This Week in Retail: The Rundown on Easter Features

Pork moved into the top spot this week just in time for the holiday, claiming 25.4 percent of protein feature volume. Beef came in second, scoring 23.6 percent, with seafood closely following at 23 percent. Chicken accounted for 16.2 percent. Turkey features were bumped up to 5.6 percent, compared to 3.6 the week prior.

When comparing holiday week retail prices year-over-year, we have to go back to the week of March 26^th, 2018, as Easter fell three weeks earlier last year. Looking at the retail ham complex, ham features come in at an average price of $1.66 per pound, compared to $1.86 per pound during the week leading up to Easter a year ago. That’s an 11 percent drop YOY and should...

Worldwide Cold Storage Market Expected to Grow 

The global cold storage market size is anticipated to reach USD 212.54 billion by 2025 expanding at a CAGR of 12.2%.

The retail sector in emerging economies, such as India and China, is getting more organized and this trend is expected to augment the demand for cold storage over the forecast period. Government policies to deregulate the entry of foreign companies have increased the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the retail sectors of...

USDA Launches SNAP Online Purchasing Pilot

For the first time, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participants will be able to select and pay for their groceries online, during a two-year test (pilot) launched today in New York State. In making the announcement, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue highlighted online purchasing’s potential, along with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) commitment to program integrity by looking carefully at the pilot. Lessons learned from this pilot are expected to inform future efforts to expand online purchasing in SNAP.

“People who receive SNAP benefits should have the opportunity to shop for food the same way more and more Americans shop for food – by ordering and paying for groceries online. As technology advances, it is important for SNAP to ...

Technomic: Shifting Consumption Impacts Menu Offerings in Canada

While red meat continues to maintain strong interest among consumers, growing concerns for health and sustainability are having an increasing impact on these staples in Canada, Technomic reveals in the 2019 Canadian Centre of the Plate Consumer Trend Report. The growing popularity of alternative proteins will increasingly encroach on beef and pork’s share of the plate.

“We are seeing a rise in vegetarian or vegan dishes which have primarily impacted beef and pork consumption. But the impact will broaden going forward as plant-based substitutes emerge for other categories,” explains Anne Mills, senior manager of consumer insights at Technomic. “Consumers are far more likely to ...

U.S. Beef, Poultry and Egg Products Gain New Market Access in Tunisia

U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced today that the government of Tunisia and the United States have finalized U.S. export certificates to allow imports of U.S. beef, poultry, and egg products into Tunisia.  This announcement follows meetings between U.S. and Tunisian officials on the safety and wholesomeness of U.S. beef, poultry, and egg products.

“President Trump continues to prioritize the opening of new markets for U.S. agricultural products, and we welcome Tunisia’s agreement to begin imports of U.S. beef, poultry, and egg products,” said Ambassador Lighthizer. “New access to the Tunisian market is an important step in ensuring that American farmers and ranchers can continue to expand their exports of U.S. agricultural products.”

“I'm convinced that when the Tunisians get a taste of U.S. beef, poultry, and eggs, they're going to want more. These products coming into Tunisia are...

Survey Finds Nearly Half of U.S. Diners have Tried a New Restaurant Because of Social Media Posts

MGH, a full-service restaurant marketing agency, today announced the results of a study that examined how influential a brand's social media marketing can be when it comes to driving restaurant trial and customer loyalty.

The survey determined that nearly half (45%) of U.S. diners said they've tried a restaurant for the first time because of a social media post made by the establishment itself, while 21% claimed posts could be a deterrent. Further, 22% said a restaurant's social post enticed them to return.

Results from the study demonstrated that positive restaurant-to-consumer social media engagement often leads to ...

ANALYSIS: Turkey: Looking Down

An optimist in the turkey market might call our analysis “looking up”. This is because annual production is forecasted to come in below last year and that is considered a positive development for turkey processors...

Dunkin’ Pilots Multi-Tender Participation for its DD Perks Rewards Program

Choice and convenience – two of the values that have helped Dunkin’ earn the loyalty and passion of its on-the-go guests – are now distinguishing the brand’s rewards program and benefiting its members in even more powerful ways. Today the brand announced a pilot of multi-tender participation in its DD Perks® Rewards Program at more than 1,000 locations across the country, giving guests the opportunity for the first time to earn DD Perks points regardless of how they pay.

Whereas previously DD Perks members could only earn points towards free beverages by paying via an enrolled Dunkin’ gift card, at the pilot locations they can now earn points whether they pay by cash, credit, debit or a Dunkin’ gift card. Guests at the participating locations can accumulate points with ...

Publix Board Member Elected, Retirees Recognized

During its annual meeting of stockholders today, Publix stockholders elected Jennifer Jenkins to the Publix board of directors, and Barney Barnett, Jane Finley and Charlie Jenkins Jr. retired from the board. The board also named Barnett as Vice Chairman Emeritus.

“I’m excited to have Jennifer join the Publix family. She will be a valuable addition to our board,” said Publix Chairman of the Board Ed Crenshaw.

Jennifer Jenkins is Clinical Professor of Law and Director of the Center for the Study of the Public Domain at Duke University Law School, where she has worked since 2002. Prior to joining Duke, she was a legal associate at ...

Americold Realty Trust Announces the Strategic Acquisition of Cloverleaf Cold Storage

Americold Realty Trust (NYSE: COLD) (the “Company” or “Americold”), the world’s largest publicly traded REIT focused on the ownership, operation and development of temperature-controlled warehouses, announced today that the Company has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire privately-held Chiller Holdco, LLC (“Cloverleaf Cold Storage” or “Cloverleaf”) from Cloverleaf management and an investor group led by private equity funds managed by Blackstone (NYSE: BX) for a purchase price of $1.24 billion (subject to customary adjustments). The closing of the acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to occur in the second quarter of 2019.

