NRF Economist Says U.S. Recession Unlikely and Expects Slight Growth in 2023

A recession is unlikely and the economy is expected to see slight growth in 2023 as consumers continue to cope with inflation and high interest rates, National Retail Federation Chief Economist Jack Kleinhenz said today.

“A month into 2023, the economy is facing stiff headwinds and – with the exception of easing inflation – will likely face more challenges before it gets better,” Kleinhenz said. “The debate on whether we are in a recession will heighten over the next few months, just like last year...

BJ’s Wholesale Club Announces Change to Board of Directors

BJ’s Wholesale Club Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: BJ) (“BJ’s” or the “Company”) today announced that Judy Werthauser has resigned from its Board of Directors (“Board”) to pursue a new opportunity.

Ms. Werthauser has served on the Company’s Board since November 2018 and was most recently Chair of the Compensation Committee as well as a member of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. As part of Ms. Werthauser’s departure, the Board intends for Chris Peterson to join the Compensation Committee and Ken Parent to be appointed as Chair of the Compensation Committee...

U.S. Department of Agriculture Announces Key Staff Appointments

The U.S. Department of Agriculture today announced the names of individuals who will hold senior staff positions in Washington, D.C.

Regina Black has been promoted to Senior Advisor for Trade and National Security in the Office of the Secretary

Black has served as Chief of Staff for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs since August 2021. Before joining the Department, she was the Director of the Executive Office at the U.S. Dairy Export Council. Black previously served in the Obama Administration at USDA in various...

Red Robin Names Brian Sullivan as VP of Culinary & Beverage Innovation

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers and Brews is excited to announce the hiring of Brian Sullivan as its new Vice President of Culinary & Beverage Innovation. Sullivan will be leading the brand's efforts to elevate the guest dining experience, which include investing more in food quality and refreshing the menu, as part of the recently-unveiled "North Star" five-point turnaround plan to drive stronger results for the business.

Sullivan is well-positioned to lead this initiative as a visionary leader with over 40 years of industry-leading expertise in...

Online Grocery Sales Forecast for Further Growth Following Pandemic Boom

A forecast expects more consumers to shop for groceries online over the next five years, with the segment keeping momentum after it witnessed a boom during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Online grocery sales are forecast to grow at compound average growth rate (CAGR) of 11.7% over the next five years, per the 2023 Brick Meets Click/Mercatus 5-Year Grocery Sales Forecast.

Inflation, illness concerns including COVID, RSV and the flu along with a “maturing online segment” were noted as factors behind the growing popularity of online grocery shopping...

Moving Beyond Snacking, Tostitos to Debut First Pop-Up Restaurant During Super Bowl Weekend

Tost by Tostitos, a limited-time casual dining restaurant that puts Tostitos chips and dips at the center of its recipes, is offering a front-row seat to how the fan-favorite snack can transform into a mealtime MVP from February 9-11 in Phoenix, Arizona. Snackers across the U.S. will also be able to elevate their get-togethers with a lineup of DIY recipes and a giveaway to make one fan's celebration the ultimate game day gathering.

"Tostitos believes that with good food and good...

Kroger Delivery Expands to South Florida

The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR), America's grocer, today announced the opening of a new spoke facility in South Florida. Joined by the local community, Kroger celebrated the expansion of the delivery service and welcomed 90 new associates. This facility opening means customers can access Kroger's incredible selection of fresh items, unique Our Brands products and favorite national brands, as well as individualized offers for the groceries most important to their families – all delivered directly to their door by a friendly, professional Kroger associate.

"We are thrilled to connect more Floridians to the Kroger Delivery...

US Foods Adds Tech Firms to CHECK Business Tools Program to Help Operators Address Labor Shortages

US Foods Holding Corp. (NYSE: USFD), one of America’s largest foodservice distributors, today announced the addition of two transformative technology offerings to its CHECK® Business Tools program: Bear Robotics and 7shifts. US Foods CHECK Business Tools program provides foodservice operators with a growing suite of technology solutions designed to help drive traffic, simplify staffing and reduce waste. Bear Robotics and 7shifts were ultimately selected to join the US Foods CHECK Business Tools line-up after participating in the company’s Innovative...

Dine Brands International Continues Expansion with Dual-Brand Locations in the Middle East

Dine Brands International, an affiliate of Dine Brands Global, Inc., the parent company of Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill + Bar®, IHOP®, and Fuzzy’s Taco Shop® restaurants, announces today the opening of its dual-brand Applebee’s and IHOP location in the United Arab Emirates and plans to open a minimum of 4 additional locations in the Middle East in partnership with established franchisees Eagles Landing International Restaurants and Kout Food Group.

Eagles Landing International Restaurants opened its first dual-brand...

The NPD Group: Restaurant Industry Witnesses Stability Following Myriad of Headwinds

A pandemic, labor shortages and record inflation are just a few of the challenges that the foodservice industry has faced since early 2020.

The industry persevered and The NPD Group believes calmer seas may be ahead. Findings from The NPD Group show that U.S. commercial foodservice customer traffic to restaurants and other foodservice outlets ended 2022 flat compared to a year ago. Consumer spending at foodservice outlets was up 4%, thanks to higher prices.

“Looking forward to 2023, we anticipate improvements in supply chain disruptions, inflation deceleration...

The Retail Rundown: Comparing Urner Barry's Protein Indices

Seafood features climbed to the top spot across proteins this week with 30% of feature volume. Pork follows with 24%, while beef chimes in with 22%—down from 27% the week prior. Chicken accounts for 19.5% of ad space, while turkey holds onto just over 2%. Buying opportunities for eggs have dwindled in recent weeks and are currently registering zero. 

A look at Urner Barry's Weekly Retail Feature Indices so far this year shows that seafood features are priced the highest overall, while chicken features as a whole are the lowest. Seafood and chicken are above their respective year-ago levels, while pork and beef are showing a discount to 2022 levels...

New ALDI Distribution Center to Provide Access to Fresh, Affordable Groceries to 8 Million Customers

Today, ALDI unveiled its completed regional headquarters and distribution center in Loxley, Alabama, which will ultimately serve as many as 100 stores across the Gulf Coast. As one of America's fastest growing grocers, ALDI is committed to bringing fresh, award-winning groceries and products at an affordable price to consumers from coast to coast, and the Loxley distribution center will support this commitment.

"At a time when inflation is putting pressure on American wallets, we believe our mission to save people money on the food...

Sysco Reports Second Quarter Results

Sysco Corporation (NYSE: SYY) (“Sysco” or the “company”) today announced financial results for its 13-week second fiscal quarter ended December 31, 2022.

Key financial results for the second quarter of fiscal year 2023 include:

- Sales increased 13.9% versus the same period in fiscal year 2022;
- U.S. Foodservice volume increased 5.2% versus the same period in fiscal year 2022;
- Gross profit increased 15.9% to $3.3 billion, as compared to the same period last year;
- Operating income increased 44.0% to $640.6 million, and adjusted1 operating income increased to...

