• July 23, 2007

Claire Watts--Wal-Mart's top apparel executive and once among the highest-ranked women at the world's largest retailer--has resigned, reports Women's Wear Daily.

Dottie Mattison, a 12-year Gap Inc. veteran who joined Walmart.com in 2006, will become senior vice president and general merchandise manager over women's apparel, reporting to chief merchant John Fleming.

Watts' efforts to bring in trendier and pricier apparel and home décor to U.S. stores fell short with core shoppers, and in recent months, the company has renewed its commitment to its lowest-prices market positioning.

--Sarah Mahoney