USDA Details Trade Damage Estimate Calculations

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Office of the Chief Economist has published a detailed accounting of how estimated damage from trade disruptions was calculated for its support package for farmers announced on July 25, 2019. USDA’s Office of the Chief Economist developed an estimate of gross trade damages for commodities with assessed retaliatory tariffs by China, India, the European Union, and Turkey to set commodity payment rates and purchase levels. USDA employed the same approach often used in adjudicating World Trade Organization trade dispute cases. 

“Just as we did before, we want to be transparent about this process and how our economists arrived at the numbers they did. Our farmers and ranchers work hard to feed the United States and the world, and they need to know...

Walmart's Innovative Approach to Convenience Around the World

Shopping lists are increasingly including a new item: convenience.

The grocery industry is a great example. American shoppers average about 60 minutes spent shopping for food each week. To cut this time down, more and more of Walmart’s U.S. customers find themselves taking advantage of online shopping options like pickup and delivery.

But the U.S. isn’t the only place customers want convenience. Walmart Canada’s recent announcement to expand grocery delivery with Instacart demonstrates how quickly customers are responding to time-saving innovations in...

AmazonFresh Expands to Houston, Minneapolis and Phoenix With 1- and 2-Hour Delivery

Amazon today announced that AmazonFresh has expanded to three new cities: Houston, Minneapolis and Phoenix. Beginning today, Prime members in those cities can shop tens of thousands products from meat and seafood to fresh produce and everyday essentials for free two-hour delivery from AmazonFresh.

“We’re thrilled to introduce AmazonFresh to Prime members in Houston, Minneapolis and Phoenix,” said Stephenie Landry, Vice President of AmazonFresh and Prime Now. “Prime members tell us they want their stuff even faster. We’re happy to deliver on that ask and can’t wait for customers in Houston, Minneapolis and Phoenix to take advantage of...

BJ’s Wholesale Club Announces Second Quarter Fiscal 2019 Results

BJ’s Wholesale Club Holdings, Inc., today announced its financial results for the thirteen and twenty-six weeks ended August 3, 2019.

“Second quarter results for sales and earnings were in line with our expectations,” said Christopher J. Baldwin, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, BJ’s Wholesale Club. "We delivered improved margins and continued to grow earnings as we executed against our strategic priorities. Our sales were particularly strong in the second half of the quarter as weather improved, and we ended with strong momentum. We are confident that we will deliver on our full-year expectations as we continue to...

Aramark Tackles Game Day with 35 of the Hottest Items on Menus at NFL Stadiums

Game days are back and Aramark (NYSE: ARMK), the award-winning food and beverage partner of 11 NFL teams, is ready to welcome six million fans back to stadiums for the most awaited and delicious time of the year, football season.

Aramark, which serves more football fans than any other hospitality company, scouted recipes and food trends from coast to coast, to create new menus that reflect the flavor and tradition of the hometown teams and communities where they reside. Food trends and fan feedback guided Aramark’s culinary team through the off-season, which resulted in a fresh roster of...

Domino's to Open New Workspace Dedicated to Collaborative Innovation

Domino's Pizza, the largest pizza company in the world based on global retail sales, has spent years focused on cutting-edge technology created and built largely by teams at its World Resource Center in Ann Arbor. Those cross-functional teams now have a new space called Domino's Innovation Garage where they can collaborate on, create and test new ideas to take the brand to the next level. Domino's Innovation Garage, located at Domino's Farms in Ann Arbor, will celebrate its grand opening on Wednesday, Aug. 21.

"Domino's Innovation Garage is focused on accelerating Domino's spirit of creativity and collaboration," said Kelly Garcia, Domino's chief technology officer. "As a pizza company with a focus on technology, we want our team members to have a workspace that encourages experimentation and...

Dunkin’ Launches New Burrito Bowls

With autumn on the way, Dunkin’ is giving guests new innovative menu choices and returning fall favorites – perfect for powering through the change in season. Following the success of Dunkin’ Bowls, first available for a limited time earlier this year, Dunkin’ today launched new Burrito Bowls, served in two varieties full of delicious flavors, vegetables and protein for exciting new options for eating on-the-run. Dunkin’ is also delighting fans today by officially welcoming back its highly anticipated fall menu featuring all things pumpkin led by Pumpkin Flavored Coffees, new Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Signature Latte, baked goods, and more.

Introducing New Burrito Bowls

Available at participating Dunkin’ restaurants nationwide for a limited time, Dunkin’ is offering guests the choice of two new Burrito Bowls to pair with their favorite Dunkin’ beverages...

Target Reports Second Quarter 2019 Earnings

Target Corporation today announced its second quarter 2019 performance, including comparable sales growth of 3.4 percent driven by a 2.4 percent increase in comparable traffic. The Company reported GAAP earnings per share (EPS) from continuing operations of $1.82 in second quarter 2019, up 22.0 percent from $1.49 in second quarter 2018. Second quarter Adjusted EPS of $1.82 was 23.9 percent higher than $1.47 in second quarter 2018. The attached tables provide a reconciliation of non-GAAP to GAAP measures. All earnings per share figures refer to diluted EPS.

• Second quarter comparable sales grew 3.4 percent, driven by 2.4 percent traffic growth.
• Comparable sales have grown approximately 10 percent over the last two years — the best performance in more than...

Revention and DoorDash Team Up to Offer On-Demand Logistics Services

Revention, the industry-leading provider of restaurant ordering and management solutions, today announced its partnership with the largest and fastest growing last-mile logistics platform in more than 4,000 cities in the United States and Canada, DoorDash.

This partnership will provide restaurateurs the opportunity to grow their business by offering on-demand logistics and/or streamlining existing delivery operations to accommodate for peak times, unexpected surge of orders, downtime, and service outside of standard areas.'

The Revention and DoorDash partnership will significantly expand operational efficiencies for restaurateurs, with potential benefits including...

Denny's Brings Back Super Slam Deal and Seasonal Offerings 

Today, Denny's is giving America another chance to enjoy more breakfast items for less with the return of the $5.99 Super Slam. Back by popular demand, the Super Slam is made with high-quality ingredients featuring two fresh eggs, two bacon strips, two sausage links, crispy hash browns and two fluffy buttermilk pancakes. An optional upgrade to seasonal favorite pumpkin pancakes is also available for only 49 cents. The Super Slam delivers the variety and outstanding value that Denny's is known for.

"At Denny's, we pride ourselves on offering our guests high-quality options at unbeatable prices," said John Dillon, chief brand officer for Denny's. "Our $5.99 Super Slam delivers the unique and hearty breakfast flavors our guests crave, without having to overspend to enjoy something special. For breakfast, lunch, dinner and...