Founded in 1952 and based in Sioux City, Iowa, Cloverleaf is the fifth largest cold storage provider in the United States by refrigerated cubic feet and serves over 360 customers. The portfolio to be acquired consists of ...

FSIS Proposes to Remove Dual Labeling Requirements for Certain Amounts of Meat and Poultry Products

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today that it is proposing to amend labeling regulations to remove duplicative net weight and net content requirements for packages that contain certain amounts of meat or poultry products. The proposed regulation would apply to products that are at least one pound or one pint, but less than four pounds or one gallon.

FSIS is proposing this action after receiving a petition submitted by a small meat processor in response to USDA’s request for ideas to better serve its customers ...

QDOBA Mexican Eats Adding Impossible to Restaurants Nationwide by May 28

QDOBA Mexican Eats® is adding plant-based Impossible™ to its restaurants’ menus across the U.S. Following a successful product test in Michigan, the brand has decided to broaden its offering of Impossible with rolling availability beginning April 23 at select restaurants in Brooklyn, Denver and Los Angeles. By May 28, Impossible will be available at more than 730 locations across the country, which will make QDOBA the largest Mexican fast-casual chain to serve this plant-based protein.

“During our test, we quickly learned that consumers loved our unique take on Impossible, making it an easy decision to launch nationally,” said Jill Adams, vice president of marketing for QDOBA. “Our Impossible offering appeals to both meat lovers and vegans, while also delivering on the big, bold flavors that ...

NRA Examines State of the Restaurant Industry

Restaurant businesses are growing despite some operational challenges, such as workforce development issues, demand for increased technology, and serving Millennials, according to new National Restaurant Association research.

The 2019 State of the Restaurant Industry Report, a comprehensive look at trends and sales projections for the industry, culled and analyzed economic data, along with responses to surveys sent to restaurant operators and consumers.

Hudson Riehle, Association Senior Vice President of Research & Knowledge, shared takeaways from the report, discussed how he expects business to perform throughout 2019 ...

PODCAST: African Swine Fever—Changing the Protein Landscape and Economy

Russell Barton sits down to discuss the severity and implications of African Swine Fever, herd losses, impact on exports, and a firming market. Also covered: Easter holiday impact on hams.

Tech Trends Driving Changes in Restaurants, Report Says

Gen Z and millennial expert Jason Dorsey says people refer to Gen Z and millennials as “tech savvy.” But that’s not necessarily true, says Dorsey. He says they’re actually “tech dependent” -- and that’s a different thing altogether.

That may be how they engage with restaurants too. From baby boomers to Gen Xers, generational attitudes toward restaurant technology notably differ, according to National Restaurant Association research delivered in a recent webinar.

• When asked if restaurant technology -- which can include everything from smartphone apps to tableside tablets and order kiosks -- increases convenience, 60 percent of all ...

How Food Trucks are Adding a Fresh Twist to Casual Dining

As the appetite for trying new foods grows and consumers actively seek out new dining experiences, the traditional lines between eating out in restaurants or tucking into street food are blurring.

Food trucks are one of the main reasons why.

Whether they specialise in luxury noodles, artisan pizza or tacos with a twist, growing numbers of street food traders that started off life in food trucks are making the transition to bricks-and-mortar stores.

It all adds up to a more exciting local dining scene, says Ian Hanlon, director at JLL Foodservice Consulting.

“Today’s food trucks offer high-quality ingredients and often champion local produce ...

Popeyes Launches On-Demand Delivery With Postmates

Postmates and POPEYES® announced today that they've partnered to bring their delicious fried chicken direct to your door. With more than 2,000 POPEYES locations in the US, customers across the country can have their favorite Cajun dishes delivered. Postmates knows that POPEYES wouldn't be the same without that hot, flakey biscuit, so they are giving customers one for free when they order through the platform. To further celebrate the new partnership, Postmates is waiving the delivery fee on POPEYES orders with the promo code BISCUITS.

"Over the years we've made hundreds of thousands of deliveries from POPEYES, so we are thrilled to officially partner and work closely with them to continue to ...

Aramark Launches its First Dedicated Plant-Forward Dining Concept, the Twisted Beet

Aramark, the largest U.S. based food service company, is putting a twist on comfort food, with the launch of its first dedicated plant-forward dining concept, The Twisted Beet.

Proof that eating healthy doesn’t have to be boring, The Twisted Beet’s plant-forward comfort food menu puts a healthy spin on dishes like meatball subs and mac and cheese, and emphasizes vegetables, fruits, whole grains and legumes, but still offers a proportionately small quantity of animal protein.

Aramark research shows that 60 percent of consumers want to reduce their meat intake and 62 percent want to eat more vegetables. In response to growing demand, Aramark has expanded its menu selections to ensure it’s providing the choices that ...

Panera Bread Takes On Breakfast to Eliminate Trade-Offs Between Morning Convenience And Quality

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day; yet mornings can be hectic, and the quickest option isn't always the best quality option. To usher in a new era of breakfast on the go, Panera is refreshing its offerings, focusing on new menu items and an elevated coffee platform to meet the untapped consumer demand for a convenient, yet high-quality, delicious breakfast.

Many of today's fast breakfast options include frozen, microwaved food items that lack flavor or nutritional value; and made-to-order foods can often come with a wait time that impacts the morning commute. Panera's 100% clean breakfast options ...

Brits Spent £12.3 Billion on Online Groceries in 2018

Brits continue to shop with the click of a button, as according to the latest research from Mintel, last year sales of online groceries in the UK hit £12.3 billion, up 9% from 2017.

One of the fastest growing channels in the UK grocery market, the online grocery sector is still adding to its share of total grocery retail sales, up from 6.1% in 2016 to 7% in 2018. What is more, consumers’ love of online shopping is set to continue as this year, sales are expected to reach £13.6 billion. Over the next five years, online grocery is forecast to account for 10% of all grocery shopping, with sales growing by ...

