The Latest Market Briefing is Here! 

Breakdown the poultry, egg, red meat and seafood markets with exclusive analysis from UB Market Reporters

Urner Barry is the leading provider of protein market news and information in the food industry. Through daily canvasses of the trade and an unrivaled historical database, our analysts are uniquely positioned to report on the underlying conditions and significant disruptors to the market. In this Market Briefing, Urner Barry reporters outline the latest action in the commodity protein markets, highlighting seasonal factors, disruptors, and current supply and demand fundamentals...

Food and Agricultural Workers Prioritized for COVID-19 Vaccine Under Phase 1b

The devastating effects of the pandemic on food and agricultural workers were on full display during the early stage of COVID-19 in the U.S. last year. Several processing plants in the nation experienced complications related to the virus, impacting thousands of employees and upending the food supply chain.

Union representatives and the nation’s largest meat processors are pressing for food and agricultural workers to receive high priority for vaccinations. Phase 1a, the first priority group including...

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Strikes South Korea’s Layer Houses

As Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) strikes South Korea’s layer houses killing more than 8 million hens, the country’s local shell egg prices have started to soar with a 22.4 percent increase compared with an average year as of Wednesday. Demand is especially high for eggs with the approaching Lunar New Year holiday February 11 - 14. As a result, the Korean government has decided to temporarily eliminate tariffs on egg imports for the first time since 2017.

According to The Korea Herald, South Korea's agricultural ministry said Wednesday it plans to “temporarily remove tariffs on imported egg products to resolve a supply shortage.” The government will...

Dr. Jewel Bronaugh Nominated for USDA Deputy Secretary

President Biden has nominated Dr. Jewel Bronaugh, USDA deputy secretary of agriculture. Currently, she serves as the Commissioner of the Virginia Department of Agriculture. If confirmed, Bronaugh would be the highest-ranking African American woman to ever serve in USDA.

She previously was the Executive Director of the Center of Agriculture Research, Engagement and Outreach (CAREO) at Virginia State University (VSU), where she helped expand the impact of...

Mintel: Temporary Slowdown in Meat Reduction Trend as Processed Meat Sales Boom 

The COVID-19 pandemic has proved to be a temporary setback for the flexitarian movement, with the proportion of adults limiting and not eating meat dropping back significantly in 2020 according to new research from Mintel. But as the food and drink industry recovers from the pandemic, Mintel expects that momentum will return to the plant-based industry.

Veganuary may be in full swing, but according to Mintel, the number of Brits actively limiting/reducing and not eating meat in their diet has reduced from half (51%) of all consumers in 2019 down to four in ten (41%) during 2020. Meanwhile, in search of familiar foods, sales of processed meat products, including...

Eat Beyond Adds Above Food to Its Portfolio

Eat Beyond Global Holdings Inc., an investment issuer focused on the global plant-based and alternative food sector, is announcing that it has completed an investment in Above Food Inc.

Above Food develops and distributes premium, whole plant alternatives to meat and dairy by creating nutrient-dense consumer products and branded ingredients. It uses a proprietary blend of plant proteins created from heirloom pulses and gluten free grains. Above Food brings its products to market by...

Chick-fil-A Heats Up Menu with Grilled Spicy Chicken Deluxe Sandwich

Chick-fil-A is kicking off the year by offering a grilled version of a spicy favorite. Starting January 25, Chick-fil-A is introducing the Grilled Spicy Chicken Deluxe Sandwich, available for a limited time at participating restaurants nationwide. The sandwich delivers the same flavor guests love from the current Chick-fil-A spicy offerings, now available in a grilled option.

The Grilled Spicy Deluxe was first developed and tested in Fall 2017 in select markets, where it received positive feedback from guests. It is the first limited-time entrée to be featured on the national menu since...

3 Plant-Based Consumer Insights for Veganuary from Packaged Facts 

Plant-based eating and sustainability are some of the top food trends affecting consumer preferences and food product launches in recent years, causing more general consumers to think about these issues, not just those following veganism or vegetarianism. We are especially reminded of this during Veganuary, the world’s largest vegan movement.

There was a notable uptick in consumer usage of plant-based foods and beverages in 2020 compared to 2019, as reported by Packaged Facts. The market research publisher reports that...

Dr. Omar Ishrak Elected to Cargill Board of Directors

Dr. Omar Ishrak, former executive chairman and CEO of Medtronic, has been elected to the Cargill Board of Directors.

"Omar’s deep international experience and strength in technology and innovation helped Medtronic sustain long-term growth during his tenure as CEO. Under his leadership, Medtronic realized their mission and purpose, introducing products that improved the lives of patients around the world. Omar has a strong record of...

JBS USA And Pilgrim’s Offer $100 Bonus to 66,000 U.S. Team Members to Promote COVID-19 Vaccination

JBS USA and Pilgrim’s announced they would provide a $100 incentive bonus to any U.S. team member who voluntarily chooses to receive a COVID-19 vaccination. The new initiative is designed to encourage maximum participation in the Biden Administration’s accelerated pandemic response efforts and ensure that every JBS USA and Pilgrim’s team member who wants to get vaccinated can do so as soon as vaccines are made available.

“Throughout the pandemic, JBS USA and Pilgrim’s have adopted industry-leading measures to protect our essential frontline workers who continue to provide food for the nation,” said Andre Nogueira, chief executive officer, JBS USA. “Our goal in offering this extra pay to our team members is to...

ANALYSIS: The Tug of War Between Chicken Wings and Boneless Breasts

During October of last year, we explored the growing price disparity between jumbo boneless breast quotations and jumbo-sized whole wings...

U.S. Department of Agriculture Announces Key Staff Appointments

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

Katharine Ferguson was named Chief of Staff in the Office of the Secretary: Most recently, Ferguson served as Associate Director of the Aspen Institute Community Strategies Group. Before joining the Aspen Institute, Ferguson served in the Obama Administration as Chief of Staff for the White House Domestic Policy Council and as Chief of Staff for Rural Development at USDA. Ferguson also worked on the Senate Agriculture Committee and...

ANALYSIS: Whole Body Turkeys: Searching for a Seasonal Perch

With another year under the turkey industry’s belt, buyers and sellers of bagged birds are once again rolling up their sleeves as they...