Amazon Announces Plans to Expand in Utah with New Fulfillment Center in West Jordan

Amazon.com, Inc. today announced plans to open a new fulfillment center in West Jordan, Utah creating more than 800 full-time jobs starting at $15 an hour with comprehensive benefits starting on day one. Amazon currently employs more than 2,000 full-time associates throughout the State of Utah.

“We’re excited to open a new, state-of-the-art fulfillment center in West Jordan and to continue innovating in a state committed to providing great opportunities for jobs and customer experience. Utah has a talented workforce, and we are very excited to grow employment beyond the more than 2,000 associates already serving customers in the state,” said Alicia Boler Davis, Amazon’s Vice President of Global Customer Fulfillment.

“We are pleased that Amazon has chosen Utah again for such a strategic part of Amazon’s business by setting up another fulfillment center in West Jordan. As the ‘Crossroads of the West,’ Utah is the perfect place for companies in the...

Target Introduces Food and Beverage Brand 

Target Corporation today announced the introduction of Good & Gather, Target’s largest owned Food & Beverage brand. Grounded in guest research, the flagship brand will offer a wide range of food and beverage products that prioritize taste, quality ingredients and ease, at a great value. Good & Gather will be available in stores and online on Target.com for same-day delivery beginning September 15, 2019.

“Our guests are incredibly busy and want great-tasting food they can feel good about feeding their families,” says Stephanie Lundquist, executive vice president and president, Food & Beverage, Target. “We saw this as a huge opportunity for Target to help. So our team got to work on our most ambitious food undertaking yet, reimagining our owned food brands to serve up...

This Week in Retail: Prepare for Pre-Season Protein Demand

We’re halfway through August, but protein demand doesn’t expire with the summer season. In fact, consumers may even be stepping up their purchases at the meat case as the NFL preseason is officially underway! And the regular season is just around the corner.

It’s been six long months since fans were treated to their favorite teams facing off on the gridiron. Now, everyone is getting in on the action. Retailers across the board are running promotions to capitalize on the return of football frenzied spending.

Grocers are changing up end caps from summer smore displays to game day essentials. Grilling ads are shifting from summer barbecues in the backyard to...

Industry Innovator, Emanuel Puglisi, Passes Away 

Emanuel Puglisi, industry innovator, passed away on Wednesday, August 14, 2019, at the age of 95.

Emanuel was born in Ragusa, Sicily and came to live in Greenwich Village in 1937, working as a cabinet maker in New York City. Emanuel served in the U.S. Army during World War II, and settled in Howell following the war. He was the founder, owner, and operator of Puglisi Egg Farms, Howell, until retiring in 1986. Emanuel built the first high-rise poultry building in America and hosted people throughout the world to see his innovative techniques. Emanuel was also a past president of the New Jersey Poultry Products Council and a golden egg recipient...

July Retail Sales Show Strong Gains

Retail sales were up 0.9 percent in July seasonally adjusted from June and up 5.6 percent unadjusted year-over-year, the National Retail Federation said today. The numbers exclude automobile dealers, gasoline stations and restaurants.

“July’s strong results are consistent with a confident consumer,” NRF Chief Economist Jack Kleinhenz said. “Households are in good shape with spending and that should continue as long as the labor market remains healthy. But it’s important to remember that today’s data is looking backward at what was happening a month ago. The impact of volatile financial markets and increased trade tensions in recent weeks may put a wind of caution in consumer spending as...

SpartanNash Announces Second Quarter 2019 Financial Results

SpartanNash Company today reported financial results for the 12-week second quarter and 28-week period ended July 13, 2019.

“Consistent with our comments in the press release issued earlier this week, the Board of Directors and I remain confident in the Company’s overall strategic direction,” said Dennis Eidson, Interim President and Chief Executive Officer. “I am excited to work with our team of talented associates as we focus our efforts on improved execution, while continuing to...

Food Lion to Expand "To-Go" Grocery Pick-Up Service at Multiple Stores

Food Lion continues to expand its “Food Lion To-Go" grocery pick up service at multiple area locations beginning August 19, 2019.

A ribbon cutting ceremony will be held at each location at 8:45 a.m. on August 19th, and to help introduce customers to this new service, Food Lion is offering shoppers their first pickup for free.

The launch of this new, convenient service enables Food Lion to continue to deliver on its promise to ensure an easy, fresh and affordable grocery shopping experience, and it allows customers to order and pick up their groceries in as little as an hour.

“We are so excited to expand this convenient service to more stores in the Food Lion footprint and enable customers to spend more time...

Walmart Releases Q2 FY20 Earnings

Total revenue was $130.4 billion, an increase of $2.3 billion, or 1.8%. Excluding currency, total revenue was $131.7 billion, an increase of $3.7 billion, or 2.9%.

Walmart U.S. comp sales increased on a two-year stacked basis by 7.3%, which is the strongest growth in more than 10 years. Segment operating income increased 4%, marking the fifth consecutive quarter of growth.

Walmart U.S. eCommerce sales growth of 37% includes strong growth in online grocery.

Sam's Club comp sales increased 1.2%, and eCommerce sales grew 35%. Reduced tobacco sales negatively affected...

Fast Food Ranked in Top 40% of All Industries in MBLM's Brand Intimacy Study

The fast food industry ranked sixth out of the 15 industries studied in MBLM's Brand Intimacy 2019 Study, which is the largest study of brands based on emotion. Brand Intimacy is defined as the emotional science that measures the bonds we form with the brands we use and love. Chick-fil-A rose to the #1 spot in fast food followed by Dunkin'. Starbucks dropped to third after ranking first for the previous two years. The top 10 for the industry was rounded out by: McDonald's, Taco Bell, Subway, Wendy's, Burger King, Chipotle and KFC.

Chick-Fil-A also ranked 10th in the overall industry. In addition to performing well in MBLM's study, the brand increased its revenue at a 15% annual rate from 2010 to 2018, while the industry as a whole only grew by 3.4%.1 In 2018, Chick-fil-A also reported more than $10 billion in revenue, its 51st consecutive year of sales growth.2 This correlates to the study findings, which revealed that...

Food And Beverage Industry Seen As Growth Market in U.S. Retail Real Estate Sector

A healthy appetite for food and beverage businesses continues to fuel significant growth in one of the hottest areas in the U.S. retail real estate sector, according to BBG, a leading due diligence commercial real estate firm.

In U.S. cities across the country, more restaurants, bars and grocery stores are opening or expanding operations to meet growing demand for these services, as a result of an ongoing demographic shift in how and where people live, work and play.

That has led to these businesses growing their share of total retail spending, from 24.3 percent during the past decade, compared with 22.7 percent prior to the 2007-2008 recession, according to one recent industry report. F&B sales now account for nearly...

