JC Penney is as iconic as American department store brands come. Since the early 20th century, it has been a reliable source for back-to-school outfits, office uniforms, underwear, and socks – all the basics. However, few would use the term "high fashion" to characterize the brand. But if JC Penney has its way, that is going to change, and soon.

Chairman and Chief Executive Myron E. Ullman made the brand's intentions clear after the store posted very positive Q4 results: "We intend to expand our market share. This means we work to increase visits and spending from our existing customers as well as find ways to reach new ones." He added that JC Penney would not reach these new customers by further discounting, but instead by expanding its exclusive lines: "Our focus for [2010] is driving top-line growth."Continue reading...

They may hate being a singular entity as “the Olsen Twins,” but those two sure are busy as one, fresh from launching a long-awaited eyewear line.

Their newest endeavor is a diffusion line with JC Penney called Olsenboye. A limited-edition preview of the juniors line will come out on November 6 at 50 locations, before launching for real in February to 600 stores. The collection includes denim, bottoms, skirts, shorts, tops, dresses, jackets, shoes, and handbags with prices ranging from $20-50.

To drum up excitement for Olsenboye, the mini moguls sent a truck to cruise around New York this past Monday selling merchandise and handing out balloons, pins, and cupcakes. Cupcakes? Everyone loves cupcakes. What a genius business plan.Continue reading...

Android operating system woos major cellphone makers away from competition. [NY Times]

Can Verizon's Droid dethrone the iPhone? [Ad Age]

HTC smartphone launches big campaign in UK and US. [Brand Republic]

Ford rises above wounded competitors, gains 5% market share. [WSJ]

GM and Chrysler upend marketing strategies. [FT]

"Smart Choices" food label program has been suspended by the FDA. [Chicago Tribune]

Disney issues refunds for "Baby Einstein" products. [NY Times]

Movie studios begin to divulge plans for DVD alternatives. [NY Times]

Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen launch juniors line available at JC Penney. [WWD]

(More headlines: Eisner's web studion, Heineken, VW.)Continue reading...