES 11,277 11,360 561 MEN'S & BOYS' CLOTHING, FURNISHINGS 911 927 562,3 WOMEN'S CLOTHING SPECIALTY STORES 3,006 3,071 565 FAMILY CLOTHING STORES (na) (na) 566 SHOE STORES 1,785 1,801 58 EATING AND DRINKING PLACES 24,022 23,859 591 DRUG & PROPRIETARY STORES 10,156 10,108 592 LIQUOR STORES 2,370 2,331 5961 TOTAL MAIL ORDER (3) 7,746 7,726 53,56,57,594 GAF, TOTAL (4) 65,917 65,491 ( * ) Advance estimates are not available from the subsample panel for these kinds of businesses. (na) Not available. ( r ) Revised.

628

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

Estimated Advance Monthly Retail Sales - July - September 2000 Not Adjusted for Seasonal, Holiday and Trading-day Differences (in millions of dollars)

SIC Code

Kind of Business

Sep. 2000 Aug. 2000 Adv. Prelim. RETAIL SALES, TOTAL 264,568 279,668 TOTAL, EXCL. AUTOMOTIVE GROUP 198,052 206,967 DURABLE GOODS, TOTAL 109,090 118,093 52 BUILDING MATERIALS, HARDWARE, MOBILE HOME DEALERS 15,451 16,437 521,3,5 BUILDING MATERIALS,SUPPLY STORES, HARDWARE (*) 13,208 525 HARDWARE STORES (*) 1,370 55 EX 554 AUTOMOTIVE GROUP 66,516 72,701 551,2,5,6,7,9 MOTOR VEHICLE & MISCELLANEOUS AUTO DEALERS 62,858 68,772 551 MOTOR VEHICLE DEALERS - NEW AND USED (*) 58,711 553 AUTO & HOME SUPPLY STORES (*) 3,929 57 FURNITURE GROUP STORES 14,073 14,644 571 FURNITURE & HOME FURNISHINGS STORES (*) 7,247 5722,31,44 HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCE, RADIO, TV & COMPUTER STORES (*) 6,326 5722 HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCE STORES (*) 1,064 NONDURABLE GOODS, TOTAL 155,478 161,575 53 GENERAL MERCHANDISE GROUP STORES 31,173 33,516 531 DEPT. STORES (EXCL. LEASED DEPTS.) 24,181 25,973 531 DEPT. STORES (INCL. LEASED DEPTS.) (*) 26,445 533 VARIETY STORES (*) 1,334 539 MISCELLANEOUS GENERAL MERCHANDISE STORES (*) 6,209 54 FOOD GROUP STORES 40,056 41,221 541 GROCERY STORES 38,018 39,113 554 GASOLINE SERVICE STATIONS 18,804 19,386 56 APPAREL & ACCESSORY STORES 11,522 12,845 561 MEN'S & BOYS' CLOTHING, FURNISHINGS (*) 945 562,3 WOMEN'S CLOTHING SPECIALTY STORES (*) 3,297 565 FAMILY CLOTHING STORES (*) 4,982 566 SHOE STORES (*) 2,251 58 EATING AND DRINKING PLACES 25,634 26,702 591 DRUG & PROPRIETARY STORES 10,826 11,058 592 LIQUOR STORES (*) 2,578 5961 TOTAL MAIL ORDER (3) (*) 8,772 53,56,57,594 GAF, TOTAL (4) (*) 70,168 ( * ) Advance estimates are not available from the subsample panel for these kinds of businesses. (na) Not available. ( r ) Revised.

Jul-00 Final 267,893 199,849 111,652 16,267 13,014 1,381 68,044 64,337 54,506 3,707 13,679 6,885 5,879 1,007 156,241 31,556 24,196 24,632 1,275 6,085 41,604 39,479 19,561 10,839 858 2,967 4,267 1,764 26,932 10,607 2,612 7,748 64,423

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

629

Nine-Month Change in Monthly Retail Sales - September 2000 Not Adjusted for Seasonal, Holiday and Trading-day Differences (in millions of dollars)

9 Month Total:

SIC Code

Kind of Business RETAIL TRADE, TOTAL TOTAL, EXCL. AUTOMOTIVE GROUP DURABLE GOODS, TOTAL 52 BUILDING MATERIALS, HARDWARE, MOBILE HOME DEALERS 521,3 BUILDING MATERIALS,SUPPLY STORES, HARDWARE 525 HARDWARE STORES 55 EX 554 AUTOMOTIVE GROUP 551,2,5,6,7,9 MOTOR VEHICLE & MISCELLANEOUS AUTO DEALERS 551 MOTOR VEHICLE DEALERS - NEW AND USED 553 AUTO & HOME SUPPLY STORES 57 FURNITURE GROUP STORES 571 FURNITURE & HOME FURNISHINGS STORES 5722,31,44 HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCE, RADIO, TV & COMPUTER STORES 5722 HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCE STORES NONDURABLE GOODS, TOTAL 53 GENERAL MERCHANDISE GROUP STORES 531 DEPT. STORES (EXCL. LEASED DEPTS.) 531 DEPT. STORES (INCL. LEASED DEPTS.) 533 VARIETY STORES 539 MISCELLANEOUS GENERAL MERCHANDISE STORES 54 FOOD GROUP STORES 541 GROCERY STORES 554 GASOLINE SERVICE STATIONS 56 APPAREL & ACCESSORY STORES 561 MEN'S & BOYS' CLOTHING, FURNISHINGS 562,3 WOMEN'S CLOTHING SPECIALTY STORES 565 FAMILY CLOTHING STORES 566 SHOE STORES 58 EATING AND DRINKING PLACES 591 DRUG & PROPRIETARY STORES 592 LIQUOR STORES 5961 TOTAL MAIL ORDER (3) 53,56,57,594 GAF, TOTAL (4)