Secretary Perdue Swears in USDA’s Principal Deputy Chief Financial Officer Scott Soles

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today administered the oath of office to swear in Scott Soles to serve as the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Principal Deputy Chief Financial Officer.

“Scott Soles brings decades of experience with him to Washington and we are excited to welcome him to our USDA team,” Secretary Perdue said. “With over 30 years of experience in internal and external financial auditing, consulting, and finance operations, Scott will bring valuable...

U.S. Consumers’ Desire to Use Food as Medicine is Evidenced by Emerging Superfoods

While it is commonly understood that good nutrition promotes general health, consumers are becoming increasingly aware of how their food and beverage choices can help them manage and, in some cases, reverse certain medical conditions, according to health and wellness research by The NPD Group. NPD finds that about a quarter of U.S. adults are trying to manage a health or medical condition by making healthy food and beverage choices.

Younger adults, ages 18-24, are particularly interested in using foods to improve their health. Last year young adults chose foods and beverages with healthy profiles for 19 percent of their meals and in-between snacks. For example, nine percent of adults say a top nutrition goal is protecting brain health and when asked about foods that promote brain health, young adults were 45 percent more likely to...

Kraft Heinz Reports Preliminary Financial Results for the First Half Of 2019

The Kraft Heinz Company (Nasdaq: KHC) (“Kraft Heinz” or the “Company”) today reported preliminary financial results for the first half of 2019 that reflected lower net sales despite improving consumer takeaway trends in key markets, as well as the adverse impacts of ongoing cost inflation, greater investments, and higher depreciation and amortization expenses. Results also included preliminary non-cash impairment charges related to goodwill and intangible assets that more than offset a one-time gain on the sale of the Company's India nutritional beverages business.

“The level of decline we experienced in the first half of this year is nothing we should find acceptable moving forward," said Kraft Heinz CEO Miguel Patricio. "We have significant work ahead of us to set our strategic priorities and change...

Applebee’s Nationwide Delivery Has Arrived

Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill + Bar just made dining at home or on-the-go easier, more convenient and more flavorful with Applebee’s Delivery℠ available at participating restaurants nationwide. Now, wherever you are, you can order online at Applebees.com or through the mobile app and Applebee’s Delivery, powered by DoorDash, will have your favorite mouthwatering Boneless Chicken Wings and Loaded Shrimp Fajitas delivered to your door hot and fresh. For those meals when you’re too tired to cook or just don’t want to pack the family in the car, Applebee’s Delivery has your back.

Applebee’s is celebrating the news in two big ways. First, hungry fans can take advantage of free delivery now through Sunday, September 1 when ordering Applebee’s Delivery. And to commemorate Applebee’s new partnership with NBC Sports’ Football Night in America, free delivery will continue...

Performance Food Group Reports Fourth-Quarter and Full-Year Fiscal 2019 Results

Performance Food Group Company today announced its fourth-quarter and full-year fiscal 2019 business results. “Fiscal 2019 was a successful year for PFG, and I’m very pleased with our team’s execution,” said George Holm, PFG’s Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer. “Our strong top-line growth, combined with increased gross profit per case, led to profitability at the high end of our expectations for the year. Our core business segments delivered strong financial results led by Vistar’s double-digit EBITDA growth. Looking ahead to fiscal 2020, we believe our two recently announced strategic acquisitions position us well across our business and we expect fiscal 2020 to be another year of solid earnings growth.”

Fourth-Quarter Fiscal 2019 Highlights

• Total case volume grew 9.2%
• Net sales increased 28.4% to $5.9 billion
• Gross profit improved 14.4% to...

FAT Brands Reports Fiscal Second Quarter 2019 Financial Results

FAT Brands Inc. today reported fiscal second quarter 2019 financial results for the 13-week period ending June 30, 2019.

Andy Wiederhorn, President and CEO of FAT Brands, commented, “We are pleased to report that the considerable growth in revenues was matched by an equally robust increase in adjusted EBTDA and that we leveraged our G&A expenses on our expanded top-line.”

Wiederhorn continued, “We are also excited to have closed on our acquisition of Elevation Burger in June. The brand is well-aligned with our own commitment to fresh, authentic, tasty food and we are confident that it has considerable opportunity to expand domestically and internationally with its organic, free-range, grass-fed offerings. Elevation Burger reflects another synergistic opportunity for...

Retailers Respond to Tariff Delay Ahead of Holiday Season

The National Retail Federation issued the following statement from Senior Vice President for Government Relations David French after the Trump administration announced it would delay new tariffs on certain consumer products until December 15. Tariffs on other products are scheduled to take effect September 1.

“While we are still reviewing the details, we are pleased the administration is delaying some tariffs ahead of the holiday season and acknowledging the impact on American consumers. Still, uncertainty for U.S. businesses continues, and tariffs taking effect September 1 will result in higher costs for American families and slow the U.S. economy. During this delay period, we urge the administration to...

Oregon Passes Cage-Free Egg Law 

Senate Bill 1019 has been signed into law in Oregon, requiring all eggs sold within the state border to come from cage-free facilities. Through passing this legislation in Oregon, all states on the west coast now have laws in place requiring eggs to come from cage-free hens. Similar to laws passed in California and Washington, the new law in Oregon requires that eggs produced and sold in the state come from cage-free barns that have scratching areas, perches, nest boxes, dust bathing areas, and other enrichments that allow the hens to exhibit natural behavior. These standards are based off of the United Egg Producer's Animal Husbandry Guidelines for U.S. Egg-Laying Flocks, and will go into effect by the end of 2023.

The term "egg-laying hen," addressed in the bill, applies to any female domesticated chicken, turkey, duck, goose, guinea fowl, or other species of fowl that is kept for the purpose of egg production. Egg products are included in this new law, but does include products such as...

UNFI Announces Management Changes

United Natural Foods, Inc. today announced changes to its senior management team. Mike Zechmeister will resign his position as Chief Financial Officer, effective August 23, 2019, to pursue an opportunity outside the Company. John W. Howard has been appointed Interim Chief Financial Officer while the Company begins an internal and external search for Mr. Zechmeister's permanent replacement. Mr. Howard joined UNFI in July as Senior Vice President, Finance and Accounting.

Steven L. Spinner, UNFI's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer said, "I thank Mike for his contributions to UNFI over the past four years of significant growth and change. In the near term, we're fortunate to have John's experience and financial acumen available to...

Domino's Launches National E-Bike Program for Pedal-Powered Delivery

Domino's Pizza, the largest pizza company in the world based on global retail sales, knows a thing or two about pizza delivery, including the fact that cars aren't always the most efficient way to get hot, delicious pizzas to hungry customers. A bike is often a better solution to traffic congestion and parking challenges. Domino's stores across the nation will soon have the option to use custom e-bikes for pizza delivery through a partnership with Rad Power® Bikes – North America's largest e-bike brand.