Gelson's Promotes John Bagan to President & CEO Following Retirement of Leader Rob McDougall

Gelson's has promoted John Bagan to President & CEO following the departure of Rob McDougall, who has retired from Gelson's after 15 years with the Southern California-based brand. The new leadership position marks Bagan's third promotion in two years, most recently moving from COO into the role of president in July 2022.

As President & CEO, Bagan will assume greater responsibility for the company's overall vision, business and growth strategy, as well as managing relationships with the Board of Directors and parent company Pan Pacific International Holdings (PPIH)...

Steve Tippmann Retires After 36 Years with Tippmann Group; John Tippmann III to Fill Role

Steve Tippmann, Executive Vice President at Tippmann Group / Interstate Warehousing has retired after nearly 36 years in the refrigerated warehousing and construction industries.

Tippmann’s career started in refrigeration engineering, but his more recent role had him focused on customer relationships and overseeing the sales and marketing goals of Tippmann Construction and Interstate Warehousing.

Throughout his career, Tippmann has also spent time as a leader on multiple boards for industry associations including the Global Cold Chain Alliance, American Meat Institute, and Refrigerating Engineers & Technicians Association...

NRF Statement on Senate Introduction of Critical ORC Legislation

The National Retail Federation today issued the following statement from Senior Vice President of Government Relations David French after the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act of 2023 and the Organized Retail Crime Center Authorization Act were introduced in the U.S. Senate. The bills will create new tools to assist in federal investigation and prosecution of ORC and help recover lost goods and proceeds.

“Retailers face security-related challenges on many fronts, and ORC continues to be a formidable threat in communities across the country...

Wild Cajun Meals Recalls Jambalaya and Gumbo Products Produced without Benefit of Inspection

Wild Cajun Meals LLC, a Garland, Texas establishment, is recalling approximately 18,418 pounds of frozen, fully cooked jambalaya and gumbo products that were produced without the benefit of federal inspection, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The frozen, fully cooked jambalaya and gumbo items were produced beginning in September 2021 and have various sell by dates. The following products are subject to recall:

- 32-oz. Plastic containers of “Lady Jambalaya Homemade...

Study Shows U.S. Egg Farmers Earn a 10-to-1 Return on Investment in American Egg Board

New economic research conducted at Cornell University shows the American Egg Board (AEB) delivered $10.11 in industry-wide net revenue for every checkoff dollar invested by America’s egg farmers from 2017-2021 — totaling nearly a billion dollars in incremental value annually or $4.57 billion for that total time frame. The results represent more than a 10 percent increase over a previously reported return of $9.04, which only accounted for consumer-focused initiatives...

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Case Confirmed in a Commercial Turkey Flock in Iowa

The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) have confirmed a positive case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in Buena Vista County, Iowa.

The affected site is a commercial turkey flock.

Commercial and backyard flock owners should prevent contact between their birds and wild birds. Sick birds or unusual deaths among birds should be immediately reported to state or federal officials...

Publix Charlotte Division Vice President to Retire; New Vice President Announced

After more than 47 years of dedicated service, Publix Super Markets Charlotte Division Vice President Chuck Roskovich has announced his decision to retire March 31.

Roskovich, 61, began his Publix career in 1975 as a part-time front service clerk in Lauderhill, Florida. He transferred to the meat department in 1977 and was promoted to meat manager in 1984. In 1992, as meat manager, he had the privilege of being part of the management team that opened the company’s first store in the Atlanta Division...

Dollar General Announces 19,000th Store Opening

Dollar General (NYSE: DG) commemorated the grand opening of its 19,000th store in Joplin, Missouri today with a community celebration and $19,000 donation to a local elementary school. Customers also received complimentary DG gift cards, tote bags and product samples.

“Today marks an exciting milestone in Dollar General’s history as we open our 19,000th store,” said Jeff Owen, Dollar General’s chief executive officer. “Since opening our first Missouri store in 1973, Dollar General has a longstanding history in the state and proudly employs more than 6,000 Missourians through our store, distribution center and...

Amazon Raises Fees For Free Delivery Of Groceries Online

Amazon Prime members who order groceries online through Amazon Fresh will soon pay a lot more to get free delivery.

Starting Feb. 28, online Amazon Fresh grocery orders of less than $150 will incur delivery fees, Amazon.com Inc. said in an email to Prime members.

Delivery charges will be $9.95 for orders under $50, $6.95 for orders between $50 and $100, and $3.95 for orders between $100 and $150, Amazon said.

Currently, Prime members outside of New York City who spend...

New Meijer Grocery Stores Open Doors to Fresh, Convenient Retail Experience in Michigan

Meijer opened its first two Meijer Grocery stores in Lake Orion and Macomb Township today, offering Metro Detroit customers a new way to shop the Michigan retailer known for pioneering the one-stop shopping concept.

"As a company, we've opened more than 500 supercenters, neighborhood markets and Meijer Express locations, and that feeling of excitement and anticipation as you welcome customers in for the first time never gets old," Executive Chairman Hank Meijer said. "But opening the doors of these stores feels particularly special because of...

Children’s Food and Beverage Market to Continue Growth Through 2027

When it comes to purchasing food, taste is the number one priority for most consumers. For parents, their children’s willingness to eat a given food is a close second. Compared to all consumers, parents are more likely to prioritize food characteristics that provide a health halo such as high protein, unsaturated fats, clean label, low sugar, and non-GMO. Parents tend to be more health-conscious and choosy about foods for their kids and themselves.

Products free from common allergens – such as nuts, dairy, and eggs...

NRF: Valentine’s Day Spending to Soar Past 2022 to $26 Billion

The National Retail Federation (NRF) expects consumers to shell out $25.9 billion for Valentine’s Day in 2023, up from 2022’s $23.9 billion, per an annual survey released by the group and Prosper Insights & Analytics.

If the survey results hold true, 2023 would be one of the highest spending years on record, the NRF noted.

“Valentine’s Day is a special occasion to shop for the people we care most about,” NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay said. “This year, as consumers embrace spending on friends and...

Campbell Appoints Carrie Anderson Chief Financial Officer

Campbell Soup Company (NYSE:CPB) today announced the appointment of Carrie L. Anderson as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, effective Feb. 6.

Anderson will lead Campbell’s finance function, including controllership, corporate financial planning and analysis, corporate strategy and development, tax, treasury, internal audit, investor relations, transactional services and financial systems. She will report to Campbell’s President and Chief Executive Officer Mark Clouse and become a member of the company’s Operating Committee and a Corporate Officer. Anderson succeeds Mick Beekhuizen, who was appointed President of Campbell’s Meals & Beverages division in November 2022...

