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The Retail Industry Leaders Association has released the results of the 2011 Crime Trends and Leading Practices Survey, a comprehensive look at the past year's trends in crimes against businesses from the perspective of the country's leading retailers. S

As malls across the country empty out, it's no wonder their remains are being scavenged. Retailers are leaving malls whlie Protestant churches in the American suburbs are growing and franchising. Malls and churches may seem like an strange combination, like Auntie Annie's pretzels washed down with communion wine. 

American Apparel expects its rollout of radio frequency identification (RFID) to expand to 100 additional stores by the end of the year. The Los Angeles-based apparel retailer already deployed the technology to over 50 of its 285 stores. According to RFID Journal, American Apparel has seen unexpected benefits from the initial rollout including a significant decline in employee theft.

Many companies and organizations recognize Breast Cancer Awareness Month every October, and Old Navy is doing something unique to join the fight. As someone who lost a loved one last year to this disease, today’s partnership announcement between Old Navy and the Susan G. Komen Foundation makes me proud to work for Gap Inc. I know my aunt would have appreciated this effort and been pretty in pink (which she wore often in support), wearing a shirt to promote the cause. Throughout this month, you can make donations to the Komen Foundation at any Old Navy store as well

Target has announced partnerships with several fashion designers for limited edition women's wear, handbags, lingerie, lounge wear and accessories. Target signed designer Josie Natori for its first limited edition collection of lingerie and loungewear.

bebe reported that revenue for the quarter ended Oct. 1 rose 7.1 percent to $116 million, missing Wall Street's expected $124.1 million in sales. Same-store sales for the quarter rose 7 percent. The apparel retailer said it is focused on international growth and expects its international licensees will grow by up to 30 freestanding stores and 30 shops inside department stores in the fiscal year.

Retail same-store sales gained 5.7 percent in September, compared with the previous month which was hurt by Hurricane Irene, Kantar Retail reported. The results are led by stronger-than-average results at food, drug and mass retailers, but apparel and accessory stores and department stores lagged, but posted the most improved growth.

CNBC's Courtney Reagan with a preview of consumer spending and retail sales this holiday season.

Best Buy made a pretty big goof, accidentally pricing the HTC Flyer at $99.99. The electronics retailer mistakenly dropped the price on the tablet following the launch of Amazon's Kindle Fire, which is priced at $199.

Christopher & Banks Corp. reported a net loss of $13 million for the quarter ended Aug. 27, compared with a loss of $2.5 million in the year-ago period. Sales dropped to $96.2 million from $101.3 million, and same-store sales declined 8 percent during the quarter.