"Domino's tested e-bikes in a number of corporate-owned stores across Houston, Miami and New York earlier this year, and those stores saw improvements in overall delivery and service," said Tom Curtis, Domino's executive vice president of corporate operations. "They also experienced labor benefits, as the stores were able to hire from a wider pool of candidates, including those who...

Sysco Acquires J. Kings Food Service Professionals

Sysco Corporation (NYSE:SYY), the leading global foodservice distribution company, today announced it has acquired J. Kings Food Service Professionals, a New York broadline distributor with approximately $150 million in annual sales.

J. Kings Food Service Professionals, headquartered in Holtsville, New York, was founded by John King more than 45 years ago. Today, the company has grown to one of the leading independent broadline distributors in the New York area, also servicing customers in Connecticut and New Jersey. The majority of the company’s customers are independent restaurant operators, but the company also serves institutional, retail and multi-unit customers.

“J. Kings is a well-respected, New York area broadline distributor, and we are happy to welcome them into the Sysco family of businesses,” said Greg Bertrand, Sysco’s executive vice president, U.S. foodservice operations. “As Sysco continues to focus on...

Yum! Brands Announces CEO Succession Plan to Drive Next Chapter of Global Growth 

Yum! Brands, Inc. (NYSE: YUM) today announced that its Board of Directors has unanimously elected David Gibbs as Chief Executive Officer, effective January 1, 2020, and appointed him to the Company’s Board, effective November 1, 2019. Gibbs, 55, who currently serves as Yum! Brands President and Chief Operating Officer and oversees the global KFC, Pizza Hut and Taco Bell divisions, will succeed Greg Creed, 62, who has announced his decision to retire at the end of 2019 after a successful 25-year career with the Company.

“I’ve had the privilege of partnering with our franchisees to grow the three iconic brands within the Yum! Brands portfolio for over 30 years and am honored to follow in Greg’s footsteps,” Gibbs said. “It's thanks to Greg’s terrific leadership and innovative brand building during some of the most pivotal moments in our history that Yum! Brands has emerged as...

Applebee's Offers Handcrafted Burger Deal for a Limited Time 

Applebee’s has mastered the art of crafting craveable burgers with its Handcrafted Burgers, which are made to order with premium toppings stacked high. Each burger at Applebee’s is made tastier and more flavorful with 100% fresh and never frozen ground beef, smashed on the grill to seal in the juicy goodness, and served with endless classic fries.

Leading the pack is Applebee’s own Quesadilla Burger, available for a limited-time price of only $7.99, starting today. The restaurant’s original creation is part burger, part quesadilla, piled high with Pepper Jack cheese, Applebee’s signature Mexi-ranch sauce, crispy Applewood-smoked bacon, house-made pico de gallo and shredded lettuce in a crisp, warm Cheddar quesadilla. To top it off, this limited-time deal also includes...

SpartanNash Announces Leadership Transition

SpartanNash Company (Nasdaq: SPTN) (“SpartanNash” or the “Company”) today announced that its Board of Directors has appointed the Company’s Chairman, Dennis Eidson, to the additional roles of Interim President and CEO, effective immediately. Mr. Eidson will serve in these additional roles until the next CEO is identified. Mr. Eidson served as CEO from 2008-2017, and previously served as SpartanNash’s President, Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President of Marketing and Merchandising during his 16-year tenure with the Company. The Board also announced that it has accepted the resignation of President and CEO, Dave Staples, who is leaving the Company and the SpartanNash Board.

“The Board remains confident in the Company’s strategic direction and its ability to generate top line growth; however, execution has fallen short of our expectations and we believe that now is the time for...

Sysco Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2019 Results

Sysco Corporation (NYSE: SYY) today announced financial results for its 13-week fourth fiscal quarter and its fiscal year ended June 29, 2019.

Fourth Quarter Fiscal 2019 Highlights

• Sales increased 1.0% to $15.5 billion
• Gross profit increased 2.1% to $3.0 billion; gross margin increased 21 basis points
• Operating income increased 5.4% to $720.5 million; adjusted¹ operating income increased 6.6% to $818.1 million
• EPS increased $0.18 to $1.03; adjusted EPS increased...

Nathan's Famous, Inc. Reports First Quarter Results

Nathan's Famous, Inc. (“Nathan’s”, the “Company”,  today reported results for its first fiscal quarter ended June 30, 2019.

For the thirteen-week period ended June 30, 2019 (“first quarter fiscal 2020”):

• Revenues were $30,518,000, as compared to $30,168,000 during the thirteen weeks ended June 24, 2018;
• Income from operations was $9,448,000, as compared to $9,087,000 during the thirteen weeks ended June 24, 2018;
• Adjusted EBITDA1 , a non-GAAP financial measure, was $10,173,000 as compared to $9,595,000 for the thirteen weeks ended...

Smithfield Foods Donates More Than 50,000 Pounds Of Protein To Central Illinois Foodbank

Smithfield Foods, Inc. donated more than 50,000 pounds of protein to Central Illinois Foodbank. Smithfield’s contribution is part of the company’s 2019 Helping Hungry Homes® donation tour, Smithfield’s signature hunger-relief initiative focused on alleviating hunger and helping Americans become more food secure. The donation, equivalent to more than 200,000 servings of protein, will help families fight hunger across the state.

“Central Illinois Foodbank aims to provide food and develop awareness of and creative solutions for food insecurity throughout our 21-county service area..."

Retail Imports Remain at Near-Record Levels Despite Tariffs

Imports at the nation’s major retail container ports are expected to continue at near-record levels this month and the remainder of the year despite a new round of tariffs on goods from China, according to the monthly Global Port Tracker report released today by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates.

“Even with virtually everything American imports from China soon to be subject to tariffs, it isn’t quick or easy for retailers to change their supply chains,” NRF Vice President for Supply Chain and Customs Policy Jonathan Gold said. “That means American families are ultimately going to pay more for goods they can’t do without. And even if sourcing eventually shifts away from China, it will simply come from other countries. It’s time to stop punishing American businesses, workers and families for China’s wrongdoing.”

President Trump announced last week that new 10 percent tariffs on an additional $300 billon in Chinese goods will take effect on September 1. Coupled with 25 percent tariffs imposed on...

Technomic: Beverage Category Ripe with Opportunity 

Beverages have always played a significant role in foodservice and the category is continuously evolving. Technomic’s recently released Away-from-Home Beverage Study covers how consumer demands and business conditions have shifted within the past few years.

“Beverage growth has outpaced that of foodservice within the past few years thanks to innovative options such as nitro coffee, plant-based milks and other alternative beverages entering this space,” explains David Henkes, principal at Technomic. “Although challenges like third-party delivery are encroaching on beverage occasions, the category has a lot of opportunities available through offering a wide variety of innovative beverage options to their guests.”