Urner Barry Presents Plant Protein Insights Webinar 

The plant protein sector is developing rapidly around the globe. Innovative and unique offerings enter the market daily under increased pressure for sustainable and nutritious alternative food options. Demand for plant protein ingredients has become an important benchmark for manufacturers, ingredient providers, startups, traditional protein suppliers, and investors interested in this space.

Join Urner Barry on Thursday, January 21, as host Laura Zinger interviews...

Michael T. Lockard to Become Weis Markets' Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Weis Markets announced Michael T. Lockard, a long-time financial retail executive, will become the Company's Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Treasurer. He will succeed Scott Frost, who is retiring.

To ensure a smooth transition, Mr. Frost will continue to serve as Chief Financial Officer until March 12, at which time Mr. Lockard will assume the role. As Weis Markets' Chief Financial Officer, Mr. Lockard will oversee the day-to-day management of the company's accounting, auditing and financial functions. He will report to Jonathan Weis, Weis Markets Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.

Mr. Lockard has more than 25 years of senior-level executive experience in retail, supermarket and... 

Fueled By the Pandemic, Consumer Packaged Goods Purchases Grew 19% in 2020 Compared to 2019

As consumers hunkered down at home during most of last year, their spending on consumer packaged goods (CPG) grew an average of 19% in 2020 compared to 2019 according to the latest data from NCSolutions, a leader in advertising effectiveness for the CPG industry.

The COVID-19 pandemic caused a significant shift in CPG purchasing habits in 2020 — not just in how much consumers spent, but on what. According to a new NCS consumer survey of more than 2,000 adults, nearly half (47%) of Americans indicated they tried...

Blair John Van Zetten, Egg Industry Icon, Passes Away 

Blair John Van Zetten, egg industry icon, passed away suddenly at the age of 68 on January 18, 2021. Blair was born in Oskaloosa, Iowa, and attended Culver Military Academy. As he got older, he became a counselor for their summer camps. After graduating from Oskaloose High School, he received his BA in Business at Upper Iowa University. Upon the death of his father in 1975, Blair took control of Oskaloosa Food Products.

On June 14, 1975, Blair married Wendy A. Davis, of Syracuse, New York. Together, they raised three sons, Jason, Brandon, and Travis, in Oskaloosa.

His biggest passion, love, and hobby was Oskaloosa Food Products. He was dedicated to the egg industry and voluntarily served...

IHOP Introduces New Signature Burritos and Bowls

IHOP introduced its latest menu innovation, Burritos & Bowls, designed with flavor combinations and easy portability in mind. Starting today, guests can select from a lineup of six different builds – in breakfast, lunch and dinner varieties – all of which can either be wrapped in a flour tortilla or served in a bowl.

The six new Burritos & Bowls flavors range from signature ingredients, like IHOP’s hickory-smoked bacon and include hash browns to hotter fare like poblano queso sauce and...

USDA Offers Additional Assistance for Certain Producers Through Coronavirus Food Assistance Program

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will provide additional assistance through the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP), expanding eligibility for some agricultural producers and commodities as well as updating payments to accurately compensate some producers who already applied for the program. Producers who are now eligible and those who need to modify existing applications due to these updates can contact USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) between Jan. 19 and Feb. 26. Some of these changes are being made to align with the recently enacted Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021 while others are discretionary changes being made in response to ongoing evaluation of CFAP.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has left a deep impact on the farm economy, and we are utilizing the tools and monies available to ease some of the financial burdens on American producers to ensure...

NTF Applauds Expanded Eligibility for CFAP 2

The National Turkey Federation (NTF) welcomed the announcement that USDA will provide additional assistance to contract turkey farmers through the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP 2).

“No industry has escaped the economic challenges of COVID-19, including turkey farming families across the country,” said Joel Brandenberger, NTF president. “The announcement by Secretary Perdue...

NRF Says 2020 Holiday Sales Grew 8.3 Percent Despite Pandemic

Retail sales during 2020’s November-December holiday season grew an unexpectedly high 8.3 percent over the same period in 2019 to $789.4 billion, exceeding the National Retail Federation’s holiday forecast despite the economic challenges of the coronavirus pandemic, NRF said. The numbers include online and other non-stores sales, which were up 23.9 percent at $209 billion.

“Despite unprecedented challenges, consumers and retailers demonstrated incredible resilience this holiday season,” NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay said. “Faced with rising transmission of the virus, state restrictions on retailers and...

Contract Broiler Growers Can Begin to Apply for Federal COVID-19 Relief on January 19

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will provide additional assistance through the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP), expanding eligibility for some agricultural producers and commodities as well as updating payments to accurately compensate some producers who already applied for the program. Producers who are now eligible and those who need to modify existing applications due to these updates can contact USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) between January 19 and February 26.

Contract producers of broilers, pullets, laying hens, chicken eggs (breeders), turkeys and...

Nestlé Prepared Foods Recalls Not-Ready-to-Eat Pepperoni Hot Pockets Product

Nestlé Prepared Foods, a Mt. Sterling, Ky. establishment, is recalling approximately 762,615 pounds of not-ready-to-eat (NRTE) pepperoni hot pockets product that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically pieces of glass and hard plastic, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced.

The frozen NRTE pepperoni hot pockets product was produced from Nov. 13, 2020 through Nov. 16, 2020. The product has a shelf life of 14 months. The following product is subject to recall...

Sysco Releases New Foodie Solutions Toolkits

Sysco Corporation announced the addition of four new toolkits to its Foodie Solutions platform. The Valentine’s Day, Wholesome Dining, Seafood and Greatest Game toolkits are the latest in a series of carefully curated resources that reflect the best ideas from across the foodservice industry for generating additional revenue and meeting consumer expectations for a safe and memorable dining, takeout or delivery experience.

Valentine’s Day is historically one of the most popular holidays to dine out, second only to Mother’s Day. Despite the pandemic, Sysco expects it will remain...

Identity of Primary Plant-Based Food Consumers May Surprise, Reports Packaged Facts

Despite use of plant-based meat or dairy products being highest among those following vegan, vegetarian, or pescatarian diets, it's omnivores and flexitarians who make up the lion's share of consumers who eat these products due to their sheer numbers, reports market research firm Packaged Facts in the report Vegan, Vegetarian, and Flexitarian Consumers. This reveals that both the current and addressable market for plant-based products depends on omnivores and flexitarians using more of these products, especially beyond this month's Veganuary campaign encouraging people to try a plant-based diet.

"Although plant-based meat and dairy alternatives do appeal to some vegans and vegetarians, they are more targeted toward the preferences of omnivores and...