USDA Update on Farm Bill Implementation Progress 

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today announced the implementation status of the 2018 Farm Bill. President Trump signed this Farm Bill into law on December 20th, 2018 and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) promptly began implementation of key programs. USDA held several listening sessions with stakeholders and the public, specific to each agency’s respective mission areas.

“At USDA we are implementing the 2018 Farm Bill as quickly as possible. We know the programs that are renewed and updated in this farm bill are critical to farmers, ranchers, and producers as they plan for the future,” said Secretary Sonny Perdue. “Our mission areas have all held several public listening sessions, both formally and informally, to receive stakeholder input. Our goal is to have programs that function best for ...

ANALYSIS: A Chicken Weight Conundrum

With Q1 under the industry’s belt, it’s a good time to reflect back on the supply data to see if this year’s anticipated production advancements are beginning to show up in the books...

Acosta Report Finds Multicultural Americans are Reshaping US Grocery

With the U.S. multicultural population projected to grow by 98 million people in the coming decades, Acosta expects multicultural shoppers will continue to have significant influence on the grocery shopping experience. Research released today in the first-ever Multicultural The Why? The Behind The Buy™ from Acosta — a leading full-service sales and marketing agency in the consumer packaged goods industry — provides insight into the preferences of U.S. Hispanic, African American and Asian American shoppers.

"The growing multicultural population will drastically impact the grocery industry, and we have already noticed key differences between ...

Sysco Acquires J & M Wholesale Meats and Imperio Foods

Sysco Corporation (NYSE:SYY), the leading global foodservice distribution company, today announced it has acquired J & M Wholesale Meats and Imperio Foods, Inc., leading California distributors with approximately $44 million in combined annual sales.

J & M Wholesale Meats and Imperio Foods, sister companies based out of Modesto, California, operate throughout northern California and Oregon. J&M Meats, founded in 2003, is a foodservice distributor who specializes in center of the plate products, serving foodservice customers and small retail locations in the Hispanic segment. Imperio Foods was founded in 2014 and ...

Ahold Delhaize USA Named as Winsight's 2019 Grocery Business of the Year

Ahold Delhaize USA has been chosen as Winsight's 2019 Grocery Business of the Year, which is featured in the leading trade media brand's April cover story.

As the brand's most significant honor bestowed annually to one select grocery industry leader, WGB's Grocery Business of the Year profile story explores how the former international rivals charted a new trajectory following a rare merger that's hitting all its goals and has positioned its six U.S. brands to each wield the power of a $44 billion company locally. The profile story further details how Ahold Delhaize USA has made good on its post-merger promise of "Leading Together" to accelerate growth and position its U.S. brands—including Stop & Shop, Giant/Martin's, Giant Food, Hannaford, Food Lion and Peapod—to focus on ...

2017 Census of Agriculture Data Now Available

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced the results of the 2017 Census of Agriculture, spanning some 6.4 million new points of information about America’s farms and ranches and those who operate them, including new data about on-farm decision making, down to the county level. Information collected by USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) directly from farmers and ranchers tells us both farm numbers and land in farms have ongoing small percentage declines since the last Census in 2012. At the same time, there continue to be more of the largest and smallest operations and fewer middle-sized farms. The average age of all farmers and ranchers continues to ...

ANALYSIS: Tom Weights: A Growing Burden for Turkey Marketers

As participants gauge their expectations for the road ahead, headcount and average live weights are among the most heavily considered variables in play...

Albertsons Companies to Join Blockchain-based IBM Food Trust Network to Pilot Increased Transparency

Albertsons Companies, one of the largest food and drug retailers in the United States, is joining the blockchain-based IBM Food Trust network and will begin piloting the technology to improve how food is traced from farm to store shelf. The addition of Albertsons Companies to the Food Trust ecosystem of more than 80 brands brings blockchain-based food traceability to more consumers and industry players – from producers to suppliers to retailers – by helping enable greater transparency and collaboration, and ultimately, a safer food supply.

Blockchain is a system of record that establishes a shared environment for food transactions in which all participants can collaborate in a highly secured and ...

Rabobank: Rising African Swine Fever Losses to Lift All Protein Boats

Production losses from African swine fever (ASF) have eclipsed initial estimates. The Chinese pork production shortfall, along with shortfalls in Southeast Asia, will create challenges and opportunities for animal protein exporters.

In 2019, we expect Chinese pork production losses of 25% to 35% in response to ASF. Reports of extreme losses (over 50%) are limited to confined areas.

Sizable breeding herd losses will delay the Chinese pork industry’s recovery. Rebuilding efforts will be further complicated by the risk of recontamination, despite ...

Research and Markets: The Global Food Robotics Market a $3.1 Billion Opportunity by 2025 

The global food robotics market will grow at a CAGR of 12.7% from 2019 to 2025 to reach $3,107.4 million by 2025.

Driven by increasing food safety regulations, rising demand for packaged foods, growing demand to improve productivity, increasing production of low-cost robots, increase in investments for automated solutions in food industry, growing demand for reducing production cost and increasing food shelf-life, and entry of new-players which has led to the emergence of advanced robotic technologies.

However, the lack of a skilled workforce in emerging economies restricts the market growth to some extent. Moreover, the high cost of installation and service charges of robotic systems, and ...

Amazon Expands Grocery Delivery from Whole Foods Market

Amazon and Whole Foods Market today launched delivery of natural and organic products from Whole Foods Market through Prime Now in Asheville, Charlottesville, Columbia, Lexington, Little Rock, Manchester, Mobile, Naples and Savannah. 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 75 U.S. metros and will continue to expand throughout 2019.

Today also marks another expansion of grocery pickup from Whole Foods Market to Columbus, Ohio. Grocery pickup from Whole Foods Market is available in 30 U.S. metros, with plans for ...