Key takeaways from the report include...

US Foods Launches US Foods Direct

US Foods Holding Corp. (NYSE: USFD) today announced the addition of US Foods Direct to the company’s exclusive e-commerce platform. This new offering is integrated into US Foods’ online ordering platform, providing operators with an endless aisle of more than 40,000 specialty products and counting. US Foods Direct gives operators easier access to hard-to-find ingredients, such as specialty spices, seasonings, herbs, pastas, flours, sauces or oils, and innovative, on-trend items such as plant-based proteins, dairy-free or vegan alternatives, and gluten-free products. With US Foods Direct, operators now have a one-stop shop for distinctive ingredients that will set their menu apart from the competition.

Sixty-three percent of foodservice operators say they want to improve on offering something different from the competition. Unfortunately, for many operators who are searching for unique ingredients, this can mean sourcing products from other specialty food channels which require longer lead times and additional resources. With sixty two percent of operators reporting...

Papa John's Announces Second Quarter 2019 Results 

Papa John’s International, Inc. (NASDAQ: PZZA)today announced financial results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2019.

Highlights

• Second quarter 2019 earnings per diluted share of $0.15
• Excluding Special items, adjusted earnings per diluted share of $0.28 compared to $0.48 for the second quarter of 2018
• Second quarter system-wide North America comparable sales decrease of 5.7%
• Second quarter international comparable sales increase of...

Aramark Acquires On-Demand Food Delivery Service, Good Uncle

Aramark (NYSE:ARMK), a global leader in food, facilities management and uniforms, today announced the acquisition of privately-held Good Uncle, an innovative, app-based on-demand food delivery service that brings freshly prepared, restaurant quality meals to conveniently located pick-up points around college campuses. The addition of this concierge service to the Aramark portfolio furthers the company’s commitment to advancing innovation through culinary-and technology-driven solutions that better serve customers and clients.

“We are pleased to welcome the Good Uncle team to the Aramark family. As consumer dining habits evolve, we’re continually looking for new ways to disrupt the marketplace with innovative services,” said Eric J. Foss, Aramark’s Chairman, President and CEO. “Good Uncle strengthens our ability to offer...

High Consumer Expectations, Low Levels of Appreciation Make it Tough to Be a Farmer

Add conflicting consumer expectations to the list of reasons farming is a tough row to hoe. In its new global study, Cargill found consumers had a hard-to-satisfy wish list for those who put food on our tables—with most claiming to feel knowledgeable about how our food is raised. Farmers should care most about “providing safe, healthy, abundant and affordable food,” said a majority of survey takers. Yet those same respondents would prefer their food come from smaller/specialty, local or organic farms—which can’t necessarily compete on cost.

“Farmers are foundational to feeding the world in a safe, responsible and sustainable way,” says Pilar Cruz, president of Cargill’s feed and nutrition business. “But they do so under pressure. On one hand, affordable food is central to many families’ budgets. On the other, people are questioning the farming approaches that have made food more available and affordable. Cargill sees all viewpoints because we partner with...

Meal Kits and Online Grocery Shopping Revitalize Interest in Home Cooking

More than half of U.S. adults claim they really enjoy cooking (53%) and more than a third consider the kitchen to be the most important room in the home (35%), according to data in the new report Eating Trends: Cooking & Food Shopping from market research firm Packaged Facts. These percentages are up compared to a decade ago.

Packaged Facts found that most people who don't cook at home either have a lack of time to grocery shop and meal prep or they lack confidence in their cooking skills. The latter reason is especially prevalent among Gen Z adults (ages 18-24) and to a lesser extent Millennials (ages 25-39).

The meal kit industry is arguably the best example of a food industry segment that's making it easier for adults to start cooking more at home again. The products are marketed to emphasize...

Aramark Reports Third Quarter Results

Aramark (NYSE: ARMK) today reported third quarter fiscal 2019 results.

“Our performance in the third quarter was strong and broad-based, anchored in a relentless focus on innovative growth strategies that directly engage the millions of consumers we serve every day,” said Eric J. Foss, Aramark’s Chairman, President and CEO. "We continue to advance our brand and product offerings as part of our commitment to combine technology, convenience and curation across our portfolio. This disciplined approach, combined with the exemplary efforts of our global team members, drove solid year-to-date results, positioning us well to achieve our full year expectations.

“The foundation we are creating provides us with ample opportunity to infuse sales growth and optimize our investments to scale the business,” Foss added. “As a testament to our enhanced...

US Foods Reports Second 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 second quarter of fiscal 2019.

Second Quarter Fiscal 2019 Highlights

• Total case volume increased 1.7%; independent restaurant case volume increased 4.8%
• Net sales increased 4.6% to $6.4 billion
• Gross profit increased 2.5% to $1.1 billion
• Income before income taxes decreased $7 million to $154 million
• Net income decreased $10 million to $116 million
• Adjusted EBITDA increased 6.7% to...

Blue Apron Holdings Reports Second Quarter 2019 Results

Blue Apron Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: APRN) announced today financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2019.

“Blue Apron’s next phase will be defined by focusing on our customers and our core business in order to return the business to growth in 2020,” said Linda Findley Kozlowski, Blue Apron Chief Executive Officer. “We’ve clearly and thoroughly demonstrated results in operational optimization and fiscal discipline throughout the organization. Now, we need to prove we can grow our customer base and revenue through both better execution and new initiatives that enable our core business to reach its full potential. Our market opportunity is large and we believe that it is growing, leading to...

Denny's Features Sirloin Steak in New Limited Time Offer 

For more than 60 years, Denny's has been offering guests a variety of delicious and affordable menu items for breakfast, lunch, dinner and any time in between. And now, Denny's is dishing up even more value than ever before with its new Sirloin Steak & Eggs available starting today for only $8.99 ($10.99 in some markets), offering guests the perfect combination of breakfast and dinner for less.

For a limited time, guests can enjoy Denny's new Sirloin Steak & Eggs, featuring an expertly seasoned USDA choice sirloin steak, crispy hash browns and two fresh eggs. This winning combination is just one of many new and exciting menu items that has been added to the Denny's menu recently. 78 percent of Denny's menu has been updated to reflect new recipes, higher-quality ingredients and...

This Week in Retail: Enter the Dog Days

Goodbye July—hello August. The dog days of summer are here as we enter the lazy hazy final crazy days of the season.  

August is often referred to as the “Sunday of summer” and that perspective could bode well for retail sales as consumers seek to soak up the last few weeks of sunshine and outdoor activity before the school year resumes and the weather begins to transition again.

