Kohl's is also pursuing operational enhancements in its stores, many of which support the company's green mission to be a leading environmentally responsible retailer. In addition to LEED pre-certification for the design of the new environmentally friendly stores, other recent green accomplishments for the company include:
• In July 2008, 50 Kohl's stores earned the Energy Star label for superior energy efficiency and environmental performance, marking the largest group of retail buildings to earn the label in Energy Star history. The program continues to grow, and as of September, more than 100 Kohl's stores have been awarded the label. • Kohl's state-of-the-art photo studio, which opened in Milwaukee in January, was constructed using LEED criteria and is in pursuit of Gold certification. • In its May issue, Working Mother Magazine recognized Kohl's as one of the Best Green Companies for America's Children. Kohl's is the largest retail host of solar power – its distributed solar program, which spans six states, is the largest in the world among retailers. • The EPA honored Kohl's with a Green Power Leadership Award for being the No. 2 retail purchaser of renewable energy.
Kohl's further differentiates itself in the marketplace by carrying quality national and exclusive brands at a value customers can appreciate. Kohl's offers exclusive brands such as Simply Vera Vera Wang, Abbey Dawn, ELLE, FILA SPORT and Food Network, and national brands including Levi's, Carter's and Cuisinart. In spring 2009, Kohl's will become the exclusive U.S. retailer for Dana Buchman women's apparel, intimates, accessories and footwear.