TGI Fridays Introduces Four New Sizzling Entrées

When it comes to mouthwatering sizzle that satisfies every appetite, no one does it hotter or tastier than TGI Fridays™, especially with the addition of four new Sizzling Entrées that join two of the brand's most popular, best-selling entrées – Sizzling Chicken & Cheese and Sizzling Chicken & Shrimp.

"Simply put, Fridays always brings the sizzle," said Cindy Syracuse, TGI Fridays Vice President of Marketing. "That's why we decided to expand the Sizzling menu for a limited time only – with taste innovations that celebrate everyone's favorite flavors."

The four new Sizzling Entrées that are featured for a limited time include ...

Tim Horton's Introduces Tims Rewards in the U.S. 

The number seven is about to become the new favorite number for Tim Hortons® guests. Not only was the number seven hockey legend Tim Horton’s retiring jersey number, but also starting today, Americans will be rewarded after every seventh visit with new Tims Rewards.

With the new rewards program, guests will be eligible for a free hot brewed coffee or hot tea (any size), or baked good (except for Timbits® and bagels) after every seventh visit*.

Tims Rewards is simple and easy to use ...

Hormel Foods to Become Powered by Nearly 50 Percent Renewable Energy

Hormel Foods Corporation (NYSE: HRL), maker of SKIPPY®, SPAM®, Hormel® Natural Choice®, Hormel® Black Label®, Columbus® and many other branded food products, has announced a virtual power purchase agreement (VPPA) for wind energy. Through this and other initiatives, the company will be supplied by almost 50 percent renewable wind power. In addition, the project will result in a reduction of approximately 197,000 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions.

"As a leading corporate citizen in our industry, we are inspired by projects that minimize environmental impacts and align with the interests of our customers and consumers around the world," said Tom Raymond, director of environmental sustainability at Hormel Foods. "This agreement supports our company's environmental sustainability goals and is ...

Great American Marketing Co. Recalls Meat and Poultry Wrap and Salad Products

Great American Marketing, Inc., a Houston, Texas establishment, is recalling approximately 3,329 pounds of ready-to-eat meat and poultry wrap and salad products that may be adulterated with Listeria monocytogenes, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The ready-to-eat wrap and salad meat and poultry products were produced on various dates from March 27, 2019 through April 8, 2019. The following products are subject to recall ...

Kroger Announces Executive Promotions to Support Restock Kroger

The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) today announced several executive promotions to support Restock Kroger and the company's long-term growth.

"We are making progress on redefining the customer experience, and our high-performing leaders are determined to maintain that momentum in year two of Restock Kroger and beyond," said Mike Donnelly, Kroger's executive vice president and chief operating officer. "Each of these promotions is consistent with Kroger's track record of strong succession planning and will help ensure we continue driving toward our growth objectives."

"We have a leadership team that combines deep experience with creative new talent," said Tim Massa, Kroger's senior vice president of human resources and chief people officer. "In our dynamic retail environment, we continue to ...

USTR Proposes Products for Tariff Countermeasures in Response to Harm Caused by EU Aircraft Subsidies

The World Trade Organization (WTO) has found repeatedly that European Union (EU) subsidies to Airbus have caused adverse effects to the United States. Today, the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) begins its process under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 to identify products of the EU to which additional duties may be applied until the EU removes those subsidies.

USTR is releasing for public comment a preliminary list of EU products to be covered by additional duties. USTR estimates the harm from the EU subsidies as $11 billion in trade each year. The amount is subject to ...

Easter Bunny Blues: Lower Than Eggspected Egg Prices

This week Brian Moscogiuri discusses production and inventory levels and the impact on the egg market. We also cover exports, retail, and carrot cake- yum!

Affluence in America: Baby Boomers Control Nation’s Wealth, but Shifts are Underway

By a wide margin, Baby Boomer households control more wealth than any other generation, according to market research firm Packaged Facts in the brand new report The Financial Services Market: Affluent and High Net Worth Consumers, 8th Edition.

Packaged Facts estimates that in 2019 Baby Boomer households garner 54% of total U.S. household net worth, followed by Generation X and Silent Generation/Senior households. Well behind, Millennial households contribute only 4% of total U.S. household net worth.

Despite current trends, Packaged Facts’ research reveals that major generational shifts are underway ...

Retail Imports Rising Again as Summer Approaches

With tariff increases delayed for the foreseeable future and the busy summer season approaching, imports at the nation’s major retail container ports are beginning to climb again, according to the monthly Global Port Tracker report released today by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates.

“Retailers are starting to stock up in anticipation of a strong summer,” NRF Vice President for Supply Chain and Customs Policy Jonathan Gold said. “Tariff increases are on hold and progress is being reported in talks between the United States and China, so the imports we’re seeing now are driven primarily by expectations for consumer demand.”

U.S. ports covered by Global Port Tracker handled 1.62 million Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units in February, the latest month for ...

Applebee's Bolder Grill Combos Return for a Limited Time

Got a burning love for a great deal? Applebee’s® Neighborhood Grill + Bar guests are in luck with the return of Bigger, Bolder Grill Combos nationwide, starting today at participating restaurants. This fan-favorite offers guests the choice of one of five grill combinations, each featuring a pair of entrees and an abundance of sides for the most extreme value. Starting at only $12.99,* this limited time offer will not set your wallet on fire, but like a flame, it will be gone before you know it.

With everything from Half Rack Baby Back Ribs with Spicy Texas BBQ & Grilled Chicken Breast with Fireball® Whisky-infused Sauce to Crispy Shrimp & Grilled Salmon with Honey BBQ Sauce, this menu is...

State of the Restaurant Industry

What's the outlook for restaurants in 2019? The National Restaurant Association's 2019 State of the Restaurant Industry report provides the details.