2000 2,375,740 1,755,680 1,005,320 140,504 (*) (*) 620,060 588,215 (*) (*) 124,054 (*) (*) (*) 1,370,420 277,404 214,640 (*) (*) (*) 358,021 339,546 162,834 98,092 (*) (*) (*) (*) 230,068 96,002 (*) (*) (*)

Change from 1999 9.3 9.4 8.3 3.8 (*) (*) 8.9 9.1 (*) (*) 9.3 (*) (*) (*) 10.0 8.0 7.2 (*) (*) (*) 6.2 6.0 23.1 5.1 (*) (*) (*) (*) 8.5 9.5 (*) (*) (*)

( * ) Advance estimates are not available from the subsample panel for these kinds of businesses. (na) Not available. ( r ) Revised.

630

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

Percent Change in Advance Monthly Retail Sales - September 2000 Adjusted for Seasonal, Holiday and Trading-day Differences (percent change)

SIC Code

52

Kind of Business

Sept. 2000-

Aug. 2000-

Adv. From:

Prelim. From:

Aug.

Sep.

July

Aug.

2000

1999

2000

1999

Prelim. Final

Final

Final 6.9

RETAIL TRADE, TOTAL

0.9

7.6

0.1

TOTAL, EXCL. AUTOMOTIVE GROUP

0.7

8.2

0.2

8.2

0.9

5.5

-0.2

3.9

-0.7

3.1

0.3

2.1

DURABLE GOODS, TOTAL BUILDING MATERIALS, HARDWARE, MOBILE HOME DEALERS

55 EX 554

AUTOMOTIVE GROUP

1.4

5.8

-0.4

3.1

551,2,5,6,7,9

MOTOR VEHICLE & MISCELLANEOUS AUTO DEALERS

1.4

5.7

-0.5

2.9

57

FURNITURE GROUP STORES

0.8

6.0

0.6

6.5

NONDURABLE GOODS, TOTAL

0.9

9.1

0.3

9.0

53

GENERAL MERCHANDISE GROUP STORES

0.2

7.5

0.3

8.0

531

DEPT. STORES (EXCL. LEASED DEPTS.)

0.4

6.8

0.5

7.3

531

DEPT. STORES (INCL. LEASED DEPTS.)

(na)

(na)

0.5

7.1

54

FOOD GROUP STORES

0.3

4.7

-0.1

5.8

541

GROCERY STORES

0.3

4.5

-0.1

5.6

554

GASOLINE SERVICE STATIONS

2.1

16.9

-1.5

16.1

56

APPAREL & ACCESSORY STORES

0.4

5.7

1.4

4.5

58

EATING AND DRINKING PLACES

1.0

7.6

-0.5

7.2

591

DRUG & PROPRIETARY STORES

1.1

11.9

1.5

11.2

SOURCE: Advance Monthly Retail Sales - September 2000 (Press Release available without charge from Public Info. Office, Bureau of the Census, Washington, D.C. 20233). Survey methodology and measures of sampling variability are documented in the Advance Press Release. (na) Not available.

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

631

Percent Change in Advance Monthly Retail Sales - September 2000 Not Adjusted for Seasonal, Holiday and Trading-day Differences (percent change)

SIC Code

52

Kind of Business

Sept. 2000-

Aug. 2000-

Adv. From:

Prelim. From:

Aug.

Sep.

July

Aug.

2000

1999

2000

1999

Prelim. Final

Final

Final 8.9

RETAIL TRADE, TOTAL

-5.4

7.6

4.4

TOTAL, EXCL. AUTOMOTIVE GROUP

-4.3

8.5

3.6

9.7

-7.6

4.8

5.8

6.7

-6.0

1.2

1.0

4.4

DURABLE GOODS, TOTAL BUILDING MATERIALS, HARDWARE, MOBILE HOME DEALERS

55 EX 554

AUTOMOTIVE GROUP

-8.5

5.1

6.9

6.5

551,2,5,6,7,9

MOTOR VEHICLE & MISCELLANEOUS AUTO DEALERS

-8.6

5.0

6.9

6.5

57

FURNITURE GROUP STORES

-3.9

6.2

7.1

8.5

NONDURABLE GOODS, TOTAL

-3.8

9.7

3.4

10.5

53

GENERAL MERCHANDISE GROUP STORES

-7.0

7.2

6.2

9.3

531

DEPT. STORES (EXCL. LEASED DEPTS.)