Tyson Introduces New Instant Pot Kit Options

"What's for dinner?" has taken on an entirely new meaning over the last year with more people cooking at home. New flavors of Tyson Instant Pot Kits, Tyson Instant Pot Seasoned Proteins and Tyson Oven Ready Family Size Kits are just what families need to ease the burden and cooking fatigue—protein-packed meals offering that made from scratch taste without the effort.

Cooking and preparing meals from home has increased 67-percent since COVID-19 began. After months of home-cooked meals, families are turning to prepared foods and easy prep meals as a way to...

Beyond Meat Unveils Plans for New Global Headquarters

Beyond Meat, Inc. announced its plans to enter a 12-year lease in a new, nearly 300,000 square foot space at 888 N. Douglas Street in El Segundo, California. The building is currently under development by Hackman Capital Partners with anticipated completion in spring 2021. The site will serve as the company’s new state-of-the-art global headquarters, making it one of the world’s largest and most technologically advanced plant-based research centers. The cutting-edge campus is slated to open in fall of this year and is a substantial increase in the company’s footprint that will support...

NRF Welcomes Necessary Aid as Biden Unveils Stimulus Plan

The National Retail Federation issued the following statement from President and CEO Matthew Shay in response to the release of President-elect Biden’s plan to combat the coronavirus and stimulate the nation’s economic recovery.

“The stimulus plan released by President-elect Biden is expansive in scope, but it serves as an encouraging signal that the new administration intends swift action to support businesses and...

Cargill Survey: At-Home Learning is Changing Parents Buying Habits as School Meals Off the Table

School lunches looked very different at the start of the  2020 school year and with most students still in an e-learning environment, parents and caretakers are preparing meals at home for children more than ever.

A recent survey from Cargill found that 7 out of 10 parents said the coronavirus pandemic had a “moderate or big” impact on their food purchasing habits.

One key behind different purchasing habits includes how breakfast and lunch preparation has become...

ANALYSIS: Boneless Chicken Breasts Blaze the Seasonal Trail

Since the year’s outset, several key lines within the chicken white meat complex have experienced a considerable uptick in...

Mintel Announces Global Food and Drinks Trends for 2021 

Mintel has announced three key trends for the global food, drink, and foodservice industries, including analysis, insights, and recommendations centred around the ‘now’ (next 12 months), the ‘next’ (18 months+), and the ‘future’ (five+ years) of consumer behavior:

• Feed The Mind: Innovative food and drink formulations will offer solutions for mental and emotional wellbeing that will create a new foundation for healthy eating.
• Quality Redefined: Brands will be challenged to respond to...

Over the Past Five Years, U.S. Consumers Added 25 Between-Meal Snacking Occasions Per Capita

Whether it’s for a nutritious treat, comfort from stress, or a quick meal, U.S. consumers increasingly turn to fruits, nuts, and ready-to-eat snack foods throughout the day, reports The NPD Group. Over the past five years, Americans added 25 between-meal snacking occasions per capita, from 505 between-meal snacking occasions per capita in 2015 to 530 in 2020, and consumption of snack foods at meals increased from 21% of eatings in 2010 to 26% in 2020, according to NPD’s Eating Patterns in America, an annual compilation of the company’s daily tracking of the who, what, when, where, why, and how of U.S. consumers’ eating behaviors.

Snacking and snack food consumption follow a daily rhythm in most U.S. households with better-for-you snack foods, like fruit or yogurt, being eaten in the morning; more savory snacks, like...

Current Restaurant Restrictions and Capacity By State

Coronavirus cases in the United States are growing. On Friday the U.S. recorded over 99,000 new cases – the highest single day total recorded by any country. With concerns rising over the upward trend in cases, restaurants across the country are beginning to see a new wave of restrictions. We're breaking down the latest restaurant news by state...

Grubhub Taps Devry Boughner Vorwerk as Chief Corporate Affairs Officer

Grubhub Inc., a leading online and mobile food-ordering and delivery marketplace, announced that Devry Boughner Vorwerk will be joining the company as chief corporate affairs officer, effective Jan. 19. Vorwerk will oversee brand, communications, government relations, public policy and sustainability for the company.

In the newly created role, she is responsible for developing a cohesive brand voice and fostering relationships across the industry to help drive growth and promote Grubhub's continued commitment to supporting restaurants, drivers and diners. Vorwerk will lead the company's communications and...

ANALYSIS: November’s Turkey Export Figures Paint a Mixed Picture

Last month’s uptick in in total year-over-year turkey export tonnage was short-lived, as November’s figures fell back in line with...

Walmart and HomeValet Pilot Smart Box Technology to Receive Fresh Deliveries

When Walmart launched its grocery delivery service in 2018, the company did it for one reason – customers wanted it. Since then, it’s been a lifesaver for busy families. They can simply shop their local store from anywhere and schedule a time to have it delivered right to their front door. It’s incredibly convenient.

But as Walmart's founder, Sam Walton, once said, “To succeed, stay out in front of change.” It’s why Walmart is continuously testing new technology, like drones and autonomous vehicles, to find new ways to serve customers. "Which made us think – what if we could...

QDOBA Launches New Health-Conscious Menu Offerings

Ahead of the New Year, QDOBA launched new, health-conscious creations under the Vegetarian, Keto & More category of their online menu. Introduced on December 29, the new entrées are designed to provide customers with menu options that help meet guests' dietary goals and needs, such as keto, vegetarian, low-carb, gluten-free and more. The offerings include QDOBA's recently introduced Mexican Cauliflower Mash, a low-carb alternative to rice made with fresh cauliflower that's oven-roasted in-house daily.

"With many people looking to improve their personal wellness in the New Year, we wanted to offer our guests a wide range of menu options that help them...

Meat and Poultry Worker COVID-19 Case Rates Five Times Lower in December than May

New analysis of independent data for 2020 show that reported new COVID-19 infection rates amongst meat and poultry workers were five times lower in December than in May, while rates in the general population rocketed up by nine times in the same period.

According to data from the Food and Environment Reporting Network (FERN), the meat and poultry sector was reported to have an average of 19.91 new reported cases per 100,000 workers per...

Butterball to Invest a Total of $8.7 Million in Two Arkansas Processing Facilities

Butterball, one of the largest producers of turkey products in the United States, announced that it is investing a combined $8.7 million and creating a total of 360 new jobs within three years in two processing facilities in Northwest Arkansas. The expansion includes a $4.7 million investment in Ozark where the company will create 160 jobs and a $4 million investment in Huntsville where it will create 200 new jobs.

