May’s Retail Sales Show Consumer Resilience and Confidence in the Economy

Retail sales rose 0.5 percent in May seasonally adjusted from April and up 3.2 percent unadjusted year-over-year, the National Retail Federation said today. The numbers exclude automobile dealers, gasoline stations and restaurants.

“Today’s retail numbers, and upward revisions to prior months, reinforce the ongoing strength of the consumer and are consistent with a pick up in the pace of the economy in the coming months. The strong job market, recent income gains and elevated confidence translates into ongoing support for spending. Households, in the aggregate, are in solid financial condition but an escalation in trade tariffs will undoubtedly create a considerable downdraft to confidence and spending, or lead to...

While Restaurant Delivery gets All the Buzz, Digital Orders Overall Grow by Double-Digits

The growing access to foodservice delivery has garnered lots of attention from the marketplace and media, but while delivery grabs the spotlight, digital restaurant orders overall steadily grow by double-digits, reports The NPD Group. Restaurant digital orders, which are defined by meals or snacks ordered via mobile app, internet, or text message, have grown by 23 percent over the past four years and now represent 3.1 billion visits and $26.8 billion dollars. NPD forecasts digital orders to continue to grow by double-digits through 2020 with growth across all service modes including delivery, on premises, and carryout, according to NPD’s Delivering Digital Convenience report.

Although convenience is understandably the top reason consumers choose digital ordering, other top reasons include: no waiting; the ability to order, pay, and have it ready; ordering at my “own” pace; and earning rewards/feeling valued. In addition to these reasons...

Affluent Food Shoppers More Likely to Purchase Natural and Organic Products

The belief that natural and organic practices produce foods that are tastier, more nutritious, and healthier continues to germinate in the minds of key consumer demographics. The result has created a pervasive and enduring trend that spreads to virtually every corner of the food and beverage industry.

Wealthy Americans are among the most influential and active participants in the natural and organic food market, according to Affluent Food Shoppers, a new report by market research firm Packaged Facts.

Packaged Facts’ consumer survey data found that affluent food shoppers are increasingly moving in the direction of eating more organic and natural foods. They are more likely than non-affluent food shoppers to respond that they are eating more natural foods or organic certified foods compared to...

ALLETE Clean Energy's Diamond Spring Wind Project Will Provide Renewable Energy to Corporations

Allete Clean Energy, a wholly owned subsidiary of ALLETE (NYSE: ALE), announced today a power sales agreement with Smithfield Foods, Inc. for the remaining output of the Diamond Spring wind site ALLETE Clean Energy will build, own and operate in Oklahoma.

The Smithfield agreement follows an earlier announcement of power sale agreements with two large Fortune 500 companies, Walmart and Starbucks. Walmart has agreed to purchase 175 megawatts for 15 years, Smithfield will purchase 75 megawatts for 12 years, and Starbucks will purchase 50 megawatts for 15 years. The approximately 300-megawatt Diamond Spring site, which is ALLETE Clean Energy’s first project to sell wind power to corporate customers, is now fully contracted with the Smithfield agreement...

Chairman Roberts Hears from Administration on Current, Future Ag Trade Efforts

U.S. Senator Pat Roberts, R-Kan., Chairman of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, today held a hearing titled, “Certainty in Global Markets for the U.S. Agriculture Sector.”

Below are Chairman Roberts’ remarks as prepared for delivery:

"Good morning. I call this meeting of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, & Forestry to order.

Ambassador Doud, Undersecretary McKinney, and Dr. Johansson, we are happy to have you all back again before the Committee to discuss the need for certainty in our global agricultural markets...

Consumer Disloyalty is the New Normal

Assume the people you consider to be the most loyal customers on the planet are, in fact, disloyal. Because 92% of the time, you’ll be right. New Nielsen findings demonstrate that just 8% of consumers consider themselves to be firmly committed loyalists.

Yet the marketing tactics and investments rarely reflect these realities. A whopping 46% of consumers tell us they are more likely to try new brands than they were five years ago; a clear signal to a trend we should expect to intensify. Yet we see few signs that adjustments have been made to marketing initiatives or innovation pipelines to match these numbers.

The implications of not dramatically rethinking campaigns that focus on winning or retaining loyal customers are meaningful. The drag effect of consumer demand for choice and...

Kroger and Ocado Break Ground on America's First High-Tech Customer Fulfillment Center

The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR), America's largest grocery retailer, and Ocado (LSE: OCDO), one of the world's largest dedicated online grocery retailers, today broke ground on America's first customer fulfillment center (CFC).

"Kroger is incredibly excited to reach this meaningful milestone in our Restock Kroger vision to serve America through food inspiration and uplift," said Rodney McMullen, Kroger's chairman and CEO. "Our partnership with Ocado will introduce transformative ecommerce, fulfillment and logistics technology in the U.S. and bring customers fresher food faster than ever before, accelerating our ability to provide anything, anytime, anywhere...

Technomic: Students’ Foodservice Demands Grow Both On and Off Campus

Delivery, technology and health trends are changing the foodservice landscape and younger generations are leading this charge. Technomic’s 2019 College & University Consumer Trend Report explores this segment in depth, providing actionable recommendations for operators and suppliers to get ahead of the challenges and competition.

“Students have high expectations from their foodservice experiences both on and off campus. Delivery, convenience and menu innovation are all top priorities for college and university students,” explains Anne Mills, senior manager of consumer insights at Technomic. “On top of this, they will choose companies that support causes they care about such as...

Retailers Continue to Stock Up Inventory to Get Ahead of More Tariffs

Imports at the nation’s major retail container ports are expected to continue to grow this summer as retailers stock up inventory to get ahead of higher tariffs, according to the monthly Global Port Tracker report released today by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates.

