News Briefs

INFORMATION RESOURCES INC.:

named Scott W. Klein president-CEO of the Chicago-based data firm. Klein had been president of Electronic Data Systems Corp.'s Consumer Industries & Retail business. He replaces Joe Durrett as IRI struggles to improve slumping sales. Klein is expected to focus first on solidifying IRI's core business of providing and analyzing market content data.

FASHION BUG: the Bensalem, PA-based retailer for plus, missy and junior size women, introduces Hello Kitty-adorned sleepwear and intimate apparel in sizes S-XL. Pajama sets and panties are available adorned with Hello Kitty characters and will be available in all 1,100 Fashion Bug stores.

ORBITZ: has expanded its hotel merchant program by 7,000 this week adding new partnerships with Choice Hotels International, Destination Hotels & Resorts and Kimpton Hotels.

ELITE SAMPLING AND PROMOTION: Kinnelon, NJ, has entered into an agreement with the Rainbow Apparel Co. to deliver gift-with-purchase programs at its Rainbow and 5.7.9 stores.