Beef is killing the retail game in recent weeks, taking the top weekly spot for protein feature volume during the entire month of July. Currently, beef ads account for 27 percent of circular real estate, beating out second placed seafood at 23 percent. Steak features make up about half...

Restaurant Brands International Reports Second Quarter 2019 Results

Restaurant Brands International Inc. today reported financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2019.

Jose Cil, Chief Executive Officer of Restaurant Brands International Inc. ("RBI") commented, "During the second quarter, we grew global system-wide sales nearly 8% and crossed two restaurant milestones with more than 26,000 restaurants globally, including more than 18,000 Burger King restaurants."

"We are excited by the tremendous opportunity for restaurant growth in front of us, most recently highlighted by new partnerships we announced for Popeyes in China and Spain, and Tim Hortons in Thailand," continued Cil. "We are working closely with our restaurant owners to deliver an enhanced guest experience including...

Retailers Respond to Administration’s Latest Tariff Escalation

The National Retail Federation today issued the following statement from Senior Vice President for Government Relations David French in response to the Trump administration’s plans to impose a 10 percent tariff on $300 billion worth of goods imported from China beginning September 1.

“As we’ve said repeatedly, we support the administration’s goal of restructuring the U.S.-China trade relationship. But we are disappointed the administration is doubling-down on a flawed tariff strategy that is already slowing U.S. economic growth, creating uncertainty and discouraging investment. These additional tariffs will only threaten U.S. jobs and raise costs for American families on everyday goods.

“The tariffs imposed over the past year haven’t worked, and there’s no evidence another tax increase on American businesses and consumers will...

Dunkin' Brands Reports Second Quarter 2019 Results

Dunkin' Brands Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: DNKN), the parent company of Dunkin' and Baskin-Robbins (BR), today reported results for the second quarter ended June 29, 2019.

"Continuing the momentum established earlier in the year, our second quarter performance was highlighted by double-digit sales growth of espresso, our national value platforms, and terrific consumer reception to our latest menu innovation, our better-for-you Power Platform. We're attracting a new consumer with both espresso and our Power Platform and will continue to bring more on-trend innovation to fuel guests throughout the day," said David Hoffmann, Dunkin' Brands Chief Executive Officer and President of Dunkin' U.S. "Additionally, as a result of...

Domino's Appoints Lisa Price Executive Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer

Domino's Pizza, (NYSE: DPZ), the largest pizza company in the world based on global retail sales, today announced that Lisa V. Price will be joining the company as executive vice president, chief human resources officer, effective Aug. 26. Price will be a part of Domino's executive leadership team and will report directly to Chief Executive Officer Ritch Allison.

Price joins Domino's from Nordstrom, where she most recently served as senior vice president of human resources. From 2000-2015, Price had progressively more responsible roles in human resources at Starbucks Coffee Co., most recently as vice president of partner resources. With the exception of a year at Nordstrom in 2000, Price spent most of her career at Starbucks, joining the brand in 1994.

"Lisa brings extensive experience in both retail and restaurants to Domino's," said Allison. "She began her career in the stores at Starbucks and eventually worked her way up...

Dine Brands Global Inc Reports Strong Second Quarter 2019 Results

Dine Brands Global, Inc. (NYSE: DIN), the parent company of Applebee's Neighborhood Grill + Bar® and IHOP® restaurants, today announced financial results for the second quarter of 2019.

“Our strategy continues to drive significant improvements across key metrics. We have made important decisions over the last two years that have improved our fundamentals and enhanced our ability to deliver sustainable growth. We successfully completed a $1.3 billion refinancing of our securitized debt, replacing our 2014 fixed rate senior secured notes. We are also pleased to announce that Applebee’s franchisees agreed to extend the increase in the advertising contribution rate to 4.25% through the end of next year,” said Steve Joyce, Chief Executive Officer of Dine Brands Global, Inc.

Mr. Joyce continued, “Our performance reflects the strength and stability of our highly franchised business model. While comparable same-restaurant sales at Applebee’s were lower than expected, these results are not indicative of...

The Cheesecake Factory to Acquire Fox Restaurant Concepts and Remaining Interest in North Italia

The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated (NASDAQ: CAKE)today announced that it has entered into definitive agreements to acquire Fox Restaurant Concepts (“FRC”) and the remaining interest in North Italia, reinforcing its leadership position in experiential dining.

“Since making our initial minority investments in North Italia and Flower Child in 2016, we have not only helped fuel the growth of both brands, but also developed a deep relationship with Sam Fox at Fox Restaurant Concepts,” said David Overton, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated. “We realized the true potential of this relationship as we worked through the integration process for our planned acquisition of North Italia. It became evident that the combination of two of the most experiential and entrepreneurial restaurant companies could drive greater value as one organization.”

Overton continued, “In turn, we have decided to bring together North Italia and Fox Restaurant Concepts, including Flower Child, with The Cheesecake Factory to reinforce our leadership position in...

Dunkin’ Brands Shares Progress Towards Sustainability Goals

Dunkin’ Brands Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: DNKN), the parent company of Dunkin’ and Baskin-Robbins, has published its 2017-18 Sustainability Report, providing a thorough overview of its sustainability progress and the ongoing commitment of its brands and its franchisees to create a positive impact for both customers and communities throughout the world.

Focusing on the key pillars of the company’s sustainability strategy – sustainable food, restaurants and communities – the report highlights Dunkin’ Brands’ recent efforts to serve both people and the planet responsibly by transitioning from foam packaging, offering...

Amazon Announces Plans to Expand in Pennsylvania

Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN) today announced plans to open its 15th Pennsylvanian operations facility in Pittsburgh, creating more than 800 new, full-time jobs starting at $15 an hour with comprehensive benefits and opportunities in an industry-leading workplace.

“Pennsylvania is a great state for business and Amazon is excited to continue its growth and investment with our newest fulfillment center in Allegheny County,” said Alicia Boler Davis, vice president of global customer fulfillment, Amazon. “For nearly a decade, the Keystone state has been key to Amazon’s ability to serve our incredible customers and provide great selection and super-fast shipping speeds across the Northeast and Midwest regions of the U.S. Since 2010, the company has invested more than $8.5 billion in the state through its local fulfillment center and...

Yum China Reports Second Quarter 2019 Results

Yum China Holdings, Inc. (the "Company" or "Yum China") (NYSE: YUMC) today reported unaudited results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2019. Reported GAAP results include Special Items, which are excluded from adjusted measures. Special Items are not allocated to any segment and therefore only impact reported GAAP results of Yum China. See "Reconciliation of Reported GAAP Results to Adjusted Measures" within this release.

Second Quarter Highlights

• Total revenues increased 3% year over year to $2.12 billion from $2.07 billion (10% year over year increase excluding foreign currency translation ("F/X")).
• Total system sales grew 10% year over year, with growth of 12% at KFC and 4% at Pizza Hut, excluding F/X.
• Same-store sales grew...

