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...

PathProven from Performance Food Group Providing First-Ever DNA Trace Back System from Farm to Plate in North America

Nearly 93 percent of all consumers are more likely to be loyal to a brand when it commits to full transparency, according to a 2017 Label Insights study from the Food Marketing Institute. The survey also revealed 74 percent of consumers would switch from the brands they usually buy to ones that provide more in-depth product information beyond the physical packaging. In Europe, the fresh meat industry has been moving toward this goal for twenty years. In the U.S., Performance Food Group Company (PFG) has been working with European technology innovator, IdentiGEN, for 10 years to align supply chains, building the first complete DNA Trace Back System to the farm. PFG has connected the information loop to provide greater accountability, improve sustainability, ensure quality, and...

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 ...

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 ...

Kroger Introduces Don Lee Farms Plant-Based Burger into Markets

Don Lee Farms is announcing the introduction of its trailblazing Organic Plant-Based Burger in nearly 2,000 Kroger® markets. The burgers will be sold in the meat section at Kroger®, Ralphs®, Dillons®, King Soopers®, Fry's®, QFC® and Fred Meyer®.

Donald Goodman, President, Don Lee Farms, said: “Working with Kroger® has been a priority for us in our pursuit to expand to where our customers want us to be. With the addition of Kroger®, we are bringing the fastest growing burger of its kind to nearly 2,000 locations in ...

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 ...

CHART: Industry Expectations for Weekly Hog Slaughter

The Urner Barry hog slaughter poll for the week ending 4/20/19 resulted in an average industry participant response of 2,408,000 head...

CHART: Industry Expectations for Weekly Cattle Slaughter

CDC Suspects Ground Beef is Source of Latest E. coli Outbreak

As of Friday, April 12, 2019, 109 people infected with the outbreak strain of E. coli O103 have been reported from six states. The CDC is reporting the 109 illnesses that the PulseNet laboratory network has confirmed are part of this outbreak. States are now investigating additional illnesses that might be a part of this outbreak.

Illnesses began on dates from March 2, 2019, to March 6, 2019. Ill people range in age from less than 1 year to 83 years, with a median age of 18. Of those infected, 53 percent are female. Out of 81 people with information available, 17, or 21 percent, have been hospitalized. No deaths and no cases of hemolytic uremic syndrome have been reported at this time. Illnesses that occurred after ...

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 ...

Denver Processing LLC Recalls Raw Pork and Beef Products Produced without Benefit of Inspection

Denver Processing LLC, a Denver, Colo. establishment, is recalling approximately 13,865 pounds of raw pork and beef products that were produced without the benefit of federal inspection and outside inspection hours, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The raw pork and beef items were produced on April 9, 2019. The following products are subject to recall ...

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 ...

$20 Million JBS Global Food Innovation Center Opens on Colorado State University Campus

The JBS Global Food Innovation Center In Honor of Gary & Kay Smith officially opened on the Colorado State University campus Tuesday, April 9, when JBS USA CEO Andre Nogueira cut the ribbon on the $20 million state-of-the-art facility.

In March 2017, JBS USA entered into a strategic, long-term partnership with CSU that included a $12.5 million investment toward construction of the building and educational programming for JBS USA and Pilgrim’s team members.

“We’re so pleased to be here today to help celebrate the opening of this center,” Nogueira said at the grand opening ceremony. “Our mission at JBS is to be the best, and the mission of this facility is to advance best practices in ...

Quaker Steak & Lube Unveils New Limited-Time Offers and Beverage Menu Perfect for Patio Season

Quaker Steak & Lube, one of the nation's leading family casual-dining restaurant chains with franchise opportunities available, has rolled out a new limited time offer menu, featuring food and beverages that provide guests with fresh, new flavors that build upon the fan-favorite classics for which Quaker Steak is known. At the same time, Quaker Steak & Lube has revamped its all-day beverage menu focusing on quality spirits and trending drink categories.

Just in time for patio season, Quaker Steak's limited-time menu features five new flavor-stacked steakburgers. The line-up starts with a Baja Burger, topped with fresh and spicy south-of-the-border flavors. With continued international flair, the Reuben Burger — piled high with...

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 ...

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 ...

China Reports Latest African Swine Fever Outbreak, in Far West

China on Friday said it had confirmed a new outbreak of African swine fever, in the far western region of Xinjiang, as the highly contagious disease spreads through the world’s largest hog herd.

The outbreak in Xinjiang’s Shule county has killed 92 animals on two farms with a total of 583 pigs, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs said in a statement on its website.

China has reported about 120 cases of ...

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 ...

Pork Producers Seek Trade, Animal Disease Prevention, and Labor Solutions 

The National Pork Producers Council today wrapped up its Spring Legislative Action Conference. More than 100 pork producers from across the United States gathered in Washington this week to meet with their representatives in Congress to discuss solutions for trade, animal disease preparedness and agriculture’s labor shortage.