Addie's Debuts as the East Coast's First Drive-up Grocer, with Rapid Expansion to Follow

Addie's, the drive-up grocer redefining the grocery shopping experience, officially launched today its first concept store with $10.1 million in seed funding led by the Disruptive Innovation Fund, the venture capital arm of Clay Christensen's Rose Park Advisors. Instead of patchworking together in-store grocery, online grocery, and direct-to-consumer delivery models, Addie's has built an entirely new one: a pick-up-only store designed solely for stocking, storing, and bagging groceries without the need for a shopper ever to step...

McDonald's President: California Keeps Looking for Ways to Raise Prices, Drive Away More Businesses

Whether you're a lawmaker, a business owner or leader, or an everyday voter, one thing is clear: California has become a dramatic case study of putting bad politics over good policy.

Last fall, the legislature passed a bill – AB257, or the FAST Act – almost entirely at the behest of organized labor's firm grip on many of the state's lawmakers. It makes it all but impossible to run small business restaurants, but the impacts are far beyond that. Under the FAST Act

Papa Johns Unveils New Design for International Restaurants

Papa Johns today announced a new design for international restaurants that invites people to enjoy Papa Johns premium pizza together in a warm setting that brings to life the Papa Johns promise of Better Ingredients. Better Pizza.® Premium ingredients – the core of the Papa Johns experience – are highlighted throughout the new restaurant through colors, lighting and decor that showcases Papa Johns new visual brand identity. In a streamlined and flexible environment, Papa Johns team members will be equipped to more efficiently create quality food and serve it in the seamless, personalized...

The Retail Rundown: How Do Plant-Based Meat Sales Fare at Retail?

Plant protein has piqued increased interest among consumers in recent years. Within the plant protein arena, plant-based meat ranks second in terms of sales dollars, behind plant-based milk.

Boosted by growing demand among consumers, whether vegan, vegetarian, or flexitarian, plant-based meat sales climbed to $1.4 billion in 2020, according to the Good Food Institute. That was up 45% from 2019 and a record year of growth.  However, dollar sales of plant-based meat in 2021 were flat with the year prior at $1.4 billion.

Like conventional meat, the plant-based industry has weathered recent years of pandemic-related challenges including supply chain issues and inflation. A deeper dive into Information Resources, Inc. (IRI) data suggests that plant-based sales at retail could continue to stall following its sharp upward trajectory three years prior...

Morrison Named New U.S. Poultry & Egg Association Chairman

Jarod Morrison, Farbest Foods, Huntingburg, Indiana, was elected chairman of the board of directors of U.S. Poultry & Egg Association (USPOULTRY). The board meeting was held during the International Poultry Expo, part of the 2023 International Production & Processing Expo. Morrison previously served as vice chairman.

Morrison received his BS in Finance from the University of Southern Indiana and his MBA from Purdue University. Before joining Farbest Foods, he was senior director of finance and accounting with Masterbrand Cabinets and finance manager with GE Plastics...

American Egg Board Enters Into Partnership With HATCH to Increase Egg Availability in Food Banks

The American Egg Board (AEB) and HATCH, a nonprofit organization based in Carmel, Ind., have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at supporting the role of eggs in hunger relief efforts, including nutrition education, communication and promotion, as well as storage and transport.

The announcement was made as part of the Protein Secure: Fighting Food Insecurity panel at IPPE’s annual exposition in Atlanta, Ga. AEB President and CEO Emily Metz joined Jeff Simmons, CEO of Elanco and HATCH For Hunger’s chairman, Chad Gregory...

BASF, Cargill Expand Partnership to Offer Enzyme Solutions to U.S. Animal Protein Producers

At the IPPE fair in Atlanta, BASF and Cargill today announced their expanded cooperation, adding the United States (US) to their existing feed enzymes development and distribution agreement. Together, the two companies are committed to bringing innovative enzyme-based solutions to the market, generating distinctive value for animal feed customers. By combining the enzyme research and development strengths of BASF with Cargill’s know-how in application and broad market reach, the partners will form a joint innovation pipeline for animal protein producers...

TGI Fridays New Three-Course Feast Menu Brings All the Friday Feels Without Breaking the Bank

For fans seeking a guaranteed good deal – and good time, TGI Fridays is serving up a can't-miss menu for guests to share that's sure to please both their taste buds and their wallets. Starting today (just in time for Valentine's Day) through April 3rd, the brand is serving up the all-new Fridays Feast menu – a complete three-course meal for two starting at just $28*.

Only available for a limited time, fans will want to get a taste of Fridays...

FMI Elects New Board Members as Industry Sees Opportunity Ahead

Today, FMI – The Food Industry Association announced its 2023 Board of Directors elected at the association’s annual Midwinter Executive Conference in Orlando. The new slate will guide the implementation of FMI’s 2023-approved strategic plan during a time of rapidly evolving industry challenges and opportunities and reflects the breadth of the product supplier and retailer/wholesaler communities. The outgoing Board officers, first elected in 2020, agreed last year to continue serving in order to provide continuity to the association amid ongoing supply chain and inflation challenges...

Consumers Now Take a Holistic Approach to Their Health and Focus on Both Mental, Physical Well-Being

The focus on health and wellness evolved throughout the pandemic as consumers began seeking coping mechanisms for their altered lifestyles. The consumer’s need for normalcy at the height of the pandemic was the entry for a mental and physical health focus, reports The NPD Group. Compared to the pre-pandemic period, more consumers say that the amount and quality of sleep, work-life balance, and managing stress are important factors contributing to their health...

Tennessee Gov. Announce SK Food Group, Inc. to Establish Manufacturing Operations in Bradley County

Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee, Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Stuart McWhorter and SK Food Group, Inc. officials announced today the company will invest $205.2 million to construct its fourth production facility with Cleveland, Tennessee, as its newest location.
As a result of the project, SK Food Group will create 840 new jobs in Bradley County by 2030.

SK Food Group’s new 525,000-square-foot manufacturing facility will support the company’s growing consumer demand by utilizing state-of-the-art automated technology to assist...

NPFDA Association Set to Induct Officers and Appoint New Board Members

The National Protein and Food Distributors Association Board of Directors will meet on Monday, January 23, 2023, in Atlanta, GA. to tap officers and newly elected board members.

Judson “Jud” Guest, Executive Vice President at LAD Truck Lines, Inc., in Watkinsville, GA, will succeed Jeff Paschall, Vice-President of Sales & Marketing at Fieldale Farms / Springer Mountain Farms, in Baldwin, GA, as chairperson of NPFDA. Laurie Pate, President at Foodlinx, Inc., in Brentwood, CA, moves into the Vice Chair role after serving as Treasurer. Newly elected...

Members of the 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee Announced

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced the appointment of 20 nationally recognized scientists to serve on the 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee (the Committee).

