CLIFTON, N.J. -- Linens 'N Things has named Jane Gilmartin evp and chief merchandising officer. Gilmartin, who was senior vp, gmm of dd's Discount, a division of Ross Stores, will report directly to Jack Moore, Linens 'N Things president and coo.

Norman Axelrod, Linens 'N Things chairman and ceo, noted that Gilmartin had been company vp of merchandising with responsibility for the "things" side of the business in the late 1990s, and did stints at Service Merchandise and Bed Bath & Beyond in senior roles before taking the position at Ross Stores.

Axelrod told DSN Retailing Today that, after an extensive search, Gilmartin stood out in terms of the focus she brings to the role of cmo at Linens 'N Things. "We talked to a lot of people," he said. "We think that there are a lot of good managers out there, and there are a lot of good strategic thinkers. But I thought that Jane, far and away, is the best combination of merchant and visionary. Jane's focus is on product, product, product, and that's the best person."

Moore stated, "Jane is a strong leader and merchant who will not only assist me with the merchandising side of the business by focusing on content, trend merchandising and brand building, but will also extend and broaden our ability to lead the organization and drive consistency." In a research note, Joan Storms, a Wedbush Morgan analyst, said, "Filling the new cmo position should jumpstart new trend-right merchandising strategy. While Jack Moore has made good progress with formulating the overall merchandising vision toward a more fashion-forward product offering, we believe the hiring of Gilmartin should solidify the merchandising organization.

"In addition, we should see improved execution with regard to executing the merchandise transition with additional management support. Although the last couple of quarters have been disappointing, we remain optimistic for Linens 'N Things to execute the holiday season and complete the merchandise transition in time for 2006."

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