“With a major tariff increase already announced and the possibility that tariffs could be imposed on nearly all goods and inputs from China, retailers are continuing to stock up while they can to protect their customers as much as possible against the price increases that will follow,” NRF Vice President for Supply Chain and Customs Policy Jonathan Gold said. “Tariffs are taxes paid by American businesses and consumers, not foreign governments. Retailers will continue to do everything they possibly can to mitigate the impact of tariffs on consumers, but if we see further escalation in the trade war, it will be much more difficult to avoid higher price tags on a wide range of products...

Walmart is Taking Grocery Delivery One Step Further

Consumers have more options than ever before when it comes to how they receive their groceries. Customers can shop in stores, order online for free pickup, or have groceries delivered to their front doors. Now, Walmart is on track to offer Grocery Pickup from 3,100 stores and same-day Grocery Delivery from 1,600 stores by the end of the year. To make grocery shopping an even easier experience for customers, Walmart is offering the option to order fresh groceries and have them be delivered directly into their refrigerator.

Walmart InHome Delivery is a new service designed to help consumers save time and offer another convenient option for grocery shopping. Customers can place a grocery order and then select InHome Delivery and a delivery date at checkout. Then, consumers can go about their daily routine while a Walmart associate completes their grocery shopping for them, from aisle to fridge...

This Week in Retail: Looking Ahead to Father’s Day Spending

Father’s Day is coming up on Sunday, June 16^th, and retailers are prepping for the second big grilling holiday of the summer.

According to the National Retail Federation, Father’s Day spending in 2019 is expected to reach an all-time high of $16 billion. That’s up from last year’s $15.3 billion. This monumental spending figure still, however, pales in comparison to spending for Mother’s Day, coming in at a whopping $25 billion.

Mother’s Day has long been known as a foodservice holiday, but Father’s Day tends to favor grilling at home with some quality steaks, burgers, chops or ribs. The NRF also reports that spending for Father’s Day has grown 70 percent over the last decade, with special outings playing a big part of that growth, accounting for a projected $3.3 billion. With 76 percent of...

Tim Hortons Announces Agreement to Launch in Thailand

Tim Hortons announced today that it has entered into an exclusive master franchise and development agreement to develop the Tim Hortons brand in Thailand with WeEat Company, part of the Wattanavekin family group of companies.

"We are very excited to grow the Tims brand in Thailand as part of our broader global growth strategy," said Tim Hortons President Alex Macedo. "Thailand has a thriving coffee market and our partner has a deep understanding of the Thai market, which we believe will position us well for success in the country."

Tim Hortons believes that it can replicate in Thailand its recent successes in other international markets by featuring a strong core hot and cold beverage platform, a localized food menu and prominent Canadian branding in the restaurant design to celebrate the brand's Canadian heritage...

United Natural Foods Inc Reports Third Quarter Fiscal 2019 Results

United Natural Foods, Inc. (NYSE: UNFI) (the "Company" or "UNFI") today reported financial results for the third quarter of fiscal 2019 ended April 27, 2019.

Third Quarter Fiscal 2019 Highlights

• Net Sales Increased to $5.96 Billion, Including $3.24 Billion from SUPERVALU
• Earnings Per Diluted Share (EPS) of $1.12; Adjusted EPS of $0.61
• Integration of SUPERVALU Progressing; UNFI Now Operating As One Company with A National Leadership Team and Structure

"Our transformational journey continues, and I'm proud of what our team has accomplished this quarter," said Steven L. Spinner, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. "I am excited about our next chapter and the acceleration of value creation we expect to...

RestaurantOwner.com: Restaurant Delivery Report 

RestaurantOwner.com's published results of their 2019 Restaurant Delivery Survey focuses on the growing trend of restaurant delivery and summarizes input gathered from nearly 1,000 independent restaurant owners and operators regarding their experiences with self-delivery and third-party service providers, and their insights regarding restaurant delivery.

Survey Results:

Restaurant delivery has become available in most independent restaurants, with 57% of operators offering some form of delivery. Moreover, 16% of the operators without delivery plan to add the service within a year. Of operators who offered delivery, 31% used only third-party services, 12% operated in-house delivery services, and 14% relied on...

Good Eggs Releases Results of Family Food Fix Survey 

Good Eggs, the online market that delivers absurdly fresh groceries, today announced the results of its Family Food Fix Survey, which takes a pulse on the perspectives and behaviors of today's consumers when it comes to the necessary task of grocery shopping. Additionally, the findings reveal insights into meal kit usage, the reality of preparing multiple dinners every night, and what families across America want most for dinner.

"From grocery shopping to getting dinner on the table, feeding a family has become a time-consuming struggle for today's busy parents," said Jaime Nessel, Vice President of Assortment of Good Eggs. "Online grocery delivery services can provide significant time savings to families. At Good Eggs, we provide a complete, yet curated assortment of local products, absurdly fresh local produce and meat...

Cracker Barrel Reports Third Quarter Fiscal 2019 Results

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. ("Cracker Barrel" or the "Company") (Nasdaq: CBRL) today reported its financial results for the third quarter of fiscal 2019 ended May 3, 2019.

Third Quarter Fiscal 2019 Highlights

• Comparable store restaurant sales growth of 1.3% and traffic of -1.8% outperformed the casual dining industry.
• Earnings per diluted share were $2.09, a 3.0% increase compared to $2.03 in the prior year third quarter.
• The Company announced its Board of Directors increased the quarterly dividend to $1.30 per share on...

Mintel Announces Five U.S. Flavor and Ingredient Trends 

Mintel, the world’s leading market intelligence agency, announced from IFT19 the flavor and ingredient trends that are influencing the foodservice and packaged food and drink categories in 2019 and beyond. The five new trends link the relationship between consumer behavior and food and drink to dishes on restaurant menus and products on store shelves, and explain the significant momentum that has led to this moment.