Overview

Five key trends shaping the restaurant industry in 2019

• A competitive business environment.

While restaurant operators generally are optimistic about business conditions, they don't expect a letdown in competitive pressures in 2019. In addition, rising labor costs and ...

USDA Confirms Virulent Newcastle Disease in Pet Chickens in Arizona; Not a Food Safety Concern

The United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) confirmed the presence of virulent Newcastle disease in a small flock of pet chickens in Coconino County, Arizona. This is the first case of virulent Newcastle disease in Arizona.

This case is believed to be connected to the current outbreak of virulent Newcastle disease in California, as tests show the virus is almost identical to the virus causing disease ...

Worldwide Market Insights Study: Online Food Delivery Services Sees Rapid Growth 

The "Global Online Food Delivery Services Market Size, Market Share, Application Analysis, Regional Outlook, Growth Trends, Key Players, Competitive Strategies and Forecasts, 2018 To 2026" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The Online food delivery services market was valued at US$ 81.56 Bn in 2017 and will be growing at a CAGR of 9.8% during the forecast period from 2018 to 2026.

In recent years, online food delivery has witnessed rapid growth. The rise of the digital technology has reshaped the food delivery services market and consumers expect ...

Maple Leaf Advances Leadership in Growing Plant-Based Protein Market with New Production Facility 

Maple Leaf Foods Inc. ("Maple Leaf" or the "Company") (TSX: MFI) and its wholly owned subsidiary, Greenleaf Foods, SPC, today announced plans to construct a US$310 million plant-based protein food processing facility in Shelbyville, Indiana. At approximately 230,000 square feet, it will be the largest facility and investment of its kind in North America. The Company will also invest approximately US$26 million to keep pace with ongoing growth in demand at its existing facilities. This strategic initiative will support Maple Leaf's continued growth and leadership in the rapidly expanding market for plant-based protein.

"With Lightlife and Field Roast, we own the leading brands in the North American refrigerated plant-based protein market," said Michael H. McCain, President and CEO. "This investment will secure our ...

Retail Feedback Study: Grocery Shoppers Digital Interaction Strengthening

The Retail Feedback Group (RFG), a leader in providing actionable stakeholder feedback, today released the 2019 U.S. Supermarket Digital & Social Engagement Study.

Digital Interaction with Supermarkets Strengthening

More than six out of ten (63%) of supermarket shoppers interact with their supermarket digitally, up from the 56% found in 2017. More than half check a digital circular (55%), while smaller percentages are building...

U.S. Broiler Industry Creates almost 200,000 New Jobs, Economic Output Up 11 Percent in Two Years

The broiler chicken industry provides 1,393,739 jobs, $76.5 billion in wages, $347 billion in total economic activity and $27 billion in government revenue, according to an updated economic impact study that highlights the positive impact the poultry industry has on the nation’s economy. This data reflects almost 200,000 new jobs and an 11% increase in total economic output since the study was last updated in late 2016.

The study was funded by USPOULTRY and was conducted by John Dunham & Associates, based in New York City. The study was updated using the most current methodology available and ...

ANALYSIS: A Chicken Wing Price Reflection

As the second seasonally-anticipated rally for the chicken wing market begins to wind down, reflecting back, it has proven to be an eventful season for America’s favorite finger food...

Blount Fine Foods Recalls Ready-To-Eat Chicken Soup Products

Blount Fine Foods, a Fall River, Mass. establishment, is recalling an undetermined amount of ready-to-eat chicken soup products due to misbranding and an undeclared allergen, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The product contains milk, a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label.

The institutional, frozen “Chicken & Poblano Pepper Soup” items, which were labeled incorrectly as “Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup,” were produced on Jan. 24, 2019. The following product is subject to recall ...

Trump Appoints Former Executive Conference Keynote to Federal Reserve 

On March 22^nd, President Trump appointed Stephen Moore to one of the two open seats on the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve. Moore is a longstanding member of the economic community and has served on the editorial board of The Wall Street Journal, as well as contributing on economic policy to Fox News and CNN. Moore is also a Distinguished Visiting Fellow of the Heritage Foundation.

Another place that Urner Barry clients might recognize Moore from is our Executive Conference. Moore has been a keynote speaker at the Conference twice, once in 2012 and again in 2016. He spoke on the political and economic landscape at the time to a host of attendees from the meat and poultry industry. Now he’s been nominated to one of the most...

Retailers Warn Border Closure would be ‘Self-Inflicted Wound to the American Economy’

The National Retail Federation today sent a letter to Trump administration officials expressing concerns over ongoing threats to close the United States-Mexico border and outlining how a closure would hurt U.S. retailers, workers and consumers.

“We share the administration’s goal of fixing the nation’s broken immigration system and enhancing border security,” NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay said. “However, there is no way to close the U.S-Mexico border without inflicting serious damage to ...

Final Four Signature Snacks Unveiled for NCAA Men’s Basketball Championship at U.S. Bank Stadium

When the 2019 Men’s Final Four in Minneapolis tips off this weekend, there will be plenty for fans to cheer about both on and off the court. Aramark (NYSE: ARMK), the food and beverage provider for U.S. Bank Stadium, has created four signature items that pay tribute to the teams vying for the national championship.

“The Final Four is the pinnacle of the college basketball season, so we strove to create a menu that celebrates the occasion and embodies the fans’ school spirit with signature snacks inspired by each team’s hometown ...

Boston Market Springs into Spring with New Seasonal Flavors and Easter Offerings

Just in time for spring, the rotisserie everything experts at Boston Market® are serving up new, seasonal-inspired dishes featuring fresh flavors of the warmer months. Starting April 1, Boston Market will serve its famous rotisserie chicken with a new balsamic twist, as well as a new side dish and dessert, available nationwide only through June 2. The new spring menu selections include ...