The Committee will be tasked with reviewing the current body of science on key nutrition topics and developing a scientific report that includes its independent assessment of the evidence and recommendations for HHS and USDA as they develop the Dietary Guidelines for Americans...

Cal-Maine Foods Announces Partnership With Entegrity, to Install Solar Array at Arkansas Facility

Cal-Maine Foods, Inc. (NASDAQ: CALM, or the “Company”), the largest producer and distributor of fresh shell eggs in the United States, today announced a partnership with Entegrity Energy Partners (“Entegrity”), an energy services, sustainability, and solar development provider. Given the expanding opportunities for solar investments, Cal-Maine Foods has engaged Entegrity to install a 4.15 megawatt, direct-current solar array at the Company’s egg production and processing operation in Searcy, Arkansas. The 28-acre solar array is projected to offset approximately 91%...

Perdue Farms Partners with GreenGasUSA, 17 Percent Companywide Net Reduction in Carbon Emissions

Perdue Farms has partnered with GreenGasUSA to further the company’s carbon-reduction goals.

In late 2022, GreenGas completed installation of equipment at Perdue’s operations in Lewiston, N.C. to capture the methane from the operation’s onsite wastewater treatment facility and convert it to renewable natural gas (RNG).

Through GreenGas’ partnership with large food producers, industrial, and manufacturing companies all across the United States, the pipeline-grade RNG is transported from Perdue’s Lewiston operation to a GreenGas RNG pipeline interconnection hub, where it is injected into...

USDA Publishes Strengthening Organic Enforcement Final Rule

Today, the USDA National Organic Program (NOP) previewed the Strengthening Organic Enforcement (SOE) final rule. This update to the USDA organic regulations strengthens oversight and enforcement of the production, handling, and sale of organic products. This final rule implements 2018 Farm Bill mandates, responds to industry requests for updates to the USDA organic regulations, and addresses National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) recommendations.

“Protecting and growing the organic sector and the trusted USDA organic seal is a key part of the USDA Food Systems Transformation initiative,” said Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs ...

UB Consulting: Why the Rise in Egg Prices?

The rise in grocery prices has been a topic of conversation for much of the past year. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) consumer price index report highlighted this. In 2022, the average year-over-year increase in the food-at-home index was 11.4 percent. More recently, however, heightened attention has been drawn to the price of eggs at retail—a situation that has left many consumers scratching their heads, asking why eggs are so costly nowadays.

For many consumers, egg prices were of little thought – a relatively inexpensive...

U.S. Natural Gas Wholesale Prices Expected to Decline This Year

The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) is forecasting lower wholesale U.S. natural prices this year and into 2024, according to its January Short-Term Energy Outlook (STEO) released Wednesday. 

The EIA is anticipating natural gas production in the United States to increase by 2% this year and expects the Henry Hub price, which is the U.S. benchmark, to average $4.90 per mission British thermal units (MMBtu) in 2023. If accurate, this would be more than $1.50/MMBtu lower than the 2022 average. 

In the first quarter of 2023, the Henry Hub price could average close to $5.00/MMBtu. This is due to increased demand during the winter along with liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports at near-capacity volumes, explained the EIA...

USDA Seeks Public Comment on Proposal to Strengthen Animal Disease Traceability Regulations

The United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is proposing to amend animal disease traceability regulations and require electronic identification for interstate movement of certain cattle and bison. APHIS is also proposing to revise and clarify record requirements. These changes would strengthen the Nation’s ability to quickly respond to significant animal disease outbreaks. Major animal disease outbreaks hurt our ranchers and farmers and all those who support them along the supply chain, threaten our food security, and impact our ability to trade...

The Retail Rundown: Seafood Feature Volume Increases

Seafood feature volume increased to the top spot across the protein complex this week. Seafood ads account for nearly 30% of total protein ads, while beef is a close second with 29%. Pork features claim about 23%, while chicken makes up 17%. With the holiday baking season behind us, egg features accounted for less than one percent of total retail buying opportunities.   

In the seafood complex, fresh finfish was the top seller last week with $28.3 million in total sales, or about 32% of the total seafood sales value. A deeper dive into the finfish category shows fresh salmon as the leading species among shoppers. Salmon retailed at an average of $11.24 non-discounted, versus $10.37 discounted.

Fresh cod purchases ranked second with about $19.2 million in sales for the week ended January 8. In the frozen aisle, shrimp retailed at $9.23 non-discounted, 14.5% higher than its discounted average price. Convenient prepared options including frozen seafood cakes made a splash with $560,320 in total sales, according to Information Resources, Inc (IRI) data...

P.F. Chang's Celebrates the 2023 Lunar New Year and Year of the Rabbit

P.F. Chang's® is honoring its roots in Asian tradition by celebrating the Year of the Rabbit with unique in-restaurant experiences and limited-edition retail items available online. Among the most celebrated and festive holidays in Asian culture, Lunar New Year brings together family members and loved ones to usher out the old and honor new beginnings through traditions that symbolize luck and fortune.

To toast this special occasion, guests dining in can enjoy P.F. Chang's limited-time specialty crafted cocktail...

U.S., EU Agree to Tariff Rate Quotas for Agricultural Products

The United States Trade Representative (USTR) Katherine Tai and a number of EU representatives signed the U.S.-EU Tariff Rate Quota (TRQ) Agreement on January 17.

According to the USTR, the agreement will allow the U.S. to preserve its existing access to the EU market for various agricultural commodities following the United Kingdom’s exit from the EU on January 1, 2021.

“The new TRQ allocations are based on the historical pattern of agricultural exports to the 27 EU Member States,” the USTR’s office wrote in a press release...

Chili's Grill & Bar Names New Vice President of Marketing

Brinker International, Inc. (NYSE: EAT) today announced that Jesse Johnson has joined the company as Vice President of Marketing. In this newly created role, Johnson will develop and execute marketing strategies for Chili's® Grill & Bar and bring the brand to life across multiple touchpoints, including advertising, media, PR and the Guest experience.

An accomplished brand director with over 16 years of experience, Johnson spent much of his career at Wieden+Kennedy (W+K) leading award-winning marketing initiatives and campaigns for top brands such...

REPORTER: Is The Future of Self-Checkout in Limbo?

This article was originally featured in the Winter 2023 Edition of Urner Barry’s Reporter magazine. Want a FREE subscription? Click HERE.

The days may be numbered for selfcheckout in retail stores. The problems are getting bigger, the losses are increasing, and retailers are frustrated.

Wegmans Food Markets decided to eliminate their scan and go self-checkout in September 2022 due to several losses from theft. Will other retailers follow suit?

An email was sent to the users of the Wegmans SCAN app that said...

REPORTER: Food Trends in Focus in 2023

This article was originally featured in the Winter 2023 Edition of Urner Barry’s Reporter magazine. Want a FREE subscription? Click HERE.

