Briefs: Motorola considers touch screens

WASHINGTON -- Motorola Chief Financial Officer Tom Meredith said Wednesday the company could release wireless phones in the U.S. with touch-screen controls similar to Apple's iPhone. Meredith, speaking to investors at a Citigroup conference, praised the design of the iPhone, saying "its user interface is exceptional." He said Motorola has marketed phones with some touch-screen controls for several years, primarily in Asia. If demand for that feature remains strong, he said, eventually "we may introduce touch screens in the U.S."

Krispy Kreme to close stores

CHICAGO -- The Chicago-area Krispy Kreme franchise operator filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy this week and said it plans to close as many as half its 15 Chicago-area stores. Des Peres, Mo.-based Sweet Traditions confirmed Wednesday lease disputes and a lack of new products from North Carolina-based Krispy Kreme contributed to its financial problems. It also said it is cutting 110 to 140 jobs. The company has a payroll of more than 500 people. The franchise already closed sites at highway oasis locations at O'Hare International Airport, Lake Forest and Belvidere.

APAC's resolves appeal with IRS

DEERFIELD -- APAC Customer Services, a provider of customer care services, said Wednesday it successfully resolved its pending appeal to the Internal Revenue Service. On Aug. 30, the IRS reported the firm's 2002 worthless stock deduction relating to its remaining investment in ITI Holdings Inc. would be allowed. In 2002, APAC received an $11.6 million cash tax refund associated with its investment in ITI. The IRS had disallowed the deduction, which the company then appealed.

United customers still get Starbucks

CHICAGO -- United Airlines customers can continue to sip Starbucks coffee under a recently signed agreement between the two worldwide brands. United exclusively serves Starbucks coffee. The agreement enhances United's recent efforts to provide premium products and services for customers.