Seeking out ingredients that provide sustenance for healthy eating is top of mind for Americans. However, consumers today are also looking beyond the balanced diet. Flavors that tap into relaxation and support a healthy gut are satisfying consumers that are looking for ingredients that will feed the mind, body, and soul...

Damian Mason: He's The Real Deal

This week we hear from agricultural humorist, book author, speaker, farm owner, podcast host, and consumer trend expert, Damian Mason. We cover packaging, lab grown meat, retail and more!

Did you know? Urner Barry's Market Digest Podcast is now available on Spotify, iTunes, Apple Podcast, iHeartRadio, and SoundCloud! More ways to listen to top industry news and analysis...

SpartanNash Appoints New President of Food Distribution

SpartanNash (Nasdaq: SPTN) announced today that Mr. Walt Lentz has joined the company as Executive Vice President and President, Food Distribution, effective May 31, 2019. Mr. Lentz has 32 years of logistics and supply chain experience in roles of increasing leadership responsibility, including serving from 2017 to 2019 as Acting Chief Executive Officer and Chief Supply Chain Officer of Peapod LLC, the grocery eCommerce business division of Ahold Delhaize.

As President of Food Distribution, Mr. Lentz will have full responsibility of SpartanNash’s $4 billion food distribution segment and responsibility for the total company supply chain. He will work with the SpartanNash team in developing and executing strategic plans to grow the wholesale distribution and food manufacturing businesses’ profitability. Mr. Lentz will report to SpartanNash’s President and Chief Executive Officer, David M. Staples...

Industry Reacts to Final E15 Rule

Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency issued a final rule to allow consumers uninterrupted access to E15, a fuel blend with 15% ethanol. The announcement follows a public comment period on a proposed rule and in time for the summer season. The rule changes the old limitations on year-round E15, allowing consumers to have access to the clean, lower-cost option at the pump all year. Previously, sales were restricted in a majority of markets from June 1st to September 15th. President Trump fulfilled the commitment he made to rural voters and is a huge win for farmers.

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue stated that, "I appreciate President Trump’s steadfast support for our patriotic farmers and for his commitment to expand the sale of E15 and unleash the full potential of American innovation and ingenuity as we continue to demonstrate our rightful place as the world’s leader in agricultural and energy production." Perdue explained that the move to approve the year-round use of E15 in time for the summer driving season provides consumers with...

Restaurant Performance Index Fell Sharply in April

As a result of softer readings in both the current situation and forward-looking indicators, the National Restaurant Association’s Restaurant Performance Index (RPI) fell sharply in April. The RPI – a monthly composite index that tracks the health of and outlook for the U.S. restaurant industry – stood at 100.1 in April, down 1.8 percent from a level of 101.9 in March.

April’s RPI decline was the result of broad-based softening in both the current situation and expectations indicators. Although same-store sales readings were slightly positive in April, customer traffic turned negative. In addition, restaurant operators are less optimistic about both sales growth and the overall economy...

This Week in Retail: Wholesale vs. Retail Action

There are two sides to every story, and the retail meat situation is no different. This week in retail, we look at some of the dynamics at play in the wholesale arena for beef and pork and how retail has responded.

There seems to be a contra-seasonal trend happening in the wholesale boxed beef market, for grilling items in particular. The loin complex—where we get strip steaks, T-bones, porterhouse steaks and filets—is currently moving in a contrary direction to its historical norms, residing at multi-year lows.

When we look at the retail items derived from this market, bone-in rib steaks are featured nearly 19 percent below year ago levels, at an average $7.19 per pound. Boneless strip steaks are down a whopping 29 percent from this time last year! Porterhouse steaks are right about on par with year ago levels, while T-bones are down 20 cents per pound. Tenderloin filets are down nearly...

Breaking the Shell: Insight into Specialty Eggs from Egg Innovations

Egg Industry veteran John Brunnquell joins host Laura Zinger and Market Reporter Brian Moscogiuri to talk specialty eggs, getting ahead of market trends, and egg presentation in Europe!

Indulgent Snack Food is Making a Comeback by Walking the Line Between Health and Enjoyment

U.S. consumers are giving themselves permission to enjoy indulgent snacks, reports The NPD Group. Their permission to enjoy savory and sweet snacks is the result of the wellness-driven acknowledgement that balance is the key. Brands are supporting their consumers’ quest for balance by offering snacks that walk the line between health and indulgence, like portion-control packs, thinner versions, or nutrient-enhanced savory and sweet snacks, finds NPD’s recently released Future of Snacking report.

“The role of snack food is changing in different ways in reaction to Americans’ desire for balance, portable snack foods, and holistic wellness,” says David Portalatin, NPD food industry advisor and author of Eating Patterns in America. “It’s no longer about depriving yourself of...

Perdue Responds to UGA Study on USMCA

The University of Georgia recently published a study claiming the new United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement would cost some Georgia vegetable and fruit growers revenue and jobs. The sensational assertions are flat wrong. As a proud UGA alumnus, I’m here to tell you USMCA is good for Georgia’s farmers and all American agriculture.

Chapter by chapter, verse by verse, USMCA improves virtually every component of NAFTA and Georgia’s agriculture industry stands to gain significantly. It’s important to note we didn’t get all the improvements we wanted for seasonal fruits and vegetables. While we were hopeful we could make progress in the renewed NAFTA, USMCA isn’t a step backward. The UGA study assumed we lost ground, but the facts are it wasn’t ground we had to begin with. Since the inception of NAFTA more than 20 years ago, agricultural trade between our three countries has...

ANALYSIS: ASF Update; Changing Global Protein Flows

At the time of this report, African Swine Fever continues to spread generally unchecked through China and has more recently expanded to the neighboring nations of Hong Kong, Vietnam and Cambodia, in addition to the revelation that North Korea has been dealing with it since at least February. The lastest official numbers from China admit a 20.8% drop in the April hog herd vs last year and sow losses of 22.3% year over year. As China is notoriously selective with the amount and accuracy of data that they provide the world, this situation could be...