If anything, the food industry is resilient. After spending much of the last three years battling the COVID-19 pandemic, the focus has shifted to record inflation and a potential recession heading into 2023.

With questions about rising food prices and the impact it will have on consumer food spending habits, industry experts are expecting social media, classic menu items and sustainable protein options to play a key role in the...

NRF Announces Six Additions to Board of Directors

The National Retail Federation today announced the addition of six new members to its Board of Directors. The new members were elected to the board at NRF’s annual winter board meeting, held at NRF 2023: Retail’s Big Show.

“We are honored to welcome such a distinguished and diverse group of individuals to the NRF Board of Directors,” NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay said. “Their willingness to provide volunteer leadership, expertise and guidance to NRF allows us to continue driving positive change on behalf of retailers large and small in communities across...

Uber Eats and Visa Partner for Greener Restaurant Packaging

Uber (NYSE:UBER) and Visa (NYSE:V) today announced a new program designed to support small-and medium-sized businesses in their transition to green and sustainable packaging solutions, as part of a broader year-long effort to support SMBs who use Uber Eats to grow their businesses.

Together, the two companies will make $1 million accessible to qualifying Uber Eats restaurants in New York, Los Angeles, London, Paris and Madrid to be used towards funding sustainable packaging solutions to help transition to a greener future, which hospitality industry research indicates...

The Wendy's Company Reports Preliminary Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2022 Results

The Wendy's Company (Nasdaq: WEN) today reported preliminary, unaudited results for the fourth quarter and fiscal year ended January 1, 2023. The Company plans to release its audited financial statements and file its annual report on Form 10-K on March 1, 2023.

"Our 2022 results highlight the strength and resiliency of the Wendy's® brand as we continued to deliver compelling sales and profit growth," President and Chief Executive Officer Todd Penegor said. "During the year, global same-restaurant sales reached double digits on a two-year...

Mercatus Unveils Next Generation Mobile Grocery Shopping App Providing Greater Customer Convenience

Mercatus, a leading provider of grocery eCommerce solutions, today announced the evolution of Mercatus Mobile -- an entirely new mobile commerce experience for grocery retailers and their customers. Built from the ground up with the latest mobile innovations in mind and using a completely new architecture, Mercatus Mobile delivers a seamless shopping experience to help grocers increase mobile conversions, improve order frequency and retain online customers.

The new mobile app offers grocery retailers more control over their online experience providing direct access...

Afresh Technologies and Albertsons Companies Roll Out AI-Powered Platform to More Than 2,000 Stores

Afresh Technologies, the world's leading fresh food technology company, and Albertsons Companies (NYSE: ACI) announced today the completion of an enterprise rollout of the Afresh predictive ordering and inventory management platform across nearly all of Albertsons Cos.' banner stores across the country. The system was fully deployed in more than 2,000 stores in seven months, far less than the three to five years typically required for large-scale enterprise software implementations in the grocery industry...

REPORTER: Convenience Stores Could Be The New Quick-Service Restaurant

This article was originally featured in the Winter 2023 Edition of Urner Barry’s Reporter magazine. Want a FREE subscription? Click HERE.

Step aside fast-food restaurants, convenience stores are taking the spotlight. With hot and ready-toeat meals, they are offering cheaper alternatives than what you may find at your local quick-service chain.

Convenience stores are the typical go-to store to get a pack of gum or bag of chips when stopping at the gas station, or even during a road trip to grab a quick bite...

U.S. Broiler Exports Posted Solid Gains in November

U.S. broiler exports for January through November 2022 reached an all-time high in both volume and value, according to new trade data released by the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service.

China, Taiwan, Angola, Philippines, Georgia, Congo (Brazzaville), Vietnam, Gabon, Gambia, Singapore, Canada, and Turkmenistan showed tremendous gains in broiler exports from the same period a year earlier.

Broiler exports for the first 11 months of 2022 were 3,490,748 metric tons, up 5.5 percent from the same period a year earlier, while export value...

USDA Accepting Applications for Netherlands Agribusiness Trade Mission

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service is accepting applications from U.S. exporters for its first-ever regional agricultural trade mission to Amsterdam, Netherlands, April 17 – 20, 2023.

“Agribusiness producers, exporters, and growers in the United States may find the Netherlands to be a perfect gateway to Europe,” said FAS Administrator Daniel B. Whitley. “Participants will explore exporting opportunities in this mature market, which continues to grow, and meet potential buyers in surrounding regional markets.”

U.S. agricultural and related exports, including fishery...

FMI Statement on December CPI Food Price Numbers

Today, FMI - The Food Industry Association Vice President, Tax, Trade, Sustainability and Policy Development Andy Harig issued the following statement on the December 2022 Consumer Price Index (CPI) numbers reflecting still elevated but moderating food price inflation.

“The latest CPI data serve as encouraging end cap on an otherwise turbulent year. As inflation slows, economists remain cautiously optimistic about the potential for a soft landing for the U.S. economy.

“Still, the December CPI data reflect that the global food market remains tight. In 2022, we witnessed energy prices become increasingly volatile, creating...

Jollibee to Debut Its First Two-Lane Drive-Thru in U.S. at Orlando, Florida

Restaurant sensation Jollibee is rapidly expanding across North America and sunny Orlando, Florida is next on the list. Known for offering delicious food at great value, Jollibee is bringing its friendly customer service and signature brand of joy to the city of Orlando.

On January 18, 2023, Jollibee will debut its Orlando storefront at 11891 East Colonial Drive and invites hungry Floridians to experience what sets Jollibee apart from its competitors – extraordinary menu offerings and friendly customer service. Jollibee specializes in all things fried...

In-N-Out Burger Announces Expansion to Tennessee

In-N-Out Burger, California's first "drive-thru" hamburger stand founded by Harry and Esther Snyder in 1948, today announced intentions to open future restaurants in Tennessee with an Eastern territory office to be built in the city of Franklin.

“We are very excited to provide Tennesseans with our quality burgers, fries and shakes,” said Lynsi Snyder, In-N-Out owner, president and sole granddaughter of Harry and Esther. “In every decision I make, I always consider what my family would want...

Mintec and Urner Barry combine to create a market leading Price Reporting Agency and Data Provider

The combined company will be a global market leader focused on the Agri/Food and FMCG end-markets, offering a set of proprietary data including benchmark prices, price forecasts, cost modelling and market insights, delivered through an innovative SaaS platform.

Mintec, the leading global provider of price data, analytics, and forecasts for agri-food, today announced the acquisition of AgriBriefing, which includes the brands Urner Barry, Strategie Grains, FeedInfo and Tropical Research Services. Building on previous acquisitions by Mintec – Kairos Commodities and CommoPrices – this establishes the combined company as the largest agri-food-focused PRA and global information provider with a unique portfolio of feed-to-food commodity prices, forecasts, cost modeling tools and fundamental market data, serving over 5,000 customers in 50 countries.