“Having been a longstanding employer in Arkansas through our feed mills, turkey growing operations and production facilities, Butterball appreciates the continued support from the state of Arkansas as we look to...

Tyson Foods Partners with Matrix to Ensure Employees have Access to the COVID-19 Vaccine

Tyson Foods is partnering with Matrix Medical Network, a leading clinical services company, to ensure the company’s U.S. team members are educated about and have access to the COVID-19 vaccines.

Matrix will collaborate with Tyson Foods’ health services team to deploy mobile health clinics and expert clinical staff to support vaccine communications, administration and counseling at Tyson Foods facilities beginning in early 2021 and continuing throughout the year. Tyson Foods will provide team members with...

Nathan’s Famous Expands Through Third Party Delivery to Canada

Nathan’s Famous, Inc., announces the expansion of their menu offerings to Victoria, Canada. The menu is available to consumers through Uber Eats, DoorDash and SkipTheDishes third-party delivery only. Nathan’s Famous is offering its classic hot dog and fries as well as its expanded menu featuring premium burgers, hand-dipped chicken favorites and more.

“We are excited to bring the Nathan’s Famous menu to Victoria, Canada for the first time in the brand’s history,” said James Walker, SVP, Restaurants. “We expect the brand to resonate well with...

FreshDirect Reveals Top Food Trends for 2021; Online Grocery and Home Cooking Boom to Continue

FreshDirect, a leading pure-play online fresh food grocer serving the Northeast, announced its top food trends for 2021. This year’s predictions were curated by FreshDirect’s in-house team of food experts. As food retailers at the forefront of the industry, FreshDirect has a unique and early view of cutting-edge grocery, ecommerce, and customer trends.

“As a leading online grocer, we have a unique and unmatched ability to understand the ever-changing buying habits of our customers. Our view on past orders, as well as those placed in the future, allows us to spot changes in trends quickly and react to them in real-time. The rapid increase in demand for online grocery and the boom in...

Global Consumer Confidence Improved in Q4

Global consumer confidence increased in the fourth quarter of 2020, driven largely by an improved outlook for personal finances—which, in many regions, reflect unprecedented fiscal measures in response to COVID-19. Prospects for jobs and spending intentions saw smaller improvements in Q4, according to The Conference Board® Global Consumer Confidence Survey.

Conducted in collaboration with Nielsen, the survey found that overall global consumer confidence climbed to 98 in Q4 2020, up six points from 92 in Q2 2020. A reading below 100 is considered...

Del Taco Restaurants Announces Preliminary Unaudited Fourth Quarter and Fiscal Year 2020 Results

Del Taco Restaurants, Inc., reported preliminary unaudited fiscal fourth quarter and fiscal year 2020 sales results for the 16 and 52 week periods ending December 29, 2020. The Company also provided a liquidity and share repurchase update and announced that its Board of Directors has authorized the initiation of a quarterly cash dividend.

Management Commentary

John D. Cappasola, Jr., President and Chief Executive Officer of Del Taco, commented, “We are very pleased to report a system-wide comparable restaurant sales increase of 3.8% during the fourth quarter consisting of positive results at both company-operated and franchised restaurants. We are proud of our restaurant teams, franchisees and support center staff for...

A Look at the Pandemic’s Impact on Restaurant Jobs in 2020

The National Restaurant Association provided a look at how the coronavirus pandemic impacted employment at eating and drinking places throughout 2020.

Overall, the restaurant and foodservice sector was expected to provide 15.6 million jobs in 2020, accounting for 10% of payroll jobs in the economy. Those numbers would take a turn for the worst as the pandemic began in March.

Starting in March, millions of people were left without work as lockdowns and stay-at-home orders were implemented, leading to mass layoffs and furloughs...

Shake Shack Provides Fourth Quarter 2020 Business Update

Shake Shack Inc. announced preliminary unaudited results for the fiscal fourth quarter and the fiscal year ended December 30, 2020 ahead of presenting at the 23rd Annual ICR Conference.

“We are pleased to see trends in the fourth quarter 2020 continue to improve with Average Weekly Sales of $62,000 compared to $58,000 in the third quarter 2020, and $45,000 in the second quarter 2020. Also in the fourth quarter 2020, Same-Shack sales declined 17.4% compared to...

Albertsons Companies Reports Third Quarter Fiscal 2020 Results

Albertsons Companies, Inc. reported results for the third quarter of fiscal 2020, which ended December 5, 2020.

Third Quarter of Fiscal 2020 Highlights

• Identical sales growth of 12.3%
• Digital sales growth of 225%
• Net income per share of...

Cargill Opens Antibiotic-Free Premix Plant in Ohio 

During a virtual event for producers, customers and media, Cargill announced the opening of its new premix animal nutrition facility in Lewisburg, Ohio. The 220,000 square-foot, future-ready facility is deploying advanced technology not previously used in animal agriculture or pet food production that allows the use of less resources to produce feed, while ensuring the highest quality and traceability of its products for Cargill customers.

The Lewisburg West facility broke ground on November 8, 2018 and represents a $50 million investment in expanding Cargill’s existing feed production operations. The facility produces...

Dr. Praeger’s Launches Plant-Based Pizza Toppings

Dr. Praeger’s Sensible Foods, the family owned and operated leader in the all-natural, vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, and kosher frozen food categories for over 25 years, announces they are moving into the pizza category with three plant-based pizza toppings available for foodservice.

The Meatless Pepperoni Slices, Meatless Sausage Toppings and Chick’n Strips are all 100% vegan and kosher certified with zero cholesterol. Sold in 10lb frozen cases for foodservice, these meatless toppings are...

Del Taco Introduces Honey Mango Crispy Chicken

Del Taco Restaurants continues to reinvent its popular crispy chicken menu items. Meet the Honey Mango Crispy Chicken lineup, Del Taco’s sweet start to 2021. For a limited time, the new sauce flavor will be available on the following items:

• $1 Honey Mango Crispy Chicken Taco: Crispy chicken strip, crisp lettuce, freshly grated cheddar cheese, Honey Mango Sauce, in a warm flour tortilla. Available on...

