As it makes a late-season back-to-school push, Kohl’s is promoting dorm must-haves, backpacks, first-day outfits and other essentials priced under $10 and under $25 to go with an annual event designed to entice consumers who are still shopping for the classroom return.
In addition, the company has announced significant changes to its board of directors, including appointment of a new chair, former Bath & Body Works executive Wendy Arlin.
Through August 2, Kohl’s “Friends & Family Sale” will provide shoppers with a coupon offering an extra 20% off purchases plus $10 in the company’s Kohl’s Cash credits for every $50 spent. Consumers also will find hundreds of private-label Big One Home items priced under $25.
In another move to support BTS sales, the company is offering food storage and dorm decor merchandise starting at $10, lunch boxes starting at $15 and beauty essentials from Sephora priced under $25.
Kohl’s is currently operating a College Essentials page on its website linking to assortments under 13 category headings including Bath, Bedding, Decor, Furniture, Heating and Cooling, Kitchen and Dining, and Storage and Tech.
Meanwhile, Kohl’s announced that its board had elected Arlin to the chair post. She has been a director on Kohl’s board since 2023, heading up the finance and audit committees from May 2025. Kohl’s also reported Niren Chaudhary, former chair and CEO of Panera Brands, has joined the board as an independent director.
Arlin’s appointment comes after John Schlifske informed the Kohl’s board that he is retiring from the directorate for personal reasons after 15 years of service,
Arlin held leadership roles at L Brands for almost two decades, most recently serving as executive vice resident and CFO of Bath & Body Works through her retirement in 2023.
Of Arlin’s appointment, Michael Bender, Kohl’s CEO and a board director, commented, “Wendy (Arlin) is a deeply thoughtful and principled director who will excel in leading the board as chair. With deep financial and retail expertise, Wendy provides valuable perspective to both the board and the management team. She has been a valued voice and a natural leader in the boardroom since joining in 2023, and I look forward to working with her in this new capacity.”