This Week in Retail: The Memorial Day Rundown

It’s finally here, the unofficial start to summer and the very official start to the grilling season. In the week leading up to Memorial Day weekend, the beef category claims the top spot for protein feature volume at 27 percent, followed by seafood at just under 26 percent.

Chicken managed to knock out pork for the number three spot with 22.5 percent of ad space, leaving pork with 18 percent. Cheaper grilling items like thighs and drumsticks helped boost chicken featuring volume this week. Meanwhile, the beef segment presents the ultimate showdown between ground beef and steak. In the pork complex, we see an increase in pork chop featuring, up nearly 8 percent week over week.

Taking a closer look at the beef complex, Urner Barry’s weekly retail beef index is right on par with the 3-year average at $5.85 per pound. This is down from the previous week’s index of $6.47 per pound. Ground beef features are modestly lower year over year at an average...

Restaurants Face Challenges Tapping into the Summer Labor Pool

According to the National Restaurant Association, summer employment is defined as the average number of eating and drinking place jobs in June, July, and August. Generally, the United States restaurant industry begins to ramp up its seasonal hiring in April, and peaks in June, July, and August. Restaurants are expected to add 515,000 jobs this summer season. Summer is typically the busiest season for restaurants in many parts of the United States, and the increased consumer traffic leads to additional employment opportunities at all levels of a foodservice operation. Roughly one in six food and drinking establishments operate on a seasonal basis, many being during the summer. The seasonal businesses that do all of their hiring for the summer months are responsible for the bulk of additional jobs.

Although the restaurant industry will add more than half a million jobs for the seventh consecutive summer, hiring will be somewhat cut back in 2019, with the projected increase of...

BJ’s Wholesale Club Holdings Inc Announces First Quarter Fiscal 2019 Results

BJ’s Wholesale Club Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: BJ) (the "Company") today announced its financial results for the thirteen weeks ended May 4, 2019.

“We are pleased with our solid start to the year,” said Christopher J. Baldwin, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, BJ’s Wholesale Club. "We delivered merchandise comparable sales of 1.9%, improved margins and continued to grow earnings by executing against our strategic priorities. Looking forward, we continue to see momentum across our business and are encouraged by the opportunities ahead of us, as we continue to transform BJ's Wholesale Club."

“In addition, Robert Steele has been appointed to serve as BJ’s Lead Independent Director,” said Baldwin. “His extensive experience and knowledge of our industry and business will be invaluable to our company.”

Additional Highlights...

Meet Karyn: Introducing Urner Barry's newest Egg Reporter, Karyn Rispoli

In this segment, we discuss the ups and downs of learning the ropes in the Egg Office. Listen in for the scoop on how Brian and Randy make a newcomer into an eggspert...

Technomic: Canadians’ Routines and Habits Present Challenges for Emerging Bakery and Coffee Cafes

In the 2019 Canadian Bakery & Coffee Cafe Consumer Trend Report, Technomic found that many coffee cafe customers stick to the same restaurant brand and, oftentimes, the same cafe location, due to their coffee preferences and demands for convenience. On the other hand, bakery-cafe customers are open to mixing up the brands they visit, challenging these operators to build up loyal customer bases.

“For emerging coffee cafes, the challenge is in getting consumers to break from their routines and try something new,” explains Charles Winship, manager of consumer insights at Technomic. “While specials and limited-time offers can help draw in new visitors, whether these guests habitually return will ultimately come down to value, convenience and, in many cases, coffee.”

Key takeaways from the report include...

Guests can Now Order P.F. Chang's with Uber Eats Across the U.S.

Enjoying P.F. Chang's menu of made-from-scratch favorites just got even easier. Now, guests across the U.S. can order P.F. Chang's using their Uber Eats app.

"Uber Eats is one of the fastest growing off-premise delivery companies in the U.S.," said Tana Davila, P.F. Chang's senior vice president. "We are excited to partner with them and make our food even more accessible to current and new customers."

Uber Eats is fully integrated throughout P.F. Chang's restaurant point-of-sale system, ensuring seamless order placement and timely delivery of orders from the entire made-from-scratch menu in restaurants across the country. P.F. Chang's will continue to offer...

National Restaurant Association President & CEO Announces Retirement

After 12 years successfully leading one of Washington’s largest and most influential trade associations, advancing and protecting all aspects of the restaurant and foodservice industry, National Restaurant Association and National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation President & CEO Dawn Sweeney announced last week that she will step down when her current contract ends at the end of 2019. Until then, she will continue to lead the Association and Foundation, gain Board approval for the 2020-2024 strategic plan, and assist Board leadership in the search for a new CEO.

“Serving and leading the restaurant industry during this historic timeframe, when foodservice has grown to an $863 billion business employing over 15 million professionals, has been the most fulfilling experience of my career,” said Dawn Sweeney. “We have accomplished much together, including...

SpartanNash Announces First Quarter 2019 Financial Results

SpartanNash Company (the "Company") (Nasdaq: SPTN) today reported financial results for the 16-week first quarter ended April 20, 2019.

"We are pleased with our team's efforts to grow net sales across all three business segments, particularly in light of the challenging operating environment," said David Staples, President and Chief Executive Officer. "While we are not satisfied with our bottom-line results for the quarter, our team remains committed to our fiscal 2019 objectives and long-term strategy, which we believe will support both future growth and profitability long-term."

Strategic Business Objectives

As outlined in its fourth quarter earnings release, the Company has defined its top five objectives for 2019. These objectives remain critical in the context of the Company's long-term strategic objective to evolve into a company with a national, highly efficient distribution platform servicing a diverse customer base through...