2020 Retail Imports May Break Record Despite Pandemic

Imports seen during 2020 appear to be headed toward a new record despite the coronavirus pandemic, and remain at high levels as 2021 begins, according to the monthly Global Port Tracker report released today by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates.

“Nobody would have thought last spring that 2020 would be a record year for imports, but it was clearly an unpredictable year,” NRF Vice President for Supply Chain and Customs Policy Jonathan Gold said. “Consumers and retailers once again proved their resilience in the face of unprecedented challenges. Thanks in part to government stimulus, retail sales saw...

Giant Food Launches New Private-Label Cook-in-Bag Product Line

Giant Food, the leading greater Washington D.C. regional grocery chain, announces its new private-label Cook-in-Bag product line of convenient meal solutions that will be available at all 164 Giant stores. The new line includes fourteen different meat and seafood entrees that come pre-seasoned or marinated in an oven-ready bag, keeping preparation and clean up to a minimum.

"Our Cook-in-Bag products offer flavorful and simple meal solutions, particularly at a time when many are experiencing cooking fatigue at home," said Tonya Herring, Senior Vice President and Chief Merchandising Officer for Giant Food. "These dishes allow families to explore new recipes that can be paired with...

Instacart Announces Finance Industry Veteran Nick Giovanni is Joining the Company as CFO

Instacart, the leading online grocery platform in North America, announced it has appointed Nick Giovanni as Chief Financial Officer, effective January 27, 2021. Giovanni will oversee finance, accounting and corporate development for the Company, and will report directly to Founder and Chief Executive Officer Apoorva Mehta. Giovanni will succeed current CFO Sagar Sanghvi and the two will be partnering together to ensure a seamless transition.

"We want to thank Sagar for all of his contributions to Instacart over the last five years. During his time at the company, Sagar helped us navigate some of our biggest business milestones while...

Maple Leaf Foods Announces Near-Term Plan to Expand Its Plant Protein Capacity

Maple Leaf Foods announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Greenleaf Foods, SPC, a leader in plant protein products, is advancing plans to increase tempeh production capacity through the acquisition and planned build-out of a food processing plant in Indianapolis, Indiana (the "Project").

Driven by growing demand for its Lightlife® tempeh products, phase 1 of the Project involves the acquisition of a 118,000 square foot plant in Indianapolis which is expected to close in early April, and the installation of tempeh production equipment with initial capacity of approximately...

U.S. Restaurant Industry Ends 2020 Making Its Way Out of the Steep Declines Caused by Pandemic

The U.S. restaurant industry closed one of the most unpopular years in history moving its way out of the steepest declines the industry has experienced since the Great Recession, reports The NPD Group. Customer transaction declines at major restaurant chains in December were down -10% compared to same period year ago, a 27-point improvement from April, the height of the shelter-at-home and restaurant dine-in closure mandates, when transactions declined by -37% from a year ago, according to NPD’s CREST® Performance Alerts, which provides a rapid weekly view of chain-specific transactions and share trends for 75 quick service, fast casual, midscale, and casual dining chains representing...

Kentucky Fried Chicken Introduces New Chicken Sandwich 

Kentucky Fried Chicken kicked off 2021 with the introduction of its best chicken sandwich ever. The new KFC Chicken Sandwich is available in select markets and will be available seven days a week in all 4,000 KFC restaurants in the U.S. by the end of February.

The new sandwich features a quarter-pound, all-white meat, double-breaded chicken breast filet, toasted buttery brioche bun, thicker pickles, and...

World Food Prices Rise for Seventh Month In a Row in December

World food prices rose for the seventh consecutive month in December, led by dairy products and vegetable oils, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations reported.

The FAO Food Price Index averaged 107.5 points in December, 2.2 percent higher than in November. Over the whole of 2020, the benchmark index, which tracks monthly changes in the international prices of commonly-traded food commodities, averaged 97.9 points, a three-year high and a 3.1 percent increase from 2019 although...

ANALYSIS: Chicken Wings Start Year Undefeated

With NFL playoff season at our doorstep, wing marketers are ordinarily gearing up as they prepare for one of the busiest quarters of the year...

Albertsons Companies Debuts Automated Grocery PickUp Kiosk in Chicago 

Albertsons Companies announced that it is the first American grocer to pilot an automated and contactless grocery PickUp kiosk. The kiosk, located at one of its Jewel-Osco stores in Chicago, demonstrates continued expansion of the company’s eCommerce business and deep commitment to providing easy service through its websites and apps.

The automated, temperature-controlled kiosk, created by Cleveron, provides a contactless pickup experience. Customers who select the “Kiosk PickUp” option will be offered 2-hr time slots during which to pick up their groceries.

When customers arrive at the kiosk, they scan a code on their phone and their groceries are...

Burger King Evolves Visual Brand Identity Marking the First Complete Rebrand in Over 20 Years

Burger King is making a leap forward by introducing a completely new visual design that will be present throughout all touchpoints of the guest experience. Inspired by real and delicious food, the more modern look marks the first complete rebrand in over 20 years and will more authentically represent Burger King values. The announcement signals a commitment to digital-first expression and recent improvements to taste and food quality, through the removal of colors, flavors, and preservatives from artificial sources from menu items, as well as...

Conagra Brands Reports Strong Second Quarter Results

Conagra Brands, Inc. reported results for the second quarter of fiscal year 2021, which ended on November 29, 2020. All comparisons are against the prior-year fiscal period, unless otherwise noted. Certain terms used in this release, including "Organic net sales," "EBITDA," and certain "adjusted" results, are defined under the section entitled "Definitions." See page 5 for more information.

Highlights

• Second quarter net sales increased 6.2%, and organic net sales increased 8.1%, with significant growth in each of the
• Company's three retail segments on both a reported and an organic basis.
• Total Company operating margin increased 250 basis points to...

Starbucks Announces Chief Financial Officer Succession

Starbucks Corporation announced that after a more than 35-year career in finance, Patrick Grismer has decided to retire from his position as executive vice president and chief financial officer (cfo) of the Company effective February 1, 2021. Rachel Ruggeri, senior vice president of Finance, Americas and a 16-year Starbucks partner, will succeed Grismer as executive vice president and cfo, effective February 1, 2021. Ruggeri will report to Kevin Johnson, Starbucks president and chief executive officer. Grismer will remain with the company as an advisor to Johnson through May 2, 2021, to ensure a smooth transition.

“I want to thank Pat for his leadership and his many contributions to Starbucks through this period of unprecedented change and transformative growth. He has played an important role helping...