Podcast: Joel Schaffer from Butler Street

Urner Barry offers insight into their experience with Butler Street. Butler Street offers executive level sales training that can benefit any company. If you're trying to optimize your sales team streamline operations, listen in!

Cargill Taps Stone, Webster for Agricultural Supply Chain and Animal Nutrition Leadership Roles 

Cargill has selected Joe Stone, currently enterprise leader for Cargill Animal Nutrition, to lead the company’s global Agricultural Supply Chain. David Webster will assume the Cargill Animal Nutrition leadership role vacated by Stone. Both announcements follow GJ van den Akker’s decision to retire as enterprise lead for Cargill’s Agricultural Supply Chain in 2020 after 30 years with the company.

"GJ and his leadership team have improved results in our ag supply chain while also driving important progress on critical safety, digitalization and sustainability goals," said Dave MacLennan, Cargill chairman and CEO. "Joe’s extensive risk management, trading, and grains and oilseeds experience will allow him to ...

ANALYSIS: Pork Pressure Prompts Promising Turkey Potential

From a historical perspective, marketers of turkey and pork are no strangers to some good ol’ fashioned cross-protein competition...

Technomic's Take: Five Ways Legal Marijuana Impacts Restaurants

Recreational marijuana is legal in 10 states, with as many as 12 more expected to approve in the next 18 months. Pressure from changing social norms, product marketers and the mind-boggling tax revenue potential is likely to prompt the federal government to change marijuana’s classification by 2023 at the latest, opening the door for a cannabis boom.

Current recreational use regulations largely prohibit marijuana and cannabis consumption in public spaces, including away-from-home establishments, particularly those where ...

Record U.S. Convenience Store Food, Merchandise Sales in 2018

U.S. convenience stores experienced a 16th straight year of record in-store sales in 2018, according to newly released NACS State of the Industry data, the convenience and fuel retailing industry's premier benchmarks and key performance category insights.

U.S. convenience stores sales overall surged 8.9% to $654.3 billion, led by a 13.2% increase in fuel sales, which account for 69.6% of total sales. In-store sales increased 2.2% to a record $242.2 billion. Overall, convenience stores sales are 3.1% of the U.S. gross domestic product of ...

Blue Apron Appoints Linda Findley Kozlowski as President and Chief Executive Officer

Blue Apron Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: APRN) today announced that its Board of Directors has appointed Linda Findley Kozlowski as President, Chief Executive Officer, and a member of the Board of Directors, effective as of April 8, 2019. Kozlowski brings a proven record of success at innovative, consumer-focused companies, having most recently served as Chief Operating Officer of Etsy, Inc. and prior to that as COO of Evernote Corporation. Brad Dickerson, who joined Blue Apron as Chief Financial Officer in February 2016 and was appointed as President, CEO and a member of the Board of Directors in November 2017, has decided to resign in order to pursue new opportunities. Following Kozlowski’s appointment, he will serve as an advisor to the company for a period of time to assist with the transition.

“This is an exciting time to join Blue Apron,” said Kozlowski. “Over the past year, the company has made significant product, platform and operational advancements, and ...

Little Caesars Hires Jeff Klein as New Senior Vice President of Global Marketing

Little Caesars is excited to announce that Jeff Klein will take on the role of Senior Vice President of Global Marketing at the nearly 60-year-old pizza company.

Klein has served nearly 20 years in progressive marketing leadership positions, most recently spending the last 2 years at PepsiCo as chief marketing officer for global foodservice. Prior to that Jeff spent 10 years at Frito-Lay North America in ...

ALDI Announces Commitments to Plastic Packaging Reduction

ALDI is pleased to announce a series of commitments it has made to help combat the global plastics crisis. By 2025, 100 percent of ALDI packaging, including plastic packaging, will be reusable, recyclable or compostable. ALDI will also reduce packaging material across its entire range by at least 15 percent.

ALDI has the ability to influence how its products are sourced, produced and brought to shelves because more than 90 percent of its range is ALDI-exclusive. The company is committed to working with its supplier community to achieve the following comprehensive goals ...

Subway Announces Expansion of Global Food Innovation Partnership with Tastemade

Subway and Tastemade have announced an expansion of their first-of-its-kind global food innovation alliance. The world's largest restaurant chain and the modern media brand, made up of creators and food explorers united by their love and passion for great tasting food, are collaborating to create menu items designed to complement Subway's current offerings while inspiring new tastes that guests can't find anywhere else.

Subway and Tastemade first announced their innovative collaboration to deliver unique food offerings in North America and Latin America in August 2018. Since the inception of the partnership, hundreds of menu items have been developed using unique data and insights derived from the Tastemade audience, and ...

U.S. Plant-Based Meat Market to Reach $3 Billion by 2024 

According to a new study by Research and Markets, the U.S. plant-based meat market is expected to reach a value of around $3 billion by 2024, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 24% during 2018 to 2024.

The growing traction towards the wellness consumer trend is fueling the demand for plant-based products, creating lucrative opportunities in the U.S. plant-based meat market. Brands are becoming more health-focused, and the exponential growth of food trucks, delivery, and takeout along with ...

Amazon's Next Push into Grocery Biz Faces Stout Headwinds, Expert Says

While its brick-and-mortar supermarket strategy is likely to add to the pressure, Amazon is hardly set to steamroll top grocers with its purported plans to open stores under a new, more mainstream brand, advised Joe McKeska, Senior Managing Director at A&G Realty Partners.

Observers are buzzing about Amazon's plans, originally reported in The Wall Street Journal, to open "dozens" of grocery stores in leading U.S. markets. However, McKeska cautioned, it's important to remember that existing grocers boast years of experience. They have also been heavily investing in their digital and online capabilities, said the Oak Brook-based executive, whose firm assists retailers with portfolio strategy, due diligence, value-add lease negotiations, and real estate disposition, subleasing, and ...

