Business News provided by The Daily Times

Americans slightly more optimistic on spending

Americans’ confidence in the economy improved slightly in August from July, but they’re still roughly as gloomy as a year ago.

Area stores to sell Maryville College merchandise

Soon, Blount County shoppers will see more orange and garnet in their shopping aisles.

Beall’s and Burke’s Outlets plan 27 new stores

Beall’s and Burke’s Outlet, which has a store in Midland Plaza in Alcoa, is planning grand openings at 27 outlets in October and November 2010.

Maryville College graduate managing new Book Gallery Outlet

Tommy Cramer, a Maryville College graduate, is manager of the Book Gallery Outlet’s new store at 180 North Peters Road in Knoxville.

Emma e-mail marketing launches Social Sharing feature

Emma, the stylish e-mail marketing and communications service, has introduced Social Sharing, giving small and midsize businesses, non-profits and agencies an easy way to integrate their e-mail newsletters and campaigns with social networks like Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.

Twin City group adds Cadillac luxury

Cadillac of Knoxville — owned and operated by a Blount County-based dealership group — is open for business.

Eastman Board approves $300 million share repurchases

The Board of Directors of Eastman Chemical Company has declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.44 per share on the company’s common stock.