J.C. Penney brings back free haircuts for kids

Associated Press

NEW YORK

Children who missed the opportunity to get a free haircut at J.C. Penney last month will get plenty more chances.

After an overwhelming response to the chain’s free-haircut program offer for children in August — 1.6 million haircuts, to be exact — Penney will be making it a permanent offer every Sunday, starting Nov. 4.

The decision underscores the extent of new CEO Ron Johnson’s efforts to re-energize the chain and transform every aspect of its business, from pricing to creating a new shopping experience.

The move comes as the Plano, Texas-based company grapples with two-straight quarters of losses and severe sales drops as shoppers, accustomed to big sales signs, have been turned off by a new pricing plan.