HHS Announces $22 Billion in Funding to Support Expanded Testing, Vaccination Distribution

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced two upcoming actions by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to provide more than $22 billion in funding to states, localities, and territories in support of the nation’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, as directed by the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act.

Funding will provide critical support for testing and vaccination-related activities to jurisdictions before January 19, 2021...

Livekindly Collective Expands Its Brand Portfolio With the Acquisition of Iceland Foods’ No Meat

LIVEKINDLY Collective, a collection of heritage and start-up brands, announced the acquisition of No Meat, Iceland Foods’ vegan meat alternative company.

“This acquisition is very complementary to our current portfolio further strengthening our position in the frozen sector of the fast-growing plant-based meat category", says Domenico Speciale, General Manager for LIVEKINDLY Collective in the UK. "No Meat has been such an incredible success with...

Survey: Meat Will Be a Key Ingredient for Americans Resolving to Eat Better in 2021

As many Americans are into week one of a new eating regimen, Applegate found that 72% of those surveyed believe meat should be part of a healthy diet and that 55% are resolving to cut back on sugar.

Despite the rising popularity of plant-based trends and lab-created “meat” substitutes, the survey found 58% of adults have no plans to consume less meat in 2021 and illustrated how consumers are seeking natural and organic meat products with...

ANALYSIS: Frozen Turkey Drums Continue to March Forward

Turkey marketers are welcoming 2021 with open arms thanks to the relatively admirable set of early-year trade conditions...

PODCAST: Succeeding in Foodservice Through COVID-19

This week on Market Digest Laura is joined by Scott Tenner, Center of the Plate Protein Specialist, of Jacmar Foodservice. Scott discusses the importance of delivering quality ingredients to consumers, navigating...

Blue Apron Names Randy J. Greben Chief Financial Officer

Blue Apron Holdings, Inc. announced that Randy J. Greben has been named Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer, effective January 6, 2021.

Greben brings more than 20 years of finance and e-commerce operations experience to his new role, including a record of implementing strategic growth and scaling initiatives. As Chief Financial Officer, he will be responsible for Blue Apron’s financial and treasury functions, reporting to President and...

NRF Chief Economist says Latest Stimulus will Help Continue Recovery from Pandemic

Economic challenges brought on by the coronavirus pandemic will continue in 2021, but stimulus legislation signed into law just after Christmas will help maintain and accelerate the nation’s ongoing recovery, National Retail Federation Chief Economist Jack Kleinhenz said.

“As we closed out 2020, it was an end to a whirlwind year whose challenging economic environment will almost certainly continue in 2021,” Kleinhenz said. “The coming year might be just as eventful as the economic recovery faces many uncertainties...

Britain’s Drive Thru Spend Up 45% September to November 2020

The trend for ordering food and drinks from our cars at Britain’s growing number of drive-thru restaurants soared from September to November 2020 according to global information company The NPD Group. There were 121 million visits to Britain’s 2,000 quick service restaurants (QSR) that offer drive-thru in those three months in 2020, a 14% increase on the same period last year. Spend was up 45% to £723m over this time frame, with consumers tending to place larger-than-average orders at the drive-thru window.

According to footfall analysis from NPD’s SnapMyEats data, the growth in drive-thru in these three months was a result of consumers switching from eating in and takeaway options during lockdowns and tiering, rather than...

Amazon Continues to Expand Its Transportation Fleet With Purchased Aircraft

Amazon announced its first-ever purchase of eleven Boeing 767-300 aircraft, expanding its fleet to continue to serve customers. The purchases include seven aircraft from Delta and four aircraft from WestJet, which will join the network by 2022. Amazon Air’s fleet expansion comes at a time when customers are relying on fast, free shipping more than ever.

“Our goal is to continue delivering for customers across the U.S. in the way that they expect from Amazon, and purchasing our own aircraft is a natural next step toward that goal,” said Sarah Rhoads, Vice President of Amazon Global Air. “Having a mix of both...

Grocers Begin Offering the COVID-19 Vaccine

As shipments of the COVID-19 vaccine are being sent out around the United States, grocery chains are preparing to offer the vaccine through their pharmacies. Clearance for immunizations came in December, after the FDA authorized the use of the first COVID-19 vaccine developed by Pfizer and its German partner BioNTech SE. The second vaccine to be authorized was developed by Moderna, which the FDA stated can be given to people 18 years of age and older and cited the shot's high effectiveness in preventing COVID-19 in a large clinical study.

Kroger announced it will provide the COVID-19 vaccine nationwide across its 2,200 pharmacies and 220 clinics, partnering with the federal government and state health departments to administer the vaccine in accordance with...

McDonald's to Launch Three New Chicken Sandwiches Next Month

McDonald's is launching three chicken sandwiches beginning February 24, joining long-time sandwich favorites like the Big Mac, Quarter Pounder, Egg McMuffin, and Filet-O-Fish. The new options include a Crispy Chicken Sandwich, Spicy Chicken Sandwich, and the Deluxe Chicken Sandwich.

McDonald's began testing the Crispy Chicken Sandwich in Houston and Knoxville, Tennessee, last year. The sandwich is made of a fried chicken filet served on a potato roll, topped with butter and pickles. The spicy option comes with a spicy pepper sauce, and the deluxe sandwich comes with shredded lettuce, tomatoes, and mayo.

In November, Joe Erlinger, President of McDonald's USA, said a new crispy chicken sandwich would...

Chipotle Launches Cilantro-Lime Cauliflower Rice for New Lifestyle Bowls 

Chipotle Mexican Grill announced Cilantro-Lime Cauliflower Rice is available at U.S. and Canadian restaurants for a limited time. Chipotle's latest plant-based option is made with freshly grilled, riced cauliflower, finished with hand-chopped cilantro, lime, and salt, and prepared fresh in-restaurant every day.

New Year, New Start

Chipotle fans can start 2021 off with a new rice option that is compliant with Keto, Whole30®, Paleo, Vegan, and Vegetarian diets. Cilantro-Lime Cauliflower Rice has...

Sonic Kicks Off 2021 by Offering Chicken Sliders For a Limited Time 

To start off the new year, Sonic announced the return of its fan-favorite Chicken Slingers for a limited time.

At approximately 350 calories, the Chicken Slinger features a 100% all-white meat chicken fillet topped with mayo and pickles on a brioche bun. The Spicy Chicken Slinger takes it up a notch with Sonic’s new Spicy Ranch.