“Lifting metal tariffs on Mexico and restoring zero-tariff access for U.S. pork in our largest export market is our number one priority,” said David Herring, a pork producer from Lillington, North Carolina and president of the National Pork Producers Council. “Restricted access to Mexico has placed a severe financial strain on our farmers for more than a year. We asked our representatives to ...

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 ...

Pork Checkoff Acknowledges “Tough Decision” to Cancel World Pork Expo

The National Pork Board today offered a statement of support to the National Pork Producers Council as it took the extremely rare step to cancel the 2019 World Pork Expo scheduled June 5-7, 2019, in Des Moines.

“We completely understand that to cancel World Pork Expo is a tough decision that no one wants to make,” said Steve Rommereim, president of the National Pork Board and a pig farmer from Alcester, South Dakota. “But when it comes to the ongoing spread of African swine fever in Asia and Europe, caution must come first. We stand by our pig-farming partners in doing anything we can to stem the spread of this disease.”

The Pork Checkoff has been helping to inform producers’ response to African swine fever since ...

Yoakum Packing Co. Recalls Venison Sausage Products

Yoakum Packing Co., a Yoakum, Texas establishment, is recalling approximately 12,388 pounds of smoked venison sausage that contains pork products that were not represented on the label, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The fully cooked smoked venison sausage containing beef, pork and other nonmeat products items were produced from May 3, 2017 through March 22, 2019. The following products are subject to recall ...

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 ...

Dickey’s Guests can Earn Rewards Enjoying Slow-Smoked Barbecue

Dallas, TX (Restaurant News Release) Guests can now earn more rewards for enjoying Dickey’s authentic, Texas-style barbecue when they download the Dickey’s App and enroll in the enhanced loyalty program. Dickey’s loyalty program, Big Yellow Cup Club Rewards, is a point-based system allowing guests to earn free barbecue for being loyal Dickey’s fans.

“The Dickey’s App and our loyalty program were developed in-house to offer rewards fit for barbecue lovers across the nation,” says Laura Rea Dickey, CEO of Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. “It is designed to reward our guests for making purchases at Dickey’s locations nationwide, sharing their experiences with us and ...

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 ...

NPPC Cancels 2019 World Pork Expo as Precaution

The National Pork Producers Council's board of directors today announced its decision to cancel World Pork Expo 2019 out of an abundance of caution as African swine fever (ASF) continues to spread in China and other parts of Asia. World Pork Expo, held each June at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines, hosts approximately 20,000 visitors over three days, including individuals and exhibitors from ASF-positive regions. African swine fever affects only pigs and presents no human health or food safety risks. There is currently no vaccine to treat the swine disease.

"While an evaluation by veterinarians and other third-party experts concluded negligible risk associated with holding the event, we have decided to exercise extreme caution ...

Central Valley Meat Holding Company to Acquire Harris Farms’ Beef Operations

Harris Farms, Inc. (“Harris Farms”) Owner John Harris and Central Valley Meat Company, Inc. President and CEO Brian Coelho announced today that Central Valley Meat Holding Company will acquire Harris Ranch Beef Holding Company (“Harris Ranch Beef”), including its wholly owned subsidiaries, Harris Feeding Company and Harris Ranch Beef Company. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

“We have known and respected John Harris and Harris Ranch Beef for decades, and I am pleased to have this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to continue the business’ family-owned legacy and pursue its tremendous potential for growth here in the Central Valley,” said Mr. Coelho. “While Central Valley Meat Company and Harris Ranch Beef will continue to ...

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 ...

Verde Strengthens Market Leadership with Appointment of Two Meat Industry Veterans

Verde Farms, the leading U.S. provider of 100% grass-fed, 100% free-range, organic beef has added Marc Broccoli, Vice President of Operations, and Matthew Landis, Vice President of Sales to its leadership team.

At grocery, more than half of shoppers (54%) want to see their stores carry more grass-fed beef, as well as products free from antibiotics and hormones (52%).* This interest is directly reflected in year-over-year sales growth across the grass-fed category.* As Verde continues to lead the industry with its 100% grass-fed, 100% free-range, Never Ever, and organic products, the addition of these two strategic hires will help Verde drive further innovation and accelerate growth in ...

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 ...

JBS Plainwell, Inc. Recalls Ground Beef Products

JBS Plainwell, Inc., a Plainwell, Mich. establishment, is recalling approximately 43,292 pounds of ground beef products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically, pieces of hard plastic, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The ground beef loaf products were produced on March 20, 2019. The following products are subject to recall ...

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 ...

OSI Group Acquires Rose Packing Company, Inc.

OSI Group is pleased to announce the acquisition of Rose Packing Company, Inc., a well-established, premier U.S. producer of pork products for leading foodservice and retail customers.

A fifth generation, family-owned and operated leader in the meat industry, Rose is headquartered in Barrington, Illinois, and operates a Chicago production facility with more than 700 employees.

“This transaction brings together two long-time leaders in the food industry, and we are excited to have Rose join the OSI Group,” said Kevin Scott, Senior Executive Vice President, OSI North America. “Strategically, the Rose acquisition complements our existing business and directly supports our growth strategy by providing ...