Denny's Announces New Menu Additions And Kicks Off Spring With Limited Time Meat Lovers Slam

Starting today, Denny's has added a delicious, high-quality line-up of new, culinary-forward dishes to its menu that is sure to delight hungry guests. In addition to the menu offerings, Denny's is introducing a new hearty member of the value-friendly Slam family: the Meat Lovers Slam. In the spirit of continuing to offer guests more for less, this substantial meal features two fresh eggs, two buttermilk pancakes, three strips of bacon and three sausage links, all for the unbeatable price of $5.99*.

Not to be outdone by breakfast, the Denny's dinner and lunch menu is also introducing flavorful showstoppers like the Southwest Chorizo Burger with pepper jack queso and five pepper sauce and craveable beer-battered onion rings. Not only can guests ...

Global Economic Conditions Ended 2018 on an Upbeat Note, but Market Conditions Vary Around the World

At a macro level, economic conditions around the globe ended 2018 on an upbeat note. Global consumer confidence, as reported by the Conference Board, was at its highest level in 14 years, a full seven points above the baseline confidence level of 100. That said, however, 39 of the 64 countries included in the global Consumer Confidence Index, which is produced in collaboration with Nielsen, reported declines in confidence, well above the 19 in third-quarter 2018.

Fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) and GDP growth was strongest in Asia-Pacific, and consumers in the region feel the best globally about their financial well-being. In fact, 70% of consumers in Asia-Pacific report feeling feel better off than they did five years ago. Comparatively, only 37% of consumers in Europe believe their conditions have improved over ...

Southeast Asia’s Growing Meat Demand and Its Implications for Feedstuffs Imports

Southeast Asia’s rising incomes, growing population, and increasing urbanization have contributed to growth in livestock production and meat consumption, particularly poultry and pork. Southeast Asia includes 10 countries: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. This article focuses on five key emerging markets within the region: Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam (5 Southeast Asian Countries). According to USDA’s International Long-Term Projections to 2028, the region will become the world’s fastest-growing importer of soybean meal—a key ingredient in animal feed—over the next decade and will overtake the European Union (EU) as the largest soybean meal importer by 2022. In addition to its expanding pork and poultry production, the region’s growing imports of ...

Bojangles’ Names Jackie Woodward Chief Marketing Officer

Bojangles’, Inc. today announced that brand strategist and marketing veteran Jackie Woodward has joined the company as its new Chief Marketing Officer, reporting directly to Jose Armario, Chief Executive Officer. Woodward will work alongside the brand’s respected long-time marketing chief Randy Poindexter over the next several months to ensure a seamless transition. The company recently announced Poindexter’s retirement after 28 years as the iconic brand’s top marketing executive.

Woodward comes to Bojangles’ with more than 30 years of marketing experience in domestic and global markets. In addition to recently serving as Global Chief Marketing Officer for North Carolina-based Krispy Kreme Doughnut Corporation, she also served as ...

Walmart Offers New Voice Capabilities for Grocery Shopping 

Customers love our Grocery Pickup and Delivery options. These services make life easier and help customers get back to the things they like doing the most.

What if we could make it even easier?

We continue to innovate for the future and look to technology to make great services even better in the future. Introducing: Walmart Voice Order.

With the new voice ordering capabilities we’re building across platforms with partners like Google, we’re helping ...

Restaurant Performance Index Edged Lower in February

As a result of softer readings in the current situation indicators, the National Restaurant Association’s Restaurant Performance Index (RPI) registered a modest decline in February. The RPI – a monthly composite index that tracks the health of and outlook for the U.S. restaurant industry – stood at 101.0 in February, down slightly from a level of
101.2 in January.

While restaurant operators continued to report positive same-store sales in February, customer traffic turned negative for the first time in five months. Although 50 percent of operators expect their sales to be higher in six months ...

February Retail Sales Increased 2.7 Percent Over 2018

Retail sales were down 0.7 percent in February seasonally adjusted from January but up 2.7 percent unadjusted year-over-year as delays and revisions related to the government shutdown continued to make comparisons difficult, the National Retail Federation said today. The numbers exclude automobile dealers, gasoline stations and restaurants.

“The weaker-than-expected February retail sales numbers reflect colder weather and increased precipitation that kept shoppers home but were also skewed downward because of the government’s upward revision in January’s results,” NRF Chief Economist Jack Kleinhenz said. “The aftereffects of the ...

Convenience Meets Healthy: New Grab and Go Trends Emerge

Consumers who shop at convenience stores want fresher, healthier food options, according to new research from facilities management leader Vixxo. In the nationwide survey of more than 1,000 consumers, 1 in 3 Americans would frequent a convenience store more if it offered healthy snack items.

The study also found that Americans tend not to be loyal to a specific location, but rather visit multiple convenience stores on a regular basis, emphasizing the value of desired products to drive growth. In expressing their desire for more variety ...

Bipartisan Group of 47 Senators Urges Trump Administration to Withdraw Proposed SNAP Rule

Today, U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.) and Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) led a bipartisan letter that raised concerns about the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s proposed rule to make harmful changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and urged Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue to withdraw the proposal.

“The proposed changes would take food assistance away from Americans struggling to find stable employment while doing nothing to help them to actually become permanently employed,” the Senators wrote. “This is contrary to Congressional intent, evidenced by the passage of ...

Perdue Applauds President Trump's Selection for USDA's Chief Financial Officer

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue today applauded President Donald J. Trump’s selection of Scott Soles to be the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Chief Financial Officer. Regarding the announcement, Secretary Perdue issued this statement:

“The nomination of Scott Soles to be USDA’s CFO is welcome news. With over 30 years of experience in internal and external financial auditing, consulting, and finance operations, Scott Soles will bring valuable financial management experience and ...

