July Sales Jumped in Trade, Fell in Education (publishersweekly.com)

For the first quarter, net sales were $561.8 million compared to $583.7 million in last year's first quarter. This decrease of 3.8% primarily reflects a comparable sales decline of 5.9% and the impact of 41 net store closures since last year's first quarter, partially offset by the favorable impact of the calendar shift due to the 53rd week in fiscal 2017. The comparable sales decline was primarily driven by lower transaction count. For the first quarter, gross margin was $226.9 million, or 40.4% of net sales, compared to $237.4 million, or 40.7% of net sales, in last year's first quarter. This 30 basis point decrease primarily reflects the initial implementation costs and launch of a new expedited shipping program, partially offset by a 70 basis point improvement in maintained margin. Click Read More below for additional information.

There will be six issues per year, and a digital format that can be read on any device. Scholastic is offering a preview, highlighting Earth Day-related careers in free articles and activities. SuperSTEM offers the following features: *A selection of cross-curricular lessons designed to achieve Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). *Topics that serve a range of reading levels in every issue. *Photography and hands-on demonstration videos. *Educator kits. *Family engagement opportunities.

Hearst Magazines announced that Jon Gluck, formerly managing editor of Vogue, has been named executive director, editorial talent, development and special projects, a new role responsible for senior-level editorial recruiting and magazine development. The announcement was made by Hearst Magazines President David Carey and Chief Content Officer Joanna Coles. Gluck assumes his new position on September 5, reporting to Coles and Scherri Roberts, senior vice president, Human Resources. Gluck will be responsible for senior-level editorial recruitment for Hearst Magazines’ new launches and 20 brands in print, and will work closely with existing editors on magazine development. In addition, he will conceptualize new magazines and special projects, such as live events. “To say that the industry is going through an exciting period of change is an understatement,” Carey said. “Jon will play a central role in the transformation of our U.S. media business, both as we evolve our existing businesses, and acquire and start new ones.”