NEW HYDE PARK, NY-Kimco closes on the $920-million purchase of 18 centers from a fund operated by Crow Holdings.

NEW YORK CITY-Cowen and Co. upgrades Bebe to outperform due to square footage growth, product extensions and other initiatives.

SAN FRANCISCO-Pressler leaves the company amid tough sales results and is slated to get up to $14 million in total compensation.

FRAMINGHAM, MA-Staples follows Wal-Mart and inks a joint-venture deal to open stores in India.

NEW YORK CITY-Smaller retailers can compete with larger players if they affiliate, renovate and work with their vendors, NRF speaker says.

NEW YORK CITY-Retailers look beyond just selling their products in physical stores today, as customers demand more channels.

NEW YORK CITY-The restaurant company is offering about $64.4 million, or $7.50 per share, for the 20-unit steakhouse operator.

NEW YORK CITY-Retail sales are predicted to increase 4.8% this year, down from a 6.3% gain in 2006.