Whole Foods Market to Further Reduce Plastics Across all Stores

Whole Foods Market today announced that it will eliminate plastic straws from its stores in the U.S., the U.K. and Canada by July 2019, becoming the first national grocer to make this change. In addition, the grocer switched to smaller plastic bags in its produce department this year and is replacing hard plastic rotisserie chicken containers with new bags that use approximately 70 percent less plastic. Together, these packaging changes will reduce an estimated 800,000 pounds of plastic per year.

“For almost 40 years, caring for the environment has been central to our mission and how we operate,” said A.C. Gallo, President and Chief Merchandising Officer at Whole Foods Market. “We recognize that single-use plastics are a concern for many of our customers, Team Members and suppliers, and...

Delivering the Goods: British Courier and Express Delivery Market Hit £12.6 Billion in 2018 

Brits’ love of online shopping* is sending the courier and express delivery market** into double digit growth, according to latest research from Mintel. Last year, courier and express delivery sales increased a spectacular 12% to reach £12.6 billion, thereby completing growth of 62% since 2014. Meanwhile, volume sales increased by 14% alone in 2018 and 66% between 2014 and 2018. Last year, Brits sent an impressive 3.65 billion packages, up from 3.2 billion in 2017.

Over the next five years, the market for courier and express delivery is expected to continue to post first-class sales. Volumes are forecast to maintain double-digit yearly growth, rising by 54% between 2019 and 2023, further surpassing value sales, which are forecast to grow by 42% over the same five year period.

Cost (53%), ease of finding products online (51%) and greater variety (39%) are the top three reasons why Brits are choosing to have products delivered as opposed to shopping in-store...

Sparboe Companies Announces the Sale of its New Hampton, Iowa Plant to Deb El Food Products

Sparboe Companies is pleased to announce the sale of its New Hampton, Iowa plant to Deb El Food Products. Deb El will continue to operate the New Hampton plant, which produces liquid, frozen and dried egg products. Sparboe’s shell egg division, Sparboe Farms, will continue to operate their shell egg facilities in Minnesota, Iowa and Colorado and is not part of the sales agreement.

Beth Schnell, Sparboe CEO says of the agreement “We would like to thank all of our employees in New Hampton for the years of dedication and hard work and wish them the best under new leadership. We are pleased to have partnered with another family owned company in this transaction and look forward to Deb El’s success in New Hampton. Proudly celebrating our 65th anniversary, Sparboe will continue to focus on...

Consumer Pent-Up Demand for Restaurants Remains Elevated

The trend line of restaurant sales was positive during the first four months of 2019, according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau. Eating and drinking place sales totaled $61.5 billion on a seasonally-adjusted basis in April, which represented the fourth consecutive monthly gain after a sluggish second half of 2018.

To be sure, there appears to be more room for growth in the months ahead, according to a national survey conducted May 9-12 by ORC International for the National Restaurant Association. When asked about their current restaurant usage, a significant proportion of the American public say they would like to be patronizing restaurants more often. Forty-two percent of all adults say they are not eating on the premises of restaurants as frequently as they would like, while 48 percent say...

ANALYSIS: Egg Prices Hit Lowest Levels Since 2016

Urner Barry’s benchmark Midwest large egg quote dipped below $0.60 per dozen on Tuesday May 14^th for the 1^st time since October of 2016...

Canada Foreign Minister to Visit Cuba Thursday to Discuss Venezuela

Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland said she will visit Cuba on Thursday to discuss the political crisis in Venezuela and the United States' decision to allow lawsuits for property confiscated after the 1959 revolution.

"It is of critical importance that our two countries meet to discuss the economic, political and humanitarian crisis in Venezuela and the work we can undertake together to address it," Freeland said in a statement on Wednesday.

"I also look forward to discussing how we can work together to defend Canadians conducting legitimate trade and investment in Cuba in light of the United States ending the suspension of Title III of the Helms-Burton Act...

Slower Tax Refunds and Weather Affect April Retail Sales but Fundamentals 'Remain Positive'

Retail sales were down 0.2 percent in April seasonally adjusted from March but up 5.2 percent unadjusted year-over-year, the National Retail Federation said today. The numbers exclude automobile dealers, gasoline stations and restaurants.

“Slower tax refunds and weather may have been key factors impacting April’s numbers, but the fundamentals remain positive, particularly in long-term comparisons,” NRF Chief Economic Jack Kleinhenz said, citing flooding in the middle of the country and blizzards and extreme temperature swings elsewhere along with a soft housing market that impacted sales of furniture, appliances and building materials. “Despite there being a lot of...

FAT Brands Inc Reports Fiscal First Quarter 2019 Financial Results

FAT(Fresh. Authentic. Tasty.) Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: FAT) (“FAT Brands” or the “Company”) today reported fiscal first quarter 2019 financial results for the 13-week period ending March 31, 2019.

Andy Wiederhorn, President and CEO of FAT Brands, commented, “Results in the first quarter reflect continued strength of the Fatburger brand and improvements at the Hurricane brand, offset by softness at Ponderosa and Bonanza Steakhouses.

During the quarter, we continued to execute our key strategic initiatives to drive same-store sales growth across our brands...

Latest Tariff List is ‘Far too Great a Gamble for the U.S. Economy,’ says NRF

The National Retail Federation issued the following statement from President and CEO Matthew Shay after the Trump administration released a list of $300 billion of Chinese goods that will be targeted by additional tariffs of 25 percent.

“We support the administration’s efforts to deliver a meaningful trade agreement that levels the playing field for American businesses and workers. But the latest tariff escalation is far too great a gamble for the U.S. economy. Slapping tariffs on everything U.S. companies import from China – goods that support U.S. manufacturing and provide consumers with affordable products – will jeopardize American jobs and increase costs for consumers.

“Taxing Americans on everyday products like clothes and shoes is not the answer for holding China accountable. Working with our allies who share the same concerns and immediately rejoining TPP are more effective ways to put pressure on China without...