Market of Choice, Inc. Recalls Pork and Poultry Products 

Market of Choice, Inc., an Eugene, Ore. establishment, is recalling approximately 1,094 pounds of pork and poultry pâté products due to misbranding and undeclared allergens, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The products contain milk and soy, known allergens, which are not declared on the product label.

The pork and poultry pâté items were produced on various dates prior to March 26, 2019. The products have a 30-day shelf life. The following products are subject to recall ...

FAT Brands Announces Multi-Unit Development Deal in Shanghai

FAT (Fresh. Authentic. Tasty.) Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: FAT) (“FAT Brands” or the “Company”), parent company of Fatburger, The Last Great Hamburger Stand™, announces the development of six new co-branded Fatburger and Buffalo's Express restaurants throughout Shanghai with Bloomfield Pty. Ltd. The new locations will build on FAT Brands' existing presence in China, where the company currently operates multiple successful locations in both Beijing and Shanghai.

Fatburger, the beloved Hollywood burger chain founded by Lovie Yancey, maintains and upholds its unique culture and trademark menu offerings crafted by founder Lovie Yancey when she launched the brand almost 70 years ago. Each Fatburger burger is made-to-order with traditional fixings and ...

The Emerging Foodservice Brands of 2019 

A recent report by Fishbowl has defined emerging brands in the restaurant industry as chains with 5-75 units that exhibit a strong promise of potential growth in the future and embrace developments that are innovative and unique. These locations generate excitement, and consumers express interest in discovering these restaurants as the brands grow. The 2019 list was developed by survey analytics to obtain nominees from industry experts, food enthusiasts, executives, and advisors. Fishbowl then leveraged proprietary social data software to analyze more structured reviews, check-ins, and ratings. The Fishbowl Social Score was also used to rank the brands, using key performance indicators to rate restaurants on a score derived from the mining of consumer feedback. The algorithm is calculated on each brand's sentiment score, consumer ratings, check-in frequency, an enthusiasm index, and ...

This Week in Retail: Warmer Weekend Forecast Beckons Grillers, Retailers Promote Accordingly

While much of the Midwest remains somewhat stuck in winter (our condolences), temperatures elsewhere in the U.S. are starting to feel more like spring—and that means grilling season is almost here.

Both coasts, parts of the Northeast, and much of the Southeast looks to be thawing out with average temperatures this weekend expected to be 60 degrees and above. Hints of spring result in many consumers dusting off the grill and heading to grocery stores to procure their favorite proteins—and grocers are more than happy to answer the call.   

Ground beef feature volume soared this week, claiming nearly 30 percent of beef ad space versus just 16 percent the week prior. Steak features are also higher week over week, accounting for...

Domino's Pizza Celebrates the Opening of Its 10,000th International Store

Domino's Pizza, (NYSE: DPZ), the largest pizza company in the world based on global retail sales, is celebrating the opening of the brand's 10,000th international store today. The store is located in the IBC Mall at 3008 Buxin Road in the Luohu District of Shenzhen, China.

"Not only are we excited to open the 200th Domino's location in mainland China, but we are thrilled that it marks the brand's 10,000th store outside of the U.S.," said Frank Krasovec, chairman of Dash Brands Ltd. – Domino's master franchisee in China. "We look forward to bringing our delicious pizzas, quality products and ...

Cargill Reports Fiscal 2019 Third-Quarter Results

Cargill today reported results for the fiscal 2019 third quarter and first nine months ended Feb. 28, 2019. Key measures include:

• Adjusted operating earnings were $604 million, up 8 percent from the $559 million earned last year. This brought earnings for the first nine months to $2.34 billion, a 2 percent decrease from the prior year.
• Net earnings on a U.S. GAAP basis for the quarter were $566 million, a 14 percent increase from $495 million in the year-ago period. For the nine-month period, net earnings declined 3 percent to $2.33 billion.
• Third-quarter revenues decreased 4 percent to ...

Papa John’s Appoints Karlin Linhardt as Global Chief Marketing Officer

Papa John’s International, Inc. (NASDAQ: PZZA), one of the world’s largest pizza delivery companies, today announced the appointment of Karlin Linhardt as its Global Chief Marketing Officer. Mr. Linhardt is a veteran marketing leader with deep Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) category experience and C-suite executive roles at global Fortune-500 restaurant companies, consumer brands and top professional services firms, including Anheuser-Busch, McDonald’s, Accenture and Subway.

In his most recent role, Mr. Linhardt served as Senior Vice President of Marketing for North America for Subway Restaurants, where he led brand management and guest experience for 30,000 restaurants and designed the company’s global brand transformation plan. Prior to Subway, Mr. Linhardt served as ...

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit Promotes New Chief Financial Officer

Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, the largest barbecue franchise in the world, announces the promotion of Jay Rooney to Chief Financial Officer of Dickey’s Barbecue Pit and its affiliate brands. For the past two years, Jay has served as Vice President of Finance and Accounting until making the move to CFO.

“As a family-owned business, we are always proud to have one of our family members be promoted to the executive level,” says Roland Dickey, Jr., CEO of Dickey’s Capital Group. “In Jay’s time at Dickey’s, he has been passionate about ...

ANALYSIS: Turkey Freezer Stocks: Something to Gobble About

The latest release of the USDA’s Cold Storage Report has produced more questions than it has answers...

An Appreciation of the Arby’s Tagline

Leroy and Forrest Raffel opened their first sandwich shop, R-B, in Boardman, Ohio, on July 23, 1964. The Raffel brothers were determined to break into the fast food industry with a fresh take in the wake of burger joint comeuppances. Armed with the knowledge that they could fade away if they opened “just another burger joint,” the Raffels instead built their dream on heaping stacks of fresh sliced hot roast beef atop fluffy, delicious bread. These sandwiches, along with chips, extra-large iced teas, and soft drinks, comprised...