CHART: Industry Expectations for Weekly Cattle Slaughter

CHART: Industry Expectations for Weekly Hog Slaughter

The Urner Barry hog slaughter poll for the week ending 4/13/19 resulted in an average industry participant response of 2,425,000 head...

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’s FSIS Condemns The Washington Post for False Reporting on a Critical Public Health Issue

The Washington Post says that democracy dies in darkness. If that’s the case, then The Washington Post’s story about the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is a solar eclipse.

FSIS is made up of 9,000 civil servants with the noblest of missions – to protect the American food supply. The safety of every meat, poultry, and egg product in the United States is ensured by FSIS inspection personnel, each and every day.

It’s a responsibility and mission so important that every FSIS employee takes an Oath of Office. If only The Washington Post was held to the same standard ...

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 ...

J&J Snack Foods Handhelds Corp. Recalls Stuffed Sandwich Products 

J & J Snack Foods Handhelds Corp., a Holly Ridge, N.C. establishment, is recalling approximately 56,578 pounds of stuffed sandwich products that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically semi-transparent plastic, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The stuffed sandwiches were produced on February 19 and February 20, 2019. The following products are subject to recall ...

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...

Sonic Brings the Bacon with the New BBLT

As the year goes on, 2019 is proving to be the year of the bacon battles. After McDonald's introduced the first nationwide bacon bash called "Bacon Hour" back in January, Wendy's created its own limited time offer to celebrate the American favorite. Wendy's offer included a free baconator and $0 delivery through DoorDash with a $10 purchase during a short time in Janury through February. Now, quick service restaurants like Sonic are creating their own take on consumer's love for bacon.

Sonic has added a twist to an iconic favorite to create the BBLT, a sandwich with so much bacon, there is ...

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 ...

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 ...

Applegate to Bring an All-Star Lineup of Ballpark Fare to Fans this Summer

Applegate, the nation’s leading natural and organic meat brand, and Minor League Baseball™ (MiLB™) have announced a homerun partnership that will bring cleaner options of classic ballpark favorites to stadiums across the country this summer. As the first-ever “Official Natural and Organic Meat of Minor League Baseball,” Applegate will be putting in some of its power hitters and serving up Better Flippin’ Meat, including THE CLEANER WIENER™ – APPLEGATE NATURALS® Beef Hot Dog and THE GREAT ORGANIC BLEND BURGER™ BEEF BURGER, one of the brand’s newest innovations at MiLB ballparks this season.

When the Minor League Baseball season kicks off with Opening Night on April 4th, a stellar line up of APPLEGATE® brand clean eats will be available in concessions at select ballparks across the country. Throughout the season, Applegate also will ...

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 ...

Meet Chuck Knows Beef: Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. Launches All-Knowing Virtual Beef Assistant

Beef goes virtual as the iconic Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. brand brings the knowledge of a rancher, the expertise of a chef, and the humor of a dad into the kitchen with the official launch of Chuck Knows Beef, a new beef virtual assistant. Powered by Google Artificial Intelligence and developed in partnership with VMLY&R, a leading digital marketing agency, Chuck is the new virtual go-to expert on all things beef. Chuck can be easily accessed at ChuckKnowsBeef.com or by simply enabling Chuck Knows Beef with Amazon Alexa or Google Home Assistant devices.

Funded by beef farmers and ranchers and designed to be a go-to consumer resource for beef knowledge and recipe inspiration, Chuck provides instant access to recipes, cuts and nutrition information and cooking tips– plus a whole lot more. Consumers can ask Chuck questions like ...

AdvancePierre Foods, Inc. Recalls Frozen Beef Patties

AdvancePierre Foods, Inc., an Enid, Okla. establishment, is recalling approximately 20,373 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) beef patties that may be contaminated with extraneous materials, specifically soft purple plastic, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The frozen RTE flame broiled beef patties were produced on Nov. 30, 2018. The following products are subject to recall ...

Smithfield Foods Brands Company’s Foodservice Business as “Smithfield Culinary”

Smithfield Foods, Inc. today announced the introduction of Smithfield Culinary, a new branding of the company’s foodservice portfolio. Smithfield Culinary – historically recognized as Smithfield Farmland – leverages the corporation’s position as the world’s largest pork processor and industry leader in sustainability, and highlights the involvement and leadership that it has within the culinary community.

Throughout the last several years, Smithfield has experienced significant growth of the company’s foodservice business, prompting the decision to create a dedicated branding that represents all of the company’s culinary-focused initiatives. From establishing chef advisory boards and forming product innovation labs, to partnering with leading culinary schools, Smithfield Culinary has evolved from simply selling products to positioning culinary arts as a key cornerstone of its business model.

“Our company – a leader in pork, value-added protein specialties, and now culinary arts – is driven by those who have a passion for great food blended with insights 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 ...

CHART: Industry Expectations for Weekly Cattle Slaughter

CHART: Industry Expectations for Weekly Hog Slaughter

The Urner Barry hog slaughter poll for the week ending 4/6/19 resulted in an average industry participant response of 2,495,000 head...

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 ...

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 ...