“The measure of any tasty chicken sandwich is the fillet itself so we took the time to...

Muscle Maker Grill Opens the Doors to Their First Ghost Kitchen Location

Muscle Maker, Inc. the parent company of Muscle Maker Grill, Healthy Joe’s and MMG Burger Bar, a fast-casual concept known for serving “healthier for you” meals, announced the opening of its first ghost kitchen location in the Fairmount neighborhood of the city of Philadelphia. The company will open its second location in the Girard neighborhood.

Both the Fairmount and Girard locations are centrally located near a high density of both student/university eaters as well as a large pool of corporate workers who commonly order...

USDA Approves Maine to Accept SNAP Benefits Online

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced approval of a request from Maine to provide online purchasing of food to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) households. This approval will allow Maine to expedite the implementation of online purchasing with currently authorized SNAP online retailers with a target start date to be announced at a later time.

Maine’s SNAP participation is more than 144,000 individuals, more than 78,000 households, and totals $204 million annually in federal benefits. This announcement further demonstrates...

REPORTER: Wings Fly in the Face of Adversity

No year has tested Americans love for chicken wings like 2020. Rewind to March and the outlook for this line appeared bleak. The country and much of the world began to shut down one by one with the virus running rampant. March Madness had just been canceled, which many in the industry know is a historical boost to wings after the typical post-football season lull in February. Panic spread like wildfire as buyers who had been stocking up for the tournament were now caught flat footed. Prices began to degrade...

REPORTER: 3 Sprouting Plant Protein Brands to Watch in the New Year

2020 challenged cyclical norms across the global economy. An extended term of unwanted volatility and negative media coverage for conventional proteins became an opportunity for players in the plant protein market to thrive. Driving health and wellbeing into the focus for consumers around the globe, COVID-19 ignited a desire for increased options in food selection and further revealed preferences for sustainability and innovation. As countless entrepreneurs and investors clammer for a piece of the plant protein industry, three specialized brands have emerged with growth and...

Conagra Brands Issues Sustainability Accounting Standards Board Disclosure for Fiscal Year 2020

Conagra Brands announced the publication of its Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) metrics for fiscal year 2020. The disclosure details Conagra's ongoing focus on environmental excellence, strong governance, and safe operations. This marks the first time that Conagra has reported to the SASB framework according to the Standard for the Processed Foods industry as defined by SASB's Sustainable Industry Classification System®️ (SICS®️).

SASB is an independent, standards-setting organization dedicated to...

USDA, HHS Release Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025

Nutrition in America took a major step forward with the publication of Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025. Jointly published by the U.S. Departments of Agriculture (USDA) and Health and Human Services (HHS) every five years, the guidelines provide science-based recommendations designed to foster healthy dietary patterns for Americans of all ages – from birth through older adults. Importantly, this edition expands the guidance, for the first time including recommended healthy dietary patterns for infants and toddlers.

“At USDA and HHS, we work to serve the American people – to help every American thrive and live healthier lives through access to healthy foods and...

Eat Just To have Its Lab-Grown Meat Served At a Restaurant in Singapore

Eat Beyond Global Holdings Inc., an investment issuer focused on the global plant-based and alternative food sector, is announcing that its portfolio company, San Francisco-based Eat Just Inc., is the world's first company to have its lab-grown meat served in a restaurant.

Eat Just is a food tech company that produces meat and egg substitutes, and recently became the first company approved to sell its lab-grown chicken product, GOOD Meat Cultured Chicken, in Singapore. Singapore is the first government to...

Industry Veteran, Robert Corazza, Passes Away

Industry veteran, Robert Corazza, passed away on the night of Christmas Eve. Corazza was the President of The Fancy Foods Inc., and was described as a beloved patriarch in a company statement. Fancy Foods acknowledged that Corazza had a "big heart" for which he will always be remembered.

Corazza dedicated over five decades to the food industry and building Fancy Foods, while always advocating success, fairness, and continued advancement of the industry. Bob was not only a highly regarded veteran of the protein business, but he was also...

Urner Barry's Reporter Winter 2021 Issue Released; Read It Online For Free Now

A brand new issue of Urner Barry's Reporter is out! Volume 16, Number 1 is our first issue of 2021 and focuses on how the coronavirus pandemic is changing the way we work, shop and dine. This issue of the magazine features an interview with John Hott, the new CEO of Prestage Foods; a look at how restaurants like Taco Bell, Burger King and McDonald's are changing their layouts; and a break down of the future of grocery shopping with Amazon's new Amazon Fresh stores...

HMSHost Partners with National Restaurant Association to Underscore Safety Ahead of Travel Rebound

Today, the National Restaurant Association and its ServSafe division announced that HMSHost has signed on as a participant of the ServSafe Dining Commitment program aimed at bolstering the restaurant and foodservice industry’s recovery.

When consumers see the ServSafe Dining Commitment logo, they can rest assured that the restaurant has declared its dedication to training staff in safe food handling and establishing new guidelines for safe dining. Since the pandemic began, HMSHost has been abiding by the National Restaurant Association COVID-19 Safe Operating Guidance, FDA Best Practices for Restaurants, the HMSHost Growth Plan and comprehensive COVID-19 Manager’s Guide to Associate Safety & Wellness, and the laws and guidelines of federal, state and local municipalities...

Save A Lot Announces Sale of 51 Stores to Fresh Encounter

Save A Lot, one of the largest discount grocery chains in the U.S., today announced the latest update to its wholesale model transition with the sale of its 51 company-operated stores in the Tampa, Florida market to Fresh Encounter, a current Save A Lot Retail Partner licensee. Fresh Encounter will continue to operate the stores under the Save A Lot banner.

Today’s announcement builds on the successful completion of a comprehensive recapitalization of the business and significant deleveraging of the Company’s balance sheet in early 2020...

Conagra Brands Issues Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) Disclosure for FY 2020

Conagra Brands (NYSE: CAG) today announced the publication of its Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) metrics for fiscal year 2020. The disclosure details Conagra's ongoing focus on environmental excellence, strong governance, and safe operations. This marks the first time that Conagra has reported to the SASB framework according to the Standard for the Processed Foods industry as defined by SASB's Sustainable Industry Classification System®️ (SICS®️).