Albertsons Companies Announces Executive Appointments

Albertsons Companies announced today that Jonathan Gardner has been named its new Group Vice President of Strategic Sourcing. In this new position, Gardner will report to Evan Rainwater, Senior Vice President, Strategic Sourcing and Manufacturing. Additionally, the company has promoted David Nelsen to Group Vice President of Manufacturing.

Gardner joins Albertsons Cos. following a successful nine yearsat Starbucks, where he began his tenure as Director of Sourcing for IT and Digital. Most recently, he served as Vice President, Global Sourcing and Supplier Relations. In this leadership role, Gardner was responsible for Beverage, Dairy, Packaging, Print Production, and Supply Development teams in Seattle. Additionally, he set strategic and cultural priorities for...

Consumer Confidence Index Rebounded in July

The Conference Board Consumer Confidence Index rebounded in July, following a decrease in June. The Index now stands at 135.7 (1985=100), up from 124.3 in June. The Present Situation Index – based on consumers’ assessment of current business and labor market conditions – increased from 164.3 to 170.9. The Expectations Index – based on consumers’ short-term outlook for income, business and labor market conditions – increased from 97.6 last month to 112.2 this month.

“After a sharp decline in June, driven by an escalation in trade and tariff tensions, Consumer Confidence rebounded in July to its highest level this year,” said Lynn Franco, Senior Director of Economic Indicators at The Conference Board. “Consumers are once again optimistic about current and prospective business and...

2019 Annual Report Highlights Cargill’s Commitment to Sustainable Growth

Cargill’s 2019 annual report, published today, tells the story of how the company is reaching higher to create more value for customers, accelerate its growth and sustainably nourish the world.

“We are directing our insights, capabilities and resources toward answering some of the world’s biggest questions,” said David MacLennan, Cargill’s chairman and CEO. “Everyone at Cargill is relentlessly determined to transform what is possible in food, agriculture and nutrition.” In 2019, this included enhanced policies and commitments in support of the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals, including a strengthened human rights commitment and global forest policy.

During the past 12 months, Cargill’s global team leaned into a challenging business and geopolitical environment. By remaining agile and focused on...

White Castle Partners with Uber Eats to Expand Delivery 

White Castle, the nation's first fast-food hamburger chain and home of The Original Slider®, today announced a new partnership with Uber Eats, offering online ordering and delivery to Cravers near more than 330 White Castle locations. Coinciding with the 15th anniversary of beloved film classic, Harold & Kumar Go To White Castle, White Castle and Uber Eats will be giving away up to 1 million Original Sliders – one 10 sack per customer (small order fee may apply on orders of less than $10) – to Cravers with their order through the Uber Eats app using promo code 1MILLIONSLIDERS beginning on July 30. The fast-food chain is also offering a new Harold & Kumar meal reflecting pricing from 2004 when the film was released. The meal is available to Uber Eats customers on July 30 and 31 and includes 30 Original Sliders, five small fries and four 21 oz. soft drinks for just $23.40.

Cravers can now order any of White Castle's coveted menu items, such as The Original Slider®, the plant-powered Impossible Slider, or even a Crave Case for those with the boldest of appetites, through the Uber Eats app. Beginning July 30, White Castle will be giving away...

Grubhub Reports Second Quarter 2019 Results

Grubhub Inc. (NYSE: GRUB), the nation's leading online and mobile food-ordering and delivery marketplace, today announced financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2019. The Company posted revenues of $325 million, which is a 36% year-over-year increase from $240 million in the second quarter of 2018. Gross Food Sales grew 20% year-over-year to $1.5 billion, up from $1.2 billion in the same period last year.

"The team continued executing in the second quarter, adding thousands of new, high-quality independent and enterprise restaurants and growing our active diner base to more than 20 million," said Matt Maloney, Grubhub founder and CEO. "We are excited about the trajectory of our two-sided marketplace – both in terms of geographic diversity and depth in individual markets. Restaurants are increasingly valuing the incremental sales and...

Veteran of the Egg Industry, Robert C. Rehm, Passes Away 

Robert C. Rehm, veteran of the egg industry, passed away on Wednesday, July 24, 2019 at the age of 83.

Robert was born on June 7, 1936 in Watertown, by the late Arthur and Nell (Buck) Rehm. He was a Lake Mills High School graduate, class of 1954 and later earned his bachelor degree in Marketing from UW-Madison in 1958. On October 4, 1958 he married Barbara Jean Nickels at St. Henry’s Catholic Church in Watertown.

Following college, Robert worked for Northwestern Mutual for a year prior to joining his father and brothers in the family egg business. In 1965 he began the company now known as Daybreak Foods. After retirement, he spent the next five years...

Demand Rises for Groceries Online 

Today, there is hardly any field or area where technological advancements have not been made. In the retail sector, grocery shopping is expanding technologically. In the past, consumers generally grocery shopped at nearby supermarkets or convenience stores. However, with the increasing development of the internet and smartphones, online grocery shopping has gained popularity in recent years.

According to Research and Markets, grocery stores can be broadly categorized into three formats: small format, large format, and electronic/online. Online grocery shopping is a recent trend that has developed as a form of e-commerce. These stores can be in the form of brick-and-mortar supermarkets or...

Amazon Share is Declining Amid Online CPG Sales Growth 

Amazon remains the leader in online consumer packaged goods (CPG), continuing to outpace the competition in share of sales and buyers. Yet, its share growth has slowed.

A downward shift in Amazon’s share of CPG sales in the U.S. sends an important message to retailers and manufacturers. Traditional and non-traditional retailers have been accelerating their responses to Amazon by adjusting their omnichannel offerings and strategies. These adjustments have helped them steal share from the global online player, but other factors are at play.

Today, the playing field online has become exponentially more crowded, and while that does bring complications, it also means that many merchants have begun to...

Starbucks Reports Q3 Fiscal 2019 Results

Starbucks Corporation (NASDAQ: SBUX) today reported financial results for its 13-week fiscal third quarter ended June 30, 2019. GAAP results in fiscal 2019 and fiscal 2018 include items which are excluded from non-GAAP results. Please refer to the reconciliation of GAAP measures to non-GAAP measures at the end of this release for more information.

“Starbucks delivered strong operating performance in the third quarter, further demonstrating that our ‘Growth at Scale’ agenda is working,” says Kevin Johnson, president and ceo. “Our two targeted long-term growth markets, the U.S. and China, performed extremely well across a number of measures as a result of our focus on enhancing...