Zaxby's Welcomes Carl Mount as New Chief Supply Chain Officer

Saucy chicken chain Zaxby's welcomes Carl Mount as chief supply chain officer effective January 17. With 25 years of experience, Mount comes to Zaxby's most recently from Starbucks, where he served as senior vice president for supply chain operations. Prior to his Starbucks tenure, Mount was head of supply chain for KFC Global. At Zaxby's, Mount will manage partnerships across the supply chain industry to maximize the investments of franchisees.

"Having served in roles both in supply chain and procurement for global brands, Carl will help us optimize solutions that...

Steakholder Foods Ltd. Announces Closing of $6.5 Million Public Offering

Steakholder Foods Ltd. (Nasdaq: STKH) ("Steakholder Foods" or the "Company"), an international deep-tech food company at the forefront of the cultivated meat industry, today announced the closing of its previously announced underwritten public offering of 6,500,000 American Depositary Shares ("ADSs"), (or ADS equivalents in lieu thereof) and warrants to purchase up to 6,500,000 ADSs at a public offering price of $1.00 per ADS (and accompanying warrant) for aggregate gross proceeds of $6.5 million, before deducting underwriting discounts and other offering expenses...

Pat O'Toole Appointed Chief Marketing Officer of Burger King U.S. & Canada

Today, Burger King® announced Patrick (Pat) O’Toole will join the brand as Chief Marketing Officer, beginning Feb. 6. O’Toole will be accountable for leading marketing efforts to help grow traffic, accelerate sales growth and amplify the fundamental advancements the brand is making to the Guest experience — in support of the brand’s existing Reclaim the Flame plan shared in 2022 — and supported by more than 96% of Burger King Franchisees nationwide.

“We are excited to welcome Pat to the Burger King leadership team and broader BK family...

USPOULTRY President John Starkey Announces Retirement

John Starkey has announced his upcoming retirement as president of U.S. Poultry & Egg Association (USPOULTRY). A search committee for his replacement will be formed at the January USPOULTRY board meeting, and a selection process and timeline will be established. Once a successor is in place, Starkey will remain available in an advisory role for the remainder of 2023.

Starkey has been president of USPOULTRY since August 2007 when he succeeded retiring president, Don Dalton. He began his professional career as an environmental engineer for Gold Kist in Atlanta in 1982 after completing his...

Texas Roadhouse, Inc. Appoints Gina Tobin President

Texas Roadhouse, Inc. (Nasdaq: TXRH), announced today that its Chief Learning and Culture Officer, Gina Tobin, has been promoted to President, a post which has been held by CEO Jerry Morgan since 2021.

Ms. Tobin, a 27-year veteran of Texas Roadhouse, has served in a variety of roles throughout her career at Texas Roadhouse, including as a Managing Partner, Market Partner, Vice President of Training, and most recently as Chief Learning and Culture Officer.

In addition to her current duties overseeing Food, Service, Training, Research & Development, and Diversity & Inclusion, Tobin...

Denny's Welcomes Celebrated Industry Leader Sherri Landry as Chief Marketing Officer

Denny's Corporation (NASDAQ: DENN) today announced the appointment of Sherri Landry as Senior Vice President, Chief Marketing Officer (CMO). Landry will lead the marketing team and report to President of Denny's Inc., John Dillon.

Landry brings more than 25 years of deep expertise in the restaurant industry and a proven track record of delivering innovation and sales growth across restaurant brands. She joins Denny's from CEC Entertainment where she served as Chief Marketing Officer overseeing multiple brands, including Chuck E...

Chief Financial Officer Natalie Knight to Leave Ahold Delhaize

Ahold Delhaize today announces that Natalie Knight, CFO since 2020, has informed the company that she will pursue another career opportunity in the United States of America, and will leave Ahold Delhaize. A six months’ notice period applies. The search for a successor has started.

Frans Muller, President & Chief Executive Officer Ahold Delhaize said: “Although her time at Ahold Delhaize has been short, I respect Natalie’s decision to move her family back to the United States after more than 25 years in Europe. During her tenure here...

USDA Announces Major Program Improvements, Progress, and Investments to Benefit American Farmers

Today, at the American Farm Bureau Federation annual convention, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced several major developments at the U.S. Department of Agriculture that will benefit farmers, ranchers and producers across the nation.

“At USDA, our goal is to provide all farmers, including new and underserved producers, with the opportunity to receive the assistance they need to continue farming, to build and maintain their competitive-edge, and to access more, new, and better markets,” said Vilsack, who spoke at the American Farm Bureau Federation...

Imports Drop Below 2 Million TEU As Pandemic-Driven Shipping Surge Comes to an End

With a pandemic-driven surge finally over, monthly import cargo volume at the nation’s major container ports has fallen below the 2 million TEU mark and should remain there through most of this spring, according to the Global Port Tracker report released today by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates.

“Ports have been stretched to their limits and beyond but are getting a break as consumer demand moderates amid continued inflation and high interest rates,” NRF Vice President for Supply...

Cargill Announces CFO Transition

Cargill today announced that Jamie Miller will step down as Chief Financial Officer to accept an opportunity outside the company. Joanne Knight will serve as Cargill’s acting CFO.

“We are grateful for Jamie’s service to Cargill,” said Brian Sikes, Cargill President and CEO. “Over the last few years, we have further strengthened our business model, expanded our business portfolio, and are well-positioned for long-term success.” Miller will leave Cargill on Jan. 13, 2023.

Sikes added: “Joanne is highly regarded by the Board and Executive Team for her strong track record...

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc. Releases “North Star” Five-Point Plan to Drive Long-Term Value

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc. (NASDAQ: RRGB) ("Red Robin" or the "Company"), a full-service restaurant chain serving an innovative selection of high-quality gourmet burgers and American favorites in a family-friendly atmosphere, today released its “North Star” five-point plan to drive long-term shareholder value. The Company also reported preliminary, unaudited revenue results for the fourth quarter ended December 25, 2022 and announced it is evaluating a Sale-Leaseback transaction...

Grocers' Websites Were Well-Prepared for Holiday Shopping Spike, but Struggled on Fulfillment

Incisiv, a next-generation industry insights firm that helps retailers and brands navigate digital disruption, and Wynshop, the leading provider of digital commerce and fulfillment solutions for local-store based retailers, today revealed the findings from their State of Digital Grocery 2022 Performance Scorecard on Grocery Doppio. The scorecard provides a quantitative look back on the growth and changes in the digital grocery market in 2022, including new data for the month of December and grocers' outlook for 2023...

Chipotle Launches New Rewards Perk and Gives Fans Chance to Win Free Chipotle for a Year

Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE: CMG) today announced it is launching "Freepotle," a new Chipotle Rewards perk that gives members up to ten free food drops throughout 2023. All existing Chipotle Rewards members will be automatically enrolled in "Freepotle", and non-members can gain access to "Freepotle" by joining the Chipotle Rewards program by March 6. As part of the new perk, all current Rewards members will get their first free food drop, a side or topping of guac, from January 9 to January 15...