SASB is an independent, standards-setting organization dedicated to improving the effectiveness and comparability of corporate disclosure on material environmental, social and governance factors. SASB's approach to standard-setting uses a process that is evidence-based and market-informed...

REPORTER: Chicago Gets Creative to Help Restaurant Industry

This article was originally featured in the Winter 2021 Edition of Urner Barry's Reporter magazine.

The restaurant industry has encountered its share of adversity during the COVID-19 pandemic. From lockdowns to dine-in restrictions, the industry has had to roll with the ever-changing landscape. Many restaurants have survived thus far by pivoting away from their standard way of business in favor of al fresco dining. Conventional patios, sidewalks, parking lots and even streets have been re-imagined for today’s dining customer. Outdoor dining has been an attractive way for...

REPORTER: Protein Industry Facing Logistical Hiccups During the Pandemic

This article was originally featured in the Winter 2021 Edition of Urner Barry's Reporter magazine.

Add logistics to the laundry list of problems the coronavirus pandemic has thrown at the protein industry.

Throughout the pandemic, the protein industry faced multiple hiccups from a logistics standpoint. Labor has been an
issue at essentially every link in the supply chain. Domestically, meat plants have dealt with outbreaks. Meanwhile overseas, labor shortages at ports have stalled shipments and, in some cases, led to product heading back stateside...

REPORTER: A Food Trend Forecast for 2021

Predicting what foods will be popular in the upcoming year is no easy task given the uncertainty surrounding
consumers due to the pandemic. The food industry particularly has become more flexible than ever this
past year, and people are eager to get back to normal. But how will COVID-19 concerns and restrictions impact food
trends in 2021?

Despite all the unknowns that exist, Technomic’s outlook for the industry remains optimistic. Optimizing the menu,
directly addressing consumer needs and concerns, investing in technology to streamline transactions, and continuing to... 

REPORTER: Are “Dark Stores” the Future of Grocery Shopping?

Grocery stores closed to the public? That may be the future as more consumers look to get their food sent right to their doorsteps.

The surge in online grocery shopping has led several top retailers to create “dark stores,” which may look like grocery stores on the outside, but are solely in operation to fulfill online and pickup orders.

Throughout the pandemic many retailers opened up dark stores to keep up with online orders, generally as a
temporary solution to consumers looking to remain at home over coronavirus fears...

ANALYSIS: Turkey Cold Storage: A November to Remember

With November in the rear-view mirror, the time has finally come for turkey market participants to peer into the freezer and assess...

USDA Announces Dr. Carrie Castille as New NIFA Director

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that President Trump has named Dr. Carrie Castille as the new, six year term director of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture. Dr. Castille will start her new role on Monday, January 4, 2021.

“Dr. Castille is a trusted leader in economic development and public policy and has more than 20 years’ experience in the agricultural sector. Her passion for agricultural research, teaching, and...

Hormel Foods and Acclaimed Chefs Reveal Top Food Trends for 2021

Goodbye, 2020, and hello 2021! Hormel Foods Corporation, a global branded food company, is helping culinary enthusiasts around the world welcome 2021 with an exciting round-up of food trends to expect in the new year.

"It's no surprise that comfort food, sourdough bread and whipped coffee had big moments this past year, as people hunkered down and spent more time at home than ever before," said Heather Vossler, director of innovation and insights at Hormel Foods. "What's interesting is that as we all eagerly look ahead to the fresh start of a new year, we're seeing...

COVID-19 Case Rates for Meat and Poultry Workers More than 8 Times Lower than General Population

New analysis of independent data for the full month of November show that reported new COVID-19 infection rates amongst meat and poultry workers were more than 8 times lower than rates in the general population.

According to data from the Food and Environment Reporting Network (data), the meat and poultry sector was reported to have an average of 5.57 new cases per 100,000 workers per day in November. Infection rates amongst meat and poultry workers have declined steeply in the last six months, while...

Megan Britt to Lead Investor Relations for Tyson Foods

Tyson Foods, Inc. has named Megan Britt as the company’s new Vice President of Investor Relations.

Britt will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of investor relations, including shareholder communications, financial media relations and internet and intranet investor content. She begins her new role on January 4 and will report to Chief Financial Officer Stewart Glendinning.

Britt has almost 15 years of experience in roles in finance, including...

Get to Know Players in the Plant Protein Market: Planterra Foods

One of the fasted growing plant protein brands in the industry has achieved a remarkable 6% market share in a brisk 13-week period. Colorado based Planterra Foods, a subsidiary of Brazilian food giant JBS, has taken the plant-based market by storm with its OZO brand product line of burgers, ground, sausages, and meatballs.

Prior to its debut, OZO had an interesting start as a whiteboard drawing during a design brainstorming session. During the session, a team member at Planterra Foods first drew a globe representing the earth. Another team member added a second circle representative of...

The Consumer Confidence Index Declined in December

The Conference Board Consumer Confidence Index declined in December, after decreasing in November. The Index now stands at 88.6 (1985=100), down from 92.9 in November. The Present Situation Index – based on consumers’ assessment of current business and labor market conditions – decreased sharply from 105.9 to 90.3. However, the Expectations Index – based on consumers’ short-term outlook for income, business, and labor market conditions – increased from 84.3 in November to 87.5 this month.

The monthly Consumer Confidence Survey, based on a probability-design random sample, is conducted for The Conference Board by Nielsen, a leading global provider of information and analytics around...

Mercato Hires Jean-Michel Boujon as Chief Marketing Officer

Mercato, the online grocery eCommerce platform for independently owned grocery and specialty food stores, announced that it has hired Jean-Michel Boujon to be its Chief Marketing Officer. Boujon will direct all efforts associated with Mercato's brand, user acquisition, and lifecycle marketing. In addition, he will seek to advance the trend of consumers choosing to source their groceries from independent, locally-owned retailers.

"I am thrilled to announce that Jean-Michel has joined Mercato and to have him apply his talents to our company at such an important moment of our growth phase," said Bobby Brannigan, founder and CEO of Mercato. "He has a proven ability to...

The Catering Sector in France Adapts and Absorbs the Shock from COVID-19 Lockdowns

According to the latest data from The NPD Group, the share of “take-out” visits in France has doubled in catering, comprising 35% of total visits between March and October 2020, versus 17% over the same time period last year.

Restaurant owners have been able to adapt in order to develop their offerings toward take-out. They have reviewed the composition of the menus, developed the product mix, worked on the packaging and found new ways of communicating with...