Alibaba Group Announces March Quarter and Full Fiscal Year 2019 Results

Alibaba Group Holding Limited (NYSE: BABA) today announced its financial results for the quarter and fiscal year ended March 31, 2019. “More and more, Alibaba is becoming synonymous with everyday consumption in China, growing our base to 654 million annual active consumers and extending our penetration in less-developed cities,” said Daniel Zhang, Chief Executive Officer of Alibaba Group. “Our cloud and data technology and tremendous traction in New Retail have enabled us to continuously transform the way businesses operate in China and other emerging markets, which will contribute to our long-term growth.”

“We delivered another strong quarter and excellent fiscal year, led by fiscal year revenue growth of 51% as well as robust user growth and engagement across our ecosystem. Excluding the effects of consolidating acquired businesses, revenue would have...

Grain Futures Soar on Delayed Plantings

In the latest Crop Progress report, planting progress continues at a slower than expected pace—causing concern for traders and seeing corn futures up 12 to 13 cents per bushel Tuesday morning.

The USDA reported corn plantings at 30 percent completion as of Sunday, May 12. That’s less than half of what the normal 5-year average rate is at this point in the season. It’s also only a 7 percent increase from the previous week.

Rain and cool weather in the major production areas has hindered planting activities so far this season.

Emergence is also lower than expected, currently at 10 percent. Last year at this time...

PODCAST: Beef Reporter Bruce Longo Talks About the Grilling Season

The seasoned Bruce Longo gets grilled on grilling season's effect on supply, demand, and price...

Walmart Offers One-Day Shipping Without a Membership Fee

When customers shop with us, they expect to find great items at low prices. They also want shopping to be easy and convenient, including getting the items they order online quickly. Our 4,700 stores, site and app combine to create an incredible range of choices for customers.

We started with same-day pickup in our stores in 2011 and began offering two-day free shipping two years ago with no membership fee. But, the most exciting development has been the creation of Grocery Pickup and Delivery. We’re on track to offer Grocery Pickup from 3,100 stores and same-day Grocery Delivery from 1,600 stores by year-end, which will provide coverage to...

Global Food E-Commerce: 5 Growth Trends Through 2023

Global food e-commerce sales are forecast to nearly triple through 2023, rising to $321 billion and accounting for nearly 5% of total e-commerce revenues, according to market research firm Packaged Facts in the new report Global Food E-Commerce.

Packed Facts projects the Asia/Pacific region will account for the majority of absolute growth, primarily due to the rapidly expanding Chinese market. China dominates regional e-grocery activity in part because of the country's large urban population and rapidly expanding middle class. In addition, much of China's very large population has access to high-tech devices and the ability to shop online, due to the country's position at the forefront of technological development and electronics...

NRA: Foodservice Jobs Continue to Rally as Middle-Class Opportunities Expand

The National Restaurant Association recently reported on the state of employment in their industry, with some surprising results.

The key takeaways from their reports were that while the restaurant industry remains one of the most popular for Americans entering the workforce, there’s also great growth as the field experiences an increase in middle-class job creation. Unsurprisingly, restaurant employees have a high rate of turnover between the high seasonality and large population of student workers.

One in three American adults got their first job in...

This Week in Retail: Grocery Outlook for May—Beef, Chicken Steal the Show

It’s finally here—the month that unofficially kicks off the summer grilling season and features several retail buying occasions to boost spending.

May brings about warmer weather conducive to grilling activities, along with graduation parties, Mother’s Day and, of course, the big kahuna—Memorial Day. Healthy demand on the wholesale side has already been evident for some time as packers and processors prepare for retail and foodservice needs.

Mother’s Day is well known to be a foodservice holiday, but increasingly, the grocery segment has managed to compete with foodservice through convenience offerings like prepared foods, meal kits, catering, and deli. And, with the cost of food away from home growing at a faster rate than that of... 

EU-U.S. Trade Talks Expected to Begin This Week

Negotiators from the European Union (EU) are in Washington this week to begin technical trade talks with the U.S., although both sides have not yet agreed to the scope of the discussions. This week's talks will mostly focus on regulatory cooperation ahead of a meeting between U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and EU trade chief Cecilia Malmstrom in Paris on May 22-23. Last month, the EU adopted negotiating directives on two agreements: a trade agreement limited to the elimination of tariffs for industrial goods only, excluding agricultural products, and an agreement on conformity assessment that would have as its objective the...

Retail Imports Rising Ahead of Expected Higher Tariffs

With retail sales rising and President Trump saying he plans to both increase and broaden tariffs on goods from China, imports at the nation’s major retail container ports are expected to see unusually high levels the remainder of this spring and through the summer, according to the monthly Global Port Tracker report released today by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates.

“Much of this is driven by consumer demand but retailers are likely to resume stocking up merchandise before new tariffs can take effect,” NRF Vice President for Supply Chain and Customs Policy Jonathan Gold said. “Tariff increases and new tariffs will mean higher costs for U.S. businesses, higher prices for American consumers and lost jobs for many American workers. We encourage the administration to stay focused on a trade agreement, and...

The Wendy's Company Reports First Quarter 2019 Results

The Wendy's Company (Nasdaq: WEN) today reported unaudited results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2019.

"We delivered strong earnings growth in the first quarter and are proud of our continued progress to build an even stronger foundation for the Wendy's brand," President and Chief Executive Officer Todd Penegor said. "We are executing on our plan to accelerate same-restaurant sales in North America and drive global restaurant expansion, fueled by a healthy restaurant economic model. Our relentless focus on bringing every element of The Wendy's Way to life by providing food our customers love, friendly service, value, and an inviting atmosphere will continue to drive growth in the future...

