Big Lots conducts going-out-of-business sales after sale of company falls through

NEW YORK (AP) — Discount chain Big Lots is conducting going-out-of-business sales at its remaining locations after a sale of the company didn't materialize. The Columbus, Ohio-based retailer, which sells furniture, home decor and other items, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy...

Starbucks workers begin strikes that could spread to hundreds of US stores by Christmas Eve

Workers at Starbucks stores began a five-day strike Friday to protest lack of progress in contract negotiations with the company. The strikes by baristas and other workers were scheduled to take place in Los Angeles, Chicago and Seattle and could spread to hundreds of stores across...

Next Week: Retail sales, newly constructed homes, unemployment benefit claims

A look at some of the key business events and economic indicators upcoming next week. Retail review Redbook Research releases its weekly gauge of retail sales on Tuesday. The report is a key indicator of retailers’ performance because it measures...

Younger generations swap tradition for self-expression with holiday decorations

NEW YORK (AP) — Whether dressed in black, mimicking bare branches or decked out with enough bows for a Taylor Swift concert, the Christmas trees in some U.S. homes this year display an unconventional streak. They beckon visitors to behold the decorator's personality, not a mere symbol of Yuletide...

76ers win city council nod to build $1.3B downtown stadium and leave South Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — The Philadelphia 76ers won city council approval on Thursday for a $1.3 billion downtown arena despite vocal opposition from nearby Chinatown residents and other activists. Council voted 12-5 to approve the project at a packed meeting at City Hall. Owners of the...

For airports, background music no longer is an afterthought

SEATAC, Washington (AP) — Background music is no longer an afterthought at many airports, which are hiring local musicians and carefully curating playlists to help lighten travelers’ moods. London’s Heathrow Airport built a stage to showcase emerging British performers for the...

Energy chief Granholm warns against 'unfettered exports' of liquefied natural gas

WASHINGTON (AP) — The United States should proceed cautiously as officials consider new natural gas export terminals, Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm said Tuesday, warning the incoming Trump administration that “unfettered exports" of liquefied natural gas, or LNG, could drive up domestic...

Retail sales rose at healthy pace last month in latest sign of US economy's health

WASHINGTON (AP) — Consumers stepped up their spending at retail stores last month, providing a boost to the economy in the early phases of the winter holiday shopping season. Retail sales rose 0.7% in November, the Commerce Department said Tuesday, a solid increase and higher than...

Retail sales rose at healthy pace last month in latest sign of the US economy's health

Mexico's regulators impose 10-year special restrictions on Walmart's subsidiary

MEXICO CITY (AP) — Mexico's anti-monopoly regulators on Monday imposed special conditions for a period of 10 years on Walmart’s Mexico subsidiary for allegedly pressuring suppliers. The decision follows a related $4.6 million fine handed down by the regulators, known as the...