Retail

Analysts say it could be a perfect fit. French luxury group PPR has made a buyout offer to add German sportswear maker Puma to a retail collection that includes Gucci and Yves Saint Laurent — and Puma is happy to accept.

A national Internet database being launched on Monday will help retailers defend their products against in-store theft. Jeff Tyler looks at the hidden costs consumers pay for shoplifters.

Uncle Ben, of instant rice fame, isn't just Uncle Ben anymore. In a new marketing campaign, he's now chairman of the board. Amy Scott reports that the makeover is getting mixed reviews.

Burger King says it's going to start getting eggs from free-range hens and pork from free-range pigs. Trouble is, there isn't enough free-range stuff to go around. Alisa Roth reports.

The once high-flying Circuit City chain announced a major restructuring plan. It will replace more than 3,000 employees with people who'll work for less. Amy Scott reports.

While auto makers are having trouble selling their cars, the Ferrari has the unique problem of having too many customers to satisfy. Kai Ryssdal explores the problem in a Ferrari 599 with car critic Dan Neil.

The Supreme Court hears a case today that could change the rules of retail. It'll decide whether manufacturers or stores have the right to set the minimum price of products we buy.

Borders Books — struggling against Barnes & Noble, Amazon.com, and even Costco — plans to do more business on the Web. Alisa Roth reports.

Wal-Mart says it wants a limited banking license so it can save on credit card payments. But a congressman thinks he's found evidence that the retail giant has something bigger in mind. Hillary Wicai reports.

Wal-Mart is trying to improve employee scheduling by using something called labor optimization software. But, as Ashley Milne-Tyte reports, it's not always optimized <em>for</em> labor.