Walmart Enhances Sustainability in Supply Chains

Walmart Inc. (NYSE: WMT) today issued its inaugural Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Report, which details the company’s goals, progress and achievements for fiscal year 2019 toward its commitment to increase economic opportunity for associates and local communities, build sustainability in supply chains and activate climate change initiatives.

Walmart is disclosing progress to date in several areas including:

Activating Climate Change Initiatives

• Climate Change Impact Scenario Analysis – Walmart worked with an independent third-party consultant to better understand the nature of climate change and potential implications for the retail sector aiming to align with the scenario guidance set forth by the Task Force on...

Meal Kits: Why Older Adults Offer the Ideal Target Market

Think meal kits are a Millennial or Gen Z trend best suited to the novice cooking skills of adults under age 40? Packaged Facts encourages you to reconsider. The market research firm reveals in the report, Meal Kits: Trends and Opportunities in the U.S., 3rd Edition, that older adults provide a wealth of growth opportunities.

Many older consumers are experienced cooks who enjoy a homemade meal. However, as people age, their ability to use their hands and their ability to leave their home to shop for groceries may be diminished.

Older consumers are more likely to have developed conditions such as arthritis and tremors that make it difficult to engage in food preparation tasks, especially chopping and peeling vegetables. Meal kit delivery services can...

Egg Industry Icon, Arthur Papetti, Passes Away

Arthur Papetti, beloved father, grandfather and businessman, passed away on Thursday, May 2, 2019, at the age of 87.

Arthur worked in his family’s business since the age of 11, on a small dairy farm in Elizabeth that started in 1908 when Arthur’s grandparents, Anthony and Mary De Stefano, immigrated from Calabria, Italy. Later, Arthur’s parents evolved the family business into Papetti’s Hygrade Poultry & Eggs, transitioning the family business from dairy to poultry. Arthur and his brother Tony helped their parents deliver fresh, high-quality chicken to their customers all throughout their teen years. Then in the 1960’s, Arthur saw a demand for shelled eggs, and steered the family business into the egg business. Arthur pioneered the egg products industry with dedication and determination to become...

Canadians Choose Restaurants Based Upon the Best Online Reviews According to New Survey

A new Google survey of 1000 Canadians between the ages of 18 and 65+ explores the things that lead to restaurant selection with some interesting results. Canada is enjoying a culinary renaissance, and has become world-renowned for being the epicenter of a food revolution.

There has never been a more exciting time than now, to get out and experience the cornucopia of restaurants in any given urban area. As a result, restaurant owners find themselves in a highly competitive market, vying for customers' patronage.

There are several contributing factors that lead Canadians to choose one restaurant over another. However, regardless of demographics, the most important factor seems to be based upon the best online reviews...

Planting Progress Lags for Corn and Soybeans

In the latest Crop Progress report, the USDA shows corn plantings across the 18 primary production states is currently just 23 percent complete, which is half the normal progress made by this time over the last 5 years.

Planting progress is well-below expectations for this point in the season, having been hindered by rains throughout the Midwest where much of the crop is produced. Every state surveyed has reported lower progress rates than their respective 5-year averages.

Corn emergence is currently at 6 percent, also less than half the average rate. Seven of the 18 production states have yet to report any emerging corn.

Meanwhile, 6 percent of soybeans have been planted so far this season—also...

US Foods Reports First Quarter Fiscal 2019 Earnings 

US Foods Holding Corp. (NYSE: USFD),one of the largest foodservice distributors in the United States, today announced results for the first quarter of fiscal 2019.

First Quarter Fiscal 2019 Highlights

• Total case volume increased 1.4%; independent restaurant case volume increased 5.5%
• Net sales increased 3.6% to $6.0 billion
• Gross profit increased 6.0% to $1,052 million
• Income before income taxes increased $28 million to $91 million
• Net income increased $4 million to $71 million
• Adjusted EBITDA increased 3.6% to...

Postmates and Pei Wei Launch On-Demand Delivery with Free Delivery

Postmates and Pei Wei Asian Kitchen, the leading fresh, Asian fast-casual restaurant, announced that they have partnered to bring Pei Wei's delicious Asian cuisine direct to the customer's doorstep. To celebrate, the companies are providing customers with free delivery. From the new, customizable Bento Boxes to its fresh, house-made Cauliflower Rice, every dish is made to order with quality ingredients, like house-chopped veggies and grass-fed flank steak. Now, you can have any of these delicious offerings delivered right to your door with no delivery fee.

"We are thrilled to add Pei Wei Asian Kitchen to our already long list of partners," said Dan Mosher, SVP, Merchant Lead at Postmates. "Our goal is to provide our customers with the most choices of any delivery platform, giving them the ability to...

Retailers Respond to Administration’s Threat to Raise Tariffs

The National Retail Federation issued the following statement from Senior Vice President for Government Relations David French in response to the President’s threat to raise tariffs on $200 billion of Chinese goods from 10 to 25 percent.

“Tariffs are taxes paid by American businesses and consumers, not by China. A sudden tariff increase with less than a week’s notice would severely disrupt U.S. businesses, especially small companies that have limited resources to mitigate the impact. If the administration follows through on this threat, American consumers will face higher prices and U.S. jobs will be lost.

“We want to see meaningful changes in China’s trade practices, but it makes no sense to punish Americans as a negotiating tactic. If the administration wants to put more pressure on China...

Frozen Ready Meals Rising in Popularity and Demand

The global frozen ready meals market is expected to post a CAGR close to 5% during the period 2019-2023, according to the latest market research report by Technavio.

Owing to rapid industrialization worldwide the working population has increased at a significant rate. Hectic work schedules have increased the demand for readymade food as well. Besides convenience, consumers look for quality and taste before purchasing frozen ready meals. For example, frozen pizza is one of the most preferred variants of frozen ready meals as they are convenient and are available in a variety of toppings.

