CINCINNATI (FOX19) - Macy’s, Inc. Thursday reported total sales of $4.925 billion for the five weeks ended Dec. 31, 2011, an increase of 6.6 percent compared with total sales of $4.618 billion in the five weeks ended Jan. 1, 2011.  On a same-store basis, Macy’s, Inc. sales were up 6.2 percent in December.  Same-store sales for the combined November/December holiday selling period were up 5.7 percent.  (Same-store sales are used to provide apples-to-apples comparison from period to period.)

“December sales continued very strong at Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s, and we are solidly on track to exceed our expectations for same-store sales in the fourth quarter. Our ongoing success reflects our exceptionally talented organization, which has implemented our key strategies at a very high level in spite of weak macroeconomic conditions,” said Terry J. Lundgren, chairman, president and chief executive officer of Macy’s, Inc.

CINCINNATI (FOX19) - The Banks master development team of Carter and The Dawson Company and equity partner USAA announced Wednesday that The Wine Guy Wine Shop & Bistro will locate at The Banks. 

The Wine Guy, Craig Decker, will expand his hugely popular wine bar and shop concept into a 6,416 square-foot space located on the South side of Freedom Way.  Voted the Best New Restaurant and the Best Wine Shop by several Columbus magazines, The Wine Guy will now offer its entertaining and educational wine experience to patrons of The Banks.  This includes the ability to sample wines while browsing the shop’s selections and nibbling on tapas from the Bistro. 

Decker describes the concept as “Old World Chic.”  “We provide a comfortable setting where you can eat, drink, learn and take something home.  Our expert staff can assist you in your wine selections.

CINCINNATI (FOX19) - The Rookwood Pottery Co.’s Annual Holiday Trunk Show and Open House is this weekend through Dec. 11th, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Rookwood Pottery studios at 1920 Race St. in Over‐the-Rhine

Shoppers can experience the Rookwood revival, and visit the talented artists of Rookwood Pottery and see firsthand everything Rookwood has to offer, from its new Christmas line (the first in 50 years) to commemorative tiles, architectural tiles and one-of‐a‐kind art pottery.

In addition, Rookwood Pottery will be offering items not available on its online boutique at www.rookwood.com.  Tours of the facility and refreshments will be offered.

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