-6.9

7.0

7.3

8.4

531

DEPT. STORES (INCL. LEASED DEPTS.)

(na)

(na)

7.4

8.3

54

FOOD GROUP STORES

-2.8

5.5

-0.9

7.8

541

GROCERY STORES

-2.8

5.2

-0.9

7.6

554

GASOLINE SERVICE STATIONS

-3.0

18.0

-0.9

16.6

56

APPAREL & ACCESSORY STORES

-10.3

7.1

18.5

6.8

58

EATING AND DRINKING PLACES

-4.0

9.3

-0.9

7.4

591

DRUG & PROPRIETARY STORES

-2.1

11.9

4.3

13.0

SOURCE: Advance Monthly Retail Sales - September 2000 (Press Release available without charge from Public Info. Office, Bureau of the Census, Washington, D.C. 20233). Survey methodology and measures of sampling variability are documented in the Advance Press Release. (na) Not available.

632

Plunkett’s Retail Industry Almanac 1999-2000

Reliability of Data The Advance estimates are based on a small subsample of the Bureau's full retail sales sample. Estimates from the Advance and the subsequent full survey can differ because of the earlier reporting in the Advance and because of sampling variability present in each survey. The margin of sampling error, as used on page 1, gives a range about the estimate which is a 90% confidence interval. If, for example, the trend estimate is +1.2% and the standard error is 0.9%, then the margin of sampling error is +/- 1.65 x 0.9% or +/- 1.5%, and the 90% confidence interval is -0.3% to +2.7%. If the interval contains 0, it is uncertain whether there was an increase or decrease. For monthly level, the coefficient of variation (CV) is given. The resulting confidence interval is the estimated value +/- 1.65 x CV x (the estimated value). Estimates of sampling are based on two components. The first component is a measure of the average difference between the Advance and the Preliminary estimates. The second reflects the variability of the Preliminary estimate. Additionally, both the Advance and the full survey are subject to nonsampling errors. Such errors can occur because of nonresponse, insufficient coverage of the universe of retail businesses, and response errors, among others. Precautionary steps are taken to minimize these errors, but their magnitude is not directly measured. Preliminary estimates for the current month and final estimates for the previous month based on the full sample are published next month in the Monthly Retail Trade Report. This report will provide sales estimates in greater detail and additional measures of sampling variability. It will also present a description of revisions and the techniques used in developing the estimates, and an explanation of confidence intervals and sampling variability (Appendix B, Reliability of Data). Measures of Variability of and Revision to Advance Estimates for Level and Trend Trend (% change)

Revision for month-

1

SIC Code

Kind of Business

Level of sales Est. standard error for to-month change2 Est. CV1 for Current Mo. Current Qtr. Current Mo. Median Current Mo. to to to Current Average Absolute (x100) to Prev. Mo. to Prev. Qtr. Mo. Last Yr. Revision Revision

Retail trade, total

1.0

0.4

0.3

0.6

0.2

0.3

Total, excl. auto dealers Durable goods, total

1.0 1.4

0.6 0.9

0.3 0.6

0.7 1.1

0.2 0.2

0.3 0.5

52 55 ex. 554 551,2,5,6,7,9 57

Building materials group stores Automotive dealers Motor vehicle and misc. auto. dealers Furniture, home furn. & equip. stores Nondurable goods, total

3.5 1.6 1.8 2.0 1.1

1.9 1.2 1.3 1.4 0.4

1.1 0.8 0.9 0.7 0.2

2.7 1.5 1.6 1.8 0.5

0.1 0.2 0.2 0.4 0.2

1.4 0.5 0.5 0.9 0.3

53 531 54 541 554 56 58 591

General merch. Group, total Dept. stores, ex. Leased depts. Food stores Grocery stores Gasoline service stations Apparel and accessory stores Eating and drinking places Drug and proprietary stores

0.6 0.4 1.2 1.2 2.2 1.9 5.1 1.7

0.6 0.5 0.2 0.2 1.2 1.5 1.0 0.8

0.2 0.1 0.3 0.3 1.4 0.6 0.9 0.4

0.6 0.4 0.6 0.6 1.4 1.6 2.2 1.2

0.0 0.0 0.0 -0.1 0.3 0.1 0.3 0.2

0.2 0.1 0.5 0.5 1.0 0.7 0.4 0.6

1) The coefficients of variation (CVs) for level of sales and the standard errors for trends are medians based on estimates for the preceding 12 months. 2) These columns measure the difference between the Advance/Preliminary ratio and the Preliminary/Final ratio estimates, i.e. the difference between estimates of trend for the same pair of data months. The revisions for retail trade total are based on the latest 12 months of data. SOURCE: U.S. Census Bureau, Service Sector Statistics Division