BurgerFi Provides Fiscal Year 2022 Business Update

BurgerFi International, Inc. (Nasdaq: BFI, BFIIW) (“BurgerFi” or the “Company”), owner of one of the nation’s leading fast-casual “better burger” dining concepts through the BurgerFi brand, and the high-quality, casual dining pizza brand under the name Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza & Wings (“Anthony’s”), today reported preliminary sales results for the year ended January 2, 2023. The Company also has introduced its business outlook for fiscal year 2023.

Management Commentary

Ophir Sternberg, Executive Chairman of BurgerFi, stated, “2022 was a transformative year for the company

Panera Announces New Toasted Baguettes Sandwiches

Today, Panera Bread announces the launch of three new sandwiches, Toasted Baguettes, available at Panera bakery-cafes nationwide on January 12. Available in three crave-worthy options, new Toasted Baguettes feature Panera's iconic baguette packed with generous flavor. The three new delicious and hand-crafted Toasted Baguette flavor offerings—Green Goddess Caprese, Pepperoni Mozzarella and Smoky Buffalo Chicken—mark the first time Panera has created a sandwich on its signature French baguette. Plus, MyPanera members will receive early access to Toasted Baguettes now through January 11*. The launch of Toasted Baguettes builds on Panera's...

Ranking Member Boozman's Statement on Chairwoman Stabenow’s Announcement

U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR), ranking member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, released the following statement regarding Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow’s announcement that she will not seek re-election to the Senate after serving out the end of her term.

“I appreciate Chairwoman Stabenow’s leadership and our history of working well together to get important legislation, both to help producers and ensure children have access to healthy and nutritious meals during the summer, passed into law. We will continue...

Texas Roadhouse, Inc. CFO Announces Retirement Following 24-Year Career

Texas Roadhouse, Inc. (Nasdaq: TXRH), announced today that after more than two decades at the Company, its Chief Financial Officer, Tonya Robinson, has retired effective January 4, 2023.

“Tonya has provided tremendous value throughout her 24-year career at Texas Roadhouse, rising from Staff Accountant to CFO,” said Jerry Morgan, CEO and President of Texas Roadhouse. “We wish Tonya the best as she begins her next chapter in life,” Morgan added.

Ms. Robinson joined Texas Roadhouse in 1998...

Women in Food & Agriculture Mentorship Program 2023 – Applications Now Open

Women in Food & Agriculture are delighted to announce their Mentorship Program is now accepting new applications for mentors and mentees from across the global food and agriculture sector. Developed in partnership with Alltech, the initiative is open to all in the industry, with female mentees and would-be mentors of any gender being asked to apply. Now in its third year, the free-to-join program, sponsored by Alltech, supports women in food and agriculture by providing participants with an opportunity to grow meaningful and mutually beneficial industry connections and gain advice, confidence and assistance. Applicants are personally matched based on their preferences, which can include gender, areas of expertise, language and industry sector.

Applications can be submitted year-round but with the deadline for participating in the first cohort being 31st January 2023...

UB Consulting: Labor, Inflation, & Stagflation - What Does it Mean for Protein Commodity Markets?

The current state of the economy has been a topic of concern for much of 2022. And to some degree, rightly so. It has been no secret that living costs have increased throughout the year, with consumers experiencing inflation levels not seen in over 40 years. Fear of recession continues as consumer sentiment hovered around all-time lows for much of the year. Despite the negative attitudes around the market, the economy has been resilient on the labor front, recording low unemployment figures...

New Retail Data Now Available on COMTELL!

Urner Barry, the leading provider of protein market news and information in the food industry, is announcing a long-awaited improvement to the retail coverage on COMTELL.

Urner Barry has completely overhauled its COMTELL retail intelligence to enhance both value and utility of data within the site. As a key element of this improvement, Urner Barry is now utilizing scanner data from IRI (Information Resources, Inc), a leading global analytics and data provider in the retail space.

Most upgrades to COMTELL are driven by user feedback and this new feature addresses...

Conagra Brands Reports Second Quarter Results

Today Conagra Brands, Inc. (NYSE: CAG) reported results for the second quarter of fiscal year 2023, which ended on November 27, 2022. All comparisons are against the prior-year fiscal period, unless otherwise noted.

Highlights

- Second quarter net sales increased 8.3%; organic net sales increased 8.6%

- Operating margin increased 320 basis points in the quarter to 16.6%; adjusted operating margin increased 237 basis points to 17.0%

- Diluted earnings per share (EPS) for the second quarter increased 38.6% to $0.79, and adjusted EPS increased 26.6% to $0.81...

Heritage Capital Group Advises St. Johns Food Service on Sale

Heritage Capital Group, Inc., an investment banking and financial advisory firm serving middle-market and emerging growth companies in the U.S. and worldwide, is pleased to announce that its client, St. Johns Food Service, has been acquired by an investor group led by the owners of Alhambra Theater and Dining.

St. Johns Food Service was founded in 1949 by a local veterinarian, Dr. Ronald F. Jackson, who rented frozen locker space to local restaurants. Dr. Jackson saw the need for food service products, and began adding product lines...

Dine Brands Global Announces Executive Leadership Changes

Dine Brands Global, Inc. (NYSE: DIN), the parent company of Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar®, IHOP®, and Fuzzy’s Taco Shop® restaurants, today announces key leadership moves, each effective on January 6, 2023. John Cywinski, Applebee’s President, is leaving the company for a CEO position at another restaurant company. Tony Moralejo, who is currently President, Dine Brands International and Global Development, has been appointed President, Applebee’s U.S. Scott Gladstone, Senior Vice President of Strategy and Innovation, will step into the role of President, International and Corporate Development...

QDOBA Mexican Eats Kicks Off New Year with Weekly 'Crave & Save' Deals

To help give its fans more reasons to celebrate in the New Year, QDOBA, a leading fast-casual Mexican restaurant, is offering exclusive online promotions every week in January with its Crave & Save deals! Knowing the New Year often brings new financial resolutions, QDOBA will reveal an exclusive new deal every Monday in January to guests who order online or through the QDOBA app at participating locations across the U.S. and Canada only. This week, guests can enjoy $5 off orders of $25 with code "GIMME5"...

Capital Tacos Set to More Than Triple Its Footprint In 2023

As we embark on the New Year, Capital Tacos, the emerging corner taco shop turned nationally-awarded Tex-Mex restaurant franchise, is gearing up for a period of unprecedented growth. 2022 was a year that exceeded the brand's expressed expectations and left it ready to establish franchised and corporate brick-and-mortar flagships in states throughout the country in 2023.