Furthermore, consumers that prefer frozen ready meals are the older millennials or the parents of children aged between 7 to 12 years. These consumers are mostly working professionals who prefer...

Sysco Reports Third Quarter Fiscal 2019 Results

Sysco Corporation (NYSE: SYY) today announced financial results for its 13-week third fiscal quarter ended March 30, 2019.

Third Quarter Fiscal 2019 Highlights

• Sales increased 2.2% to $14.7 billion
• Gross profit increased 2.9% to $2.8 billion; gross margin increased 14 basis points
• Operating income increased 9.8% to $529.6 million; adjusted¹ operating income increased 16.6% to $620.2 million
• EPS increased $0.22 to $0.85; adjusted¹ EPS increased $0.12 to $0.79...

The Superfoods Market will Register a CAGR of Almost 17% by 2023

The strong distribution network and omnichannel presence of superfood manufacturers are one of the key factors expected to trigger the market's growth in the forthcoming years. Vendors are focusing on strengthening their distribution network with retailers and e-commerce partners for catering the rapidly increasing demand for superfoods globally. In addition, several vendors are also focusing on expanding their retail presence to the convenience stores and foodservice outlets. The vendors are also strengthening their partnership with e-commerce providers for selling more products online, this will propel the demand for superfoods during the forecast period. Analysts have predicted that the superfoods market will register a CAGR of almost 17% by 2023...

Executive Conference: Egg Panel Examines Consumption, Promotions, and Exports

People are still talking about Urner Barry’s 2019 Executive Conference—the venue, (the food!), the networking, amazing speakers, and exclusive market intel. 

The final sessions on Tuesday featured Urner Barry’s Market Reporters in the highly anticipated panel discussions. These breakout sessions are exclusively designed to deliver pertinent market analysis to industry attendees. This year’s Egg Panel included Brian Moscogiuri, Randy Pesciotta, and European Egg Market Reporter Ben Leveau. The team also introduced UB’s newest Egg Market Reporter, Karyn Rispoli, to the crowd. Here are just a few highlights from the session: 

“Right now, we’re seeing the highest per capita consumption levels in recent history,” Brian Moscogiuri said. “That’s 200 eggs in a shell per person, per year!” 

In 2015, the egg industry saw...

Shake Shack Announces First Quarter 2019 Financial Results

Shake Shack Inc. (“Shake Shack” or the “Company”) (NYSE: SHAK) today reported its financial results for the first quarter ended March 27, 2019, a period that included 13 weeks.

Financial Highlights for the First Quarter 2019 compared to the First Quarter 2018:

• Total revenue increased 33.8% to $132.6 million.
• Shack sales increased 33.8% to $128.6 million.
• Same-Shack sales increased 3.6%.
• Shack system-wide sales increased 33.5% to $195.2 million.
• Operating income was $5.2 million, or 3.9% of total revenue, which included the impact of costs associated with Project Concrete and other one-time items totaling $0.5 million, resulting in a decrease of 20.8%.
• Shack-level operating profit...

Eating with a Conscience: Ethical Food and Drink Sales Hit £8.2 Billion in 2018 

British consumers are increasingly eating with a conscience as latest research from Mintel reveals that last year the nation spent £8.2 billion on ethical food and drink, including organic, Fairtrade, Rainforest Alliance and Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certified products. Over the past five years, sales of ethical food and drink have shot up by 43% from £5.7 billion in 2013. This year, sales are forecast to increase a further 4% to reach £8.6 billion. The sector’s ongoing popularity is set to continue, as sales of ethically certified food and drink are projected to rise by 17% to reach £9.6 billion between 2019-23.

This popularity is widespread, as today, a caring 83% of UK adults say they have bought food/drink with some sort of ethical certification. Proving a hit with more mature Brits, those most likely to...

Amazon Expands Grocery Delivery from Whole Foods Market to Thirteen Metros

Amazon and Whole Foods Market today launched delivery of natural and organic products from Whole Foods Market through Prime Now in Chattanooga and Knoxville, Tenn., Destin and Tallahassee, Fla., Greensboro and Wilmington, N.C., Allentown, Pa., Fort Collins, Colo., Huntsville and Montgomery, Ala., Jackson, Miss., Palm Desert, Calif., and Portland, Maine.

Starting today, Prime members in those cities can shop through Prime Now for thousands of bestselling items including fresh produce, high-quality meat and seafood, everyday staples and other locally sourced items from Whole Foods Market and enjoy delivery in as little as an hour. The service is now available in...

UB Executive Conference: Meat and Poultry Panel Captivates with Complex Analysis and Insight

Day two of the 2019 Executive Conference was filled with premium analysis and top insights, and it all led up to the highly anticipated Reporter Panel discussions. This year, the congruent breakout sessions featured a Poultry and Red Meat panel, with Urner Barry Market Reporters Gary Morrison, Dylan Hughes, Russell Barton, and Evan Addis. Here are a just few highlights from the session:

Examining a few macro-economic factors, Gary Morrison kicked off the conversation noting that the stock market is in its longest bull run in history. There is record low unemployment. Consumer confidence is up, and wages are rising. And it’s protein that tends to benefit from more spending—as consumer spending buoys consumption.

“Right now, we’re seeing all-time... 

The Cheesecake Factory Reports Results for First Quarter of Fiscal 2019

The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated (NASDAQ: CAKE) today reported financial results for the first quarter of fiscal 2019, which ended on April 2, 2019.

Total revenues were $599.5 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2019 compared to $584.7 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2018. Net income and diluted net income per share were $27.0 million and $0.60, respectively, in the first quarter of fiscal 2019.

Excluding the after-tax impact of the $1.5 million loss on the Company’s minority investments, net income and diluted net income per share for the first quarter of fiscal 2019 would have been $28.1 million and $0.62, respectively. Please see the Company’s reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures at the end of this release...