Walmart Begins Pilot with Autonomous Vehicle Company Gatik

To address consumer demand for convenience, Walmart is bringing the best of their grocery pickup and delivery service to communities across the United States. The company is testing new and innovative capabilities that will improve the business and shape the future of retail. Walmart has been exploring pilot options with self-driving car companies that include customer delivery as well as transporting goods between store locations. Today, Walmart has announced a new pilot with autonomous vehicle company Gatik.

In March, Arkansas passed legislation that allows self-driving vehicles to operate in the state. Through Gatik, Walmart is staying on the cutting edge of grocery pickup by testing the vehicles to move customers' orders on a two-mile route in Bentonville between stores. This will aid Walmart in learning more...

Yum! Brands Appoints Taco Bell Division and Pizza Hut Division Chief Executive Officers 

Yum! Brands, Inc. (NYSE: YUM) today announced that it has appointed Taco Bell Division and Pizza Hut Division Chief Executive Officers who each will assume global responsibility for driving their respective brand’s growth strategies, franchise operations and performance. With today’s announcement, each of the Company’s three global brand divisions will be led by a Chief Executive Officer.

Mark King, 60, former President of adidas Group North America, will join the Company as Taco Bell Division Chief Executive Officer, reporting to David Gibbs, President, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer, Yum! Brands. King brings to Taco Bell and Yum! Brands extensive retail experience and an excellent track record driving growth, innovation, brand relevance and culture. In addition, Artie Starrs, 42, President of Pizza Hut U.S., is being promoted to...

U.S. Department of Labor Releases Productivity and Costs by Industry Report

The United States Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics released its productivity and costs by industry in 2018 report. The report highlighted changes in the productivity of employees in various industries, along with the compensation workers receive.

The report provides statistics for merchant wholesalers that sell grocery and related products, food and grocery stores, and foodservice and drinking places.  

The report highlighted various statistics, including an upswing in labor productivity for foodservice in 2018, which climbed by 1.6 percent. In the same industry...

Tim Hortons to Offer JUST Egg in Canada 

Tim Hortons, which is owned by Restaurant Brands International, started offering alternative proteins earlier this year. The first plant-based item to be featured on the menu is Beyond Meat's alternative sausage for three breakfast sandwiches. The quick service restaurant recently began offering the Beyond Burger as well, the first burger to appear on the menu. Now, plant-based company JUST Egg has received its first fast-food deal with Tim Hortons.

Andrew Noyes, a spokesman for JUST, stated that "Canada is one of the most requested markets for JUST and we're excited to be able to offer our product at select Tim Hortons locations for this market test." Tim Hortons reported that the restaurant will...

Retailers Urge Congress to Approve USMCA

The National Retail Federation today urged Congress to take action after its annual August recess to approve the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement, which would modernize trade between the three countries and replace the landmark North American Free Trade Agreement.

“This agreement provides significant updates to the North American Free Trade Agreement, which has benefitted U.S. retailers, workers and consumers for the past two decades,” NRF Senior Vice President for Government Relations David French said in a letter sent to Congress. “Ratifying USMCA is key to ensuring continued growth in the North American market.”

Since NAFTA took effect 25 years ago, e-commerce has changed how businesses operate and how consumers purchase goods, but the agreement still lacks provisions relating to...

Packaged Facts: Retail Breakfast Trends Focus on Health-Related Product Claims and Positioning

Health and wellness trends have significant impact on consumer attitudes and behaviors when shopping for food and beverages, according to market research firm Packaged Facts in the report Breakfast: Retail Product Trends and Opportunities in the U.S., 2nd Edition. The dilemma is that health is a subjective term. This means there is a range of desired product attributes that consumers seek out to fit within their perspective of what's healthy.

While low calorie and low carb were at one time benchmarks for health food, attention has shifted to a greater focus on low/no sugar or low/no added sugars. Sugar is an ingredient in many packaged breakfast foods, especially cereal and breakfast pastries.

Health trends are moving away from being diet-focused in favor of adopting a healthy lifestyle. With increased knowledge of food sourcing and...

USDA Announces Details of Support Package for Farmers

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today announced further details of the $16 billion package aimed at supporting American agricultural producers while the Administration continues to work on free, fair, and reciprocal trade deals.

In May, President Trump directed Secretary Perdue to craft a relief strategy in line with the estimated impacts of unjustified retaliatory tariffs on U.S. agricultural goods and other trade disruptions. The Market Facilitation Program (MFP), Food Purchase and Distribution Program (FPDP), and Agricultural Trade Promotion Program (ATP) will assist agricultural producers while President Trump works to address long-standing market access barriers.

“China and other nations have not played by the rules for a long time, and President Trump is the first President to stand up to them and send a clear message that the United States will no longer tolerate unfair trade practices,” Secretary Perdue said. “The details we announced today ensure farmers will not...

PODCAST: Quacking into the Specialty Market: Midstate Specialty Eggs and Urner Barry

Nick Henson and Jay Berglind join Urner Barry’s Brian Moscoguiri and host Laura Zinger for an eggcellent eggsplanation of the state of the specialty egg market and a glimpse into the duck egg market. Don’t miss this opportunity to quack into something we have never covered before...

Technomic: Shifting Definitions of Value Increasingly Include Food Quality and Service

Value remains a vital component in the path to purchase, with 76% of consumers saying it’s a very important factor when deciding where to dine. Technomic’s 2019 Value & Pricing Consumer Trend Report also reveals that roughly one-quarter of consumers say their definition of value has changed over the past two years, with food quality and service, in particular, playing an increasing role in the value proposition.

“As definitions of value continue to evolve, operators will need to renew their focus on meeting, if not exceeding, expectations across all aspects of the value equation—food quality, price, service and atmosphere,” explains Bret Yonke, manager of consumer insights at Technomic. “Moving forward, look for high-traffic, high-volume segments like fast food to further experiment with subscription models, such as...

Albertsons Reports First Quarter Results

Albertsons Companies, Inc. (the "Company") today reported results for the first quarter of fiscal 2019, which ended June 15, 2019.

First Quarter of Fiscal 2019 Highlights

• Identical sales increased 1.5%
• Adjusted EBITDA increased 7.5% to $877 million compared to last year
• Net income of $49.0 million compared to a net loss of $17.7 million last year
• Own Brands sales penetration reached 25.3%
• Digital and eCommerce sales grew 33%
• Net debt leverage reduced to...

Kroger and Ocado Break Ground on America's Second 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 second customer fulfillment center (CFC), located in Groveland, FL – a new market for the retailer.

"Kroger is excited to enter Florida to redefine the customer experience through our industry-leading partnership with Ocado," said Rodney McMullen, Kroger's chairman and CEO. "There's a substantial demand for Kroger products and services in the state, and we're eager to offer a new and seamless experience through the customer fulfillment center, leveraging advanced robotics technology and...