The momentum of the Capital Tacos brand has become undeniable in these last 12 months. Its first brick & mortar outside Tampa, based in Winter Park, FL, opened to much...

SpartanNash Acquires Great Lakes Foods

Food solutions company SpartanNash (the “Company”) (Nasdaq: SPTN) announced that it has acquired Great Lakes Foods, an independent grocery wholesaler, including its 300,000-square-foot distribution center in Menominee, Mich. The warehouse serves approximately 100 independent grocery customers across the Midwest and employs 125 Associates. SpartanNash will continue to employ the Great Lakes Foods team while investing in capital and IT updates to the facility and expanding service offerings to customers.

“This acquisition represents SpartanNash’s ongoing commitment to optimize our supply chain network, drive growth through geographic expansion, and serve our customers more efficiently,” said...

The Retail Rundown: Exploring COMTELL’s Revamped Retail Section

Urner Barry, the leading provider of protein news and information in the food industry, has overhauled the retail section on COMTELL by utilizing scanner data from Information Resources, Incorporated (IRI), a leading global analytics and data provider from the retail space.  

Through the data from IRI, COMTELL now features a vastly larger database of retail items and related statistics, including hundreds more seafood items and 3 to 5 times as many meat and poultry items. Lamb, veal, and sausage items are also now represented.  

Each new item contains...

BrandSpark International Announces 5th Annual Most Trusted Grocery Retailers in America

In partnership with Newsweek and Winsight Grocery Business, BrandSpark International announces the fifth annual grocery edition of its BrandSpark Most Trusted Awards, as voted by American shoppers. BrandSpark surveyed 10,082 Americans in the BrandSpark American Grocery Trust Study to capture their real opinions of which grocery stores they trust the most. Trust leaders were identified by 8 store formats nationally and in four major regions and across 36 key attributes as well as the top 5 grocery retailers nationally.

After a year of spiking prices for household groceries...

Giant Food Debuts New Campaign Focused on Local Impact

Today, Giant Food, the leading greater Washington D.C. regional grocery chain, announces its new brand campaign, "Find Your Local." Dedicated to all things local, the campaign theme calls attention to Giant's longtime commitment to the communities it serves across areas of educational programs, partnerships, and product offerings.

Running through the end of the year and featuring four vignettes from real Giant shoppers —Marcellus, Isabelle, Diane, and Courtney, the spots highlight the connections Giant forms with customers through benefits like its Healthy Living programs and its commitment to sourcing local...

Statement by Agriculture Secretary: Following the Swearing in of Jose Emilio Esteban, Ph.D.

Today, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack made the following statement after the swearing in of Jose Emilio Esteban, Ph.D. as the Under Secretary for Food Safety at the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

“Dr. Esteban has a long and well-documented commitment to food safety and public health. With over two decades of experience at USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service, he has been on the front lines of protecting the public from foodborne illness for much of his career. I am confident that Dr. Esteban’s leadership and experience...

Jenny Craig Debuts Jenny Fresh, a Line of Fresh Entrees That Are Fully Prepared and Delivered

Jenny Craig, a leader in weight loss and weight management, is expanding its robust menu of nearly 100 food options with the launch of Jenny Fresh, a line of mouthwatering entrees that are prepared fresh and delivered directly to customers' doors. Jenny Fresh will be sold separately from Jenny Craig's weight loss and healthy meal plans, but can be integrated seamlessly into programs should new and existing members choose to.

Each meal in the Jenny Fresh bundle was developed by nutritionists...

Blaze Pizza Names Beto Guajardo Chief Executive Officer

Blaze Pizza, the nation's leading fast-casual franchise pizza brand, announced today the appointment of Beto Guajardo as its new president and chief executive officer. Guajardo formerly served as president of Focus Brands International.

Guajardo joins Blaze Pizza after overseeing the international business at Focus Brands, which included more than $400 million of chain sales in over 50 markets with 1,900 restaurants, 100 franchisees and eight brands (Cinnabon, Auntie Anne's, Jamba, Seattle's Best Coffee, Moe's Southwest Grill, McAlister's Deli, and Schlotzsky's). Before being promoted to this role, Guajardo was responsible...

SONIC Brings Affordable Value to the Drive-In with New Under $2 Craves

SONIC Drive-In is introducing a new Under $2 Craves menu filled with flavorful ways to satisfy your cravings for any occasion at a great value. Available at SONIC locations nationwide, the new menu features classic SONIC favorites including the Jr. Cheeseburger and FRITOS® Chili Cheese Jr. Wrap, along with new Sweet Minis sundae treats.

Guests can enjoy items from the Under $2 Craves menu alone as a snack or build them into a meal.

- Want a classic? Go for a...

NRF Economist Says Balance Between Inflation and Interest Rates is Key to Avoiding Recession

It’s too soon to say whether the Federal Reserve’s efforts to reduce inflation will lead to a recession, but continuing interest rate hikes increase the chances, National Retail Federation Chief Economist Jack Kleinhenz said today.

“This year starts with the possibility of easing inflation but also uncertainty,” Kleinhenz said, referring to the interest rate hikes. “There is no easy fix for inflation, and the Fed’s job of trying to bring down rising prices without damaging the labor market or the rest of the economy is not...

Feel Good and Do Good With First Watch’s New Seasonally Inspired Menu

First Watch, the leading Daytime Dining concept with more than 455 restaurants nationwide, is inviting guests to refresh, reset and realize their health-focused resolutions with a new seasonal menu featuring light, flavorful dishes. From an antioxidant-rich açai bowl topped with fresh berries to breakfast tacos packed full of chorizo-spiced cauliflower, First Watch’s latest seasonal selections are here to help jump start the new year with guilt-free and satisfying intentions.

“As much as I love all the richness that comes with the holiday season...

Chipotle Inspires Fans to Maintain New Year's Resolutions with New Lifestyle Bowls

Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE: CMG) today announced it is kicking off 2023 with a new lineup of Lifestyle Bowls that cater to contemporary wellness habits. The brand is also launching a wellness-inspired AR Lens on Snapchat to encourage fans to maintain healthy habits, plus it will reward 100,000 fans who participate with free guac.*

Live Your Best Lifestyle

The recent definition of health has shifted away from diet culture, with Millennial and Gen Z consumers following individualized, holistic interpretations of wellness...

Albertsons Companies Provides Update on Legal Proceedings in State of Washington

Albertsons Companies, Inc. (NYSE: ACI) (“Albertsons Cos.” or “the Company”) announced that the State of Washington Supreme Court has granted the Company’s motion to hold an expedited review of the temporary restraining order (“TRO”) against the Company’s previously announced $6.85 per common share Special Dividend (the “Special Dividend”). The date for the review has been moved forward to January 17, 2023, having previously been set for February 9, 2023.

Albertsons Cos. continues to maintain that the claim brought by the Attorney General of the...